Hey Dan,
Are you still using the S3? I just bought one and love it. You said you bought a Nikon and was just curious if something went wrong with the S3.
They will provide the component cable to you HDTV from the box. I would ask the guy to put a splitter in for you, so that you can have PIP. My guy did it free. He put took out the HD comcast box and just replaced it with the DVR box....
x10 just updated their starter kit and it now includes a computer module that connects via USB. It includes a few other modules and a basic remote. Depending on what remote you have, pronto, whatever, you can add an ir to rf adaptor...
Depending on your location, the Comcast DVR is a single tuner, thus you cannot watch one thing and record another. If this is the situation, I would suggest splitting the cable before the cable box and run a seperate coax to you...
Not only that, but it may not be to code. General outlets thoughout the house should be on a 15A circuit. Only if it is not specified to be on a different one, such as a microwave or other kitchen appliances.