HDHomeRun and Comcast

[Scott R. Ehrlich]

On Wed, 28 May 2008, Tom Metro wrote:

> I recently acquired a used Silicondust HDHomeRun for use with MythTV, and am 
> doing a basic check out of its functionality with the config utility 
> Silicondust supplies for Windows and VLC.

I use Linux and a python script from 
http://www.nivex.net/programs/hdhomerun/

I also very much recommend you upgrade the firmware to the latest, though 
I _think_ Silicondust includes that ability in its setup program.

>
> Has anyone set up an HDHR for use with Comcast that gets their signal from 
> the Newton/Needham head end?

I'm in Somerville.   When I moved here around 2001 and had a cable modem 
installed, the tech ended up replacing the coax from the pole to 
higher-grade stuff.   The same grade was put in place where I have the 
hdhr now.   The signal is split a few times anyway, but the hdhr shows 
great strength and several choices.  I have either 8vsb or qam.

>
> Silicondust supplies 3 config utilities for Windows that seem to have 
> overlapping functionality. Something called "HDHomeRun Setup" runs 
> post-install. It finds the two tuners on the HDHR, I select "Digital Cable" 
> as the source, and "Custom" as the application, then go to the "Lineup" tab, 
> click the "Edit" button, and click "Scan" in the channel editor. It finds no 
> programs.
>
> Using the "HDHomeRun Config" application, it again finds the two tuners. 
> Following the directions on the Silicondust web site, I select "qam" for the 
> "Channel" and start a scan. It reports a signal strength from about 80% down 
> to 50%...dropping off as the numbers go up. But it finds nothing.
>
> A repeat scan using "qam-hrc" (I know my system uses HRC for analog signals) 
> finds channel 45, with 3 encrypted subchannels. It shows a signal strength of 
> 73% (in red), 74% signal quality, and 100% symbol quality. And channel 96, 
> also with 3 encrypted subchannels, and 93% signal quality. (Running VLC on 
> one of these channels shows the VLC toolbar, but no video. I assume that's 
> expected for an encrypted channel.)
>
> While scanning signal strength is all over the place, but typically below 
> 70%. I see the troubleshooting guide says to make sure that the "signal 
> strength is above 80% minimum (90% recommended)."
>
> My analog signal has degraded appreciably over the years, and I've added a 
> distribution amp to compensate (an amp purchased from Comcast, and thus 
> supposedly of adequate quality and specifications for digital cable). I had 
> assumed this was just Comcast letting the analog plant fall into disrepair as 
> they pushed customers to digital, but it could be the tap for my drop has 
> gone defective. I've scheduled a service visit.
>
> I'm curious to hear what signal levels other HDHR users typical see.
>

Signal levels for me seem fine.  I only subscribe to basic cable - well 
enhanced basic, so I can get NESN.   I use Ubuntu Hardy, and all digital 
pictures are exquisite.

I'm just saying the box should work fine, and you want to verify the 
latest firmware.  Also try the python script, and see if it makes any 
difference.

Scott

> -Tom
>
> -- 
> Tom Metro
> Venture Logic, Newton, MA, USA
> "Enterprise solutions through open source."
> Professional Profile: http://tmetro.venturelogic.com/
>
> -- 
> This message has been scanned for viruses and
> dangerous content by MailScanner, and is
> believed to be clean.
>
> _______________________________________________
> Discuss mailing list
> Discuss at blu.org
> http://lists.blu.org/mailman/listinfo/discuss
>

-- 
This message has been scanned for viruses and
dangerous content by MailScanner, and is
believed to be clean.