Verizon FIOS and Samsung TVs

Replying to my original question, I spoke with Samsung this afternoon. The 26" model I've been eyeballing has not had any reported issues with the HDMI connection and the Motorola STB. Furthermore, according to the Samsung rep, the HDMI issue appears to be isolated to the 2008 Samsung models. The 2009 models have not had the issue.

All comments

spacedebris

Its Samsung TV's in general. Mostly its with HDMI connections. Hooking up using component cables is what Verizon generally does when connecting to Samsung TV's and that usually works fine. There are some other issues that span all TV's but the one that is Primarily a problem with Samsung is just the HDMI connection.

The Samsung issue is really a communication problem between Motorola and Samsung. And since Verizon currently only uses Motorola boxs, hence the problem. Motorola blames Samsung and Samsung blames motorola. My opinion is that the problem is on Samsungs side since the issue does not affect any other manufacturer (on this particular issue) but as of yet, I have not heard of any resolution. Only the workaround by using component cables rather than HDMI.

If I'm reading your post correctly, the issue is really hit-or-miss, correct? Some Samsung models may experience a problem when connecting via HDMI, while others do not.

CharlesH

As of right now it is really hit and miss with different models of HDTV's. Verizon and Motorola are working hard to resolve the issue soon though.

spacedebris

Exactly. Some have the issue, while others do not. Verizon genneraly errs on the side of caution and just hooks up all Samsungs with component cables now. But you may be one of the ones that have no problems at all. No way to tell until you do though.

Does Verizon publish (or maintain) a list of the Samsung models that do not have the issue?

Hi - new to the forum. The comments that I've read are very informative. Thanks everyone.

I just switched from cablevision to FIOS. My old set up: a Samsung LN46A750 connected to a Yamaha RX-V863 AV Receiver via HDMI that was connected to a Scientific Atlanta 8300 HD - also via HDMI.

Everything worked fine.

However when the FIOS installer connected the Motorola 7216 DVR to the AV reciver via the same HDMI cable the TV would go on for about 20 seconds and then go green(GSOD - Green Screen of Death??).

After a couple of minutes on the phone with tech support, the installer said there was no cure but was optomistic that one would be coming soon as this was a known problem.

So the installer connected the DVR directly to the TV via component cables bypassing the HDMI to the AV Receiver. The Tv works but with diminished clarity/resolution/color.

A bit of a dissapointment as its a step down in quality from our old set up. It's contrary to everything i've heard about FIOS

airscapes1

I posted this in another thread but if you are still using component give this a try and let us know what happens.

Turn everthing off and unplug the component cable

Turn off the STB

Plug in the HDMI cableto the TV and STB

Turn on the TV

Now if this worked for you as it does me, you should see the verizon screen saver saying your STB is in standby and to push menu. Cross your fingers and do so.

I am not using a new HD TV but and older DLP projector that worked fine with a 7100 box but does not handshake with the 6200 box that tech support sent me to replace a defecive (non HDMI issue) 7100 box.

I do not turn the projector on and off like a tv, but unhook and put away after each use so this workaround may need to be done every time you turn your tv on, if it works at all.

If I was to just leave the STB on and plug in the HDMI cable and power up the projector, I get no picture. Hope this helps someone who is using component against there will.

NOTE:I am also using the RF output of the same box connected to a standard set. Of course tech support says this is not supported and you need a box for every thing you connect.. give me a break.... funny how I can hook up more than one device to my DVD player at once..

Message Edited by airscapes1 on 07-30-2009 06:22 AM

Message Edited by airscapes1 on 07-30-2009 06:23 AM

Airscapes,

Thanks for the suggestion. I just tried a couple of sequences for turning the components on and off including the sequences you mentioned. got the screen asking me to "Push the Menu button" but the results are pretty consistent - normal TV for about 20 seconds then the blank green screen.

I'm back to the Component connection.

airscapes1

Sorry it didn't work.. I feel for you.

pderby

BOOOOMER, give this a try:

Here is how you might solve the Samsung/Motorola STB synch problem:

Enter the Set Top Box "User Settings" Mode
- Start with your Motorola Set Top Box and HDTV both On.
- On the front panel of your Motorola Set Top Box (not the remote control) press the following in quick succession: Power, Select, Menu.
- You should now see a Menu in grey/black that is titled "User Settings"
Using the buttons on the front of your Motorola STB adjust the following settings:
- TV Type: Should be set to 16:9 for an HDTV
- HDMI/YPbPr Output: Should be set to an appropriate HD setting (720P or 1080i)
- 4:3 Override: Should be set to OFF (The problem with Samsung TV's occurs when this is set to 480i
Exit the "User Settings" Menu by pressing the Power button on the front of the Motorola Set Top Box

If this works or doesn't work, let others know along with the exact model of your Samsung TV. It worked with my Samsung 56" DLP TV.

IHatetheDolans

@BOOOOMER wrote:
Hi - new to the forum. The comments that I've read are very informative. Thanks everyone.
I just switched from cablevision to FIOS. My old set up: a Samsung LN46A750 connected to a Yamaha RX-V863 AV Receiver via HDMI that was connected to a Scientific Atlanta 8300 HD - also via HDMI.
Everything worked fine.
However when the FIOS installer connected the Motorola 7216 DVR to the AV reciver via the same HDMI cable the TV would go on for about 20 seconds and then go green(GSOD - Green Screen of Death??).
After a couple of minutes on the phone with tech support, the installer said there was no cure but was optomistic that one would be coming soon as this was a known problem.
So the installer connected the DVR directly to the TV via component cables bypassing the HDMI to the AV Receiver. The Tv works but with diminished clarity/resolution/color.
A bit of a dissapointment as its a step down in quality from our old set up. It's contrary to everything i've heard about FIOS

Although there can be a difference between sources, there should not be a marked drop-off when going from HDMI to Component, or vice versa. You will find folks fall into one of three categories: HDMI is better, Componenet is better, or I can't tell the difference. One can argue about detail, color saturation, etc. and have a valid point in regards to either of these connections. However, if there is a noticiable degradation in picture quality across the board when you go from HDMI to Component, this suggests a calibration, cabling, or input problem. If clarity, resolution and color are affected, check your settings for that input and try matching them to the settings for the HDMI input. Also, if you have the means, try different cables to be sure that you are getting a good signal across the wire.

While your eye may find that the picture is not as "perfect" as the HDMI was, the difference should be subtle and be more of a preference issue rather than marked degradation.

yleekiotea

I recently bought 3 samsung hd tv's. I have had issues with 2 of them when connected to my dvr. In fact one died completely, Lost both picture then sound. I had to replace it that is why I had 3 when I only wanted 2. I have never had any issues with my 46" 8series 1080p HD LCD TV. However that is connected to a HD box via rf cable with both in and out connection also via an hdmi cable. But, one of the 6series died via hdmi (thank goodness it was only 15days old May 2009) And I have problems with the 7series I replaced it with. All I wanted was to see a good hd picture who knew it would be such a pain? Also did you know that live tv is not being broadcast in 1080p yet ? Interlaced makes the picture not look as good as it should. So what is the purpose? OH well, good luck on your journey with FIOS/Samsung adventure.

Can you post the model numbers for those TVs?

RufusRastus

I as well bought high quality HDMI connectable equipment, and when I finally got my Onkyo home theater, and hooked up the STB HDDVR through the Onkyo (pass through) to my Samsung 46A550, I got the same green screen after 10-15 seconds. I want hdmi for the handshaking which occurs for component control, as well as the picture quality. With the HDDVR hooked up directly to my Samsung, I get regular video drops and freezes, but audio continues. I just want things to work as they are supposed to. I also have a Sony blue-ray player hooked through the Onkyo and it works fine, as does my home theater PC which I built intending to use in an hdmi connection. So what/who is at fault in this situation? I have done the latest firmware updates from Samsung to no avail. Also have tried numerous hdmi cables with no change. As my year contract is up NOW I am looking around for alternatives.

I have a new samsung LNT46B650 TV and I recently got FIOS. But the tiv flickers each time I switch it on. Called verizon and they admitted that the DVR box has issue with HDMI connections and asked me to buy component cables! come on.. I am paying $150 permonth and I have to buy morfe things? Why don't verizon say these issues before hooking up customers?? Pathetic....

RufusRastus,

FWIW, i've given up on getting the HDMI cable to drive the Samsung.

However I still have HDMI connected to all the components; from the STB to the AVR; between the TV & AVR; from my PS3 to my AVR. I have component from the STB to the Samsung.

I set my programmable remote (worth its weight in gold) to automatically change the source on my samsung tv to HDMI when watching bluray off the PS3 and component when using the STB.

Because I have the HDMI from the STB to the AVR i get full 5.1 surround audio.

elmontro

A friend had the same issue. verizon told him that one of the boxes has a chip that doesn't work well with HDMI. They changed the box for one that has the updated chip and everything is now perfect.

I am getting another box to try my luck.. They are sending another box after 2 hrs of fighting... How do we know abt the chip? I s there any way to find?

TECHMAN777

SOLVED? Will the person who considers this "solved" please tell us how to connect the DVR via HDMI so that we don't get the problem.

By the way, the HDMI link to some Sony's is just as bad. I've had to switch to component cables for my Sony 46XBR4.

component cables don't deliver sound. right? Can somebody say how do I get sound and video using these component cables. I have a receiver that goes between FIOS box and TV. Thks for your time.

yleekiotea

The Good Samsung connected to the good HD box is: LN46A850. The one that completely died, (less than 2 weeks old) is: LN32B550. I replaced that with LN37B550 and it still has issues with HDMI (picture but no sound) I am stuck with component cables. oh well!!!

Grndnpound

The issue with HDMI cables and the problems connecting to so Samsung Tv's and other various brand Tv's should all be resolved in the up coming IMG upgrade. The dates for all VHO's are tentative but, should start being push starting on or around the begining of Sept.

elmontro

The box that works is the QIP 6416-2. Please ask for that if your receiver is giving you issues with HDMI. This is an older box and that's why they are trying not to give them out.

RufusRastus

As a last resort, I called the Verizon help line. I was underwhelmed by the response, and not surprised considering what I have read here and elsewhere. The representative, always courteous, told me that the HDMI issue was that manufacturers were not adhering to the same set of rules for connectivity, and some work well and others don't. And there was again the issue of cables. So I gave up trying to get anywhere and went to Best Buy and got some component video cables. They do work but not what I wanted. So now the rest of my home theater system is unaware of the presence of the "set top box" because of the absent HDMI connection. If I turn off my Sony blueray player, my TV sees that all digital sources are gone, even though the set top box is turned on, and changes from HDMI-1 input to over the air antenna (nothing there) and acts stupid. And of course if the FIOS signals do ever carry real HD DTS or Dolby then I will be unable to decode it due to loss of HDMI connections, as coax digital or optical don't support high definition audio. I sure am glad that I got a home theater amplifier which has a multitude of connections as I will need alternatives to whatever SHOULD work.

Rufus Rastus,

Try what i did - use HDMI from the STB to your AV receiver. Connect the HDMI cables from your AV receiver to the TV. Connect the component cables from the STB to your TV. When your watching TV switch the souce on the TV from from HDMI to Component. when watching Blueray change the source back to HDMI.

Because the STB is "transmitting" to the AV receiver via HDMI - im getting the full quality audio (5.1) going to the receiver.

Its a lot of cables and switching but it works. Also a configurable unversal remote like the Logitech Harmony works beautifully in autmatically switching the TV source when switching from bluray to tv and back.

good Luck!