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bohenlv's avatar
bohenlv
New Contributor

new contour problem

Having problems for the last month, becoming worse.

We set up a future program to be recorded, via Guide page. Red dot with checkmark appears as normal. During expected time of recording, we notice no red light on the front of the contour box. Checking the DVR LIst, the scheduled recording does not appear. In Guide, the program shows a red dot without checkmark. Upon trying to watch the (unrecording) channel in real-time, via the contour box, the "channel is unavailable" (either HD or SD), although other TVs, on mini-boxes only, DO display the channel. ???????

Cisco Model 9865

If we must exchange the box, can the previously recorded shows in memory be transferred to a new box?

Thanks

9 Replies

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  • bohenlv,

    Due to copyright stipulations we are unable to transfer recordings. It's possible this is signal related, not a problem with the box. In that case, replacing the box wouldn't fix the problem.

    Do you see the unavailable message only on certain channels? What troubleshooting steps have you performed?

    A 5 minute power cycle of the box may help. Also, it's a good idea to check the coaxial connections and be sure every connection point is finger tight. Changes in temperature and vibrations can sometimes cause the coax to work itself loose. It's not a good idea to use tools to tighten the cable either, as over tightening can cause a poor connection also.

  • bohenlv's avatar
    bohenlv
    New Contributor

    Thanks,

    How does one perform the 5 minute power cycle? The coax connections were checked - all fine, not over-tightened.

    Thus far, the record problem has occurred with channels 1003, 1005, 1031, 1038, 1316. As stated, when there is no live availability for the scheduled recording via the Contour box, other home TVs (on mini-boxes only) receive the channel fine (except the premium 1316).

    I don't see how transferring presumably encrypted files on one box's hard drive to a new box's hard drive could possibly violate copyright.

  • bohenlv,

    I'm sorry I wasn't clearer. Power cycling is just unplugging the power cord. Unplugging for a full 5 minutes will make the box reestablish the connection to the network and re-verify services and permissions.

    Have you noticed if all of the above mentioned channels also say they are unavailable for live viewing when the recordings fail?

  • bohenlv's avatar
    bohenlv
    New Contributor

    YES! - the channel is unavailable for live viewing for the duration of the (failed) recording, and some time thereafter... Happened to 1031 last evening, but now plays live normally.

  • bohenlv's avatar
    bohenlv
    New Contributor

    Checking channels now - only one currently showing the error is 1315 - signal unavailable; code 3.1.2.0

  • Hi Bohenlv,

    I apologize for the delay. Are there any splitters on the coax connection to your DVR? A splitter, for example, provides a second coax connection that is often used to connect your internet modem.

  • bohenlv's avatar
    bohenlv
    New Contributor

    Lat line connects to a powered amplifier/splitter, SVI Digital  SV-A15-4PRS, which feed 3 coax cables to separate rooms, amplifying each 7.5 dB. Please see image…

    this software won't upload my image...

  • JonathanJ's avatar
    JonathanJ
    Former Moderator
    @ bohenlv,

    Are you able to bypass splitter just to see if that helps?