Darryl I may be interested in that 1080i if you decide to get rid of it. Much easier to run straight RGB/VGA to the projector.

Originally posted by ricksm3
Appreciate the offer, but I'm pretty sure I'll go with Voom. It's a no lose offer. I will continue to have cable (part of the Assoc. fees so why get rid of it) so I'm simply looking to augment with HD content. No one comes close to Voom on that. The only two things I desperately want for them that they don't currently have is the PVR and ESPN HD. Word is that ESPN is basically a done deal but I need to see it to believe it. (Yeah, I know a fair amount of ESPN is just stretched garbage, but they are adding more and more all of the time). The PVR isn't expected until much later this year.

We've had D*TV since 2000 and love it. We have the HD package (currently HBO-HD, Discovery-HD, HDNet, HDNet Movies, and ESPN-HD), HBO and Starz movie packages and pay about $75/mo. with taxes. We too get the cable channels as part of our HOA dues, but we mainly watch D*TV and OTA H/DTV. I looked into Voom and although at a first glance, there's definitely a WOW factor, but upon detailed research, I noticed that most of their HD packages are just 'genre' channels playing the same old (I mean really old) movie (or ridiculously uninteresting shows) many times each day. Then, on the next day, they play another really old movie over and over again; I don't know about anyone else, but I'm not going to pay to watch an old movie I've seen 10x (unless its a real classic like Top Gun, Star Wars, or Braveheart or something like that) just because it's upconverted to HD.

Some of the Voom movies are ok, but when you know you've seen them many times (or some you never cared to see at all), does it really excite you that much to see 'Network News' (again) or something like that in HD? :rolleyes: Or, are you really interested in watching 'Dirtbike Racing in Kentucky' on Voom's HD Sports channel? :rolleyes: Or, what about 'Lean Cooking' on Voom's HD Leisure channel? I mean, really, even HDNet has better, more interesting programming. IMHO, your paying for a lot of HD FLUFF.

Although they do carry HBO-HD, Starz-HD, Showtime-HD, and Cinemax-HD -- which are great, but get all of them + all the other garbage they offer, and the monthly subscription price seems to skyrocket past D*TV. IMHO, I think Voom has a great concept, if only their 'genre' channels broadcast more up-to-date movies most of us really want to see.

In addition, what's been reported is that after D*TV gets their new bird up into orbit this May, that should free up the needed bandwidth for more HD channels. I've read that D*TV will be adding Starz-HD and several more HD channels within the next year or so. Don't forget that D*TV is usually very good at meeting their competition, then upping the ante. The competition from D*N, VOOM, and all the cable companies offering HD will light a fire under the D*TV behinds...you'll see :D The main reason that VOOM recently began their hardware bundling and free installation type promotions is because they haven't had the subscriber base they thought they would have at this point. This is a very tough and competitive business and although I hope VOOM is in the game for a long time, I'll stick with D*TV for now. So, in the end, all I say is 'check out' the Voom HD packages a bit further and ask yourself...am I really going to watch these old, crappy movies and boring shows just because they're in HD? If so, then go for it...just remember to fluff up your pillow for when you fall asleep on the couch. :D

RICKSM3,

I too prefer D*TV. In addition to what bsgoren has stated about D*TV vs. Voom, D*TV has more SD channels that we sometimes watch. But the biggest thing is that the HD DirecTivo's are shipping tomorrow and one has my name on it. You can still pre-order and get one in May.

HobeSoundDarryl,
Enjoyed your feedback very much. I remember the C-band dishes that you had to make look like a picnic table with an umbrella to get past the HOA. I see that the next generation of DVD burners will be available this summer. They are double-sided and therefore double the amount of data that can be stored (4 hours of SD video). I agree that we need HD DVD but again we will go through the "Standard" wars I'm sure.

Big Hitter, I'll keep you in mind and send you a note in a few weeks.


D* fans, I appreciate your points (I'm a D* fan since inception too). However, some of the information is wrong and some is a little off. As I understand it, the VaVaVoom offer is $79.xx for all the channels (except porn) which is only $4 more than the referenced price, and $3 less than what I'm paying for my incarnation of D* now.

There is mixed speculation about the 7s Satt and how much HD its launch will yield for D* loyalists. There seems to be a contingent that thinks much of that bandwith is going to more local channels for many markets, freeing up a few slots that might be used for HD on a main satt. This concept is much more profitable in the short-term for D*, so I lean to thinking it is probably more right than wrong. I guesstimate that D*'s HD expansion will be to offer more HD national feeds of the network programming and maybe a movie channel or two.

I want to stay with D*, but I want more HD now. So I'm switching to Voom for now and might switch back when D* catches up or passes Voom on HD content. Vooms $0/no contract deal is the perfect way to get more HD now. If D* catches up at some point, I can simply drop Voom and switch back.

The PVR/DVR is a big draw and D* will be there first, but even that is not buying more time with me. D* is so much bigger and so much more powerful in the Satt space- they should be the king of HD now. They shouldn't allow the creation of a situation where loyal customers like me can view an alternative as superior in their own space. But that's what they've done with me, and let the "little guy" steal me away.

If that little guy fails, or is acquired, or whatever, no big risk on my part. D* will probably bribe me back with some future offer I can't refuse. In the meantime, I'll join that little set of people who have an HDTV in their home and finally has lots of HD choices to watch. Even if 25% of the Voom HD channels were unwatchable crap, the balance still amounts to about 3 times more HD channels than what I get on D*. It's a choice I found hard to keep resisting. And the SD channels that I like are there too.

I'll still be a D* fan and I'll miss some of the options. I'll also be envious of the PVR/DVR. Chances are I'll be back to D* someday. My guts tell me it might be another year or two before they can catch up (the launch of 7s certainly will not give them the capacity). I'm tired of waiting.

bsgoren:

All valid points. Somewhat of a half-full or half-empty argument. I tend to fall the way HobeSoundDarryl looks at it. One thing not mentioned is I think you will find continual change at Voom. They've been up and running for about six months now without a lot of significant advertising, etc. I think their strategy to date has been to grab a few early adopters and use them to get things up and running. They're still working out bugs in the system and just recently pushed a new update (that was also all bugged up). Many feel Voom is going to embark on a new strategy on April 1 - as if that really is their "serious" launch date. Many complain about the same things you mention regarding their proprietary channels. I think you will see changes on how they program those and sooner than later. Going with Voom is somewhat of a gamble while at the same time it isn't, if that makes any sense. You really have nothing to lose and, as a startup in its infancy, I suspect you will see some rapid alterations - together with some continued bugs to work out.

Originally posted by ricksm3
bsgoren:

All valid points. Somewhat of a half-full or half-empty argument. I tend to fall the way HobeSoundDarryl looks at it. One thing not mentioned is I think you will find continual change at Voom. They've been up and running for about six months now without a lot of significant advertising, etc. I think their strategy to date has been to grab a few early adopters and use them to get things up and running. They're still working out bugs in the system and just recently pushed a new update (that was also all bugged up). Many feel Voom is going to embark on a new strategy on April 1 - as if that really is their "serious" launch date. Many complain about the same things you mention regarding their proprietary channels. I think you will see changes on how they program those and sooner than later. Going with Voom is somewhat of a gamble while at the same time it isn't, if that makes any sense. You really have nothing to lose and, as a startup in its infancy, I suspect you will see some rapid alterations - together with some continued bugs to work out.

I agree, but at the same time, my guess is that D*TV will also keep up the pace with their competition, and I wouldn't doubt that after they get another sat into orbit, we will see some HD additions to the D*TV service (especially since many of D*TV's customers are screaming for more HD channels). Also, D*TV has the HD TIVO unit (made by Hughes with the D*TV brand name) out very soon and the other mfgr's like Sony have announced the production of HD DVR's (with a big HDD) for this Oct. or Nov. release (which I'm interested in). Personally, I feel good about sticking with D*TV and waiting a few months to see what transpires. Like I mentioned, VOOM is a great concept and I'm sure they'll adapt and change their programming according to what they're customers want, but so far, apples to apples -- D*TV still wins in my mind for an all around better quality package for the money. I do hope VOOM subscribers increase and they stay around to force the others to keep up the pace; I believe VOOM is owned by a large cable co. or has a lot of backing from such, so they're likely to stick around for a while. :)

HobeSoundDarryl -

Your points are valid and well taken. I guess I'm from the camp of switching back and forth is just more of a pain in the ... than just being a little more patient. My loyalty to D*TV is not necessarily because I love their service, although their HD broadcasts have been very stable and reliable, but also because I love my Sony HD-200 SAT/OTA receiver. Now, there may be a day in a year or two where I'll be willing to scrap my equipment or move that receiver upstairs to our bedroom (to make room for another HD SAT/DVR or TIVO unit, but for now, we're very happy watching a few HD channels offered on D*TV (with more than likely, a few more to come) and the WPB OTA H/DTV broadcasts (when they're stable and watchable that is :rolleyes: ).

Now, I can see VOOM as a better alternative right now if you just don't watch that much OTA network HDTV. Then, their 'very unique' VOOM channels might be of interest to you, as well as their HD movie channels. Personally, I find myself wacthing a lot of Discovery-HD on D*TV because I like that nature stuff (although my wife finds it boring :) ) and it looks so good in true HD (not upconverted)! :D We currently also watch a lot of OTA H/DTV network type shows. Then, add an HD DVR or HD TIVO into the mix, and we'll have so much HD programming to watch at any given time of the day, we won't know what to do with it all. So my point here is the same old argument that with ALL the options available each day, who has enough time in the day to watch so much stuff? :D That's why I think D*TV works just fine and will only get better in the months and years to come.

WPTV DT Update. Good to hear of you all getting the signal again, we still have tweaking to do to make the fix last...we will be doing some work on Thursday during the daytime. We are now going after the pixelization and freeze issues. We are still leaning towards NBC for the reported audio sync issue, we change nothing, and its dead on for many hours...then a pass thru NBC show has the lag...so back to the freeze issue...We are having a problem with video drop out on our microwave path to the transmitter site, the drop out causes the exicter on the HD transmitter to lose the stream, then rebuilds it...we have 3 hot areas to check, and hope to have it solved by next week.

Dave, thank you for the update on WPTV DT. Now that we know what areas you are troubleshooting we can give you more helpful feedback. I'm sure that those people that can receive WTVJ DT will give audio sync reports if that would help.

Originally posted by WPTV DT DOE
We are still leaning towards NBC for the reported audio sync issue, we change nothing, and its dead on for many hours...then a pass thru NBC show has the lag...

Dave,

I've been continuing to see lip sync error on upconverted programming such as local news and SNL last Saturday night, not just NBC HD feeds. SNL lip sync was fine on WTVJ-DT.

Good luck with your efforts.

Originally posted by David McRoy
Dave,

I've been continuing to see lip sync error on upconverted programming such as local news and SNL last Saturday night, not just NBC HD feeds. SNL lip sync was fine on WTVJ-DT.

Good luck with your efforts. Dave - you beat me to it. I was going to post the exact same response. WPTV's newcasts are having lip sync errors on both my Sammy STB and the SA3250 from Adelphia.

Did anyone see the West Wing telecast last night? What a difference from their normal PQ and the one last night shot with a true HD camera. You didn't have the dark scenes that you normally see. Everything was bright and beautiful!

Originally posted by Kenni_o
Dave - you beat me to it. I was going to post the exact same response. WPTV's newcasts are having lip sync errors on both my Sammy STB and the SA3250 from Adelphia.

Did anyone see the West Wing telecast last night? What a difference from their normal PQ and the one last night shot with a true HD camera. You didn't have the dark scenes that you normally see. Everything was bright and beautiful!

Yes, BIG difference between upconverted HD and true HD shot with hi-def cameras. 'West Wing' looked amazing (like Discovery-HD or HDNet)...too bad the episode's documentary format was unusually boring.

There were only a few instances of pixelization/screen freezes, but hopefully Dave and his team will identify and solve that problem soon as he stated.

Originally posted by bsgoren
Yes, BIG difference between upconverted HD and true HD shot with hi-def cameras. 'West Wing' looked amazing (like Discovery-HD or HDNet)...too bad the episode's documentary format was unusually boring.

There were only a few instances of pixelization/screen freezes, but hopefully Dave and his team will identify and solve that problem soon as he stated. I can agree totally with your comment. The live lookin was on the boring side. Now if would only switch to normal storyline and still use the HD camera, that would make a great show. I still enjoy WW but I find their storyline not as good since their Creator/producer left the show. Not nearly as good as it use to be!

I installed the SqS almost two weeks ago (with rotor and pre-amp) just like Dave's and the results are outstanding. All signals are in the 90% range with nary a pixel out of place. Can even get a good Channel 25 analog signal that was never possible before. Anyone need a Silver Sensor cheap? I've got 2 of them I'll never need!!!

Hello everyone...I'm kinda new to the HD scene, just purchased a Motorola HDT100 to go with my 47" Panasonic HD RPTV. I have a $37 radio shack antenna in the attic, heres what im getting.....

WPBT WPBF
WFOR WLTV
WPTV WFLX
WTVJ WBFS
WPLG WPXM
WPEC WPXP
PAX WEST

vinny, welcome to HD. I have a good friend who lives in Lake Worth. Using an in-the-attic antenna, he can get all of the PB & Miami stations. I think you could build a bigger list than what you're showing now (if that is the question between the lines of your post).

Yea im getting more miami stations than west palm. I think my neighbors house is in the way, he has a 2 story house and I have a 1 story. Do you know what kind of antenna your friend in lake worth is using ? Do you think an inline amp would help ?

Thanks

I know exactly what kind of antenna: it's a Blake JBX-14 (by Blake Aerials from England). He gets everything solid & stable. I have a Blake too (mounted outdoors) but I can't quite reach all Miami stations from Hobe Sound (though I do get a few). Often I can pull some Orlando stations with it.

That antenna probably wont fit in my attic :( Do you think an inline amp would help bring in more stations ?

Vinny, I am in Lake Worth, Military and Lantana, and I am using 2 silver sensors in the Attic, feeding them through a channel master preamp, then diplexing them into my Satellite multi-switch. The only Miami channels I don't get are 7 and 10, (the silver sensors are UHF only) but I do get everything else. I have 1 SS pointed west to the Antenna farm and 1 south.

I have probably a similar problem to you in that my attic is very low so I couldn't use a full size antenna so the silver sensors are great because they are only about 10 inches tall. But the elevation made a huge difference. And I have found that even moving them a few degrees can be the difference between getting a station or not. Oddly, even putting one of the SS on a box so that it was elevated even a little more seems to make a difference.

I also did find a big difference in using the channel master preamp. I first tried a radio shack preamp and it didn't do much but the channel master really seemed to stabilize the signal. But since I am diplexing them into the multi-switch it is probably more critical for me to preamp.

The SS are very directional and I could not find a happy medium where I was picking up most of the Miami and West Palm stations using just 1 of them. I'd adjust a little south and get Miami, but loose ABC and the other Northern antenna stations. A little more west and I'd loose Miami CBS, which is one of the best IMHO, so that is how I wound up with two SS.

Anyway I hope this is helpful. Good luck!

Transmission Reliability - A

Video Quality - C (1080I doesn't cut it for sports , mediocre camera work)

Audio Quality - D (lots of background audio, not 5.1 encoded)

Originally posted by toddmoe
Vinny, I am in Lake Worth, Military and Lantana, and I am using 2 silver sensors in the Attic, feeding them through a channel master preamp, then diplexing them into my Satellite multi-switch. The only Miami channels I don't get are 7 and 10, (the silver sensors are UHF only) but I do get everything else. I have 1 SS pointed west to the Antenna farm and 1 south.



I looked up a picture of the silver sensor and they are really SMALL :eek:
Amazing that you can get alot of channels with that. Did you get it locally or by mail ?

I've decided to evaluate the Adelphia HD package since D*TV recently raised the fee. I'm already using Adelphia Powerlink for my Internet access and I have basic cable via my POA. So it looks like I can add the Adelphia HD package including HBO and save $31.44/mo over my current D*TV + Powerlink pricing.

But it appears the Adelphia HD package doesn't currently include the local WPB CBS or FOX feeds, so I'll still have to pick those up from my OTA hookup through my Hughes E86. I disconnected my satellite feed and unplugged the E86 to remove the previously downloaded D*TV menu information. I then rescanned my local stations via the E86 and selected the local WPB digital stations. Everything works fine except ABC (16-1) doesn't remap to (25-1) as it did with the satellite feed connected. Anyone know why?

I plan to evaluate the Adelphia HD package for a couple of weeks and then cancel D*TV if everything works. I'll let you know how this turns out.

I got them at Circuit City, so worst case you can try it and if it doesn't work take it back. They were branded something else, so don't ask for a Silver Sensor, but its the same exact antenna.

I read a really informative guide, unfortunately I don't have the link, but the point of the article was that size was pretty irrelevant in terms of reception.

Can anyone expand on what Adelphia is currently offering and does anyone have any news on what they are planning. I live in Winston Trails in Lake Worth and my subdivision must be the last place for fiber since they told me last week they have not upgraded my neighborhood yet. I currently get all of the locals from WPB and a few from Miami.

Warren, I'm around the corner in Willoughby Farms and they are in the process of upgrading us now, which is odd because the whole neighborhood is only 3 years old, but you probably aren't too far behind if they are working on us.

Originally posted by lwhitefl
Everything works fine except ABC (16-1) doesn't remap to (25-1) as it did with the satellite feed connected. Anyone know why?
Yes, here is their problem. Did you notice on the guide that the call letters are not available either. This means, they must not have initiated PSIP tables correctly. A portion of the PSIP information (channel call letters, frequency, status, guide information, etc.) is the DCC (direct channel change) information. The PSIP table has two types of virtual channel information, one for OTA transmissions (TVCT) and one for cable/satellite (CVCT). They must have enabled their CVCT correctly so you remapped when coming off the satellite but their OTA portion of the table was done incorrectly or not done at all. I would guess they don't do the TVCT table at all, so you get no remapping and no call letters. They are the only station I've seen with no call letters displayed or remapping done. All others were working correctly. If you want to know a little more about PSIP here is a paper on it. http://www.broadcastpapers.com/tvtran/ThalesDTVTranslator.pdf

Originally posted by toddmoe
I got them at Circuit City, so worst case you can try it and if it doesn't work take it back. They were branded something else, so don't ask for a Silver Sensor, but its the same exact antenna.

I read a really informative guide, unfortunately I don't have the link, but the point of the article was that size was pretty irrelevant in terms of reception.

How long ago did you get it from Circuit City ? Its not on the web site. I would try it if they sold it, like you said I can always return it ;)
http://www.zenith.com/sub_prod/images/thumbnails/ZHDTV1Z_TN02.jpg

That is the one, I got mine about 6-7 months ago, although I never tried the website I just walked into the CC over on Congress and found them. They are zenith brand if that helps in your search, I did a quick google and found a ton of hits.

Its also listed under Gemini ZHDTV1 at Amazon.com. I was at CC on congress about a week ago and I didn't see it :( they just had the one that clips on your satellite dish.

Thanks for the PSIP table information Ken - interesting.

I've canceled the Adelphia HD installation because after checking with Adelphia today, the only HD channels they offer currently are 2 local WPB stations and Showtime. The D*TV offerings are certainly more extensive than Adelphia. If and when Adelphia begins offering more HD content, I'll check it out then. Since I enjoy watching sporting events in HD and the HBO/HD channel, I guess I'll just have to accept the pricing.

Len, I can't believe that you use Adelphia for your broadband connection. I had them for 6 years and it was "problematic" to say the least. When my neighborhood was updated for DSL I literally ran to the phone, called Adelphia and canceled everything. When the CSR asked the "Why are you canceling?" question I had a prepared list that I went through. When she tried to cut me off because it was taking so long I said "No, I've waited a long time to do this and it's therapeutic for me!" I have not regretted it one bit. Then to find out that the Regas family was stealing millions of dollars from the company was the icing on the cake. Stick with D*TV Len, you will be happier.

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
Len, I can't believe that you use Adelphia for your broadband connection. I had them for 6 years and it was "problematic" to say the least. When my neighborhood was updated for DSL I literally ran to the phone, called Adelphia and canceled everything. When the CSR asked the "Why are you canceling?" question I had a prepared list that I went through. When she tried to cut me off because it was taking so long I said "No, I've waited a long time to do this and it's therapeutic for me!" I have not regretted it one bit. Then to find out that the Regas family was stealing millions of dollars from the company was the icing on the cake. Stick with D*TV Len, you will be happier.

Electric, I've been using Adelphia PowerLink since October 2001. I've only experienced one major outage during that period in June 2003 and I almost canceled the service because of it. But prior to that incident and since, I've enjoyed stable service at a smaller cost than the BellSouth DSL. As long as Adelphia remains stable and price competitive, I'll continue to use it.

I agree Adelphia's senior management has experienced ethics lapses, but that statement is unfortunately true of many large companies these days. I am very glad there are alternatives to Adelphia however. We'll just have to see how the HD content with Adelphia vs. D*TV progresses. I believe Adelphia has new senior management now - maybe they'll finally get their act together. But you're probably right - that the chances are problematical.

Originally posted by lwhitefl
Electric, I've been using Adelphia PowerLink since October 2001. I've only experienced one major outage during that period in June 2003 and I almost canceled the service because of it. But prior to that incident and since, I've enjoyed stable service at a smaller cost than the BellSouth DSL. As long as Adelphia remains stable and price competitive, I'll continue to use it. I too was using Adelphia cable modems for web access and had great service for a couple of years, until, they started upgrading to their fiber cable network. Then my service started going out at around 9:00 am and would remain in and out until about 7:00pm, Monday thru Friday. On the weekends, it was out Saturdays till mid-afternoon then was on the rest of the weekend till Monday Morning when the cycle would begin all over again. As you can see from that schedule, it was out when they were working on installing their new cables. I called a dozen times, keep track of the exact times we were without service, but they swore it wasn't their fault. Never once did their Tech find a problem at our location. Finally I said enough was enough.

I switched to Bellsouth's DSL service and I have NOT had a single outage, NOT ONE! That is over two years of service and great Customer Service from Bellsouth. I know I pay a little more but it didn't make any difference if Adelphia would have given me the service for free, it just wasn't working when I needed it! Now I understand from some neighbors that Adelphia's PowerLink is working great again. So keep your fingers crossed that they don't make another network upgrade in your area.

Originally posted by Kenni_o
I too was using Adelphia cable modems for web access and had great service for a couple of years, until, they started upgrading to their fiber cable network. Then my service started going out at around 9:00 am and would remain in and out until about 7:00pm, Monday thru Friday. On the weekends, it was out Saturdays till mid-afternoon then was on the rest of the weekend till Monday Morning when the cycle would begin all over again. As you can see from that schedule, it was out when they were working on installing their new cables. I called a dozen times, keep track of the exact times we were without service, but they swore it wasn't their fault. Never once did their Tech find a problem at our location. Finally I said enough was enough.

I switched to Bellsouth's DSL service and I have NOT had a single outage, NOT ONE! That is over two years of service and great Customer Service from Bellsouth. I know I pay a little more but it didn't make any difference if Adelphia would have given me the service for free, it just wasn't working when I needed it! Now I understand from some neighbors that Adelphia's PowerLink is working great again. So keep your fingers crossed that they don't make another network upgrade in your area.

I have to admit that when I had Adelphia’s Power-Link (Power-Stink) it was the “one-way” version (uplink was via dial-up modem) and that technology was abysmal. But it could have worked better if Adelphia had hired people that knew how to set it up and operate it. If they had any semblance of customer service I would give them credit for it. But waiting on hold for hours and then getting someone at technical support that blames the problem on everything but Adelphia got really annoying. For years I would ask “when will my neighborhood be upgraded to 2-way?” The answer was always “We have it scheduled but I can’t give a date.”

I had their cable TV then too. Every time it rained hard the signal would fade out – wait, rain fade? This is cable. They had a “relay” that needed upgrading but they were too cheap to do it. It finally took hundreds of people going to the city council and threatening to pull their contract to get things fixed.

So after 7 years of Adelphia’s horrible business model you can probably understand why I’m happy to be done with them. I know too that businesses can change, especially under new management, so there is hope. For the people that are stuck with Adelphia’s products and have no other choice, I hope that Adelphia has improved their operation. I will never go back no matter what they do.

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
So after 7 years of Adelphia?s horrible business model you can probably understand why I?m happy to be done with them. I know too that businesses can change, especially under new management, so there is hope. For the people that are stuck with Adelphia?s products and have no other choice, I hope that Adelphia has improved their operation. I will never go back no matter what they do. I know exactly what you mean and I had a simular experience. I wish I had a $ for every minute I waited on-hold with Adelphia. When I switched to DSL with Bellsouth, I could not believe their CS. The MAX I've ever been on-hold has been 3 minutes.

I have to admit that my last experience with Adelphia has been Great. I had their HD cable connected and they were great. On-time and really nice installation crew. Hopefully their new management is going to turn them around.

WPTV-DT's H/DTV broadcasts were better this evening but not perfect. Although the pixelization/screen freeze combo problem was gone, there were several instances of a very quick black screen flash (no accompanying pixelization). The audio sync was fine.

It seems like Dave and his team have identified the pixelization/screen freeze issue and may be on their way to erradicating that problem, but they're not quite there yet. Let's hope they can figure it all out soon. It's much better, but they obviously have a little work left to do. It will be nice when we can all confidently say that WPTV-DT has high-quality, stable H/DTV broadcasts.

Originally posted by bsgoren
WPTV-DT's H/DTV broadcasts were better this evening but not perfect. Although the pixelization/screen freeze combo problem was gone, there were several instances of a very quick black screen flash (no accompanying pixelization). The audio sync was fine.

It seems like Dave and his team have identified the pixelization/screen freeze issue and may be on their way to erradicating that problem, but they're not quite there yet. Let's hope they can figure it all out soon. It's much better, but they obviously have a little work left to do. It will be nice when we can all confidently say that WPTV-DT has high-quality, stable H/DTV broadcasts.

bsgoren,

What receiver do you have? I notice the same very quick black screen on several HD station and I wonder if it is related to the receiver and not the station. I have a Sony HD200.

Originally posted by ANSEK
bsgoren,

What receiver do you have? I notice the same very quick black screen on several HD station and I wonder if it is related to the receiver and not the station. I have a Sony HD200.

While I too have the Sony HD-200 receiver, I don't believe that's the cause of it. On mine, I noticed this quick black flash on WPTV-DT only; none of the other DT stations have this problem. I'm still guessing that Dave and his team have been working on cleaning up their H/DTV signal as he said they would last week, and maybe they just haven't tweaked it all the way yet. Maybe they've fixed the pixeliization/screen freeze issue and they're getting close but still need to stablize it a bit further. Maybe Dave can chime in on this today or tomorrow and let us know their status...

Originally posted by bsgoren
While I too have the Sony HD-200 receiver, I don't believe that's the cause of it. On mine, I noticed this quick black flash on WPTV-DT only; none of the other DT stations have this problem. I'm still guessing that Dave and his team have been working on cleaning up their H/DTV signal as he said they would last week, and maybe they just haven't tweaked it all the way yet. Maybe they're fixed the pixeliization/screen freeze issue and they're getting close but still need to stablize it a bit further. Maybe Dave can chime in on this today or tomorrow and let us know their status... Same problem on my Sammy 351, its a station issue for sure.

bsgoren,
In addition to WPTV I notice the quick black screen on ESPN HD. I thought it might a problem with the receiver. Thank you for your response.

Does DirecTV still require the total choice package to get HD?
I hope they go back to the ala-carte method, then I would add them.

I would not give up cable, because many times I loose picture when a cloud rolls by. This is not the case with cable.

90% of the time I am watching HD via OTA using the Hughes E86.
I got HBO-HD, but tired of seeing the same movies over and over again.

I would add the HD package, but will not pay for total choice, since I have to have cable via the association fees. Why pay for the same thing for one room, when I can get cable in all rooms?

Yea, I know I have been told that SD is so much better than analog cable, but with a strong signal, it is not worth the difference for price.

Yes, DTV still requires total choice. However, if you are losing pic "every time a cloud rolls by" you are seriously misaligned, or have other obstructions in the path. I only lose signal in an extreme rainstorm, and only then if the bulk of said rainstorm is SW of me.

Originally posted by George33027
Does DirecTV still require the total choice package to get HD?
I hope they go back to the ala-carte method, then I would add them.

I would not give up cable, because many times I loose picture when a cloud rolls by. This is not the case with cable.

90% of the time I am watching HD via OTA using the Hughes E86.
I got HBO-HD, but tired of seeing the same movies over and over again.

I would add the HD package, but will not pay for total choice, since I have to have cable via the association fees. Why pay for the same thing for one room, when I can get cable in all rooms?

Yea, I know I have been told that SD is so much better than analog cable, but with a strong signal, it is not worth the difference for price.

George, have you considered VOOM or does their lineup not meet your HD programming needs? I'd love to get it myself, but our building's owner will not allow any devices of any kind mounted on the roof.

>George, have you considered VOOM or does their lineup not meet your >HD programming needs? I'd love to get it myself, but our building's owner >will not allow any devices of any kind mounted on the roof.

Iffin' you have any territory that can be considered to be part of your "exclusive use", such as a balcony, a patio, etc. the Feds are on your side and they can't prevent you from installing a dish. Let me know if you need a cite for the FCC rules - I have a copy at home. It is likely they can prevent a roof installation.

WPTV DT update. We have identified the flashing on the STL, which was causing the dropout/pixelization issue. I too noticed the quick burst of black last night, we do have a little more tweaking on phasing the transmitter, and hopefully that is the culprit. We should be the most stable we have been in a long time(ever?)Dave

Jeff
I believe we get more intense rain clouds SW than you do.
That is why I get drop outs.
It is aligned as best as it can for all 3 birds and 3 LNB's.

Originally posted by WPTV DT DOE
WPTV DT update. We have identified the flashing on the STL, which was causing the dropout/pixelization issue. I too noticed the quick burst of black last night, we do have a little more tweaking on phasing the transmitter, and hopefully that is the culprit. We should be the most stable we have been in a long time(ever?)Dave Dave - I watched you all last night and didn't have a single drop out. I was looking real good here in Delray.

Originally posted by WPTV DT DOE
WPTV DT update. We have identified the flashing on the STL, which was causing the dropout/pixelization issue. I too noticed the quick burst of black last night, we do have a little more tweaking on phasing the transmitter, and hopefully that is the culprit. We should be the most stable we have been in a long time(ever?)Dave

Thank you, Dave for the update. Yes, it looks MUCH better than it did with the exception of the quick black flashes. But, I'm glad you saw them too so you know you and your guys still have a little tweaking to do. We're glad you found the problem that caused the pixelization and screen freezes and hopefully it will be as close to 100% stable as possible by next week. Thanks. :)

The Master Golf tournament HD telecast on WPECDT (12-1) is a disappointment today. Despite a 100 digital signal strength and beautiful weather conditions, I'm getting frequent pixelization and audio dropouts.

The picture from 12-1 for the Masters was almost perfect with only a couple of drops. However, the audio was less than perfect, with frequent dropouts througout the broadcast. This is with a SqS 8 miles from the farm. Hope they can fix this 'cause I have a friend coming tomorrow to see the Masters who has never seen HD.

Today the audio was perfect. Thanks 12-1.

Originally posted by lwhitefl
The Master Golf tournament HD telecast on WPECDT (12-1) is a disappointment today. Despite a 100 digital signal strength and beautiful weather conditions, I'm getting frequent pixelization and audio dropouts. I watched it on 4-1 out of Miami and it was perfect both Saturday and Sunday! I just wish CBS would invest a little more money and get more HD handheld cameras.

I've been away for a while. While catching up today, I've read this thread and there seems to be an implication that 5-1 should now be stable picture & sound. I took a look last night and had lots of pixelation. Is 5-1 finally as stable as the rest of the local broadcasters? Or are some of you still having problems? I am especially interested in hearing from those who are still sharing my experience, but cannot be written off by 5-1 as having "1st generation" boxes (as I do not either). I also do not have an "e86 clone". Please advise.

Also, when is 42 going to go DT? I keep scanning 27, but still no show. Isn't it about time?

I noticed this morning at 6am that I was getting no signal strength on the following channels..16,29,35,67. Is this normal or do I have a problem ? I noticed this yesterday too but we had a bad storm in the morining. At 6am this morning it was only drizzling.

Originally posted by HobeSoundDarryl


Also, when is 42 going to go DT? I keep scanning 27, but still no show. Isn't it about time?

Last I heard, May 1.

Originally posted by vinnny
I noticed this morning at 6am that I was getting no signal strength on the following channels..16,29,35,67. Is this normal or do I have a problem ? I noticed this yesterday too but we had a bad storm in the morining. At 6am this morning it was only drizzling. The ABC station 16-1 should have been on. Not sure if the others are up and on the air that early in the morning. Unless its really bad weather, if the station is up and transmitting you should have some indication on your strength meter.

I went home at 12pm today and everything was back up except 16 WPBF, no signal strength. Can anyone in the Lake Worth, Boynton area confirm that its been up or down around 12pm to 1pm today before I start moving my antenna.

Thanks

If you live in Lake Worth and experience DTV reception dropouts, check again: one of our viewers who lives on Lakeside had severe dropouts on our signal until the FCC shut-down a Lake Worth pirate FM station this week.

Thats good news Dave, I had the impression that the FCC had given backyard pirates the pass.

Originally posted by David McRoy
If you live in Lake Worth and experience DTV reception dropouts, check again: one of our viewers who lives on Lakeside had severe dropouts on our signal until the FCC shut-down a Lake Worth pirate FM station this week.

Thanks for the info. I had to re-adjust my antenna a bit. Tonight im not getting audio on FOX29 WFLX :confused:

Originally posted by vinnny
Thanks for the info. I had to re-adjust my antenna a bit. Tonight im not getting audio on FOX29 WFLX :confused: I agree! Tried to watch Idol but there was no audio. More bad news, WPTV-DT (5-1) had it's audio sync issue again this morning. I tried to watch their morning news broadcast and the Today show but couldn't because the audio was about 1/2 second out of sync.

Originally posted by Joel Graffman
Thats good news Dave, I had the impression that the FCC had given backyard pirates the pass.

While the FCC is understaffed, they do make an effort to shut-down pirates who are causing real harm. In this case it had nothing to do with interference to licensed broadcast stations. One of our Sky 12 pilots, Terry Jones, complained to the FCC and the FAA that they were interfering with his communication with the tower at the Palm Beach County Air Park in Lantana. So, a public safety issue really gets the FCC's attention.

Incidently, I could take the FCC to within a few hundred feet of yet another pirate operation in West Palm Beach. Although most local pirates have been silent most of this week due to the recent crackdown, someone has been operating on 100.5 MHz. When they're on the air, you can get them all over east-central Palm Beach County. I noticed that when I drive into the Simoniz Car Wash on Military Trail between Forest Hill Blvd. and Summit, the 100.5 pirate covers the entire FM band. He's got to be in a nearby neighborhood.

Originally posted by Kenni_o
I agree! Tried to watch Idol but there was no audio. More bad news, WPTV-DT (5-1) had it's audio sync issue again this morning. I tried to watch their morning news broadcast and the Today show but couldn't because the audio was about 1/2 second out of sync.

Hey Ken...Thanks for the confirmation on the missing audio on FOX29 WFLX.

Originally posted by vinnny
Hey Ken...Thanks for the confirmation on the missing audio on FOX29 WFLX. No problem Vinny! I know it's always good to know that someone else has the same problem so you can remove your equipment as a possible cause.

FYI - I tried to contact Dave at WPTV about their audio issue but he is out at the NAB show and will not be back until the 24th. His auto email response indicated he would be checking his email so maybe we can still get this problem fixed if its still an issue.

Star Trek fans,

"Star Trek: The Motion Picture" on WTVX-DT Saturday at 8 PM in HD.

What's going on with WFLXDT (29-1)? It appears the FOX network is broadcasting the game in ED, but there's no sound. This is a big MLB game between the Yankees vs. Red Sox. Why can't these WPB DT stations seem to get their act together? Are we going to have to wait until 2006 or later?

Yes, WFLX-DT dropped the ball on this one...no audio. I had to switch to crappy analog cable...funny though...the picture seemed just as good as WFLX-DT's broadcast. :rolleyes: Oh yeah, Fox is still broadcasting in ED...it's so fuzzy compared to HD (and so similar to analog cable stretched to fit widescreen :p ). And, now they're sound is out during the Sox/Yankees game @ Fenway. How dare they!. :mad: At least I got to see the Sox beat up on the Yankees (for a change :D )!

Although the WFLXDT picture is only ED, it's still a better picture than I'm getting on WFLX analog via Adelphia and it's in widescreen. If there were audio I would be watching it. But sadly I'm having to watch the ballgame in analog - hopefully the Boxsox will prevail.

WSVN-DT FOX 7-1 upgraded to 720P and people in the Dade county market are very happy. They said that the ball game looked spectacular in true HD.

Meanwhile back in Palm Beach County......

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
WSVN-DT FOX 7-1 upgraded to 720P and people in the Dade county market are very happy. They said that the ball gamed looked spectacular in true HD.

Meanwhile back in Palm Beach County......

That it did -- although I watched the Marlins most of the time.

As one who watched FOX on WFLX-DT for several months before WSVN-DT finally came around, I cordially invite y'all to turn your antennae to the south.

Originally posted by wjbjr
That it did -- although I watched the Marlins most of the time.

As one who watched FOX on WFLX-DT for several months before WSVN-DT finally came around, I cordially invite y'all to turn your antennae to the south.

I wish that was possible but I'm limited to an attic antenna and it will not reach that far. Thanks for the invite though. ;)

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
WSVN-DT FOX 7-1 upgraded to 720P and people in the Dade county market are very happy. They said that the ball game looked spectacular in true HD.

Meanwhile back in Palm Beach County......

What ball game in true HD? Fox isn't sending HD yet.

No audio on WFLX during NASCAR race :(

WFLX audio is back on - got on the phone with one of their engineers and they fixed it :)

Originally posted by hdtvis4me
WFLX audio is back on - got on the phone with one of their engineers and they fixed it :)

Do you mean that for four days they didn't know there wasn't audio? Give me a break!

he said they had audio problems earlier in week, but that was fixed. problem today was Fox was not passing audio to them??? not sure - jst glad it got fixed.

Just flipping through channels this morning and noticed that WFLX was broadcasting this morning 7:30am ish. Have they recently changed their policy of not "turning on" the digital until noon, or was today just a fluke?

I didnt think Fox was sending any HD yet and as far as I know WFLX is setup for 1080i not 720p. Will WFLX be changing out systems or upconverting the 720p to 1080i?

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
WSVN-DT FOX 7-1 upgraded to 720P and people in the Dade county market are very happy. They said that the ball game looked spectacular in true HD.

Meanwhile back in Palm Beach County......

Originally posted by ARFF
I didnt think Fox was sending any HD yet and as far as I know WFLX is setup for 1080i not 720p. Will WFLX be changing out systems or upconverting the 720p to 1080i?

I'm not sure about the "HD" broadcasts from the Fox afiliate in Miami since I cannot pick up that station from my location, but I doubt that they're broadcasting in true HD yet. I know WFLX-DT still broadcasting in 420p ED, not HD yet. Also, Fox recently announced that "some shows" (I read they're hoping for about 50% of their programming) and live sports broadcasts will be broadcast in 720p beginning this fall, 2004 (not 1080i). I doubt that the Miami afiliate has already rolled out true 720p HD broadcasts considering the Fox network isn't feeding them true HD signals yet. I read that they chose the 720p format due to their many live sports broadcasts, like the Sunday NFL games, similar to ESPN's reasoning for choosing 720p over 1080i for ESPN-HD...supposedly more fluid and smoother for fast motion. I can't really see a difference between the two formats, but either one is certainly better than ED and SD. :D

you sure WFLX is transmitting 480p? I was pretty certain they were upconverting to 1080i.. Im gonna search the thread here for confirmation.. LONG thread though

Originally posted by toddmoe
Just flipping through channels this morning and noticed that WFLX was broadcasting this morning 7:30am ish. Have they recently changed their policy of not "turning on" the digital until noon, or was today just a fluke?

I checked WFLX this morning at 6:30am and they were not on yet.

Is anyone getting WLRN-DT ? I have been trying to get this channel for a while then I noticed last night its coming in without me changing anything..

WFLX-DT has always transmitted in 1080i.

Glad to hear that WLRN-DT is back up. I haven't seen them for many weeks.

Originally posted by vinnny
I checked WFLX this morning at 6:30am and they were not on yet.

Is anyone getting WLRN-DT ? I have been trying to get this channel for a while then I noticed last night its coming in without me changing anything.. Vinnny - I rescanned my Sammy 351 last night and I still don't have WLRN-DT. I did my check betwen 7:30 - 8:00. When did you notice WLRN-DT being back on?

Originally posted by David McRoy
WFLX-DT has always transmitted in 1080i.

Glad to hear that WLRN-DT is back up. I haven't seen them for many weeks. Dave - What is WFLX-DT sending out at 1080I? Are they just unconverting their normal programming? I thought FOX only provides their stations a 480I/P format max.

They are upconverting.. Dave, is the plan to continue using the 1080i upconversion for your station when Fox starts sending 720p or will you folks be changing out your equipment to send out 720p?

Well, I don't work at WFLX. I work at WPEC (although we do produce WFLX's newscasts). But I can say that WFLX-DT currently upconverts everything to 1080i. When Fox 720p HD becomes available later this year I suspect they'll still convert it to 1080i since Raycom is a very pro-1080i company, but they might surprise me.

WPEC-DT will continue to transmit 1080i on 12-1 and 480i on 12-2.

Originally posted by Kenni_o
Vinnny - I rescanned my Sammy 351 last night and I still don't have WLRN-DT. I did my check betwen 7:30 - 8:00. When did you notice WLRN-DT being back on?

I was watching WLRN-DT last night and this morning but this afternoon at 12:30 the signal is so weak that there is no picture :(

Originally posted by vinnny
I was watching WLRN-DT last night and this morning but this afternoon at 12:30 the signal is so weak that there is no picture :( Thanks .... maybe I missed it last night. I'll see if I can catch it tonight.

When aviators99 hinted in his post of 4/13/04 at 11:35 a.m. that WSVN might be going HD sooner than expected, I called and left a message for their engineer. Our colleague's suspicions were confirmed about an hour later when I received a phone call from their programming department advising me that they were indeed broadcasting an HD signal in 720p. I posted a short advisory to that effect at 5:15 that afternoon in the SoFla thread, and I've watched a few of the Fox network's widescreen presentation since then. The best picture quality so far has been from the scripted shows ("24" looked really nice), but baseball and Nascar were also quite impressive. Nothing yet in DD 5.1 as far as I can tell, so I'm looking forward to their first true high definition broadcast.

No more constant struggles to pick up WFLX. :D

I just saw this in the President's Letter on www.wxel.org :

"...effective Thursday, April 15 WXEL Television will begin the transition of adding its digital television signal. This will require WXEL-TV to lower its power significantly in order to accommodate the addition of the new digital antenna to the tower. This is necessary if WXEL-TV is to meet the Federal mandate of having its digital signal operational by the FCC deadline. The broadcast power of WXEL will be reduced approximately through May 5, 2004. Cable viewers should experience little difference in reception quality, however, viewers who receive their signals over-the-air may experience somewhat degraded reception. WXEL regrets any inconvenience this may cause its viewers."

If they hold to this schedule, that means that all the tower work will have been completed by May 5. So, they should be able to start testing sometime after that date. (They have to reduce power on WXEL-TV so they don't "cook" the tower crew while they are up there.)

Originally posted by vinnny
I was watching WLRN-DT last night and this morning but this afternoon at 12:30 the signal is so weak that there is no picture :( Vinnny - Again thanks for the info on WLRN-DT. I was able to get it scanned last night. Good strong signal so maybe their problems on Monday were corrected again. I noticed that Titan has them broadcasting in HD but I didn't find any last night. I thought that maybe when they came back on-air they would actually have the HD operating but I guess that was just hopefully thinking on my part!

Originally posted by David McRoy
I just saw this in the President's Letter on www.wxel.org :

"...effective Thursday, April 15 WXEL Television will begin the transition of adding its digital television signal. This will require WXEL-TV to lower its power significantly in order to accommodate the addition of the new digital antenna to the tower. This is necessary if WXEL-TV is to meet the Federal mandate of having its digital signal operational by the FCC deadline. The broadcast power of WXEL will be reduced approximately through May 5, 2004. Cable viewers should experience little difference in reception quality, however, viewers who receive their signals over-the-air may experience somewhat degraded reception. WXEL regrets any inconvenience this may cause its viewers."

If they hold to this schedule, that means that all the tower work will have been completed by May 5. So, they should be able to start testing sometime after that date. (They have to reduce power on WXEL-TV so they don't "cook" the tower crew while they are up there.)

Thanks for the report Dave. That's great news.

I like my tower crew about medium rare ;)

Originally posted by Kenni_o
Vinnny - Again thanks for the info on WLRN-DT. I was able to get it scanned last night. Good strong signal so maybe their problems on Monday were corrected again. I noticed that Titan has them broadcasting in HD but I didn't find any last night. I thought that maybe when they came back on-air they would actually have the HD operating but I guess that was just hopefully thinking on my part!

Kenni_o...Glad to hear your receiving it, I still can't get a decent signal on them :(

Ok, I see all the posts about WSVN 7-1 supposedly in HDTV, yet I did not see any programs in HDTV. TitanTV.com does not show Fox as producing any HDTV. I emailed both Fox and Channel 7 and have not received responses fro them yet.

Last night American Idol was looking real good for a DTV signal but it was not in HDTV, as evidenced by the black bars on either side.

Then 24 came on and it was full screen, indicating HDTV, and it looked real good. But I have no answer as to why Titan did not show them as HDTV, and even Fox on their web site does not indicate 24 was in HDTV on the schedule, like all the other stations do.

This one is puzzling.

I saw the notice of reduced power a few weeks ago. I am curious if anyone can tell the difference with their OTA signal.

My WXEL analog picture is rather weak, even worse than Adelphia's fuzzy re-broadcast. I've been checking it every couple of days but it seems about the same as always.

Jeff, Fox Digital Television is still considered Enhanced Definition Wide-screen. This is not true High Definition and is why it's not listed as such. Fox will eventually be converting over to some form of true HD in the near future. Apparently WSVN has the HD equipment in place but I am not sure if Fox is producing anything yet outside of the ED format.

Originally posted by David McRoy
I just saw this in the President's Letter on www.wxel.org :

"...effective Thursday, April 15 WXEL Television will begin the transition of adding its digital television signal. This will require WXEL-TV to lower its power significantly in order to accommodate the addition of the new digital antenna to the tower. This is necessary if WXEL-TV is to meet the Federal mandate of having its digital signal operational by the FCC deadline. The broadcast power of WXEL will be reduced approximately through May 5, 2004. Cable viewers should experience little difference in reception quality, however, viewers who receive their signals over-the-air may experience somewhat degraded reception. WXEL regrets any inconvenience this may cause its viewers."

If they hold to this schedule, that means that all the tower work will have been completed by May 5. So, they should be able to start testing sometime after that date. (They have to reduce power on WXEL-TV so they don't "cook" the tower crew while they are up there.)

Last night, my MIT-MDR200 locked onto channel 27-1, though there was no picture or sound and the signal strength was virtually non-existent. I hope that once they're live with their digital signal we'll be able to receive it here in Fort Lauderdale.

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
Jeff, Fox Digital Television is still considered Enhanced Definition Wide-screen. This is not true High Definition and is why it's not listed as such. Fox will eventually be converting over to some form of true HD in the near future. Apparently WSVN has the HD equipment in place but I am not sure if Fox is producing anything yet outside of the ED format.

That's what I thought too since I've read this in HT magazines and such, so why have some others swear that our local Fox DT stations are currently upconverting to 1080i HD? I thought that it's all been widescreen 480p thus far until sometime this fall when Fox switches over to 720p...is this not correct?

The source is 480p but the station takes that signal and upconverts it to 1080i. This does not make the programming true high definition, it's only been upconverted, big difference.

Originally posted by bgall
The source is 480p but the station takes that signal and upconverts it to 1080i. This does not make the programming true high definition, it's only been upconverted, big difference. Bgall - Welcome to the thread and from your post it looks like you will be a good addition.

For anyone interested, there is a great thread on the SA 3250HD box which is used by Adelphia to supply HD locally on their cable system. The thread gives you lots of info on how to setup the box and use its features as they become available with new FW downloads. It's very useful. The thread is called "SA3250 Comprehensive Review Guide - Notes and Setup" with the following link http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=346428

Originally posted by bgall
The source is 480p but the station takes that signal and upconverts it to 1080i. This does not make the programming true high definition, it's only been upconverted, big difference.

Well, this is true for all the WPB H/DT stations (upconverting in either 1080i or 720p), but it was my understanding that WFLX-DT was still outputting in widescreen 480p (although it's interpreted by your H/DT receiver as "HD") like all the other Fox DT stations around the country until the Fox network begins HD broadcasts in 720p this fall. This is what the magazines and other various articles lead readers to believe...take a look at the HDTV guides in HT and Sound & Vision magazines. They don't show any Fox broadcasts in HD and specifically note that the Fox network will be broadcasting about 50% or more in 720p this fall, but currently, they just broadcast in 480p ED. If some of their affiliates like WFLX-DT and the one in Miami were in fact upconverting to HD, wouldn't the "experts" let us know that? In addition, from what I've seen on Fox, it does appear that the widescreen broadcasts have been a bit lower in quality and clarity than those HD broadcasts on WPEC-DT, WPBF-DT, and WPTV-DT.

Dave McRoy - Am I crazy or is WFLX-DT really upconverting some their prime-time shows to 1080i? If so, they don't appear as good as the other HD broadcasts. I do know that their live shows and sporting events, like their NFL broadcasts this past fall were definitely in 480p not 1080i...they were very fuzzy compared to those MNF (720p) HD broadcasts on WPBF-DT and NFL (1080i) HD games on WPEC-DT. What's the real story? :confused: Thank you.

WFLX-DT upconverts everything to 1080i for air. So far they have never aired anything in true HD, however, since Fox has never fed anything in true HD. All WFLX has for sources right now are 480i in 4:3 and 480p in 16:9.

The Fox broadcast network is slated to begin HD distribution at 720p in 16:9 this Fall. I suspect that WFLX-DT will upconvert that to 1080i also, but I don't know for certain.

Thanks, Dave for clearing up this confusion. It will be nice to see their broadcasts in true HD as well this fall, especially their NFL games.

Sorry...ED just doesn't cut it. :D

I wonder if their conversion to 1080i would be better than my STB's conversion. I would think so, but maybe somebody can say for sure. My Mitsu doesn't accept 720p, so I have to have the signal at 1080i before it gets to the set anyway and I would hope that the station can do the conversion with much higher grade equipment than my STB. Anybody know for sure?

professional upconversion equipment is usually better than what a STB does, WFLX's SD looks the same as WPTV, WPEC etc... SD programming so they do a good job.

But what i really wanted to say is Adelphia is finally going to try to sell!!!!! I think it would be awesome if Bright House picked us up cause they do a rocking job on the HDTV offerings in CFL. But since Adelphia will probably sell the company as a whole nationally, it will probably be gobbled up by Comcast. Since their presence is already down south that's probably what will happen. Whatcha think? I've already made the switch to DBS but this should be good news for the cable folks

Originally posted by bgall
professional upconversion equipment is usually better than what a STB does, WFLX's SD looks the same as WPTV, WPEC etc... SD programming so they do a good job.

But what i really wanted to say is Adelphia is finally going to try to sell!!!!! I think it would be awesome if Bright House picked us up cause they do a rocking job on the HDTV offerings in CFL. But since Adelphia will probably sell the company as a whole nationally, it will probably be gobbled up by Comcast. Since their presence is already down south that's probably what will happen. Whatcha think? I've already made the switch to DBS but this should be good news for the cable folks Is that why Adelphia is busy trying to get some basic HD available. Maybe that makes them a little more attractive / high tech where they can knock up the asking price?

I would guess HD rollout and the sell idea are unrelated. Usually, in a sale of that magnitude you button down any new thrusts to make the balance sheet look as appealing as possible. Cut costs and cut development until after the sale goes through. Remember when E* was trying to get D*, it felt like D* momentum just kind of stopped for a while relative to new launches, etc. If the sale can happen quickly it would probably be a good thing. But if it is a drawn out process (which it might be based on the past shenanigans at Adelphia), you could get an Adelphia of old relative to new development thrusts. I hope they do sell (quickly), and that the buyer is a progressive company with a strong HD agenda.

Maybe that USDTV outfit could just buy Adelphia instead of trying to execute the over-the-air pooling strategy that looks like a big threat to HD broadcasting.

Originally posted by bgall
WFLX's SD looks the same as WPTV, WPEC etc...

Not for me, WPTV has far superior converted video.

Originally posted by Joel Graffman
Not for me, WPTV has far superior converted video. I have to agree with you. WPTV has the best PQ, especially on their local morning and evening news broadcasts. At times it looks almost HD quality if it was just in a wide-screen format instead of 4x3. Are they using special cameras? You can really tell the difference when they switch from the live segments to a taped segment during their news broadcasts.

David McRoy posted this earlier in the thread as to why WPTV-DT PQ looks so much better.
Hope this helps,
sfin54

Originally posted by David McRoy
Yes, you can really see how good SD video can look when the entire plant is component digital, as is WPTV's new facility. (The rest of us in this market still have composite analog SD facilities. But that will change.) And I think I read somewhere that WPTV's new Philips studio cameras are HD...but even if they are we are seeing a downconverted then upconverted picture from them for now.

Originally posted by sfin54
David McRoy posted this earlier in the thread as to why WPTV-DT PQ looks so much better.
Hope this helps,
sfin54 Thanks for the info. I didn't catch that post. That would all make since, especially the camera issue. But it makes me wonder why if their cameras were HD and they are always sending out 1080i, why would they downconvert? Wouldn't it make more sense to just send out the HD picture. Unless it has to do with using the same cameras for the SD broadcast. I think I just answered my own question!

Originally posted by Kenni_o
Thanks for the info. I didn't catch that post. That would all make since, especially the camera issue. But it makes me wonder why if their cameras were HD and they are always sending out 1080i, why would they downconvert? Wouldn't it make more sense to just send out the HD picture. Unless it has to do with using the same cameras for the SD broadcast. I think I just answered my own question!

I think they're still missing a few key pieces of gear needed to do the news in HD. Besides studio cameras, switchers and routers you also need character generators, field camcorders, editing systems and playout servers that are HD to do the whole show in high-definition.

Originally posted by David McRoy
I think they're still missing a few key pieces of gear needed to do the news in HD. Besides studio cameras, switchers and routers you also need character generators, field camcorders, editing systems and playout servers that are HD to do the whole show in high-definition. David - Dumb question - if they just wanted to broadcast their live studio portion in HD, do they need other items you mentioned? Couldn't they sent out a mixed format by unconverting their SD parts. I guess I'm thinking of how the golf HD broadcasts are done, where they mix the HD cameras with the handheld SD cameras. Whatever they're doing its great. Their local newscasts are very sharp but it would be great if they went true HD.

Does anybody out there have an RCA DTC 100 HDTV Directv receiver and is able to receive channel 55-1. I got the channel for a couple of months but now for the last two months I can't get 55-1. This is the only channel I can't receive.

Thanks

Kudos to WPTV-DT Dave and his engineers at WPTV-DT! We watched all the shows on "Must-See TV" last night and it was the most stable, high quality H/DTV broadcasts to date. I did NOT see 1 problem...no pixelization, no screen freezes, no audio sync issues. It was just great. ER looked perfect in HD (too bad the other shows are still broadcast in SD). Welcome to the World of WPEC-DT and the others! Great job of fixing those pesky issues that's plagued you guys for a long, long time. I know we ALL hope it stays like this. :) Thank you.

WPTV DT Updates
Reading thru some recent posts, glad to hear that most everyone is experiencing good quality HD from WPTV DT. On the news front, we do have Philips LDK 6000 Studio Cameras, which output HD and SD, since our current switcher is only capable of SD, we are using the downconverted SD feed for air, the plant is wired SD, and sources in analog are bumped up to SD before they hit the router. In the near future we will be moving to a non-linear playback system, in which field acquired footage will remain digital from capture to playout, this will improve quality of feeds. We do have an HD router currently installed in preps of getting more HD feeds into the system. We are currently reviewing the audio in our plant to accomodate DD 5.1 when NBC makes it available, hopefully later this year, they are still deciding on equipment purchases and installation issues. Good news from the recently concluded NAB show in Las Vegas this week, the tune of HD is MUCH more prevalent among manufacturers with more options on equipment and falling prices, which will help to drive HD to the front which will make distribution more widespread...I predict we will see more movement in the next 12 months than we have seen in the past 5 years. Dave

Originally posted by WPTV DT DOE
WPTV DT Updates
Not sure how many people view this forum, but I am sure we all appreciate your taking the time to post this. Thanks.

David,

THanks for the update but the fact is that your station still can't be tuned in on at least the RCA DTC 100 which is what I own.

I have sent you an Email asking what are your engineers doing to solve this problem and I have not heard anything from you.

Then your update above does not even mention anything on my problem.

Your station is the only station I can't tune in and it has something to do on your end.

So again I am very happy that some of your customers are happy with the service you are providing but I for one am very dissapointed.

Thank You

Originally posted by drguava
David,

THanks for the update but the fact is that your station still can't be tuned in on at least the RCA DTC 100 which is what I own.

I have sent you an Email asking what are your engineers doing to solve this problem and I have not heard anything from you.

Then your update above does not even mention anything on my problem.

Your station is the only station I can't tune in and it has something to do on your end.

So again I am very happy that some of your customers are happy with the service you are providing but I for one am very dissapointed.

Thank You

Although I understand your frustration and technically, you absolutely should be able to receive WPTV-DT and all all the H/DTV broadcasts with your RCA DTC100, but with all due respect, you may want to think about investing a few more bucks to get yourself a newer, updated D*TV/OTA H/DTV receiver. For example, since Sony now has the HD-300 receiver out, I bet you can pick up last year's Sony HD-200 at a very good price somewhere (I have this receiver and it's fantastic; I'm sure they made a few improvements with the HD-300). I also understand that D*TV currently has a good deal on a HD receiver (I think it's a Hughes or LG).

It's great that you're obviously an early adopter, purchasing I believe was one of the first HD D*TV/OTA receivers (RCA DTC100), but just like computers and other high-tech toys, these HD receivers get outdated very quickly, with newer and much improved versions out each year. :) Also, I think this scenario has happened in the past...it seems like just when WPTV-DT is finally sending out stable, quality HD broadcasts, someone complains about older receivers, then WPTV-DT makes a change, and suddenly, they have pixelization, screen freezes, or an audio sync issue again for all of us...I hope this won't be the case. :rolleyes: Sorry, I'm not trying to rain on your parade; I just don't want them to muck it up again for everbody. In addition, with my suggestion, you'll be happier in the long run with a much better D*TV/OTA HD receiver. :D

I don't want to rain in your parade and until you are willing to buy me a new HDTV receiver I will continue to ask for the same service you are receiving. This is the only station in which this has been an issue.

Yes it is WPTV responsability to make sure that a stable signal is being broadcast to all customers and if this was not the case the FCC would come hard on them.

Therefore, unless WPTV or bsgoren is willing to buy me a new HDTV receiver FIX THE PROBLEM!!!! or get yourself a good enginner to figure out the solution.

Thank you

I'm with drguava on this issue (even though I have a pretty new box). The ATSC standard has not changed, so a first generation box compatible with that standard should be able to decode the signal. More modern broadcast equipment should simply be better and faster at encoding the standard signal (not introducing elements into the signal that stray enough from the standard to create incompatibilities in consumer equipment).

More modern boxes should simply tune the standard signal faster and do a better job with multipath, etc. I still have a cassette player in my car. I haven't used it for years. But if I bought a brand new cassette (there are still some around) and plugged it in, I would expect it to play. I can still dig up the original CD player I bought in the late 80's. If I take a brand new 2004-manufactured CD and put it in, I expect it to play well too. That's what standards are supposed to do for consumers. CD players have come a long way since I bought that first one, but the standard of how the digital signal is encoded is the same.

5-1 should have a signal that is compatible with any device that can read the ATSC standard. Apparently, his RCA-100 is reading all of the other stations DTV signals just fine. drguava is right to complain. If his RCA-100 can't read 5-1, chances are good that there is still something wrong with the broadcast signal. If one or more others with an RCA-100 can confirm that they can't read that lone DTV channel either, the argument for him to buy a new box to solve this particular problem is not the answer.

I do agree with bsgoren on not wanting 5-1 to mess around with their signal anymore if it is indeed working now. I'd almost be ready to contribute cash to buy drguava a newer box if he was the only one in the area that still used the RCA (if we could get some guarantees that the 5-1 team won't mess with the equipment and thus it would stay stable going forward).

Lastly, 5-1 has achieved stability before. It lasted a while, then it came undone. I think I recall 3 distinct periods of signal stability followed by pixelation-mania. I would think that the chances of a "round 4" are higher if they are still not broadcasting the standard as defined.

I just got my HD DirecTivo, HR10-250 today. I removed my E-86 clone and put the new receiver in its place. I'm using two antennas with a remote controlled A/B switch because of channel 5-1. When the large antenna in the attic is aimed for best reception of all local Palm Beach County stations channel 5-1 will not work. Well, the brand new receiver acts the same way. There is no improvement whatsoever. Some people have said to try a RS variable attenuator and I will, but I still say that there is something wrong with WPTV's signal.

I also agree with Mr. Goren. Now that HDTV has become mainstream and affordable, first generation electronics will become obsolete. The technology will advance quickly and you and your equipment will eventually get left behind. At this time I don't think your DTC-100 is obsolete, nor is it the problem with receiving 5-1, but you should start thinking about what you will replace it with.

ElectricPickle, please give us a good local review of the HD-D*Tivo. Can you tell if the receiver has any further reach (getting any stations you couldn't previously pull)? Any big advances in the interface? Etc. Tell all... please!

Relative to 5-1, I too have reception problems using a Zenith 1080 (2nd or 3rd generation) reciever, unless I rotate the antenna away from pointing toward the broadcast tower. In other words, if i rotate the antenna to point almost due west- into the swamps- 5-1 stablizes for me. This is exactly as it was the previous times when 5-1 went into a stablized picture period. If it follows the historical pattern, we'll (almost) all enjoy it for a few weeks and then it will go back to pixelation mode. Let's hope not this time.

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
I just got my HD DirecTivo, HR10-250 today. I removed my E-86 clone and put the new receiver in its place. I'm using two antennas with a remote controlled A/B switch because of channel 5-1. When the large antenna in the attic is aimed for best reception of all local Palm Beach County stations channel 5-1 will not work. Well, the brand new receiver acts the same way. There is no improvement whatsoever. Some people have said to try a RS variable attenuator and I will, but I still say that there is something wrong with WPTV's signal.

I also agree with Mr. Goren. Now that HDTV has become mainstream and affordable, first generation electronics will become obsolete. The technology will advance quickly and you and your equipment will eventually get left behind. At this time I don't think your DTC-100 is obsolete, nor is it the problem with receiving 5-1, but you should start thinking about what you will replace it with.

Hey, let us know how your HD DirecTivo works...I'm thinking about that unit and the new Sony HD DVR (w/ 250GB HDD for 25 hrs. of HD recording/250 hrs. of SD recording & DD 5.1 audio recording) when it comes out later this fall - supposedly Nov.). It's supposed to retail for $800 ($700 w/ smaller HDD). Because I still love my HD-200 (and it works well with all WPB H/DTV channels), right now I'm leaning toward an HD DVR unit that wouldn't replace my HD D*TV/OTA receiver, just augment it with HD/SD recording capabiliies. But, there's a lot of new stuff coming out later this year and in 2005. :D Thank you.

Ohhhhh someone finally got the HD Tivo. Please do keep us informed on how it is working as I am very tempted to get this unit.

On the same note I have a similiar problem with 5.1 not working when I am using my large outdoor antenna. It is like it is being overdriven which I know the E86 and clones have a problem with but would expect the newer models to handle better.

My First Impression of the HR10-250 HD DirecTiVo

I ordered this unit to replace my 4 year old Mitsubishi HD-5 receiver (Hughes E-86 clone) and I use it with a 4 year old Mitsubishi WS55905 Diamond RPTV. The TV was ISF’d last year by Craig Miller of MG Home Theater. I use a Home Theater Master MX-700 remote control (a great one-handed ultra-programmable controller).
My wife uses an SD DirecTivo and we also had an Ultimate TV for a while.

There are ongoing discussions on the Tivo Community forum about other “first impressions” of the HR10-250 and about certain “problems” so I will start by referring to a few of them.

Lack of native pass-through for people that prefer to use their TV’s stretch & zoom modes: This is not a problem for me as I prefer “pillars” when viewing SD. Actually the HR10-250 lets me select a “ratio” (FULL or PANEL) via a button push. I didn’t have that before and I like it. Also available on the remote you are able to toggle through the different resolutions of 1080i, 720p, 480p and 480i. I prefer to leave it at 1080i with my TV but those that like “native” find it annoying to have to press a button to change resolutions rather than it happening automatically. Apparently “native pass-through” can be added via an update if DirecTV wishes it to be so.

The 30-second skip tweak still works.

The shortcut to get into the “Search Using a Wish list” still works. Just press the “DIRECTV” button and then the “3” key.

Hughes OTA tuners tend to get overloaded or have poor multipath rejection: The jury is still out on this one for me. I replaced my Hughes E-86 clone with the HR10-250 and so far there seems to be no difference in OTA signal strengths. As before, WPTV-DT 5-1 still requires me to switch to a smaller antenna. I realized tonight as I was attempting to utilize the dual tuners that, Houston – we have a problem. If I want to record two programs at 8PM, one on WPTV-DT 5-1 and the other on WPBF-DT 25-1, one of them won’t have the antenna that makes it work. This would also prevent you from recording one and watching the other as well. Someone else posted that a Radio Shack variable attenuator fixed their “overloading” problem due to them being 7 miles from the antenna farm. I will try to get one tomorrow and test it out.

The HR10-250 is not a “channel surfer’s” dream machine. But it’s not meant to be. It’s a bit slow to change channels but most PVR’s are. I miss the “Turbo Tune” feature of the E-86.

The guide menu seems a bit slower than what I’m used to but that may improve as the APG is still loading (it supposedly takes 48 hours).

It’s Tivo and it’s great. PQ is perfect either live or recorded.

Tuesday morning at 8 HDNET broadcasts calibration images. Record them and you can finally calibrate 1080i on your TV.

If anyone has questions ask away. I will do my best to answer them for you.

Alan

Originally posted by Bighitter
Ohhhhh someone finally got the HD Tivo. Please do keep us informed on how it is working as I am very tempted to get this unit.

On the same note I have a similiar problem with 5.1 not working when I am using my large outdoor antenna. It is like it is being overdriven which I know the E86 and clones have a problem with but would expect the newer models to handle better. I agree with you on the overdriven signal on 5-1. I can now pegging my meter on signal strength from it. I've gone back to using my Silver Sensor and pointing it to the south for Miami stations. I get a very stable signal on 5-1 off the back side of the antenna with the meter in the 7-8 range. If I turn the SS to the North I have problems with 5-1 and the meter pegs at 10. I'm using a new Sammy 351 STB.

It seems like this station is being unfairly criticized for putting out too strong a signal.

I use an attic antenna in Palm City and their signal is very strong. Those of you within a few miles of the transmitter using hi-gain outside antennas and pre-amps are fortunate not to overdrive any station.

Originally posted by Joel Graffman
It seems like this station is being unfairly criticized for putting out too strong a signal.

I use an attic antenna in Palm City and their signal is very strong. Those of you within a few miles of the transmitter using hi-gain outside antennas and pre-amps are fortunate not to overdrive any station.

Yet we do NOT "overdrive" the other stations. It seems as though these stations engineered their transmitters so that people living near them can receive them without having to resort to smaller antennas or attenuators.

OK. A good time to raise my question, or observation, I'm not sure what it is. And probably displaying my ignorance. I found these figures from this site: http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/audio/tvq.html.

WTVX - ERP=704kw; ant. height = 437 meters
WPBF - ERP=1000kw; ant. height = 452 meters
WPXP - ERP=1000kw; ant height = 385 meters
WPTV - ERP=900kw; ant height = 385 meters
WFLX - ERP=630kw; ant height = 457 meters
WXEL - ERP=400kw; ant height = 439 meters
WPEC - ERP=29.5kw; ant height = 285 meters

All Miami stations have an ERP of 1000kw except WLRN(625kw), WLTV (500kw), WPLG (15.8kw) and WSVN (14.4 kw).

I am assuming the ERP is their "transmitting" power? If so, why the ridiculously low numbers for WPEC, WSVN, and WPLG?

If ERP is their "transmitting" power, I am totally confused by my reception in Royal Palm of WPEC (far and away the strongest and most stable signal, yet 29.5kw)) and the signal I get from WPTV, which although comparable in strength to the second level under WPEC, fluctuates significantly and at all times. WPEC is VHF and the others aren't - not sure about the two low number stations in Miami. Does this explain the vastly different ERP #?

People are complaining WPTV is putting out too strong a signal. I don't see that in these numbers (if that's what these numbers mean) and I sure don't see it on my signal strength meter. I guess I need to recognize the individual variables my unique situation could present, i.e., buildings, trees, etc.

Anyone care to analyze this stuff and explain it to me in terms any dummy (me) can understand?

Originally posted by ricksm3
Anyone care to analyze this stuff and explain it to me in terms any dummy (me) can understand? Maybe one of the Dave's can chime in as both are engineers at their stations (WPTV and WPEC).

The only thing I can add is regarding the strength of WPTV's signal. I've noticed they appeared to be stronger after they worked on their equipment a couple of weeks ago. Not sure if in the process of fixing their stability problems, they are now getting more signal out of their equipment, but I'm now seeing stronger meter readings on my equipment. I've repositioned my antenna a little and get a more stable picture on WPTV when the strength in not pegged at 10. If indeed they are getting more strength then that is maybe increasing the multipath (more reflections) interference. As for big outdoor antennas causing the problem, that is not my issue as I'm using still using my SS on top of my wall unit.

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
Yet we do NOT "overdrive" the other stations. It seems as though these stations engineered their transmitters so that people living near them can receive them without having to resort to smaller antennas or attenuators.

There are a number of factors that could cause your problems with 5.1.

1. Your antenna gain is not linear. ie it could be higher on channel 55.
2. You might have multi-path problems at this frequency.
3. Your receiver also does uniformly process signals at all frequencies.
4. Regardless of ERP (effective radiated power), a TV transmitting antenna does not have linear uniform coverage in all sectors.
5. WPTV could still be having problems, but if they can be solved by using the proper receiving antenna it's probably not the case.

Any suggestions for antenna with Sam 160 and Directv ? I live just west of the "Rapids" water park...45th & Military.....Right now I have a "home made " antenna in the attic that recieves 5-1,12-1 very good .25-1 almost never/ 29-1 good,34-1 nyet,59-1 nope,67-1 good,67-2 good,67-3 good,67-4 good.....BTW is the Samsung 160 prone to be defective in certain aspects ?
DVI connection, freeze ups, PQ ??
Have had it since 12/03...with composite connection...Thanx and I appreciate all the info in the archived post's..Tj

WPTV DT
ERP, Effective Radiated Power. This is the maximum level of power we are authorized by the FCC to radiate. To achieve proper ERP, we use the gain of a two tube HD transmitter, to produce about 43kw of power, the rest of the gain comes from the transmission line and primarily the antenna. We check these levels every day, and measure them at least twice a year with test equipment. WPEC DT and some Miami stations are broadcasting on VHF, which requires about 1/3 of the power we need for UHF allotments...that is the reason for the lower ERP numbers on those stations. Our prior pixelization and signal level issues pointed to our amplifier boards, in error in production of them caused us to constantly calibrate the transmitter, the readings would not hold. Until we finally came across the problem boards, fixed them, and now the transmitter runs at more stable power output levels. We also isolated a problem in the microwave path that was getting the signal from the studio to the transmitter site, and repaired it. We continue to chase an elusive audio sync issue, and working on PSIP to be turned up as well as 5.1 audio. We are concerned with folks still having an issue with the RCA 100 boxes, from what I have read thus far, it points to only 1 user, but that is still important for us to chase down. Some options to try would be to try a smaller antenna, as many have found this helped. I would try to de-tune the antenna, we are puttting out a strong signal to north of Ft Pierce and south to Cutler Ridge. If Dr Guava wants to email me, or call I would be happy to come out to help with testing at his site. I am also interested if any others are still having issues. I too am enjoying nearly flawless reception of WPTV DT, I did notice a few freeze frames during Vegas and ER this past week, and we will try to address that cause this week.

Originally posted by WPTV DT DOE
WPTV DT
ERP, Effective Radiated Power. This is the maximum level of power we are authorized by the FCC to radiate. To achieve proper ERP, we use the gain of a two tube HD transmitter, to produce about 43kw of power, the rest of the gain comes from the transmission line and primarily the antenna. We check these levels every day, and measure them at least twice a year with test equipment. WPEC DT and some Miami stations are broadcasting on VHF, which requires about 1/3 of the power we need for UHF allotments...that is the reason for the lower ERP numbers on those stations. Our prior pixelization and signal level issues pointed to our amplifier boards, in error in production of them caused us to constantly calibrate the transmitter, the readings would not hold. Until we finally came across the problem boards, fixed them, and now the transmitter runs at more stable power output levels. We also isolated a problem in the microwave path that was getting the signal from the studio to the transmitter site, and repaired it. We continue to chase an elusive audio sync issue, and working on PSIP to be turned up as well as 5.1 audio. We are concerned with folks still having an issue with the RCA 100 boxes, from what I have read thus far, it points to only 1 user, but that is still important for us to chase down. Some options to try would be to try a smaller antenna, as many have found this helped. I would try to de-tune the antenna, we are puttting out a strong signal to north of Ft Pierce and south to Cutler Ridge. If Dr Guava wants to email me, or call I would be happy to come out to help with testing at his site. I am also interested if any others are still having issues. I too am enjoying nearly flawless reception of WPTV DT, I did notice a few freeze frames during Vegas and ER this past week, and we will try to address that cause this week.



OK. I figured those ERP numbers might simply reflect a maximum allowed by the license. So, how does anyone determine what the actual transmitting power is of any individual station at any particular time?

Originally posted by WPTV DT DOE
WPTV DT
ERP, Effective Radiated Power. This is the maximum level of power we are authorized by the FCC to radiate. To achieve proper ERP, we use the gain of a two tube HD transmitter, to produce about 43kw of power, the rest of the gain comes from the transmission line and primarily the antenna. We check these levels every day, and measure them at least twice a year with test equipment. WPEC DT and some Miami stations are broadcasting on VHF, which requires about 1/3 of the power we need for UHF allotments...that is the reason for the lower ERP numbers on those stations. Our prior pixelization and signal level issues pointed to our amplifier boards, in error in production of them caused us to constantly calibrate the transmitter, the readings would not hold. Until we finally came across the problem boards, fixed them, and now the transmitter runs at more stable power output levels. We also isolated a problem in the microwave path that was getting the signal from the studio to the transmitter site, and repaired it. We continue to chase an elusive audio sync issue, and working on PSIP to be turned up as well as 5.1 audio. We are concerned with folks still having an issue with the RCA 100 boxes, from what I have read thus far, it points to only 1 user, but that is still important for us to chase down. Some options to try would be to try a smaller antenna, as many have found this helped. I would try to de-tune the antenna, we are puttting out a strong signal to north of Ft Pierce and south to Cutler Ridge. If Dr Guava wants to email me, or call I would be happy to come out to help with testing at his site. I am also interested if any others are still having issues. I too am enjoying nearly flawless reception of WPTV DT, I did notice a few freeze frames during Vegas and ER this past week, and we will try to address that cause this week.

Thank you Dave for the update. This is great information.

Aside from requiring less power on a VHF channel for comparable coverage, we have to protect an analog station on channe l13 in Tampa from interference.

Thank you Dave McKinley and Dave McRoy for the valued information. If I were able to mount a proper antenna outside, instead of in the attic, I'm pretty sure my problem would be solved. last night I did some antenna tweaking and I did get a little bit of improvement. I Tivo'd Las Vegas from WPTV-DT and it looks and sounds great. The PQ looks as good or better than HD Net.

Originally posted by teejay44
Any suggestions for antenna with Sam 160 and Directv ? I live just west of the "Rapids" water park...45th & Military.....Right now I have a "home made " antenna in the attic that recieves 5-1,12-1 very good .25-1 almost never/ 29-1 good,34-1 nyet,59-1 nope,67-1 good,67-2 good,67-3 good,67-4 good.....BTW is the Samsung 160 prone to be defective in certain aspects ?
DVI connection, freeze ups, PQ ??
Have had it since 12/03...with composite connection...Thanx and I appreciate all the info in the archived post's..Tj
Composite connection? Are you sure? If so then you are not really going to have the eye popping picture quality from HD sources you might be expecting. You need to use the DVI or component outputs; otherwise, there really is not much point to having this or any other HD receiver. This would certainly be why you might be wondering if it has a PQ problem.

I have not used the DVI connection so I cannot comment on that feature for the TS-160. I am using the component connection to my set. The picture quality has been excellent from my perspective.

My TS-160 used to freeze from time to time when I first got it. It has not frozen since the firmware was upgraded in May 2003 to version 1.0.10 through the DirecTV sats.

What version does your TS-160 currently have installed? If it is connected to a properly aligned dish then you should have 1.0.10. If not you will likely have whatever it shipped with. To check go:

Menu -> Setup -> System -> System Information

Look for the "Software Version" in the list.

My TS-160 originally came with version 1.0.04 and it was upgraded to 1.0.06 the night after it was connected to the dish. I know version 1.0.06 locked up. The lockups were extremely frustrating because I had to pull the plug to reset the box and then wait while it downloaded guide data from the sat. I do not remember if I had any lockup problems with 1.0.04 since I only had that version for the week between when I got the receiver and got it connected to the dish.

If you already have version 1.0.10 then I would worry about whether you have a cooling problem. Make sure it is getting good ventilation in the location you have it and the ventilation holes are not blocked.

I have the 1.0.10 update...
I had read post's in a HD hardware thread that some people were being sent the newer Samsung reciever B/C of the freeze-ups..

When my Direct tv reciever and tri-dish were installed in Dec-03 the installer didn't seem familiar with the DVI cable and when he hooked it up had a black and white picture ,he called in and mumbled about "another bad box"...Nothing he did corrected the problem, and he insinuated that I was going to need to to wait for a new box...So I went over and hooked up the component cables ( sorry if I wrote composite) and the picture looked good so I told him to leave...

Now I wonder if the picture will be improved with the DVI cable..
The tv is a RP Mitsubishi , is this DVI cable different than others.?

Also is WPBF tower in Martin county ?

West Wing is not in HD on WPTV..... :rolleyes:

Wow that was pretty quick.

I was about to crack up when they ran the brandsmart HD promo, and then all of the sudden it's HD

they must've been taking a nap...

Originally posted by bgall
Wow that was pretty quick.

I was about to crack up when they ran the brandsmart HD promo, and then all of the sudden it's HD

they must've been taking a nap... Or someone called the station to let them know. That is the fastest way to get these types of minor issues fixed.

Originally posted by teejay44
I have the 1.0.10 update...
I had read post's in a HD hardware thread that some people were being sent the newer Samsung reciever B/C of the freeze-ups..

When my Direct tv reciever and tri-dish were installed in Dec-03 the installer didn't seem familiar with the DVI cable and when he hooked it up had a black and white picture ,he called in and mumbled about "another bad box"...Nothing he did corrected the problem, and he insinuated that I was going to need to to wait for a new box...So I went over and hooked up the component cables ( sorry if I wrote composite) and the picture looked good so I told him to leave...

Now I wonder if the picture will be improved with the DVI cable..
The tv is a RP Mitsubishi , is this DVI cable different than others.?

Also is WPBF tower in Martin county ? Well, I would make sure the box is not overheating. If that isn't the issue then try the angle of getting them to send you the newer version.

My Mitsubishi set is from before they started including DVI on the "HD upgradeable" units, so I cannot test the DVI output from my TS-160. you might check the Input assignment menu on the set. Maybe the DVI has different modes to choose from. From the manual I looked in on their web site for one of the newer models it appears there are different possible selections/modes for this input. Maybe a different one will work - that is if different settings exist for the Mitsubishi DVI input, I could be wrong here.

I doubt you will see much, if any, improvement in the PQ using DVI cables unless your current component cables are really cheap. In which case an upgrade to the component cables would be in order.

Yes, WPBF's tower is pretty much at the county line. Along with WTVX's tower.

Well, so much for WPTV-DT's stable HD broadcasts. Although they flipped the HD switch a few minutes into West Wing (since it started out in SD :mad: ), now the "black flash" problem was back, and it was very irritating as it occurred every 10-20 seconds or so intermittantly throughout the HD broadcast. In addition, their signal was fluctuating horribly as well...something is definitely very wrong...again. :mad:

I hope this wasn't the case, but I wonder if Dave and his team messed around with their equipment in order to find out what their issue is with that old, RCA DTC-100 box...like I said, I'm just afraid they would mess it up again. :mad: Although there's definitely a negative pattern evolving (bad - fixed - good - bad - fixed - good - bad ...), let's hope they can get back on track again.

Grrr... I hope not, this sucks the signal is all over the place now, can't get a lock :(

This is just an update on the HD Tivo HR10-250. It seems that the OTA tuners are similar to what I had in the Mitsubishi HRD-5. I did manage to get WPTV-DT 5-1 to lock steady at about 85 percent. First I tried removing all amplification from the big RS antenna in the attic - a straight shot to the receiver. I still got WPBF-DT 25-1 (my furthest station) but 5-1 still faded. WFLX-DT 29-1 does not count since they are at low power. What's frustrating is that as soon as I disconnected the RG-6 from the antenna 5-1 would crank up to 100 percent. Talk about overloading! The thing likes a 4 foot piece of coax best.
Next I tried the RS in-line variable attenuator - it didn't seem to make much difference.
I realized that 5-1 worked when I used just the rabbit ears behind the TV so I decided to combine that with the attic antenna. After a bit of tweaking all is well. With the exception of 29-1 (at low power) all local DT stations stayed locked tonight.

Thank you everyone here for all of the help and suggestions.

EDIT 10:28PM - I didn't watch the West Wing tonight so I do not know if it unlocked for me too. I can't check it because others are sleeping.

David,

AS I have mention before it is not a signal strength issue at my location with channel 55 but a signal quality/transmission at your location. I have a dish 6000 HDTV receiver connected to same over the air antenna and 55-1 comes in just fine along with all the other stations. My RCA DTC 100 gets all stations except 55. I have four different friends in the area with an RCA DTC 100 who can't get channel 55 but can get all other stations.

I hate to be a pain in the you know what but I am an Electrical Engineer and I am telling you that there are some issues with your equipment that that interferes with your signal integrity and is causing the signal problems with the RCA DTC 100.

I did receive 55 on my RCA DTC 100 back a few months when you change something in fact it was stable for a few months but over the last three months no signal.

I understand how complex this whole HDTV system setup is and probably finding the culprit on this issue is not easy, however thanks for trying and good luck in finding the needle in the haystack.

At least for now I can get NBC via 6-1.

Thanks

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
My First Impression of the HR10-250 HD DirecTiVo


I assume you got this from Value Electronics? Has anyone seen this in any stores or pre-order capability?

Originally posted by aviators99
I assume you got this from Value Electronics? Has anyone seen this in any stores or pre-order capability?

Yes, I got it from VE. I pre-ordered in early January. The last I checked on the TiVo Community forum they were saying that Best Buy and Circuit City were taking pre-orders and have sold out their first shipment due the first week of May. I'm pretty sure that by June you will see them on the store shelves. D*TV says that they will offer them "this summer".

Originally posted by bgall
Wow that was pretty quick.

I was about to crack up when they ran the brandsmart HD promo, and then all of the sudden it's HD

they must've been taking a nap... If you were able to receive Miami 6-1 it was HD from the beginning. They don't seem to have these conversion to HD problems.

To owner's of DISH 6000 HD receivers. Did you know that DISH has a special going right now that they will replace your 6000 with the new 811 for between $200 and $150 (apparently depending on what service you are signed up for). They come and put it in for you and you can keep the 6000.
As far as the 6000 is concerned, I am very happy with its reception on OTA stations. I have had none of the problems that many people have outlined on this forum. However, it has many annoying problems which they admit to, but they do not fix them. I am hoping that they have fixed at least most of these problems on the 811.
This offer is not on their website. You have to call DISH and ask for it.
TonyV

Has anyone had reception problems tonight. i normally have 90% on all the stations, but its been dropping down a lot tonight. I know it's a little windy and overcast with the bad weather lurking around but should it really be this much of a difference in getting a good signal?

I had no signal last night on WPEC. Haven't checked yet this morning. Anyone else have the same problem?

P.S. Just checked - it's back up.:confused:

If I recall correctly, tomorrow (probably Monday) is the day that 42 is supposed to begin DTV/HDTV transmissions. I saw a post several pages ago about a blank signal on 27-1 (which I hope was some testing by 42). However, I'm getting nothing on it now. I wonder if the deadline will at least be met with the beginnings of testing, so that a 42-1 will be live in a month or two. Anyone know anything?

WXEL has 5/4/04 as the day for their DTV transmission to begin, but I wouldn't hold them to that exact date. It also appears that WFLX-DT has gone offline as the set-up for WXEL (since they share the same tower). I was also on the fringe of getting WFGC-DT CH 49 (61.1) tonight, but didn't lock, so I'm not sure how long they've been going. I've still never gotten WHDT, I guess they're still not powered up yet.

Well I thought that I had WPTV-DT 5-1 fixed but it didn't stay that way. If I remove the channelmaster amplifier from the antenna then 5-1 doesn't overload but WPBF-DT 25-1 unlocks. I removed channel 5-1 from the "channels that I receive" list so the TiVo doesn't record it. I guess that's the price that I have to pay for WPTV to be able to beam their signal as far north as they possibly can.

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
Well I thought that I had WPTV-DT 5-1 fixed but it didn't stay that way. If I remove the channelmaster amplifier from the antenna then 5-1 doesn't overload but WPBF-DT 25-1 unlocks. I removed channel 5-1 from the "channels that I receive" list so the TiVo doesn't record it. I guess that's the price that I have to pay for WPTV to be able to beam their signal as far north as they possibly can.

Have you considered a tuneable UHF trap? For example; Winegard UT-2700.

I would have to say there are problems again with WPTV as well. I've been receiving them great but now the signal for them is all over the place and it is hard to stabilize

I was able to get WHDT for a long time. I am very close to their tower and using a big Blake aerial outside on a rotor. However, several months ago, they must have powered wayyyyyy down, because I've not been able to tune them in since. I know they are still there, because I do get a little signal. Don't worry though, the only HD I saw there was occassional quick (commercial-like) spots in which they showed local landmarks in HD. Those pictures were spectacular, but also few and far between.

I'll keep scanning for 27-1 (42) and I'll start trying for 61-1 (49), though I thought 49 was religious programming only. Is that not true?

5-1 is now fixed, no broken, fixed again, no broken... it's fixed and stable, now its broken again. Fixed. Broken. :mad: Someday we might get local NBC in a stable signal for more than a week or two. If average life spans are correct, I have about 40 more years to finally see something stable there. At least everyone else in the area has a stable DTV signal.

Yeah, 49 (61.1) is WFGC a religous channel out of Palm Beach. But its neat to start to have mostly all of our DMA's stations starting up on digital like they're supposed to. I got an indication that WHDT is there but wasnt ever able to lock on. What about the TBN 38 (21.1) affiliate they're supposed to be on but I've never gotten them. Hopefully WPTV will once again figure whatever is going on....

Originally posted by bgall
I would have to say there are problems again with WPTV as well. I've been receiving them great but now the signal for them is all over the place and it is hard to stabilize

I mentioned this the other day. My signal quality is all over the place, also. Plus, today watching the Ky Derby, the audio was horribly out of sync. Did anyone else have a problem with the audio out of sync?

Well I was only able to watch the derby in 2 second intervals but from those moments it looked like it was way out of sync.

I think the scenario bsgoren mentioned has happened again :(

Originally posted by bsgoren
I think this scenario has happened in the past...it seems like just when WPTV-DT is finally sending out stable, quality HD broadcasts, someone complains about older receivers, then WPTV-DT makes a change, and suddenly, they have pixelization, screen freezes, or an audio sync issue again for all of us...I hope this won't be the case.

From the signal bouncing around my problem sounds exactly like what Dave mentioned happened before, do they keep getting really bad equipment or something?

Originally posted by WPTV DT DOE
Our prior pixelization and signal level issues pointed to our amplifier boards, in error in production of them caused us to constantly calibrate the transmitter, the readings would not hold. Until we finally came across the problem boards, fixed them, and now the transmitter runs at more stable power output levels.

Originally posted by Joel Graffman
Have you considered a tuneable UHF trap? For example; Winegard UT-2700.

Thanks. I will look into that. Right now i'm really tired of antenna adjusting so I will ignore the stations that don't work. There is plenty of other HDTV to keep my TiVo occupied.

I have never been able to get a picture on WHDT. Isn't it still Very Low Power?

Can't wait to see if WXEL-DT 42-1 is successful. Aren't they are the last Palm Beach County station to go digital?

Yeah, WXEL is the last link in the chain. I hope they broadcast the PBS-HD channel 24/7 and multicast WXEL, unlike WPBT which only shows PBS HD in primetime and then multicasts the rest of the day.

I hate to burst your bubble but stable signal and WPTV 55 do not go together. They haven't been stable since they when on the air.

WPTV 55 has some equipment issues that unfortunately they have not been able to resolve. All other stations in the South Florida area seem to have gotten their systems up and running without too many major problems.

In conclusion stop blaming WPTV problems on the older receivers, which by the way work great on all other stations, and lay the blame squarely where it belongs with the WPTV 55 HDTV team.

Thanks

Originally posted by drguava
I hate to burst your bubble but stable signal and WPTV 55 do not go together. They haven't been stable since they when on the air.

WPTV 55 has some equipment issues that unfortunately they have not been able to resolve. All other stations in the South Florida area seem to have gotten their systems up and running without too many major problems.

In conclusion stop blaming WPTV problems on the older receivers, which by the way work great on all other stations, and lay the blame squarely where it belongs with the WPTV 55 HDTV team.

Thanks

I have to agree with you there...I would give WPTV-DT a "D-" grade for H/DTV in the past 12 months. WPTV-DT's record has been abysmal thus far. :mad: Although Dave and his team appear to be working diligently on solving their issues (whether it's an equipment problem or whatever), they have been ubable to provide a decent, stable H/DTV broadcast for more than a week or so (consecutively speaking) since they've been on the air (in more than 1 year).

All the other WPB DT stations have for the most part (with some definite occasional "burps" which is to be expected here and there) been ok to good with their H/DTV broadasts from week to week...I would give WPEC-DT a "B+", WPBF-DT a "C+" and WFLX-DT a "B." These are my grades IMHO for our local H/DTV stations, and others on this thread could agree or disagree.

Originally posted by ricksm3
I mentioned this the other day. My signal quality is all over the place, also. Plus, today watching the Ky Derby, the audio was horribly out of sync. Did anyone else have a problem with the audio out of sync? For those interested in the Ky Derby broadcast, there was audio sync issues from NBC on the Derby. Those of us who live in south county, we can get both NBC stations (5-1 WPB and 6-1 Miami). The audio was out of sync on both channels for the Derby. But 5-1 had a much bigger audio delay than 6-1. I've never seen 6-1 have audio issues before so I must assume that NBC was the fault for this broadcast. That said, 6-1 audio had a slight delayed (troublesome but watchable) where as 5-1 audio was total out (unwatchable IMO).

Originally posted by Kenni_o
For those interested in the Ky Derby broadcast, there was audio sync issues from NBC on the Derby. Those of us who live in south county, we can get both NBC stations (5-1 WPB and 6-1 Miami). The audio was out of sync on both channels for the Derby. But 5-1 had a much bigger audio delay than 6-1. I've never seen 6-1 have audio issues before so I must assume that NBC was the fault for this broadcast. That said, 6-1 audio had a slight delayed (troublesome but watchable) where as 5-1 audio was total out (unwatchable IMO).

6-1 "has had" audio problems on network telecasts since the beginning, but I suspect it is a network problem. Law & Order: Criminal Intent and E.R. are the two NBC shows I watch in HD, and Law & Order seems much worse in terms of lip synch issues.

Originally posted by aviators99
6-1 "has had" audio problems on network telecasts since the beginning, but I suspect it is a network problem. Law & Order: Criminal Intent and E.R. are the two NBC shows I watch in HD, and Law & Order seems much worse in terms of lip synch issues. Thanks for the clarification. I've always be able to switchover from 5-1 to 6-1 and found my audio issues fixed. I wasn't aware that 6-1 has also had equipment problems on their audio side. 5-1 has fought their problems for a while now and they were looking good recently. But the Derby audio problem appears to be a network issue and not a station problem this time.

WPTV is working again for me :) :)

Am I the only person not receiving WPEC-DT today? It has worked fine for over a year and now it is dead.

I'm getting WPEC fine, the signal is hovering between 70-80 when it normally is around 80-90. WFLX remains either dead or at very low power while WXEL is being installed

I am also having problems, yesterday and today, with 5-1, 12-1, 12-2, and one other (I can't remember) ... I thought it was too coincidental to be both stations so I was getting worried I may have been hit by a surge or something during yesterday's storm.

My Sony HDSAT200 is showing a slight signal but it's in the "poor" range so it then displays a message "No Signal".

Anyone else having difficulty (I'm in Jupiter) ?

thanks

Originally posted by crsanders
I am also having problems, yesterday and today, with 5-1, 12-1, 12-2, and one other (I can't remember) ... I thought it was too coincidental to be both stations so I was getting worried I may have been hit by a surge or something during yesterday's storm.

My Sony HDSAT200 is showing a slight signal but it's in the "poor" range so it then displays a message "No Signal".

Anyone else having difficulty (I'm in Jupiter) ?

thanks

Try rebooting your receiver or unplug it for about 15 minutes. See if that helps.

Originally posted by crsanders
I am also having problems, yesterday and today, with 5-1, 12-1, 12-2, and one other (I can't remember) ... I thought it was too coincidental to be both stations so I was getting worried I may have been hit by a surge or something during yesterday's storm.

My Sony HDSAT200 is showing a slight signal but it's in the "poor" range so it then displays a message "No Signal".

Anyone else having difficulty (I'm in Jupiter) ?

thanks

Check WPEC CH 13 (analog). If that is also poor, there is probably something wrong with your antenna.

BTW, the only way to re-boot an HD-200 is NVRAM reset.

Thanks guys I'll try unplugging it for 15 minutes, removing the card ... other things first ... can you tell me what you mean when you say NVRAM reset ? I've seen for a Huges box, you simultaneously hit "info" and ">" ... is this the same for the HD-200 ?

I don't think I get 13 ... I do get the normal local channel from both the antenna and DIRECTV ... can you explain this further ?

I've been looking for a way to do a hard reset, but couldn't find anything in the manual.

thanks very much

crsanders,

Here is the NVRAM Reset for the Sony HD200.

Simultaneously pushing the Left, Right and Select buttons displays the menu. If you reset the RAM, you will have setup the unit all over again

Hope this helps,
sfin54

Originally posted by crsanders

I don't think I get 13 ... I do get the normal local channel from both the antenna and DIRECTV ... can you explain this further ?


Sorry for the goof, WPEC is on 12 not 13. If you can receive 12.1 ( which is on the frequency of VHF channel 13 ) , you should be able to receive 12. If this channel is weak you probably have an antenna problem. If it is weak, you can hook the antenna directly to your TV or VCR to verify if your tuner is the problem.

Well, I did the reset and went through the setup process again but I still have little or no signal strength. My guess is the built in amp of my TERK TV55 (POJ) that I'll never buy again, was fried during our storm the other night.

I now see what you meant about tuning in the analog channel 12. I did that and confirmed very poor signal strength and a very fuzzy picture, the same thing that happens if I don't allow power up the coax to the antenna.

Ok, so I guess it's time to research which one's best and buy it.

thanks guys, this really helped me to isolate the problem.

Dudes, am I on drugs, or did Channle 7 Fox in Miami just change from 7-1 and 7-2 to 8-1 and 8-2?????

Jeff,

Channel 7 out of miami is on digital channel 8 being remapped to 7-1 and 7-2. They may be having problems with PSIP info, I will check a little later.

Ok, My Samsung was showing it as 8-1 and 8-2 today jst when I tuned in for American Idol. Yesterday it was showing it as 7-1, and 7-2, with the weather on 7-2.

I was browsing the distance learning info on PBCC's site and came across this page.

http://www.pbcc.edu/dl/docs/WXEL%20service%20interruption.htm

Monday, April 12 – completely off the air.

Tuesday, April 13 until May 3 – low power – this will mean decreased viewing area and / or no signal at all.

Friday, May 8 – full power, however, they anticipate being off the air completely for several days between May 3rd – May 7th.
I think this info is mainly for the disruption of the analog signal, but it stands to reason that we will not likely see their digital signal before May 8th either with the exception of any testing. It would also likely be the case that 29.1 will not be back to full power until this time as well.

Of course they could always finish early.

Originally posted by dragonbait
I was browsing the distance learning info on PBCC's site and came across this page.
[
Thanks for the info, WXEL-FM has also been very weak in Martin County.

Re: WXEL-DT antenna work, the good news is we're expecting excellent weather through the weekend, so there should be no delays due to high winds or rain.

Just an update on what Adelphia is now offering for HD service in West Palm Beach:

701: WPBFHD (ABC)
704: WPTVHD (NBC)
750: HBOHD
751: SHOWTIME HD
752: STARZ HD
761: HDNET
762: HDNET MOVIES

They SAY that they are only offering ABC, NBC, & Showtime at this time but I am receiving those other channels also. The customer service rep said that they must be testing those channels but that they will be permanent soon.

They should have INHD, INHD2, and ESPN coming online as well, but these are going to be in a HDTV PLUS TEIR so this is why you might not see those if they're even up yet. Locally Adelphia is still missing WPEC, WFLX, WTVX, and WXEL when it comes online.

It turns out that WFLX-DT being off the air is unrelated to WXEL-DT tower work. They're down because of a short in the IOT cavity (basically the part of the transmitter that houses the final output tube.) A replacement from the transmitter manufacturer, Thales in France, could take some time to be shipped.

Originally posted by Tiko
Just an update on what Adelphia is now offering for HD service in West Palm Beach:

701: WPBFHD (ABC)
704: WPTVHD (NBC)
750: HBOHD
751: SHOWTIME HD
752: STARZ HD
761: HDNET
762: HDNET MOVIES
I can confirm both HDNET and HDNET Movie channels are now available on Adelphia (Delray) HD service. Thanks to Tiko post, I checked out both channels last night. I found the PQ of HDNET to be the best I'm receiving. Equal or better than the OTA I'm getting. A really great PICTURE!!!! I do get a "Not Authorized" on the STARZ HD channel but nothing on HBOHD yet.

Originally posted by David McRoy
It turns out that WFLX-DT being off the air is unrelated to WXEL-DT tower work. They're down because of a short in the IOT cavity (basically the part of the transmitter that houses the final output tube.) A replacement from the transmitter manufacturer, Thales in France, could take some time to be shipped.

Thanks for the info Dave. France huh? Can't get it at Wal-Mart?

Yeah, we got ours at Sears. It's a Craftsman. ;)

Originally posted by David McRoy
Yeah, we got ours at Sears. It's a Craftsman. ;)

Better than any French product. We don't need to be giving any more money to France, but that's just IMHO. :D

WFLX-DT operates on DTV channel 28 and WXEL-DT is scheduled to operate on DTV channel 27.

I'd be curious to find out why this will not cause co-channel interference. If these were analog channels it would be a big problem.

Any takers?

Originally posted by Joel Graffman
WFLX-DT operates on DTV channel 28 and WXEL-DT is scheduled to operate on DTV channel 27.

I'd be curious to find out why this will not cause co-channel interference. If these were analog channels it would be a big problem.

Any takers?

VERY sharp transmission bandpass filters (extremely sharp cutoff after 6 MHz) permits such assignments.
Previously, building such filters was VERY difficult, but newer technology now makes such filters possible.
It is amazing to see the graphical results of a full bandwidth sweep (scan) of these channel filters over the 6 MHz bandpass of each channel assignment. There is practically no RF delivered outside the 6 MHz channel assignment, thus permitting adjacent digital-analog assignments, and even adjacent digital-digital channel assignments.
The FCC is extremely rigid on the specifications of these filters (hugh box-like units) which are installed as the last device between the output flange of the transmitter and the transmission-line feeding the antenna. The specs are VERY tight, and must be verified by a "proof-of-performance" before the station is granted the final license for actual programming.
In addition, much bandpass filtering takes place inside the transmitter, so the spectral output of the transmitter is very pure and clean.
Most digital TV transmitters now "lock" their already stable frequency to a master clock derived from GPS satellites.
The frequency stability of today's transmitters in phenominal, so it's next to impossible to 'drift' off frequency, and cause interference to an adjacent station.

750 HBO HD is no longer coming in for me now on Adelphia. The other channels, including Starz, are still coming in.

I will probably need to post this in a different forum, but my SA 3250HD box can't seem to ever remember the settings that I select. I constantly need to reset the Picture Format to "Pass Thru". ..it switches back to "Fixed" when I turn the box off...any ideas?

Originally posted by Jerry Rector
VERY sharp transmission bandpass filters (extremely sharp cutoff after 6 MHz) permits such assignments.
Thanks Jerry, very interesting.

I will be receiving my new Tivo HDTV HD10-250 on Monday hopefully this will finally resolve my WPTV 55 reception issues.

Any update on when WFLX will be back up? I thought it was supposed to be today but may have misunderstood. As luck would have it, I've been waiting a week to finalize my OTA antenna location and WFLX is the one I need to play with the most for an optimum setup.

Originally posted by drguava
I will be receiving my new Tivo HDTV HD10-250 on Monday hopefully this will finally resolve my WPTV 55 reception issues.

No, it probably won't. See my previous comments on this thread. The tuners on my HR10-250, 1) are no better at receiving distant DT signals and 2) still does a poor job of signal rejection and handling overloading (WPTV-DT 5-1) situations.

[EDIT] Let us know how it does when you get it on Monday. I'm hoping that it works out for you.

From all of the "first impressions" that I have read in the TiVo Community forum the tuners are pretty much "standard", not great but not bad either. It boils down to how good is your antenna arrangement and, in our case, how bad is your local broadcasters signal?

I am very, very happy with my HD-DirecTiVo and I would recommend it to anyone that plans on replacing their HD receiver and staying with DirecTV for the next few years.

I guess that excuse about the early receivers being the problem with WPTV 55 can be put in the back burner and maybe once and for all the engineering dept of WPTV 55 will actually solve their equipment problems.

Originally posted by drguava
I guess that excuse about the early receivers being the problem with WPTV 55 can be put in the back burner and maybe once and for all the engineering dept of WPTV 55 will actually solve their equipment problems.

If you are saying that the turner in the HR10-250HD is represents the latest turner technology, I would have to disagree. The two turners in the HR10-250HD are straight out of the E86 turner. In reality they are first generation turners. I will be getting mine Thursday. I am certain I will not be able to get WPTV but, it doesn't matter because I watch WTVJ out of Miami all the time.

Does anyone know why WPECDT's telecast of the PGA Golf tournament frequently reverts from a HD picture to SD? It started out in HD and then after a commercial break reverted to an SD picture for about 1/2 hour. Now it's back to HD, but who knows how long it will remain that way. Same thing happened yesterday as well.

Originally posted by lwhitefl
Does anyone know why WPECDT's telecast of the PGA Golf tournament frequently reverts from a HD picture to SD? It started out in HD and then after a commercial break reverted to an SD picture for about 1/2 hour. Now it's back to HD, but who knows how long it will remain that way. Same thing happened yesterday as well.

Are you sure it is WPEC's telecast or is it just the fact that CBS is only using a handful of HD cameras to cover the event. Unlike the Master's, SD cameras out number HD cameras 3 to 1.

I have the largest Radio shack antenna (VU-190-XR) mounted in my attic. The reception on WPEC, WPTV, WFLX (when operating), are all rock solid (solid normal-good signal on my Hughes HTL-HD signal meter, a bar chart with bad normal and good levels for signal strength). WPBF and WTVX are usually unwatchable. WPBF's signal is always varying between normal to good causing freezing and a lot of pixelization. WTVX usually has a bouncing signal much like WPBF, but at some times the signal stays hovering at bad on the signal meter. Both are very erratic. I seem to be able to get the Miami stations better than these two. WSVN is always rock solid at good on the signal meter, WPLG, WTVJ and WBZL usually all come in at at least normal on the meter, and since their signal does not vary, they are watchable. Any chance there is a problem with the Hughes HTL-HD, or is this typical of bad antenna placement and/or multipath problems? Suggestions on how to bring these two problem child stations in better? My location is loxahatchee.


Thanks,

John

Originally posted by ANSEK
Are you sure it is WPEC's telecast or is it just the fact that CBS is only using a handful of HD cameras to cover the event. Unlike the Master's, SD cameras out number HD cameras 3 to 1.

The same shots have been shown both in HD and SD during this telecast.

Originally posted by lwhitefl
The same shots have been shown both in HD and SD during this telecast.

I 've been watching the tournament on WPEC since just after 4PM and I have not seen anything that WPEC is doing to the telecast. It is just the way CBS is conducting the telecast with the limited number of HD camera's. If they would use half as many HD cameras for this tournament as they did the Masters it would be a much better telecast.

jmck407, go to antennaweb.org and put in your info. Have it draw the map that shows the directions of the antennas. I believe the 34-1 antenna is well to your north. I'm up in Hobe Sound, and I have to rotate the antenna considerably to pull it in. Once I've got the antenna pointed in the general direction of the tower, it is a great signal. I put a rotor on the antenna just for this kind of thing. If you have room to have the antenna turning in your attic, you might want to rotate it some (per the antennaweb.org map) and give that a try. If it works, you might consider adding a rotor.

Relative to 5-1, good luck... many of us continue to have on again, off again success/failures with 5-1. Based on (too) many postings in this thread, the problem is much more likely at 5-1 than it is with your antenna or system setup. Someday- hopefully before I age into an old man- we'll get a stable signal from 5-1. They've been trying to achieve that for more than a year, so perhaps sooner than later they will contact any of the other local broadcasters for help and get the job done right (now).

Originally posted by jmck407
I have the largest Radio shack antenna (VU-190-XR) mounted in my attic. The reception on WPEC, WPTV, WFLX (when operating), are all rock solid (solid normal-good signal on my Hughes HTL-HD signal meter, a bar chart with bad normal and good levels for signal strength). WPBF and WTVX are usually unwatchable. WPBF's signal is always varying between normal to good causing freezing and a lot of pixelization. WTVX usually has a bouncing signal much like WPBF, but at some times the signal stays hovering at bad on the signal meter. Both are very erratic. I seem to be able to get the Miami stations better than these two. WSVN is always rock solid at good on the signal meter, WPLG, WTVJ and WBZL usually all come in at at least normal on the meter, and since their signal does not vary, they are watchable. Any chance there is a problem with the Hughes HTL-HD, or is this typical of bad antenna placement and/or multipath problems? Suggestions on how to bring these two problem child stations in better? My location is loxahatchee.


Thanks,

John

I always have problems getting both WPBF and WTVX. I can tune my antenna to get one or the other but never both. I can't figure out why. It is true that some receivers are better at rejecting multipathing than others but I am not sure your receiver is the culprit this time. I have an HD200 and I have a similar problem to yours at times. I have given up on getting WTVX and tune my antenna for WPBF. I got rid of my VU-190 because I could not find a good place to mount it in my attic. I wish I could mount it in my attic because I would love to get WSVN and WPLG. I use a CM3018 and a Silver Sensor in my attic. I have the CM3018 pointed north and my SS pointed South. One thing you can try doing is increasing the pitch on your antenna. I found that to help.

Originally posted by ANSEK
I 've been watching the tournament on WPEC since just after 4PM and I have not seen anything that WPEC is doing to the telecast. It is just the way CBS is conducting the telecast with the limited number of HD camera's. If they would use half as many HD cameras for this tournament as they did the Masters it would be a much better telecast.

Don't think so. The SD format occurred around 3:30 - 4pm (not sure of the exact timing). Ever since then the telecast has been in the HD format. Same thing happened yesterday so I don't know whether it was someone at WPECDT that fell asleep at the switch, or if CBS had problems that forced a SD transmission for awhile. Actually the CBS golf crew has done a stellar job of telecasting golf tournaments starting with the Masters.

Harry Potter movie on WPBF-DT started out looking real nice this evening in HD and then quickly switched to SD and remained there (at least until 10:00PM) when we flipped to HBO-HD to watch The Sopranos.

Originally posted by jmck407
I have the largest Radio shack antenna (VU-190-XR) mounted in my attic. John WTVX & WPBF are in Martin County. Your options are:
1. Use an antenna rotator.
2. Add another antenna with an A/B switch.
3. Add an antenna using a coupler and filters ( may not work and is tricky )

Note: most of this antenna size is because it is designed to accommodate channels 2-6, channels you don't need. It's probably not the best antenna for an attic installation.

Originally posted by Joel Graffman
WTVX & WPBF are in Martin County. Your options are:
1. Use an antenna rotator.
2. Add another antenna with an A/B switch.
3. Add an antenna using a coupler and filters ( may not work and is tricky )

Note: most of this antenna size is because it is designed to accommodate channels 2-6, channels you don't need. It's probably not the best antenna for an attic installation.

A channel Master amplifier helped me with the same situation that you have. I also use a RS antenna in the attic (not the one that you are using though) and I positioned it to receive 25-1 and 34-1 for best signal. I could not get it to lock until I added the amplifier. I did the A/B switch for a while to get channel 5-1 to work with it but now that I have the HD TiVo thats not an option.

Thanks to everyone for the suggestions. I went to antennaweb.org and as a few mentioned the two stations I am having problems with are both NW, and I have my antenna pointing S /SE. I have a much smaller vhf antenna I used to use, will try to put that in the attic pointing NW and see how that brings in 34-1 and 25-1. The VU-190 was on sale when I bought it ($70), and if I stay permanently in my house I might mount it outside, so that is one of the reasons I bought this antenna instead of one of the smaller ones. I like being able to tune in the Miami stations, so Pickle you think a smaller antenna would still be able to pick up the Miami stations (since none are in 2-6 range)? A smaller antenna would allow me to position it better. I was mostly going off the mileage ratings listed for the antennas, and the VU-190 was listed with the longest ranges...but if most of the size if for freqs I can't use anyway....btw....channel 5-1 and 13-1, and 7-1 are the most stable channels signal strength wise for me. Funny when I was in Miami, I was looking forward to getting WFLX, since WSVN would never send out fox's EDTV widescreen signal.....then when I get up here WFLX has been mostly out, and WSVN now is broadcasting fox's 720p signal when available.

jmck407, I'm going to bet trying that smaller VHF antenna to pull 34-1 & 25-1 won't work. Why? Because both are UHF channels. 25-1 is remapped from UHF 16. 34-1 is remapped from UHF 50. I suspect you'll need a UHF antenna pointed toward the NW to get these stations. But since you have it already, it probably won't hurt to give it a try.

Also, a couple of Miami stations and one PB station are broadcasting their digital channel from a VHF assignment. My UHF (only) antenna is able to pick up 12-1 in spite of it originating on VHF 13. From your location you may need a VHF antenna to pull a couple of Miami stations with DTV spectrum in the VHF allocations. I agree you probably don't need a giant antenna. And I agree that the bulk of the size of whatever antenna you ultimately end up with should be dedicated to UHF spectrum. I mounted a UHF only monster outside. But with it, I can sometimes pull a number of channels from as far away as Orlando.

Originally posted by jmck407
I like being able to tune in the Miami stations, so Pickle you think a smaller antenna would still be able to pick up the Miami stations (since none are in 2-6 range)? A smaller antenna would allow me to position it better. I was mostly going off the mileage ratings listed for the antennas, and the VU-190 was listed with the longest ranges...but if most of the size if for freqs I can't use anyway....btw....channel 5-1 and 13-1, and 7-1 are the most stable channels signal strength wise for me.

With my antenna in the attic and no rotator being used I had to choose between getting some of the Miami stations or the two Palm Beach County stations that are furthest away (25-1 & 34-1). So I'm pointed Northwest and the Miami stations don't lock using the back of the antenna. I have also tried various combinations of "combined" antennas with poor results. It boils down to if I want a lock on 25-1 then I can forget about the Miami stations. Also, depending on which receiver you are using, when you point your antenna North you could lose 5-1 due to overloading. In Royal Palm Beach I'm a couple of miles due North of 5-1's transmitter so I could be receiving the brunt of their Northbound beam.

I may be able to go with an external antenna here pretty soon. I was wondering if anyone could suggest what to use for a mast. I do not want to use the steel pipes and I'm looking for something that would be retractable or fold-able. What I have seen so far runs from $600 to over $1000. Also, who locally sells and installs antenna masts? I see two radio communication companies in the yellow pages that may have what I'm looking for. Is that the way to go? Ordering on the Internet usually requires freight shipping which is expensive. Any help would be appreciated.

For anyone that's interested, according to WFLX's Chief Engineer, they should be back up tomorrow. Although he added an "I hope" to that, so seeing is believing.

Electricpickle:

Sounds like you live in a townhouse. So do I. For whatever it's worth - I took a 10'galvanized pole (I know you said you don't want a pole), painted it black to match my patio screen and attached it to the screen frame using several u-bolt type of connectors. Whole thing cost about $20 or so. I then put up a Square Shooter. If I compromise the aim about 20 degrees north of optimum to get the Lake Worth towers, I can pick up all of the Lake Worth towers and get the two northern towers. This is even though my townhouse is two stories and it completely blocks the path to the northern towers. I also have an adjacent two story building in the way of Miami so no luck on getting anything from them. However, I'm not happy that the compromise direction diminishes somewhat the signal quality from the Lake Worth stations. I can pick up the northern towers even better simply using a Silver Sensor in my living room. So, I'm gonna reaim the Square Shooter more toward Lake Worth and use an A/B switch with the Silver Sensor inside for the two northern stations.

Is it just your desire to use such an expensive method for an exterior antenna or are you in some situation that requires it?

RICKSM3, Thanks for the reply. No, I live in a house on a 1/4 acre lot. The restrictions were only aesthetic and those restrictions no longer apply. So I'm only looking into going with an outdoor antenna at this point but I'm not sure that it's worth it. If I decide to go outside then I would build something substantial that would hold several antennas and maybe my satellite dish too.

Originally posted by HobeSoundDarryl
jmck407, I'm going to bet trying that smaller VHF antenna to pull 34-1 & 25-1 won't work. Why? Because both are UHF channels. 25-1 is remapped from UHF 16. 34-1 is remapped from UHF 50. I suspect you'll need a UHF antenna pointed toward the NW to get these stations. But since you have it already, it probably won't hurt to give it a try.

Also, a couple of Miami stations and one PB station are broadcasting their digital channel from a VHF assignment. My UHF (only) antenna is able to pick up 12-1 in spite of it originating on VHF 13. From your location you may need a VHF antenna to pull a couple of Miami stations with DTV spectrum in the VHF allocations. I agree you probably don't need a giant antenna. And I agree that the bulk of the size of whatever antenna you ultimately end up with should be dedicated to UHF spectrum. I mounted a UHF only monster outside. But with it, I can sometimes pull a number of channels from as far away as Orlando.


oops...I meant a smaller uhf antenna. I used it for a few months while I was in a temp Town House in Miami, and the only channels that gave me problems were the vhf ones. Orlando channels...wow...that would be cool.

John

Jmck, where in Lox are you located? I am near Orange and 180th and I use a Channel Master 4228 mounted outdoors pointed south and a RadioShack Double Bowtie inside pointed north connected to a remote A/B switch and pick up all stations except for the VHF miami stations. This used to be the only way to get both stations when I had a Toshiba DST-3000 as my primary HD reciever, it is based off the Hughes E-86 and was not good at dealing with Multipath. I picked up a Samsung T360 this weekend as I will be needing a few HD recievers once I move into my new house this summer and it is much better at dealing with multipath. I am able to pick up all stations now with just using the CM 4228 outside. This antenna is not as directional as yours though so take that into consideration, otherwise just go to radio shack and pick up the double bowtie antenna and the $30 A/B switcher which is remote controlable.

BigH,

I am near Hall and 61st. I have two mitsu hd5's that I will start using in other rooms once things get settled, the Hughes HTL-HD seems to get OTA better than the hd5's. If the north uhf ant works then I will probably go with the remote a/b like your setup. I don't really need 25-1 (ABC) since WPLG usually is fine, but watching Enterprise has been frustrating the last two weeks because of the reception problems with 34-1,...and 33-1 comes in only on rare occasions.

I am just North of BigH at Hamlin at 180th. I have a big RCA (forget the model) antenna in the attic pointed south and use a Silver Sensor inside pointed north. The RCA usually picks up 25-1 even though it is pointing south. Occasionally, I have to use the North pointing SS to get 25-1 and always have to use the SS to get 34-1. I am using a manual A/B switch since every time I went to radio shack they were out of the ones with remotes. Not a big deal since I only have to switch it once a week for Enterprise. The antennas feed a Samsung TS160.

I do have the same problems as many others with 5-1's signal, but since I don't watch NBC it hasn't bothered me.

Anyone hear about this ? http://www.usdtv.com/

Dragon,

My new house is actually just north of you at 93rd Road off of calamondun(sp). I probably drive by your house everyday on my way home from checking in on the new house. For the new house I went ahead and pre-ran 2 RG6/QS runs for OTA so I will be able to setup 2 antennas outside if need be.

Actually, I was being a little generic on the location. I am on 93rd as well, but on the side with access from 180th. I ran two additional RG6 lines (for a total of 3 now) and a CAT-5e line a couple months ago when the weather was cooler. If you are interested in cable modem Internet access you are getting here at the right time. Adelphia just wired this section in November and turned us on in January. No BellSouth DSL available here.

vinny, yes. Do a search and you'll find several dedicated threads and lots of (mostly very adverse) comments about the USDTV plan. In looking at them pretty hard, I agree with the crowd in seeing more bad (for HD) than good. It looks like a scary proposition for HD fans if it takes off.

On another topic, 29-1 is back up. But I'm not getting anything on 27-1. I hope 42 starts testing soon. PBS-HD would be a nice addition to the mix. Then, only NBC would still be on the verge of (stable) DTV/HDTV in the area.

dragonbait--
Get your remote A-B switch the easy way -- maybe.

http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=15-1968

WFLX isn't being stable for me, also there is no PSIP data anymore (doesn't re-map)

WPBF hasn't been passing anything in HD ever since it got switched to SD during Harry Potter so I wonder if there is a problem there, also still waiting for them to fix their PSIP stream as well...

bgall, are you using a Satt reciever? I've got guide data for both channels but they're fed by D* and do not depend on embedded PSIP. I just checked to be sure, and they are both there.

Originally posted by wjbjr
Get your remote A-B switch the easy way -- maybe.

http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&product%5Fid=15-1968
I know, but I cannot bring myself to buy online from Radio Shack. I guess all those years of them insisting they needed my name and address to buy something simple like a battery has made me wary of their intentions with my information. One time a cleck insisted I could not use my AMEX card without providing address information. I made him call AMEX to find out that address information cannot be a requirement for a credit card purchase. Trust is easily broken and takes a long time to rebuild.

Dragon, I currently have powerlink and it has been extremely fast for the past 3 years we have had it out here. Our future neighbors moved in across the street and they just informed me adelphia finally is providing access over there. I guess we will have to jump the canal one time to meet up.

Originally posted by HobeSoundDarryl
bgall, are you using a Satt reciever? I've got guide data for both channels but they're fed by D* and do not depend on embedded PSIP. I just checked to be sure, and they are both there.

I have an 811 which uses the PSIP from OTA to remap channels, the 811 doesnt provide guide data yet. Since your info comes from D* over SAT you wouldn't notice this then.

Well just an update on reception of WPTV 55 I just purchase a TIVO HDTV HR10-250 receiver and guess what 55 is the only channel locally that doesn't come in. In addition I also took advantage of the Directv HDTV receiver for $99 and got a Hughes HDTV receiver (replaces my RCA DTC 100) on this receiver with the same connection as TIVO receiver 55 comes in fine.

Bottom line 55 still has major broadcasting issues with certain receivers.

Originally posted by drguava
Well just an update on reception of WPTV 55 I just purchase a TIVO HDTV HR10-250 receiver and guess what 55 is the only channel locally that doesn't come in. In addition I also took advantage of the Directv HDTV receiver for $99 and got a Hughes HDTV receiver (replaces my RCA DTC 100) on this receiver with the same connection as TIVO receiver 55 comes in fine.

Bottom line 55 still has major broadcasting issues with certain receivers.

Here is something funny. I have a HR10-250 and I get WPTV-DT just fine. I found it odd considering all of the complaints. When I check my signal strength meter it bounces from 72 to 92. I wonder if location influences the problem?

It does seem the complaints seem to originate from north of the towers, atleast the majority of them.

Channel 55 comes in fine on both of my HR10-250s and my Zenith SAT520 and I am in Coral Springs. :) I watch that channel instead of WTVJ.

Since the HD-TIVOs represent the very latest in boxes, I guess the argument about old or 1st generation boxes can cease now. drguava cannot buy a newer generation box. 55-1, can you please (PLEASE!!!) fix the problem. Can't you demand that the manufacturer of the stuff you bought that differs from every other broadcaster in the area take it back (or fix it once and for all ASAP)? There must be some kind of warranty with it, right? If you can get them to take it back, perhaps you could replace it with one of the platforms that seems to work (nearly flawlessly) in the area. How long must this go on?

WPTV-DT 5-1. It's those of us that live within a few miles of the transmitter that are having problems. Especially those of us a few miles to the north. I ordered and received the variable UHF trap that was suggested here a few pages back. I'm still tweaking it but so far it does fix 5-1, at the expense of another channel like 29-1. I don't have the equipment that shows which frequencies I'm trapping so it's trial and error. I think it may eventually work though. I would be happier if WPTV-DT would make an effort to fix the problem.

Pickle, I am north but I'm quite a bit further from the towers (Hobe Sound) than you. I'm using a fairly modern box (Zenith 1080). I think it's nuts that the signal is stable for some and not for others. They've been broadcasting for more than 1 year now. When are they going to get it right?

However, if the problem is truly directional, it may be a clue for the team at 55-1. Anybody E or S of the towers have reception problems?

I was able to watch the Preakness yesterday on WPTVDT (5-1). The HD picture was stable, but the audio was bad to terrible with audio sync problems. Fortunately most sporting events don't require audio. But it's still an indicator that after all this time, either WPTVDT and/or NBC still doesn't completely have their act together.

Originally posted by ElectricPickle
WPTV-DT 5-1. It's those of us that live within a few miles of the transmitter that are having problems. Especially those of us a few miles to the north. I ordered and received the variable UHF trap that was suggested here a few pages back. I'm still tweaking it but so far it does fix 5-1, at the expense of another channel like 29-1.
If your trap is adjusted correctly, it should not affect 29.1. It's probably easier to look a standard picture. Try adjusting the trap so that it does not degrade channel 29 SDTV. This should fix the problem with 29.1 which is in reality UHF channel 28.

Originally posted by HobeSoundDarryl
Since the HD-TIVOs represent the very latest in boxes, I guess the argument about old or 1st generation boxes can cease now. drguava cannot buy a newer generation box. 55-1, can you please (PLEASE!!!) fix the problem. Can't you demand that the manufacturer of the stuff you bought that differs from every other broadcaster in the area take it back (or fix it once and for all ASAP)? There must be some kind of warranty with it, right? If you can get them to take it back, perhaps you could replace it with one of the platforms that seems to work (nearly flawlessly) in the area. How long must this go on?

Darryl,

I hate to disagree with you but the HD TiVo does not represent the latest in DTV receiver technology. The turners used in the HD TiVo are three years old. The HD300, LG 3200A and Samsung 361 are the latest DTV receiver technology.

Originally posted by ANSEK
Darryl,

I hate to disagree with you but the HD TiVo does not represent the latest in DTV receiver technology. The turners used in the HD TiVo are three years old. The HD300, LG 3200A and Samsung 361 are the latest DTV receiver technology. That may be but HobeSoundDarryl's point is still valid.
Originally posted by HobeSoundDarryl
the argument about old or 1st generation boxes can cease now.No station should be making claims that we should dump our older generation tuners and get boxes with nth generation tuners if we cannot lock their signal. The HD TiVo is a product that has been newly introduced to the marketplace, which demonstrates that tuners of older generations are still being installed and are going to be here for a while. Broadcasters better learn to deal with it and fix their signal because these tuners are going to be here for some time and I expect their numbers will increase rapidly with this TiVo capable HD box.

Any box for which I layout lots of $$$ for better serve me well for many years. And if a broadcaster wants to write me off because I have older tuners then I guess I will just write them off as well.

I am south of the towers and as I mention before I have two HDTV receivers one is the Hughes and in this one 55 comes in fine the other is the TIVO HR10-250 with this one I can't get 55 with the same set up as the Hughes. Previously I had an RCA DTC 100 which could not get 55 either.

I think is more than just a directional issue it seems that whatever signal their equipment is putting out is a degraded signal which causes some tuners to not be able to pickup the signal.

I agree that the engineering department at WPTV 55 needs to get in touch with the receivers manufacturers and see if they can some how find a solution to the problem.

From USA Today:
Masses tune in to superhero abilities of HDTV (http://www.usatoday.com/tech/techinvestor/2004-05-16-bonus-digitaltvs_x.htm)

Snippits:

HDTV's reception among the masses is brightening. According to the Consumer Electronics Association, manufacturer-to-dealer digital TV sales for the first quarter of 2004 totaled 1.39 million, a 104% climb over the same period in 2003. By 2007, nearly one-third of American households will be tuning in to HD programs.

"Two or three years ago, people were calling HDTV a failure," says Gary Shapiro, chief executive of the CEA. Today, Shapiro says, "I have very little worries."

Indeed, the digital migration appears inevitable. "The transition we've embarked on is not really any different from the transition from black-and-white to color TV," says Glenn Britt, CEO of Time Warner Cable.
--------------------------
Also helping drive down prices: Cable operators such as Time Warner and Cablevision say they are not charging extra to show high-definition versions of programs already broadcast in analog. Subscribers do have to fork over a premium for pay channels.

--------------------------
Fox plans to show at least half its prime-time lineup in HD beginning this fall.
-------------------------
It seems far less likely that another deadline will be met: that if 85% of U.S. households have access to digital reception by 2007, analog signals will disappear and existing TVs will be obsolete.

"Does anybody really believe at the end of 2006 we're going to shut off analog TV? No," says Dave Arland of Thomson, maker of the RCA brand. "But I think that day will come in 2010 or 2012."

--------------------------
Depending on what and when you buy, you may or may not get a set with the latest connectors. "Generally speaking, technology is going to continue to evolve to help consumers, not to give them the feeling of being stranded or obsolete," says Sony Senior Vice President Tim Baxter.

-------------------------
Moreover, access to HD fare depends on where people live and how they get signals in the first place, be it cable, satellite or over-the-air broadcasts. For example, HDNet is not available on Cablevision, Cox and Comcast systems.

Viewers may have to hook up an antenna on the roof or in the attic to supplement satellite or cable coverage, especially if they hope to receive local channels in HD.

Some broadcasters have simply not gotten with the program; HD requires the most bandwidth. In-Stat/MDR analyst Mike Paxton notes that cable operators can devote 6 megahertz to one HD channel. But they can carry up to 10 standard-definition channels on one 6-MHz channel.

-----------------------------
Hurdles will be solved over time, which is why industry cheerleader Shapiro, for one, remains bullish. "I'm so proud of HDTV," he says, "that my tombstone will be in 16-by-9."
------------------------------

The Adelphia HD will be available for me in a few days; my community in Lake Worth was last in line. Does anyone have it? Do they have a better audio synch record then OTA? It is coming from the source so it won't matter. I was thinking of trying them out since I can cancel if I don't like. I know they are only starting with a few channels, but it's a start. I have been living with free analog cable for a few years and using my HD receiver for locals. I also wanted to try out their DVR. Will they have a HD/DVR any time soon.

Thanks for any info.

It's great to have this board so I know I am not the only one who constantly sees how things are constantly not quite right. It's funny that the audio synch issue is still around and it changes from day to day depending on the network, but I pushed channel 42 and was remapped to 69-1 yesterday and whatever new spanish speaking channel it was looked great with no problems? I wish I spoke spanish. Wouldn't it be nice if all stations would work together.

Does anyone have any idea when WXEL-DT (27-1) will be coming online?

WFLX DT are they down or is it just me?