Comcast is “enhancing” their network, converting all but the Limited Basic channels to digital only.  This is NOT the government mandated digital transition, which would require no additional set-top boxes for cable-connected TV’s.  This is Comcast’s on upgrade, and one that requires a digital box, if you want to continue to receive channels above 35, including CNN, Fox, MSNBC, ESPN, USA, MTV, USA, LIFE – just to name a few.

They are sending out flyers now (so don’t throw it in junk mail), and you can sign up for two free boxes at www.comcast/digitalnow, or call a customer service number.  I have both digital box connected and standalone TV’s in the house, so decided to act now, before I forget.  You can guess which option I took: wait on the phone or get done in a few clicks…

Oops!  System Unavailable: call a number. In fact call it twice, once to order, then again to activate.  A rather analogue way to start the digital transition.  Comcast: FAIL.

Update (2/8/09):  Tweeting it up with @comcastcares.  Will see if this helps …

Update (2/9/09):  The error message is now changed from “System Unavailable” to “Please Call Us”.  This might give the impression there is something with your account, rather than a system error.  I guess that’s a way of “fixing” the problem.

Please Call Us
We apologize, but we are unable to process your request online. To order digital devices, please call 1-877-634-4434. To activate digital devices you’ve already received, please call 1-888-634-4434

Update (2/26/09): 3 weeks later the error is still not fixed.  The Web site Comcast’s mass mail points to is dead.  I guess not even @comcastcares has magic powers…

Tags: comcast, comcast digital, comcast outage, digital cable, digital tv, fail, outage