Tuning Adapter (High-Split) Converter Problem

Had some trouble getting logged in here to post an update, but a second tech that had Cable Card / Tuning Adapter experience was able to get everything to work.  Primarily a lot of reboots and waiting.

Note:  latest TA (Vecima HSC) firmware version: eTR version 1.8.0  Although I originally couldn't get the TiVo to show any TA diagnostics, the original was on 1.4 I think they said.  Everything has been working great for about a week.  The TA does get pretty hot;  I've got it on the top and separated from the other electronics.

Note also, the correct wiring is cable into TA, and then out to the TiVo (pass thru), and not split.  Apparently, the new TA has the capability to re-modulate channels (impressive), and therefore the TiVo needs to get the cable from the TA.  

The techs were very nice and cooperative.  One remote tech was helpful in provisioning and scheduling the on-site techs.  Any chat, general help desk, or retail store people; however, are clueless.  The best you can hope from them is to ship you the new TA and/or schedule an appointment with the right techs.  The retail store people (especially the store manager) are generally rude and very put out that you want something other than what they are trying to sell you.  You can get the new TA shipped to your home, and I think if you wait long enough and reboot enough (both TA and TiVo), I think the TA will eventually download the latest firmware.  You shouldn't need a new cablecard;  I don't believe they have anything "new" cablecards anyway.  Even if it isn't working initially, you'll want to leave the TA on overnight (cable in and power) so it can get the latest firmware downloaded.  It didn't appear the techs could do anything to force a TA to update itself.