View Full Version : Anyone in MTL with a DVHS deck?
chrisr
03-08-2005, 09:37 PM
So, the only way that I have read about to record an HDTV show is either a HDPVR or an DVHS deck. HD PVrs for Videotron list for 799$ and can be had for probably 600$, I believe DVHS decks are a little bit less than that? Anyone using one with videotron?
Chris
In order to use a D-VHS deck, you need to connect it to a firewire-equiped STB. I don't believe any of the Videotron STBs (SA) have firewire activated (although I could be wrong if the new PACE STBs have it...).
See the FAQ on Recording HD.
chrisr
03-09-2005, 01:17 PM
Ok. Just so you know, every macintosh computer either comes with or you can download a virtual DVHS deck program. It is pretty nice. So then you can record onto the computer and play back when you want.
The Pace550 which I have doesn't have a firewire port on it, only usb in the front. The SA3250 is listed in the virtual DVHS program as being supported, but you are saying that the feature isn't enabled on videotron, is that correct?
Is there anyone who has a Macintosh AND videotron AND a SA3250?
Chris
I believe the only STBs in Canada with firewire output enabled are the Motorola ones. I don't think any of the SA STBs have firewire enabled by their cable companies at this time. (Rogers, Videotron) They may in the future.
The Mac will be able to record "appropriately flagged" programmes, programmes that don't allow recording to a computer will not record (as mentioned in the FAQ).
chrisr
03-09-2005, 02:10 PM
Is that truly accurate?
From this thread of people in the US who have used this exact config, there are no issues recording much HD material, including HBO and others.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=386740&perpage=20
A few comments.
1. I've not got time to read 51 pages of AVS, although I did read a few.
2. The 5C flags do apply, but since the Mac seems to emulate a D-VHS deck, then the flag only applies to "record never" programming (record once seems to be "OK").
3. Although that's the case now, this software may be made illegal, or altered, or the flags may be changed in the future.
4. The US has had mandatory firewire outputs since April 2004, you still need to wait until Videotron activates it...
5. Although this may work on a Mac, people with Motorola STBs in Alberta were not able to record "flagged" material on PCs (just an FYI).
6. I"m sure that once the MPAA (and others) find out about people being able to copy "supposedly protected" files to their computers, this activity will be "shut down".
ti-pou234
03-09-2005, 09:38 PM
I'm sorry to barge in the discussion with a totally unrelated question but I am also from Montreal, Laval to be precise. Chrisr, in the first post, you say you can get the Videotron HDPVR for 600? Can you tell when and how? I am looking for one right now.
Thanks
I believe Future Shop or Best Buy have them listed on the web for $599.
ti-pou234
03-10-2005, 08:41 AM
I believe it is the one from Rogers that is 599 and if i am right it cannot be used on the videotron network.
chrisr
03-10-2005, 10:17 AM
Hi
At the futureshop in Ste Dorethee, next to the Highway 13, it will be 599$ and will work on Videotron's network.
Christopher
ti-pou234
03-10-2005, 11:00 AM
I have seen the price on FutureShop
I read someplace that in order to work ro serial number of the terminal must be listed in the Videotron database. I also read that the Rogers would not work. Anybody with experience on that matter?
chrisr
03-10-2005, 02:45 PM
You are right. Thats why I said to go and buy it at Future Shop in Laval. The boxes will be in the videotron database (and come in a videotron box and specific videotron instructions)
