ViacomCBS Arris DCII to Synamedia PowerVu Migration FAQ

Contents
  • Overview
  • Completing the Survey
  • Shipping & Returns
  • Authorizations
  • Other
Overview

Which ViacomCBS services are in-scope?

Does this impact services I receive via a 3rd party transporter?

  • No, this only impacts certain services received directly from ViacomCBS via satellite

What is Synamedia?

Why do I need new satellite receivers?

  • One of the ViacomCBS Arris DCII platforms is no longer supported by the manufacturer. All ViacomCBS affiliates receiving services from this platfrom are being transitioned to the Synamedia (fka Cisco) PowerVu platform. Arris DCII satellite receivers are not compatible with the PowerVu platform

Where do I find the tech specs for Viacom services?

  • Log into viacomcbsaffiliate.com account and navigate to Signals > Tech Specs. Filter to show the feeds that you would like to see. You will then need to export to Excel to view the full specifications

Completing the Survey

A headend is listed for a location or company that I am not responsible for, what do I do?

I am not sure how to answer some questions on the survey – who do I contact for assistance with filling it out?

Shipping & Returns

How do I return my receiver(s)?

How does Viacom determine which receiver to send?

  • After you complete the initial survey regarding output configuration at your headend(s), our Affiliate Services team will provide you with their assessment of which receivers are needed

What happens if I get the wrong receiver(s)?

How long will it take to get my receiver(s)?

  • Equipment is expected to ship within two weeks after you have confirmed the equipment assessment, and is usually received within one week of shipping. However, delays may unexpectedly occur due to low inventory or high order volume. For questions about the status of your shipment, please submit your shipping inquiry through http://www.viacomcbsaffiliate.com/contact-us

FEDEX tracking says it was delivered, but I didn’t receive it, who do I contact?

I need to return the receiver(s), who pays for the return shipping costs?

  • This will be determined after your return request is evaluated

I need to return the receiver(s) but I threw away the original box, what do I do?

Authorizations

Can I use my receiver(s) for non-ViacomCBS services?

  • No, these receivers can only be used for ViacomCBS services

How do I get my replacement PowerVu receivers authorized?

  • Please call the 24/7 ViacomCBS Affiliate Services Hotline at 631.435.4961 for assistance with authorizing your receiver. You may also submit an authorization request on viacomcbsaffiliate.com under Signals > Device Grid

Are the replacement PowerVu receivers pre-configured?

  • Yes, RF Inputs will be pre-configured

Who do I contact for tech support on units authorized for ViacomCBS services?

  • Please call the 24/7 ViacomCBS Affiliate Services Hotline at 631.435.4961

Can I keep my Arris receivers authorized after authorizing the PowerVu equipment?

  • No, the PowerVu receivers are intended to replace your Arris receivers. Your obligation to complete the transition is not considered fulfilled until all Arris receivers at your headend(s) are de-authorized

Who do I contact for assistance/troubleshooting when authorizing my receiver(s)?

  • Please call the 24/7 ViacomCBS Affiliate Services Hotlineat 631-435-4961 for immediate assistance with authorizations and troubleshooting

What setting shall I use for down-converting HD to SD?

  • Please note the following requirements regarding down-conversion:
    • You must utilize Active Format Description ("AFD") (per SMPTE 2016-1-2007 or any successor standards) transmitted by Network to govern the aspect raio of any down-converted feed, provided that, in the absence of Network transmitting AFD in the applicable signal, you shall be permitted to down-convert in a letterbox format only
    • In advance of implementing down-conversion of any HD simulcasts you must notify signalauthorization@viacom.com of your intent to down-convert, including the location(s) where down-convert will take place, down-convert start date and down-convert networks
  • Click here for an FAQ document regarding Viacom HD Channel Down-Conversion via AFD
Other

I have a question not answered here; what can I do?

Can I get spare / back-up receivers?

  • We do not provide spare / back-up receivers, but you may purchase receivers at a discounted price we are able to offer to our distribution partners. Please email Projects@ussiglobal.com. Note these can only be used for Viacom services

Can I use existing Synamedia receivers?

  • Existing DVBS2 Synamedia receivers may be used, as long as they are not also being used for other programmer’s services

What shall I do with the old Arris/Motorola receivers?

  • There is no need to send old Arris/Motorola receivers back to Viacom and you may dispose of them

Will you reimburse for the costs to recycle the old units?

  • We will not reimburse for the costs to recycle the old units

Can I use the receivers on other services if I no longer distribute the impacted ViacomCBS services?

  • No. If you no longer need these receivers for the impacted ViacomCBS services please contact us via http://www.viacomcbsaffiliate.com/contact-us to process a return. Be sure to include site name, location and contact information

What SSN pool are all the Synamedia PowerVu receiver you are providing linked to?

  • The receivers are linked to the Viacom (VIA) pool.

updated 5/11/20