Bobcat
newbie
Posts: 18
Reg: 12-10-11
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01-25-12 11:10 AM - Post#144618
I've been waiting for this day for quite awhile. Until recently, neither AT&T Uvere or Verison FIOS was available in my area. I got an email last week from AT&T indicating Uverse was finally available in my area, so I signed up. Getting AT&T UVerse installed today, can't wait to make that call to TWC...
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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01-25-12 11:11 AM - Post#144620
In response to Bobcat
Congrats! You'll love UVerse! Welcome to the club!
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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01-25-12 12:42 PM - Post#144623
In response to EnjoyingLife
Don't be discouraged if it takes a few visits to get everything tweaked just right. Uverse is very sensitive and you'll most likely end up with a bunch of new coax cable run through your home but it's all worth it. The way AT&T bills is mind boggling and it will take multiple cycles to finally get to a reasonably stable bill. If you have any complaints, be sure to speak to the retention group because they have the authority to make things right. Several items on my first bill were incorrect and the retention department credited tons off my bill as well as added features for free just for the inconvenience. Good luck. Once they have it right, it's very cool.
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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Joe Armstrong
member
Posts: 33
Reg: 01-06-12
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01-25-12 01:41 PM - Post#144626
In response to MissingChico
Did I see the words "Good Luck" and when they "Have it right"? Luck you will need unless you are a tech kind of person because they are not.
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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01-25-12 02:12 PM - Post#144629
In response to Joe Armstrong
Had my Uverse installed over a year ago and never had to "tweak" anything.
Don't let the installer use coax...UVerse runs on Cat5 and make them use it rather than your existing coax! The installer tried to do that with me but I didn't fall for it.
They'll get it right, just don't let them cut corners when doing the install.
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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01-25-12 05:20 PM - Post#144640
In response to EnjoyingLife
We love Uverse! It was great to finally fire Time Warner!
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SB
enthusiast
Posts: 1135
Reg: 09-07-03
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01-25-12 08:57 PM - Post#144648
In response to StacyLynn624
I've never had any service problems with TWC while in Allen. What features of U-verse attracted you all?
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bricor
member
Posts: 66
Reg: 04-04-07
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01-25-12 10:27 PM - Post#144650
In response to EnjoyingLife
Had my Uverse installed over a year ago and never had to "tweak" anything.
Don't let the installer use coax...UVerse runs on Cat5 and make them use it rather than your existing coax! The installer tried to do that with me but I didn't fall for it.
They'll get it right, just don't let them cut corners when doing the install.
Uverse can use either and depending on the install, may be limited to one or the other.
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Gary
enthusiast
Posts: 369
Reg: 06-25-01
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01-25-12 11:33 PM - Post#144652
In response to bricor
I would be interested in learning more about your configuration and how they did the installatino.
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bricor
member
Posts: 66
Reg: 04-04-07
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01-25-12 11:46 PM - Post#144653
In response to Gary
Don't have Uverse myself, just deal with it all the time with my customers.
Using cat 5 is usually best but sometimes the only way they can install is to use coax. Sometimes they use both, just depends on location, wiring in the house, wiring to the house, distance, etc. (I can't keep it straight, lol)
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Bobcat
newbie
Posts: 18
Reg: 12-10-11
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01-26-12 10:27 AM - Post#144657
In response to EnjoyingLife
Had my Uverse installed over a year ago and never had to "tweak" anything.
Don't let the installer use coax...UVerse runs on Cat5 and make them use it rather than your existing coax! The installer tried to do that with me but I didn't fall for it.
They'll get it right, just don't let them cut corners when doing the install.
The installer was at our house for about 3 hours, but not sure he installed any new wiring.
What potential problems should we look for if they did use the existing coax cable instead of installing the Cat5?
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bricor
member
Posts: 66
Reg: 04-04-07
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01-26-12 10:44 AM - Post#144659
In response to Bobcat
Typical problems would be internet cutting out, pixelation of TV picture or loosing it all together.
Its usually from poor connections or multiple splitters in line of the coax. But I've found AT&T to be very aggressive with pushing Uverse in areas that are too far from the VRAD to get decent service. So any problems you have could also stem back to the fact they sold you service they shouldn't have in the first place. If you have fiber to your home, the potential for problems is far lower. Seems like the installs using existing phone wiring to the house is where the above type of problems arise. (supposed to be within 2000' or something like that)
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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01-26-12 11:20 AM - Post#144661
In response to bricor
We get more channels with Uverse, more HD channels that we watch with Uverse. We had just switched to Full House DVR with Time Warner, and the boxes were horrible. The fast forward was awful, and it was very difficult to use. This DVR is very smooth and very easy to use. The guide is simple and even has live previews of the other channels you scroll on. The caller ID from our phone shows up on our TV screen. The picture is clearer on the tv and the internet is faster.
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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01-26-12 11:21 AM - Post#144663
In response to StacyLynn624
Plus, we can record 4 things at one time, which may seem trivial, until there's 3 things you want to watch at 7pm on Monday that aren't available on On demand.
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bricor
member
Posts: 66
Reg: 04-04-07
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01-26-12 11:45 AM - Post#144666
In response to StacyLynn624
Compared to Time Warner, those are valid positives and the features are very convenient.
Directv with separate internet or Fios are even better (not necessarily cheaper but better quality)
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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01-26-12 12:30 PM - Post#144668
In response to Bobcat
Had my Uverse installed over a year ago and never had to "tweak" anything.
Don't let the installer use coax...UVerse runs on Cat5 and make them use it rather than your existing coax! The installer tried to do that with me but I didn't fall for it.
They'll get it right, just don't let them cut corners when doing the install.
The installer was at our house for about 3 hours, but not sure he installed any new wiring.
What potential problems should we look for if they did use the existing coax cable instead of installing the Cat5?
Bobcat,
I wouldn't be too concerned if it's either Cat -5 or coax. Cat-5 brings it's own unique problems and is susceptible to more interference from other things in your home such as electrical wiring, lighting, etc. If I have one complaint about Uverse, it's the DVR. The whole device seems less responsive than TW or Dish. Deleting a show can take 10 seconds. The remote control does not follow much of the same logic as others too. To me it seems they positioned some of the commonly used buttons in very poor locations. Other than these little things that I've mostly adjusted to, Uverse has been great. Shannon, the tech in my area was really dedicated to having everything right and that was impressive.
If you're thinking of having Uverse installed, do your research first. AT&T is very aggressive in this area and it's quite easy to end up with $300 worth of Visa gift cares, extra free receivers and other things to get you onboard.
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
Edited by MissingChico on 01-26-12 12:38 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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Joe Armstrong
member
Posts: 33
Reg: 01-06-12
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01-26-12 01:21 PM - Post#144671
In response to MissingChico
Whoever designed the remotes obviously does not use them....
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vm7mm
enthusiast
Posts: 1381
Loc: Allen Tx usa
Reg: 08-12-04
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01-26-12 01:46 PM - Post#144673
In response to Joe Armstrong
What would the monthly charge be for expanded cable TV and internet after the six or twelve month period?
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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01-26-12 02:27 PM - Post#144674
In response to vm7mm
Keep in mind I took the "everything" package for the first year, but if you work them enough, you can have the 450 channel pkg, 25mb internet and two home phone numbers for around $160 / mo
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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01-26-12 02:49 PM - Post#144676
In response to MissingChico
I don't have a problem with the remotes or the DVR. We've been using both for 2 days, and it's pretty smooth to me.
We have an employee in our household, so we get a discount and it was cheaper to get all three services than it was to pay TW for cable. We've been waiting for them to flip the switch, and made the appointment as soon as we started receiving the emails that it was available. It's going to save us about $35 a month.
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Bobcat
newbie
Posts: 18
Reg: 12-10-11
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01-26-12 03:31 PM - Post#144678
In response to StacyLynn624
I have the Bose Cinemate Series II speaker system and the tech could not figure out how to get it to work with their remote. Any chance anyone of you has had a similar problem?
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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01-26-12 03:49 PM - Post#144680
In response to Bobcat
I have the Bose Cinemate Series II speaker system and the tech could not figure out how to get it to work with their remote. Any chance anyone of you has had a similar problem?
Does this help?
http://forums.att.com/t5/Receivers/Instruct ion-on-...
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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Bobcat
newbie
Posts: 18
Reg: 12-10-11
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01-26-12 04:01 PM - Post#144681
In response to MissingChico
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Bobcat
newbie
Posts: 18
Reg: 12-10-11
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01-27-12 11:05 AM - Post#144714
In response to Bobcat
It's only been two days and I'm really loving this Uverse. No more pixilation and no more of the annoying error code "This channel will be available shortly Error Code: S0600" which occurred on a daily basis.
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SB
enthusiast
Posts: 1135
Reg: 09-07-03
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01-27-12 01:05 PM - Post#144718
In response to Bobcat
Anyone include the u-verse phone as part of their package?
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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01-27-12 01:26 PM - Post#144719
In response to SB
Anyone include the u-verse phone as part of their package?
We have two Uverse phone lines with unlimited long distance. So far, the service has been quite good. They're VOIP and when we first had them set up, you could hear a slight bit of bleed over when the the second line would ring while talking on the first, but this has since gone away. I also have the new Magic Jack that doesn't need a PC to plug into. To be honest, the quality with it is every bit as good.
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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01-27-12 01:53 PM - Post#144720
In response to Joe Armstrong
Ditto! The layout of the remote does stink but you get used to it. As far the DVR, it's slow like all the others I've in the past (TW, Dish and Directv). Not sure why these cable companies can't come up with a fast/responsive DVR unit. Even moving around in the Guide is slow on the DVR compared to the non-DVR unit I have. Oh well, service is great and anyone who subscribes will be happy.
FYI...when you're discounts expire, just call AT&T and they'll get you hooked up with another discount.
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Al C
enthusiast
Posts: 5538
Loc: McKinney/Allen, TX
Reg: 02-16-01
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01-27-12 02:01 PM - Post#144721
In response to SB
Anyone include the u-verse phone as part of their package?
Recently got the phone added to my uverse service. Sounds just like it did before ... only cheaper.
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starrlac
enthusiast
Posts: 643
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 11-03-00
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01-27-12 03:18 PM - Post#144725
In response to SB
We had Uverse Voice for about a year and didn't have any problems with it. It has some nice features, but we used it so little that we couldn't justify the cost. We have switched to Majic Jack plus (where you don't have to leave the computer on, it plugs into the router) and we are very happy with it. I also get an email when there is a voice mail and can listen to it from the email. Very convenient, good sound, and the price can't be beat.
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starrlac
enthusiast
Posts: 643
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 11-03-00
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01-27-12 03:20 PM - Post#144726
In response to starrlac
Oh, and when I called to cancel Voice, I was told to keep the battery backup for the router (which is nice because our cell phones can use wifi even in a power outage) and we were given a deal for faster internet and a lower cost that we would have had by just dropping the phone. I have never had anything but great customer service from ATT...for phone, DSL, or Uverse.
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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01-27-12 04:59 PM - Post#144727
In response to starrlac
We've had it for about 4 days, and no complaints. We've watched on demand, dvr, used the phone and interent. It's great! Much better than TWC cable. We had AT&T Dsl and phone before.
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vm7mm
enthusiast
Posts: 1381
Loc: Allen Tx usa
Reg: 08-12-04
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01-28-12 11:12 AM - Post#144743
In response to MissingChico
Keep in mind I took the "everything" package for the first year, but if you work them enough, you can have the 450 channel pkg, 25mb internet and two home phone numbers for around $160 / mo
Thanks
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Bobcat
newbie
Posts: 18
Reg: 12-10-11
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01-30-12 05:45 PM - Post#144787
In response to MissingChico
I tried the codes listed in this link, as well as a few others found on the same forum, none of them worked.
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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03-01-12 01:01 PM - Post#146078
In response to Bobcat
So Bobcat,
Curious how you're feeling about Uverse after the first month. I just received a statement showing an added $5.00 late fee while the same bill clearly shows my last payment received Feb 1. AT&T will consistently nickle and dime you to death.
7. Federal Universal Service Fund 4.83
8. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.34
11. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.59
12. TX Local Video Facilities Fee 0.94
13. TX Local Video Service Franchise Fee 4.69
4. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.07
Not to mention, I'm on hold with them now regarding a $5.00 late fee added to my account on the 1st day of the month which was the exact date they received my payment.
Payment - 02/01 $180.00CR
02/01 Past Due Collection Fee 01/29/2012 5.00
Who makes the 1st day of the month a late day?
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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mgrayar
enthusiast
Posts: 3162
Reg: 09-25-09
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03-01-12 01:11 PM - Post#146079
In response to MissingChico
What did the bill say the due date was? It's usually clearly marked in the Due Date box.
Learn more about Cystic Fibrosis and how you can help at:
http://www.cff.org
Everyone can make a difference! |
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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03-01-12 01:28 PM - Post#146080
In response to mgrayar
01/29/12 , but I've had this changed no less than 3 times. I have automated payments set up for all "Fixed" amount bills for the 4th of every month and anything that fluctuates I do manually between the 1st and 5th. AT&T keeps reverting it back to a date that makes it easy to collect an additional $5. I think it's just another AT&T tactic.
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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mgrayar
enthusiast
Posts: 3162
Reg: 09-25-09
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03-01-12 02:04 PM - Post#146085
In response to MissingChico
You can setup auto draft and avoid these issues. I would still check the bill for potential errors, but you'll never be late.
Learn more about Cystic Fibrosis and how you can help at:
http://www.cff.org
Everyone can make a difference! |
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javaprincess
member
Posts: 65
Reg: 06-01-10
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03-01-12 02:25 PM - Post#146086
In response to mgrayar
We used to have AT&T automatically charge to our credit card on the due date every month. Worst case if they mess up your bill and refuse to fix it you can dispute it with your credit card company.
Also I hated those misc fees AT&T charged us. We switched from Uverse to Directv and we now pay only sales tax on top of the monthly plan cost. A few months ago we switched from Uverse voice to regular phone line thinking that we'd save money, well the bill each month came to around $28!!! That's just a basic touch tone phone line, no caller id, call waiting or nothing. And it wasn't even an extended area number. I got so fed up I just went to amazon.com and bought an Ooma box. Now I only pay a $4 fee a month, which is what the government charges, not Ooma.
Sorry, didn't mean to hijack the topic and turn it into "Finally I say goodbye to AT&T", but the mention of the fees obviously touched my nerve!
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Bobcat
newbie
Posts: 18
Reg: 12-10-11
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03-01-12 02:43 PM - Post#146087
In response to MissingChico
So Bobcat,
Curious how you're feeling about Uverse after the first month. I just received a statement showing an added $5.00 late fee while the same bill clearly shows my last payment received Feb 1. AT&T will consistently nickle and dime you to death.
7. Federal Universal Service Fund 4.83
8. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.34
11. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.59
12. TX Local Video Facilities Fee 0.94
13. TX Local Video Service Franchise Fee 4.69
4. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.07
Not to mention, I'm on hold with them now regarding a $5.00 late fee added to my account on the 1st day of the month which was the exact date they received my payment.
Payment - 02/01 $180.00CR
02/01 Past Due Collection Fee 01/29/2012 5.00
Who makes the 1st day of the month a late day?
I absolutely LOVE it.... no more pixelation since I switched over.
My old Time Warner bills also had these "nickel & dime" fees so it's not just an AT&T thing.
By bundling my services with Uverse, I'm paying about $35 less per month pre-tax than I was before for tv, phone, & internet, not to mention more channels & unlimited long distance calls within the 48 contigous US states.
The only billing issue was my "final" bill for the analog phone & internet service I had before bundling. Since they pro-rated the month I switched, they overlapped and billed me a couple of days on both the analog final bill and the initial Uverse bill. For my troubles, they gave me a $20 credit towards next month's bill.
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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03-01-12 03:01 PM - Post#146092
In response to javaprincess
We used to have AT&T automatically charge to our credit card on the due date every month. Worst case if they mess up your bill and refuse to fix it you can dispute it with your credit card company.
Also I hated those misc fees AT&T charged us. We switched from Uverse to Directv and we now pay only sales tax on top of the monthly plan cost. A few months ago we switched from Uverse voice to regular phone line thinking that we'd save money, well the bill each month came to around $28!!! That's just a basic touch tone phone line, no caller id, call waiting or nothing. And it wasn't even an extended area number. I got so fed up I just went to amazon.com and bought an Ooma box. Now I only pay a $4 fee a month, which is what the government charges, not Ooma.
Sorry, didn't mean to hijack the topic and turn it into "Finally I say goodbye to AT&T", but the mention of the fees obviously touched my nerve!
You should really look at the latest MagicJack offering. The new MagicJack no longer requires a PC and operates independently with a broadband connection. Truth be told, the quality exceeds the VOIP I'm receiving from AT&T and cost me literally $60 for five years of unlimited service. I call internationally for pennies a min plus as a member, they give you an 800# to use from a mobile phone when you're not home.
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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03-01-12 03:06 PM - Post#146093
In response to Bobcat
So Bobcat,
Curious how you're feeling about Uverse after the first month. I just received a statement showing an added $5.00 late fee while the same bill clearly shows my last payment received Feb 1. AT&T will consistently nickle and dime you to death.
7. Federal Universal Service Fund 4.83
8. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.34
11. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.59
12. TX Local Video Facilities Fee 0.94
13. TX Local Video Service Franchise Fee 4.69
4. State Cost-Recovery Fee 0.07
Not to mention, I'm on hold with them now regarding a $5.00 late fee added to my account on the 1st day of the month which was the exact date they received my payment.
Payment - 02/01 $180.00CR
02/01 Past Due Collection Fee 01/29/2012 5.00
Who makes the 1st day of the month a late day?
I absolutely LOVE it.... no more pixelation since I switched over.
My old Time Warner bills also had these "nickel & dime" fees so it's not just an AT&T thing.
By bundling my services with Uverse, I'm paying about $35 less per month pre-tax than I was before for tv, phone, & internet, not to mention more channels & unlimited long distance calls within the 48 contigous US states.
The only billing issue was my "final" bill for the analog phone & internet service I had before bundling. Since they pro-rated the month I switched, they overlapped and billed me a couple of days on both the analog final bill and the initial Uverse bill. For my troubles, they gave me a $20 credit towards next month's bill.
I've had technicians at the house a couple times over the past few weeks. All the DVR's have been hanging up lately, our recording schedules get deleted and my router went belly up. I really do hope the service picks up. The individual techs are great guys, it's going through Manila for support that gets frustrating. When it works, I really do like the service.
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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03-05-12 09:50 AM - Post#146277
In response to MissingChico
I'm a former TWC customer also. Switched over to U-verse not long ago. Except for the first 3 months of not receiving a paper bill and being notified of past due/disconnect, etc, I've loved it.
Now, about the 3 month issue. My account was initially set up for autopay but was told I could cancel it the day after connection was established, which I did. Long story short, I called for 3 months in a row since I wasn't receiving a paper bill. They finally resolved it and I've been getting bills in the mail ever since.
I'm much more content with U-verse but will likely be lowering my package once the promotional period ends. All the channels are nice for the promo price. But, at the end of the day, I simply don't watch 90% of what I have and have no need in paying for something I don't use or watch...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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03-05-12 11:06 AM - Post#146286
In response to cp
Once your promo ends, give AT&T a call back and ask for a new promo pkg. They'll hook you up.
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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03-06-12 12:48 PM - Post#146339
In response to EnjoyingLife
Once your promo ends, give AT&T a call back and ask for a new promo pkg. They'll hook you up.
I might consider doing that. However, like I said, we don't watch most of the channels anyway. I'll see what they can do for a promo on the most basic pkg and see if the savings are worth it from there...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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MissingChico
enthusiast
Posts: 2228
Reg: 02-13-06
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03-06-12 02:42 PM - Post#146345
In response to cp
Problem is you can't order a la carte and often have to pick a large package to get the smaller networks.
| I get my news from the Comedy Central and my comedy from Fox News. |
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phantomcobra
enthusiast
Posts: 1408
Loc: Between Canada and Mexico...
Reg: 06-18-02
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03-08-12 02:14 PM - Post#146409
In response to MissingChico
AT&T would not extend my first 6 month price. They said it was for new customers only. So I dropped the U100 plan to basic. Without the discount, I'm not sure if it is worth it but I don't want the hassle of waiting for TWC to make a house call to hook the TV back up. I don't like the fact that I have to rent a box for each TV with Uverse. In my opinion, if I am paying for the service, since the box is required, it should not be an additional cost. The DVR is different since it is not required to watch.
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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03-09-12 10:44 AM - Post#146447
In response to phantomcobra
I always tell UVerse that I'm calling to cancel because the bill has gotten too expensive. I'm immediately forwarded to a customer retention specialist who's ready to make new promotional offers.
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starrlac
enthusiast
Posts: 643
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 11-03-00
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03-09-12 11:32 PM - Post#146465
In response to phantomcobra
I called to disconnect my Uverse voice because we just didn't use it enough to justify the cost. I was then given a discount on the remaining tv and internet that I was going to keep, plus they increased the internet speed. I was told to call back in 12 months to get another promotional rate. We even got to keep the battery backup that came with voice service. It doesn't help with our new phone service (Magic Jack) because it needs power, but does keep our router going in a power outage so we at least have wifi for our iphones if the power goes out.
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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03-09-12 11:45 PM - Post#146467
In response to starrlac
I learned with TWC and with Sirius that if you want to keep a "new member discount" you just call and ask to speak to the retention department. They are the ones that have the authority to give you those deals, not the front-line people.
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PartyOfEight
member
Posts: 59
Reg: 12-09-07
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03-11-12 11:22 AM - Post#146495
In response to StacyLynn624
I just discovered a $55 charge on my Uverse bill for the technician to replace my faulty Uverse router. I've had an inconsistent bill for the past seven months myself and I'm getting tired of calling the cancellation department. It might be time to find something else. I'm banking on Apple's TV service.
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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03-20-12 04:56 PM - Post#146848
In response to PartyOfEight
Talked to the retention people at AT&T again today...I was able to keep my current promotional rate PLUS they bumped me up to the 24 mbps Max Turbo internet plan for the same price I was paying for only 12 mbps!
Wish I didn't have to call every 6 months but it's the game you gotta play.
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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04-13-12 01:14 PM - Post#148042
In response to StacyLynn624
To no one specifically, HELP!
My U-verse promos end Mon. I just called to extend my current rate or lower my pckg so my rate doesn't go higher than it currently is. No such luck, at least this time around. They want to tell me my rate, even if I lowered my TV from U300 to U200 (they no longer offer U100), and lower my internet speed to the one below Max, my rate would be almost $30-40 more than I'm paying right now.
INSANE! What can I do, other than switch? I don't want to go through the hassel of switching. Surely, AT&T can work out another rate to my specifications.
I told the rep today I have a lot of thinking to do over the weekend and will be calling back Mon.
Any advice? Who's been through this with U-verse already and got what they wanted without switching?
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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04-13-12 01:33 PM - Post#148046
In response to cp
I've always called and threatened to cancel and I will have no problem doing so. Ask to speak to a retention specialist who can offer you more promos than the standard 1-800 # folks can.
I did this a few weeks ago. I'm not paying $47/mo for the U200 pkg with an HD DVR and one other receiver. Internet is their top of the line. I think it's $60/mo. Had to get top of the line bandwidth because I have 4 kids with all kinds of devices not to mention 2 Rokus, a PS3 and Xbox. :-)
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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04-15-12 02:18 PM - Post#148126
In response to EnjoyingLife
Don't even bother talking to the first customer service agent. Just tell them that you want to be connected to the retention department. You're wasting your time if you aren't dealing with the retention department directly.
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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04-16-12 09:14 AM - Post#148142
In response to StacyLynn624
Even now, on the phone with a retention specialist, there are no promos at this time. My bill would be around $113 + tax with the Family pckg and Pro level internet, which is one step lower than what I currently have.
Still, I'm not happy since it means I'll be paying more for less channels. I may even end up cancelling my service all together.
Still have some thinking to do. But, I'm disappointed since I would think they'd try to understand where I'm coming from...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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04-16-12 09:31 AM - Post#148143
In response to cp
Eventually AT&T has to make a little money in order to stay in business. I have the U200 pkg with the 30 mpbs internet and pay around the same as you.
You're just not gonna find cable PLUS internet any cheaper than $100+ per month. Even TWC is more expensive that what you're currently paying for a comparable pkg.
Cable and internet rates are getting out of control, which is why I'm considering cutting the cable cord! Obviously I still need internet but but 200 channels of garbage...NO!
Until more people start cutting the cord and going online streaming only, cable companies will never off an ala carte package. Personally, I would love local channels only plus Fox Sports SW. I could care less about the other 190 channels!
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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04-16-12 09:34 AM - Post#148144
In response to EnjoyingLife
Eventually AT&T has to make a little money in order to stay in business. I have the U200 pkg with the 30 mpbs internet and pay around the same as you.
You're just not gonna find cable PLUS internet any cheaper than $100+ per month. Even TWC is more expensive that what you're currently paying for a comparable pkg.
Cable and internet rates are getting out of control, which is why I'm considering cutting the cable cord! Obviously I still need internet but but 200 channels of garbage...NO!
Until more people start cutting the cord and going online streaming only, cable companies will never off an ala carte package. Personally, I would love local channels only plus Fox Sports SW. I could care less about the other 190 channels!
Yes, I'm in the same boat as you regarding your last 2 statements. We simply don't watch 90% of what we have. I can't help what AT&T generously offered me as a promo; I was very appreciative of that. I just think it stinks somewhat that they are turning out to be a more than TWC, which we paid about the same with them with NO promos.
So, I suppose I'll either pay the little bit more or just cut them out all together. My kids can watch what they watch on TV on the computer. It's all the same to them anyway...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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StacyLynn624
enthusiast
Posts: 841
Loc: East Side
Reg: 09-24-04
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04-17-12 12:02 PM - Post#148174
In response to cp
Did you tell them you were leaving? Did you have examples of other options from other carriers? You have to be willing to leave and have other options that are more agreeable to you when you speak to the retention department. You can't just call them and say that you want to stay but need your bill lowered. That doesn't work as well as when you have one foot out the door.
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allensince1979
enthusiast
Posts: 1326
Loc: allen, Tx. usa
Reg: 06-18-01
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04-19-12 11:36 PM - Post#148250
In response to StacyLynn624
We're actually switching back to TWC tomorrow. At&t has just gotten to be way to expensive since we first signed up for it over 2 years ago. I also called hoping they would offer me a better deal but no luck. TWC is going to be 50.00 cheaper each month for the same package we have now and at a faster internet speed. They are also offering a 200.00 Visa gift card right now.
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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04-20-12 09:22 AM - Post#148253
In response to allensince1979
Good luck...seems like it's a game most people have to play to keep their rates down, switching back and forth. It's a shame cable companies don't realize they're only shooting themselves in the foot. With all the new online streaming options, it's just a matter of time before people get fed up and cut the cord all together, except for internet of course! Gotta have that!
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allensince1979
enthusiast
Posts: 1326
Loc: allen, Tx. usa
Reg: 06-18-01
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06-18-12 03:42 PM - Post#150256
In response to EnjoyingLife
So it's been 2 month's now since we switched back to TWC. It's been 2 month's of non stop problems. I've lost count of how many times we've had them back out to the house. Our internet has gone out countless times and the customer service is terrible at best.
As far as the 200.00 gift card we were told by more than one person that it would arrive in our first statement, it never did. I called earlier in the week and asked why we never received it and was told I was suppose to mail in a statement from our last provider (within 30 days) to prove we had transferred service, gee... first time I heard that and of course now that 30 day period has passed. So were looking to switch again. Does anyone know if Verizon has service in the Twin Creeks area?
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bugs
enthusiast
Posts: 133
Reg: 05-09-12
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06-18-12 03:47 PM - Post#150258
In response to allensince1979
I switched over to Uverse High Speed internet back in March. Their ability to lie is unsurpassed in the industry. I have yet to receive a bill for the quoted amount.
I had Time Warner in the past and thought no one could possibly be worse. AT&T has proven that notion wrong.
I'll be looking into Verizon soon, if it's available.
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allensince1979
enthusiast
Posts: 1326
Loc: allen, Tx. usa
Reg: 06-18-01
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06-18-12 03:55 PM - Post#150260
In response to bugs
We switched from AT&T back to TWC. AT&T just got to expensive over the two years we had it the bill had gone up to over 230.00 a month for cable, internet and phone. I'm trying to stay under 200.00 per month. We don't even get the primer movie channels. I'm getting rid of this TWC and soon possible even if I go back to AT&T. At lease the Uverse worked.
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bdiddy74
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-22-11
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06-18-12 05:24 PM - Post#150263
In response to allensince1979
yeah, AT&T uverse is who we have and i spent about an hour today on the phone with them because our bill has gone up about $60 a month in the past 18 months. Every 6 months I've had to call in and complain about the rate always changing. we were at 180 a month with no premium channels, unlimited phone and middle of the road internet. I was able to get them to knock it down to about 130. a month and they dropped my current bill $100.00 for being a loyal customer. I don't want to go back to TWC either.. Wish i had verizon in the area but unfortunately they are not dropping the FIOS lines in this part of allen anytime soon.
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bdiddy74
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-22-11
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06-18-12 05:27 PM - Post#150264
In response to allensince1979
i don't think vz is in twin creeks but i could be wrong. if you go out to the verizon website you can put in your address and/or tn and they'll validate it for you... no need to chat with a rep.
here's the site.
https://www22.verizon.com/ForYourHome/GoFlow/Na tio...
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allensince1979
enthusiast
Posts: 1326
Loc: allen, Tx. usa
Reg: 06-18-01
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06-18-12 06:26 PM - Post#150266
In response to bdiddy74
For some reason Verizon doesn't recognize my address. They are suppose to call us back. TWC has been so bad this time around I'll cancel and just have no TV or internet before I keep their lousy service. I guess I probably go back to AT&T they keep sending me offers in the mail but really none of them sound that good.
From what I've been able to gather on the internet TWC and AT&T have a monopoly in the area so I guess the city isn't going to make them have any more competition so they can get away with charging whatever they want.
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bdiddy74
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-22-11
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06-18-12 07:34 PM - Post#150272
In response to allensince1979
if it doesn't recognize your address then odds are you are not in their area. Only a very small piece of allen is vz territory.
vz at one point was going to extend into the allen area as much as possible but scale downs of running the FIOS cables and the political piece of it, vz felt it wasn't worth the trouble to pursue.
Edited by bdiddy74 on 06-18-12 07:36 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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06-18-12 09:22 PM - Post#150283
In response to bdiddy74
if it doesn't recognize your address then odds are you are not in their area. Only a very small piece of allen is vz territory.
vz at one point was going to extend into the allen area as much as possible but scale downs of running the FIOS cables and the political piece of it, vz felt it wasn't worth the trouble to pursue.
The only area of Allen I'm aware of that Verizon services is just to the south of Chandler Elementary, along 2551 at Chapparal, where the new neighborhood on the west side went up. I believe they are served from the Wylie exchange.
I've been a Verizon FiOS customer in the past living elsewhere and wasn't all that impressed with their TV/internet packages, not to mention lack of decent internet speed.
There's not enough time in the day to tell you the issues we had with TWC before switching to U-verse. Our 6-month promo with U-verse was great. But once it expired, our bill increased. Even though we now don't have the same channels, we're still paying a little more. HOWEVER, I would MUCH rather pay for U-verse than deal with TWC ANY DAY!!! Pardon the all-caps, but I can't emphasize my disgust with TWC any other way...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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jogo
enthusiast
Posts: 1321
Reg: 08-31-05
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06-19-12 08:30 AM - Post#150290
In response to cp
My neighborhood (north of Chaparral, east of Jupiter) has Verizon. We had TWC for years (just cable because I never trusted them enough for phone and internet) without too many issues but within the past few years the service outages/reception issues just kept increasing. Compared to that, Verizon has been great!! The $300 VISA gift card they offered for switching arrived exactly when it was promised and it was actually for $330!
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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06-19-12 09:28 AM - Post#150291
In response to jogo
Question for anyone reading this topic...if you have a cell phone(s) in the house, why do you need home phone service??? Why pay for a cell phone and also pay for a home line?
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Joel
enthusiast
Posts: 330
Reg: 10-11-06
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06-19-12 09:34 AM - Post#150292
In response to EnjoyingLife
The home phone is there for my kid to be able to dial 911 in case of emergency. We also like having phones in rooms around the house.
I don't pay for home phone service because I have an Obi100. I do pay $1.50 a month for 911 service.
| Instead of trying to convince the other side they are wrong, why don't we come together to fix the things we all agree are wrong. We waste too much time and energy arguing when we should be united. |
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jogo
enthusiast
Posts: 1321
Reg: 08-31-05
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06-19-12 09:57 AM - Post#150293
In response to EnjoyingLife
Enjoying Life, because I'm old and that's the way I like it 
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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06-19-12 10:22 AM - Post#150296
In response to jogo
My neighborhood (north of Chaparral, east of Jupiter) has Verizon. We had TWC for years (just cable because I never trusted them enough for phone and internet) without too many issues but within the past few years the service outages/reception issues just kept increasing. Compared to that, Verizon has been great!! The $300 VISA gift card they offered for switching arrived exactly when it was promised and it was actually for $330!
Interesting to know. I'm assuming you're in either Cottonwood Bend or Brookside based on the cross-street? I've seen some Verizon prefixes in the Allen area (214-785-xxxx) here recently and wondered about it.
Where I am, AT&T and TWC are the only options...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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06-19-12 10:26 AM - Post#150297
In response to EnjoyingLife
Question for anyone reading this topic...if you have a cell phone(s) in the house, why do you need home phone service??? Why pay for a cell phone and also pay for a home line?
Because I, for one, refuse to sell out to the cell-phone only way of living. How long has wireline phone service been around? And how long has wireless service been around? Big difference there, for sure...
I'm in my early 30s, married, and have kids. I'm a rarity in my generation since I refuse to disconnect my land line phone. But, that's okay. I'm not discouraging anyone for their choice. I'm just more comfy with a land line phone for the sake of hearing it ring if I'm in another part of the house, and I can answer in just about any room we have a phone. And, for the fact that cell phone service is spotty both indoors and out...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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will
enthusiast
Posts: 144
Reg: 07-28-09
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06-19-12 10:56 AM - Post#150298
In response to EnjoyingLife
We had Verizon available to us when we lived in Twin Creeks III, but do not have it since moving to Lexington, though it is still Twin Creeks. I enjoy the AT&T products, but our bill has gotten higher than I would like. We are around $240 a month for the 200 channel package, phone, and the highest internet speed (which we get a $5 credit for so that the price is the same as the next tier down). I could give up a receiver and save $7 a month or go with an internet speed that would be frustrating, but it is getting crazy.
Regarding having a home phone, we have the unlimited minutes plan at home but not on the cell phones. It saves the cell phone minutes and we don't have to worry about dropped calls. Our security system also uses the land line. The cost for a wireless security system was a bit more than I could justify because of higher ongoing monitoring charges.
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bdiddy74
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-22-11
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06-19-12 02:31 PM - Post#150305
In response to will
the landline loss is a big deal for the telco's. Most of the companies now are basically bundling the land line in ( or the VOIP line). Companies are doing all they can to keep the landline (or VOIP) line.
I work for VZ so I know enough about the industry to be dangerous. just wnted to disclose that. We use to live in a VZ area and I had the FIOS service.
I like the AT&T Uverse tv, phone and internet... however the internet is my biggest issue since moving to allen. The VZ FIOS internet upload and downloads are wonderful compared to the basics with AT&T or TWC. I wish VZ would/could reach into Allen. I think it would let all us of in Allen have more competition and better products across the board.
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mspam3
enthusiast
Posts: 2196
Loc: Allen TX
Reg: 03-10-07
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06-19-12 02:34 PM - Post#150306
In response to will
We are in the Cottonwood area and have had Verizon ever since they put it in. We have had no problems. We have the Triple bundle and am currently paying $177.00 and that includes one movie rental for $5.99
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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06-19-12 04:31 PM - Post#150315
In response to mspam3
Well, due to the economy, both VZ and AT&T have stalled their rollout. So if you currently don't have FiOS in your area, you won't for a long time, if ever. Same goes for Uverse.
It's a shame, but it is what it is.
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AlwaysTexan
newbie
Posts: 2
Reg: 08-01-09
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06-19-12 04:43 PM - Post#150318
In response to EnjoyingLife
DISH network
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bdiddy74
member
Posts: 27
Reg: 03-22-11
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06-19-12 05:00 PM - Post#150320
In response to EnjoyingLife
vz's rollout wasn't specific to the economy, they really wanted to get a stronger foothold in the areas they had it already rolled out. specifically the east coast (boston, manhattan, etc). The crazy amount of money Ivan put into FIOS they felt it was time to get some of it back to make the stockholders and the board happy.
Edited by bdiddy74 on 06-19-12 05:00 PM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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06-20-12 09:47 AM - Post#150330
In response to bdiddy74
Guess it depends on who you talk to and what you read. Now, people are cutting the cable cord all together. If cable prices continue to increase as analyst are predicting, hopefully MORE people cut the cord and go online only.
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PartyOfEight
member
Posts: 59
Reg: 12-09-07
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06-20-12 10:28 AM - Post#150331
In response to bugs
I've just started my transition off cable. Just purchased another home and the first order of business was to install the fastest internet I could get at a reasonable rate. I previously had AT&T and after my monthly battle with the ever changing bill, I chose TWC and so far it's been perfect. I purchased a Sony Internet Streaming Media Player for $35 dollars from 1saleaday.com (you should get on their mailing list). I'm now streaming full 1080p television and movies plus unlimited music and it's perfect for me. I removed a giant satellite dish from the house and left the pole which is 12 ft high. From this pole, I'm installing an HD antenna which will then be connected to the Tivo DVR I also purchased from 1saleaday.com. The new Tivo's are fully compatible with over the air HD and for the $12 /mo fee I get a full local channel guide which I can set my series recordings. The Tivo is wifi enabled as well and can download all the online content you could ever want. At this point, I pay $48 /mo for 30mb internet which is reimbursed by my employer, plus an additional $12 dollars for Tivo service as well as $7 /mo for Netflix. Basically, I'll be watching everything I did with cable plus retaining the ability to record. Being a Prime member of Amazon allows me to download unlimited video from Amazon as well, and that's done directly from the Sony media streamer. I hope this works out the way I want because I'm sick to death of forking out $230 /mo to AT&T. Apple and Intel are getting closer to being able to offer live TV content on-demand and when that happens, life will be perfect. So far the only thing I'm going to miss is Anthony Bordaine on the Travel Channel. I'm actually leaving for Penang Malaysia in 7 days for an Anthony Bourdaine inspired foodie vacation.
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starrlac
enthusiast
Posts: 643
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 11-03-00
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06-20-12 01:45 PM - Post#150336
In response to EnjoyingLife
We have 3 in the family with cell phones, but we also have children who stay home alone who do not have phones. We switched to Magicjack Plus last fall and have been very happy. We have 911 service and have had excellent call quality. I also get an email every time I get a voice mail and then listen to the vm through email on my phone. I think we paid $60 for the device, and now pay $20/year for unlimited phone service. It sure beats $30-40/month!
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starrlac
enthusiast
Posts: 643
Loc: Allen, TX
Reg: 11-03-00
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06-20-12 01:49 PM - Post#150337
In response to cp
I have a 214-785-xxxx number and I have MagicJack. It was one of the available prefixes I could choose.
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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06-20-12 02:32 PM - Post#150340
In response to starrlac
I got my info from http://localcallingguide.com/lca_prefix.php?npa=21... It appears that prefix is serviced by multiple providers, VZ being one of them.
Off-topic: MagicJack = 214-785-3xxx, -4xxx, and -5xxx. VZ = -9xxx, TWC = -7xxx. Bandwidth.com is Google Voice = -0xxx, -1xxx, and -8xxx.
Thank goodness for competition, right?
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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ryanw
member
Posts: 36
Reg: 06-03-08
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06-21-12 12:36 PM - Post#150364
In response to cp
We went on-line only about a year and a half ago...cut the cable cord for good. We now use a Roku for just about everything (Netflix, Pandora, Amazon instant video). $7.99/mo
We use Ooma for voice service, only pay the regulatory fees (about $3.50/mo)
We also use a service called PlayOn (through the Roku box). I paid a lifetime service fee of $80 - it has additional programming not available through Netflix..like regular Hulu (not Prime) http://www.playon.tv/ Good service
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allensince1979
enthusiast
Posts: 1326
Loc: allen, Tx. usa
Reg: 06-18-01
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06-21-12 08:57 PM - Post#150382
In response to ryanw
Well back to AT&T Uverse next week. TWC must have the worst customer service of any company ever. I will never deal with them again even if their service was free. Don't fall for their 200.00 gift card scheme we never got ours not to mention the daily outages we've had almost every day since April.
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cp
enthusiast
Posts: 197
Reg: 12-14-11
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06-21-12 09:20 PM - Post#150383
In response to allensince1979
See? The TWC outages seem to be a big problem here in Allen, yet nothing is being done about it from TWC's standpoint.
Sounds like someone needs to be fired...
| "In religion and politics people's beliefs and convictions are in almost every case gotten at second-hand, and without examination..." -Samuel Langhorne Clemens, better known as Mark Twain |
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pcrtx
member
Posts: 36
Reg: 09-01-07
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06-22-12 08:41 AM - Post#150389
In response to cp
I am about ready to make the jump to try out the Roku and then Ooma.
But my question at this point is: What is the best standalone internet service in the are? ATT and Verizon have them bundle so tight that purchasing the internet by itself is about 1/2 the cost of getting all three. Suggestions?
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EnjoyingLife
enthusiast
Posts: 370
Reg: 08-09-10
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06-22-12 09:54 AM - Post#150393
In response to pcrtx
Regardless who you pick, you can expect to pay between $50-60 per month for bandwidth exceeding 10 mbps. Anything less than 10 mbps isn't good enough for online streamline if you want to stream in HD quality.
I have Uverse for internet, I'm paying $63/mo for the up to 24 mbps plan. Gotta have that...4 kids with all kinds of devices requiring Wifi connection plus online streaming and multiple PCs!
There are cheaper DSL plans available from ATT and VZ but DSL is old and just not fast enough for online streaming.
Hope this helps.
Edited by EnjoyingLife on 06-22-12 09:54 AM. Reason for edit: No reason given.
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