Comments on: FiOS TV Review – Update

By: Daryl

Daryl — Thu, 12 Feb 2009 04:03:35 +0000

Alan,

I’m interested in the Windows MCE setup as you have stated. Which windows OS are you using? I’m using Vista Home Premium. I’ve also got an Xbox360 on the network but I need to hardwire it for better data throughput. I’ve used Hauppage products in the past and have been happy with them; which one are you using? When you watch your recorded TV shows back, are you watching them on your computer monitor or on a TV connected to the PC?

Sorry for so many questions.

P.S. I currently have FiOS TV and Internet and have been VERY happy with it. I was actually apart of the initial trial area. We have the HD DVR and another VCR but I think the VCR is on its last leg and about to give up the ghost. I’d rather purchase some PC parts instead of paying the monthly fees to record TV. I never did buy into the Tivo phenominon… I’m too cheap.

By: mike

mike — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 17:03:07 +0000

I’m going to be getting Fios Tv Essentials with the triple play. Will I be getting any channels from channel 60-200? They’re the expanded local channels.

By: Bill

Bill — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 14:00:10 +0000

I like your site. The reason the old copper lines work when the power is out is that the voltage comes from the CO (Central Office). Most of the phone companies have big generators, some are actually jet engines to power up the equipment in case of power outage. On the FIOS network the light enters the Optical Network terminal (ONT) and is converted to phone, internet, and tv by the terminal which requires power. The back up battery provides enough power to provide a phone in case of power loss. That is if you have a corded (non electrically powered phone ie cordless) phone.

By: Tom Jones

Tom Jones — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 17:01:16 +0000

I recently switched to Verizon FIOS with a HD DVR. However, I am a James Bond collector and I have an extensive collection of interviews with the Bond actors, etc. recorded from TV on VHS. I purchased a DVR/VHS recorder to transfer VHS to DVD. I assumed that I could record onto DVD from TV but have been unable to do this. Is this possible with Verizon FIOS? Verizon refueses to help. Are there companies that specialize in hooking up TV/Cable/DVRs, since I am not very good at this and am very frustrated?

By: Miss Mac

Miss Mac — Mon, 20 Oct 2008 13:35:39 +0000

To answer a few questions on this forum: Verizon is going to an all digital signal by the end of the year-most markets have already converted. The FREE set top box for channels below 49, is a DCT 700. It is important, however, to understand this box ONLY works on an active FIOS connection. It will NOT work stand alone or for over-air broadcasts. When installed, it becomes a part of your FIOS home network to carry a FIOS signal. It should NOT be confused with the converters being subsidized by the government program/sold at local retailers. Routers are required in a FIOS installation to carry Pay Per View, Video On Demand, the Interactive Media Guide, and the tv listings info. If it is also going to be used for internet, a webkey is part of the installation to insure internet security. A seperate router purchase by the customer with it’s own webkey can interfere with the FIOS network, and is NOT SUPPORTED by FIOS technicians because it is NOT OURS. Some customers are deciding to ditch our little router and go their own way…only to discover they cannot get the information to go through THEIR router. Verizon’s router must be in place to support the video network, even if someone chooses to establish a wireless network or use their own router in their home. VCR’s are analog devices. They will not record HD with any quality. It usually results in a black tape or snowy distortion. HDTV’s usually require an upgrade to a Progressive Scan DVD player (like Blue-Ray). Choosing to embrace the HD/digital technology requires moving away from the older, more familiar analog technology. Consumers need to do more homework before making purchases of new technologies…they all have some limitations when paired with a service provider’s equipment. If the equipment is owned by you, then it is your responsibility to know how to operate it and set it up…not your provider’s.

By: Jeannie

Jeannie — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:47:41 +0000

I am thinking of going FIOS and currently have cable, and broadband internet with Comcast. My phone service I use is through Vonage and I only pay 30.00 a month. I was told I could no longer use Vonage if I get FIOS is this true? Verizon charges more for their phone service and I’d rather stay with Vonage.

By: robert popper

robert popper — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 00:52:50 +0000

I have the triple play package and would like to transfer recorded programs to dvd. Is this possible?

By: alan

alan — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 22:35:58 +0000

Great Thread.
I currently have split the cable before it hits the cable modem and have it hooked up to a Hauppage wintv box(analog tuner). This, plus windows MCE gives me TIVO for free.
Will I be able to do the same thing if I get fios tv and internet?

By: Duane

Duane — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 19:27:26 +0000

rosalie, Still no PIP.

John, the reason for the DTV transition is to free up space for more and better programming. Analog takes up much more compared to digital signals. Also, it is my understanding that at least the FiOS local channel set is viewable with a digital QAM tuner (no STB required).

Phil, the router is installed with FiOS TV because its used to download guide data (seamlessly). You could keep high speed internet from another provider, but not Verizon DSL. DSL is a copper technology, and I do not believe Verizon is allowing service from both copper and fiber simultaneously at a single location.

By: Phil

Phil — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 15:52:54 +0000

I am considering switching from my cable provider to FIOS but want to keep my hispeed internet.
Why do they need to install a router if I just want tv?