UPC digital + HD with Philips tv problem

dunworth1

i just got in the HD + box the other day and i am having problems with my Philips TV show video format not supported i contacted Philips support and they said it could be a problem with the hd box as i have a xbox 360 connected and that works fine any ideas

dunworth1

i think i solved it

i reset the hd box back to factory settings and it seems to be fine now

lynobie

I've recently installed the same HD box and have a Philips tv also. Can only get picture using scart connection. When I use HDMI I get same message that there is no video signal. I've tried resetting back to the factory settings based on the last post and it worked but only for a short period. Can anyone else advise?

dunworth1

i still get the message but i have a work around turn on the box before you turn the tv on

lynobie

'll give that a go, thanks for the reply dunworth1, it's greatly appreciated:)

dunworth1

i wonder why this is happening though

lynobie

Ah so do I. I have a technichian calling out on Friday and hopefully he can get to the root of the problem (I'm not convinced they will). I've been looking into it myself and thought it might be a HDCP problem but it doens't seem to be it. I want to update the firmware on the tv just to rule out any possibility that's it is the tv. I have a Mac mini hooked up to the tv via HDMI and I've never had any problems. If I get an explanation i'll let you know. When it wrks it's great but when it goes it's fierce annoying.

bronn

I have exactly the same problem and I have a new-ish Sony Bravia (got it in October last year). As dunworth said, the work around is to turn the box on before the telly. If you turn the telly on and then the HD box - no signal.

I also have a blu-ray and a Mac Mini with HDMI connections hooked up from both and there's no problem with either of them. I thought maybe the telly didn't like the third HDMI port so I tried the HD box on it's own, then in different HDMI ports, then tried it with the blu-ray connected, then with the Mac - nothing. You have to turn the HD box on before the telly or it won't work.

Would be interested to know what you discover about this or if there's some setting I haven't selected on the HD box.

Alun

I'd certainly go with the firmware update on the TV first .. on my Philips TV, if I look in the change logs for each release, a large number of changes have to do with HDMI compatibility problems of some sort. It's oretty easy to do, at least it was on mine, just put the unzipped f/w in the root folder of a USB stick, insert in the USB slot on the TV and it recognises it immediately and asks you if you want to install.

lynobie

Hello Everyone, last night I tried the workaround of putting box on before tv and it worked. However it didn't work this morning but I only tried it once so will look into it again. When you say turn off, do you mean standby or off completely from the button at the back?? I have updated the firmware on the tv this morning also and still the problem is there so now I'm happy to rule out the tv being the problem. I think it might be a software problem on the box itself possibly around the HDCP issue but I'm not sure. Hopefully the technichian from UPC turns up tomorrow morning and has an answer. Fingers crossed!

bronn

Took a while but I don't think there is a firmware update for my telly. The version it has is, apparently, the most recent one. Not convinced of this but if there is an update out there, I can't find it. However, I did get this from Sony;

No Audio or No Video When Connected by HDMI™
When connected to certain DVD players or A/V receivers via HDMI input, a limited number of televisions that support the new xvYCC color feature (x.v.Color™), may show no video and/or play no audio. This may occur with televisions manufactured by Sony or by other manufacturers.

This issue occurs only when using an affected DVD player or A/V receiver as the source device for the programming being viewed on the television. Audio and video viewed from other sources, or via connections other than HDMI, are unaffected by this issue.

This is an HDMI error found within the DVD players and A/V receivers and is not a problem with the television’s HDMI connection.

Sooo... don't quite know what all that means but I think what they're saying is, "It's not the telly. It's your HD receiver. Tough."

lynobie

Hi everyone, I was hoping to have some sort of answer or explanation for you after my visit from the NTL tech. However guess what? Yes you probably guessed it, he never turned up not even after I called NTL to remind them of appointment. Anyway that's a different conversation. Myself and a friend have been looking into this A LOT and i'm confident that the problem is not the tv, not completely anway. We've discovered that we have friends in Russia and Holland that have the exact same issue and using the same workaround. The problem seems to be related to a timing issue with the HDMI cable from box to tv.The box uses HDMI 1.2 and our tv's are 1.3 which is part of the problem. It is a long story but we think there might be a fix with a new cable. My pal who is a proper tech has ordered it and it should arrive in a few days. We'll test and if we have any success I'll forward on a full explanation and more importantly the link to the cable. Fingers crossed again!

danIrl

Have an older Philip TV 26inch. Often experience the same problem.
Generally turning on/off the telly fixes it.
Sometimes I get another issue where the picture disappears every 4-5 seconds for about 1 second and then reappears, disappears, etc. Every time it disappears this is a short buzz. Turning on/off the TV also fixes this!

bronn

lynobie wrote: »

The problem seems to be related to a timing issue with the HDMI cable from box to tv.The box uses HDMI 1.2 and our tv's are 1.3 which is part of the problem. It is a long story but we think there might be a fix with a new cable.

How typical that the UPC technician didn't call, Lynobie. They are an utterly frustrating shower when anything goes wrong. Interesting about the cable issue - would love to know if it works for you.

lynobie

Hi, just thought I'd post another update about this problem. Finally I got a priority call from UPC. However on the phone I specifically asked to send a tech that understood more than simply how to plug in the box. Alas I got another technician who could tell me nothing and didn't even carry the HD boxes to offer me a replacment one (not that it would solve the problem). So the investigation goes on and with no help from UPC. The process I'm taking a the moment is one of elimination. I know it's not the tv and I've used a very expensive HDMI cable so it's not that either. It's deffo something to do with a problem cally HDMI handshake, which is a timing issue basically, that's why sometimes it works and other times not. Mysekf and a friend are working on another possible solution. I'll hopefully be able to update you soon. If this doesn't work then I'm cancelling my HD subscription with UPC and will consider sky or HD freesat which is a once off payment and provides nearly all the channels UPC offers and more. I'll keep you informed.

dunworth1

lynobie any update on this problem did you get you cable

lynobie

Hi there, sorry for the delay, but I've had a real headache with UPC. I had another tech out to the house who doesn't understand this cisco box. Eventually I had the HD box replaced and low and behold if solved the problem...for two weeks!!! Yesterday it started to act up again, but after a restore and leaving it off over night I managed to get it working. I believe this problem could be related to the EDID between the TV and the STB itself, look up HDMI 'Handshake' issues and you'll see what I mean. A friend of mine was able to order s device that can sort this but it is expensive and not a route I want to take when it's UPC's problem. I would recommend getting the box replaced with a new one if you haven't already. I'm going to see how long it lasts this time and if it fails I'll try the device that 'repairs' the EDID between the tv and STB and let you know how it goes. There could be a component in the box that is over heating and causing the problem but I'm not sure. Head wrecking!!

bronn

I'm just wondering if anyone ever solved this handshake problem with the HD box? I never did, changed the cables around, took off the splitter, unplugged everything else yadda yadda - nothing worked. However, I'm now in the habit of turning on the HD box before the telly. If I don't, then the telly simply locks up and won't respond to any remote. It has to be turned off properly at the switch, then once the HD is up and running, turn on the telly again and there'll be no problem.

Simon201

Ok, I've recently been plagued by this exact issue as well. It got to the point where I lost the head and damaged the HD box (sorry UPC! - in anger management therapy now ).
So anyhow the box got replaced and what seems to have solved it for me is to only use the remote that I got with the Philips TV to change from the various sources (HDMI 1&2, side HDMI, scart etc) as opposed to using the HD box remote, which does work ok for the volume and on/off.
I'm happy to say I haven't had the problem since realising this now, and I have a DVD player and a Macbook connected to the other HDMI sources and I can go back to the HD box without a problem now.
The bottom line, I think, is that the something affects the HD box when one uses the 'TV' button on the remote to operate some other equipment apart from the HD box.

MadDogGreener

I'm getting this issue with a samsung tv too. The UPC box is the only HDMI source that seems to cause this problem. The easy solution seems to be turn the TV off and on again.

I've tried different cables, removed the splitter box I have etc and it makes no difference.

bronn

My telly's a Sony, so this problem isn't confined to Philips. Via HDMI, I've also got a Mac Mini plugged in and a Sony Blu Ray. No problems with either of them. It's only the UPC box that causes the "lock out", regardless of handset used. Even plugging it in on its own won't make a difference. Bloody thing. Wish I could figure out how to fix this.

lynobie

Hi everyone, when I had this problem I eventually had the box replaced. I was able to switch between several HDMI connections without issue. It was working fine up to a few days ago. It seems that a few of us are experiencing the problem again. I wonder have they carried out software update as my box keeps locking and turning the box on and then the tv works but only for a few minutes, then the box locks and I have to turn it off at the back. Can't believe this problem is back.

GHOST MGG2

Ive been having the same problem for ages.
A technician friend of mine did say that on philips tvs if you can move hdmi cable from the upc box to the 3rd of 4th hdmi slot in your tv that it can solve the problem(philips tvs apparently having problems with anything stuck into hdmi slot 1)..well i tried this and it too worked for a while,but am now back to square one:-(
hoping someone can solve this soon as its a pain in the proverbials:eek:

Drop

Hi All,

I'm having the same issue, apparently it's the HDCP handshake problem. A lot of useful info regarding this can be found at http://www.hdcabling.co.za/hdcp_hdmi_handshake_troubleshooting_guidelines.php .

I have currently found out the exact sequence for operating my UPC box and TV successfully.

I) Signal lost:

1. Switch off the box (button at the back)
2. Switch it back on (button at the back + normal so it displays channel)
3. Turn TV on

II) Once you got you signal back on, and want to switch telly off:

1. Switch the box off.
2. Switch telly off.

III) When you want to turn it on again:

1. Telly on (wait till it loads)
2. Box on.

If I go wrong in any of these steps, it immediately results in no signal. I had tested this for few hours so far, numerous times, it works well for me. I hope it helps you guys as well.

Will test out the HDMI switcher method in the future. It is meant to act in the middle, handshaking with the telly and the box seperately. You just have to make sure that it supports HDCP and HDMI V1.3 protocols if you decide to buy one and try it out yourself. Seen reports that this one worked http://www.amazon.com/GSI-Super-Quality-3-Port-Switch/dp/B003WZ7OVI?tag=5336653703-20 (probably cheaper on eBay).

EDIT:
Forgot to mention that in my case, switching the box on before the telly only helps the first time you plug it in. The telly is a 37" Daewoo.

Donimo

This seems outrageous. We now have a Sony, Samsung and Philips TVs responding the same way. NO-ONE has the same trouble with Sky, Playstations, or other BluRay players.

This is causing me a huge headache. I moved from regular UPC PVR to HD PVR, and I too am considering moving back to the SCART socket, so at least the kids can turn on the TV by themselves! What's the point in HD then???

We really need to get hold of someone with clue in UPC. Yes, yes, I know, that could be difficult.

Donimo

Donimo

I've PMed UPC's "Official Representative" here on Boards, asking for help to hook up with someone suitably technical you may be able to help. Here's hoping.

Donimo

Drop

Drop wrote: »

Hi All,

I'm having the same issue, apparently it's the HDCP handshake problem. A lot of useful info regarding this can be found at http://www.hdcabling.co.za/hdcp_hdmi_handshake_troubleshooting_guidelines.php .

I have currently found out the exact sequence for operating my UPC box and TV successfully.

I) Signal lost:

1. Switch off the box (button at the back)
2. Switch it back on (button at the back + normal so it displays channel)
3. Turn TV on

II) Once you got you signal back on, and want to switch telly off:

1. Switch the box off.
2. Switch telly off.

III) When you want to turn it on again:

1. Telly on (wait till it loads)
2. Box on.

If I go wrong in any of these steps, it immediately results in no signal. I had tested this for few hours so far, numerous times, it works well for me. I hope it helps you guys as well.

Will test out the HDMI switcher method in the future. It is meant to act in the middle, handshaking with the telly and the box seperately. You just have to make sure that it supports HDCP and HDMI V1.3 protocols if you decide to buy one and try it out yourself. Seen reports that this one worked http://www.amazon.com/GSI-Super-Quality-3-Port-Switch/dp/B003WZ7OVI?tag=5336653703-20 (probably cheaper on eBay).

EDIT:
Forgot to mention that in my case, switching the box on before the telly only helps the first time you plug it in. The telly is a 37" Daewoo.

EDIT 2: Having same problems again. If I leave the box off for more that 10 minutes I can't get the signal back on no matter which order I use to switch on/off.

Squeaksoutloud

I also have this issue with a Phillips TV. Seemed to start occurring after I changed the UPC HD Box from 720P to 1080i but cant be sure. I always have to turn the TV on a second time to get the signal to work. No other issues with any of my other devices. I'll be interested to see if the UPC Boards rep has anything to offer us.

fbradyirl

I have the same issue with my Sony Bravia. I can get it to work eventually, but its a totally nightmare for anyone else in the family and sometimes I get phonecalls when I'm out and about asking how to turn on the bloody TV.

It looks to me like the UPC HD box is using the cheapest of cheap components inside which don't play nice with any TV's.

I have no such issues with my AppleTV which is plugged into a different HDMI slot in the TV.

I even went and bought that HDMI switcher from Amazon but that didn't help either.

Chriscl1

having the same problems here. i got a new hd box on tuesday after the upc techie came and it will only work with the scart lead, so i was convinced the problem was the tv (philips 37" 1080p) so i sent it off under warrenty and they left me a new lg lcd to use, well that tv is saying "no signal" too, so i had my 23 month yo son shouting he wanted to watch "thomas" and our 3 week old twins bawling and i swear to god i nearly put this bloody box out the fecking window with the four hdmi leads i tried lol. upc sending out another techie on tuesday, well he can take the box with him, im not paying for this, sky can have my money. rant over, feel better now lol.

GHOST MGG2

I find it hard to believe that UPC havent even bothered to fix the hdmi handshake thing..and getting phone calls from family members asking how to turn on the TV/BOX so that it works also happens with me quite a lot,to be fair if my wife was dealing with this she would have thrown that cisco hd+ box out the window..and i dont blame her grr...

Drop

I have bought TEVION 3 WAY HDMI SWITCH BOX today in ALDI for €11.99. I connected the UPC box to hdmi input 1 & whenever there is no signal I just switch input to either 2 or 3 & then subsequently back to 1 which is UPC. Tried it numerous times & it works perfectly. Best of all, this HDMI switch comes with a remote!

Hope this helps.

dunworth1

i just turn on my box before i turn on my tv and i cover the ir on the remote when pressing the tv button
and it has been working fine for me

Keano1999

I have the same problem on a Philips tv. Any updates on a fix ?

Fresh Pots

Received my digital + HD box yesterday and am yet to get it working with the hdmi cable. They really shouldn't be charging us for these boxes when they don't even work. Is there another HD box that is more reliable or am I just stuck with this big black Cisco contraption?

silvine

Is there a fix for this yet?


Is it all Samsung TVs or just particular models. I bought a new Samsung full HD TV at Xmas and am thinking of getting HD but I won't bother if there's issues.

dunworth1

silvine wrote: »

Is there a fix for this yet?


Is it all Samsung TVs or just particular models. I bought a new Samsung full HD TV at Xmas and am thinking of getting HD but I won't bother if there's issues.

it only happens with some tvs not all of them

work a rounds
tv off
turn on the box first then the tv

tv in standby
if you turn on the box first and then cover the ir on the remote and then press the tv button then you can bring the tv out of standby.

Chriscl1

I found with my philips it was the opposite to that.

Fresh Pots

None of the workarounds work for me, I've got a beko. Sometimes the sound and picture will appear but then start flickering every second or two, other times I just get the sound, and most of the time nothing happens.:mad: Back to scart.:mad:

silvine

I think I'll stick to MKV for my HD so!

Grawns

I have a similiar feckin stupid problem with a samsung. UPC box stuck on load ->->->

Going to call them this morning but was hoping for a quick fix. None if the work arounds work as it's stuck on load.

columt

Same HDMI handshaking problem here, with UPC Cisco HD box and a Panasonic Viera TV. When I choose the appropriate source input on the TV it attempts to sync at low-res (unsuccessfully). I find that changing to another source, then changing back to the UPC box usually results in a successful hi-res sync. Using a HDMI switch didn't improve matters.