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DTA stands for Digital Transport Adapter. Comcast also refers to them simply as "digital adapters." It's an inexpensive and very basic digital cable device that allows you to watch all Limited Basic and Expanded Service channels that were migrated from analog to digital (Usually the first 99 channels). DTAs will not receive premium channels such as HBO, Showtime, etc. Consult your local Comcast center for an applicable channel lineup card for details.

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The DTA does not offer any advanced features such as OnDemand or Pay-per-view. Standard DTAs are intended for legacy analog TV sets, as such they only feature an RF coaxial output that transmits a video signal on channel 3 or 4 (switchable), in this regard it is like a VCR or the old analog cable boxes used in the '80s and '90s. HD-DTAs are simple boxes for a second or third TV that have an HDMI port.

More information is available here: https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/digital-adapter

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Does the DTA have a guide?

Yes a basic guide was rolled out throughout 2014-2015 to all markets.

Standard DTA Guide:

https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/dta-on-screen-guide

HD DATA Guide:

https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/hd-dta-on-screen-guide

FAQ: https://www.xfinity.com/support/articles/dta-guide


HD DTA and uDTA

In 2013 Comcast, began to offer an HD capable version of a DTA for Limited Basic subscribers who would like access to the HD versions of their channels. 

These newer devices are also called uDTA, "u" for universal, since they work for any TV set, and in all Comcast markets. A major improvement with these newer models is the ability to use an RF remote (like the XR2 which is included in the self-install kits) with the uDTA so it can be totally out of sight, for example: mounted on the back of a TV.

It costs the same $1.99/month. Like the standard definition version, it is a simple small black box, in addition to an RF coaxial output (for legacy TVs), it features an HDMI connection. For Limited Basic users there are no other fees. For those on higher-up plans it will require the addition of the HD Technology fee ($9.95) if it is not already on your account.


NOTE:

On the HDMI setup menu, there is an aspect ratio option for 4:3, 16:9 & AUTO, there is also a setting for the standard output resolutions (480i/p, 720p, 1080i) plus an AUTO setting - which the DTA was defaulted to.  The AUTO setting is for legacy users and compatibility sake, AUTO seems to downconvert every channel (HD included) to 4:3 and 480i. You must explicitly set it to 16:9 and an HD resolution to get an HD picture.


More information on the HD DTA can be found at the links below:
https://www.dslreports.com/forum/r28301671-DTA-HD-DTA-s-are-here-in-Springfield-IL-a-review

http://blog.trebacz.com/2013/09/comcast-xfinity-hd-udta-pace-dc60xu.html


Accessing the DTA diagnostics screen

To bring up the Diagnostic Screens Menu, hold down the "0" (Zero) key on the remote until it displays. Then use the arrows and Enter keys to select submenu options. Hit "Last" to return to the main menu or "7" or "Exit" to get out of the diagnostic mode.

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Example of diagnostic menu on a modern uDTA (click to enlarge)



Feedback received on this FAQ entry:
  • Using the basic Comcast DTA remote, to ACCESS the DIAGNOSTIC MENU, press and hold 0. To EXIT press 7. This instantly returns to regular channels. The channel up-down buttons navigate the menu, and the Enter button selects. Use the Last button to return to the main menu. Volume buttons work normally, and other buttons don't seem to have any function on the HD DTA diagnostic menu.

    2016-06-25 20:01:37

  • If you want to access the diagnostic menu with the new guide firmware hold 0 on the remote for 5 seconds.

    2015-07-11 18:38:05 (pclover See Profile)

  • I just installed my 2 HD DTA's due to Comcast encrypting all service. It's important to note that the only thing HD about them is the HDMI connection. The picture is delivered as standard 4:3 or other sizes depending on the channel with black bars on the sides or all around. So my 50" tv is about the size of a 32" and I'm losing picture info off the sides. I'm about to research antennas for OTA!

    2013-09-25 23:33:15



Expand got feedback?

by Travelfan1 See Profile edited by SpHeRe31459 See Profile
last modified: 2018-03-27 18:25:09