Milwaukee HDTV User Group

Breaking News => Latest News => Topic started by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Aug 03, 2010, 04:50:05 PM

Title: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Aug 03, 2010, 04:50:05 PM
Got a call from TWC. Navigator/box upgrade tonight between 1-5 am. Expected to be about 20 minutes. Sounds like we will be getting MDN 2.5.  My box is the SA-8300HD (no C.)

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Tuesday Aug 03, 2010, 10:08:16 PM
Yeah, I am all excited...:rof:

Just waiting for my boxes to freeze up, not work at all or worse, have the whole system crash like the last time when it went down and we lost most of our HD channels.:bang:

Maybe we'll get the other 5 HD channels they keep on notifying us of in their wonderful TWC local website, eh?:D
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Xizer on Tuesday Aug 03, 2010, 11:05:35 PM
Does TWC still not have HDNet or HDNet Movies? That's a deal breaker for me.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Aug 04, 2010, 03:13:16 AM
No change,

The box did go through an update process, but everything looks the same.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Aug 04, 2010, 06:00:19 AM
Update Has Come to My Box!

Some Cool features: (This is for MDN model boxes.  I have the SA-8300.)

1.) Show searches begin on selected area of guide or show watched.

2.) Listings are better organized.

3.) DVR Compensation: Adjusts the RR and FF compensation speed of the DVR.

4.) All Showings Prompt: For finding all listings of a future airing of a show.

That is what I have seen-so far.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Wednesday Aug 04, 2010, 07:29:36 AM
Thanks, Jack 1000, looks my 8300HD did not suffer any problems this morning.

-I will have to review what you discovered later tonight, these are minor upgrades, but anything is better than nothing, if it works as an enhancement.:D
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Aug 05, 2010, 02:58:16 PM
Ever since we had new cable lines put it, I was getting maybe three months without a reboot on Navigator MDN 2.4.6-19. As of today, maybe about eight hours apart, MDN 2.5.0-49 has rebooted twice. Has anyone else gotten a greater frequency of reboots with the new software?

Jack
Title: Navigator Update Coming For ODN (C) and Samsung Boxes
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Sep 21, 2010, 04:38:43 PM
TWC at the national level has begun rolling out a software update for the Navigator ODN (C) and Samsung boxes.  It is designed to fix speed and performance issues in browsing and searching:

Navigator ODN 4.0.24 is designed to be a software update to fix speed issues on the HDC boxes. However, the build is going out to all ODN boxes, so maybe the Samsungs will be even faster. I hope that ODN 4 will also fix the occasional HDMI "Mode Note Supported" and sometimes screen crawler shake when HDMI synchronization does not match, requiring a box reboot. Once these HDC speed issues and HDMI conflicts are resolved, I think we will start seeing more new features. But I think the bug fixes should be first priority.

Jack
Title: 2.5.0-49 Displayed all the time
Post by: flash on Tuesday Oct 26, 2010, 06:41:42 PM
At he bottom of my screen I have a blue box that displays 2.5.0-49 on the lower right corner.... then it jumps to the lower right corner.  This started before the Packer game on Sunday night and it is driving me crazy.

Any ideas????
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Mar 08, 2011, 10:52:51 PM
Possible Navigator Update Coming- I just looked at my statement now: It says:

On or after March 8th we will conduct a system upgrade that will bring you more features including Look Back. This upgrade will cause your system to reboot. Please do not attempt to use the converter at this time. After this occurs, please check your personal settings. Settings such as Parental Control will need to be reset. Tune to channel 411 or visit TWC for helpful tips and instructions.

The thing is, we already have Look Back on some stations, but this sure as hell sounds like something is coming. I will check back and post tomorrow if something changes.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Wednesday Mar 09, 2011, 01:05:26 PM
Good because channels 1005 and 1012 were awful last night..maybe that what was going on?
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Mar 09, 2011, 02:27:36 PM
Quote from: gparris;57105Good because channels 1005 and 1012 were awful last night..maybe that what was going on?

Thanks GP!

At least now I know that I am not the only one with that problem!  (You should also respond in my "TWC Please Investigate loss of picture on channels 1005 and 1012.") and report anything that changes for you in that thread.

No news of Navigator Updates in my area yet, but there was a Voicemail that they were working in the Northern areas of Wisconsin on I think they said TV, Phone, and Internet last night.

Check your TWC billing statements and see if there is a Guide Notice Update in the "Look Here" section.  That's where I got this information.  It sounds like they are talking about some new features for the boxes.  What I want most is faster-scrolling and Keyword Search!

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Saturday Mar 12, 2011, 03:41:16 PM
No update changes to report.  Sorry I can't be of more help!  If your box(es) get updated during the night, or whenever with a software download. (i.e digits counting up and/or down for about 20 minutes to 1 hour where the clock is) post in the thread.  Users should not use the converters or remotes during this time for best results.  Generally the updates happen between 1-5 am.  I also heard that they are done between Monday night going into Tuesday Morning and Thursday Night going into Friday morning, but please don't quote me on that! LOL!

The "On or After March 8" was just what my statement said.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Friday May 06, 2011, 12:41:16 PM
New York City just got a Navigator box update for the OCAP boxes.  The version is ODN 4.1.6 and based on approximate timing, we should be seeing this update in about a month.  This update will be applied to all of the C-Model boxes (SA/Cisco) and Samsungs.  New features based on early reports include:

Reports of no guide filtering on ODN 4.1, or expanded Favorite Channels List. (These features are only in MDN 3.0.)

I think we may be seeing potentially more guide filtering and search options for ODN in the next build. MDN 3.0 (aside from bug fixes) will be the last-update for legacy non-C and non-Samsung boxes. All guide enhancements and feature improvements will run on the newer OCAP (ODN) C-based Samsung/Cisco/Motorolla boxes from this point forward. The reason is because they don't make the legacy boxes anymore.

Which is ironic, because the legacy MDN boxes boxes at or above SA/Cisco 3000 for non-DVR or SA/Cisco above 8000 for DVR, although older, still seem to be faster and more responsive than the new SA/Cisco's running OCAP, The OCAP based Samsungs are pretty fast in most areas, but the 3270 reports of some HDMI issues. (Might have been fixed in ODN 4.1) and I have heard reports of some intermittent issues with VOD. However, the speed and reliability of the ODN platform is getting better with each release.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Friday May 06, 2011, 04:22:22 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;57331I think we may be seeing potentially more guide filtering and search options for ODN in the next build. MDN 3.0 (aside from bug fixes) will

If this is what I think it is, put it first on my list.  I am really sick of seeing something in the guide, selecting it, only to see it is a channel I am not subscribed to.  I want those channels I am not subscribed to out of the listings - frustrating me like it currently does is NOT going to get me to subscribe to something new.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Friday May 06, 2011, 07:01:45 PM
Quote from: ddeerrff;57334If this is what I think it is, put it first on my list.  I am really sick of seeing something in the guide, selecting it, only to see it is a channel I am not subscribed to.  I want those channels I am not subscribed to out of the listings - frustrating me like it currently does is NOT going to get me to subscribe to something new.

The Guide Filtering is in MDN 3.0.  But it doesn't "stick."  You can filter by HD channels, subscribed channels, Favorite Channels, OR PPV.  But the results are only during the search.  A source of mine who sits in on Navigator development meetings wanted the Guide Filter to be permanent, but was voted down.

He believes that TWC thinks if the guide filtering was permanent that people would never see channels to which they don't subscribe, and TWC doesn't want to do that.  They want people to see a show in the guide and order the channel that they don't get to see the show to get more money.  Filtering by Subscribed Channels only, would make unsubscribed channels forgettable to the customer.

However, we think that if there is a huge enough demand for a guide filter that can be made permanent with a change option if desired, TWC might do that type of filter in the future.  Maybe they will be gaging customer feedback on this feature in MDN 3.0 to evaluate what to do with filtering in the next ODN build.  I think we will see some additional features in each subsequent build.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Talos4 on Saturday May 07, 2011, 10:29:49 AM
QuoteHe believes that TWC thinks if the guide filtering was permanent that people would never see channels to which they don't subscribe, and TWC doesn't want to do that. They want people to see a show in the guide and order the channel that they don't get to see the show to get more money. Filtering by Subscribed Channels only, would make unsubscribed channels forgettable to the customer.

IF I wanted those channels I'd order them.

Instead I have to go through 100's of channels while guide surfing and end up missing what I might watch because it took a half hour ((exaggeration please don't write me)) to surf the guide and the show is either over or half over.  

Morons.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Saturday May 07, 2011, 03:01:09 PM
Exactly Talos4.  Half hour is not an exaggeration, particularly when you hit one of the OD channels and the box freezes up for 30 seconds while it is 'Loading data'.  

If I want a channel or channel group, I will order it.  Irritating your customers is not the way to make a sale.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Monday Jun 20, 2011, 09:55:33 AM
A software update should be coming within next month to August that will add some new features to the boxes and hopefully improve speed as well.

You can read about the new version here.  This upgrade will be applied to all TWC box terminals running the OCAP (ODN) Newer model boxes.  ODN boxes are any units that have a C in the model number (SA/Cisco) OR are a Samsung.  Here is the information on the next release.  It's ODN 4.5. (We are on ODN 4.0.24.)

http://www.engadget.com/photos/time-warner-cable-twcable-tv-and-florence-odn-update-details/#4232815

Jack

PS.  These release notes, will also include a new IPG for i-pad.  TWC TV for i-Pad 2.0.  As I understand it, a subscription to any TWC Digital Tier on a TWC STB will be required for the new i-pad program guide applet, which is supposed to be ready on June 28th.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jul 20, 2011, 05:03:43 AM
SA-8300HDC box just got updated to some new features.

Should include. (Have not tested everything.)

DVR Compensation: Control Amount of DVR Jump Back Time
Embedded Channel Banner
Auto HD Control in Settings

Let me know if you see any new features.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: klwillis45 on Wednesday Jul 20, 2011, 07:43:48 AM
My 8300HDC got hit with an update last night too.

They only thing I noticed in the few minutes I had it on was that the "enhanced TV" menu was shifted down to the info banner so it now matches my non-C box.
Title: DVR Box update this week
Post by: gparris on Wednesday Aug 10, 2011, 08:04:19 AM
My 8300HD got a update, the graphics are better, the layout makes more sense than before and I got 4x fast forward, including a more complete description of the info on screen after the recording is done with, something only the 8300HDC unit in the other room had before. While this was a rather subtle update to this box, it is a welcome one.:)
I didn't really notice anything on the 8300HDC to report, other than when you go to delete a programme or series of  because you watched in another room already, the process is slightly faster, now.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Aug 10, 2011, 03:01:48 PM
Quote from: gparris;57696My 8300HD got a update, the graphics are better, the layout makes more sense than before and I got 4x fast forward, including a more complete description of the info on screen after the recording is done with, something only the 8300HDC unit in the other room had before. While this was a rather subtle update to this box, it is a welcome one.:)
I didn't really notice anything on the 8300HDC to report, other than when you go to delete a program or series of  because you watched in another room already, the process is slightly faster, now.

Sup GP?

It sounds like you have the legacy box (No C, not a Samsung) Because those boxes are no longer being made, TWC will likely only be doing bug fixes for these models.

Did you get Guide Filtering in this update?  Press Guide twice and you can filter search results by Subscribed Channels, Favorite Channels, HD, and PPV.  The stupid thing is that it only works during the search.  TWC's twisted logic is they don't want you to permanently be able to show only subscribed channels for example.  They want you to see a package in the guide that you don't have and order it.  The legacy version of these boxes is MDN.  The newer version of the boxes (a C in the model number or a Samsung) is called ODN.

GP, you might have also gotten the return of Sort by Favorites and/or the return of the Favorite Channels List.  My source says that this was added back to MDN boxes. (Check Settings and Favorite Channels to see if there is something added.)

I don't have an MDN box anymore.  Still wish I did, because they are faster!

It looks like TWC is finishing up the updates for the legacy boxes.  It is believed that the next update for ODN may included the guide filtering and the favorite channels list expandability.

The ODN build (C-boxes and Samsungs) got 4x RR/FF and DVR Compensation added.  Guide Transparency is added and there might be expanded Bookmarks for Start Over and Look Back.

The next big update for ODN is going to be an Auto HD update setting that can be turned on or off.  When turned on, the guide will "auto tune" to any corresponding HD channel for both playback AND recording if an SD channel is selected!  When activated, it acts to stop uninformed people from recording SD content thinking it is HD, but also allows people to concern DVR drive space by turning it off if the source program is not HD, or for those times that creep up when the HD version of the channel does not come in due to SDV issues.

I want Keyword Search though!  DAMN IT!!!!!  It's ridiculous to fart around with that keyboard when all you get are title results.  This is great for movies, but little else, as Sports Games and teams are not often organized by show titles, making the keyboard useless in this regard.  I do think TWC cares about this feature, because we have seen it on Remote DVR Manager and also next month, (if it has  not been released already) an update will be provided for i-Guide that will include keyword description search,  I heard through the grapevine from higher ups that TWC is working to improve the search functionality of the boxes, so there is hope!  I hope!

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: uwgrad on Wednesday Aug 10, 2011, 03:09:59 PM
There's a big downside to the new MDN software though.  The live buffer is only about 20 minutes which is way too short.  

Also the "Normal" DVR compensation seems to go back quite a bit farther than it did before, and the "Less" is not enough.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Aug 10, 2011, 03:41:35 PM
Quote from: uwgrad;57698There's a big downside to the new MDN software though.  The live buffer is only about 20 minutes which is way too short.  

Also the "Normal" DVR compensation seems to go back quite a bit farther than it did before, and the "Less" is not enough.

UGHHH!!!!  A 20 minute buffer on the new MDN update!  That sucks!  I will have to inquire about this!  I only have an ODN box.  But I agree about the DVR Compensation at least from the standpoint of ODN as well.

Jack
Title: ODN Cable Boxes Software Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Saturday Apr 07, 2012, 02:19:58 PM
Got an automated call from TWC that the ODN models of the cable boxes. (C-models and Samsungs) will get a software update sometime Tuesday morning between 2-6am. (So it's like Monday night into Tuesday morning.)  You should not use the converter at this time, and there will be at least two reboots, (probably three.)

They say the process will take at least 20 minutes.  My experience shows that it could be about 20 mins to 45 minutes.  Just a heads up.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 04:34:59 AM
Hummm,

It updated on schedule, but no change in software version. Still on ODN 4.1.06. Prep for 5.0? A cable card fix?

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 04:52:58 AM
Hah, you stayed up to this hour just to watch your box update?

You really do love your Time Warner software.

I just want a HD interface. The current Navigator interface looks like something out of the early '90s.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 05:03:58 AM
Quote from: PONIES;58433Hah, you stayed up to this hour just to watch your box update?

You really do love your Time Warner software.

I just want a HD interface. The current Navigator interface looks like something out of the early '90s.

LOL!!!  I used to though! (stay up to watch!)  We have a poster at AVS that makes snacks and stuff and counts down with the box like it's New Years Eve!!! LOL!!!  He is waiting for new features!

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 05:09:54 AM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58434LOL!!!  I used to though! (stay up to watch!)  We have a poster at AVS that makes snacks and stuff and counts down with the box like it's New Years Eve!!! LOL!!!  He is waiting for new features!

Jack

Another update going through now.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 05:36:53 AM
Well, I'd like to comment on this update, but it would seem that it has broken my HDMI output. Multiple reboots and still no video output.

Way to go, Time Warner!
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 06:47:52 AM
Successfully updated to Navigator ODN 5.1.6

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 06:55:23 AM
Quote from: PONIES;58436Well, I'd like to comment on this update, but it would seem that it has broken my HDMI output. Multiple reboots and still no video output.

Way to go, Time Warner!

Ponies,

Try turning off the Cable Box and TV,  unplug the cable box, and disconnect your HDMI cable.  Wait for one minute.  Now plug the HDMI cable back in, and plug the cable box back in,  turn the cable box back on, allow cable box to reboot.  (In that order.)  When cable box has rebooted, turn the TV back on.  Is it working now?  On what box is this happening?

If the above does not work, check to see that your HDMI settings are correct on the box.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 08:25:12 AM
I got the update. Not noticing anything new.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 04:10:38 PM
Quote from: PONIES;58436Well, I'd like to comment on this update, but it would seem that it has broken my HDMI output. Multiple reboots and still no video output.

Way to go, Time Warner!

I think that TWC is doing the Navigator lab testing on modern HDTV's before releasing the updates. They may not have the smaller little portable HD sets on which to do the testing-so the update goes into the field. with HDMI problems on some sets that are smaller priced models and portables.

Maybe they need to invest in some less expensive sets to test the HDMI quality footprint across different TV models. IMO.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Tuesday Apr 10, 2012, 04:39:48 PM
I managed to fix it after some more HDMI cable plugging and unplugging and power cycling.

These boxes have always had HDCP handshaking issues. Glad to see they still haven't been resolved.
Title: Anybody having trouble recording with TWC DVR?
Post by: sschmalz on Sunday Apr 22, 2012, 11:38:44 AM
Is anyone else having trouble with scheduled recordings on their TWC DVRs lately?  My problems started back in March.  For some reason, my normally scheduled recordings of Dancing with the Stars and Castle on WISN were not being stored on the machine for some reason.  The red record inidator on the box lights up during the program, but once it's done, the recording is not in the listing.  The recording log shows the error "The set-top could not record this program" and no other reason or explanation.

A call to TWC resulted in a service call in which the tech ended up changing out all the equipment in my house (DVR, cable modem, and pre-amp).  He couldn't explain the recording troubles but suspected that it was a software glitch in the box.  He couldn't replace the SA-8300HDC that I had since the only unit he had left on the truck was a new 8400 series whole house DVR.  The tech warned that I should wait until the April 10th software push to resolve a couple of bugs in Navagator.  After discovering that that Cisco went cheap and designed the new units so that they could not output Dolby Digital 5.1 on the S/PDIF output and via HDMI simultaneously, I exhanged it for another 8300 at the local TVC store.  Now I'm discovering, that I am experiencing the same problems with scheduled recordings again!  I'm not certain, but it seems it always occurs when I set up recording programs back-to-back (i.e. one program immediately after another on the same channel).  Did TWC push a Navigator update in March that hosed things up?  For these recordings, I always make sure that the record options are set to begin and end at the scheduled times, not a minute before or after, so overlap can't be the problem.  I'm wondering if the new software has a DHCP bug or something.  I'd be interested in hearing from other folks if they are experiencing the same issues.

By the way...  How can I tell what version of software I'm running on the SA-8300HDC?
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Apr 22, 2012, 02:13:38 PM
Quote from: sschmalz;58469Is anyone else having trouble with scheduled recordings on their TWC DVRs lately?  My problems started back in March.  For some reason, my normally scheduled recordings of Dancing with the Stars and Castle on WISN were not being stored on the machine for some reason.  The red record inidator on the box lights up during the program, but once it's done, the recording is not in the listing.  The recording log shows the error "The set-top could not record this program" and no other reason or explanation.

A call to TWC resulted in a service call in which the tech ended up changing out all the equipment in my house (DVR, cable modem, and pre-amp).  He couldn't explain the recording troubles but suspected that it was a software glitch in the box.  He couldn't replace the SA-8300HDC that I had since the only unit he had left on the truck was a new 8400 series whole house DVR.  The tech warned that I should wait until the April 10th software push to resolve a couple of bugs in Navagator.  After discovering that that Cisco went cheap and designed the new units so that they could not output Dolby Digital 5.1 on the S/PDIF output and via HDMI simultaneously, I exhanged it for another 8300 at the local TVC store.  Now I'm discovering, that I am experiencing the same problems with scheduled recordings again!  I'm not certain, but it seems it always occurs when I set up recording programs back-to-back (i.e. one program immediately after another on the same channel).  Did TWC push a Navigator update in March that hosed things up?  For these recordings, I always make sure that the record options are set to begin and end at the scheduled times, not a minute before or after, so overlap can't be the problem.  I'm wondering if the new software has a DHCP bug or something.  I'd be interested in hearing from other folks if they are experiencing the same issues.

By the way...  How can I tell what version of software I'm running on the SA-8300HDC?

Greetings,

A software upgrade was pushed out to the ODN boxes on April 10th.  ODN boxes are the newer models either with a C in the model number or the Samsung.  The update fixed some inner bugs, changed some menu fonts, and a couple things for Caller ID on TV.  No new features.  The next release, possibly later this summer-fall will have some new features.

Never heard of the Cisco 8400HDC for Signature Home, there are three Signature Home/Multi Capable DVR's:

The Cisco 8742 (very new and rare)
The Cisco 8642
The Samsung 3072

Your problem is a flaw in Navigator's design where I have seen this happen with problems recording shows back to back.  The issue is that Navigator things the very start of the second show, conflicts with the show already in progress.

Therefore, if you have a show on 1005(CBS) from 7-8 set to record, and another show set from 8-9 on the same channel, the DVR will still be recording the first show at 8:00, when it should be starting the second show at 8:00.

*The work-around, (and this is so stupid that TWC can't fix this) is to "pad," meaning add extra time to the first show so that you have a stream of uninterrupted shows:  Here's how to do that:

You want to watch two separate hour shows back to back on CBS, each an hour long, for  a 7-9 time slot for TV watching:  To avoid a conflict: (using the example above:)

1.) Find Your Show Using the Time Grid or B Search Options
2.) Using the above example, Select "Record Show With Options"
3.) Select a Start Time AT LEAST 1 minute before the show begins.
4.) Select an End Time For Two Hours later.
5.) Save your changes.

Now, the time grid will still show only the first show highlighted.  But if you exit out of that, go to the DVR Show List. (Press List.) The first show will be listed, BUT it will show a two hour time slot.  Navigator thinks it's the same show, but you have really just added time to the first show with no reason for Navigator to stop the recording when the first show ends.

As for checking your software version it is ODN 5.1.06.  The latest release.  To find  your version:

1.) Press Quick Settings
2.) Go to Favorite Channels
3.) Inside the Favorite channels menu enter a high channel number, like 1990.
4.) Look in that high channel range for a channel that says Diags.  Make a note of the number. (Use Page +/- to Navigate.)
5.) Exit out of that screen, enter the Diags Channel number
6.) Wait about 30 seconds for the channel to load.
7.) An approximate 15-20 pages of technical information opens up.  Use the Page +/- button to find Software Version.  Each page will refresh with new data, so you will have to be patient.
8.) Page 6. (I think) will have your software version.
9.) Change channels to exit.  It is also recommended to select a second viewable channel, so that if a new person in the house presses "LAST" they don't go back to the Diags station and think their box is broken.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: sschmalz on Sunday Apr 22, 2012, 04:42:00 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58470Greetings,

A software upgrade was pushed out to the ODN boxes on April 10th.  ODN boxes are the newer models either with a C in the model number or the Samsung.  The update fixed some inner bugs, changed some menu fonts, and a couple things for Caller ID on TV.  No new features.  The next release, possibly later this summer-fall will have some new features.

Never heard of the Cisco 8400HDC for Signature Home, there are three Signature Home/Multi Capable DVR's:

The Cisco 8742 (very new and rare)
The Cisco 8642
The Samsung 3072

Your problem is a flaw in Navigator's design where I have seen this happen with problems recording shows back to back.  The issue is that Navigator things the very start of the second show, conflicts with the show already in progress.

Therefore, if you have a show on 1005(CBS) from 7-8 set to record, and another show set from 8-9 on the same channel, the DVR will still be recording the first show at 8:00, when it should be starting the second show at 8:00.

*The work-around, (and this is so stupid that TWC can't fix this) is to "pad, meaning add extra time to the first show so that you have a stream of uninterrupted conflicts:  Here's how to do that:

You want to watch to separate hour shows back to back on CBS, each an hour long, for  a 7-9 time slot for TV watching:  To avoid a conflict: (using the example above:

1.) Find Your Show Using the Time Grid or B Search Options
2.) Using the above example, Select "Record Show With Options"
3.) Select a Start Time AT LEAST 1 minute before the show begins.
4.) Select an End Time For Two Hours later.
5.) Save your changes.

Now, the time grid will still show only the first show highlighted.  But if you exit out of that, go to the DVR Show List. (Press List.) The first show will be listed, BUT it will show a two hour time slot.  Navigator thinks it's the same show, but you have really just added time to the first show with no reason for Navigator to stop the recording when the first show ends.

As for checking your software version it is ODN 5.1.06.  The latest release.  To find  your version:

1.) Press Quick Settings
2.) Go to Favorite Channels
3.) Inside the Favorite channels menu enter a high channel number, like 1990.
4.) Look in that high channel range for a channel that says Diags.  Make a note of the number.
5.) Exit out of that screen, enter the Diags Channel number
6.) Wait about 30 seconds for the channel to load.
7.) An approximate 15-20 pages of technical information opens up.  Use the Page +/- button to find Software Version.  Each page will refresh with new data, so you will have to be patient.
8.) Page 6. (I think) will have your software version.
9.) Change channels to exit.  It is also recommended to select a second viewable channel, so that if a new person in the house presses "LAST" they don't go back to the Diags station and think their box is broken.

Jack

Jack,

Thanks for the low-down.  Odd that it worked OK up until last month.  Regardless, I will try your work-around.

Sorry, I mistyped...  I meant Cisco 8600 series.  I believe it was an 8642.  I was not impressed with this model.

Thanks again!
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Rick_EE on Monday Apr 23, 2012, 09:08:26 AM
Thanks,

We are having the same problem.  Nice to know we are not crazy.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Friday May 18, 2012, 02:10:39 PM
Well,

This is news. Apparently I have JUMPED BACK from 5.1.06 to 5.1.04! Have never seen this before. Maybe they saw a serious bug in 5.1.06. (It might have been the issue on some of the boxes with the date not changing when day+/- is selected.) This bug did not affect me on the SA-8300HDC.

Wisconsin normally does not get incrimental updates, ODN 5.1.07 by all accounts is the newest version. It sounds like ODN 5.1.06 broke something.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday May 31, 2012, 08:30:17 AM
Box rebooted this morning, doesn't appear to be any changes.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: LoadStar on Thursday May 31, 2012, 08:24:10 PM
Quote from: grenier;58529Box rebooted this morning, doesn't appear to be any changes.

Looks like my tuning adapter rebooted as well, so I'm going to guess it was a backend change to the OCAP infrastructure.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday May 31, 2012, 09:35:11 PM
I heard that Navigator is being COMPLETLY redesigned as a new team has been brought in to fix bugs and make the system easier to use in terms of reliability, searching, and finding program information.   The new interface is doing very, very well in testing and has a slick new black design similar to the i-Pad.  If you are not familiar with i-Pad, think of Direct TV's new Black Guide.  The new software version will be ODN 5.2 (or higher.)  The new system will enable cloud based searches (even on the legacy boxes!)

At some point, the newer boxes, (Ciscos and Samsungs) the new guide will be expanded to a true 16x9 HD format.  The older C-boxes, SA's and MDN units can't do an HD guide, so for us, the new guide will be in SD.  

I have connections and have seen screen shots of the new guide.  ODN boxes will get it first. (C-Models and Samsungs)  MDN boxes, non-C, and not Samsungs will get it later.  Some main test sites, New York, and North Carolina will get it first.  We could see it sometime in the fall if testing goes well.

Jack
Title: CW 18 and MY 24 moving from Capitol Drive to Park Place
Post by: tvboy on Wednesday Jun 06, 2012, 09:59:10 AM
The Milwaukee ZND Committee approved unanimously to CW 18 and MY 24 plans to move to a 3 1/2 acre site at Park Place and Calumet Road behind the Hilton Gadren Inn Hotel on the far northwest side.  They are putting up a 150 foot relay tower to connect to the tower on Humboldt and the usual satellite dishes on the site.  Will most likely pass Common Council approval later this month.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Thursday Jun 21, 2012, 05:42:06 PM
Looks like MKE is getting the new Navigator next Tuesday night.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Thursday Jun 21, 2012, 07:06:15 PM
Interesting that Time Warner is continuing to roll out this law violating update to their subscribers.

From what I hear from customers in the first markets it's been rolled out in, it breaks the Firewire output on the Samsung boxes.

This is in violation (http://www.1394ta.org/consumers/FCC_complaint.html) of FCC regulation, specifically CS Docket 97-80 section 47 C.F.R. 76.640(b)(4).

I guess we'll know whether Time Warner's illegal update has this issue corrected on Tuesday. And I'll get to know whether or not I get to file an FCC complaint against Time Warner! :wave:
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 21, 2012, 08:33:00 PM
Quote from: ddeerrff;58580Looks like MKE is getting the new Navigator next Tuesday night.

They are rolling out the guide pretty fast.  I just asked about it at the Untangled blog.  Do you have a source for this info?

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Thursday Jun 21, 2012, 10:07:16 PM
Link from my email.  

http://corp-mail.timewarnercable.com/Portal/content/corp/acq/2012/06June/13756_Guide_Reskin_Notification.aspx?uh=-6047162818408296149&siteNodeId=384587&b=101656&ignoremobile=1
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Thursday Jun 21, 2012, 10:13:52 PM
An email from TCW:

QuoteEnjoy TV better with our new Guide.    View Web Version      Time Warner Cable
A Better Guide is coming your way. | Get ready to enjoy TV better beginning on June 27th.
     At Time Warner Cable, we're always looking for ways to make your TV experience better. You asked for an upgraded Guide, so we are delivering our most user-friendly Guide yet, with more intuitive search and navigation than ever. Now your A button lets you easily find the channels you love by category, and your B button lets you search the Guide by title.
     
     Stay tuned for even more updates to help you enjoy TV better.
   ENJOY searching finding discovering surfing watching tv BETTER
Learn more
 
TWC.com |  Pay My Bill |  MyServices  |  Privacy Policy |  Contact us
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 21, 2012, 10:15:33 PM
Quote from: ddeerrff;58586An email from TCW:

Thanks!

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 02:47:48 PM
Quote from: ddeerrff;58580Looks like MKE is getting the new Navigator next Tuesday night.

No e-mail, phone call, or even a website notice yet. Ddeeriff, what city are you in?  I hope they don't just put the new guide on the boxes without some sort of advanced notice!

I will plan to call TWC late Monday Night to see if there is a message on their Voicemail about the new guide.  (If I don't hear or read anything about the update between later today and tomorrow evening.)  Heads ups are important, because it is helpful NOT to be recording or watching programs when the update happens.  (Usually roll-outs are between 2-6 AM and with at least two reboots and may last between 20-40 minutes.)

Very likely that the upgrade WILL hit very soon, so just to be on the safe side, start watching your DVR shows and clear off what you don't need.  Shows and series SHOULD carry over, but this is just in case.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: LoadStar on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 03:57:35 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58595No e-mail, phone call, or even a website notice yet. Ddeeriff, what city are you in?  I hope they don't just put the new guide on the boxes without some sort of advanced notice!
I got the email (on two different email accounts) on the 21st. I've attached a PDF of the email.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 04:07:58 PM
Quote from: LoadStar;58596I got the email (on two different email accounts) on the 21st. I've attached a PDF of the email.

Whoops... hang on, need to redact my email address.... stand by, will be reposted shortly.

Thanks Loadstar!

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 06:37:23 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58595No e-mail, phone call, or even a website notice yet. Ddeeriff, what city are you in?  I hope they don't just put the new guide on the boxes without some sort of advanced notice!

They sent me an email about the new guide on Thursday.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 06:42:16 PM
Quote from: grenier;58598They sent me an email about the new guide on Thursday.

I wonder why I didn't get anything?  I checked my My Services Account, e-mail is correct.  Checked that e-mail account, checked the Spam box.  Have received nothing.  But I am going to assume that next week will be the time.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 09:51:05 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58595Ddeerff, what city are you in?
Brookfield.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 09:51:59 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58599I wonder why I didn't get anything?  I checked my My Services Account, e-mail is correct.  Checked that e-mail account, checked the Spam box.  Have received nothing.  But I am going to assume that next week will be the time.

Jack

I can forward the email to you if you'd like.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jun 24, 2012, 11:20:49 PM
Quote from: grenier;58601I can forward the email to you if you'd like.

Thanks!

Loadstar sent me a copy already.  All the people with notices are in or near my area.  I did contact TWC to verify my current e-mail account that they have on file.  Only one person I know in Oak Creek got one of those automated call things that said the new guide was going to be installed Tuesday night. (Into Wednesday morning.)  I would have thought that my older box, an SA-8300HDC might not be updated yet.  But from what I know from other divisions. all the boxes. (C models SA, Cisco's and Samsungs) to the older models (No C-SA boxes, any Pioneers in circulation) are getting the update at the same time.  At least, that is what other divisions have been doing.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: kevbeck122 on Monday Jun 25, 2012, 10:43:33 PM
I didn't get an email, but got an automated call.  Just got installed last week - Cisco 8742HDC.  So is this update basically just a color change of the guide?
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Monday Jun 25, 2012, 10:50:29 PM
Quote from: kevbeck122;58603I didn't get an email, but got an automated call.  Just got installed last week - Cisco 8742HDC.  So is this update basically just a color change of the guide?

I understand that customers generally will only notice a color change.  However, some of the menus have changed to allow for the better organization of listings and categories.  For the most part, the screens and features that you have now will not change that much.

What is changing is A TON of buggy software code has been fixed with this upgrade that will make the guide faster and more reliable.  A new development team was brought in to fix bugs, because the old code was such a mess.

New features will come out next year.  But TWC wants to get the bugs out of the guide, and make sure that the boxes are all working at an above average to good level, first.  Kevbeck, you have the newest box, so that's cool!

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Monday Jun 25, 2012, 10:51:21 PM
Guide Update Tips:

Many of you will probably be receiving the new guide soon. For best results:

*Start watching shows you have recorded.

*The guide update will often be between 1-5am on the scheduled day. If you can, leave your TV and box OFF during that 1-5am time you are updated. The less stress on the box when the update goes through, the better.

*An average of 2-3 reboots is expected. 20-45 minutes is the norm, but could take as long as 90 minutes.

*You know the update has completed when the box shows the 480p resolution in the Window and the Clock Display shows the time. All should be done about 5:30am, although SOME divisions are doing updates during Prime Time. If yours is one of them, just let the box go through the update process.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Tuesday Jun 26, 2012, 08:16:45 AM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58604But TWC wants to get the bugs out of the guide, and make sure that the boxes are all working at an above average to good level, first.  Kevbeck, you have the newest box, so that's cool!

It sure would be nice if my box would go back to accurately showing the percentage used/free on the DVR.

Yet another thing that worked fine before the last update. The updates seem to cause more problem then they resolve.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jun 27, 2012, 12:04:57 AM
Cable-New Guide/Box Upgrade Tuesday Night-Wednesday Morning

UPGRADE TIME WILL BE 12AM-6AM
[/B][/U]

•   The new updated guide system will be installed on the cable boxes between 12am-6am (approx.) in the early morning of June 27, 2012.  

•   The upgrade is expected to be between 45-90 minutes.

•   The box will reboot 2-3 times at various points during the 12am-6am converter upgrade.

•   For best results, No recordings of shows or series should be scheduled and the boxes should not be used during this time.

•   During each part of the upgrade process, a series of letters and numbers will count down on the box where the clock usually shows.  This will happen two to three times between 12-6am.

•   Best to just leave the TV and everything off until after 6:00am when the upgrade should be completed. (You should see the clock showing on the box at that time.)

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Wednesday Jun 27, 2012, 01:06:54 AM
Well, as I suspected, Time Warner Cable has just finished rolling out their illegal, FCC regulation violating update to this market.

This update causes the Firewire port on the Samsung boxes to no longer function correctly. When attempting to connect with an iLink device the DVR now reboots as soon as the power button is pressed. When the device is connected after the fact, the Firewire appears green but outputs no data.

I highly recommend that everyone contact Time Warner Cable about this immediately. There are many ways to contact them here. (https://www.timewarnercable.com/Midwest/about/contactus.ashx?menu=31565) If they do not resolve this immediately then an FCC complaint filing may be necessary.

They are required by law to ensure that the Firewire port on their boxes is fully functional. (http://www.1394ta.org/consumers/FCC_complaint.html) This is a blatant violation of section 47 C.F.R. 76.640(b)(4) in CS Docket 97-80 of the FCC's regulations.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jun 27, 2012, 01:53:48 PM
Got the New Guide Last Night on my SA-8300HDC:

Positives:

I like the "A" (Find Channels) button for the category lists.
Better organization of Listings.
Box has a Permanent Guide Filter, which is nice.
New color scheme is great! Love it!

Negatives:

Still only have the keyboard as Title Search only. (Unless you subscribe to Signature Home or Multi-Room DVR Services, which gives you advanced search filters. TWC really needs to have the Keyboard search for ALL instances of what is typed in by the user, and set that as the default for ALL boxes. Boxes with Advanced Search, should also default to ALL not title.)

The box could be just a little bit faster, but is not intolerable.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Wednesday Jun 27, 2012, 06:07:20 PM
Having functionality that was working fine before the update now broken IS intolerable.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jun 27, 2012, 07:14:14 PM
Quote from: PONIES;58615Having functionality that was working fine before the update now broken IS intolerable.

Sup Ponies?

So what you are saying is that this new guide breaks compatablity with the E-SATA firmware?

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Wednesday Jun 27, 2012, 11:25:59 PM
No - they updated the drivers for the IEEE 1394 ports with this update to the box's software.

Previously they functioned correctly. Now the box reboots every time a Firewire connection is established with another device.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 28, 2012, 01:45:06 AM
New Guide on the SA-8300HDC

The Keyboard needs a speed boost on the legacy boxes. About an hour ago, stacked commands got stuck and needed about 30 seconds to work out. I am not looking for the speed of a new Cisco or Samsung, but the speed of the keyboard on ODN 5.1.04 before the upgrade. Interestingly enough the Time Grid, Find Channels, and other screens work fast with no problems at all. (At least by SA-8300HDC standards.)

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 28, 2012, 03:50:42 AM
Quote from: Jack 1000;58619New Guide on the SA-8300HDC

The Keyboard needs a speed boost on the legacy boxes. About an hour ago, stacked commands got stuck and needed about 30 seconds to work out. I am not looking for the speed of a new Cisco or Samsung, but the speed of the keyboard on ODN 5.1.04 before the upgrade. Interestingly enough the Time Grid, Find Channels, and other screens work fast with no problems at all. (At least by SA-8300HDC standards.)

Jack

Update on the above issue,

The amount of "Loading Data" "Please Wait" issues is directly proportional to the number of listings that the system is looking for when words are keyed into the keyboard.  Try this:

1.) Press The "B" button on the new guide. Start to Type "Emeril" and his shows are seen on the right-hand side in a few seconds.

2.) Now do another "B" search for MLB Baseball.  It takes about 30-40 seconds for the "MLB" to come on the screen, because there are about 30 some baseball games "Tiered" under the MLB sports title.  Cisco's and Samsung owners.  Time this.  Now try it on an SA box.  It takes ever to load up the baseball listings.  On the old guide, this went much faster and needs to be corrected.  (It was not this slow on the older guide, but only SEEMS to be slow when there are tons of listings associated with the title or show search.

More Observations:

The "Find Channels" (Formerly Access) has some redundant information.  If you go to Search by Network, A-Z, you will just get a listing of alphabetical names of networks.  If you go to Search by Title in the horizontal menu while in the 'Find Channels menu, it does NOT bring up the keyboard on my SA-8300HDC, but simply shows the same list of information as "Search by Network." (A-Z)

It seems you have to go to the B button to get the traditional Keyboard, and than hit B again for the traditional Category Search.

The Help Menu in our division is a quick access to some of the How To Channels, but some information appears to be incomplete.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: cnjbucks on Thursday Jun 28, 2012, 12:22:44 PM
Now that the update is out, can anyone tell me if the guide is full screen now?   I used to have a Samsung box, and with that box the guide was always full screen.   That box died, and I was given a SciAtl box because I was told the Samsung boxes are only available to whole home dvr customers.   On the SciAtl boxes I have, the guide is never full screen.

A friend of mine had a chat session with a TW rep, and he says that the guide should be full screen now.  The rep thinks it might be something in our area, we both live about 10 minutes away in Waukesha.

Thanks everyone.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 28, 2012, 12:57:59 PM
Quote from: cnjbucks;58621Now that the update is out, can anyone tell me if the guide is full screen now?   I used to have a Samsung box, and with that box the guide was always full screen.   That box died, and I was given a SciAtl box because I was told the Samsung boxes are only available to whole home dvr customers.   On the SciAtl boxes I have, the guide is never full screen.

A friend of mine had a chat session with a TW rep, and he says that the guide should be full screen now.  The rep thinks it might be something in our area, we both live about 10 minutes away in Waukesha.

Thanks everyone.

The Samsung boxes are "stretched 4x3" to a full screen.  The SA's and Cisco's are 4x3.  A true 16x9 guide screen in HD is being developed for the new guide, BUT it will only be released for the Samsungs and Cisco's when ready.  The SA boxes, which are legacy, can't do an HD Guide, because of hardware limitations.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 28, 2012, 09:00:44 PM
Two Issues on the SA-8300HDC (Negatives)

1.) Between 20-30 seconds of lag time in show listings with multiple games in the Title. (Searches on Keyboard for MLB Baseball.) Everything is slowed down and stalled with this type of keyboard search, including Page+/Page-

2.) Time Grid date change does not change when doing the Day+ or Day #+ Forward Tip. The data changes but not the day.

#1 is such a negative, it reduces the box to the slowness of the old Pioneer model. TWC needs to push a software update patch, or update its servers to handle faster guide data transfers. If they could get the data to come up in as little as 10 seconds and not 25 for the multiple sports listings, I'd be happy.

Positives:

1.) Fast Time Grid
2.) Fast Guide Filter
3. Beautiful Color Scheme
4.) No recording or playback issues.

I reported the Keyboard slowness to our local division. If you are having a problem with your Keyboard being slow or not working well on the new guide, please give your box make and model number and report it through your division's website, AND through the TWC feedback form here:

http://www.timewarnercable.com/northeast/learn/cable/guide/feedback.html

Close out of the nag screen and enter your feedback, than click submit. Thanks! Oh, if you have slowness with your keyboard on the new guide, use the Contact Us here form for our local Wisconsin division as well:

https://www.timewarnercable.com/Midwest/about/contactus.ashx  (Scroll Down to E-mail Us) Select the Feedback option for your inquiry.

I would recommend the e-mail option. The chat is just scripted talk and if you call, they will want to swap out the box, and there is no guarantee that you are going to get a newer box, or that a box swap is going to solve the problem.  E-Mail them about the slowness of the Keyboard if you have a box that is doing this.  WHEN YOU E-MAIL TWC, SPECIFICALLY REQUEST THAT THE ISSUE WITH THE SLOW KEYBOARD SEARCH BE FORWARDED TO THE ON-SCREEN GUIDE ENGINEERING/DEVELOPMENT TEAM.  I cited the example about the slowness and frustration with getting MLB Baseball games to come up on the keyboard and how long it takes.  The more people who cite the issues with the slow keyboard, the more likely this gets resolved sooner, rather than later.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Friday Jun 29, 2012, 10:53:28 PM
With the new guide... Looks like 'Tune to Nearest' no longer works in the guide. On the old one, I could punch in (for example) 225, and if channel 225 did not exist the guide would scroll to 226 (or whatever was nearest and active). Now it instead goes to "1" if the channel does not exist.

Edit:
After playing with it a bit more.... I've got the guide customized by setting it to show 'Favorites'. If I ask for a channel that actually does not exist, it jumps properly to 'nearest'. If I ask for a channel that exists, but is hidden from the guide (by not being set as a favorite), then it jumps to channel 1.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jul 01, 2012, 02:36:43 AM
Multiple Listings of Titles Have Awful Lag Time on Keyboard Search

(Legacy TWC Boxes With New Guide)

I can now give SPECIFIC Guide data speed comparisons concerning the lag time on the legacy boxes when using the Keyboard. A friend of mine has an SA-8240HDC box. I have an SA-8300HDC box. The keyboard will freeze for up to 25 seconds from the time the response goes from the Remote Control to the screen on the legacy boxes when more than 7 instances of a show title are in the system. The more shows in the system, the longer the lag-time on the SA-8240HDC and SA-8300HDC. We both searched for MLB Baseball (which has about 40 games under the Title MLB Baseball) by keying the information on the new guide keyboard We timed this: Also the engineers should note that on the legacy boxes, after this lengthy search. We tested it out on the SA 8240HDC, the SA-8300HDC and the Cisco 8742 and there was quite a difference!

SA-8240HDC: (His Box)

M - 3 seconds
L - 22 seconds
B - 21 seconds

SA-8300HDC (My Box)

M- 5 seconds
L- 22 seconds
B- 21 seconds

Cisco-8742HDC: (His Other Box)

M - 1 second
L - 5 seconds
B - 3 seconds

As you can see, the speed tests on the different boxes, show that a software update is needed for the legacy terminals. We don't expect the speed to get down to the quickness of the modern Cissco's. But the legacy boxes for keyboard searching should still not have any more than a 10 SECOND MAXIMUM FOR ANY TYPED DATA. 8 SECONDS WOULD BE IDEAL, GETTING IT DOWN TO 5 WOULD BE GREAT! When Football season starts this fall, if a software patch is NOT applied to speed up the keyboard response data of the legacy boxes, customers who search for College Football and NFL Football using the keyboard will be very frustrated.

Jack

PS.  I will be posting my update threads about the new software in this thread so that more people can see them.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: PONIES on Sunday Jul 01, 2012, 07:15:54 AM
What is it about your brain that makes you so obsessed with every mundane detail about the mediocre stock DVR interface of America's 2nd largest cable company?

Who calls up a friend to compare exact keyword typing times among multiple Time Warner units? Who does that? WHO DOES THAT?

:huh?:
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: duncantuna on Sunday Jul 01, 2012, 11:17:55 AM
Answer:  Awesome people do that.  

Thanks, Jack.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jul 01, 2012, 12:52:50 PM
Quote from: PONIES;58634What is it about your brain that makes you so obsessed with every mundane detail about the mediocre stock DVR interface of America's 2nd largest cable company?

Who calls up a friend to compare exact keyword typing times among multiple Time Warner units? Who does that? WHO DOES THAT?

:huh?:

Ponies,

Oh a lot of us are very serious about the technology.  When people as a group are paying $100-$300 on average for different levels of cable service, and their are overt slowness flaws for technology in 2012, you can bet that we are gonna report it.  If these rates were like back in the 90's when it was just cable for $40 a month (remember those times?) I and others might not care so much.  But with the rates at $100 or more each month there is a certain level of expectation for today's technology.  The TWC keyboard fails to meet that level of expectation.

A reasonable fast keyboard across the boxes, which the new guide has yet failed to produce is just as important to me as your claim on TWC violating the FCC regulation of disabling a DVR's external ports.  The more people that report issues, the more likely they will be considered in future software upgrades.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: popegreg on Tuesday Jul 03, 2012, 12:25:49 AM
I've got an SA-8300HD (non OCAP) and I'm not seeing any lag time at all when searching.  I tried M then L then B then selected MLB Baseball and looked at the listings.  Less than a second for each step for me.

I'm also not seeing the issue with the date not changing in the Time Grid.

So not all legacy boxes are affected, my box is even older than the 8300HDC.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Jul 03, 2012, 12:51:15 AM
Quote from: popegreg;58647I've got an SA-8300HD (non OCAP) and I'm not seeing any lag time at all when searching.  I tried M then L then B then selected MLB Baseball and looked at the listings.  Less than a second for each step for me.

I'm also not seeing the issue with the date not changing in the Time Grid.

So not all legacy boxes are affected, my box is even older than the 8300HDC.

Great!

Two reasins to still have an SA-8300HD (no C) box:

1.) Faster Keyboard Search
2.) External Drive Support

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Jul 03, 2012, 01:56:13 PM
In Testing Keyboard Speed Differences With The Multiple Title Listings-(Update)


So far,

The tests show the legacy "C" model boxes as being extremely slow with extensive Title Search Keyboard Listings of the same title.

BUT I just got a report that the MODERN Samsung 3260 was EVEN SLOWER on the "MLB Keyboard Listing Test" than my SA-8300HDC!!! Cisco has a 4250HDC that is very slow and he said he was afraid to try it on that box!!!!

Everyone just keep testing this out on the different boxes like you've been doing! Thanks! Make sure you give your box make and model number if you are reporting slowness issues on the keyboard with the new guide to TWC

So far, the Speedy box winners with returning keyboard search results quickly, are the the latest model Cisco 8742HDC and the very, very old, but has always been fast SA-8300HD (no C box.)

The mystery is why the HDC boxes are so slow with the same title keyboard listings as the listings are increased? And just as baffling, how a modern SAMSUNG, the 3260 would be terribly slow with the multiple same title keyboard listings?

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: skier8734 on Wednesday Jul 04, 2012, 06:28:26 PM
On my Samsung 3270 the search is almost unusable with how slow it is, you type a letter in and it takes 9 sec. before you can move to the next letter.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Jul 31, 2012, 01:36:48 PM
A Heads up to any TWC Tech Engineers Responsible for Updates to the STB Guide:

(If you are reading these boards)

On the ODN STB's several areas of New York City and vicinity released ODN version 5.2.09, which is a bug fix for ODN version 5.2.07  the fixes include:


Please release this software patch version ODN 5.2.09 ASAP to Milwaukee and SE Wisconsin areas, to fix the search slowness with the keyboard.  Keyboard searches are now almost impossible and the slowness of the keyboard on ODN boxes, is very frustrating in using the guide.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Tuesday Jul 31, 2012, 09:27:32 PM
I'll second that request.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Aug 23, 2012, 02:09:03 AM
Hi Everyone,

Our ODN boxes (C Model SA/Ciscos) got a software update that should improve keyboard searches and overall navigaton.  I tried it and it is MUCH BETTER!

We were upgraded from ODN 5.2.07 to 5.2.09.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Aug 23, 2012, 11:11:01 AM
We got the update too.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Thursday Aug 23, 2012, 10:05:42 PM
My Samsung box got the update to _09.  Channel change response better, but still nothing to write home about.   What are they running in these boxes, an 8008?
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Friday Aug 24, 2012, 03:39:27 PM
Quote from: ddeerrff;58844My Samsung box got the update to _09.  Channel change response better, but still nothing to write home about.   What are they running in these boxes, an 8008?

Comments on the ODN Update (ODN 5.2.09)

On my SA-8300HDC the keyboard is now so much better!  You key a letter and there is no more than a half-second between when you keyed in the letter and when it shows on the screen.

The Loading Data is faster, but sometimes takes up to five or six seconds to show.  But once the listings are there for the keyboard, it's pretty fast.  I'm taking about keyboard speeds comparable to the no c SA-8300 (MDN box.)

The Time Grid Scroll is about the same.  That wasn't really a problem in the first place.  It's not super-fast, but was never overly slow.

Occasionally, there is guide lag where when you move from one cell to the other in the Grid, the left-hand corner does not change.  You must move back to the previous cell, than on the cell for the programing in the left hand corner to change.

Day/Date Data in the Time Grid:  With the release of ODN 5.2.09 both change with the trick of doing the following:

1.) Opening up the Guide to the Time Grid.

2.) Pressing the right arrow key than the number of days you want to advance the guide.

3.) ODN 5.2.07 had the bug where when you did the arrow trick, the data would change but not the day.  ODN 5.2.09 fixes this bug.

4.) Responses to setting up recordings is almost instantaneous.  I'm talking about the Record This Show.......Record Series.........Record Show With Options.

5.) No HDMI "Mode Not Supported" Problems yet.  Although I had only one with ODN 5.2.07 as it was.  If your Video Source Button is programmed to accept other output.  "Google Search your remote name and model number to find out how to program it for your TV and other optional equipment.)

If your Video Source button is programed for this, just hit the button to cycle through the video modes to go through and back to the cable/STB mode next time you get a Mode Not Supported Error through HDMI cables.  You will get your picture and sound back without rebooting!

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: superkingt on Saturday Aug 25, 2012, 10:10:21 PM
Hey, I'm new here, and this might sound like a dumb question, but how do I find out what version of Navigator my box is running? I tried looking through some of the menus, but I didn't see anything that looked like a version number.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Saturday Aug 25, 2012, 11:12:41 PM
What box do you have?  On my Samsung, it's on channel 1900 page 6.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: superkingt on Sunday Aug 26, 2012, 12:30:10 PM
Quote from: ddeerrff;58849What box do you have?  On my Samsung, it's on channel 1900 page 6.
Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300HD
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Nov 14, 2012, 08:10:01 PM
Several areas around the country got an update patch last night on the boxes.  Customers report that their DVR storage is now showing less space used!  This was a previous bug with the Black Guide roll-out.

I hope that this fixes the 30 day or so keyboard slowdown, that requires a cold reboot to get the boxes up to speed again.

Do you notice your DVR's any faster or any speed boosts in Navigation?

Still the same version and features with ODN 5.2.09 here.  ODN 6.0 is the next new build and should follow this patch, hopefully before the end of the year or early next year.  It will prep the boxes for secure cloud services, beginning with expanded search options and an improved VOD selection.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Wednesday Nov 14, 2012, 09:37:22 PM
I don't notice any speed improvements but my DVR is now showing the correct space usage.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Dec 04, 2012, 01:08:02 PM
Syracuse New York just got Navigator 6.0.  Reported Speed improvements and "Subscribed Channels" list added to the guide filter.  Hope this will address the reliability issues that have been reported.

With the new channel additions planned on or after December 12, we probably won't get this version before than, but will probably get it sometime between than and before the end of the year.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Tuesday Dec 04, 2012, 08:56:47 PM
I dread the updates. For every one thing that gets fixed there is another problem.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Tuesday Dec 04, 2012, 09:44:33 PM
Can't get any worse.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Apr 04, 2013, 07:50:00 AM
ODN boxes got updated last night to version 6.0.19 (C-Model SA's, Ciscos, and Samsungs)

This is predominately a bug-fix release.  A new feature is the ability to filter the guide by Subscribed  Channels in the Time Grid.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Apr 04, 2013, 08:19:44 AM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59274This is predominately a bug-fix release.  

I hope it didn't create any new bugs.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: LoadStar on Thursday Apr 04, 2013, 12:32:37 PM
Possibly coincidentally, I've heard reports that CableCards also received firmware updates at about the same time. Because they have no UI, users should see no indication of a firmware update unless there is a problem with the update process.

Possibly related to the cablecard firmware update, my Tuning Adapter lost its authentication (indicated by a pattern of 8 blinks on the LED on the front of the device). Tier 1 was unable to help, but the National CableCard Support desk was able to push a series of reauthorization signals ("hits" as they call it) to the box and it reauthorized. If you have a problem with a tuning adapter, you may be best off to skip the tier 1 people and go straight to the National CableCard desk.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Thursday Apr 04, 2013, 02:15:31 PM
The only update I can see is the subscribed channels, though one of my DVRs got stuck on the app update, so the TWC Signature Home person guided me through it until it took. All that is needed to do if your box sticks on the update is to do that unplug for 30 sec routine and watch it count down to 1 and it then works. My HD picture was in stretch mode, then it went  back ok. The on screen display on your picture will show a frozen update or the box will say "APP" but it is okay to do the reboot and it should work. :wave:
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Apr 04, 2013, 03:29:58 PM
Important  information about this update:

Digital Phone subs who got this update, should also check their Caller ID prompt settings if they want the prompt turned on.  The new software turned mine off.  (Go to Settings and Caller ID, and Select on for the Display Prompt to make sure your Call setting prompt is on, if that's how you had it before.)

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Apr 04, 2013, 09:48:10 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59279Important  information about this update:

Digital Phone subs who got this update, should also check their Caller ID prompt settings if they want the prompt turned on.  The new software turned mine off.  (Go to Settings and Caller ID, and Select on for the Display Prompt to make sure your Call setting prompt is on, if that's how you had it before.)

My prompt wan't turned off.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: duncantuna on Thursday Apr 04, 2013, 10:09:30 PM
I noticed one other tweak .. when you are in the List and select the show, select delete .. you used to hit "A" to delete .. now you need to mouse down then hit select.

Idiotic change.  What used to take 5 clicks (which was bad) now takes 6 with no particular benefit.  What were they thinking?
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Talos4 on Friday Apr 05, 2013, 08:34:15 AM
More rhetorical than fact finding question....

Why is it when they send these "updates" out I have to pull the power and cold boot in order to view 50-60% of my channels.

"This channel Temporarily Unavailable, please try again later, Press "A" to retry".

2 Samsung boxes every time. Doesn't matter if it's HBO or History etc.

Not a life altering event just a PITA.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Friday Apr 05, 2013, 03:55:17 PM
I really wish one of the updates would restore the two hour buffer and perhaps give us more then eight reminder timers.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Friday Apr 05, 2013, 06:02:49 PM
Quote from: grenier;59284I really wish one of the updates would restore the two hour buffer and perhaps give us more then eight reminder timers.

My big wish is still keyword search for the keyboard.  Passport's keyboard was better because you could type in a person, title, or word and the system would find all instances of what was typed  An insider told me this is being worked on for all the boxes, but I'll believe that when I see it.

At least this version, appears to be stable.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Wednesday Apr 10, 2013, 09:56:10 AM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59285My big wish is still keyword search for the keyboard.  Passport's keyboard was better because you could type in a person, title, or word and the system would find all instances of what was typed  An insider told me this is being worked on for all the boxes, but I'll believe that when I see it.

At least this version, appears to be stable.

Jack

No word on my contacts, but so far the system appears stable on my Cisco boxes.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jun 05, 2013, 02:46:23 PM
Yesterday,

TWC added the Display Color Change Option to the Settings here in Wisconsin. Damn, is that thing UGLY!!! You talk about saving memory? Kill that feature and bring back DVR Compensation! Actually we still have DVR Compensation, cuz we am still on ODN 6.0.19 and not ODN 6.1.05 yet. When I first tried it, it said, "Not available, try later." Than in the middle of playback of a recording, I tried it, the box locked up. Had to hold the power button in to get the light to flash to reboot the box.  DVR Compensation is leaving with the next ODN update. (C-boxes and Samsungs.)  TWC says they had to remove it because it was a memory strain on the older boxes. I don't believe that.

Anyway, the point being that the options they give you are "New" or "Classic." The "Classic" if it went back to the old Navigator interface, might be something good, but its just a yellow cursor background instead of the default blue. It takes about 20 seconds on the SA-8300HDC to change the color scheme. The Time Grid tries to mimic the old Navigator/Passport colors, the problem is the background remains Black. The change really isn't the old color format. it seems to be more of a half and half. This reminds me of that "Graphic Transparency" feature with the Transparent Info bar. I think that is gone, but not sure.

Does anyone like the Display Color Option?

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Wednesday Jun 05, 2013, 08:35:02 PM
I don't see that option on my boxes.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jun 05, 2013, 09:11:08 PM
Quote from: gparris;59370I don't see that option on my boxes.


Maybe it hasn't "hit" all the boxes yet.  When it does, it would be under the Display settings.  I think only the C-boxes (SA-C's, Ciscos, and Samsungs will get it.)

Go to Settings
Display
In Display, Look for "Display Colors" in the up/down list.

A.) "New" is the default skin
B.) Classic is the modified skin.

If the box says, "Not available, try again later" when you try to activate the classic skin, users will need to reboot to see it to do to see it.  In my opinion, not worth the bother.  Allow a good 20 seconds after the "Please Wait" prompt  if you change the Color Scheme for the change to take effect, or to change it back again between the "New" and "Classic" modes.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Wednesday Jun 05, 2013, 09:29:55 PM
Found it. Classic is ugly and a waste of programming. Thanks
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 06, 2013, 03:38:23 AM
Quote from: gparris;59372Found it. Classic is ugly and a waste of programming. Thanks

Not to mention, it's buggy as hell.  At least on the SA-8300 HDC.  Twice when changing the colors,  it locked up, requiring a reboot, and one time it would not let me get out of the "Classic Mode" saying "New "is unavailable-please try later."  I reported the bug at the Direct to Tech Forum.  However, I think this feature is a waste of box memory.

Maybe it would be different if the option actually went back to the old color scheme that Navigator used to have where it sort of looked like Passport.  The mixture of yellow and on the Time Grid, blue with faded text looks awful.  Will leave this setting at the default.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jul 11, 2013, 02:47:39 PM
The last update removes DVR Compensation from the boxes.  If you have not lost it yet, it will soon happen.  ODN's latest update ODN 6.1.05 (For C-Model and Samsung boxes) removes this feature.  It will also be removed from MDN boxes soon, (Non-C, no Samsung set tops.)

Explanations from TWC vary and are hotly debated.  Ranging from a memory strain on the legacy boxes, to making way for new features.  Perhaps this is true, but the most likely explanation, which TWC refuses to acknowledge, is a lawsuit from Tivo, claiming that they own the rights to this feature:

You can read more about this here:

http://www.milwaukeehdtv.org/forums/showthread.php?p=59447#post59447

Satch
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Friday Jul 12, 2013, 08:49:37 AM
One of my whole house DVR boxes needed a hard reboot as it failed to get all the channels in, asking for the A button to try again, but then all channels came in again, once the box was rebooted with this new subtraction in DVR features.
For my boxes, every time TWC does things with their programming, the power-on HD channel comes out stretched and then once you jump to another HD channel, the stretch disappears, everything is "normal" again.
-If and when the new channel line ups come up, which I hope is soon, hopefully nothing else will happen to the boxes to require any attention on my part.:OnAir:
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Friday Jul 12, 2013, 09:11:04 AM
Quote from: gparris;59460For my boxes, every time TWC does things with their programming, the power-on HD channel comes out stretched and then once you jump to another HD channel, the stretch disappears, everything is "normal" again.

When my box reboots, it goes to channel 01, not an HD channel so it's all stretched like you mention.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Friday Jul 12, 2013, 09:23:43 AM
Quote from: grenier;59461When my box reboots, it goes to channel 01, not an HD channel so it's all stretched like you mention.

All boxes are preprogrammed to go to channel 1 unless you hit the setting button on your remote and change the power-on channel to something else, I just prefer the HD channel I usually end up watching. I have stretch in my setup for the non-HD channels such as 64, which gives me the local weather (until TWC changes that with its new channel lineup changes, maybe), but my HD channels never stretch unless I manually ask them to with the # button. That is why I wonder everytime after a programming change in our boxes this stretch occurs on my assigned power-on channel, but thanks for the reply.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Nov 06, 2013, 08:59:00 AM
Navigator Cloud Based Guide Begins Gradual Rollout

Although not in the Wisconsin area yet, the next release for ODN version 7 will lay the groundwork for the guide next year and in years to come with a cloud-based interface that will include:
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: LoadStar on Wednesday Nov 06, 2013, 12:54:31 PM
Well, it's... um... less horrible.

I'll stick with my new TiVo Roamio. :)
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Nov 06, 2013, 03:29:33 PM
Quote from: LoadStar;59736Well, it's... um... less horrible.

I'll stick with my new TiVo Roamio. :)

LOL!@"Less Horrible."

Reviews have been mixed.  However, it's very early in the game.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Saturday Jan 11, 2014, 06:46:50 PM
January 2104-Cable Box Upgrade

TWC subs are expected to receive a software update on the boxes sometime between mid next week and before the end of the month.  The update could happen Monday night into Tuesday morning between 12-5am.  FOR BEST RESULTS, USERS SHOULD NOT BE RECORDING OR WATCHING TV DURING THIS TIME.  There may be up to three software reboots of your cable box during the update process:

Subscribers are expected to get the following features:

* All boxes get the return of DVR Compensation restored to them!

* A feature allowing the user the ability to filter the guide alphabetically in the Time Grid is expected to be added to Guide Filtering options.

*The new Cisco and Samsung boxes begin rolling out cloud based features including:

*A 16x9 HD guide, which will be set by default.  Users with standard definition or smaller HD screens will be able to return to the 4x3 guide in Settings.

*  Cisco and Samsung boxes in some areas also have received new search screens, VOD menus, and a new DVR Management Screen.  The new search has gotten mixed reviews and not all divisions have this update yet.  It is still being rolled out and for now, will only be on the Cisco and Samsung boxes.

*Cisco and Samsung boxes SHOULD get the new HD guide in all updated areas. All boxes get DVR Compensation restored to them.

*Several internal bug fixes with this release.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: duncantuna on Saturday Jan 11, 2014, 09:54:58 PM
Sounds like more reasons to get a Cisco or Samsung box.

Last week my 8 year old 8300HDC flaked out, and the tech tried to remotely fix it, but failed.  The next morning, it seemed to be back fine, but I thought, hey, let's swap the box anyhow, get one of those "new" boxes.

Except all they had were 8300HDCs .. which was really astonishing.  I asked the TWC rep how old the phone was in her pocket, 1 year?  2 years old?  Yet somehow, TWC is still handing out 8 year old technology .. and charging consumers for them, too.

I asked politely, how could I obtain a Cisco or Samsung?  Answer: Good luck.  But she gave me her business card and said I could email her and she'd check inventory and set one aside.  I did that .. but got no response.

Anyone else have any tricks on how one could get a newer DVR?
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Saturday Jan 11, 2014, 10:39:27 PM
Quote from: duncantuna;59782Sounds like more reasons to get a Cisco or Samsung box.

Last week my 8 year old 8300HDC flaked out, and the tech tried to remotely fix it, but failed.  The next morning, it seemed to be back fine, but I thought, hey, let's swap the box anyhow, get one of those "new" boxes.

Except all they had were 8300HDCs .. which was really astonishing.  I asked the TWC rep how old the phone was in her pocket, 1 year?  2 years old?  Yet somehow, TWC is still handing out 8 year old technology .. and charging consumers for them, too.

I asked politely, how could I obtain a Cisco or Samsung?  Answer: Good luck.  But she gave me her business card and said I could email her and she'd check inventory and set one aside.  I did that .. but got no response.

Anyone else have any tricks on how one could get a newer DVR?

I agree with you 100%

Right now in Wisconsin the only way to get the newer boxes (Cisco or Samsung) is to enroll in a Whole House DVR program, which is an additional $10 a month plus the cost of box rental OR enroll in Signature Home, which is $200 a month or $230 a month with HBO/Cinemax/Showtime/Movie Channel/Movie Pass/ added.

Signature Home is Triple Play, plus you get more knowledgeable techs and a personalized number to call with no wait times.  We have some subs on the forum in the program and they like it.  But it is pricy at $200 a month.

Your only other option is to go to one of the TWC offices and literally BEG for a Cisco or Samsung box.  Problem is, inventory changes daily and they might not have them.  The other problem is that ANY box swaps are like Forrest Gump's saying in the movie about the box of chocolates, "You never know what your going to get."  Sometimes the newer boxes can still have issues.

The  one thing that sucks about the new search.  Again, I don't know if we are going to get it or not, but while you can search by Title, Genera, Description, Cast, or Sports, the B button no longer starts the search on the show being watched or the show being highlighted in the Time Grid.  This means that you have to start your searches from the beginning EACH TIME!  Customers around the country have been asking TWC to release an update so that the new search always begins on the show being watched.  Customers have said that the old B search, while dated, seemed simpler to use.  Video On Demand Cover Art is also eventually going to be a part of the new cloud services.

Due to the fact I only have an SA box (SA-8300HDC) I won't be able to provide first hand help about many of the new features from a first-person perspective on the forum.  I have friends and higher ups knowledgeable with TWC updates, so I'll try to pass along what I know.

The other downside is trying to convince our division to start giving out newer boxes in box swaps.  TWC has been testing a six-tuner DVR since 2010 or so.  I really hope that this year at some point they release those DVR's into the field because a two-tuner environment for 2014 just SUCKS!  I think that TWC will probably only make the six-tuner boxes available to Whole House and Signature Home subs at the start.  Than and only than, I predict those old SA-8300 models will be purged from the system.

Actually the NON C SA-8300 was a good fast box. (The SA-8300HDC's are still slow at times, but mine has gotten better with the last several updates.)  The SA-8300's drawback was the small hard drive, but you could hook up a Western Digital Drive Expander and get almost unlimited storage!  No joke that there's a division in New York still giving out SA-8000's!!!  That was TWC's first DVR going back to 2003!!!!!  The HDC boxes are hit and miss (mostly miss) with Drive Expanders.

I'm told  that the new 16x9 guide is cool, but it seems like you have to have at least a 40' screen to read it well.  The out-dated cable boxes for me are the only bad part of TWC's  service experience.  Phone and Internet are AWESOME!  I have Triple Play.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: duncantuna on Sunday Jan 12, 2014, 10:32:44 AM
Thanks for the info ..

I wonder .. what if you signed up for Whole House DVR .. got the newer box, then cancelled that service after a few months .. would they let you keep the newer DVR...
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jan 12, 2014, 12:44:34 PM
Quote from: duncantuna;59784Thanks for the info ..

I wonder .. what if you signed up for Whole House DVR .. got the newer box, then cancelled that service after a few months .. would they let you keep the newer DVR...

I would say probably.  You might have to do a little begging.  Other divisions that are happy to give out the newer boxes wouldn't care.  All you;d have to do is just say, "I've had so many problems with the SA boxes and really want to keep the newer Cisco/Samsung because it's faster and has more storage.  

You can shoot me a PM anytime if you want to upgrade to get a better box.  (Don't want to go off-topic with this, cuz this topic is for software update schedules and issues for new guide releases.)  I try to keep in touch with what is going on in other divisions.  If it's any consolation, most other company cable boxes suck too!  It's like they have this love affair with legacy hardware, seriously!  There is still the economic issue of replacing 15-20 million set tops in the field.  All the cable operators have too many boxes, too many nodes, too many venders.

Over time, the legacy boxes are supposed to be moving to a cloud based system with more features coming off the hardware and onto their server networks.  Long range would be that you wouldn't even need a box at all!  Everything would just sit on the server side of the network.  Cable under this system could still go out like your Internet might go out.  But at least you would not lose settings and shows anymore and you would not have to worry about what boxes to get!  When you ordered new services, they would just unlock them from the cloud, and ping them to your account.

Jack
Title: Samsung Boxes
Post by: Kenoman on Monday Jan 13, 2014, 08:23:18 AM
(Know this is off topic, sorry). As far as I know here in Kenosha they have been handing out the Samsung boxes but you never know what you will get when you go to the TWC store. One of my boxes has the large hard drive as the other one has the smaller one. I am not on total home.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Monday Jan 13, 2014, 02:41:36 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59781January 2104-Cable Box Upgrade

TWC subs are expected to receive a software update on the boxes sometime between mid next week and before the end of the month.  The update could happen Monday night into Tuesday morning between 12-5am.  FOR BEST RESULTS, USERS SHOULD NOT BE RECORDING OR WATCHING TV DURING THIS TIME.  

I hope they can give a little more accurate timeframe, I have recordings scheduled.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Jan 14, 2014, 04:57:19 PM
Sup?

Nothing happened last night.  We are usually tied in with other regions like Ohio who got updated.  Probably something by end of the month though.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jan 15, 2014, 12:32:18 AM
Update is going through this morning.  There is a message on TWC voice-mail.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Wednesday Jan 15, 2014, 10:37:39 AM
The HD guide is nice, but when watching SD programming the sides of the information banner and description are cut off and unreadable.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jan 15, 2014, 11:59:26 AM
Cable Box Update-SA-8300HDC- January 14 2014 for Wisconsin


The following features are noted:


1.)   The return of DVR Compensation!
2.)   The "A" Button-Find Shows now actually lists the name of the show being on the system when you select a category from the A menu.  It's like the old "What's on Now" from the Passport Software days
3.)   Improved handling of texts and font sizes.  There was some text overlap on one of my channels it's gone now.  A nice change
4.)    The Record Log is still there.  Some subs in divisions complained it was gone on a few set tops.
5.)   Speed is a little faster.  The bug that sometimes showed the search commands overlapping when moving from categories seems to be gone.
6.)   Search is the same "B" button.  I am REALLY hoping to see the return of a simple keyword search for the next release.  Just have the keyboard search by Titles/Keywords like Passport did ten years ago.  The other new advanced searches are window dressing and not needed.


Notes: Build version here is ODN 7.2.05
   No comments for any of the new 16x9 HD guide or new search/VOD screens even if they currently have been released to Wisconsin.  I do not have a qualifying box.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Wednesday Jan 15, 2014, 04:17:21 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59791No comments for any of the new 16x9 HD guide or new search/VOD screens even if they currently have been released to Wisconsin.  I do not have a qualifying box.

I have a Cisco 8640HDC box, the PIP is now closer to the corners of the screen, it used to be closer to the center of the screen. I see no difference with the search screens. The VOD screen is messed up, it's not in HD, so it's cut off on the sides. Maybe I need to change a setting somewhere.

I have it figured out but I'm hoping someone can help with a box setting. Under Picture Size, there are three options, Normal, Stretch and Zoom, I had it set to Normal and it was causing the problem I mentioned. Does that setting only apply to SD programming? It didn't seem to change the HD picture.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Thursday Jan 16, 2014, 07:22:32 AM
The guide and the DVR fast forward screens are finally set for full HD screens, a very (finally) good addition to what seemed to be a old format for SD TVs that are going away, at least in my household. DVR compensation, something we lost, is now  back and I now have to remember to use it, compensating on my own with the remote took some skill and I have to relearn not to do it.
As far as the other features, I  still use the # button to zoom, normal and stretch on the fly to get un-viewable parts of the screen, that is all I have to mention regarding that, but the upgrade is worth it-I don't watch any SD programming anymore.
My whole house system seems to work well and I did not see any problems last night. Jack 1000, thanks for the info. :wave:
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Jan 16, 2014, 10:22:25 AM
After the update I'm unable to successfully schedule a new series recording. It's showing the program in the Series Manager but it's not scheduling any recordings.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Jan 16, 2014, 12:25:48 PM
Quote from: gparris;59793I  still use the # button to zoom, normal and stretch on the fly to get un-viewable parts of the screen, that is all I have to mention regarding that, but the upgrade is worth it-I don't watch any SD programming anymore.

The # button doesn't change the screen size for me, it used to.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jan 16, 2014, 01:31:03 PM
Quote from: grenier;59792I have a Cisco 8640HDC box, the PIP is now closer to the corners of the screen, it used to be closer to the center of the screen. I see no difference with the search screens. The VOD screen is messed up, it's not in HD, so it's cut off on the sides. Maybe I need to change a setting somewhere.

I have it figured out but I'm hoping someone can help with a box setting. Under Picture Size, there are three options, Normal, Stretch and Zoom, I had it set to Normal and it was causing the problem I mentioned. Does that setting only apply to SD programming? It didn't seem to change the HD picture.

Yes.  Picture size applies only to the SD stations:

Normal: Retains  the aspect ratio of 4x3 SD with sidebars.

Stretch: Expands the picture to simulate a 16x9 screen with some mid distortion because of the sizing.  Makes everything fit.  (Many use this setting as the default, others hate it, and select "Normal.")

Zoom: Simulates a 16x9 screen with no distortion, but the very top and bottom of the images are cut off.

The new search and VOD features are only out in selected markets. (And only for the newer boxes.)  How is the new DVR Management List?  I found a bug on the SA-8300HDC.  The A button for Find Shows, yes it now gives the name of the show and not just the channel number.  But the Info button does not work on this screen, even if there is more information about the show.

The new search and VOD ports are server-based, and this release has the software that preps the qualifying boxes for that. However, the new search and VOD functions must be activated  by the Master System Operator at the head end.  The division must also be ready for this first cloud simulated feature.  Some divisions got it about four days after the new software update and some won't for awhile.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Jan 16, 2014, 04:28:00 PM
Thanks Jack, looks like I'm going to have to go with Stretch with the new HD menu.

There is no change with the DVR management, it's exactly the same on my box.

My box rebooted earlier, sometime around noon. I had a recording going and five minutes is missing.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Jan 19, 2014, 01:05:38 PM
I've noticed with the latest update that the hard drive in my box spins down. The box is totally silent a short time after I turn it off and you can hear the hard drive start up when I turn the box on.

It used to do this all the time, one of the past updates did something that had the hard drive running almost constantly.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Tuesday Jan 21, 2014, 10:01:14 AM
I found a bug with the update, at least with my box. After a reboot, the DVR Compensation settings keep going back to "Normal".
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Talos4 on Wednesday Jan 22, 2014, 09:20:03 AM
About the only thing I can say about the update on my 8300 HDC is the return of DVR Compensation. Thank You.

Other than that, meh.

My two Samsung boxes have the new guide and I like it. Much easier to read not mention the larger listing.

However my DVR is on my main display in the loft and it would have been nice to be able to have the new HD guide there.

I remain astonished that TWC is so far behind in updating their "flagship" equipment. They are basically blackmailing me by insisting I sign up for their "whole home" system to get a "newer" DVR, larger capacity etc.  Yes I know I can add an external SATA drive but, that can be hit or miss as to whether it works correctly.

TWC has me by the proverbial short hairs. Uverse isn't available in my area, Not much of a choice there either. SAT is not an option, no LOS.

It isn't even a matter of money, I'm more than willing to pay for content which we enjoy. But when I'm using stone knives and bearskins to receive it....  

It was much better when I was a homeowner. At least I had choices.

I really miss Directv.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: duncantuna on Wednesday Jan 22, 2014, 10:21:11 AM
Talos -

I felt your pain.

As I posed above, I tried to get a new DVR .. I succeeded.

Long story short, my 8300HDC died one night (although worked the next day) and I took the opportunity to swap it at a TWC store.   When they hauled out another 8300HDC, I begged for mercy.

The CSR checked, but no new inventory was to be had.  So she gave me her business card and told me to email her to check later.  So I did.  10 days later, she says she has a Motorola dcx3510-m, and I pick it up.

I think this is brand spanking new.  500Gb drive, and very snappy.  Huge upgrade from the 8300HDC.   I imagine the "-m" might indicate Multi-room, but I do not have that service.

The moral of the story is .. find a friendly CSR, ask them for their email address and with some persistence, you might luck out.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jan 22, 2014, 03:57:39 PM
Quote from: duncantuna;59802Talos -

I felt your pain.

As I posed above, I tried to get a new DVR .. I succeeded.

Long story short, my 8300HDC died one night (although worked the next day) and I took the opportunity to swap it at a TWC store.   When they hauled out another 8300HDC, I begged for mercy.

The CSR checked, but no new inventory was to be had.  So she gave me her business card and told me to email her to check later.  So I did.  10 days later, she says she has a Motorola dcx3510-m, and I pick it up.

I think this is brand spanking new.  500Gb drive, and very snappy.  Huge upgrade from the 8300HDC.   I imagine the "-m" might indicate Multi-room, but I do not have that service.

The moral of the story is .. find a friendly CSR, ask them for their email address and with some persistence, you might luck out.

Thanks for the updates!  I was gonna ask you Duncantuna how the new DVR is working?  However, same old situation applies.  It's exactly what you guys have said.  Either sign up for a Whole House DVR program to get a modern box, or good luck.  And for $150-$300 a month price ranges, it seems like customers should get something better than luck with regards to the video technology.

Consider what's out there with the hardware and software from Direct TV, Dish Network and U-Verse, the "newer boxes" from TWC aren't that new at all.  This is 2014.  Every single TWC customer on the planet,  regardless of level of service,  SHOULD have the following DVR options offered to them as a given:

*********************************************

A minimum of a 500GB to a 1TB hard drive.

A minimum of a four tuner DVR for all DVR boxes.

Searches for both DVR and non-DVR boxes should be able to find anything and everything: Cast Members, keywords, Titles, Themes, the works.

VOD cover art.

An HD guide customizable for smaller screens or for those with SD sets.

The ability to set up wish lists in searches where the DVR can set to auto record shows and series of a customers' interest, with the option to turn that off and just have a reminder option.

**********************************************


If TWC really wants to make these DVR's fly and get video services up to their great phone and Internet Technology, they need to start providing these types of services for all.  Not just Whole Home Subs. Many cable operators are still working with, and giving out, this eight to ten year old technology.  (Charter's I-Guide is reportedly WORSE and goes back ten years on some of the boxes!)

RCN Cable is one smaller company out of a few cities and they have a sliding scale of boxes where you can get non-DVR to a cable company DVR to a Tivo.  Now, I know that Tivo has its  issues, and RCN charges about $20 a month extra for it. but at least RCN has the OPTION to give more modern technology to all.  Look at their box/DVR choices here: (This site is their area  out of Chicago.)

http://www.rcn.com/chicago/digital-cable-tv/equipment

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Saturday Jan 25, 2014, 02:33:34 PM
Bugs Found With This Release:

 DVR Compensation back to Normal after power cycle-On my box, it happened, but the Diags screen did not show that a reboot had actually occurred.  

Text sometimes jumbles together after first "B" search session.  Workaround is to scroll to another area of the screen when this happens.  Possible workaround may be to wait several seconds before beginning the search.

Info Button does not function on Find Shows Screen
Find Shows, "A" button gives show title information now, not just channel numbers. Info button does not work on Find Shows Screen when more information is available.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Jan 26, 2014, 09:53:36 AM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59804Bugs Found With This Release:

 DVR Compensation back to Normal after power cycle-On my box, it happened, but the Diags screen did not show that a reboot had actually occurred.  


In addition to the DVR Compensation going back to normal, I've been having the Power On channel occasionally revert back to 100 (or whatever the default channel is after a reboot).

It happened again this morning, and there wasn't a reboot
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Jan 26, 2014, 02:20:06 PM
Quote from: grenier;59805In addition to the DVR Compensation going back to normal, I've been having the Power On channel occasionally revert back to 100 (or whatever the default channel is after a reboot).

It happened again this morning, and there wasn't a reboot

I think that happened the same time as the DVR Compensation back to normal thing.  Although I can't say for sure if they are yet part of the same cause and effect.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Jan 26, 2014, 09:29:37 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59806I think that happened the same time as the DVR Compensation back to normal thing.  Although I can't say for sure if they are yet part of the same cause and effect.

The DVR Compensation thing has happened independent of the channel thing.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Danno321 on Saturday Feb 08, 2014, 09:10:49 AM
Quote from: duncantuna;59802Talos -

I felt your pain.

As I posed above, I tried to get a new DVR .. I succeeded.

Long story short, my 8300HDC died one night (although worked the next day) and I took the opportunity to swap it at a TWC store.   When they hauled out another 8300HDC, I begged for mercy.

The CSR checked, but no new inventory was to be had.  So she gave me her business card and told me to email her to check later.  So I did.  10 days later, she says she has a Motorola dcx3510-m, and I pick it up.

I think this is brand spanking new.  500Gb drive, and very snappy.  Huge upgrade from the 8300HDC.   I imagine the "-m" might indicate Multi-room, but I do not have that service.

The moral of the story is .. find a friendly CSR, ask them for their email address and with some persistence, you might luck out.

Sounds like a Kafka novel.  I cut the cable.  TWC is evil.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Feb 09, 2014, 11:01:31 AM
My Channel Guide isn't showing anything past this upcoming Thursday, that's irritating.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Monday Feb 10, 2014, 10:55:52 AM
It still hasn't updated. I've had this issue in the past but it's never been this long, it was usually just a day or two delay.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Feb 16, 2014, 09:17:13 AM
All of the channels from 01 - 846 are missing from the Channel Guide lineup. The actual channels are available, they just aren't in the listing. They disappeared sometime yesterday afternoon.

It's weird.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Sunday Feb 16, 2014, 01:48:23 PM
Quote from: grenier;59849All of the channels from 01 - 846 are missing from the Channel Guide lineup. The actual channels are available, they just aren't in the listing. They disappeared sometime yesterday afternoon.

It's weird.

There is an update forthcoming that will fix (supposedly) all the little bugs with this last update.  The star ratings for the movies are also coming back.

Do you mean that the guide shows, "Data Not Available" for the data cells in the Time Grid?

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Feb 16, 2014, 03:42:19 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59850Do you mean that the guide shows, "Data Not Available" for the data cells in the Time Grid?

No, the channels were not showing at all, totally missing. The guide started at 602 (I was wrong before) and ended at 1800.

I figured it out, I feel dumb. My friend was watching TV and she selected "High Definition" on the guide, it filtered out all of the missing channels.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Wednesday Feb 26, 2014, 09:04:04 PM
Is Channel 1001 new? I just noticed it, it's called Portal (on Demand Portal) but it doesn't appear to do anything. It just says to call Customer Care, no mention of a price or what it shows.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Feb 27, 2014, 01:48:09 PM
Quote from: grenier;59857Is Channel 1001 new? I just noticed it, it's called Portal (on Demand Portal) but it doesn't appear to do anything. It just says to call Customer Care, no mention of a price or what it shows.

On the cloud-based boxes, (Cisco, Samsungs, and Motorolas) that channel is going to be a port for all of your VOD settings and more.  I think you are going to be able to manage other box settings through that channel as well.  The SA, HDC's aren't ready for cloud service migration, so they won't get that setting for awhile.

Satch
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Feb 27, 2014, 06:13:28 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59858On the cloud-based boxes, (Cisco, Samsungs, and Motorolas) that channel is going to be a port for all of your VOD settings and more.  I think you are going to be able to manage other box settings through that channel as well.  The SA, HDC's aren't ready for cloud service migration, so they won't get that setting for awhile.

Satch

I also have the On Demand Portal on my SA-8300HDC box (Channel 1001)  Maybe TWC is just going to consolidate On Demand into one channel for ALL boxes.  Will find out.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Mar 19, 2014, 01:24:21 PM
There was a software update on the boxes last night, but I did not notice any changes.  It seemed to be a two-three boot thing, so maybe something's coming.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Wednesday Mar 19, 2014, 08:50:28 PM
I didn't get an update.

My Caller ID on TV had been messed up for weeks, the call log part. It seems to log the calls but it doesn't display them until the box reboots.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Wednesday Mar 19, 2014, 09:11:16 PM
We got the new DVR menu.  It's going to take a while to get used to.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Mar 20, 2014, 12:44:42 PM
My box rebooted last night, I don't see anything new. I was recording a movie when the reboot happened, it showed it was still recording ten hours hours later.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Mar 20, 2014, 02:00:59 PM
Quote from: ddeerrff;59885We got the new DVR menu.  It's going to take a while to get used to.

SA Boxes will still have the regular menu.  Some things (hopefully) fixed:

1.) Original Airdate of episodes should now be correct-it was off a day in the last release.

2.) DVR Compensation now "Sticks." It had been going back to normal

3.) Other small bug fixes.

A bug that still remains is in the old search keyboard, Most video on demand stuff goes to the VOD Portal Channel, Channel 1001, which is not available for SA boxes.  Workaround is to go to VOD with the "A" button, or channels 500, 1000, and 1500 series set and choose a VOD show that way.

On the non-SA boxes, did this upgrade bring the new VOD channel 1001 to life, with VOD searching and cover art?  If not, that's coming.

Satch
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Mar 20, 2014, 04:58:59 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59889SA Boxes will still have the regular menu.  Some things (hopefully) fixed:

1.) Original Airdate of episodes should now be correct-it was off a day in the last release.

2.) DVR Compensation now "Sticks." It had been going back to normal

3.) Other small bug fixes.

A bug that still remains is in the old search keyboard, Most video on demand stuff goes to the VOD Portal Channel, Channel 1001, which is not available for SA boxes.  Workaround is to go to VOD with the "A" button, or channels 500, 1000, and 1500 series set and choose a VOD show that way.

On the non-SA boxes, did this upgrade bring the new VOD channel 1001 to life, with VOD searching and cover art?  If not, that's coming.

Satch

Oh yea,

Star ratings for the movies come back with this update.

Satch
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Friday Mar 21, 2014, 05:42:05 PM
Glitch with the latest update: if I cancel and delete a recording in progress it keeps reappearing as recording. I did it today at Noon and it kept reappearing every few minutes, showing it was recording from Noon to 12:30. It wasn't recording anything, it was hours past the showing. A reboot fixes the problem, it's happened twice already.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Friday Mar 21, 2014, 08:19:35 PM
Quote from: grenier;59896Glitch with the latest update: if I cancel and delete a recording in progress it keeps reappearing as recording. I did it today at Noon and it kept reappearing every few minutes, showing it was recording from Noon to 12:30. It wasn't recording anything, it was hours past the showing. A reboot fixes the problem, it's happened twice already.

Does the record light go off when the time is done?  When it would stop anyway?  And on what box is this?  I can report this to my cable source.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Friday Mar 21, 2014, 08:41:08 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59897Does the record light go off when the time is done?  When it would stop anyway?  And on what box is this?  I can report this to my cable source.

The recording light goes off after I initially cancel the recording, it just says it's recording in the DVR menu. It's a Cisco 8640HDC.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Tuesday Apr 08, 2014, 09:07:12 PM
Had an update last night, I now have the new DVR menu. Seems like a lot more clicks to do things, such as deleting a show or just getting program information. The series manager doesn't give an option to record at a specific time, at least not for previously set up series. It appears you have to delete and reschedule the series if you want to change the recording time.

Also, hitting the B button from the DVR menu used to bring up other showings of the program, it doesn't do that anymore, it just goes to the top of the search page.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Apr 09, 2014, 03:08:20 PM
Quote from: grenier;59915Had an update last night, I now have the new DVR menu. Seems like a lot more clicks to do things, such as deleting a show or just getting program information. The series manager doesn't give an option to record at a specific time, at least not for previously set up series. It appears you have to delete and reschedule the series if you want to change the recording time.

Also, hitting the B button from the DVR menu used to bring up other showings of the program, it doesn't do that anymore, it just goes to the top of the search page.

One reason I am holding on to the SA-8300HDC.  As old as it is, TWC needs an update where the show starts on the show being watched or selected in the grid.  Does the new update force you back to Title Search every time unless you change it?  This is what I heard.  Three clicks are needed to do the same things that you could do in one click.

I still think the best update is to keep it simple so that the keyword search, you type in anything, Title,  Topic, or Person, and it finds it using the old keyboard system.  The only thing I guess that would appeal to me about the update at this time, is the true HD 16x9 guide.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Apr 10, 2014, 08:38:45 AM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59916Does the new update force you back to Title Search every time unless you change it?  

Honestly, I've never done a search other then by title, so I don't know.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Wednesday Apr 23, 2014, 07:21:09 AM
There was a new update done to the 500GB TWC DVR  boxes a few days ago. Now the recorded and scheduled and options are on the top when you hit the list  button on the remote with different graphics. Additionally, the info button on a specific show will come up with a picture of the show being played or recorded, a nice feature.
I don't know if any other cable boxes show this, but the newer cable boxes are showing this now.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Apr 23, 2014, 10:25:02 PM
A poster at AVS had a huge rant about the "update" here,

I know that the "B" search no longer starts on the show being watched or viewed, but are the other things as bad as this, or is there something wrong with his box or signal?  I had suggested a cold reboot to get the blue info bar back:

Jack
QuoteNo "B" search from show description in guide, or show being watched or show in guide, or list,  anything. Always damned sluggish keyboard for search..  That is huge step back.  Cannot turn off search putting up results for every single letter you "type".. so if you have a 14 letter  title, it is going to search 14 times before you are done. That takes time, and it interferes with input process. Totally idiotic interface.

No  "previously watched"  option from list.   If you were watching something far down on list, then go to live TV..  You have to sit there and wait for sluggish list to make it's way down to whatever program you were watching.  That is a huge step backwards, especially since if you go past half-way down list, it seems like it is drawing the entire page again for every click down.  It is another terrible interface design decision. What if you have 10 programs that is 20 folders down on list? You have to navigate all the way down the list, then open a folder, thjen navigate down another long list, just to get to what you were just watching.  There should be a section right on top "previously watched", with a list of things, from newest to oldest, that you just watched. Getting rid of that was plain stupid.

No dates of movies or programs in list descriptions anywhere.  The date in which the thing was made, or released,  not date recorded. Why? Who knows, but that is a big WTFTWC? moment when realized.  Go to guide, the date is there, go to list, the date magically disappears.  Have 10 James Bond flicks you want to watch in order?  Good luck.. You might as well go research on the net because Navigator doesn't think that info is important enough for you to see in the list.  Nope, it scrubs it, or hides it.

Also why the heck is the folder view not an option that can be turned off? There is very little info on that first page which means you have to go down another level deeper into the sluggish interface to get any info.  Why not give us choice to use folders or not?  You could do that on a PC in 1994.  it's a simple list. Let me decide how to display the damned thing.

While fast forwarding/ pausing/ rewinding/ playing, even when DVR compensation is turned completely off, the DVR constantly jumps ahead by 2 or 3 minutes while you are trying to rewind for a few seconds, or pause, then play, or any time really. All of the sudden you are 2 minutes past where you were for absolutely no reason at all. That happens constantly.

Shows constantly not recording with no record at all it didn't record or was ever supposed to record in the "options", then three clicks down to "recording log/conflicts" section.

Constantly not recording shows, then in the recording log it says "channel not available"..  even though channel is available.  Every time that happens and I am watching TV at the time, the channel is definitely there and available, Navigator is just broken.

Constantly not making a buffer on a channel if one other show is recording.  Why? You could have 1 hour buffer in 1998!  WTF.  No rhyme or reason to when it won't buffer a program sometimes.

Why is there no conflict resolution section?  There is a section called "recording log", and under that it says record log and list of conflicts..  BTW this is literally 8 layers deep.  Count the button presses needed to get there.  I count 8 button presses to get there. Ridiculous in itself, but then when you do finally get there, there is only a recording log, but no way to mange any current recording conflicts.  Why did they get rid of recording conflict screen?  How is that a good idea?  Why does it take 8 button presses to get anywhere in this gui? Things shouldn't be buried that deep, there is no reason for it.

Constantly the progress bar is just plain gone. Go to rewind, and there is no blue  bar, no marker for where you are in the show, nothing..  Just a big black empty banner.  Great work TWC.

That's just scratching surface of poor design, performance going backwards.  SARA from 1999 did many things much, much  better.   Navigator is such a joke.  It's in pre-Alpha stage for any serious piece of software.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Friday Apr 25, 2014, 04:24:22 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59921A poster at AVS had a huge rant about the "update" here,

I know that the "B" search no longer starts on the show being watched or viewed, but are the other things as bad as this, or is there something wrong with his box or signal?  I had suggested a cold reboot to get the blue info bar back:

Jack

He might have something wrong with his box or signal, in regards to shows not recording. Other then that, they are pretty spot on with the rant.

I'm moving in a few months and probably won't be going with TWC.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Tuesday Jun 03, 2014, 08:19:15 PM
My box rebooted last night, I don't see anything new.

The search really stinks. I did a search for a particular show that I know airs frequently and the search results only showed three occurrences of the show. I checked the channel guide and there it was, at least three totally different episodes from the search results.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Jun 05, 2014, 10:27:11 AM
Quote from: grenier;59956My box rebooted last night, I don't see anything new.

The search really stinks. I did a search for a particular show that I know airs frequently and the search results only showed three occurrences of the show. I checked the channel guide and there it was, at least three totally different episodes from the search results.

My box has rebooted the last two nights between I think 1-3am.  Probably a prep for a new feature or software patch.  I still have the SA-8300HC.  Considering what I have heard about the new search, I never thought I would say this, but it seems the old one was better.  In the sense of being easier to use.

I would like to see the HD guide, but that appears to be the only visible improvement.

Satch
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Talos4 on Thursday Jun 05, 2014, 11:51:42 AM
My SA 8300 HDC was still rebooting at 5:15 this morning. I didn't have time to see what if anything was updated or added.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Friday Jun 06, 2014, 02:55:01 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59958My box has rebooted the last two nights between I think 1-3am.  Probably a prep for a new feature or software patch.  I still have the SA-8300HC.  Considering what I have heard about the new search, I never thought I would say this, but it seems the old one was better.  In the sense of being easier to use.

My box rebooted two night in a row also.

I don't care for the new search. I also liked it when the B button brought up other instances of the currently viewed program.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Saturday Jun 07, 2014, 03:23:46 PM
Since the last reboot, my box has been sluggish at times. Pressing the B button doesn't bring up the search, pressing the Guide button sometimes works.

How can the search be unavailable? They really screwed something up.
Title: Grid stuck
Post by: gparris on Sunday Jun 08, 2014, 12:01:43 AM
I have the home system and the grid is stuck. You hit the guide button and nothing works and you cannot get out of it. Rebooting does not work. This is awful. The remote cannot get you out of it. WTF?
Now it started working at least on one DVR. Are TWC's programmers working late to fix that B button? You still cannot do a search for anything yet. You are all correct - the old program let you use the B button to show repeat and future shows  -but no more.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Sunday Jun 08, 2014, 09:18:25 AM
Is the Search function totally not working for you too? I press the B button and there's a delay of maybe twenty seconds before the unavailable message pops up.

I noticed the cover art for recorded shows isn't there anymore either.

I'm relieved to know it's not just me having these issues.

I've been in contact with someone at the TWC Direct forums. He sent an update to my box, it rebooted and the search still doesn't work. His suggestion? Take the box in and swap it out. I don't think it's the box, the problem didn't start until one of the reboots overnight. I'm hoping it'll resolve itself, like the hard drive space issue awhile back.

Update:

How about that, the Search started working again this afternoon. I'll never understand why TWC is so hesitant to admit there might be an issue on their end and that the first thing they always suggest is swapping out the box. Is it ever a box issue?

Back when I was having signal issues, if I would have listened to every tech that came here, I would have gone through six boxes, none of which would have resolved my problem. Six different techs, that's how many it took before a competent one came and figured out my problem.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Tuesday Jun 10, 2014, 08:52:12 AM
I give up, it's not working this morning. :bang:
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: gparris on Tuesday Jun 10, 2014, 12:49:44 PM
Not working either.  I wonder how bad it's going to be once Charter gets us.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Jun 11, 2014, 04:31:22 PM
Quote from: gparris;59968Not working either.  I wonder how bad it's going to be once Charter gets us.

Wouldn't worry about something that's not going to happen, if at all, for another five years.  Just names on the buildings, bills, and trucks, and the guide logo will be the only changes you will see.  The buy-out could be easily shut down.

Did you call in to report the search issue?  No problems with the legacy SA-8300HDC here.  What happens when you try a search?  

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Wednesday Jun 11, 2014, 05:22:24 PM
Quote from: Jack 1000;59970Did you call in to report the search issue?  No problems with the legacy SA-8300HDC here.  What happens when you try a search?  

I didn't call in to report the search issue. I know how that call would go, they'd reboot the box, that wouldn't work and then they'd schedule a tech. The tech would come out an want to swap out the box. I don't really have the time or the patience to go through the frustration of dealing with that again. Especially when I know it's not a box issue. I even told the person at the TWC direct forums that others were having the same issue, it didn't matter, he suggested a box swap.  

My search is working now. What was happening was, I'd press the B button and there'd be a delay of twenty seconds or so before either the unavailable message popped up or nothing at all would happen.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Aug 06, 2014, 07:02:38 AM
Might have been a mild update last night,

Powered on TV and box to a blank screen and was forced to cold reboot to get my cable TV back.  Anybody else?  First reboot in many, many months.

I think they are working on something.  Universal Line Up is coming.

I really hope you guys with the modern boxes get the B search button back where it started the search on the show being watched or in the Time Grid.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Tuesday Nov 11, 2014, 01:20:48 PM
There was a software update last night:

Legacy boxes (SA-8300HDC) got some small menu changes, but the newer boxes have more things added.  Some divisions reported a speed slowdown with this update, but on my SA-8300HDC, I have not noticed a speed change.

Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: ddeerrff on Tuesday Nov 11, 2014, 07:13:17 PM
Noticed the guide change and the indication of what is set to record.  Haven't played with anything else yet (my wife controls the TV most of the day :)) so can't comment on any change in speed or feel.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: grenier on Thursday Nov 13, 2014, 01:37:05 PM
It was really sluggish when I first turned on the box but it's back to normal now.
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Nov 13, 2014, 02:51:22 PM
This is what's different for those still with an SA-8300HDC for ODN 7.3

1.) A small dot appears next to a recorded show in the classic DVR Show List and the Time Grid.
2.) Responses seem to be faster in searching.
3.) Still "Search by Title" only for the keyboard, but the B button category search has moved way off to the left, as if perhaps something might be coming in the next release or by the time we get to ODN 7.5 or even an ODN 8.0.
4.) No Truncation of Categories. Fonts now say the full name of the type of category search listed above the search page.
5.) VOD search is now replaced with a "Press Info to View" in show titles. A spinning circle with dots now replaces the horizontal square lines. VOD seems to be more reliable. "Knock on Wood."
6.) Some divisions do not have the expanded search or I don't think the new DVR List even with the modern boxes. I think Nebraska is one of them.
7.) Box defaults to 480p on power off.
8.) Guide Filtering now places the options (Favorites, High Definition, Subscribed, All inside of a graphic box.)
9.) Guide Filtering also shows the name of the filter selected even if All channels (the default) is used.
10.) Simple, no frills experience. BUT it works, and although there is sometimes a slight "Please Wait" between Category Search Horizontal Scrolling, it's never intolerable.

*What I have heard from other divisions with the newer boxes and where expanded search has been implemented.

   
Jack
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Friday Nov 21, 2014, 09:23:59 PM
Navigator Updates Coming:

I asked someone at TWC if they could share what developments are in store for the guide.  This is what I was told:

Boxes that have the Advanced Search-"The B button is going to be able to take you to the show being watched or selected in the Time Grid in the next release!"  He said this feature will  have a toggle option, (on/off?) He did not go into specifics there.

Boxes with advanced search are going to have the  filters dropped-  The default  for the keyboard will be "All". This means that whatever you type into the keyboard, if it's in the system, it should be able to find it

The Advanced Search is still being tested for legacy boxes-He said it could be several months before they would know if it would be part of this next release.

The feedback for the new folder lists in DVR Manager-
Has been so positive that TWC is thinking of bringing it to legacy boxes.  This is largely because customers like to be able to do multiple deletes and on the classic boxes you have to delete each show or series one by one.  I said some customers found the folder management harder to use, and he said that they are working on making that function easier.

Satch
Title: TWC Navigator/Box Update
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Sep 17, 2015, 10:08:27 AM
TWC Guide Update For Modern (Non SA)-Boxes

Several updates to the guide last night notably the following:
Critique: Some search results are still not holding on the Keyboard.  For example, I can still only find live Boxing Shows using the STB keyboard on Sunday through Tuesday of any week.  See this thread for details:

http://www.milwaukeehdtv.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=8 (http://www.milwaukeehdtv.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=8)

Jack
Title: Re: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: Jack 1000 on Thursday Mar 30, 2017, 03:10:42 PM
Guys,

Wisconsin got a Navigator Guide software update on the ADSG (advanced boxes) last night.  Versions are:

Arris Models
Cisco/Technicolor Models
Samsung Models

Some cool features

A Quick Access Menu that allows you access to most commonly used DVR settings- This turns on with the box.  (Some customers would like this to have a toggle button to be turned off in settings.)

The ability to reboot your box in Settings without having to unplug it.

Expanded Searching and Filtering Options for Shows.

A Kids channel Portal

For more information about the new guide, go here:

https://www.timewarnercable.com/en/tv/features/new-guide.html

Satch
Title: Re: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: ddeerrff on Thursday Mar 30, 2017, 03:58:27 PM
Hey Jack.  Thought this forum was dead long ago.  Surprised to get the posting notification.

I'm on vacation, sounds like I will have at least a small learning curve when I get home. 

Derf
Title: Re: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: skier8734 on Wednesday Apr 05, 2017, 07:34:50 PM
For me the new guide is the slowest crappiest guide they've come out with yet.  Everything takes 10x longer than it did before and it is really hard to get the dvr fast forward to stop in the right place.
Title: Re: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: Jack 1000 on Wednesday Apr 05, 2017, 11:52:20 PM
Quote from: skier8734 on Wednesday Apr 05, 2017, 07:34:50 PM
For me the new guide is the slowest crappiest guide they've come out with yet.  Everything takes 10x longer than it did before and it is really hard to get the dvr fast forward to stop in the right place.

What's up Skier?

What's the make and model of your box?  I haven't had any slowdowns that I have noticed.  However, I have had issues with the Search system occasionally coming up with "Not available.  Try again later."  Than, a few moments later it works.

As for getting the DVR to stop in the right place.  Check DVR Compensation in settings.  This controls the amount of jump back when you are fast-forwarding-rewinding your shows and you want the DVR to stop at a certain place.  I have mine set for "Less."  I believe that options are "More", "Less", "Normal" and "Off."  If you turn off the DVR Compensation, the DVR should (knock on wood.) stop at the place where you want.

Jack
Title: Re: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: skier8734 on Friday Apr 07, 2017, 08:28:11 PM
I have a Samsung H3270.  The compensation settings are set just the software is to slow to respond to the remote click.  Also, when I try to watch something from the dvr especially if I'm just starting program late the box spends 20-30 seconds "updating show settings" and on a few occasions will flat out tell me my recording isn't available right now.
Title: Re: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: ddeerrff on Friday Apr 07, 2017, 09:26:14 PM
There was some discussion about moving the record function from the box to 'the cloud'.  I too have noticed the new messages when starting a playback and it may be that the recording is no longer local. 

Title: Re: TWC Navigator/Box Updates
Post by: skier8734 on Saturday Apr 08, 2017, 01:45:15 PM
Possible but I'd think that if it were on the cloud it wouldn't show % of the hard drive used anymore.