You are here: Home / DTA FAQs

DTA FAQs

1. What is happening to my service?
Comcast is upgrading its Basic 2 / Expanded Basic Cable* channel lineup to digital-quality signals on all TVs connected to Comcast. This will improve picture quality, allow Comcast to offer over 2,000 HD choices and enable us to provide customers with access to over 17,000 On Demand titles. In addition, increased use of digital technology will enable us to deliver faster Internet access speeds and enhanced phone service.

(*Basic 2 / Expanded Basic cable package includes over 40 channels, including many of the most popular cable channels, like Disney, ESPN, MTV, HGTV CNN, USA, Food Network, Lifetime, and Fox News, etc.)

*Note: Channel lineup varies by market.

2. Why is this happening now?
Comcast is investing in new technology that will deliver digital quality today and enable new choices as soon as possible. Among those new choices will be over 2,000 HD choices and access to over 17,000 On Demand titles. The number of HD TV sets increases year after year and TV networks and other programmers produce more HD programming. Comcast is working hard to make this programming available to all high-definition customers.

3. Who will be affected?
Customers may be affected if they:

  • Subscribe to Comcast Standard Cable or Digital Cable; and,
  • Have a TV connected to a Comcast service without a Digital Set Top Box.

Customers who subscribe to the Comcast Basic 1 cable are not affected. In addition, Digital Economy, Digital Latino or Digital Family tier customers are affected; these customers already have a Digital Set Top Box.

4. What if I don’t do anything?
Any TV connected directly to Comcast service without a digital device will eventually lose access to some of the channels it currently receives. You’ll keep the 20-25 Comcast Basic 1 Cable channels, (local broadcast TV stations, plus local government, education and public access channels) but you’ll lose all Basic 2/Expanded Basic channels, like Disney, CNN, Lifetime and over 40 others.

5. Why doesn’t Comcast already know how many TVs I have?
Comcast knows how many TVs use Comcast set top boxes. However, many customers connect their cable-ready TV sets directly to Comcast service without notifying the company. These homes may have several TVs receiving Comcast service legally, but Comcast has no record of them.

6. How do I know if I have On Demand?
If you can tune to Channel 1 and see the Comcast On Demand menu, then you have access to thousands of free programs any time of the day or night.

7. What is On Demand?
Comcast On Demand on Channel 1 provides a library of thousands of movies and shows ready to watch when you are – from blockbuster movies to kids – programming to network shows. And most are free. Simply go to Channel 1, and use your remote to find your favorites.

8. What is the difference between a Digital Set Top Box and a Digital Adapter?
A Digital set top box (sometimes known as a digital converter box or digital receiver) processes digital-quality signals and offers access to On Demand, our On-Screen Program Guide and nearly 50 commercial-free music channels. A digital adapter (also known as a DTA), simply provides digital-quality signals.

9. What is Digital Cable?
Digital Cable refers to the technology used to transfer signals over the Comcast fiber optic network. It is the same technology built into most TV sets sold over the past few years. It delivers higher-quality picture and sound.


10. What is Limited Basic Cable?
Limited Basic provides you with a range of basic channels including local broadcast stations (such as ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS), and exclusive local government and education channels. For specific channels in your area, visit our Channel LineUp page.

11. What is Expanded Basic Cable?
The Basic 2 / Expanded Basic cable package includes over 40 channels, including many of the most popular cable channels, like Disney, ESPN, MTV, HGTV CNN, USA, Food Network, Lifetime, Fox News, etc.)

Note 2: Not all channels are available in all markets.

12. What is Analog Cable?
“Analog” refers to the technology used to transfer some signals over Comcast’s network. It is the same historic technology built into most televisions in use today, although virtually all new televisions sold over the past few years are based on digital technology.

13. What if I already have Comcast Digital Cable?
Any TVs that already receive Comcast Digital Cable* are all ready – you don’t need to do anything. However, even if you have Comcast Digital Cable on one TV, any other TV connected directly to Comcast service without a digital device will eventually lose access to some of the channels it currently receives.

(* via a Comcast Digital set top box, or a Comcast provided CableCardTM)

Note: You will be able to see 20-25 Comcast Basic 1 cable channels, (local broadcast TV stations, plus local government, education and public access channels), but will lose all Expanded Basic channels, like Disney, CNN, Lifetime and over 40 others.

14. What if I need to change my order?
If you haven’t yet received a confirmation on-screen summarizing your order, simply press the “previous” button to go back to the main recommendation screen and make whatever changes you’d like. If you’ve already received an on-screen confirmation, then call 1.877.634.4434 to speak with one of our World of More representatives. Be sure to mention that you’ve just placed your request for new digital equipment.

15. When will I receive the new equipment?
Your confirmation will show the shipment dates and estimated shipping time. You can track shipping using the information shown on that page.

16. What if I need help installing the new equipment?
When you receive the new digital equipment, you’ll also receive instruction on how to install it. There are also videos available online to see how to complete the installation. If you still need assistance, please call us at 1.888.634.4434 so we can help troubleshoot via phone.

17. Do I need to set my TV to a specific channel?
Set your TV and the adapter both to channel 3, unless instructed otherwise. (Some areas of the country use channel 4)


18. I need different equipment than what I ordered. How can I get new equipment?
If you need additional equipment, or if you’d like to exchange what you have for something different, please call a representative at 1.877.634.4434.

19. The remote control isn’t working right. I can’t control my TV.
Verify that you’ve programmed the remote control for your TV using the steps and codes included in the Comcast DTA Remote guide. Verify that your batteries are working; replace if necessary.

20. How do I turn off my new digital adapter?
Your new digital adapter will remain on but you can use your new Comcast remote to turn your TV on or off at any time.

21. How can I use the picture-in-picture feature on my TV that’s connected to a digital adapter?
The picture-in-picture feature on an analog television will not work with your new digital signals.

22. Can I record my favorite programs on my VCR using a DTA?
Yes you can continue to record programs on your VCR using your digital adapter.

23. Can I record Limited Basic channels without digital equipment?
Yes, you can continue to record Limited Basic channel programs without digital equipment by following the VCR manufacturer instructions.

24. With equipment from Comcast, can I program my VCR to record my favorite shows?
You will not be able to program your VCR to record different channels at different times when your TV is connected to a digital adapter. To record different programs at different times, you will have to change the channel on your digital adapter.

If you have a digital set top box, you can program your digital set top box along with your VCR to record different channels at different times by following the instructions found in FAQ #25 below.

25. How can I use the Digital set top box and VCR to record future programs?
To record a future program:

Set top box instructions:

  1. Select the program you want to record from the TV listings.
  2. Press OK/Select to bring up the Program Information screen with the Quick Menu.
  3. Select the Record icon from the Quick Menu/
  4. Select Record Future Program.
  5. Once the set top box is set, a message displays reminding you to set up the VCR.

VCR Instructions:

  1. Turn on your VCR and tune to channel 3 or 4 (depending on your manufacturer’s instructions).
  2. The VCR needs to be programmed to record channel 3 or 4, as the set top is controlling the channel to be recorded, not the VCR
  3. When the program starts, the set top box will automatically tune to the program so that your VCR can record it.

*Please note: The steps above apply to standard-definition set top boxes, with the exception of the Motorola DCT2000. To check to see if you have this device, click here.

26. How does the Digital Migration affect a media center PC that is used with Comcast Cable service?
A set top box or digital adapter will be required in order for a media center PC to receive Comcast’s Expanded Basic channels or a higher level of service. The installation is the same as the installation for a set top box or digital adapter on an analog television.

Note: Media center PCs that use a cable card do not require a digital adapter.

27. How do I connect a set top box or digital adapter (DTA) to a Media Center PC?
To connect a set top box or a DTA to your Media Center PC, you will need the following equipment:

  • 2 coaxial cables

  • IR control cable

  • Remote sensor/IR Blaster

To connect to your Media Center PC:

  1. Connect one end of one of the coaxial cables to the cable jack in the wall
  2. Connect the other end of the coaxial cable to the cable input connection on your set top box. This connection is usually called: CABLE IN, IN FROM WALL, or INPUT. If you are unable to locate this connection, refer to the instructions for your set top box.
  3. Connect one end of the other coaxial cable to the cable output connection on your set top box. This connection is usually called: CABLE OUT, OUT TO TV, or OUTPUT.
  4. Connect the other end of this coaxial cable to the TV IN jack, located on the back of the Media Center PC.
  5. Make sure the remote sensor is located near the set top box and then connect the remote sensor to the USB port on the back of your Media Center PC.
  6. Locate the remote receiver. This is the area on the front of your set top box where you aim the remote control to change channels, and sound levels.
  7. Remove the small piece of paper covering one side of the IR control cable. This will expose an adhesive (sticky side) on that side of the IR control cable.
  8. Using the adhesive, attach the IR control cable in front of the remote receiver on the front of the set top box.
  9. Connect the plug of the IR control cable to the back of the remote sensor for the Media Center PC.
  10. Press the green Start button on the remote control (this will open the Media Center Start menu) and then select Settings.
  11. On the Settings page, select TV, then select Set Up TV Signal to begin the TV Signal Setup Wizard.


28. If I currently have Comcast Cable service and I receive broadcast high-definition (HD) channels, how will this be affected by using a digital adapter?
The digital adapter does not support HD signals. Comcast offers HD set top boxes for a monthly service fee, which provides access to over 2,000 HD choices. If you wish to keep access to broadcast HD channels, you can continue to receive the Limited Basic channels (including broadcast HD) without Comcast equipment; however, Expanded Basic channels or higher channel tiers would not be accessible.

As another alternative, some HD television sets have multiple RF inputs and in this case, you could use a splitter on the incoming cable feed. Detailed instructions for setting this up can be found here.

29. How do I connect a digital adapter (DTA) to my high-definition television (HDTV) so I can continue receiving broadcast HD channels?
To continue receiving broadcast HD channels with a feed directly to your HDTV, you will need:

  • DTA
  • Splitter
  • Coaxial cable (x5)
  • A/B switch

To install:

  1. Connect one end of a coaxial cable at the wall
  2. Connect the other end of that coaxial cable to the IN of a splitter
  3. Connect a coaxial wire to the OUT of the splitter and to the IN of an A/B switch
  4. Connect a coaxial wire to the OUT of the splitter and to the IN of the DTA
  5. Connect a coaxial wire to the OUT of the DTA and to the IN of an A/B switch
  6. Connect a coaxial wire to the OUT of the A/B switch and to the IN of the television

To watch Limited Basic or broadcast HD channels, set the switch for the A/B Switch to the correct setting (for example “B”). To watch any Expanded Basic/Starter channels in digital format, set the switch for the A/B Switch to the correct setting (for example “A”).

*Please note: Some HDTVs may have two (2) RF inputs. If your HDTV has two RF inputs, you have the option of taking the output connections from the splitter and connecting them directly to the RF inputs of your TV, without using an A/B switch. You will need to select alternate inputs (RF 1 or RF 2) on your TV to switch between Limited Basic/Broadcast HD or Starter/Expanded Basic channels.

30. Is my TiVo DVR compatible with the new Comcast digital equipment?

Yes, TiVo DVRs are fully compatible with Comcast digital equipment and will allow you to access all of your channels.

TiVo Series3 DVRs (including TiVo HD and HD XL) will work without a Digital set top box because they use CableCARDs to receive digital channels. Digital adapters are not needed.

TiVo Series2 and Series1 DVRs require a Comcast Digital set top box or a digital adapter to receive digital channels.

If you have questions about setting up your TiVo DVR with a Digital set top box, please check your TiVo owner’s manual. You can also visit www.tivo.com/alldigital or call 877-367-8486.

31. How do I connect my TiVo to my Comcast service?
Series1 or Series2 Single Tuner DVR:
You will need to connect your TiVo DVR to a digital adapter or a Digital set top box from Comcast to continue receiving all of your channels. Please visit www.tivo.com/alldigital or contact TiVo for instructions on how to set up your TiVo DVR with Comcast Digital set top box.

Series2 Dual Tuner DVR:
You will need to connect your TiVo DVR to a Digital set top box or a digital Adapter (DTA) from Comcast to continue receiving all of your channels. However , connecting to a DTA will not allow you to use the TiVo’s dual tuner functionality. To enable dual tuner functionality, you will need to use a Comcast Digital set top box and a cable splitter (included in the Series2 DT package). Note that only one tuner will receive your complete channel lineup – your second tuner will receive only basic channels. Please visit www.tivo.com/alldigital or contact TiVo for instructions on how to set up your TiVo DVR with a Comcast Digital set top box.

Series3/HD DVRs:
If you do not already have CableCARDs installed in your TiVo DVR, you will need Comcast to provide you with:

  • Series3 HD DVR: Two (2) CableCARDs
  • TiVo HD or TiVo HD XL: Either one (1) M-Card or two (2) S-Cards

32. Will I need equipment if I have a digital TV with a QAM tuner?
At the completion of the digital upgrade, customers will need equipment on all TVs to receive any channels above the Limited Basic level of service, of course, this is now the case with most video providers, including our satellite and phone competitors. We’re encouraging all customers to avoid any service interruptions by installing and using the equipment provided by Comcast or purchased from their electronics retailer, like a TiVo or CableCardTM enabled device.

33. Will I get access to parental control on the Digital Adapter?
Comcast provides customers with the necessary tools and resources to manage content that they may deem inappropriate. In addition to our variety of packaging options, which include a Digital Family Tier level of service, this is accomplished via our digital set-top converters and the interactive guide available on those converters. By using a Digital Set Top device, a customer may set controls on what programs may be viewed through use of a PIN. Digital Adapters have a more limited functionality; they do not have a built in parental control function. They simply pass the signal to the TV required for your TV V-chip to control your family viewing. You will be able to fully set and control your TV parental locks in the same way you were able to prior to installation of a digital adapter.

If your TV has built in parental control technology, it will continue to work with the digital adaptor.

34. My TV has an embedded electronic program guide. Will I be able to continue to use this guide after I install the Digital Adapter?
Yes. The Digital Adapter will pass through the guide data necessary for your TVs programming guide.

35. Can I control my digital adapter remotely through a Slingbox?
Yes. The digital adapters are fully compatible with Slingboxes. To configure your Sling Media client to control the DTA please follow the following instructions:

  1. Open SlingPlayer for Windows.
  2. Make sure you are logged in to your Sling Account.
  3. Select Setup Assistant from the Settings menu.
  4. If prompted, enter the administrative password for this Slingbox.
  5. Click the Configure Video Sources link.
  6. Select the Slingbox input that you need to reconfigure.
  7. Follow the onscreen instructions for locating the Comcast DTA.

For more information please refer to:
http://support.slingmedia.com/get/KB-1000205.html

36. Can I use my TV’s closed captioning with a digital transport adapter (DTA)?
Yes you can. The ability to display closed captioning on your television is not affected by connecting a digital transport adapter (DTA) to your TV. In order to use closed captioning, please follow your TV manufacturer’s instructions.

37. What is digital encryption?
Digital encryption is a technology used to protect television programming content from unauthorized viewing. Think of it as “scrambling” the TV signal so that only customers that are authorized to receive a channel can view it. To receive digitally encrypted signals, customers need a digital device available through their service provider, such as a digital transport adapter, Digital cable set top box, or CableCardTM. All pay TV providers “cable, satellite and telco” are contractually required by programmers to protect the content they distribute from unauthorized reception.