My local cable provider is Comcast and I opted to order the HDTV and DVR options in my setup. I had used a Tivo previously and was quite happy with that but I was looking for something that was capable of recording HDTV. Comcast uses the Motorola DCT6208 for its HDTV and DVR package. As with any DVR, the DCT6208 lets you pause and rewind live TV. There is a dramatic change between HDTV reception over standard digital cable as well as analog cable. The set top box has the ability to send signals in widescreen format at 480i, 480p, 720i, 720p, and 1080i. I have it connected to a Samsung HL-R4667W and have it set at 720p, which is the highest resolution the TV can accommodate. The unit has component video output as well as DVI, but I am using the HDMI connection on my TV for my Mac Mini and do not have a receiver cable of switching HDMI connections. It also has the standard S-Video and RCA outputs, but if you are looking for the best HDTV quality using the DVI or component connections are your best bets. It also has built in Ethernet, USB, and Firewire but I have yet to find any uses for those. The unit has coaxial and optical digital output for audio and I use the coaxial to connect to my Sony receiver.

My service contract was up with Cingular and I decided to upgrade my Motorola V551 handset. For the most part, I had been happy with Cingular. The wait times for customer service were somewhat long, but overall coverage after they acquired AT&T had been good throughout California. I became interested in smart phones and decided to explore my options. I needed a phone with email capabilities for the most part. I manage a few servers as well as a few websites and it is much easier to respond to clients in a timelier manner. Also with the smart phone I am able to check if all the machines are operating properly without the need to carry a laptop with me at all times.