Tuning in HD channels until my cable cards arrive?

[Jim_C]

I just set up my TiVo HD. While I wait for Comcast to come and install the cable card(s), is there any way for me to tune in unencrypted HD channels?

When the coax was running directly into the TV, I could tune NBC SD as 7, NBC HD as 7-1.

Is it possible for me to watch OTA (via cable) HD until I get my cable cards?

[Creech]

I'm a comcast subscriber and I wasn't able to. You could set up an HD antennae though. http://www.amazon.com/Philips-PHDTV1-Digital-HDTV-UHF-Antenna/dp/B0007XDI54 has a good rep.

[Jim_C]

Thanks. Currently I only subscribe to "Standard Cable."

In order to get the local channels, it appears that this level of service (plus cable cards) is enough?

To take advantage of other offerings, I'd need a digital plan and/or premium channels?

I'm in New England.

[rturrentine]

If you can get the local HD (which you should) with the coax connected directly to your TV, then you should be able to do the same with the Tivo HD.

I don't have Comcast but this is how it works on my cable (Knology) and my Tivo HD. I'm still waiting for my cable cards too.

[azitnay]

I just set up my TiVo HD. While I wait for Comcast to come and install the cable card(s), is there any way for me to tune in unencrypted HD channels?

When the coax was running directly into the TV, I could tune NBC SD as 7, NBC HD as 7-1.

Is it possible for me to watch OTA (via cable) HD until I get my cable cards?

Do a channel scan so the TiVo finds any unencrypted QAM channels you may have... Then, you can search through them to attempt to find your HD locals.

The TiVo probably won't map your NBC HD to virtual channel 7-1 like your TV does, but it should be available somewhere as a QAM channel (possibly as a crazy channel like 132-46).

Drew