Question about Hi-Def and Digital channels (I'm confused)

[annch]

   I have two Sony televisions and subscribe to Comcast cable.  I don't subscribe to Direct TV satellite (DT)? HD, digital programming nor do I have a cable card.  Both televisions pick up Direct TV, HD and digitals channels.  The channels/frequencies I receive these programs on are channels that are not whole numbers (i.e. 84.7, 134.5).
   I believe I am picking up these channels from my neighbors.  I believe this because, I guess when they pause, rewind and forward a show I also see the pause, rewind and forward.
   How is the television receiving the DT, HD and digital channels?  Will I lose this capability if I switch to FIOS   tv?  Will I need the boxes to get hi definition tv with fios?

[Justin]

Well, I guess the first thing I should say is LUCKY YOU!

I have no idea why/how you are getting that, but it certainly does sound like somehow you are getting your neighbors channels.

As to FiOS, well, it brings fiber to the premises, but then it attaches to coax within your dwelling to actually distribute the FiOS TV signals. Depending on how/where you are getting the neighbors signals, you might still get them. One thing you could do is disconnect your cable connection where it comes into your dwelling and see if you still get the DirecTV stuff; if so, you may very well continue to get it if you get FiOS.

Yes, you need one of the HD boxes to get HD from FiOS, either the HD STB or the HD-DVR. There is a fee for each box, but no fee for the actual HD channels, which number from somewhere around 18 up to 25 or so, depending on the premium services you subscribe to and where you are.

By the way, you really need some kind of box, SD or HD, in order to see anything but some very basic analog channels with FiOS, generally channels 2-49.

Hope this helps a little...and I am a little jealous, although I am perfectly happy with my FiOS service.

[Mposadastx]

   I have two Sony televisions and subscribe to Comcast cable.  I don't subscribe to Direct TV satellite (DT)? HD, digital programming nor do I have a cable card.  Both televisions pick up Direct TV, HD and digitals channels.  The channels/frequencies I receive these programs on are channels that are not whole numbers (i.e. 84.7, 134.5).
   I believe I am picking up these channels from my neighbors.  I believe this because, I guess when they pause, rewind and forward a show I also see the pause, rewind and forward.
   How is the television receiving the DT, HD and digital channels?  Will I lose this capability if I switch to FIOS   tv?  Will I need the boxes to get hi definition tv with fios?

i'm stumped as to why you are getting your neighbor's channels lol

the one this is can say is that you do NEED an HD reciever for HD content

[TBoneJones]

You're likely receiving these channels because they are not encrypted digital channels.  Most video on demand (VOD) channels that cable companies offer are unencrypted.  Typically the STB from the cable company limits your ability to "view" these channels.  Someone in your area is likely watching a VOD and since your TV is capable of tuning in digital QAM channels you can see it as well.  In my area I have about 15 possible VOD subchannels (84.1-15) that may or may not carry a signal.  Only when someone requests something can I tune these channels in.  If you were to scan thru your tuner on your TV you'll likely get different sub channels each day depending on VOD usage in your area.

[FiosTech1194]

Hello,

Verizon Fios TV will have over 100 HD channels soon.......