Ready to make the S3 jump but SDV is holding me back

[snowjay]

I've been reading these forums for quite some time and have gathered and learned lots but I just recently subscribed due to my potential upcoming purchase.

I'm currently a Cablevision subscriber using an SA 8300HD. I never had any problems or issues with it and it has served me fine when I was doing the occasional recording (maybe 1-2 a week). But lately I've really ramped up what I record and its scheduling/guide really has some limitations so I'm considering getting an S3.

I've oogled the S3 since it was released but the $800 tag shyed me away. Now with them being ~$600 and a tax refund coming I think I'm ready to make the jump. I'll probably keep the 8300HD and move it to the bedroom so I can watch time shifted late night tv there as I always miss the beginning while I'm out walking my dog.

My biggest concern is switched digital video. I've read here that some people have lost many channels when their cable co moved stations to SDV despite reports that it was only to be new programming going to SDV.

How heavily is this weighing in on peoples minds? Should I even worry about it, I mean Tivo must be planning something, no? I was thinking of purchasing my S3 from Costco so I could always return the box if things really got ugly, but I'm hoping to avoid that hassle by asking questions now.

[TostitoBandito]

I got around that problem by transferring lifetime to my box. If SDV comes to my area and I lose (or don't get) HD channels because of it, I can just sell it on ebay for probably close to what I paid for it (or more). Also understand that you have probably at least a year before SDV makes it to most areas. If you can get FIOS in your area, that would be a good thing to look into.

[classicsat]

There is nothing short term TiVo can do about SDV. Practically, they have to see what becomes of 2-way so they can make a next-gen Series 3 that has 2-way, or see what add-ons to the existing Series 3 could be implemented to add a back channel.

[GoHokies!]

My biggest concern is switched digital video. I've read here that some people have lost many channels when their cable co moved stations to SDV despite reports that it was only to be new programming going to SDV.

Those folks that have lost channels are an extremely small, but (understandably) vocal minority.

I wouldn't let it bother me, especially since you're on Cablevision - the only real companies that seem to have made a lot of noise about it are TW and Comcast (iirc).

Like you said, get the box from Costco and if things get ugly, you have an out. Until then you'll have a great DVR to use.

[snowjay]

Those folks that have lost channels are an extremely small, but (understandably) vocal minority.

Aren't they always. ;)


I wouldn't let it bother me, especially since you're on Cablevision - the only real companies that seem to have made a lot of noise about it are TW and Comcast (iirc).

Like you said, get the box from Costco and if things get ugly, you have an out. Until then you'll have a great DVR to use.

I do know that all our ethnic channels are on switched digital but I couldn't even tell you what channel range they are in so it's of no concern to me. We did get two new HD channels last week and they are in the clear so maybe CV is trying to keep everyone happy. From what I saw on my CV yahoo group there was a rough start with getting cards installed in the Tivos with techs not being trained etc, but it seems like they have been doing a pretty decent job with it now. With FIOS rolling out in many of the CV areas they are probably trying not to give people an easy reason to switch.

Unfortunately I don't think FIOS will be an option for me at least at my current residence should I run into trouble. I live in a townhouse condo community and I've yet to see any Verizon trucks running underground fiber here (all utilities are under ground) even though you can clearly see Verizon fiber on the poles in other parts of town. I'd imagine they would have to get approval from the condo board to start digging things up, etc...

[ah30k]

Why do we need yet another thread about SDV? Aren't folks tired of discussing this? Nothing has changed since the billion previous posts have been made.

[hornblowercat]

Why do we need yet another thread about SDV? Aren't folks tired of discussing this? Nothing has changed since the billion previous posts have been made.


+1 :up:

To the OP. I have stated in all of these threads (well at least the one's since I became a TCF member) that I researched the SDV situation, was well aware of it and considering MY area and seeing what happend in other areas where it is going full blown that the SA 8300 was such a pos I would purchase the S3.

You're right. If you use the SA 8300 for a couple of recordings a week it seems to work fine. But give it a full 4 shows a night 7 days a weeks and I had nothing but problems.

In my opinion. Get the S3. Read my signature. And have a good evening. :)

[MichaelK]

Those folks that have lost channels are an extremely small, but (understandably) vocal minority.

I wouldn't let it bother me, especially since you're on Cablevision - the only real companies that seem to have made a lot of noise about it are TW and Comcast (iirc).
....



FYI-

I've read that cablevision is deploying SDV right now.

They are using it for foreign language programming to start.

[MichaelK]

my opinion- HURRY up and buy it tomorrow.

The sooner you get it the more time you have to get your money's worth out of it before SDV might come along and make a problem.

[chandler1818]

i'm in the same position as the OP- seriously considering it but concerned about SDV. anyone know if RCN (montgomery county, md) has any plans to go to SDV?

[CrispyCritter]

i'm in the same position as the OP- seriously considering it but concerned about SDV. anyone know if RCN (montgomery county, md) has any plans to go to SDV?I would be amazed. RCN doesn't have the resources to trailblaze, and it requires a massive new investment; the RCN plant here is not all that old as far as I know (I have Comcast).

[MitchW]

+1 :up:

To the OP. I have stated in all of these threads (well at least the one's since I became a TCF member) that I researched the SDV situation, was well aware of it and considering MY area and seeing what happend in other areas where it is going full blown that the SA 8300 was such a pos I would purchase the S3.

You're right. If you use the SA 8300 for a couple of recordings a week it seems to work fine. But give it a full 4 shows a night 7 days a weeks and I had nothing but problems.

In my opinion. Get the S3. Read my signature. And have a good evening. :)

I have two SA8300HD's recording hundreds of programs plus I can watch Video on Demand and PPV. They are great and the charge is only $ 11 per month for each. I have confined my S2 to my Crawl Space waiting for the S4 to transfer that Lifetime Sub. I also like the PIP TV picture while I search for programs to record.

[hornblowercat]

I have two SA8300HD's recording hundreds of programs plus I can watch Video on Demand and PPV. They are great and the charge is only $ 11 per month for each. I have confined my S2 to my Crawl Space waiting for the S4 to transfer that Lifetime Sub. I also like the PIP TV picture while I search for programs to record.

I think it's a pos. YMMV.

[snowjay]

I have two SA8300HD's recording hundreds of programs plus I can watch Video on Demand and PPV. They are great and the charge is only $ 11 per month for each. I have confined my S2 to my Crawl Space waiting for the S4 to transfer that Lifetime Sub. I also like the PIP TV picture while I search for programs to record.


I like the PIP also, mainly because I have to spend so much time searching for programs. ;) Lately I've just been going to the Titan TV website to search for what I want and then go directly to it on the 8300. The other thing I don't like is having to scroll through all my recored programs since only 5 are displayed on screen and there is no way to group them by title. The box has always performed flawlessly for me but the software certainly has it's limitations.

I don't think I'll miss the PIP too much because it looks like with the Tivo I can just search for my programs on the web and schedule them from there while leaving the TV up full screen.

It's a great world we live in... everyone has choices to suit their needs. :)

[snowjay]

my opinion- HURRY up and buy it tomorrow.


:D

I'm going to call my local Costco tomorrow to see if they have them in the store if not I'll order one online.

[GoHokies!]

FYI-

I've read that cablevision is deploying SDV right now.

They are using it for foreign language programming to start.
I hadn't read that anywhere, that's good to know. Any geographic area in particular?

The only other that comes to mind are TW Austin (and North Carolina?). I know that it's late and I'm missing somewhere. For all the noise that Comcast has made about it, I can't recall reading about anywhere that it's actually deployed. Either way, I agree with your following point. ;)

And good on you Mich, you may have the only working 8300 in the world! ;)

[JimPa]

If your cable TV watch is mostly made up of stations that are available from OTA-HD, then you limit your downside risk by knowing that you'll still be able to record those shows.

[dt_dc]

I hadn't read that anywhere, that's good to know. Any geographic area in particular?All their NY area systems ... 4 million homes .. largest SDV deployment to date (in number of homes passed, not in number of channels ... I think so far it's just nine international channels).

[davecramer74]

Why do we need yet another thread about SDV? Aren't folks tired of discussing this? Nothing has changed since the billion previous posts have been made.

Het nitwit, not everyone in the world knows what a forum is k? They get on yahoo or google, they click on a f'n thread and for them to reply, it requires them to register. Got it? Peeps on here need to knock it off with there stupid f'n reply's, sheesh. You act like everyone whores the forums all day....Understand, not everyone knows how to use forums. Tired of u idiots bitching at people when they dont know any better. They get directed here, dont even see the q/a section till after the fact. Get a life and for once answer some questions instead of pointing out that they arent very good at the internet.

/vent off


for the original poster...

sounds like you want tivo. SDV is the route cable is going, no doubt. The S3 doesnt support it. Until you see directv deliver on their promise, IPTV and FIOS enter your area, i wouldnt expect it to happen for a bit. Its 599 at costco now, for a toy, 599 for a couple years use is not a bad deal. I upgrade my computer about that often and spend a little more. For a home entertainment box, id say why not go for it if your a tivo finatic. You'll get your year or 2 use out of it and can send it on to the bedroom after.

With that said, comcast is going to be adding tivo software to their boxes "someday" and they are releasing a "massmarket" tivo at a lower price "someday".

If u miss your tivo, want a tivo, go buy it. The worst thing that can happen is you can go sell it to someone who hasnt been switched over to SDV in a year and get 500 bones out of it at least.

[hornblowercat]

Het nitwit, not everyone in the world knows what a forum is k? They get on yahoo or google, they click on a f'n thread and for them to reply, it requires them to register. Got it? Peeps on here need to knock it off with there stupid f'n reply's, sheesh. You act like everyone whores the forums all day....Understand, not everyone knows how to use forums. Tired of u idiots bitching at people when they dont know any better. They get directed here, dont even see the q/a section till after the fact. Get a life and for once answer some questions instead of pointing out that they arent very good at the internet.

/vent off

.

Wow. Vanilla Ice is here! How about talking like a grown up, your vent sounds like it was written by a 13 year old. :rolleyes:

[GoHokies!]

Het nitwit, not everyone in the world knows what a forum is k? They get on yahoo or google, they click on a f'n thread and for them to reply, it requires them to register. Got it? Peeps on here need to knock it off with there stupid f'n reply's, sheesh. You act like everyone whores the forums all day....Understand, not everyone knows how to use forums. Tired of u idiots bitching at people when they dont know any better. They get directed here, dont even see the q/a section till after the fact. Get a life and for once answer some questions instead of pointing out that they arent very good at the internet.

/vent off
Maybe said new posters should take the required 30 seconds to read the forum rules and guidelines that they have to click through to make their account that clearly states that you should check and see if a thread exists before starting a new thread!

The only thing worse than dozens of duplicate threads is threadcrapers like you that come in and complain about the complainers, engage in personal attacks and generally lower the level of discourse from "intelligent conversation" to "rants with barely disguised profanity".

dt_dc, thanks for the info about SDV - it's good to have the facts (as opposed to the FUD) when talking about something like this. It'll be interesting to see how the different cable companies roll this out in their respective areas.

[snowjay]

Jeez, I haven't even been here a day and I've already caused a ruckus.

It's all well and good to yell at me and tell me to read the FAQ or use the seach function, but unless you are a member here the search is not available. I'm not going to registere for a board I'm not going to use but once I was fairly confident I would purchase a Tivo I registered and by that time I'm ready to ask questions, not waste another few days searching for my answers. And the FAQ in this forum just mentions "swtiched digital video" and that the S3 currently doesnt support it, in the reamaining 14 pages it is not mentioned at all.

If you search for "SDV" there are 107 threads just in this forum that have mention of it which may or may not be relevant to my questions. It's not like there is an "SDV FAQ" or "SDV everything you need to know thread" that would clearly lead me in the right direction. (Maybe there should be, it could explain what it is and then all the cable systems and their current deployments.) So do I waste more time reading through all those threads or just ask the question again and deal with snide remarks, but get my answer quicker anyway. If the answer is so easily found, point me to those threads and move on and lets not be childish about it.

I've been a member of many forums for many years and I know how to search and read thank you very much. I don't like it either when the same questions get asked over and over again, but if they are I'll answer, point the people to the correct spot in the FAQ or other related posts, perhaps tell them the search terms they should use and move on with my day. It serves no purpose to berate someone unless you want to create an unhelpful hostile environment.

[ah30k]

Het nitwit, not everyone in the world knows what a forum is k? They get on yahoo or google, they click on a f'n thread and for them to reply, it requires them to register. Got it? Peeps on here need to knock it off with there stupid f'n reply's, sheesh. You act like everyone whores the forums all day....Understand, not everyone knows how to use forums. Tired of u idiots bitching at people when they dont know any better. They get directed here, dont even see the q/a section till after the fact. Get a life and for once answer some questions instead of pointing out that they arent very good at the internet.
F' you Dave! I am tired of the same old crap being re-hashed here every day. If you think that it is OK to join a forum and post a non-sense thread about how SDV is making you re-think buying while it has been discussed ad-nausium a million times then YOU are the nit-wit.

[ah30k]

If you search for "SDV" there are 107 threads just in this forum that have mention of it which may or may not be relevant to my questions. Make that 108 now! I wonder how we get so many threads on the topic?

[snowjay]

Make that 108 now! I wonder how we get so many threads on the topic?

No, it's 107 including this one. ;)

Hey, you always have the option of not opening the thread at all.

[ah30k]

No, it's 107 including this one. ;)

Hey, you always have the option of not opening the thread at all.Snojay, sorry to come back so strong, but Dave got me a little pissed off.

I like to keep current, but the same thing seems to get re-hashed over and over again.

[CosmoGeek]

Hey, you always have the option of not opening the thread at all.

+1

You'ld think they were forced to read this thread which was obviously about something they weren't interested in. Pretty much every aspect of the S3 has been beat to death, so if you can't tolerate any redundancy, I'd suggest finding another forum.

[dt_dc]

Why do we need yet another thread about SDV? Aren't folks tired of discussing this? Nothing has changed since the billion previous posts have been made.I am tired of the same old crap being re-hashed here every day.Just an observation ... but ...

If someone's that tired of the same old stuff being re-hashed ...

Perhaps a few links (on the thread or in a PM to the OP) to some of those "billion previous posts" or threads you find most relavant / helpful would be more productive. A billion posts are rather difficult for a new user to search / sort through. And a rant still doesn't provide anyone with any answers meaning ... the same old stuff is likely to be re-hashed again on the thread.

Just an observation.

[ah30k]

OK, I put in SDV into the search and here are some of the thread titles that came up on the very first page...

svd--tivo s3 truly obsolete? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=344608

Now I'm scared to get a Series 3.... http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=334389

SDV legal analysis: Calling all attorneys!!! http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=341813

On to the second page...

Has SDV affected your S3 enthusiasm? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=340116

Just what the heck is SDV? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=341019

Comcast Sets Switched-Video Rollout http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=338196

Tivo S3 and SDV Questions http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=339752

Thinking about going from S1 DTV to S3 Comcast - caveats? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=339762

Contacting the FCC about SDV http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=339733

[ah30k]

Well, no Series 3 for me http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=313081

Bad news for S3 with Comcast http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=339056

S3 and expensive paperweight? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=321415

Comcast moving to SDV for HD (bad new for cable cards) http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=338199

I am thinking about getting a S3, but... http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=337047

[hornblowercat]

Perhaps a few links (on the thread or in a PM to the OP) to some of those "billion previous posts" or threads you find most relavant / helpful would be more productive. A billion posts are rather difficult for a new user to search / sort through. And a rant still doesn't provide anyone with any answers meaning ... the same old stuff is likely to be re-hashed again on the thread.

Just an observation.


I don't know how many times I've seen a thread started and somebody has said "I did a search" and I do a search myself and fine many links relative to the subject. Then I post the links along with a comment about what I searched for and the links.

Does it help? Nope, the thread just goes on anyway. So even when you post these "helpful links" nobody seems to pay attention.

[ah30k]

Thinking about getting a S3... any disadvantages? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=336856

Comcast and SDV http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=335315

Is switched video going to kill Series 3 with Time Warner cable? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=335457

Thinking about getting a Series3 but I have questions... http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=328861

[hornblowercat]

+1

You'ld think they were forced to read this thread which was obviously about something they weren't interested in. Pretty much every aspect of the S3 has been beat to death, so if you can't tolerate any redundancy, I'd suggest finding another forum.

And as GoHokies! said take 30 seconds to read the rules so we don't have 107 threads to search through to read the information. These rules were applied long before you or I showed up so I suggest we follow the rules and not make suggestions different from what the forum rules say.

[ah30k]

Switched Digital question http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=320559

Switched Digital Video (SDV) an S3 killer? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=314230

Can someone explain switched digital systems? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=316506

Switched Digital and S3 http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=316660

Anyone starting to get my point??

[CosmoGeek]

...I suggest we follow the rules and not make suggestions different from what the forum rules say.

Yes dad. :rolleyes:

[Gregor]

Does anyone have a list of what channels have been seen on SDV?

[TexasAg]

Anyone starting to get my point??

You're as subtle as a sledgehammer. :)

I do agree with you and GoHokies, though. It isn't hard to find lots of info here about SDV if you bother spending 2 minutes doing a search and actually looking at some of the results.

[hornblowercat]

Yes dad. :rolleyes:


And it's nice that you pay attention to your elders. :) Even if it is sarcastic.

[dt_dc]

Anyone starting to get my point??That there's alot of threads / posts ...

Yes, that was part of my point. Perhaps you missed the other part:Perhaps a few links (on the thread or in a PM to the OP) to some of those "billion previous posts" or threads you find most relavant / helpful would be more productive.

[ah30k]

Yes, that was part of my point. Perhaps you missed the other part: (about pasting results to be more helpful)Yes, rather than make a small post about this being redundant and not necessary (hardly the brutal post the some here think I made, go back and look at my post that sent Dave off on a wild rampage) I could have done the search myself then posted the results. It takes more time to cut/paste the results into a post than doing the search and I don't see how that should be the norm. The only reason I did it this time was to prove my point that this has been beaten to death.

[hddude55]

I have two SA8300HD's recording hundreds of programs plus I can watch Video on Demand and PPV. They are great and the charge is only $ 11 per month for each. I have confined my S2 to my Crawl Space waiting for the S4 to transfer that Lifetime Sub. I also like the PIP TV picture while I search for programs to record. What a joke. You must work for a cable company. Anyone who has used any generation of TIVO and also has used an SA8300HD knows that there is no comparison.

[hddude55]

Switched Digital question http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=320559

Switched Digital Video (SDV) an S3 killer? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=314230

Can someone explain switched digital systems? http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=316506

Switched Digital and S3 http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=316660

Anyone starting to get my point??

I'm not sure if I do get your point. Help me out. I guess you own or moderate this forum? Or possibly you just feel powerless in your life and want to exert a little power here?

[snowjay]

Anyone starting to get my point??

I read some of those threads and I skipped over some of them because after reading the first post the main questions wasn't SDV so I didn't feel like digging through all the pages to find the reference.

I used to be on a Dodge Ram board and new people would always ask what the biggest tires they could put on their truck was. Wanna see annoying? The mods specifically made a FAQ forum, created a Tires thread (along with a thread for every other common question) and when someone asked a question you pointed them there. Bingo. Done.

Now if someone could craft up a well written paragraph or two about SDV and it's concerns (or non concerns) and be able to list providers that are using it and their channel listings that would be the most beneficial thing yet. Put a link to that thread in the FAQ at the top of this forum and then just shove people there.

Not being able to search if you aren't a member is a biggie too, I think. I was poking around for about a week before I registered. If I could of searched in that time maybe I wouldn't of asked my questions.

If we didn't rehash things, what would we have to talk about? ;) I mean thats the nature of an online forum.

I'm so glad to of made some many friends here so quickly. :D

[ah30k]

I'm not sure if I do get your point. Help me out. I guess you own or moderate this forum? Or possibly you just feel powerless in your life and want to exert a little power here?Here is my point for the slower of the group.

This topic has been addressed many many times. In fact, the title of this very thread is almost verbatum from some already listed. Some here seem to think that finding this info is terribly difficult. I entered SDV into the search tool and posted the results that clearly show my point without even having to dig into the individual results. You can tell must by looking at the title.

I do not own or moderate this forum and never claimed to. I simply posted my thoughts that this was yet another thread rehashing the same old thing.

[dt_dc]

Yes, rather than make a small post about this being redundant and not necessary (hardly the brutal post the some here think I made, go back and look at my post that sent Dave off on a wild rampage) I could have done the search myself then posted the results. It takes more time to cut/paste the results into a post than doing the search and I don't see how that should be the norm. The only reason I did it this time was to prove my point that this has been beaten to death.Ah, you did miss my point (or I mis-stated it).

My point wan't to directly post all the links of a search in order to be helpfull ... that's inane.

My point was to help find the most relavant and helpful links / posts / threads.

If all those SDV threads and posts are all equally helpfull and usefull and don't contain redundant information or misinformation or nice summarizations or whatever ... then the subject really hasn't been beaten to death and deserves re-examination.

OTOH, if many of those threads and posts are largely redundant and the topic has been nicely summarized to filter through the chaff and misinformation then yes ... the subject probably has been beaten to death ... but as such it's rather difficult for someone who hasn't followed the conversations to sift and sort through it all.

Anyway, that was my point.

[CosmoGeek]

Does anyone have a list of what channels have been seen on SDV?

Here was one link posted for Rochester NY TW:

http://www.timewarnercable.com/roch.../cablecard.html

There was a better listed posted but I couldn't find it. I did a lot of searching too! That list was much more extensive and contained several channels that I watch.

[ah30k]

My point was to help find the most relavant and helpful links / posts / threads.

If all those SDV threads and posts are all equally helpfull and usefull and don't contain redundant information or misinformation or nice summarizations or whatever ... then the subject really hasn't been beaten to death and deserves re-examination.

OTOH, if many of those threads and posts are largely redundant and the topic has been nicely summarized to filter through the chaff and misinformation then yes ... the subject probably has been beaten to death ... but as such it's rather difficult for someone who hasn't followed the conversations to sift and sort through it all.

Anyway, that was my point.I postulate that all of those threads contain largely the same exact information and are thus redundant with each other as well as this thread. If you want, I can roll the dice and choose one for my answer.

I don't know how I got sucked down this rat hole. Where is hookbill when you need him? :)

[itsmeitsmeitsme]

Snowjay, welcome to the forum. This is a great place with many good people to talk about many things. I don't understand why some people get so upset about redundant posts(as they call them). I guess I don't know why they even open a thread, if they feel all has been discussed on the subject already. Hope you find the answers you are looking for. Sorry for the ole coots that seem to be so grumpy about the whole thing. :)

[hornblowercat]

Sorry for the ole coots that seem to be so grumpy about the whole thing. :)


Please don't take the liberty of apologizing for me or anyone else about complaining about redundant threads. 107 of them. You don't think that is enough. Get real, it's time somebody said enoughs enough.

[astrohip]

I have two SA8300HD's recording hundreds of programs plus I can watch Video on Demand and PPV. They are great and the charge is only $ 11 per month for each. I have confined my S2 to my Crawl Space waiting for the S4 to transfer that Lifetime Sub. I also like the PIP TV picture while I search for programs to record.
Mitch, perhaps we have different versions of the SA8300HD, as I have one of those, along with an S3 & S2. The SA unit is the most painful DVR I have ever used. Search is a joke, and using Season Passes is only slightly less painful than beating one's head against a wall. Let's say "The Tudors" is coming up, and you want to find it to record. It is almost impossible to do. But on a TiVo, just search by title. Then click Season Pass. Takes about 20 seconds start to finish. Conflict Management? Sure, if you count simply not recording your show as CM. :eek: I could go on & on.

YMMV. Different software versions on SA units can lead to dramatically different user experiences.

[MScottC]

For those who seem pissed off that the OP asked a question that was already asked... On this thread alone you've wasted more time bickering over the issue than had you just avoided it... How much more time have you wasted over all on all responses of this ilk on this board and every other board you view???

[snowjay]

Snowjay, welcome to the forum. This is a great place with many good people to talk about many things. I don't understand why some people get so upset about redundant posts(as they call them). I guess I don't know why they even open a thread, if they feel all has been discussed on the subject already. Hope you find the answers you are looking for. Sorry for the ole coots that seem to be so grumpy about the whole thing. :)

Thank you very much. It's great to be here. :)

Nothing like getting a good spanking with your first post though. :rolleyes:

You'd think I signed up and posted a message like this:

"hi i wanna get a tivo. whats a cable card? does it get HD? does tivo to go work? when is MRV gonna be ready? does it have two tuners? do i still need a cable box? etc..."

Then I could see all the commotion. But I knew some of those answers and researched many others (that were easier to find without a search function). I even went as far as reading the user manual and familiarizing myself with screen shots of the menus so I understood what I could change and not change without asking those questions.

But no, I ask one little question, basically how SDV has weighed in on peoples mind and potentially swayed them and get chastized for it. Maybe I should of researched a bit more but jeez whats the point of having a forum if all you can do is search and not ask questions. BFD if it's been covered before, don't read the freaking thread if you don't want to be helpful. From where I'm sitting there are many more even worse redundant topics I could of asked but I did research those.

I now know how I should of introduced myself to the forum:
"hi my name is jay and I'm thinking of getting a S3. I have no questions becuase I researched everything and know it all. I'll just sit here in the corner and watch the tumbleweeds go by."

[GoHokies!]

Wow, looks like I was one of the few people that actually had work to do this morning! ;) :D

I think that we can all agree that 107 SDV threads is a problem. It's a pain to read them over and over again (yes, I know that you don't have to read every thread, but if you don't you'll miss out on great discussions like this one) and it makes it near impossible to new people like snowjay (welcome to the forums!) to find the information that we need.

At some of the other forums I frequent, the moderators make heavy use of FAQ's, stickied threads and that stay at the top of the thread list and the like to avoid the same thread over and over again. As a community we did a really good job of this when the S3 first came out by making the "XX Cable company CC install thread" to be a one stop resource for customers of a particular company to get the latest info. This scheme also seems to work really well over at AVSforum too, so maybe we just need to try to foster the same type thing over here. Of course that'll take a willingness to work together on all of our parts, and the support and time of the forum moderators to move posts into the proper threads and delete threads that are redundant (or lock them with a link to the proper thread - locking threads is a great tool that could be very well utilized around here, I think).

Rather than continually snipe back and forth at each other and go in circles, how about we figure out a solution and run with it (along with answering any more questions that the OP has about SDV, of course).

[snowjay]

I just want to thank those who helped me in my decision and welcomed me aboard.

[JimPa]

Wow, looks like I was one of the few people that actually had work to do this morning! ;) :D

I think that we can all agree that 107 SDV threads is a problem. It's a pain to read them over and over again (yes, I know that you don't have to read every thread, but if you don't you'll miss out on great discussions like this one) and it makes it near impossible to new people like snowjay (welcome to the forums!) to find the information that we need.

At some of the other forums I frequent, the moderators make heavy use of FAQ's, stickied threads and that stay at the top of the thread list and the like to avoid the same thread over and over again. As a community we did a really good job of this when the S3 first came out by making the "XX Cable company CC install thread" to be a one stop resource for customers of a particular company to get the latest info. This scheme also seems to work really well over at AVSforum too, so maybe we just need to try to foster the same type thing over here. Of course that'll take a willingness to work together on all of our parts, and the support and time of the forum moderators to move posts into the proper threads and delete threads that are redundant (or lock them with a link to the proper thread - locking threads is a great tool that could be very well utilized around here, I think).

Rather than continually snipe back and forth at each other and go in circles, how about we figure out a solution and run with it (along with answering any more questions that the OP has about SDV, of course).

Best idea I've heard all day.

I think the problem is that some forums aren't regularly moderated. So there is no one to make stickys and so forth.

[itsmeitsmeitsme]

Wow, looks like I was one of the few people that actually had work to do this morning! ;) :D

Rather than continually snipe back and forth at each other and go in circles, how about we figure out a solution and run with it (along with answering any more questions that the OP has about SDV, of course).

Sounds like a good idea.

[Carlos_E]

I just want to thank those who helped me in my decision and welcomed me aboard.
Welcome to the board. I'm a newb and I asked my SDV questions 2 weeks ago. :p My tivo gets here tomorrow!! :up:

[snowjay]

Welcome to the board. I'm a newb and I asked my SDV questions 2 weeks ago. :p My tivo gets here tomorrow!! :up:

Thanks.

I just ordered mine! :)

[GoHokies!]

Thanks.

I just ordered mine! :)
Woohoo! Welcome to the Tivoloution!

I think that you will be pleased...

[Carlos_E]

Thanks.

I just ordered mine! :)
When is your delivery date? I can't believe how excited I am to have a new Tivo. LOL I got the cable 8300 DVR in December and it's been hell ever since. Missed shows, digital drop outs, shows appearing in the guide on the wrong day, you name it.

[snowjay]

Woohoo! Welcome to the Tivoloution!

I think that you will be pleased...

Thanks. I'm sure I will. Now I can't wait for it! :D


I went with Costco in the end. The TCS was appealing (although I can't access the site now) but Costco gives me a little piece of mind even though it cost me $45 more thanks to NY taxes. Now I'm just waiting for a delivery date so I can schedule a truck roll for the cable cards.

[CosmoGeek]

I think that we can all agree that 107 SDV threads is a problem.

Nope, sorry, I don't agree!

[CrispyCritter]

I think that we can all agree that 107 SDV threads is a problem. I disagree that it's a major problem, also. It's going to happen, and I've wasted a lot more time reading the meta-discussion than I will with the extra threads. My bet is there will be an SDV sticky eventually; but that's the proper response, rather than trying to "instruct" newcomers. They'll learn if they stick around. We should welcome newcomers, instead.

[hornblowercat]

Snowjay, good decision. Congratulations on your purchase and you were wise to go with Costco.

[hornblowercat]

Nope, sorry, I don't agree!

Well, I do agree with GoHokies! and I don't understand for the life of me why you don't. 107 threads. Geesh!

Anyway GoHokies! is always right. If you don't believe me ask him. :D

[GoHokies!]

I disagree that it's a major problem, also. It's going to happen, and I've wasted a lot more time reading the meta-discussion than I will with the extra threads. My bet is there will be an SDV sticky eventually; but that's the proper response, rather than trying to "instruct" newcomers. They'll learn if they stick around. We should welcome newcomers, instead.I didn't say that it was a major problem. Wouldn't it be nice if all of the SDV talk was actually contained in one thread (or perhaps a handful so that there could be a thread for each cable company) so that people that were interested in keeping up with it could just read one thread rather than read dozens of the same conversations over and over and over again? Wouldn't it be helpful for a newcomer to just have to read the "Comcast SDV info here" thread to find out where SDV was rolling out and how it was affecting S3 users?

Sounds like a winning idea to me.

I also don't see anything wrong with (gently) correcting the newcomers and helping them "fit in" by giving them the lowdown of how things operate here. I do agree that it can be done in the wrong (impolite) fashion that would tend to discourage new folks.

[GoHokies!]

Well, I do agree with GoHokies! and I don't understand for the life of me why you don't. 107 threads. Geesh!

Anyway GoHokies! is always right. If you don't believe me ask him. :D

Well, there was this one time that I thought that I was wrong, but I turned out to be right. :confused:

[snowjay]

GoHoakies, sounds like a good idea. I'd volunteer to start a Cablevison one or a "master" one but I don't want to get spanked again for starting yet another SDV thread. ;)

[CosmoGeek]

I don't understand for the life of me why you don't.

Because I am not as anal as you are. It really doesn't bother me at all. Most of the threads on this forum I never open. I read the thread title and decide if I'm interested. If not, I skip it. I certainly don't feel the need to try to control other people.

[davecramer74]

Because I am not as anal as you are. It really doesn't bother me at all. Most of the threads on this forum I never open. I read the thread title and decide if I'm interested. If not, I skip it. I certainly don't feel the need to try to control other people.

hehe u gotta understand these select few individuals (they know who they are) have nothing better to do than let you know that they think they know everything, their opinion is the only one that counts and everyone else is retarded. I just choose to ignore their posts unless they have something worthwhile to add to the conversation besides "your stupid". Which most of the time, they do add value. It just seems some days someone lights their fuze and they lose it. The mods usually give them a little "break" when they get out of hand, hehe.

I respect their opinions until they get rude. If you cant convey your thoughts on a chat board without being an *******, then i dont care to read it. :D

[GoHokies!]

Because I am not as anal as you are. It really doesn't bother me at all. Most of the threads on this forum I never open. I read the thread title and decide if I'm interested. If not, I skip it. I certainly don't feel the need to try to control other people.It isn't about being anal or controlling of other people. It has everything to do with making the information as easy to find for as many people as possible in an organized fashion as possible.

Snowjay, you've got a good sense of humor, you'll go far here. ;) I would start the Comcast thread, but I really don't have anything other to say than "They have announced it is coming, does anyone have it yet and what has your experience been?"

Maybe that's enough to start a thread, but I think that it would quickly die and be replaced with 107 "I don't get channel X, Y and Z on Comcast anymore!" threads when they actually do roll it out. :D

[hornblowercat]

I respect their opinions until they get rude. If you cant convey your thoughts on a chat board without being an *******, then i dont care to read it. :D

Really! And you never get rude, like that little rant you did a while back. If that wasn't rude I don't no what is.

And try writing like an adult. Use caps, spell out words and quit looking like a teenager and maybe you'll get a bit more respect.

[ah30k]

I respect their opinions until they get rude. If you cant convey your thoughts on a chat board without being an *******, then i dont care to read it. :D

Ok, Dave, let's compare posts and see who is rude...

Here is my post:
Why do we need yet another thread about SDV? Aren't folks tired of discussing this? Nothing has changed since the billion previous posts have been made.

And here is your reply/quote to my post...
Het nitwit, not everyone in the world knows what a forum is k? They get on yahoo or google, they click on a f'n thread and for them to reply, it requires them to register. Got it? Peeps on here need to knock it off with there stupid f'n reply's, sheesh. You act like everyone whores the forums all day....Understand, not everyone knows how to use forums. Tired of u idiots bitching at people when they dont know any better. They get directed here, dont even see the q/a section till after the fact. Get a life and for once answer some questions instead of pointing out that they arent very good at the internet.


Who is being rude here and being an a***?

edit - Yes, I know I should let it rest, but the Irish in me won't let Dave come through without a reply.

[GoHokies!]

Who is being rude here and being an a***?

I concur competely - he seems to think that it's a sport to come in here and bait people into responding and a game to see how many people he can get banned. I'm sure that Hookbill's really enjoying his "little break". :rolleyes:

How this subtle stepping right up to the line and threadcrapping every thread that Hookbill and I posted in either escapes notice from the moderators or is deemed acceptable is beyond me.

[hornblowercat]

I concur competely - he seems to think that it's a sport to come in here and bait people into responding and a game to see how many people he can get banned. I'm sure that Hookbill's really enjoying his "little break". :rolleyes:

How this subtle stepping right up to the line and threadcrapping every thread that Hookbill and I posted in either escapes notice from the moderators or is deemed acceptable is beyond me.


So that's what he is up to? I kind of wondered but it makes sense. He comes in, launches an attack and then disappears while everyone responds to his attack. Then he comes in with this pseudo, sympathetic post in an attempt to make him seem like he's such a good guy. Then when people lash out at him he reports it to the mods and gets them in trouble.

ah30K, good response. I should have gone back and posted his rant on my response, yours really brings it all together.

Guys, maybe we should just put davecramer on ignore so we don't have to look at his rants. That's probably the best solution and will keep us from arguing with him.

[snowjay]

Snowjay, you've got a good sense of humor, you'll go far here. ;)

I just can't get worked up over what people say to me in an online forum. Plus I have a thick skin and can give it just as well as I can take it. :cool:


Now I think it's time for my next post... Tivo To Go and Cable Labs - Lets get on the ball.

:p ;) :D

[GoHokies!]

Now I think it's time for my next post... Tivo To Go and Cable Labs - Lets get on the ball.

:p ;) :D
Gold star if you threaten a class-action suit.

[snowjay]

I was thinking more along the lines of a flaming bad of poop on their door step, but class-action might suffice. :)


Just ordered my wirless adapter!

My S3 has shipped but tracking data isn't available yet.