Verizon FIOS T.V. question - set top box on new COAX line not working.

I recently split a Verizon FIOS cable (COAX) using a 3:1 splitter where it had been 2:1.  Originally, one line coming out of the 2:1 splitter went to a set top box.  The other line was split 2:1 again with one line going to another set top box and one line going to the Verizon router.

With the 3:1 splitter, all of the original connections still work.  However, the new connnection does not work properly.  It is connected to a set top box.  The set top box can detect a signal and I get the Verizon guide, but when I select a channel, a message appears saying that the channel is unavailable.  It obviously isn't unavailable since the channel works on other T.V.s in the house.  If I take this particular set top box and T.V. and connect it to another line, it works.

So, I am a bit mystified.

Is is possible that there is enough signal loss on this line so that the line works only partially meaning that the set top box can detect the signal and perform the initial FIOS download but can't send the channel content?

I think the guide comes on as a separate data stream. So it seems entirely possible.

This cabling is sensitive to quality of wiring. Splitters are made much too cheaply, so replace yours without even knowing if it's bad or not. Make sure the connectors on the ends of the cables are well crimped and make good contact, and make sure there are no short circuits in the connectors. Screw the connectors into the splitter with a wrench to make sure they're good and tight. Don't just hand tighten them. Go through all of your cable connections with a wrench, and I don't mean a pair of pliers.

Tom_Reingold said:

This cabling is sensitive to quality of wiring. Splitters are made much too cheaply, so replace yours without even knowing if it's bad or not. Make sure the connectors on the ends of the cables are well crimped and make good contact, and make sure there are no short circuits in the connectors. Screw the connectors into the splitter with a wrench to make sure they're good and tight. Don't just hand tighten them. Go through all of your cable connections with a wrench, and I don't mean a pair of pliers.

I suspect the splitter or the new cable line because the other two lines out of the splitter are fine.

FiOS has some specific requirements for splitters. Look to the Google for details.

qrysdonnell said:

FiOS has some specific requirements for splitters. Look to the Google for details.

Unfortunately I did and the answer isn't exactly cookbook other than the explanation of the type of COAX cable.

FIOS requires splitters that handle more bandwidth, greater than 1Ghz (1.7 is the number I remember). If you have splitters with that capability already, then try switching them. I had problems until I put the higher-priced splitter first, lower-priced second. I'm assuming the signal loss from the lower-priced one put the longer run out of spec.

Found this on help desk: FIOS uses 5-1000 mhm two-way splitters.

I believe it has to be bidirectional in order for the router and set top box to communicate. Are both STB showing up as working on the router admin page? 192.168.1.1?

You have a  1=> 3 splitter.  One of the 3 lines is not working properly.  Take the bad line and switch it with a working line.  Result should tell you if the splitter or wiring is at fault.

Apollo_T said:

You have a  1=> 3 splitter.  One of the 3 lines is not working properly.  Take the bad line and switch it with a working line.  Result should tell you if the splitter or wiring is at fault.

I tried that.  I am beginning to think that the new run of coax (about 16 feet) is bad and will try replacing that.

The result of that test should tell you what you need to know.  If the non performing stb still is bad the prob is in the line or box.  If it works, the prob is in the splitter.  Also, jiggle the wire at the connection ends to see if that affects performance.