Frequently Asked Questions

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Questions

Can I adjust the quality of the video recording to conserve hard disk space? (Cable)(DVR)
Can I get a HD signal on my regular television? (HDTV)
Can I make a VHS tape of a recorded program? (Cable)(DVR)
Can I record Digital Music channels? (Cable)(DVR)
Can I set the DVR to skip commercials as it is recording? (Cable)(DVR)
Can Midcontinent track what I record with my DVR? (Cable)(DVR)
Do I need special equipment to control which channel is blocked? (Cable)
Does FREE Channel Blocking control all TV sets in my house? (Cable)
How can I avoid getting viruses? (Internet)
How can I make an International call? (Telephone)
How can I restrict objectionable content on my television? (Cable)
How do I get information on programs? (Cable)(DVR)
How do I get out of a screen I'm stuck in? (Cable)
How do I guard against pop-up ad, spamming, and viruses? (Internet)
How do I prevent hackers from getting into my computer? (Internet)
How do I reboot my cable modem? (Internet)
How do I record a Pay Per View (PPV) broadcast? (Cable)(DVR)
How do I return to live TV when I'm watching recorded programming? (Cable)(DVR)
How do I switch my phone service to Midcontinent Communications? (Telephone)
How do I tell what the icons mean? (Cable)(DVR)
How do you make the DVR record two programs at once? (Cable)(DVR)
How far back can I rewind live TV? (Cable)(DVR)
How long can I keep My Recordings? (Cable)(DVR)
How long can I pause live TV? (Cable)(DVR)
How many other home entertainment components can be connected to my DVR? (DVR)
How many tuners does my DVR have? (Cable)(DVR)
How much high definition programming can I save versus standard definition programming? (Cable)(DVR)
How will I know when I'm almost out of recording space? (Cable)(DVR)
I cannot get on the Internet and the cable connection light on the front of my modem is flashing, what can I do? (Internet)
I cannot order Pay-Per-View, what should I do? (Cable)(DVR)
I have a home theater system. Can I record a program in Dolby Digital™ 5.1 on my DVR? (Cable)(DVR)
I have lost power to my set top box. My TV Guide says "To Be Announced". What do I do? (Cable)
I just bought a new cable modem. How do I get my account adjusted? (Internet)
I keep getting "General Protection Fault", "Invalid Page Fault", "Application caused an Illegal Operation..." errors. What are these? (Internet)
If I have lost power, will I lose my Parental/Purchase Codes, Favorites, Reminders or Locks? (Cable)(DVR)
If I'm watching a program in progress and want to record it, can I record from the beginning? (Cable)(DVR)
If the power goes out, do I need to reset my Lock Out and Purchase codes, Favorite Channels, Reminders, and Locks? (Cable)
My cable is not working, what should I do? (Cable)
My remote is not working, what should I do? (Cable)
On occasion, a recording starts a minute or two after the program has begun. Why? (Cable)(DVR)
The Internet connection indicator on the front of my modem is flashing and I can't view webpages, what can I do? (Internet)
The power light is off on my modem. What does that mean? (Internet)
What are the taxes and fees on my telephone bill? (Telephone)
What can I do to reduce the number of calls I receive from telephone solicitors? (Telephone)
What does "This page cannot be displayed" mean and how do I fix it? (Internet)
What does it cost to block channels I feel are inappropriate? (Cable)
What if I missed a Pay-Per-View movie or event that I ordered? (Cable)(DVR)
What if the program I want to record runs over its scheduled airtime such as when a football game goes into overtime? How can I make sure I record everything? (Cable)(DVR)
What is a firewall? (Internet)
What is my IP address? (Internet)
What is the difference between HD and Digital? (HDTV)
What is the graphic bar that appears when I change channels? (Cable)(DVR)
What is the V-Chip? (Cable)
What phone features do you offer with your telephone product and how do they work? (Telephone)
What should I do if I don't have a dial tone? (Telephone)
What should I do it I forget the Parental or Purchasing lock codes? (DVR)
What type of equipment will I need to receive the HD signal? (HDTV)
When in BROWSE and FLIP mode, why am I skipping over channels? (Cable)
When will HD channels be available? (HDTV)
When will High Definition Cable Service be available? (HDTV)
Which type of HDTV should I purchase? (HDTV)
Why am I getting sound out of only one speaker? (Cable)
Why does my first bill seem to have more than a month's worth of service charges? (Cable)(DVR)(HDTV)(Internet)(Telephone)
Why does my Internet speed seem to be slower? (Internet)
Why doesn’t my set top box respond when I press the keys on my remote? (Cable)(DVR)
Will HD service cost more? (HDTV)
Will I eventually HAVE to buy an HDTV in order to watch TV? (HDTV)

Answers

#1 (Cable)(DVR) Can I adjust the quality of the video recording to conserve hard disk space?

No, the DVR records at a pre-set level for consistent results.

#2 (HDTV) Can I get a HD signal on my regular television?

No. To watch television in HD, you must have an HDTV. Digital and analog television sets are not equipped to receive a high definition signal. You can only experience high definition reception on an HDTV. Midcontinent will not provide HD signals for customers with non-HD televisions. When you call, please have your HDTV User Manual on hand so that our Customer Service Specialists can be sure that your set is enabled to view HDTV.

HD Channels/Stations generally provide a mix of HD and non-HD programming. HD programming is limited to the programming provided to Midcontinent Communications in HDTV format by the programming provider.

#3 (Cable)(DVR) Can I make a VHS tape of a recorded program?

Yes. As you are watching a program you have recorded on your DVR, you can record it to a tape.

#4 (Cable)(DVR) Can I record Digital Music channels?

Yes, you can record and playback Digital Music. However, the playback controls (Pause, FF and REW) are not functional for recorded digital music.

#5 (Cable)(DVR) Can I set the DVR to skip commercials as it is recording?

No. You can only fast forward through commercials if you're watching a previously recorded program.

#6 (Cable)(DVR) Can Midcontinent track what I record with my DVR?

No. What you choose to record with the DVR is private.

#7 (Cable) Do I need special equipment to control which channel is blocked?

No. Midcontinent will block a channel for any subscriber for FREE as part of our service to you. However, you may already have the ability to block certain channels with the equipment you have. Digital subscribers have control options through their digital receiver and most newer televisions are already equipped with a V-Chip that allows the blocking of shows by TV rating. Digital Cable Subscribers: see the i-Guide for instructions. See your television manual for instructions on turning on your V-Chip channel blocking if so equipped.

#8 (Cable) Does FREE Channel Blocking control all TV sets in my house?

Signal blocking by Midcontinent will block a channel to all televisions in your home. V-Chips and Digital Receiver Parental Controls will block channels to specific televisions.

#9 (Internet) How can I avoid getting viruses?

We want your Internet experience to be a good one. That's why we provide FREE virus scans of all incoming and outgoing mail that travels through our email servers. If we find a virus, we'll block it from ever reaching your computer. But that's just one layer of protection. We still recommend that you have a firewall and anti-virus software on your own computer.

The best way to avoid viruses is to NEVER OPEN ATTACHMENTS in your e-mail. If you absolutely need to open attachments, only open those from people you are sure you know, and only when you know they are sending you one.

#10 (Telephone)
How can I make an International call?

Your telephone long distance must be specifically set up to allow International calling. If you subscribe to Midcontinent Long Distance and cannot make an International call, your account is more than likely set up for domestic calling. Please call us at 1-800-888-1300 to set up International calling capabilities. The cost for International calling is a $2.00 monthly fee as well as the International long distance charges. View the current per minute costs of International long distance.

#11 (Cable)
How can I restrict objectionable content on my television?

If a channel consistently presents a problem for your household, you can call Midcontinent Customer service and request that channel be blocked from entering your home. It's simple and it's FREE.

Simply call our customer service department at 1-800-888-1300 and request channel blocking. Or, if you need to change restrictions often, the digital receiver offers many parental controls under settings. Most newer televisions come equipped with a V-Chip. See www.controlyourtv.org for more information on the V-Chip.

#12 (Cable)(DVR)
How do I get information on programs?

While in a listings screen, you can access information by pressing the INFO button on your remote. While you are tuned to a program, press Info once for Instant Information or twice for complete information. Information includes program details like actors, ratings and a brief program synopsis. You can also set Reminders, place Parental Locks, order Pay-Per-View movies and events and see other times the program is airing. To remove the Information Screen and return to watching television, press the EXIT button on the remote.

#13 (Cable)
How do I get out of a screen I'm stuck in?

Press EXIT on your remote control to return to TV "last viewing" mode.

Or, press the LAST key to back you out of the Interactive Guide, one menu at a time.

#14 (Internet)
How do I guard against pop-up ad, spamming, and viruses?

Midcontinent Communications compiled this list of URLs (websites) offering protection against Pop Up Windows, Email Spamming, and Viruses.*

Pop Up guards:
http://www.panicware.com/popupstopper.html
http://www.popupcop.com/?src=gg8
https://www.godaddy.com/gdshop/stealthray/stealthray_rebate.asp?isc=STRgo055a

Spam protection:
http://www.sunbelt-software.com/product.cfm?id=930&affid=google

Virus protection:
http://www.symantec.com/ (Multiple links for Norton/updates, etc.)
http://www.mcafee.com/

Content Filtering:
http://www.internet-security-protection-software.com/
This site gives the top 2 for spam, virus, firewall, privacy, content filtering, etc..

*Websites and software packages mentioned are offered as possible solutions only and should not be considered "recommendations" or "endorsements" by Midcontinent Communications. Conversely, websites or software not mentioned should not be regarded negatively for being absent from this list. You will need to make your own evaluations to determine the best solution for your particular protection requirements. URLs (web addresses) may change.

#15 (Internet)
How do I prevent hackers from getting into my computer?

The best way to prevent any unauthorized access into your home computer is to invest in a Firewall (either hardware or software versions). For more information on firewalls, go to any search engine on the Internet and search for firewall. Firewall software is inexpensive and recommended for your own network security.

#16 (Internet)
How do I reboot my cable modem?

Unplug the small, black power cord from the back of the modem
Check the front of the modem to ensure that all the lights have turned off
After 30 seconds, plug the modem back in
Wait five minutes and try your connections again.

#17 (Cable)(DVR)
How do I record a Pay Per View (PPV) broadcast?

PPV broadcasts must be recorded manually; simply press Record button. You cannot schedule PPV recordings in advance.

#18 (Cable)(DVR)
How do I return to live TV when I'm watching recorded programming?

Simply press the LIVE button on your remote.

#19 (Telephone)
How do I switch my phone service to Midcontinent Communications?

Local Phone Service

If you switch your local telephone service to Midcontinent Communications and choose to keep your existing telephone number(s), Midcontinent Communications will contact your current local service provider to transfer your existing numbers and terminate your existing service.

If you switch your local telephone service to Midcontinent Communications and choose a new Midcontinent Communications telephone number, you must notify your current carrier of the change after your new telephone number has been installed.

Long Distance Phone Service

If you are changing to Midcontinent Communications long distance service, you must notify your current carrier that you want to terminate your long distance service with them. Some carriers will require written authorization.

If you choose to keep your current long distance carrier, you must notify them that Midcontinent Communications is now your local telephone service provider.

Midcontinent Communications realizes you have the right to choose your carriers of choice for local and long distance services. If you would like to change your long distance carrier, please contact your carrier of choice.

#20 (Cable)(DVR)
How do I tell what the icons mean?

You will find descriptive text in the Instant Information area when you have an icon highlighted. This information changes as you move the yellow highlight using the arrow buttons on your remote. Descriptive text appears beneath the row of these icons.

#21 (Cable)(DVR)
How do you make the DVR record two programs at once?

You can set it for two recordings using i-Guide by selecting two different programs listed with overlapping times and pressing the record button or by manually scheduling programs which times overlap. Or, press SWAP while recording to switch to the other tuner. You can then press Record for that tuner.

#22 (Cable)(DVR)
How far back can I rewind live TV?

You can rewind about an hour of standard TV programming as long as you were tuned to the same channel.

#23 (Cable)(DVR)
How long can I keep My Recordings?

You can keep them as long as you want. Just remember, the recording space is limited, so you may need to delete some recorded programs from time to time in order to make room for new ones.

#24 (Cable)(DVR)
How long can I pause live TV?

You can pause up to 90 minutes of standard programming; less with analog and HD programming. Minutes may vary.

#25 (DVR)
How many other home entertainment components can be connected to my DVR?

Two: your television and one other component (VCR, DVD player, or audio).

#26 (Cable)(DVR)
How many tuners does my DVR have?

Your DVR has two tuners to that you can, 1) record two channels at the same time, 2) record one and watch the other or 3) record two channels and watch a 3rd program from your DVR recordings library.

#27 (Cable)(DVR)
How much high definition programming can I save versus standard definition programming?

You can record up to 60 hours of standard digital TV, 25 hours of analog or up to 15 hours of HDTV (depending on the transmission bit rate). Recording times may vary.

#28 (Cable)(DVR)
How will I know when I'm almost out of recording space?

An on-screen message will appear advising you when recording space is low (80% full) or full. You can also manually delete recordings and manage recording space from the recorded program's Information Screen.

#29 (Internet)
I cannot get on the Internet and the cable connection light on the front of my modem is flashing, what can I do?

First reboot your modem. Then unplug the network cable (Ethernet or USB–whichever one you have connected to the modem) and plug it in again, ensuring there is a solid connection. Wait 30 minutes for the cable light to turn solid green. Once it does, reboot your computer. If it does not, call our support number and one of our reps will be able to troubleshoot further.

#30 (Cable)(DVR)
I cannot order Pay-Per-View, what should I do?

Has your last payment been received prior to the next billing cycle? If not, PPV access is temporarily disabled. Once payment is made, PPV will be available.
If payment is current, check to see if PPV is active on your set top box:
1. Press the MENU key twice
2. Page down and select SETUP menu
3. Select CABLE BOX SET UP
4. Arrow down to CONFIGURATION and press OK
5. On the right side of the screen you will see IPPV. If YES is present, you should be able to order PPV. If NO is present, PPV has been disabled.
Call Midcontinent Communications at 1-800-888-1300 for additional assistance.

#31 (Cable)(DVR)
I have a home theater system. Can I record a program in Dolby Digital™ 5.1 on my DVR?

As long as the program is being broadcast in digital audio, the DVR will record the digital audio portion. A Dolby Digital indicator will appear on the Flip Bar for programs that are broadcast in Dolby Audio.

#32 (Cable)
I have lost power to my set top box. My TV Guide says "To Be Announced". What do I do?

If power has been lost to the box, the TV Guide information needs to be reloaded. This process could take up to 1 hour to restore information.

#33 (Internet)
I just bought a new cable modem. How do I get my account adjusted?

Before you purchase a cable modem, call us to ensure that the type of cable modem you are going to purchase is compatible with MidcoNet^® service. Once you have the modem, please provide us with the brand name, serial number, model number and the MAC address (also known as an Ethernet address).

#34 (Internet)
I keep getting "General Protection Fault", "Invalid Page Fault", "Application caused an Illegal Operation..." errors. What are these?

These are errors caused by one or more of the various programs running on your computer at the same time. The best way to deal with these is to record what program causes these errors, and contact either that software’s manufacturer or your computer’s manufacturer and tell them of the error you are getting.

#35 (Cable)(DVR)
If I have lost power, will I lose my Parental/Purchase Codes, Favorites, Reminders or Locks?

No, you will not lose this information. This information is stored in the memory of your set-top-box. If you want to ensure that your children will not view restricted programming while the programming information is being downloaded, you can set locks to be in place until the program information is available. To set locks in case of loss of power:

Press the MENU key twice
Page down and select SETUP menu
Select PINs Setup
Arrow down to "If power is lost, would you like to lock all programs until ratings and titles are restore?" Make sure answer is YES.

#36 (Cable)(DVR)
If I'm watching a program in progress and want to record it, can I record from the beginning?

No. Currently, the DVR begins recording at the point in the program you pressed RECORD.

#37 (Cable)
If the power goes out, do I need to reset my Lock Out and Purchase codes, Favorite Channels, Reminders, and Locks?

No. These are maintained in the Midcontinent Communications’ Digital Cable set-top box memory.

#38 (Cable)
My cable is not working, what should I do?

Check other TVs to see if the problem is localized to one TV or if all TVs are impacted.
Check to see if the VCR/DVD player is on. If VCR/DVD player is on, turn it off and try the cable channels again.
Is the Digital Cable set-top box hooked up properly? The correct order for connecting the Digital Cable set-top box from the wall to the TV is:
1. Wall to DCT
2. DCT to VCR/DVD player
3. VCR/DVD player to games (if any)
4. VCR/DVD to TV (if no games) Games to TV (if games)
Check the cable connections to make sure they are tight.
Check to see if the TV is set to channel 3.

#39 (Cable)
My remote is not working, what should I do?

Make sure there is no obstruction between the remote and the Digital Cable set-top box
Make sure the set-top box is working by turning the power on from the front of the set-top box. If the box powers on; troubleshoot the remote.
Remote may not be in cable mode
- Press CBL button on remote and press POWER button
Batteries may be dead
- Press CBL button, if light flashes red, batteries are OK
- If no red light, replace AA batteries
If batteries have been recently replaced make sure they are correctly inserted in remote

#40 (Cable)(DVR)
On occasion, a recording starts a minute or two after the program has begun. Why?

The DVR timer is synchronized with the program guide time. If a broadcaster starts the program a minute earlier than the program guide's scheduled time, the DVR will miss that first minute. You can program your DVR to start early or end late by adjusting your Recording Options.

#41 (Internet)
The Internet connection indicator on the front of my modem is flashing and I can't view webpages, what can I do?

First, shut down your computer.

Second, power down your cable modem (and router if you have one). This is done by unplugging the small, black power cord from the back of your cable modem (and router if you have one) for at least one minute.

Next, power up your cable modem (and router if you have one) by plugging in the power cord(s). Wait up to 30 minutes for the connection indicator to turn solid green. (Most times this process will take just a few minutes. Refer to your cable modem user guide to see what indicates a good connection. On Midcontinent supplied cable modems, it is the "Cable" light.)

Restart your computer. When it is restarted, open your browser software and see if you can reload a webpage. If you cannot, please call our support number and one of our reps will be able to help you troubleshoot your connection problem.

#42 (Internet)
The power light is off on my modem. What does that mean?

That means that there is no power going to your modem. Check all the cables on the back of the modem to make sure they are plugged in tightly and check the power pack to see it is plugged into the wall outlet. If they are, and the light is still off, move the modem to a different wall outlet that you are sure is working. If you still have no light, please call our support number, 1-800-888-1300.

#43 (Telephone)
What are the taxes and fees on my telephone bill?

Residential Access Line Charge: Authorized by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for providing access to and maintenance of the local network.

Local Number Portability: The FCC allows telephone companies to add this charge to all telephone lines. This fee compensates the companies for their work in creating systems in which people who change local telephone companies can take their telephone number with them.

Hearing Impaired Surcharge: State government imposes this monthly charge which helps to provide telephone services to the hearing impaired.

State and Federal Taxes: This is the amount of your State and Federal taxes which varies by your location. All telephone companies assess the same percentages.

Federal Universal Service Fund: supports telecommunication needs of consumers in low-income households, schools, libraries and rural healthcare providers.

Gross Receipts Tax: The Gross Receipts tax is on gross receipts derived from the furnishing of telephone services at the rate of 4%. The service provider collects the tax and reports the collections annually to the Department of Revenue.

Federal Excise Tax: Taxes mandated by the federal government. They are imposed on local and wireless telephone services.

Federal TRS & Administration Fee: Federal Telecom Relay Service (TRS)fee is a fee on all carriers providing interstate telecommunications must support TRS, which enables telephone conversations between people with speech/hearing impairments and those without. The Federal TRS surcharged is assessed as a percentage of interstate toll charges.

#44 (Telephone)
What can I do to reduce the number of calls I receive from telephone solicitors?

You can place your name on the National Do No Call registry. Here is the contact information:

National Registry
Visit www.donotcall.gov or call 1-888-382-1222

Minnesota:
Minnesota Department of Commerce
85 7th Place East, Suite 500
St. Paul, MN 55101
800-921-4110
www.commerce.state.mn.us

North Dakota:
Call the national registry number 800-382-1222
ndag@state.nd.us
www.ag.state.nd.us/nocall/nocall.htm

South Dakota:
Call the national registry number 800-382-1222
www.sddonotcall.com

#45 (Internet)
What does "This page cannot be displayed" mean and how do I fix it?

This error means that the browser cannot find the page on the Internet. It is caused by either not having access to the Internet or a typing mistake in the web address.

Either retype the web address or try another web site.
Reboot your modem by unplugging the power to the modem for 30 seconds. Plug the modem back in to the power supply, wait five minutes and try again.
If problem still persists; please call us at 1-800-888-1300 for assistance.

#46 (Cable)
What does it cost to block channels I feel are inappropriate?

Nothing. It is a FREE service from Midcontinent.

Even if we have to send a truck to your home to manually block a channel, there is no charge for this service because Midcontinent is dedicated to giving you control over content you wish to block.

#47 (Cable)(DVR)
What if I missed a Pay-Per-View movie or event that I ordered?

Unless you tune into the program or set up a DVR recording for the program purchased you will not be charged.

#48 (Cable)(DVR)
What if the program I want to record runs over its scheduled airtime such as when a football game goes into overtime? How can I make sure I record everything?

Change the Record Options for the program. Adjust the start and end times for the recording to ensure everything gets recorded.

#49 (Internet)
What is a firewall?

A firewall blocks hackers from getting into your computer and stealing personal information such as credit card numbers and bank account numbers. With your MidcoNet^® connection always on, we recommend you get one. A firewall program is different than a virus protection program, which only screens for computer viruses.

#50 (Internet)
What is my IP address?

An IP address is needed to connect to the Internet. There are two kinds of IP addresses: Dynamic and Static. The Midcontinent Communications Internet network is dynamically based; your IP address can potentially be different every time you connect. If you wish to use a static IP address, please contact MidcoNet^® Customer Service (extra monthly fee of $20.00 applies.)

#51 (HDTV)
What is the difference between HD and Digital?

HD is an enhanced digital signal, offering a significant difference in visual and audio quality. You'll enjoy a higher screen resolution (6 times sharper picture) and a wider screen format for more vivid colors and better action HD is as close as you can get to watching a film at the movie theater. In addition, on televisions with Dolby digital sound, high definition audio is absolutely incredible.

#52 (Cable)(DVR)
What is the graphic bar that appears when I change channels?

The Flip Bar appears for a few seconds as you're changing channels to provide important information about programs.

#53 (Cable)
What is the V-Chip?

The V-Chip is built into televisions so that parents can control what type of content a TV is able to show. For complete information on the V-Chip, visit www.ControlYourTV.org.

#54 (Telephone)
What phone features do you offer with your telephone product and how do they work?

Midcontinent Communications offers a variety of phone features. View our telephone feature offerings.

#55 (Telephone)
What should I do if I don't have a dial tone?

Check other phones to see if the dial tone is lost only on one phone or all of them.
If you have a wireless phone, check the batteries and make sure it is plugged in.
If you have a wireless phone, try to use a corded phone in the phone jack to see if it works.
If there is still no dial tone, take your corded phone outside to the demarc (the box outside of the house where the phone line leads in to). Open the box and plug the phone in. If you have dial tone at the demarc, the phone services are connected and you may be experiencing a problem with your inside wiring. If this is the case, please contact an electrician or contractor to repair the wires.
If the issue cannot be resolved with the above troubleshooting steps or you would like help troubleshooting, please contact us at 1-800-888-1300.

#56 (DVR)
What should I do it I forget the Parental or Purchasing lock codes?

You must call Midcontinent to have these PINs reset. All of the PINs will be cleared. Once reset, you will need to enter new PINs.

Call our Customer Service Department at 1-800-888-1300 select option 1 for current subscribers then choose option 1 for cable services. We are available 24x7 to help reset your passwords.

#57 (HDTV)
What type of equipment will I need to receive the HD signal?

All you need is an HDTV, an HD receiver available from Midcontinent Communications and access to Midcontinent Communications HD cable TV service.

#58 (Cable)
When in BROWSE and FLIP mode, why am I skipping over channels?

You are probably in Favorite Channel mode. To exit this mode, press the FAV key on the remote. The BROWSE/FLIP bar will display the word FAVORITE when in Favorite Channel mode.

#59 (HDTV)
When will HD channels be available?

In some areas local broadcasters offer an HD signal for their programs. Many cable networks are currently working to broadcast HD signals, and we will bring those to you as soon as possible. If your area has HD available from Midcontinent Communications, check our channel listings for the HD channels you can receive from Midcontinent Communications. You must subscribe to the Premium Movie Packages in order to receive them in HD format.

#60 (HDTV)
When will High Definition Cable Service be available?

HD is available now in several areas. We are adding new towns and cities as we are able. Call 1-800-888-1300 for more information on HD for your town.

#61 (HDTV)
Which type of HDTV should I purchase?

That decision is a personal one, and depends largely on the type of TV viewing you enjoy most. Sports enthusiasts may opt to buy a different model than movie buffs based on the number of scan lines and number of pixels per line. You can call the HDTV experts at Midcontinent Communications at 1-800-888-1300.

#62 (Cable)
Why am I getting sound out of only one speaker?

You may have a loose connection. You should check the back of your TV, speakers and Midcontinent Communications’ Digital Cable set-top box to make sure all cables are connected properly, that no wires are frayed, and no plugs are bent or broken.

#63 (Cable)(DVR)(HDTV)(Internet)(Telephone)
Why does my first bill seem to have more than a month's worth of service charges?

Midcontinent Communications bills are generated once a month and charges are billed one month in advance. If you have recently installed or upgraded services, there is partial month billing for the current statement month plus one month in advance.

In the event that you have downgraded or disconnected services, you will be credited for the days remaining in the current statement month.

#64 (Internet)
Why does my Internet speed seem to be slower?

Internet speed depends on several things, ranging from location of the web site you are looking at the number of people accessing a site and a computers memory capacity. Adware or spyware will also slow down the speed of your computer making virus protection and firewall very important.

If you are experiencing slow speeds all the time reboot your modem by unplugging the power to the modem for 30 seconds. Plug the modem back in to the power supply, wait five minutes and try again.
If you are experiencing slow speeds going from page to page, but other speeds are OK, your browsers cache size may be set incorrectly:
1. From Internet Explorer, click on Tools menu.
2. Scroll down to Internet Options (PC) on MAC go to Preferences under Explorer menu heading
3. Click on the Setting button located in the Temporary Internet Files area
4. Set the cache size to be somewhere between 1MB – 10MB and make sure it is selected to always check for a new version of the page
  In Netscape Navigator, go to Edit, then Preferences. In the Advanced area, there should be a cache window where you will have similar options

#65 (Cable)(DVR)
Why doesn’t my set top box respond when I press the keys on my remote?

Check your remote by following the troubleshooting steps under "My remote is not working"
Make sure that the remote is being pointed at the set-top-box and not the TV
Make sure there is power to the set top box
Try the buttons on the front of the set top box to turn it on or change channels
Call Midcontinent Communications at 1-800-888-1300 for additional troubleshooting steps or to schedule a home service call.

#66 (HDTV)
Will HD service cost more?

The answer to this question depends upon your current Midcontinent Cable Service.

Current Midcontinent Digital Cable Package subscribers with a HD/DVR service upgrade: no additional charge for HD service.

Current Midcontinent Digital Cable Package subscribers: an additional $9.00 per month to upgrade to an HD/DVR receiver.

Current Midcontinent Cable subscribers without a Digital Package: an additional $16.00 per month for HD/DVR service.

#67 (HDTV)
Will I eventually HAVE to buy an HDTV in order to watch TV?

Eventually all broadcasters will convert to digital TV. When this happens, you will need either a TV set capable of displaying digital TV that may or may not be HD, or you will need some sort of converter.

Questions? 1-800-888-1300 | Contact Us