Comcast pulls 1080i Free QAM channels

[lesliesfbay]

Over Superbowl weekend, I noticed that Comcast pulled the plug on 1080i digital broadcasts from their free QAM selection. I'm on the basic TV plan from them (roughly $20 a month). We used to get about 60 unencrypted QAM channels. But now I dont even get my local primetime shows in 1080i. NBC/CBS/ABC all come in at 480i. Is that happening with anyone else? Have you rented an HD box from them instead? That's what overseas Comcast tech support told me to do.

So annoyed, that I'm thinking about switching back to OTA.

 

[lesliesfbay]

it is still true. They must provide Clear QAM for local channels. What I am finding is that I need to rescan every so often as they shuffle their QAM packet types or broadcast lineups. Good luck getting your HTPC to work!

So just to be clear, I am getting 1080i clear QAM channels now, and have been for many months since this original posting.

So the original problem seems to be fixed.

 

[fazers_on_stun]

^ I have seen the exact same thing with Comcrash here in the Washington DC area. About once a month or so, have to rescan all the digital channels as Comcast moves them around, usually right before something in HD that I wanna watch 😛 - the Lost finale, Superbowl, etc...

 

[juergen_d]

I have lost a few of my local HD channels as well. I complained and was also told to get the "free adapter box". So my my home theater pc with QAM tuners is now worthless. I can no longer record my local HD channels.

I thought it was fcc law that they must provide the all the available local digital channels free and clear???

Sacramento CA

I wonder if two 2-way coaxial splitters (combiners) would do the trick? Split the signal as it comes out of the wall and combine it again behind the digital adapter box. Tune the TV to channel 3/4 for the box or to any other channel, including clear QAM, using the direct to wall connection.

Juergen

 

[lesliesfbay]

BTW, what kind of TV Tuner cards are you using? Try checking with the manufacturer about getting ClearQAM broadcasts from Comcast.

 

[buxelbow]

I'm in Virginia and I agree with lesliesfbay. I have 3 QAM tuner TVs, all directly connected to the wall, and still receive all channels (HD & SD) without any adapters or digital boxes.

However, Comcast does change the channels occasionally, for whatever reason (maybe to see how many people call and complain so they can sell them something). Merely rescanning rectifies the issue. It is odd though they changed the channels this week, 10 days before the SB.

 

[lesliesfbay]

Best answer selected by lesliesfbay.

 

[Mousemonkey]

This topic has been closed by Mousemonkey