is it possible? I did a quick search and didn't really find what I was looking for

I definitely don't see the option on my box.

I'm trying to figure out a different issue with some recordings, and just want to force the stb to output the same signal for each channel

On the front of the 505/530 there is a small red button hidden behind an access flap. Press the button to cycle between the various outputs. 0000 is native mode (outputs whatever signal is received).

I saw that. where is it supposed to show what format it's outputting? do I need to be on a specific channel or enable some other display option?

i've cycled thru, can see it changing the resolutions, but right now I have no idea if it's spitting out 720p or 1080i

It spits out whatever you set it to, unless you set it to 0000, in which case it'll spit out 480i for SD and 1080i for HD since all HD is 1080i on Shaw Direct.

For confirmation, most TVs also have an info/display/enter or similar button which shows you the incoming signal. Sometimes when you switch inputs, the data comes up on the TV screen for a few seconds if such a button doesn't work on your TV.

The front display of the receiver (the clock area) shows the output as you select it.

haha holy @#$%

how in the world did I miss the clock changing to the resolution it was pushing out

good gravy, thanks a bunch!

A semi-related question, why is it that even when an HD channel is airing a SD program, it still comes up as 1080i? Is it just because the receiver only differentiates between SD and HD channels, and not SD and HD shows?

All HD channels on ShawDirect broadcast in 1080i at all times. I'm not even sure if it is possible to switch the resolution of a channel on a transponder.

It would certainly be disruptive to the user's equipment if they were in native mode as the TV would have to resync with the new signal resolution .... similar to what they see when switching from a HD channel to Standard Def channel now: the screen would go black for a second or two.

K, thanks. Thats basically what I assumed, I just didn't know how to explain what I thought very good.

all 1080i yes nad non because Score HD in 720P

all 1080i yes nad non because Score HD in 720P
I just checked on my new system and it tells me that ScoreHD is 1080i.

Ooops, just checked and I'm outputting 1080i to the tv so that is not accurate. When I switch to native (0000) I do get 720p.

Looks like Shaw Direct and Shaw Cable are now not switching all channels to 1080i any more like they used to and that some/all 720P channels are now being sent as 720P. I guess I'll have to change my HDTV formats FAQ - link below:

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=76129

Don't let your system fool you guys.Even when the broadcast is obviously not HD, the TV shows 1080i signal. Not true? SD streched to fit 16:9 screen isn't HD! But the tv will still tell you that is receiving 1080i or 780p. If someone can explain this will be much appreciated.

An HD channel only broadcasts at 720P or 1080i. Any original material that was SD (typically 4:3) has been upconverted by the affiliate to improve the quality.