MPEG-4 Stream from Xfinity/Comcast

[JavaWiz]

I just received a letter from xfinity indicating they will be switching to MPEG-4 format for their cablecards next month in my area. I've checked the SiliconDust site, and it appears my HDHR will support that stream.

As part of our HD Enhanced Program, we are upgrading the way we deliver HD channels in your area. The new format delivers HD channels using MPEG-4 technology that delivers crystal-clear HD signals more efficiently. For you to enjoy the benefits, it's important that your equipment is compatible with the MPEG-4 format. This network upgrade only affects HD channels and will begin on or about 11.17/2015.

Is this going to be a problem for NextPVR?

[Graham]

Is this going to be a problem for NextPVR?

Nope. MP4 and H.264 are essentially the same and, for example, HD broadcasts in the UK have been in H.264 for years and have recorded without incident.

You will need a video decoder that plays MP4 but most (or all) of the usual suspects will play MP4.

[mvallevand]

I just received a letter from xfinity indicating they will be switching to MPEG-4 format for their cablecards next month in my area. I've checked the SiliconDust site, and it appears my HDHR will support that stream.

Is this going to be a problem for NextPVR?

I assume the mux will still be mpeg-ts and they will just use h264 video. otherwise there could be problems. They probably will keep ac3 audio for compatibility.

Martin

[JavaWiz]

Thanks guys, sounds like this should work. Every time Comcast makes a change it seems to cost me, last time, OTA QAM disappeared and I had to buy a HDHR (however, I like having 3 extra tuners now ).

[BrettB]

I believe that the h.264 files are typically smaller (about half the size?) of the mpeg-2 files. So, you'll probably actually get a cost savings in disk space. :-)

[sub]

Thanks guys, sounds like this should work. Every time Comcast makes a change it seems to cost me, last time, OTA QAM disappeared and I had to buy a HDHR (however, I like having 3 extra tuners now ).

NextPVR can handle H.264 and MPEG2 channels just fine. There may need to be some minor tweaks when these channels go live for you, because there is some assumptions about North American channels being MPEG2. Let us know when these channels start.

[volfin]

I know this thread is old, but for context i'd figure i'd post to it. I got the letter today about the MPEG4 transition for Comcast. Here in the SF/Bay area it's starting August 2nd, 2016, according to the letter. TIVO has a site listing what regions it's starting in:

https://support.tivo.com/articles/Featur...ct-Markets

FYI