Comcast QAM San Jose Channel Shifting

[ga_mueller]

OK, I realize that there is probably no solution to this.... but pretty much every two weeks Comcast changes the channel mapping. So instead of KPIX, I get some local Hispanic broadcast. Or, I get KPIX-LivWell (some crappy infomercial channel).

Called Comcast, they recommended I get a "cable box"... duh.

Is there any automapping QAM routine that could remap channels at some given time interval?

[nightwalker]

I hate to tell you this but every time Comcast starts this routine they have been getting ready to start cutting QAM in the clear channels. It your conversion goes like every other area I've seen by the time they are done there won't be any QAM clear channels beyond a couple of locals. At some point they'll all but force you into getting the cable box.

[ga_mueller]

Everything has already been cut, except the locals in HD, for quite some time. My guess is that this is some sort of network optimization they run at fixed intervals. Really pi**ing me off. But then, what service do they guarantee for clear QAM customers?

[toboR]

ga_mueller,

I feel your pain. Same deal here. I finally agreed to get the digital settop boxes ($8.99/mo/box) and I have to admit I'm getting lot's more channels. However, I had to spring for an HD-PVR to continue using GBPVR. Now I'm struggling with IR blaster/firewire channel changer.

But the upside is... no more digital channel mapping!

Sometimes you just have to embrace the dark side...

tobor

[TonyXL]

FiOS in Northern Virginia does this as well, at seemingly random intervals.

I imagine I will buy either the Ceton or HDHomeRun CableCard tuner later this year, which will eliminate this issue and give me access to all channels, but I'll probably have to switch to Windows 7 MC *tear*.

[whurlston]

I'm planning on getting the Silicondust tuner and programming a GBPVR<->MC bridge so that recordings can be scheduled from GBPVR and all unprotected recordings will be able to be played from GBPVR.

[pcostanza]

I'm planning on getting the Silicondust tuner and programming a GBPVR<->MC bridge so that recordings can be scheduled from GBPVR and all unprotected recordings will be able to be played from GBPVR.

I like the sound of that. I'm kind of thick but if you need any help testing it, let me know. Unless Silicon takes forever to come out with their tuners, I plan on getting one. Hopefully, they beat Ceton to the punch but that's looking doubtful.

[whurlston]

You're already at the top of my list Paul. I'm probably going to need your prior OCUR experience.

[ga_mueller]

So it sounds like everyone has given up on clear QAM... anyone want to buy some slightly used 950Q's??

[pcostanza]

Cox long ago took away all but local QAM channels. They've not moved things around much but call them and ask about QAM and you get the 'we don't support it' routine. They do only what they have to. One of the local channels added a second SD channel and it took Cox 4 months of excuses before it was 'QAM'd'. (Not that it has anything good to watch on it). Their job is to get you to rent a box but it is a business so I guess acting like one is not surprising.