811 - P281 Software Release Notes

[Mark Lamutt]

Straight from Dish Network, and brought to you by DBSTalk, here are the release notes for P281 for the 811 receiver:

P281 does have the HD EPG OTA guide data. Not every DMA is supported yet. The call centers are set up to take reports of guide data problems - incorrect data, etc.

The release also supports the upcoming Election ITV application (like the Olympics one but with Election coverage).

Highlights of the bug fixes:

A fix to reduce some instances of macroblocking on HD channels.

Fixes for timers firing from standby

Fixes for "recall" to / from OTA channels

[Mark Lamutt]

Regarding the guide data - if you see data problems, please call the 1-800-333-DISH number and report the errors. Also, I do have word that more DMA coverage will be available in the near future.

[Scott Greczkowski]

Mark I was also told that the OTA Guide data was a Beta rollout, not all areas will see guide data, but if there are no problem reports things will be reamped up quickly.

This is exciting. :) (Although the 811 was supposed to have OTA guide data when it was released.)

[Jason Nipp]

P281 is spooling to phase 1.

Mark, any word on P282 and P283?

[BFG]

I would be in phase 1, but not near my 811 ;( might have to go home and check :)

So I wonder how it works, is it automatic, or do you have to put in your zip code somewhere. since the receiver already knows your zip code it might be automatic..

[Bobby94928]

It's automatic. I downloaded 281 and the guide data was there without doing anything. I am in the SF Bay Area so i guess I'm one of the testing grounds. One feature that I find really cool is that the data goes out the whole 46 hours.

One more thing, the digital channels are locking faster as well.

[BFG]

do they have the guides for stations with subchannels, like pbs?

[Jason Nipp]

I would be in phase 1, but not near my 811 ;( might have to go home and check :)

So I wonder how it works, is it automatic, or do you have to put in your zip code somewhere. since the receiver already knows your zip code it might be automatic..

At one point Darkman had posted the R-ID #'s in stream for a previous 301 update...several people came down on him for doing this...but anyone that can watch and decode the PID info should be able to see the R-IDnumbers in spool.

[BFG]

well im in batch LADD so those folks should have it

[c_caz]

The OTA guide works in the Twin Cities, MN. It looks like only the major networks get guide data, CBS, ABC, FOX, NBC, WB. With the rest including PBS and PBS HD and some of the 02 stations not. I really wish PBS and the PBS HD feed had it.

OTA channel recall works pefect as well and I haven't see macro-blocking in HD since I received the upgrade. Short term answer is a thumbs up.

[bavaria72]

c_caz, are the OTA channels locking faster like Bobby94928 reported??

[c_caz]

For the most part yes. I still have one channel that takes 5 or more seconds to lock and some times gives the lost message briefly, then locks at 88%. It still behaves the same. I'm guessing that's a mult-path issue though.

Time to go monkey with the antenna and see if I can get rid of that.

[Scott Greczkowski]

I am receiving reports that the OTA guides DO include the Subchannels!

If this is indeed true, the 811 team deservers some huge praise. :D

[Bobby94928]

I am seeing data on some of the subchannels, like PBS. ABC just shows "local digital" for its -2 channel which is their 24/7 news channel. Our local Independent, KRON, is showing guide data for its -1 channel but not on its -2 channel which is HD-Net Lite. It appears that PBS is the only one with data for this area beyond the first channel. Most of our -2 channels are mirrors of the -1 channel.

[jsanders]

Does anyone know at this point which markets have guide being transmitted??

[citico]

I'm in the Knoxville,TN area and the guide data is working here. They also got rid of that stupid box when listening to Sirius radio or Dish Audio channels.

[garypen]

Let's not overlook the other fixes in this release: The OTA channel recall may have been minor. But,the timer firing bug was a pretty big deal. Kudos!

Now, it's on to "acquiring signal", "downloading guide", "lost audio/video", and "lockups", which all seem to be related when going to the guiide or changing channels from OTA. That's a major group.

And, the stop-motion effect in HD, as well as DD5.1 incompatibility with some audio receivers have some people annoyed, too.

[Spartacus]

I can confirm Los Angeles is one of the markets receiving the the OTA guide data.

Most of my local channels now have guide data, with the exception of KCOP (local UPN affiliate). The UPN station never worked right; it's always sat at the 66.1 position instead of it's correct location at 13.1. I bet that has something to do with it not receiving the guide data.

[Bobby94928]

I just got the BSOD going from a digital OTA to channel 9420.... Arrrgggghhhhh!!!

[BFG]

BSOD? you mean Searching for sat?

also - can you directly enter a channel not on your favorites list?

[Bobby94928]

BSOD=Black Screen of Death

What happens is that you go from an OTA digital channel to a satellite channel and you get the channel with no picture or sound. When you hit "info" you see what is supposed to be on but there's nothing there. You change channels to anything else and it's the same.

I am now able to directly enter and go to a channel that is not on my favorites list.

[BFG]

Ahh that's the BSOD. I've gotten that, luckily only once, although now I've probably cursed myself.

Have you ever gotten an OTA channel to lock, but then no picture or sound comes in?

[bavaria72]

I get the picture to lock but no sound all of the time. I have to go up or down one channel and then the sounds comes back (DD).

[Bobby94928]

Ahh that's the BSOD. I've gotten that, luckily only once, although now I've probably cursed myself.

Have you ever gotten an OTA channel to lock, but then no picture or sound comes in?

Yes, but it only seems temporary. I'll go back later and all is fine. This only happens on independent channels for me. My guess is that they are sending a stream out but are not sending a picture or sound.

[Ron Barry]

Let's not overlook the other fixes in this release: The OTA channel recall may have been minor. But,the timer firing bug was a pretty big deal. Kudos!

Now, it's on to "acquiring signal", "downloading guide", "lost audio/video", and "lockups", which all seem to be related when going to the guiide or changing channels from OTA. That's a major group.

And, the stop-motion effect in HD, as well as DD5.1 incompatibility with some audio receivers have some people annoyed, too.

I agreel there Gary... I started a thread for reports of those issues. It is possible that some of these might be fixed on not documented on the release notes. One can hope. I would not put a lot of hope on the Acquiring signal issue.

[Ron Barry]

The BSOD was something that seemed to be introduced with the last software revision. I have seen it about 6 times since the update. Once you get this you have to reboot. I would not consider temporary loss of picture to fall into this catagory. I think I have seen one report that this still occurs, but I am not sure. My guess is it will be a few days before we get a feel for this one and the acquiring signal one. Well atleast a few hours. ;)

[garypen]

One thing I've never had is the BSOD. But, as I've said before, I don't use the 811 all that much. That may change as the SW improves. (It looks like they've finally gotten serious with this sh*t.)
OTOH, I've gotten so used to DVR features, that I hate not using the 721. I'll still probably reserve the 811 for HD events.

[rocatman]

My 811 took the v.281 upgrade and I now have guide data for my OTA HD channels. One thing I did notice is that my guide now has my SD locals in the 8500 range of the guide in red since I do not subscribe to them. I think they may be tying the SD OTA local guide data to the HD locals like I suggested in this forum several months ago. Another thing I noticed was that the local channels that are on the wing satellite, in this case 61.5 do not have data. I only have a D500 installed, I do not have my D300 up for 61.5. Is anybody who has a wing satellite with SD locals on the wings getting HD local guide data for those channels? Is anybody who has their SD locals at 105 or 121 getting the HD locals guide data?

[BFG]

all the local guides come from a database on 110, they're not linked to the dish locals

[garypen]

Well....My 811 is getting stuck during the download, just like with 2.80. I guess I'll try the default settings restore routine again, and have to redo my personal settings. I wonder if the channel locks stay after a reset? If so, it should be OK, as I don't use favorites anymore.

Speaking of favorites, has anybody noticed if 2.81 has fixed the limit?

[BFG]

someone said yes

[rocatman]

Speaking of favorites, has anybody noticed if 2.81 has fixed the limit?

2.81 does not fix the limit on favorites for me.

[kstevens]

Well, I'm getting OTA guide date for the 3 networks (Augusta Georgia), but not for Fox. Interesting enough, with this latest update, I'm getting higher signals on all 4 digital channels (in the upper 70's to lower 80s).

Ken

[bavaria72]

Still have not received the download. Does any one have E* rollout priority? Is it based on region or by Zip code (probably the easiest)? I also wonder how many 811's are out there these days.

[landcruiser00]

I can confirm the OTA guide for Denver. PBS is on the guide also.

[Larry]

OTA guide is available in the Tampa area. The 4 major networks are available but neither of the PBS stations have info available. I am also receiving WMOR-32 (an independent) info in the guide.

[garypen]

Well....the downloading is getting stuck at 3 bars, just like it did for 2.80. This time, however, nothing I try gets it to work. I've hard and soft rebooted numerous times, done switch checks, and reset to factory defaults through the menu.

Has anybody alse had this problem?

Does anybody know how to completely reset the 811 aka "memory dump"? There must be something causing this hiccup, and purging everything from the memory would probably get rid of it.

[Bobby94928]

Gary,

I've sent you a PM....

[garypen]

Thanks. I tried the memory dump. I got to the memory screen, hit "stop" and soft-rebooted. I do not know if it actually dumped. It did it's standard acquiring signal and downloading guide routine when it started, the same as any soft reboot.

I kept the TV on, and stayed in the room this time. The software download progress bar did get almost to the top. But, at about 90%, it vanished, started over, and got stuck at 3 bars again. For all I know this is what it has been doing all along, because I have seen it go past 3 bars on a number of attempts, left the room, and returned to find it stuck at 3 bars again.

For 2.80, a number of people said they were also having a problem like that. I wonder if we'll see the same sort of thing this time around?

[James Long]

Still have not received the download. Does any one have E* rollout priority? Is it based on region or by Zip code (probably the easiest)? I also wonder how many 811's are out there these days.Software upgrades are done based on the serial number of the receiver. In essence, E* tells the receivers through the stream that receivers 1000-1099 get P281 and receivers 1100-9999 get P280. If your receiver is in the P281 group you can get the new software. (If you have "without my permission" selected, you will get it - if not your box will ask you.) They CAN get as specific as a single serial number, and can have multiple ranges for the same software.

As far as the actual data used for HD OTA guides, that's being done by market. It would be interesting to see if the data includes tuning information (frequency and subchannel) which would account for the quicker aquisition being reported.

JL

[leestoo]

I had the three bars problem. After doing two switch checks and waiting two hours I got it to work.

[BFG]

I've never had to mess with the box when updates come. I leave the box off and when I turn it on the new update is there...

[tonyp56]

I've had my 811 since 3-01-04 and I've always been among the first to get Dish's newest software releases. (the day that they release the software, there's even been a couple of times I got the software before they posted it on their website) Anyways, I've put my 811 into stand-by and it will not attempt to download the SW.

Gary, I had problems DL 2.80, it was five days after the release before I was able to get it downloaded. And now my 811 isn't even trying to DL the newest SW when it has always been one of the first to DL their SW, I wonder if perhaps they (Dish) are changing their DL range! What I mean is this, perhaps the reason why I and a lot of other people were unable to download 2.80 for several days even though our receivers were trying is because Dish was in the middle of switching things around. And yes I remember you couldn't DL 2.80 for several days too, but perhaps they didn't completely set your receiver not to start the download. It just seems strange to me that everyone here is talking about DL 2.81, but my receiver isn't even trying, when it has always been one of the first to get the DL. On the other hand it could be that this time they are releasing 2.81 regionally instead of based on receiver ID #'s. I don't know. Just a thought!

[garypen]

That's the way it was for me too...until 2.80.

After two memory dump procedures (the first one may not have taken), my 811 finally took the update. The OTA epg info is nice. But, with the exception of the PBS sub-channels, the guide only shows info for the main "01" channel, exactly mirroring the Dish local info.

It seems that they've simply mirrored the 01 from the "00", an easy solution as most stations undoubtedly mirror the analog programming to the 01 channel. I was hoping the Gemstar deal would provide detailed info for all channels. Perhaps that is the next step. (Too bad they didn't strike a deal with DecisionMark. The TitanTV guide info is awesome.)

[James Long]

The OTA epg info is nice. But, with the exception of the PBS sub-channels, the guide only shows info for the main "01" channel, exactly mirroring the Dish local info.

It seems that they've simply mirrored the 01 from the "00", an easy solution as most stations undoubtedly mirror the analog programming to the 01 channel.My area is the opposite. "34.1" is the PBS National HD feed with a corner logo being the only local content. "34.2" is the local PBS mix, a simulcast of "34.0" NTSC. The DT signal is broadcast 24/7 with "34.2" being colorbars when the NTSC is off air. Of course, my market is so far down that it would not be part of the 811 tests. :)

JL

[garypen]

I'm not sure what you mean by opposite. My comment had nothing to do with the arrangement of sub channels on PBS. I only meant that the new OTA guide info is only for the 01 channels of all my local area digitals, except for PBS, which shows info for all five PBS subchannels for KQED and two out of three for KCSM. (KTEH only has one digital channel.)

It seems that we're probably all in the testing phase, regardless of market size. :)

[James Long]

I missed that "except". The opposite part refers to the habit to put HD on .1 and (if any) the simulcast NTSC SD on .2 (if they have one) - of course the major networks have the same program on .1 and .2 with the only difference being HD vs SD on selected shows.

Actually, only one network station in my particular market (two if you count PBS) has a SD .2 simulcast. The rest of the network stations upconvert SD and pass HD on the .1 channel, and one uses the .2 for a UPN SD feed.

JL

[masterdeals]

I am in the Lansing MI market and the download is not happening as of yet, yes the receiver is off. Is there anyway to force download? I tried the new features option in the setup and it said that nothing was available?

Is it only available to select receivers for a while? How long is it normally?

[jsanders]

It seems that we're probably all in the testing phase, regardless of market size. :)


I hope you get all of that testing stuff figured out by the time they put the OTA guide code into a 921 release. We've had a full sahre of testing already! :lol:

[garypen]

I missed that "except". The opposite part refers to the habit to put HD on .1 and (if any) the simulcast NTSC SD on .2 (if they have one) - of course the major networks have the same program on .1 and .2 with the only difference being HD vs SD on selected shows.

Actually, only one network station in my particular market (two if you count PBS) has a SD .2 simulcast. The rest of the network stations upconvert SD and pass HD on the .1 channel, and one uses the .2 for a UPN SD feed.

JLIronically, KQED, the only one of the three local PBS stations with an HD broadcast (as far as I know), doesn't have a simulcast of their analog channel! .1 is HD after 8pm, and off-air until 8pm. .2-.5 are various PBS themes, Encore, World, Life, and Kids until 8pm, when HD takes the bandwidth.

[James Long]

Ironically, KQED, the only one of the three local PBS stations with an HD broadcast (as far as I know), doesn't have a simulcast of their analog channel! .1 is HD after 8pm, and off-air until 8pm. .2-.5 are various PBS themes, Encore, World, Life, and Kids until 8pm, when HD takes the bandwidth.Based on your report, KQED is violating FCC rules. At this point in time (since Apr 1 2004), one channel of the ATSC feed must be free reception and mirror the NTSC feed at least 75% of the time. Next April 1st DTs MUST simulcast 100% of the time.

The whole purpose of giving broadcasters DT spectrum is to have them broadcast their NTSC signals in ATSC. NOT to provide entirely separate programs.

JL

[garypen]

That is an excellent rule. For once, the FCC makes a good decision. (Must have been pre-Michael Powell.)

KQED might be skirting the law by providing the programming on "Encore", even if doesn't exactly mirror the analog broadcast.

[Bobby94928]

Something in the back of my head says that PBS has different rules than regular broadcasters. PBS is a non-profit corporation. I'm not so sure that they can't do just what they are doing, legally.....

[Jason Nipp]

That's the way it was for me too...until 2.80.

After two memory dump procedures (the first one may not have taken), my 811 finally took the update. The OTA epg info is nice. But, with the exception of the PBS sub-channels, the guide only shows info for the main "01" channel, exactly mirroring the Dish local info.

It seems that they've simply mirrored the 01 from the "00", an easy solution as most stations undoubtedly mirror the analog programming to the 01 channel. I was hoping the Gemstar deal would provide detailed info for all channels. Perhaps that is the next step. (Too bad they didn't strike a deal with DecisionMark. The TitanTV guide info is awesome.)

Gary, same situtuation here, for the second time as well. Doing a dump worked for you?

Jason

[James Long]

Something in the back of my head says that PBS has different rules than regular broadcasters. PBS is a non-profit corporation. I'm not so sure that they can't do just what they are doing, legally.....My local PBS is following that rule, and makes a point of stating that rule in the announcements that say they are following the rule.

For example, in April when they announced that they would be broadcasting in ATSC more hours they said it was because of the 75% simulcast rule. They were broadcasting afternoons only and killing the feed at midnight regardless of what the NTSC feed was doing. Now they have taken the next step and although it is not required until next April they are simulcasting 100% of the NTSC on one of their DT channels. Plus they are leaving the power on 24/7.

I don't recall seeing an exclusion for PBS or any other non-profit when reading the 75% mirror rules.

JL

[garypen]

Doing a dump worked for you?

JasonIt relaxed me enough to figure out how to get the download to take.

[Visitor]

The BSOD was something that seemed to be introduced with the last software revision. I have seen it about 6 times since the update. Once you get this you have to reboot.

I've gotten the BSOD a number of times, never had to reboot to fix it. I just go to another channel, either manually or through the EPG, and things return to normal. There have been cases when I've had to go through this procedure more than once, but it always works.

[rangersjay99]

Still no download here in Baltimore....

Anyone in this area seeing the guide info for Baltimore locals?

Jay

[Jerry G]

I've gotten the BSOD a number of times, never had to reboot to fix it. I just go to another channel, either manually or through the EPG, and things return to normal. There have been cases when I've had to go through this procedure more than once, but it always works.

That's not the BSOD. That's the momentary easily fixable black screen. The death part requires a 5 minutes wait while the 811 is rebooted.

[luckycat]

I'm in the Metro Detroit area, have P281 and voila now have digital OTA guide information. Subchannels are listed, but looks like only the 1st one has guide info...the subchannels here just have local dopler weather and other weird things, so they perhaps aren't including subchannel text beyond their "primary" subchannel.

Only channel that doesn't seem to be working is the local PBS, WTVS.

This is a great enhancement.

[Ron Barry]

I've gotten the BSOD a number of times, never had to reboot to fix it. I just go to another channel, either manually or through the EPG, and things return to normal. There have been cases when I've had to go through this procedure more than once, but it always works.

This is a known bug. There have been a lot of reports and switching channels does not get things working again.

[Ron Barry]

That's not the BSOD. That's the momentary easily fixable black screen. The death part requires a 5 minutes wait while the 811 is rebooted.

Thank goodness the 811 stays away from the light.

[garypen]

WJD made a joke, everybody!

[Jason Nipp]

It relaxed me enough to figure out how to get the download to take.

Did you at least wash your hands when you were done? :grin:

[Ron Barry]

WJD made a joke, everybody!

Hey!!!! i have a great sense of humor and wit, so I am told by my 3 best friends.. Me, myself, and I. :LOL: It just sometimes does not translate well when typed. :goofygrin

Then again.. I am not here for my wit and charm either. I will leave it up to each individual to figure out why I am here... And no Bob, I do not work for Dish and never have. However, I have worked for one of the biggest networking companies in the world. Toot Toot!! ;)

[Jason Nipp]

Hey!!!! i have a great sense of humor and wit, so I am told by my 3 best friends.. Me, myself, and I. :LOL: It just sometimes does not translate well when typed. :goofygrin

Then again.. I am not here for my wit and charm either. I will leave it up to each individual to figure out why I am here... And no Bob, I do not work for Dish and never have. However, I have worked for one of the biggest networking companies in the world. Toot Toot!! ;)

WJD, I never said you didn't have a sense of humor..... :D

Sometimes it's tough to figure out if someone is being serious or not, after all this is posted text, not always being able to see the context/intention of a message is a downfall.

Jason

[Ron Barry]

WJD, I never said you didn't have a sense of humor..... :D

Sometimes it's tough to figure out if someone is being serious or not, after all this is posted text, not always being able to see the context/intention of a message is a downfall.

Jason

Jason... Never said you did. :D. Just having a bit of fun with Gary's comment. As to it being tough to figure humor here, I have made that comment a number of times in the past. Usually on one of Gary's sutle humor posts. I hear exactly where you are coming from and all is good in the home of Tricky Dick.

[jerbroni]

I still haven't seen the update. Are the only people that are getting 281 the people that will receive the OTA guide data? Any other theories on why I wouldn't be getting this update?

[NightRyder]

I still haven't seen the update. Are the only people that are getting 281 the people that will receive the OTA guide data? Any other theories on why I wouldn't be getting this update?


jerbroni: Check out the link below. You'll see under the 811 that it lists 2.80 and 2.81 under current versions. When the software goes into wide release the 2.80 listing will go away. Based on past experience it may take up to 10 days from the initial release before all receivers are updated. If they find no major problems it will probably go wide sometime this week.

http://www.dishnetwork.com/content/...sions/index.asp


NightRyder

[terfmop]

Dark DVI?

Does anyone know if the problem with a dark DVI has been fixed with the new software? What about the DD 5.1?

[Jason Nipp]

Dark DVI?

Does anyone know if the problem with a dark DVI has been fixed with the new software? What about the DD 5.1?

Dark DVI was fixed in P2.69. When this update took my LCD's brightness had to be reduced substantially because my picture washed out.

Jason

[NightRyder]

Looks like 2.81 just went wide. If you haven't gotten it yet make sure your receiver is set to "Download Without My Permission" and power off for about 15 minutes.


NightRyder

[ee1995]

Looks like 2.81 just went wide. If you haven't gotten it yet make sure your receiver is set to "Download Without My Permission" and power off for about 15 minutes.


NightRyder

Also, set your receiver to a satellite channel before turning it off. I find that if I "park" it on and OTA channel while off it will not get any downloads or even update the guide. In addition, the on-screen clock will be slow unless I change to a sat channel.

[chris flannery]

Just turned on my 811 & P281 is there. OTA guide information, JOY! :) Looks like the speculation that the download is now going widespread is likely true. Thankfully I have had no problems with my 811 taking new downloads as others have reported. No other changes other than OTA guide info noticed as of yet.

[Jason Nipp]

Looks like the speculation that the download is now going widespread is likely true.

Chris, not speculation at all...P2.81 has spooled to Phase 3 and is now "Widespread". ;)

You can see this by checking the E* website.

Jason

[Cholly]

Well, I left my 811 off overnight and when I checked it this morning, 281 was installed. No program guide on my locals, though. Guess I'm in too small a market. But then, it may take some time to get a guide update. Time will tell.

[Jason Nipp]

Cholly, I don't think Binghamton is that small of a town... ;)

Is somebody compiling a list of DMA's that work and don't work? We should put up a poll to capture user market functionality.

Jason

[tcotter]

Only getting OTA analog local information in the Toledo market. Information seems inaccurate however. Local news information from a different city?!

[emathis]

Got 281 today...Albuquerque locals now have info...the info screens now stay on the screen longer than 2 seconds....so far no BSOD (but it's early yet).

[BFG]

I think so far only the markets where dish has locals has guide info. I think later they are going to work on adding other markets.

[ash]

I am in the Boston area. No 281 download yet. Anyone else recvd download in the Boston metro area ?

[Jason Nipp]

Only getting OTA analog local information in the Toledo market. Information seems inaccurate however. Local news information from a different city?!

Ya I'm getting inaccurate info on one channel. Oh almost forgot to report, Rockford, IL. DMA works, I also see OTA info for the Chicago and Madison WI. channels I receive. The only issues I can see so far is that my UPN, which is operated by my local ABC, has the same info on UPN as on both ABC channels. Also my 13.2 NBC still reads local Digital and the station itself is garbled and not viewable. Attached are some screen shots.

Jason

[carmangary]

I have the 2.81 version now and so far I am not pleased. First I had a problem where it shut off and wouldn't turn back on until I unplugged it and pressed the System Info button on the front. Then I had a couple BSODs that required the ole soft boot. All this has happened within 30 minutes or less.

[spiff72]

I have noticed that since the upgrade, the TiVo channel changes take place regardless of which Favorites list that is selected on the Dish Guide. Previously, if you left the guide on a a favorites list, and the Tivo tried to change to a station that isn't in the favorite list chosen, it would not go to that channel. Now it does.

Add it to the list!

Now if I could just get the DVI to look as good as component video, that would be great!

Also, I don't get the guide data for WZZM (ABC) in Grand Rapids, MI. (Analog channel 13 here, Digital 39).

Thanks,
Jeff

[ibglowin]

Got 281 today...Albuquerque locals now have info...the info screens now stay on the screen longer than 2 seconds....so far no BSOD (but it's early yet).

My 811 took the download yesterday as well! I am still seeing two stations showing up as "Local Digital". KOAT(7-1) and KNME (5-1 ONLY). Everyone else is now mapped and working properly.

It looks like they also fixed the bug that rebooted the reciever if you hit the GUIDE button after viewing Digital OTA for an extended period as well!!!

[bavaria72]

Hey Jason, 2.81 was on my 811 this evening and I am having the same issue in DFW regarding NBC showing up "Local Digital". I'm wondering if this is an issue with NBC? Also if I go up or down only one channel 95% of the time the picture is fine but DD (sound) does not lock in and I have to flip the channel again to get sound, much less DD. If I channel 2 channels, no issue. Very annoying.... :mad: - Art

[Jason Nipp]

Hey Jason, 2.81 was on my 811 this evening and I am having the same issue in DFW regarding NBC showing up "Local Digital". I'm wondering if this is an issue with NBC? Also if I go up or down only one channel 95% of the time the picture is fine but DD (sound) does not lock in and I have to flip the channel again to get sound, much less DD. If I channel 2 channels, no issue. Very annoying.... :mad: - Art

I get guide data on NBC on subchannel .1 but not subchannel .2

As also posted in the screenshots I posted my subchannel .2 is not viewable, which I don't understand because it's a digital OTA, should either be there or not, has to be a decoding issue. I sent an email to WREX to make sure the issue was not on their end. If it persists today I will send the info to E*.

Jason

[bavaria72]

Interesting. Yeah, none of the *.2 channels are showing up in the guide but (for me) NBC (5.1) also does not have a guide. Any one else in the DFW area noticing no guide for NBC (5.1)?

[Jason Nipp]

As also posted in the screenshots I posted my subchannel .2 is not viewable, which I don't understand because it's a digital OTA, should either be there or not, has to be a decoding issue. I sent an email to WREX to make sure the issue was not on their end. If it persists today I will send the info to E*.

Update on the screenshot for my garbled .2 NBC subchannel....according to WREX the issue was on their side, so this was not an issue related to P281.

Jason

[Jason Nipp]

Oh another thing you can see by looking at the screen shots, Grouped subchannels used to be under one channel number....when you looked at OTA ch 13 for instance, you would see 13-00, when you clicked on 13-00 it would open a secondary subEPG that had all the Digital OTA subchannels, 13-01, 13-02, 13-03 all grouped together in that subEPG menu. By looking at the screen shots you can see all subchannels are listed in the main EPG without having subEPG guides.

Don't know if I just lost anybody in my rambling... :rolleyes:

Jason

[BFG]

Makes sense and this is how it should be ;) the second EPG was kinda silly

[bavaria72]

Nope, got you completely (which may be a bad sign...) Anyway ugly screen shot your NBC .2. Glad they realized it was on their side. Just recently the ABC affiliate here was demo-ing a new decoder card and was actually broadcasting 3 channels at once for about a week (8.1, 8.2, and 8.3). From my perspective it worked very well and did not impact the quality of the other 2 channels at all. They have removed it (and thereby 8.3 went away) but the engineer group is trying to figure out how to get funding to buy the new card. I understand they were pretty happy with the results. More choices! They keep this up and locals via E* will soon be dropped from by account.

[Jason Nipp]

Message deleted by adminWOW..... A question to our guest... Was BFG's response offensive? I didn't take it that way.

Jason

[Jason Nipp]

Nope, got you completely (which may be a bad sign...) Anyway ugly screen shot your NBC .2. Glad they realized it was on their side. Just recently the ABC affiliate here was demo-ing a new decoder card and was actually broadcasting 3 channels at once for about a week (8.1, 8.2, and 8.3). From my perspective it worked very well and did not impact the quality of the other 2 channels at all. They have removed it (and thereby 8.3 went away) but the engineer group is trying to figure out how to get funding to buy the new card. I understand they were pretty happy with the results. More choices! They keep this up and locals via E* will soon be dropped from by account.

I hear what your saying Art, but I keep the E* LIL locals for my 301's. Though I do not watch them on my 811.

My NBC in question with the flakeout on 13-02 has broadcast 3 subs. During the Olympics they broadcast the NBC-HD Olympics feed on 13-01, random HD rebroadcast and highlights of the Olympics on 13-02, and normal SD broadcasting on 13-03. But now after the Olympics the .3 channel is gone and 13-02 is being used for special events and live Doppler radar.

Jason

[garypen]

He's just doing an O'Reily impression.

[Jason Nipp]

E* just responded to my comments on the subchannel EPG data. He said that the EPG data is limited to the primary channel, ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, etc... And the incorrect info in the EPG from my UPN, this is a result of the PSIP data and is only as accurate as the station sending it.

Jason

[ROFL]

Yeah, I don't get what went on there... So confused.... :confused:

deleted

[NightRyder]

deleted

Who invited Howard Dean?


NightRyder

[bavaria72]

That dude needs to take a chill pill. I assume the Administrators can block his IP address.....

[Cholly]

Did a front panel switch reboot to get updated guide info. Still no guide info on my digital OTA's, including PBS-HD.
Yeah, Jason, I guess Binghamton is that small. :rolleyes:

[coop1]

In Atlanta, the EPG info is working correctly on all stations.

I can't wait for it to be added to the 921. With a PVR it is really frustrating trying to figure out (station, date, time) what "unknown recording" means.

[Scott Greczkowski]

Just an update, I was just sent an update list of Fixes in 281 from Dish Network as well as a list of upcoming fixes and 811 software releases as well.

Click here to check it out (http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=32125)

My thanks to the guys at Dish Network for the additional (and advance) information!

[Jason Nipp]

Just an update, I was just sent an update list of Fixes in 281 from Dish Network as well as a list of upcoming fixes and 811 software releases as well.

Click here to check it out (http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=32125)

My thanks to the guys at Dish Network for the additional (and advance) information!

Thanks Scott, but the list sounds awefully familiar.... ;) Like the one I posted on Sept 29th in the attached thread post #25. :rolleyes: :D

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=32959&highlight=p283

[jerryez]

Got the 281 download, but no local guide data here in Pensacola, FL. I do not subscribe to the analog locals, but my HD OTA locals do not have guide data. Do I need to change some setting or something. I even uplugged the 811 and it did not help when it rebooted.

[masterdeals]

Got the 281 download, but no local guide data here in Pensacola, FL. I do not subscribe to the analog locals, but my HD OTA locals do not have guide data. Do I need to change some setting or something. I even uplugged the 811 and it did not help when it rebooted.

Same thing in Lansing MI, got the download tonight, but no data for any channels.... Anyone know if there is a delay for the data?

[Jason Nipp]

Are your locals available via LiL yet? If yes could be a PSIP issue....

One suggestion you could try removing then remapping your OTA digitals, otherwise I am told that this functionality is not fully functional in all DMA's yet.

Jason

[Scott Greczkowski]

Thanks Scott, but the list sounds awefully familiar.... ;) Like the one I posted on Sept 29th in the attached thread post #25. :rolleyes: :D

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=32959&highlight=p283

Nippjas, drop me an email and I will send you over what Dish sent me, I am willing to bet this is different then what they sent you. :)

Also the dates I posted yesterday are acurate as of yesterday as well.

[olgeezer]

Since 281, i've been getting lock up on HDNET, change channel to fix. it occurs several times an hour.

[Cholly]

Since 281, i've been getting lock up on HDNET, change channel to fix. it occurs several times an hour.
Fascinating. I noticed the same thing last night. I'm trying to remember if I saw the same thing on DiscoveryHD.

[khearrean]

Just an update, I was just sent an update list of Fixes in 281 from Dish Network as well as a list of upcoming fixes and 811 software releases as well.

Click here to check it out (http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=32125)

My thanks to the guys at Dish Network for the additional (and advance) information!

I am extremely disappointed :mad: to see/read that the only current and future fixes to the 811 are the ones Dish has given you of which you've posted above. I see no mention of the break-up/freeze problems that's been occurring on TNT HD, no planned fixes for trying to improve the 811 OTA tuner's reception of analog cable signals, no talk of compression issues which is undoubtedly why SD PQ is so poor (although granted this is probably not simply a software fix), nor any fixes for the info screen only remaining up for 3-4 seconds when the 'info' button is pushed. These are all problems which have been widely discussed & made known throughout this forum as well as another SAT forum for quite a long time. In addition, I have called Dish repeatably about these issues as well. I have to wonder why these are not important issues to Dish!!!!

Ken

[garypen]

I have to wonder why these are not important issues to Dish!!!!

KenPerhaps these are issues they simply can't fix. (Although, the 3 second info screen only started a couple of updates ago, so that one should be fixable.)

I think it is becoming pretty clear that the 811 is simply a crappy piece of equipment. There's only so much you can polish a turd.

[terfmop]

I received the 2.81 upgrade...my DD problem with my RCA receiver stil exists. My DVI ouput is still not operational. I've only been a customer barely a month. Thinking about switching.....hmmm

[Ron Barry]

I received the 2.81 upgrade...my DD problem with my RCA receiver stil exists. My DVI ouput is still not operational. I've only been a customer barely a month. Thinking about switching.....hmmm

WHat do you mean your DVI output is not operational? Sounds like you have a bad unit, bad setup, or an incompatability... DVI has been working since day one. It did have some dark video issues, but it was working.

[Charles Oliva]

Well my 811 received the 2.81 upgrade. My CBS and ABC stations are okay, but my FOX station still listed as "Digital Local" but should be noted that they just flipped to HD and use 2.2 not 2.1. Guess a call to Dish is in order.

[adv_dp_fan]

I had been leaving my 811 on all the time so I could record stuff to my dvd recorder so I was glad to get 2.81. I tested the timers and it does indeed turn the 811 on and give me picture and audio now but it seems it takes it as much as 3 or 4 mins past the start time of the timer to actually come on. I have to buffer the timer start time a lot more now. But at least it worked.

The only other problem I've had with my 811 was that recently my OTA digital channels started to disappear and I couldn't get them back. Well with this update they're all working again. I've never had any of the other problems people report and I watch my OTA digital channels for hours on end sometimes. Guess I was lucky.

OTA schedule is showing up fine but some subchannels don't have it. And the channels do seem to tune a bit faster. Overall, at the moment I'm happy with it.

[Jason Nipp]

WHat do you mean your DVI output is not operational? Sounds like you have a bad unit, bad setup, or an incompatability... DVI has been working since day one. It did have some dark video issues, but it was working.I agree with Ron. The 811 has had complaints of dark DVI but not inactive. Check to make sure your display doesn't have a toggle in a menu for input select, then check your cable type (go here (http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/DVI_monitor_cables.html#select) to read more). There are several different types of DVI, the 811 uses DVI-D and the 921 uses DVI-I. If none of these tips work then RMA that baby and get another.

Jason

[garypen]

WJD - Your name is Ron? Good to know. That's a much friendlier thing to call you than WJD.

[mraub]

No guide data for Champaign, IL. We have locals (though I don't subscribe). The OTA receiver in my TV picks up guide data, so it's out there somewhere. Is there a list of what DMA's are supposed to have it now?

MIKE

[Visitor]

the info screen only remaining up for 3-4 seconds when the 'info' button is pushed.

How old is your 811? Mine is only a few months old, and I've never experienced that problem. The info screen stays up until I turn it off. I've never left it on for an extended period of time, but sometimes I might leave the room or something and leave it up for a while, and it has never turned itself off. No one I know wih an 811 has experienced this problem. I wonder if there is more too it than a software issue? Maybe the hardware has changed slightly over time.

At any rate, I have no major complaints with my 811. I have a 6000 as well, and I'm thinking of replacing it with another 811 because the 811 is so much better, and I'd like to use the DVI interface it has.

[Jason Nipp]

Visitor, Do a search for P269 release notes, or maybe it was P280, well anyway there was much conversation on this topic awhile back. Some people are indeed having this issue and they are mostly older hardware revs.

Jason

[adv_dp_fan]

Ok, I've tried recording from my 811 more now since the 2.81 upgrade. It does come on but seems to be random as to when. I've tried three different times, the first time the video and audio came on 2 mins after the time was set, the second they came on 5 mins after the timer was set. The third time I don't know as I set it for an hour early to be sure I got the whole show. It worked that time. Not sure what the deal is but what I see on my recording is black screen for some time, then the info text box pops up with the time the timer was set for and then seconds later the text box changes to the current time (2 or 5 mins later) and the video and audio click in. Anyone else notice this?

[Ron Barry]

WJD - Your name is Ron? Good to know. That's a much friendlier thing to call you than WJD.

Oh Damn.. I let the cat out of the bag.. ;)

[Bobby94928]

Shucks, I like WJD!!!

[drjlo]

From SatelliteGuys site,

"Receiver will not imediately power on when instructed to do so. (Suggested fix is to give your 811 a few minutes to turn on, if you press the on off button a few times the unit will imediately turn off... give it time) This is scheduled to be fixed in version L2.83 which is scheduled for release in January 2005."


ExCUSE me? You mean I have to go through the 4-5 minute raindance every time I try to turn on my 811 from cold until JANUARY???? It wouldn't be as bad if after pushing the "on" button, only thing I have to do is wait. The fact is, I need to sit there, push the button again a couple of times at the right time, observing whether the blue power light is on or not, and even then, the 811 always reboots itself and goes through satelite 1 through 5 before it will give any picture.

January will be about 13th month I've had my 811, and I'm about ready to shove it up you-know-who's you-know-what...

[BFG]

if you have to go through that bug everyday I would get a replacment. I only have that bug once in a blue moon.

[buckyp]

My 811, while not perfect, did not have very many problems until the latest software upgrade.

Now I get the BSOD 2-3 times a day. I have to unplug the unit. It seems to only happen if I go to a HD channel to an SD channel. Either OTA or via dish.

This Sucks

[Ron Barry]

Shucks, I like WJD!!!

Then by all means call me WJD. :D

Hmm seems there is more incidents of the BSOD with this release. Has anyone who is getting a lot of them, tried clearing the memory and seeing if the frequency drops. I am still getting a low percentage, but it would be an interesting data point.

[Jerry G]

Hmm seems there is more incidents of the BSOD with this release.

Both my 811s are rebooted, via a timer, once a day. I get the BSOD on both units every day or two if I watch an OTA channel.

The BSOD isn't listed as a future fix on any upcoming fix list I've seen. This is very bad news. Between the BSOD and the freeze frame effect, the 811s are worse now (since 280) than they were when released. Screw the local channel guide. Dish should have put every resource into fixing the BSOD, assuming it's even fixable, which I'm now beginning to doubt. I think we're stuck with a very crippled POS STB with the 811. Dish should be ashamed of themselves for creating the BSOD bug and not being able to fix it in a timely manner.

[carmangary]

Both my 811s are rebooted, via a timer, once a day. I get the BSOD on both units every day or two if I watch an OTA channel.

The BSOD isn't listed as a future fix on any upcoming fix list I've seen. This is very bad news. Between the BSOD and the freeze frame effect, the 811s are worse now (since 280) than they were when released. Screw the local channel guide. Dish should have put every resource into fixing the BSOD, assuming it's even fixable, which I'm now beginning to doubt. I think we're stuck with a very crippled POS STB with the 811. Dish should be ashamed of themselves for creating the BSOD bug and not being able to fix it in a timely manner.

Hi. I have the 811 and also noticed that i get the BSOD more with the 2.81 software version. Has anyone contacted JVC about this? JVC makes the box for Echostar I think.

[mkpolley]

anyone having problems with adjusting the picture size,left to right?

[Pils]

anyone having problems with adjusting the picture size,left to right?

Nope, had every problem except that one. You mean you need it shifted left or right? Or need it stretched to the edges to fill widescreen tv?

[jbarber]

My 811, while not perfect, did not have very many problems until the latest software upgrade.

Now I get the BSOD 2-3 times a day. I have to unplug the unit. It seems to only happen if I go to a HD channel to an SD channel. Either OTA or via dish.

This Sucks

At some point, even cutting-edge CE gear needs to 'just work'. In my book, it's ok for advanced features to be buggy, or maybe that was what software testing is for? :confused:

I've had an 811 since early summer, and 2.81 goes from bad to worse with BSOD's and spontaneous reboots navigating from OTA to satellite channels.
Advanced features be hanged, my wife needs to be able to operate the silly box without having to get on her hands and knees to reset power when it locks up performing "basic" navigation functions, not to mention having to wait another three minutes for it to discover the world again.

I moved from Hughes a number of years ago when Echostar picked up WB and UPN. Informed or not, I'm currently regretting that decision. Since they can't seem to get the 921 software up to minimal standards either, I can't even throw money at the problem to fix it. What I don't know is if any of the competition has their act together either.

No warm, fuzzy satisfied customer glow THIS week. :mad:

[VENT TERMINATED]
--jim

[Cholly]

:mad: Hmmm -- I guess I must count myself as being fortunate. I have yet to experience the BSOD. On another tack, I don't get OTA guide info. Last night, watching the Tech Chat, I discovered why: OTA guide info is available ONLY in those areas where locals are available! I'm one of those unfortunates who live in the 5% of unserved areas. Guess I'll just have to wait for E* to bring LIL to my DMA.

[Nick]

I must be doing something wrong. My 811 doesn't seem to be functioning like everyone else's. It works. I don't get the BSOD, PSOD or any other SOD for that matter. My picture is centered, and the image options function as designed, both on HD and SD. No boots, reboots or unboots. Frankly, it's gotten so downright boring, I'm thinking about sending it back for repairs. Maybe Dish would swap my 811 for one that has...how shall I say it ...personality? :shrug:

[Ron Barry]

Both my 811s are rebooted, via a timer, once a day. I get the BSOD on both units every day or two if I watch an OTA channel.

The BSOD isn't listed as a future fix on any upcoming fix list I've seen. This is very bad news. Between the BSOD and the freeze frame effect, the 811s are worse now (since 280) than they were when released. Screw the local channel guide. Dish should have put every resource into fixing the BSOD, assuming it's even fixable, which I'm now beginning to doubt. I think we're stuck with a very crippled POS STB with the 811. Dish should be ashamed of themselves for creating the BSOD bug and not being able to fix it in a timely manner.

Well I got my in December of last year. I would definitely not say the software is in a worse state than then. I would however state, that 2.81 did seem to regress a bit. One step forward and two back.

As to the BSOD, well if you read the threads there is a wide range of experiences from not getting it at all to having it happen 3 times a day.

Here are my suggestions to try and minimize the issue until things stabalize.

1) Turn off PIP in Guide. Some glaim this helps.
2) Do not use Dish Home.
3) Do not use the lock/unlock and hide features if possible.
4) Do not use the timer features if possible.

For me, I don't get BSOD enough to cause a lot of pain. About once a week at the most. I do get it whenever existing the 6 channel dish thing so I avoid that now.

I hear 2.82 is around the corner. Hopefully that will get us on the right track. I also am a believer that the release notes do not indicate everything that goes into a fix. I would not be suprised if they kept the real ulgy fixes like BSOD off an official release list.

[James Long]

I must be doing something wrong. My 811 doesn't seem to be functioning like everyone else's.There's always ONE receiver that is buggy.

JL

[bavaria72]

Don't worry Nick, Charlie is going to take care of you by only offering new HD channels in MPEG4 so you will have to buy a new "personality" riddled box to see them. At E*, they care! :D

[Jason Nipp]

Here are my suggestions to try and minimize the issue until things stabalize.

1) Turn off PIP in Guide.
2) Do not use Dish Home.
3) Do not use the lock/unlock and hide features if possible.
4) Do not use the timer features if possible.

I hear 2.82 is around the corner. Hopefully that will get us on the right track. I also am a believer that the release notes do not indicate everything that goes into a fix. I would not be suprised if they kept the real ulgy fixes like BSOD off an official release list.I have the notes for P282, I will post when cleared to do so...spooling to beta now, but still a couple weeks off phase 1 spool, it's supposed to go widespread by the end of November but we'll see if it make it that far...nuff said there.

My take on the BSOD and other flakeouts, I use PiG, Favorites, and Timers and get BSOD about everyother day. I haven't had slomo issue since I put a UPS on my 811 and power inserter. My take on BSOD is it's a memory collapse, collision, or leak...whatever you want to call it. I have had some issues lately taking downloads, dump memory and it grabs the update right away. I also see similar issues on the 301...it was perfect prior to the interface changes, now sat acquisitions all the time. Frankly I believe the more personalization features you use the more you'll see the issues as I believe these issues are memory capacity or other memory related issues...Just a theory/hunch/opinion.

Jason

[Pils]

I must be doing something wrong. My 811 doesn't seem to be functioning like everyone else's. It works. I don't get the BSOD, PSOD or any other SOD for that matter. My picture is centered, and the image options function as designed, both on HD and SD. No boots, reboots or unboots. Frankly, it's gotten so downright boring, I'm thinking about sending it back for repairs. Maybe Dish would swap my 811 for one that has...how shall I say it ...personality? :shrug:

Hey Nick, I have a treat for you in my 811. Lets swap boxes because I don't have the time to play with this damn thing as much as it wants. Its like my golden retriever, always grabbing the frisbee to go play every 15 minutes.

[Ron Barry]

I have the notes for P282, I will post when cleared to do so...spooling to beta now, but still a couple weeks off phase 1 spool, it's supposed to go widespread by the end of November but we'll see if it make it that far...nuff said there.

My take on the BSOD and other flakeouts, I use PiG, Favorites, and Timers and get BSOD about everyother day. I haven't had slomo issue since I put a UPS on my 811 and power inserter. My take on BSOD is it's a memory collapse, collision, or leak...whatever you want to call it. I have had some issues lately taking downloads, dump memory and it grabs the update right away. I also see similar issues on the 301...it was perfect prior to the interface changes, now sat acquisitions all the time. Frankly I believe the more personalization features you use the more you'll see the issues as I believe these issues are memory capacity or other memory related issues...Just a theory/hunch/opinion.

Jason


Being a software Engineer, you might be right. possible it buffer overrun given the fact that it is happening in different place. Maybe a common routine different services is using. It also could be a slow memory leak that hits people randomely. But I that people have gotten the BSOD right off the bat so that usually rules out slow memory leak. At this point it is anyone guess, but given the wide spread variations of how people are seeing it I would guess it is in a common routine. Which means you find it and fix it and a lot of BSOD reports disappear. ;) Then again, maybe it was a cut a paste spreader. Programmers version of a virius. ;)

[Jason Nipp]

Being a software Engineer, you might be right. possible it buffer overrun given the fact that it is happening in different place. Maybe a common routine different services is using. It also could be a slow memory leak that hits people randomely. But I that people have gotten the BSOD right off the bat so that usually rules out slow memory leak. At this point it is anyone guess, but given the wide spread variations of how people are seeing it I would guess it is in a common routine. Which means you find it and fix it and a lot of BSOD reports disappear. ;) Then again, maybe it was a cut a paste spreader. Programmers version of a virius. ;)Sounds to me like E* recruited the reject lackies that worked on the original release of Pella....You know the Redmond rejects? ;)

[Ron Barry]

Sounds to me like E* recruited the reject lackies that worked on the original release of Pella....You know the Redmond rejects? ;)

No.. not familar with Pella. However Engineering do tend to move in packs. Kinda of like wolves in more than one way.

[Jason Nipp]

No.. not familar with Pella. However Engineering do tend to move in packs. Kinda of like wolves in more than one way.You know Microhard Pella Winblows 95a...Sorry WJD...Dry humor...;)