I just spoke to D* customer service and they said they were aware of the HD local problem in the Portland area and "their technical people are working hard to fix the problem." Hopefully they work quickly b/c my wife is starting to get antsy about the skipping in her favorite shows.

I've been seeing the same thing. Thought that I had a branch or something getting in front of the locals sat. Guess it is a D* problem after all. Channels are fine OTA, by the way the problem with the Colts game was CBS as it was pixilating badley on OTA as well. I noticed a poorer than usual picture quality with all the CBS games today even on OTA.

Bob,

Nice to hear from you! You've been away from the thread for about four months!

Dana

Sunspots!

Bob,

Nice to hear from you! You've been away from the thread for about four months!

Dana


Thanks Dana, guess everything has been good on the TV front, nothing to complain about :) I also moved out of the Home Theater department at Best Buy so I am not as up on the latest news as I used to be.

Sunspots!

You may have it!

Interesting enough, Comcast/SusCom cable posted a notice about this phenomenon affecting sat dishes - their own - and I posted the link about this time in 2006. It's still there at http://notices.suscom-maine.net/sun_2006.htm. The notice cites a 10 minute period but the pixelation on the Pats game went on all afternoon.

Sooo, maybe yes, maybe no about sunspots being to blame. But a good guess in any event!

Dana

Actually the loss of signal or low signal is called "Solar Outage". It happens in the spring and the fall, when the satellite passes between the satellite receive dish and the sun. The signal from the sun washes out the satellite signal. It happens ever spring and every fall. Yesterday and Today (20 & 21) were the peak days for the fall Solar Outage. Here is a good explanation of how it effects satellite signals.
http://www.geo-orbit.org/sizepgs/Noise.html#anchor4293023676

Question for those who have D* on signal strength.

I tested the signal strength and with the upper left + box (which has all the transponders) get in the high 90s. However in all the other boxes ( -.- and low left +) the readings are all below 85 with most in the 70s or even 60s. Is this normal?

I also occasionally have "pixel snow" in black areas on non-local channels. Often I can get rid of it by shifting to another channel and then back again. The installed said that if he moved the dish either way from where he put it, I would lose either local or the main signals, so it seems he compromised or the dish is not properly aligned.

I will call them today, but wonder what is normal for you. (Actually have more problems than that. I signed up for the Sunday ticket and did not get it. Tried three times to get through to them and gave up. About half of the programs that are in the "Programs I get" list I cannot get.)

Question for those who have D* on signal strength.

I tested the signal strength and with the upper left + box (which has all the transponders) get in the high 90s. However in all the other boxes ( -.- and low left +) the readings are all below 85 with most in the 70s or even 60s. Is this normal?

I also occasionally have "pixel snow" in black areas on non-local channels. Often I can get rid of it by shifting to another channel and then back again. The installed said that if he moved the dish either way from where he put it, I would lose either local or the main signals, so it seems he compromised or the dish is not properly aligned.

I will call them today, but wonder what is normal for you. (Actually have more problems than that. I signed up for the Sunday ticket and did not get it. Tried three times to get through to them and gave up. About half of the programs that are in the "Programs I get" list I cannot get.)

Here are the reading I get from my strength meter.

Sat Low High
101 91 100
110 95 96
119 96 100
99(c) 95 98
99(s) 85 98 *
103(s) 64 100 *
103(c) 88 96

* These satellites are spot beam satellites and you may see low signals readings, from spot beams for other local markets other than your own, near your area. I see readings in the 30's on transponders 21, 23 & 24 of 103(s). That could be a weak signal I am picking up from the Boston market, also my 64 transponder may be other one, with the Portland/Auburn market channels getting 100s. tried to find a local transponder list, to say for sure, but couldn't locate one.

Here are the reading I get from my strength meter.

Sat Low High
101 91 100
110 95 96
119 96 100
99(c) 95 98
99(s) 85 98 *
103(s) 64 100 *
103(c) 88 96

* These satellites are spot beam satellites and you may see low signals readings, from spot beams for other local markets other than your own, near your area. I see readings in the 30's on transponders 21, 23 & 24 of 103(s). That could be a weak signal I am picking up from the Boston market, also my 64 transponder may be other one, with the Portland/Auburn market channels getting 100s. tried to find a local transponder list, to say for sure, but couldn't locate one.

I'm getting the following:

Sat...low....high
101....90....100
110....94.....98
119....94.....98
99(a)..87.....96
99(b)...0....100
103(a).0.....100
103(b)89......94

I should know more than I do about which sats are more important. Some are legacy birds that will be taken out of service soon. These sat numbers are read from an H21-200 HD receiver. I believe D* HD DVR receivers get slightly different sat numbers.

beekeeper, I recommend you call the automated number and say "Cancel service" as often as you are prompted for the reason you are calling. That will get you to Customer Rentention where the most experienced and competent reps work. They will not know why you are calling until you tell them. The "Cancel Service" is just a direct way to get into their phone queue. Tell them you did not get the package you ordered and they will make it right.

You might also tell them about your signal issues. I have read that anything in the 70s or above is considered "satisfactory."

Dana

Thanks all. I did call and my son said just to punch 0 to get a real person, which I did. The result was a rep will be out Friday next (which is fine since the problem is not a lack of service) and the rep gave me the upgraded Sunday ticket so I get all the HD games.

I am still waiting for CC to call on my email problem, and that was weeks ago.

In all, my experience with D* has been good. They are responsive, friendly, competent and actually listen to me and understand what I want and what my problems are. The one thing i miss are local weather on the weather channel and the sub weather channels on 6 and 8. Also would like it if I could use the two tuners for PIP. I am thinking of an antenna for the locals (rabbit ears do not work so it would be in the attic). Way back when I had a roof mount and got Bangor (5) and Boston when the weather allowed.

The number of channels in HD is nirvana compared to CC (my wife is in channel overload).

I did run a side by side test of D* HD and CC HD and there was no difference except D8 is about three seconds after CC. I did note that the pixillation on 13 during the pats and colts games was slightly worse on D* than CC, but it was bad on both.

The tech did say that numbers in the 60s were not unusual, but they are going to check it anyway since I get the "snow" (in black areas) on both local and remote channels. I also found out that each of those +, - boxes are a group of signals, not just one, since if you hit enter on each it cycles through about four satellites(?)/inputs. Lots still to learn about what I am looking at.

In all, my experience with D* has been good. They are responsive, friendly, competent and actually listen to me and understand what I want and what my problems are. The one thing i miss are local weather on the weather channel and the sub weather channels on 6 and 8. Also would like it if I could use the two tuners for PIP. I am thinking of an antenna for the locals (rabbit ears do not work so it would be in the attic). Way back when I had a roof mount and got Bangor (5) and Boston when the weather allowed.

Remember that when you had your previous antenna, your signal was analog, and after next February everything will be digital. So with different signals and transmitters, being used by the local stations, signal levels could be different than before. The different could be better or worse.


I did run a side by side test of D* HD and CC HD and there was no difference except D8 is about three seconds after CC. I did note that the pixillation on 13 during the pats and colts games was slightly worse on D* than CC, but it was bad on both.
The difference in time is the time it takes for the signal to go up to the satellites and back to earth, that are orbiting 22,300 miles up, in the Clark Belt. Home satellite signals have to go back and forth between satellites more than cable signals do, making a longer delay.

Those solar outages possibly could have occurred twice or up to 4 times in the case of DirecTV. The network sometimes send their raw signal from the game site (Patriots stadium) to their studio in New York, via satellite, this is referred to as a back haul feed. Sometimes this is done via cable though. Then they edit and finalize it in the New York studio and send it up to their East Coast satellite, for distribution to all the local network stations due to receive that game. The local station then receives the signal and sends it out via OTA, or cable to local cable companies or to Satellite companies, via cable or satellite. Then the satellite companies up link it to their satellites on the transponders that you receive them on. So it is possible that it could be sent from earth to satellite 2 times for cable and 3 or 4 times for satellite TV. Each time the signal is sent to a satellite during the Solar outage times, March & October, there stands a chance that the satellite will get between the receiving dish and the sun causing the solar outage. So there could have been up to 4 outages of you were watching the signal on Satellite TV.


The tech did say that numbers in the 60s were not unusual, but they are going to check it anyway since I get the "snow" (in black areas) on both local and remote channels. I also found out that each of those +, - boxes are a group of signals, not just one, since if you hit enter on each it cycles through about four satellites(?)/inputs. Lots still to learn about what I am looking at.
The only satellites you should see low signals on are 99(s) and 103(s) and those should be local spot beam signals of surrounding local markets but not yours. If your dish is aimed correctly, all your other satellites should be around the same as the ones Dana and I listed above. Unless that is, your signal is blocked by a tree or something in the line of site between your dish and the satellite.

Actually the loss of signal or low signal is called "Solar Outage". It happens in the spring and the fall, when the satellite passes between the satellite receive dish and the sun. The signal from the sun washes out the satellite signal. It happens ever spring and every fall. Yesterday and Today (20 & 21) were the peak days for the fall Solar Outage. Here is a good explanation of how it effects satellite signals.
http://www.geo-orbit.org/sizepgs/Noise.html#anchor4293023676

Solar Outage and sunspots are 2 different things. Sunspots have been tracked and recorded for hundreds of years. They are an important part of the sun's control of earth's climate. Temperatures on earth rise and fall with the presence and absence of sunspots as well as volcanic activity on earth. There were no sunspots at all in August, but there is a possibility that some finally occurred here in September.

Perhaps, our tv station engineer friends on this thread can tell us what has been causing the problem for both satellite and cable viewers. I don't know what the case has been for people using antennas.

Another D* question.

My receiver is the HR22. I tried to get an svidio signal from it to my DVDR and nada, but get the rca video just fine. Anyone use svideo out from their receiver to another component and what is your hook-up?

WGME-DT and WPXT-DT migrated from 94 QAM to 84 QAM this morning.

WPXT-DT was previously on 94-1 and WGME-DT on 94-2.
WPXT-DT is 84-1 and WGME-DT on 84-2.
WPME-DT moves from 93-1 to 83-1.

The PSIP and virtual channel information in the QAM stream is now incomplete. The one Sony, and multiple Panasonic sets, can't view WPXT-DT and store the new QAM assignments in the channel memory. WPME-DT is viewable but won't store in the channel memory either.

The Samsung set is more robust with clear QAM and ignores the missing QAM information and stores the channels in there new locations.

I've been in contact with TWC in Portland the past two weeks to resolve the clear QAM issues. As of today, I'm pleased to say the problem appears to be solved. If you still can't tune the stations properly at the new locations above I suggest a quick rescan. My Panasonic and SONY sets properly mapped and stored the new channel locations only after a rescan.

Another D* question.

My receiver is the HR22. I tried to get an svidio signal from it to my DVDR and nada, but get the rca video just fine. Anyone use svideo out from their receiver to another component and what is your hook-up?


Well, I got it to send the signal to my DVDR but every station, even the locals give me a "cannot record" even though the signal is SD. I was able to record the CC hd channels.

The offer is here http://www.aaanne.com/discounts/partner_detail.aspx?pid=384 and you have to call the special number listed to get the discount. I got it last year - or something similar. It expires at the end of October 2008.

:cool:

Dana

Note: While this may be a national AAA offer, I found it on the Maine AAA web site so posted the info here.

Well, I got it to send the signal to my DVDR but every station, even the locals give me a "cannot record" even though the signal is SD. I was able to record the CC hd channels.

Eureka! All it took was a plug pull on the Direct tuner to fully reset it. Also pulled the plug on the DVDR but had done that before and it still would not record. Also tried reset button on the directv receiver.

I have seen that posted several times in other parts of the forum, to forget about the front reset button and pull the plug instead. The only difference for the user is to wait a bit before plugging it back in, but you get much better results if you have problems.

Very nice picture from the direct receiver to my dvdr, so can archive some shows that I want to DVD. Happy camper.

Time Warner added 2 new HD channels here in York County this morning:
Tennis HD - 563
Weather HD - 564

Heads up for D* subscribers: this morning around 6am our local HD channels were moved to the new D11 satellite. Since then my brother-in-law and I have both noticed badly stuttering audio during live TV on all 4 local HD channels. We've put calls into D* and it has been "escalated". In the mean time, I've found that pausing the channel even for a second so that you're watching it slightly delayed from live fixes the audio. Playback of recordings seems to also be fine. I'm not sure if this also affects people with non-DVR HD receivers. It would be unfortunate, since you can't pause those. :( If you're having the same issues, I would suggest calling and letting D* know. The more calls they get the more likely they are to get it fixed.

A thread with more info on the satellite move is here: http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=140821

I seeing the same issue. It's driving me nuts!

Time Warner added 2 new HD channels here in York County this morning:
Tennis HD - 563
Weather HD - 564

I just noticed those 2 new channels tonight.

I'm waiting for Spike HD, and Speed HD.

Anyone have a contact for Time Warner's HD person, or someone who could maybe get some channels on the way?

Steve

I just noticed those 2 new channels tonight.

I'm waiting for Spike HD, and Speed HD.

Anyone have a contact for Time Warner's HD person, or someone who could maybe get some channels on the way?

Steve

Not to mention USA HD and Sci-Fi HD. But at least we can watch endless hours of yuppies hitting a little green ball back and forth over a net in High Def. What next, the jogging channel HD?

My Hr22 would not respond to anything so pulled the plug and it is now working. Called direct and they have problems with the hr 20,21 and 22.

Same here. Known issue apparently - http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=141604

Same here in Windham, 2 HR-20 needed to be hard reset twice today.... we'll see what 2morro brings

It was something that was transmitted in the signal that caused a system wide lock up and reboots.

Here is the official response from DirecTV:

Quote:
There was a broadcast anomaly that was causing this problem and a fix was put in place at about 2:35 PM ET. We are sending out a re-set this afternoon to boxes starting on the East Coast that should resolve the issue. Let us know if customers on the East Coast experience problems after the reset.
Any boxes that were manually reset after 2:35 PM ET should already be working normally.

Hello All:

Longtime lurker, rare poster here looking for answers for a few basic local HD questions. Your help is greatly appreciated and my apologies if some of this info is readily available, I did search and scan the thread first:

1. What model HD DVR is TWC currently using in Cumberland County? I see that they list the Explorer 3100, 3250, 8000, 8300, and 8300HDC on the website but with no indication of what they are currently giving to new customers. Do I have a choice and if so which is preferable given your experience?

2. I know this has been discussed here and on other forums, but I live in Portland and am hoping to grab OTA stations with a cheap indoor antenna. Has anyone in this area had any luck with a particular brand?

Thanks, your help is much appreciated.

Hello All:

Longtime lurker, rare poster here looking for answers for a few basic local HD questions. Your help is greatly appreciated and my apologies if some of this info is readily available, I did search and scan the thread first:

1. What model HD DVR is TWC currently using in Cumberland County? I see that they list the Explorer 3100, 3250, 8000, 8300, and 8300HDC on the website but with no indication of what they are currently giving to new customers. Do I have a choice and if so which is preferable given your experience?

2. I know this has been discussed here and on other forums, but I live in Portland and am hoping to grab OTA stations with a cheap indoor antenna. Has anyone in this area had any luck with a particular brand?

Thanks, your help is much appreciated.

I just helped my neighbors in South Portland set up their new HDTV, and the HD DVR they got from TWC was the 8300HDC. I would say the one that is preferrable in my experience is: anything other than the abysmal scientific atlanta DVRs that TWC uses. It's been about 4 years since I switched to D* and there don't appear to have been any improvements in the TWC scientific atlanta DVR interface in that time.

For OTA reception, I've had good luck with a small Terk HDTVa antenna. I used to have it on the 2nd story with pretty good results. Now it's in my attic and signal strengths are between 85-90 for the local stations. I do have trouble getting PBS-HD reliably.

BTW, here are some of the "greatest hits" that I can remember from using an 8300HD :D:
-Searching by name? You'd better know what day of the week the show is on.
-Want to record something in 10 days? Wait another 3 to schedule it because the guide is only 7 days.
-Want to search by keyword/actor/genre/show type? Too bad, not supported.
-Watching a recording of a sporting event that is still in progress? Hopefully you don't mind getting kicked to live TV when the recording ends and seeing the final score.
-Got halfway through a movie last night but watched your recording of the news this morning? Have fun fast-forwarding through the first half of the movie, because the DVR forgot where you were in it.

Ugh, that is not good news. I remember reading here some previous posts complaining about the 8300 and I was hoping my year or so of being away might mean that in the meantime TW had decided to go with a more reliable/feature-rich STB. I definately am jealous when I visit my dad who has D*. Thanks for the tip on the Terk and also thanks for the quick reply.

I have the 8300HD right now, what is the difference with the 8300HDC?

Steve

8300HDC is the next-gen Cablecard version. Feature set is identical, but it tends to be more demanding and balky -- performance can suffer if it doesn't like the quality of data coming down the cable.

Hello All:

Longtime lurker, rare poster here looking for answers for a few basic local HD questions. Your help is greatly appreciated and my apologies if some of this info is readily available, I did search and scan the thread first:

1. What model HD DVR is TWC currently using in Cumberland County? I see that they list the Explorer 3100, 3250, 8000, 8300, and 8300HDC on the website but with no indication of what they are currently giving to new customers. Do I have a choice and if so which is preferable given your experience?

2. I know this has been discussed here and on other forums, but I live in Portland and am hoping to grab OTA stations with a cheap indoor antenna. Has anyone in this area had any luck with a particular brand?

Thanks, your help is much appreciated.

Truthfully, if you want to avoid/limit drop outs on the free digital signals use a small outdoor antenna. I've found the PR4400 works well. Although, it's listed as a UHF antenna it does well with VHF high signals as well. I have my PR4400 attached to a small section of 1 1/2inch PVC pipe. The Channel Master CM2016 was recently tested at www.hdtvexpert.com and was given a thumbs up. www.tvfool.com is an excellent site for determining what the reception potential is at your present location. It also provides a list of channels before and after the analog shutoff in February. Right now all the local stations broadcast their digital signals on UHF. After the shutdown, WMTW-DT moves from UHF 46 to VHF 8, WCBB-DT from UHF 17 to VHF 10. WPME-DT will move from UHF 28 to UHF 35. NH PBS plans to move the Littleton WLED-DT signal to the summit of Mount Washington on UHF 48 with a booming signal into Maine and the Portland area. So, Maine PBS really needs to get on the ball and beef up their digital signal in Portland. I've also tried an Antennasdirect DB-2. It works reasonably well indoors. The generic equivalent is an Eagle Aspen DTV2BUHF, same antenna for a lot less money. However, this antenna doesn't perform as well on VHF high. Bottom line for reliable DT reception is location, location, location. Your results will vary. www.hdtvprimer.com has an excellent overview of antenna basics and antenna performance.

I just helped my neighbors in South Portland set up their new HDTV, and the HD DVR they got from TWC was the 8300HDC. I would say the one that is preferrable in my experience is: anything other than the abysmal scientific atlanta DVRs that TWC uses. It's been about 4 years since I switched to D* and there don't appear to have been any improvements in the TWC scientific atlanta DVR interface in that time.

For OTA reception, I've had good luck with a small Terk HDTVa antenna. I used to have it on the 2nd story with pretty good results. Now it's in my attic and signal strengths are between 85-90 for the local stations. I do have trouble getting PBS-HD reliably.

BTW, here are some of the "greatest hits" that I can remember from using an 8300HD :D:
-Searching by name? You'd better know what day of the week the show is on.
-Want to record something in 10 days? Wait another 3 to schedule it because the guide is only 7 days.
-Want to search by keyword/actor/genre/show type? Too bad, not supported.
-Watching a recording of a sporting event that is still in progress? Hopefully you don't mind getting kicked to live TV when the recording ends and seeing the final score.
-Got halfway through a movie last night but watched your recording of the news this morning? Have fun fast-forwarding through the first half of the movie, because the DVR forgot where you were in it.

I've got one more to add to the list:
-I hope you don't mind missing the beginning or end of your TV shows that you record daily or weekly. If you set it to start recording early or end late it will only remember it once. So you have to remember to change the times for EVERY airing. I haven't seen the player introductions on Jeopardy! in almost a year now because WMTW starts it at 7:29PM.

On the plus side I think the "kick out to live" bug got fixed. It has never happened to me.

FWIW to those of you that are D* customers with an HD DVR - go to www.directv.com and fill out the Contact Us form and complain about the multiple resets this week and the HD local sound cutout issues last week.

I got a $20 bill credit for 6 months as compensation.

FWIW to those of you that are D* customers with an HD DVR - go to www.directv.com and fill out the Contact Us form and complain about the multiple resets this week and the HD local sound cutout issues last week.

I got a $20 bill credit for 6 months as compensation.

Thanks, I just filled it out. I made sure to mention that I just referred 2 people and now I feel like the bad guy because there have been 2 fairly major issues within 2 weeks of their installs.

The action of D* reps to correct problems has been exceptional. Same with the GWI technicians in my shift from CC internet.

When I closed my account with CC, I had to wait a bit so could hear the cost quotes to new subscribers and D* really is a good deal. Add customer service and there is no comparison. A few weeks back, before I switched, I called CC on an email problem and am still waiting for the tech to "get right back to me". That sealed it for me.

The action of D* reps to correct problems has been exceptional. Same with the GWI technicians in my shift from CC internet.

When I closed my account with CC, I had to wait a bit so could hear the cost quotes to new subscribers and D* really is a good deal. Add customer service and there is no comparison. A few weeks back, before I switched, I called CC on an email problem and am still waiting for the tech to "get right back to me". That sealed it for me.

That's been my experience, too, regarding customer service. D* = very good. CC = bad. GWI = excellent. (But see below.) FairPoint is trying hard but is hampered by being in the middle of the crossover from Verizon. Nonetheless, I talked with several FairPoint reps in Maine who were very helpful in my changeover to them for DSL. And the technician on the pole/in the house was exceptionally helpful. All is now working well.

I left GWI only because of 7 meg DSL being available from Fairpoint/Verizon here that GWI couldn't match. FairPoint/Verizon does now have a bundled "Triple Play" plan that includes D* for TV, DSL for internet and FairPoint Freedom telephone that does seem to be a good deal involving discounts from the regular prices. (Call 1.877.3PLAY.VALUE or visit www.FairPoint.com if interested.)

No, I do not get a commission. But I accept tips. (Such as "Don't repeat this message.") ;)

Dana

* My final bill with GWI was 20¢. They sent me a paper invoice by first class mail that cost them more than the invoice amount. Of course I sent them back a check by first class mail. The USPS made out just fine. GWI's billing dep't needs a de minimis policy.

Anyone else with TWC of Southern Maine notice that since 528 came on the air with preseason C's, that the video in the close shots pixelates (spelling?) and it's almost blurry sometimes? I thought it might be something in my TV, but channel 28 does the same thing. The blacks break up...it's crap! All the other HD channels are fine... :eek:

Anyone else with TWC of Southern Maine notice that since 528 came on the air with preseason C's, that the video in the close shots pixelates (spelling?) and it's almost blurry sometimes? I thought it might be something in my TV, but channel 28 does the same thing. The blacks break up...it's crap! All the other HD channels are fine... :eek:

Cravenfan, I was noticing the same thing last night, 528 looked "soft" and blurry. I have also noticed that the sound on HD NESN is very low and muted, particularly in comparison to the other HD channels. It makes it a pain to have to change the volume all the time!

I have another question for everyone oout there in TWC land. I just got HD service and am enjoying the quality of the HD channels so far but I have a minor gripe and am wondering if it is my TV or the service. I sometimes see thin strips of white "static" over and under some of the local HD signals. I also see a white line running all the way along the left hand side of the picture on 552 (PLD-HD). Anyone else seeing either of these things?

Cravenfan, I was noticing the same thing last night, 528 looked "soft" and blurry. I have also noticed that the sound on HD NESN is very low and muted, particularly in comparison to the other HD channels. It makes it a pain to have to change the volume all the time!

I have another question for everyone oout there in TWC land. I just got HD service and am enjoying the quality of the HD channels so far but I have a minor gripe and am wondering if it is my TV or the service. I sometimes see thin strips of white "static" over and under some of the local HD signals. I also see a white line running all the way along the left hand side of the picture on 552 (PLD-HD). Anyone else seeing either of these things?

It's not limited to cable. This is quite common if you have your TV set to pixel map 1:1 the incoming HD signal (no overscan). What you're seeing is the exact video transmission literally with rough edges and all. CRT (tube) TVs used to be set for about 5% overscan to mask the rough edges (with a loss of part of the picture). Today's flat panel TVs often have an option of pixel mapping or overscan, usually using different terminology.

It's your TV so set it to whatever pleases you. (I prefer to see every pixel right to the bleeding edge myself.) ;)

Dana

I've been having some problems since around the Olympics with my HD locals. It started with just lots of audio stutter, especially on channel 6. It graduated to also having pixelation and some complete video blackouts for a few seconds for up to as many as four times an hour. During the Patriots game yesterday was about the worst I've had. Twice during each of the first and second quarters and once during the fourth (I had to miss the third quarter, so don't know about that), I would get a complete video blackout for about 2-3 full seconds, followed by audio stutter and then loss of audio for about 1-2 seconds. Then both video and audio would return. The problem would last, in total, generally for an entire play.

This problem has affected both my receivers. My transponder numbers are great, and I have nothing that could block my dish temporarily either, so that doesn't seem to be it. I had the same problems everybody else had with the issues last week, but this is separate from that. I'm in Woolwich. Anybody else in the area have any similar problems?

I've been having some problems since around the Olympics with my HD locals. It started with just lots of audio stutter, especially on channel 6. It graduated to also having pixelation and some complete video blackouts for a few seconds for up to as many as four times an hour. During the Patriots game yesterday was about the worst I've had. Twice during each of the first and second quarters and once during the fourth (I had to miss the third quarter, so don't know about that), I would get a complete video blackout for about 2-3 full seconds, followed by audio stutter and then loss of audio for about 1-2 seconds. Then both video and audio would return. The problem would last, in total, generally for an entire play.

This problem has affected both my receivers. My transponder numbers are great, and I have nothing that could block my dish temporarily either, so that doesn't seem to be it. I had the same problems everybody else had with the issues last week, but this is separate from that. I'm in Woolwich. Anybody else in the area have any similar problems?

Funny that you mention it because my nearby neighbor stopped me today and asked if I was having similar issues. But, he's on Comcast cable. I watched some of the Pats game last night and noticed what you saw at least once. But, if it's on cable, too, it sounds like it is a Portland station/network issue.

Dana

Thanks, Dana, that's interesting to hear. I'll do some more checking.

Hmm, I had about 6-8 of the blackouts during the latest episode of Life. I did a quick scan of my backup OTA recording upstairs and didn't see any blackouts. I didn't watch the whole thing at 1x speed, so it's possible I went so fast that they were there and I just didn't see them, but I'm pretty sure there weren't any in the OTA recording.

Hmm, I had about 6-8 of the blackouts during the latest episode of Life. I did a quick scan of my backup OTA recording upstairs and didn't see any blackouts. I didn't watch the whole thing at 1x speed, so it's possible I went so fast that they were there and I just didn't see them, but I'm pretty sure there weren't any in the OTA recording.

You know, it would great if you would take a real time look at that recording because it would answer a major question. (broadcast station versus cable) I am having the same issue and I am on the TWC Augusta system. ....... My guess is that it is a broadcast or network issue rather than cable because the Comcast viewer saw the problem as well as the TWC viewers on different local systems.

You know, it would great if you would take a real time look at that recording because it would answer a major question. (broadcast station versus cable) I am having the same issue and I am on the TWC Augusta system. ....... My guess is that it is a broadcast or network issue rather than cable because the Comcast viewer saw the problem as well as the TWC viewers on different local systems.

I believe WCSH has fiber from their studio to TWC in South Portland. TWC is not using the over the air DT signal from WCSH. It's common for cable to have fiber from the station to the cable headend for the locals. Dish and Direct TV I'm not sure about. Maybe one of the local TV engineers can shed some light on this? I'm a strong advocate for having an antenna as at least a backup for local DT signals. TWC and LIN broadcasting are locked in a national battle over carriage fees. In Buffalo, I installed a small outdoor antenna for family several years ago. TWC in Buffalo was recently forced to pull the local LIN stations, CBS and CW, from the lineup. My family there simply toggles between cable and over the air to watch CBS and CW. Most other cable subs in Buffalo are out of luck for CBS and CW. They tossed the old rabbit ears and rooftop antennas long ago in favor of the cable coax. It pays to have a backup.

WHOA!
First time tonight I've seem MPBN weather, 10 second blip of upcoming weather. Strange but nice to see. I think?

All of the Portland stations are fibered to TWC. Dish and Directv take over the air signals from each station for their local distribution. Its very possible to have a problem on cable and not over the air or visa versa. In our case the HD signal splits paths at our studio, one feed to TWC the other is sent via Digital microwave to our transmitter site in Raymond. There it is decoded and sent to our DT transmitter to air. So there you have it, either path could develop a problem. If both paths are having the same issue the problem is either at our studio or in our case CBS New York. I hope this is helpful.

All of the Portland stations are fibered to TWC. Dish and Directv take over the air signals from each station for their local distribution. Its very possible to have a problem on cable and not over the air or visa versa. In our case the HD signal splits paths at our studio, one feed to TWC the other is sent via Digital microwave to our transmitter site in Raymond. There it is decoded and sent to our DT transmitter to air. So there you have it, either path could develop a problem. If both paths are having the same issue the problem is either at our studio or in our case CBS New York. I hope this is helpful.

Craig,

As always, very helpful.

Dana

All of the Portland stations are fibered to TWC. Dish and Directv take over the air signals from each station for their local distribution.
I think that FOX station in Portland feeds DirecTV their signal via fiber also. I think I read that someplace.

I think that FOX station in Portland feeds DirecTV their signal via fiber also. I think I read that someplace.

Maybe you read it here. It has to be a closed circuit feed since WPFO doesn't presently broadcast FOX HD OTA. (The prior station owners never got a license to do so.)

Dana

Maybe these studders and sputters are due to the solar outages that Loudo38 and Stan54 have mentioned on earlier pages?

Dana

Maybe these studders and sputters are due to the solar outages that Loudo38 and Stan54 have mentioned on earlier pages?

Dana

Let's hope Ol' Sol never has any "outages."

Another early DTV switch..... WPME-DT's digital OTA signal has now reverted back to broadcasting on channel 35. Up until a few days ago it was still transmitting digitally OTA on channel 28. This should be no surprise, since WPME is no longer using channel 35 for it's analog signal. That was switched off last month.

John

Another early DTV switch..... WPME-DT's digital OTA signal has now reverted back to broadcasting on channel 35. Up until a few days ago it was still transmitting digitally OTA on channel 28. This should be no surprise, since WPME is no longer using channel 35 for it's analog signal. That was switched off last month.

John

They're now using the top antenna instead of the lower side mounted antenna. However, the effective radiated power is a bit lower now. The FCC service contour is slightly smaller for this arrangement. Oddly enough, at 12 miles south of the tower I actually have a slightly stronger signal now on ATSC 35 versus ATSC on 28. The slightly higher transmitting antenna is probably the reason. I'm finding with ATSC (over the air reception) that sometimes a stronger signal is not necessarily a more reliable signal because of multipath issues. WCSH-DT is the least reliable at my location and most prone to drop outs. Yet, WCSH-DT has a high ERP signal. I note that TWC and WCSH/WLBZ have entered into negotiations over signal carriage on TWC. If they fail to reach an agreement TWC will have to pull the signal. Still no CBS or CW in Western New York state on TWC as negotiations between the broadcast station owner (LIN) and TWC appear to be at a standstill. I hope this battle between cable/satellite and the local broadcasters over compensation doesn't become the norm.

An update on the WCSH dropouts:

I've noticed them a lot lest frequently as of late. However, during Friday's episode of "Life" there was one within the first minute of the show. I checked by OTA backup recording, and there was freeze in the video at the same exact spot. It froze rather than dropping to a black screen, hence the reason my fast-forward through the other episode didn't show anything unusual.

So I think the problem is WCSH's with a slighlty different manifestation of the issue after D* transcodes to MPEG4.

I've been getting those dropouts on WCSH, Fox 23, and WMTW ever since I upgraded to HD a month ago on Time Warner. Fox gets especially annoying...during prime time shows a few seconds of audio will drop out every few minutes. It usually happens at a turning point in the plot, thus rendering the story un-followable.

I've been getting those dropouts on WCSH, Fox 23, and WMTW ever since I upgraded to HD a month ago on Time Warner. Fox gets especially annoying...during prime time shows a few seconds of audio will drop out every few minutes. It usually happens at a turning point in the plot, thus rendering the story un-followable.

I watched the Pats game yesterday on FOX23 HD via D* and don't remember seeing any problems.

Dana

An update on the WCSH dropouts:

I've noticed them a lot lest frequently as of late. However, during Friday's episode of "Life" there was one within the first minute of the show. I checked by OTA backup recording, and there was freeze in the video at the same exact spot. It froze rather than dropping to a black screen, hence the reason my fast-forward through the other episode didn't show anything unusual.

So I think the problem is WCSH's with a slighlty different manifestation of the issue after D* transcodes to MPEG4.

I think this is important information in trying to determine the source of the problem. This happened on channel 6 with me, too. A few days ago, I noticed it on FOX (just a little bit).

In the past, I have noted no problems when others complained about something. Lately, I have seen some of what we are discussing here. If the problem occurs over the air, however, the finger has to point away from our usual favorite target, the cable company and even the satellite company. It might very well be related to the signal that our sources have to work with.

It would be really nice if you could check again when you observe another similar problem. A verification would seal where the problem is NOT.

I'm in York County with TWC basic cable, just got a new Panny plasma (TH-42PZ80) yesterday. Trying to get some QAM channels in, the only ones I was able to find were 6.1 and 81.1-81.5. Anyone else seen any beyond these? I think I once saw a site that listed the QAM channels for a particular zip code, but I'm having trouble finding it again...

For some reason I had Food Network HD on 105.2 for a while, but later last night it was no longer there.

Can't answer which you should have, but a renegade channel like the food network, will appear from time to time as the cable company either tries them out or stashes them in different places before moving them to their "scrambled" home. When I was with Comcast, it was an adventure to re-scan weekly and find out what new stuff was there.

Now I am on D*. Much happier camper.

I've only used the qam tuner on my panny once but tried it recently and noticed all the on demand channels were scrambled. Is this new? You use to be able to see what everyone was watching and now you can't. Also all the music channels are scrambled as well.


btw this is the Bangor area, didn't know if Portland was this was too.

I'm in York County with TWC basic cable, just got a new Panny plasma (TH-42PZ80) yesterday. Trying to get some QAM channels in, the only ones I was able to find were 6.1 and 81.1-81.5. Anyone else seen any beyond these? I think I once saw a site that listed the QAM channels for a particular zip code, but I'm having trouble finding it again...

For some reason I had Food Network HD on 105.2 for a while, but later last night it was no longer there.

What's on 81-1 to 81-5 down there in York county?

Not at home currently, but I believe 81-1 was Create, which I had never heard of, 81-2 and 81-3 were two different MPBN stations, and 81-4/81-5 I believe were WMTW and WPFO.

I was hoping for WGME in HD for Pats games but I didn't see that one anywhere, unfortunately. 6-1 was WCSH-HD of course.

When I went through checking the channels I was going pretty quickly, maybe if I let it sit for a few seconds on every channel a couple others will come in.

Not at home currently, but I believe 81-1 was Create, which I had never heard of, 81-2 and 81-3 were two different MPBN stations, and 81-4/81-5 I believe were WMTW and WPFO.

I was hoping for WGME in HD for Pats games but I didn't see that one anywhere, unfortunately. 6-1 was WCSH-HD of course.

When I went through checking the channels I was going pretty quickly, maybe if I let it sit for a few seconds on every channel a couple others will come in.

Are you doing a manual or automatic search? If auto, you should search for both analog and digital.

One interesting thing is that different tuners give different results, even when advertised as HD or digital ready. I got several additional channels on my DVDR digital tuner than I got on the Vizio tuner. If the set has the ability to manually enter channels in the setup phase, that occasionally works to get the lost channels, but you have to know where they actually are stashed by the provider.

We are still in the non-standard phase of this technology.

I did an automatic search, both analog and digital when I got the TV. Since then I've just done automatic digital searches.

Really, I'm just looking for WGME and WPME. Anything else would be gravy.

Sounds like there's no way to really be sure except to add all the channels and go through them slowly in case one has a weaker signal.

EDIT: Cool, just ran another scan and I've got Weather Channel HD on 110.4 and Food Network on 106.5. Had the Celtics game in HD on 109.3 (I think) last night as well.

EDIT again: Now both of those are gone... :(

I'm still waiting for Spike HD and Speed HD on Time Warner............they sure are making me want to switch to Direct TV more and more. Dump Time Warner for cable and phone, but keep the Road Runner. Direct TV , and go with the cell phones with no landline anymore.

Steve

Not to mention USA-HD, Sci-Fi-HD and FX-HD. I'll be joining you in deserting TWC for Direct if Sci-Fi isn't added by January 17th, when the final season of Battlestar Galacticia starts.

I'm still waiting for Spike HD and Speed HD on Time Warner............they sure are making me want to switch to Direct TV more and more. Dump Time Warner for cable and phone, but keep the Road Runner. Direct TV , and go with the cell phones with no landline anymore.

Steve

I thought of keeping cable internet when I dropped Comcast/SusCom Brunswick for TV. But, they insist on a subscriber signing up for the minimum TV package at something like $50 in order to get cable internet. Phooey. I found a nice bundle from Verizon for DSL high speed internet, D* TV and Verizon landline phone that actually saved me money..

But, Wait! You're in Biddeford, the home of GWI! Surely, they have great phone and internet service there. And their cust svc is excellent. And you can sign up for D* for great TV in HD!

Dana

Last night while watching the Pats vs. Colts on channel 6 via D*, I noticed that the network claimed it was being broadcast in DD 5.1 but I was only receiving DD 2.0. :confused:

Of course my receiver kicked it up to DD 7.1 so I'm good. But, I wonder if it was a local problem or what.

Dana

WCSH does not have the capability to pass DD 5.1, I emailed them at the beginning of the year and was told that they plan to provide 5.1 audio when the switch to digital tv is complete.

WCSH does not have the capability to pass DD 5.1, I emailed them at the beginning of the year and was told that they plan to provide 5.1 audio when the switch to digital tv is complete.

Good to know. Thanks.

Dana

WCSH does not have the capability to pass DD 5.1, I emailed them at the beginning of the year and was told that they plan to provide 5.1 audio when the switch to digital tv is complete.

FWIW, I've emailed them annually about it for the past 3 years and always get a response of "maybe next year". Hopefully if/when they do make the step up to DD 5.1 they also replace their MPEG encoder that seems to be constantly having issues. I notice fairly frequent flickering, pauses, green flashes, etc on WCSH OTA and via D*.

FWIW, I've emailed them annually about it for the past 3 years and always get a response of "maybe next year". Hopefully if/when they do make the step up to DD 5.1 they also replace their MPEG encoder that seems to be constantly having issues. I notice fairly frequent flickering, pauses, green flashes, etc on WCSH OTA and via D*.

Yes, I recall that I wrote once, a year after you did. The GM said I was the first person to contact him about DD 5.1. He has a $hort memory.

Dana

Just a reminder that after today's Pats game at The Blade vs. Buffalo at 1 PM on CBS, the Pats have a short week as they entertain the Jets Thursday night also at home on the NFL Network.

One listing says Thursday night's game is 7:30 PM (pre-game?) while others say game time is 8:15 PM. I believe a Boston DMA station will be allowed to broadcast the game OTA while everywhere else, it will be on cable/satellite only.

Dana

Did anyone in the Portland area get the Maine vs RI football game either OTA or on DTV?? The paper said it would be on PXT on TimeWarner, but I don't understand why that would be different from OTA...

Good game, they won but I couldn't see it...

As mentioned previously, I am in Woolwich, watching on D*, and having audio stutter and video dropout problems on local HD stations, really mostly WCSH. Saturday Night Live last night was a nightmare. Instead of having 1-2 second dropouts 2-3 times an hour, the dropouts averaged 2 minutes, and they happened at least 11 times during the show. Now I'm watching Football Night in America and there have been two dropouts in the first 10 minutes, and they're lasting about a minute. Anybody else?

I also had dropouts- black screen- on 6 at the beginning of the game. Recorded it, so will see if there were further dropouts. All other locals were fine, so it seems to be WCSH. They seem to be the worst for sound sync and other problems.

I had the same problem on WCSH last night during the football game. It would go blank, both on the D* feed and the OTA, so it would appear to be their issue.

I've noticed most of the Portland TV stations are constantly having problems getting HDTV on the air. In addition to all the WCSH problems WPFO and WPXT is constantly forgetting to "flip the switch" and put the show on in HD on their HD feed. They really need to automate that process instead of relying on the master control operators to remember after every local break.

Thanks for your comments everybody. I have written an email to WCSH and will post the reply----assuming I get one.

I've noticed most of the Portland TV stations are constantly having problems getting HDTV on the air. In addition to all the WCSH problems WPFO and WPXT is constantly forgetting to "flip the switch" and put the show on in HD on their HD feed. They really need to automate that process instead of relying on the master control operators to remember after every local break.

Thats been driving me nuts on WPFO.

Thats been driving me nuts on WPFO.

It's especially strange on WPFO because I was under the impression that the FOX "splicer" system enabled the process to be automated. However, it requires the local station to set it up that way: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14997768#post14997768

They've been pretty bad about flipping the switch on Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles lately.

And let's not forget WMTW's drop to SD for station identification and lottery numbers (Really? Lottery numbers? People with an HDTV don't have internet access to check those?). The worst part is that you lose a few seconds of audio during the switch back to HD. Their local upscaler seems to be pretty terrible, too, as the program seems almost black & white compared to the color when HD is restored.

This afternoon I was flipping channels and was surprised to see that WGME 13.1 had Oprah on in 16:9 HD? I didn't think any of the Portland stations could broadcast syndicated shows in HD. Is this something new?

Where this former Old Orchard Beach resident now lives, CBS in Hartford (WFSB-DT) airs Oprah, Dr. Phil and Entertainment Tonight locally in HD and has done so since September.

It's especially strange on WPFO because I was under the impression that the FOX "splicer" system enabled the process to be automated. However, it requires the local station to set it up that way: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14997768#post14997768

They've been pretty bad about flipping the switch on Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles lately.

And let's not forget WMTW's drop to SD for station identification and lottery numbers (Really? Lottery numbers? People with an HDTV don't have internet access to check those?). The worst part is that you lose a few seconds of audio during the switch back to HD. Their local upscaler seems to be pretty terrible, too, as the program seems almost black & white compared to the color when HD is restored.

A few seconds out of HD doesn't bother me too much, but now I'm concerned about one thing...winter. I know that the Portland stations insist on running cancellations on the bottom of the screen even during minor snowstorms all throughout primetime. After all we all must know that the 5PM bean supper got canceled at some church in Steep Falls at 9PM, 4 hours after it would have happened. So can anyone chime in on what happens on the HD feed while the local stations are running cancellations? This will be my first winter with HDTV. Last year on the regular feed of channel 13 they would shrink the program to about half the original size and surround the screen with logos on each side and cancellations on the bottom of the screen. Channel 8 was a little better, leaving the size of the picture the same and just running narrow crawl on the bottom of the screen. Channel 6 was usually good about not running cancellations during primetime, but not always.

This afternoon I was flipping channels and was surprised to see that WGME 13.1 had Oprah on in 16:9 HD? I didn't think any of the Portland stations could broadcast syndicated shows in HD. Is this something new?

"flipping stations?"

Yeah, right. :p

"flipping stations?"

Yeah, right. :p

Yes, flipping stations! Lately I have been experimenting with different antennas in different locations because I receive all the Portland stations OTA. That afternoon I had just relocated and was checking the signal strength of all the stations.

My point in the original question was NOT that Oprah was in HD (I knew that all ready) put that I was surprised that WGME was capable of presenting a syndicated show (as opposed to a network show) in HD. The Boston stations have that capability (Oprah and Ellen are in HD 16:9 on WCVB), I didn't think any of the Portland stations could do that.

Yes, flipping stations! Lately I have been experimenting with different antennas in different locations because I receive all the Portland stations OTA. That afternoon I had just relocated and was checking the signal strength of all the stations.

My point in the original question was NOT that Oprah was in HD (I knew that all ready) put that I was surprised that WGME was capable of presenting a syndicated show (as opposed to a network show) in HD. The Boston stations have that capability (Oprah and Ellen are in HD 16:9 on WCVB), I didn't think any of the Portland stations could do that.

"Presenting a syndicated show" is not the same as originating a broadcast from the station's own facilities. The stations can broadcast (relay) in HD any signal that is received by them in HD. Channel 6 surprised me by broadcasting some of Bill Green's taped programs in HD. If they had studio HD cameras, I imagine they could originate the news from their facility in HD.

So far, I haven't seen 8 or 13 originate anything in HD.

I'm disappointed. My wife's tv just uses clear cam on TWC (Augusta area) to watch the Maine HD stations. I have noticed that TWC has switched the channels around, now, and in the process dropped the FOX channel.

WMTW HD (Ch. 8, analog) is 8-1. WGME HD (Ch. 13, analog) is 13-1. WPXT HD (Ch. 51, analog over the air and 12 on cable) is 51-1. WCSH HD (Ch. 6, analog) remains at 93-11.

For some reason, WPFO HD (FOX) was removed from its placement at 94-4 and I could not locate it even with a fairly thorough search process. Now, I know that WPFO has an issue with an over the air channel designation beginning in February, but I am wondering why it couldn't have retained its clear cam channel on TWC just as WCSH did.

Come Monday, I'll visit the Augusta office to try to find out if this is just an oversight.

Here's the response I got today from WCSH about the severe video/audio dropout issues on WCSH November 15-17:

Hi, Sorry for the delay in a response. The major reason there were problems that weekend was due to our digital transmitter. We have may a temporary fix, but still need to do more work for a more permanent repair. Hope that helps explain what happened that weekend into Monday, 11/17. Best, mike marshall, programming manager

Now, I really is confoosed!

The clear cam settings for HD (TWC Augusta area) on my wife's Samsung are changed from the old channel numbers to what I describe above.

After REMOVING the cable card from the Sony in the playroom, I found that the old clear cam channels still work on that set, including FOX which I cannot find, now, on my wife's Samsung. This is strange. Two different sets of clear cam channel numbers (except for a couple of channels).

I just picked up a Vizio 32" LCD for our bedroom, and I'm not using a cable box on it.....just hooking the cable up to the TV. I did the automatic search after that, and it came up with all kinds of HD channels. I wasn't aware that this was possible to get HD channels without a HD box.

Of course, after reading back over this post..........I see that it is possible. Very cool surprise, I wasn't expecting it at all.

Steve

I just picked up a Vizio 32" LCD for our bedroom, and I'm not using a cable box on it.....just hooking the cable up to the TV. I did the automatic search after that, and it came up with all kinds of HD channels. I wasn't aware that this was possible to get HD channels without a HD box.

Of course, after reading back over this post..........I see that it is possible. Very cool surprise, I wasn't expecting it at all.

Steve

When you get a chance, post the HD channels that you are picking up on TWC without the box. If it is like the Augusta area, you are only getting the State of Maine broadcast channels.

When you get a chance, post the HD channels that you are picking up on TWC without the box. If it is like the Augusta area, you are only getting the State of Maine broadcast channels.
Last time I did a scan on it, in the Lewiston/Auburn TWC area, I got was all of the local stations, except for FOX. That was back in the beginning of October, when I set up a TV for a family member, who has TWC.

Last time I did a scan on it, in the Lewiston/Auburn TWC area, I got was all of the local stations, except for FOX. That was back in the beginning of October, when I set up a TV for a family member, who has TWC.

I get the following in Greene (Lewiston/Auburn former Adelphia):

87-1 Pay per view Preview Channel

89-1 WGME-DT CBS
89-2 WPXT-DT CW

93-1 WCSH-DT NBC
93-2 MPBN (analog simulcast) PBS
93-3 MPBN (analog simulcast) PBS -- appears to be a tape delay of 93-2
93-4 MPBN-DT PBS (in high def when PBS is high def)

94-1 WMTW-DT (ABC)
94-2 WPFO-DT (FOX)
94-3 Create (PBS analog simulcast)
94-4 News8 Now
94-5 PBS World (analog simulcast)

100-1 NBA Preview

107-1 WVII-DT (ABC, Bangor)

This is from memory, I'll need to double check on the order of the PBS networks. We do not get WPME-DT (MyNetworkTV). I believe they get it in the Portland market.

Joe

I get the following in Greene (Lewiston/Auburn former Adelphia):

87-1 Pay per view Preview Channel

89-1 WGME-DT CBS
89-2 WPXT-DT CW

93-1 WCSH-DT NBC
93-2 MPBN (analog simulcast) PBS
93-3 MPBN (analog simulcast) PBS -- appears to be a tape delay of 93-2
93-4 MPBN-DT PBS (in high def when PBS is high def)

94-1 WMTW-DT (ABC)
94-2 WPFO-DT (FOX)
94-3 Create (PBS analog simulcast)
94-4 News8 Now
94-5 PBS World (analog simulcast)

100-1 NBA Preview

107-1 WVII-DT (ABC, Bangor)

This is from memory, I'll need to double check on the order of the PBS networks. We do not get WPME-DT (MyNetworkTV). I believe they get it in the Portland market.

Joe
I forgot to mention ABC Bangor. Glad to see they have now added FOX.

They've had FOX for at least a year (how long I've been using a clear QAM tuner). I did a rescan last night, and the NBA Season Ticket Preview channel was gone, but instead there was an NHL PPV preview down in the 70's. I just delete the garbage preview channels out of my lineup because there is never any content in them.

When I set things up a year ago, they passed through all the music channels in the clear. About 10 months ago, they scrambled them. Periodically, when they have free previews for Sports Tickets, or pay channels like Showtim, Cinemax, and HBO, you can find them in the clear. When the Olympics were on last summer, one of the NBC HD cablenetworks was "clear" because it was carrying sports coverage.

Joe

I'll take a look when I get a chance..........they are all like 83-1, and 84-1, and 85-1.....things like that.

Steve

Current QAM Line-Up as of December 4th, 2008:
(These channels seem to move around)

Most newer TVs with a built-in digital tuner should get the local channels. Don't let Time Warner extort you for the lease of a converter box. I thought they had to provide the local channels with the digital conversion law changes?

Using a Digital Tuner:
------------------------
6-1: NBC - WCSH-HD
81-1: MPBN (Create)
81-2: PBS World
81-3: ABC - WMTW-HD
81-4: FOX - WPFO
81-5: News8Now
82:12: MPBN 2
82-13: MPBN e/i
82-16 MPBN-HD
83-1: MyTv - WMPE-HD
84-1: The CW - WPXT
84-2: CBS - WGME-HD


**
Anyone know if the WCSH-6 (NBC) rebroadcast agreement with Time Warner includes their digital sub-channels? e.g. 6.2
I see 8.2 (or at least news8now) on 81-5, but no 6.2 equivalent
**


BTW... Clear QAM is not supported in Windows Media Center.
(as of today, but rumors over vista-only MCE QAM support abound)
You have to use something like WinTV or other programs to watch and/or RECORD your HD programming on your PC without a set-top box (STB)

I just set up WinTV with the ATSC/QAM/Analog Combo tuner card and it looks AMAZING. I had to drop down to 16-bit color (from 32) for my lousy graphics card to get the proper frame rates- but LCD only has so many colors anyway, right?

I also managed to use the analog tuner in the same card at the same time as ATSC/QAM input and watched two games at once. Used Media Center with analog signal, WinTV with QAM. Sound was hard to control. MC controls system volume, WinTV local volume- so MCE always wins out.

You may find, using Win-TV:
(Hauppage HVR-1600)
6-1: 2011
81-1: 7199
81-2:
81-3: 7195
81-4: 7196
81-5: 7198
82-12:2012
82-13: 2013
82-16 2016
83-1: 7192
84-1: 7194
84-2: 7193


Time Warner 'officially' considers us lucky to get the clear QAM channels we do get....

They call it 'Frequency Bleed Over'.

I got a 32" LCD for my bedroom last January. When I first got it I was able to do an auto channel search and get all the local channels in HD without having to hook up an external antenna. I went ahead and got an HD box through Comcast and haven't thought about the over the air stuff since. Well, yesterday I was thinking maybe I'd drop Comcast back to the basic cable and just get the free HD channels. Now when I try the auto program it can't find any HD channels. Any ideas on what may have changed? I can't see anything in the settings that would make sense that may have changed.

I got a 32" LCD for my bedroom last January. When I first got it I was able to do an auto channel search and get all the local channels in HD without having to hook up an external antenna. I went ahead and got an HD box through Comcast and haven't thought about the over the air stuff since. Well, yesterday I was thinking maybe I'd drop Comcast back to the basic cable and just get the free HD channels. Now when I try the auto program it can't find any HD channels. Any ideas on what may have changed? I can't see anything in the settings that would make sense that may have changed.

I realize you probably did all of this, but did you disconnect the cable box and hook up the TV directly to the coax? Also, check to see if the scan is cable and not antenna and includes scanning for digital channels.

I realize you probably did all of this, but did you disconnect the cable box and hook up the TV directly to the coax? Also, check to see if the scan is cable and not antenna and includes scanning for digital channels.

I did not disconnect the cable box and try the scan that way. I will try that. Seems like I recall being able to scan on antenna and pick up channels. I know it showed them as 8.1, 8.2 etc.

I did not disconnect the cable box and try the scan that way. I will try that. Seems like I recall being able to scan on antenna and pick up channels. I know it showed them as 8.1, 8.2 etc.

It's two different technologies. The use of an antenna is known to all. The second is the use of a QAM tuner on your TV as described here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QAM_tuner which is less well known, thanks to the cable companies who aren't about to let you know you can get something for nothing. ;)

Dana

Most TVs with Digital Tuners built-in will have several inputs...
e.g. HDMI, DVI, Component, Composite, S-Video, VGA

but also either a separate or combo analog/digital F-type coax input

So if you have a cable box, that should be connected to your TV through the HDMI, DVI, Component connections... then you can get your HD signal through the cable box and get all the channels you want- e.g. the ones over channel 100.

If you want to ALSO get the OTA (over the air) signal you will want to hook up your antenna to the F-type input. That will get you the OTA digital channels 6.1, 6.2, 8.1, etc. In this scenario you will have your cable box hooked up to the TV and the antenna hooked up to the TV. OTA will get you only local TV channels. If you have your TV hooked up to an antenna, then you'll be digitally tuning ATSC channels.

Your TV likely has a channel scan feature where it will scan through the channels and store the active ones- make sure you have it set to scan for the digital channels.

If you set up separate signals, you can then use your PIP feature of your TV- one input will be the one from the cable box and the other input will be the tuner built-into the TV.

If you don't want to use a cable box at all, then you can hook up the cable line directly into the TV using the F-Type input- then you'd be tuning in clear QAM channels. You can get as many programs as the cable company send through clear (unencrypted) QAM. You will not be able to view encrypted/scrambled QAM (like HBO) without a 'cable card'.

The cable companies basically have an antenna on their roof, which tunes in the local channels... then they compress it and retransmit over the cable lines... thus most people report a much better picture OTA than through clear QAM- because the cable company squeezes the signal so they can fit more channels down the pipe.

The connections you use will determine what channels you will tune to in order to get your programming.
e.g. channels on:
CableBox : ATSC : QAM
13 : 13.1 (38) : 84-2
6 : 6.1 (44) : 6-1
8 : 8.1 (46) : 81-3

It's two different technologies. The use of an antenna is known to all. The second is the use of a QAM tuner on your TV as described here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QAM_tuner which is less well known, thanks to the cable companies who aren't about to let you know you can get something for nothing. ;)

Dana

This sounds like what I want to be able to do. The whole story is that since Comcast jacked up my montly price by another ~$10 I'm kind of fed up. I'd like to be able to ditch the HD box I get from them and just go down to basic cable. I would however like to get the locals in HD for free. I'm just trying to figure out if I need an HD antenna or not. My next test will be to disconnect the HD box, just plub in the coax cable, and run a channel scan to see what I can get. thanks guys.

This sounds like what I want to be able to do. The whole story is that since Comcast jacked up my montly price by another ~$10 I'm kind of fed up. I'd like to be able to ditch the HD box I get from them and just go down to basic cable. I would however like to get the locals in HD for free. I'm just trying to figure out if I need an HD antenna or not. My next test will be to disconnect the HD box, just plub in the coax cable, and run a channel scan to see what I can get. thanks guys.

You can add a splitter at the line input and feed the box with one line and the TV with the other. Then you only need change the TV input (TV - which will be the direct feed, HDMI, Component, etc- which will be the box feed). My guess is you will still see all the channels through 65 without the box, until you shift to basic, and then, who knows?

With this you can have PIP (if your tv supports it). I shifted to directv and do miss PIP but do not miss Comcast. I could get PIP if the signals in my area were strong enough to get OTA. So far I see no digital OTA channels, only fuzzy analog, so we will see in Feb.

Yup, here in York County these are the channels I'm getting for "free"

6-1: NBC - WCSH-HD
81-1: MPBN (Create)
81-2: PBS World
81-3: ABC - WMTW-HD
81-4: FOX - WPFO
81-5: News8Now
82:12: MPBN 2
82-13: MPBN e/i
82-16 MPBN-HD
83-1: MyTv - WMPE-HD
84-1: The CW - WPXT
84-2: CBS - WGME-HD

Steve

Yup, here in York County these are the channels I'm getting for "free"

6-1: NBC - WCSH-HD
81-1: MPBN (Create)
81-2: PBS World
81-3: ABC - WMTW-HD
81-4: FOX - WPFO
81-5: News8Now
82:12: MPBN 2
82-13: MPBN e/i
82-16 MPBN-HD
83-1: MyTv - WMPE-HD
84-1: The CW - WPXT
84-2: CBS - WGME-HD

Steve

It lokos like FOX - WPFO is not in HD? I now it took forever for Comcast to get their HD feed. Any word when you'll be able to pick up FOX in HD OTA, suspecting Feb. 9, 09

We had complaints about video/audio dropouts on WCSH channel 6 recently. I noticed last night while watching Football Night in America between 7-8 PM some bad lip sync issues on a commercial involving Adam Lee, a car dealer. Not only was it in 4x3 standard def as compared with the network 16x9 HD, but very bad audio/video lip sync. Watching via D*.

The station is not getting high marks for broadcast excellence.

Dana

It lokos like FOX - WPFO is not in HD? I now it took forever for Comcast to get their HD feed. Any word when you'll be able to pick up FOX in HD OTA, suspecting Feb. 9, 09

This is well known. WPFO did not exist until after the FCC had stopped giving out assignments for digital broadcasts. So they were unable to broadcast on two channels like the other OTA stations. They indeed will switch from analog to digital when the analog switch is flipped off. They'll be on the same channel they are on now in analog.

As far as I know, Fox is in HD on Maine's Time Warner systems. Certainly it is in HD here in the Auburn/Lewiston area. I have no idea what Comcast is doing. But WPFO went out of their way to provide a signal to Time Warner.

Joe

We had complaints about video/audio dropouts on WCSH channel 6 recently. I noticed last night while watching Football Night in America between 7-8 PM some bad lip sync issues on a commercial involving Adam Lee, a car dealer. Not only was it in 4x3 standard def as compared with the network 16x9 HD, but very bad audio/video lip sync. Watching via D*.

The station is not getting high marks for broadcast excellence.

Dana

Why would you expect local commercials to be in HD when nothing else local is either? I don't believe ANY of the Maine affiliates has any local programing in HD -- news, commercials, syndicated programs or anything else! Except for Bill Green's Maine once in a blue moon -- and that on WCSH which you are complaining about!


Joe

Why would you expect local commercials to be in HD when nothing else local is either? I don't believe ANY of the Maine affiliates has any local programing in HD -- news, commercials, syndicated programs or anything else! Except for Bill Green's Maine once in a blue moon -- and that on WCSH which you are complaining about!

Joe

Actually I was complaining about bad lip sync. The rest I just threw in as factual addenda.

Dana

It lokos like FOX - WPFO is not in HD? I now it took forever for Comcast to get their HD feed. Any word when you'll be able to pick up FOX in HD OTA, suspecting Feb. 9, 09

Well I did it last night. Unplugged the cable box from my upstairs TV, just plugged in the coax. Ran a channel scan and found over 100 digital channels and 70 or so analog. I did not flip through all of them, but found ABC, CBS, NBC, in HD. Found 2 copies of Fox 23. One was analog, the other appeared HD quality. It was channel 2. Now have to try the same on my downstairs TV, and then figure out how to turn my Vista PC into a DVR so I can tell Comcast they can keep their stinkin boxes and cut my bill from $103 down to $55.

Well I did it last night. Unplugged the cable box from my upstairs TV, just plugged in the coax. Ran a channel scan and found over 100 digital channels and 70 or so analog. I did not flip through all of them, but found ABC, CBS, NBC, in HD. Found 2 copies of Fox 23. One was analog, the other appeared HD quality. It was channel 2. Now have to try the same on my downstairs TV, and then figure out how to turn my Vista PC into a DVR so I can tell Comcast they can keep their stinkin boxes and cut my bill from $103 down to $55.

When I had comcast expanded basic, which is the $55 or so cost, I only got the analog channels and about 12 digital including the locals in HD, so do not expect to get the 100 digital channels, as they will probably cut them off. Also, my guess, at the "digital" shift in Feb will see no change to this and you will still only get analog as most of them are not OTA. To get the others in HD will put you back up in the $100 range.

I shifted to Directv and am very happy with more channels in hd and cheaper than cc. But, you will be back with a box and that is just what you are trying to get away from. Same with me, when I had cc, but finally recognized that if I wanted HD, either would cost and decided on the cheapest and more channels with much better service (an understatement).

just for giggles I checked out what DirecTV had to offer online. Prices are pretty good. looks like it would be about $30 cheaper per month for the same box setup and way more HD channels than Comcast has. I have a couple questions for you DirecTV subscribers:

1. are you able to get NESN in HD either as one of the local channels or with any sports package? This is one nice to have with Comcast.

2. after you buy the receivers, do you own they at that point, or is this just some lease fee from DirecTV?

Only other challenge I don't think anyone could help me with which is the dish(es) (I assume there are 2 with HD service) and getting the wife's OK with the placement on the house.

just for giggles I checked out what DirecTV had to offer online. Prices are pretty good. looks like it would be about $30 cheaper per month for the same box setup and way more HD channels than Comcast has. I have a couple questions for you DirecTV subscribers:

1. are you able to get NESN in HD either as one of the local channels or with any sports package? This is one nice to have with Comcast.

2. after you buy the receivers, do you own they at that point, or is this just some lease fee from DirecTV?

Only other challenge I don't think anyone could help me with which is the dish(es) (I assume there are 2 with HD service) and getting the wife's OK with the placement on the house.

1. NESN in HD is readily available. I can't remember what package it is included with but it's available. Clear as a bell.

2. All DirecTV (usually abbreviated as D* on the AVS Forum threads) receivers now are leased - the first one at no monthly charge after the initial downpayment. Personally, I think that's good. Before the lease program kicked in, I bought/owned a $300. Samsung/D* HD receiver that became obsolete when MPEG 4 HD channels became available. A nice door stop. That no longer happens.

3. Only one "Slimline" dish is needed.

Dana

1. NESN in HD is readily available. I can't remember what package it is included with but it's available. Clear as a bell.
Dana
Dana, last I knew it was available with the Choice package and above. I love to watch those Bruins games in HD, I get the Center Ice package and NESN has the best quality video for hockey.

FYI, Comcast SportsNet New England HD is also available through DirecTV as part of the regular package (no sports pack required) for New England residents.

http://news.mainetoday.com/updates/036930.html This article I read is saying that MPBN is shutting off their 5 analog stations in the wee hours of January 11th.

Thought I'd mention that we lost CMP power here a few hours ago. We have a whole house standby generator so we have running water, heat and other electrical conveniences. That includes sat TV by the way, which may not be true for those who have a generator but are on cable. Cable battery backup units are pole mounted and don't last more than an hour or so, as I recall when with Comcast/Suscom during a previous storm.

Something to remember when we see those cable commercials bashing sat TV. I'm sure my dish is ice covered - it's not in my line of sight without getting wet and/or risking life and limb - but it is working fine.

Obviously, so is my internet using FairPoint/Verizon. The ol' phone company has major battery backup. That's not the case with VOIP as I found out when with GWI.

I certainly hope everyone is safe and sound riding this mess out.

Dana

knock on wood here.

Thought I'd mention that we lost CMP power here a few hours ago. We have a whole house standby generator so we have running water, heat and other electrical conveniences. That includes sat TV by the way, which may not be true for those who have a generator but are on cable. Cable battery backup units are pole mounted and don't last more than an hour or so, as I recall when with Comcast/Suscom during a previous storm.

Something to remember when we see those cable commercials bashing sat TV. I'm sure my dish is ice covered - it's not in my line of sight without getting wet and/or risking life and limb - but it is working fine.

Obviously, so is my internet using FairPoint/Verizon. The ol' phone company has major battery backup. That's not the case with VOIP as I found out when with GWI.

I certainly hope everyone is safe and sound riding this mess out.

Dana
Your right, can't beat those satellite services when it comes to storms. We went through the same thing here in Florida, in 2004, when our area got hit with two hurricanes, in a two week period. Cable was down for weeks, but we had satellite TV back as soon as the wind died down and I was able to start my generator. When I originally mounted the dish I put it in a protected area on the back of the house, out of the wind. Our house was the focal point of the neighborhood until the cable got repaired a few weeks later. I made them bring the beer for the nightly movies.

After those two hurricanes, a lot of dishes popped up in our neighborhood.

Hope my dish is still on the roof when I get back up there, had no protected area to mount it in, and still maintain line of sight.

All you guys, in Maine, stay safe and Happy Holidays.

Your right, can't beat those satellite services when it comes to storms. We went through the same thing here in Florida, in 2004, when our area got hit with two hurricanes, in a two week period. Cable was down for weeks, but we had satellite TV back as soon as the wind died down and I was able to start my generator. When I originally mounted the dish I put it in a protected area on the back of the house, out of the wind. Our house was the focal point of the neighborhood until the cable got repaired a few weeks later. I made them bring the beer for the nightly movies.

After those two hurricanes, a lot of dishes popped up in our neighborhood.

Hope my dish is still on the roof when I get back up there, had no protected area to mount it in, and still maintain line of sight.

All you guys, in Maine, stay safe and Happy Holidays.

Hey, Loudo38!

Great hearing from you! I wondered if you had gone back to Melbourne when you posted your last note.

This storm is somewhat reminiscent of the Great Ice Storm of 1998 - which wasn't great except for the extent of the damage it did. The NWS says this one won't be as bad. But, I remember a story Ed Muskie used to tell about the fly fisherman who drowned in a stream, the average depth of which was only three feet. ;)

Dana

In Biddeford we lost power at 2:30am today, and we're still in the dark. Power lines were ripped off the side of the house, but CMP is supposed to be coming tonight or tomorrow. We have a generator that is powering the freezer, upstairs fridge, and a few other things thru the house. I wish I could do the well and furnace.........but the wood stove is keeping the house warm. Next year we'll be better prepared..........I'm going to fix it so the furnace and well will be powered.

No cable service right now..........so no internet or phones for me.

I'm at the in-laws using their wi-fi.

Steve

In Biddeford we lost power at 2:30am today, and we're still in the dark. Power lines were ripped off the side of the house, but CMP is supposed to be coming tonight or tomorrow. We have a generator that is powering the freezer, upstairs fridge, and a few other things thru the house. I wish I could do the well and furnace.........but the wood stove is keeping the house warm. Next year we'll be better prepared..........I'm going to fix it so the furnace and well will be powered.

No cable service right now..........so no internet or phones for me.

I'm at the in-laws using their wi-fi.

Steve

We received a recorded phone message tonight advising that an emergency shelter has been set up at the SAD 75 area high school in Topsham. People without power on a cold night - not good. I haven't read or heard the total number of homes affected in Maine but an AP story reports the total is 1.25 million from ME. to PA.

We are sooo lucky to have our backup generator. It could be days before all are connected to utility power again.

Dana

PS. "Central Maine Power Co. reports that 215,000 customer accounts are without power at mid-day today and that number is likely to continue rising through the day...." http://news.mainetoday.com/updates/037040.html

We are sooo lucky to have our backup generator. It could be days before all are connected to utility power again.

What kind of generator do you have?

We did not lose power in North Bath, but are fairly well situated with wood stove, gas oven and buckets of water. Used to live in Fl and hurricanes were a fact of life as was losing power for long periods. There we would fill the tub with water.

As far as my new dish and 1/4- 1/2 inch of ice, all is well. We would lose CC even when we had power! Love D*, except for the problem of too many channels! Like a kid in a candy store. Keep it fairly well in check by only recording HD for later viewing. Very spoiled.

What kind of generator do you have?

We did not lose power in North Bath, but are fairly well situated with wood stove, gas oven and buckets of water. Used to live in Fl and hurricanes were a fact of life as was losing power for long periods. There we would fill the tub with water.

As far as my new dish and 1/4- 1/2 inch of ice, all is well. We would lose CC even when we had power! Love D*, except for the problem of too many channels! Like a kid in a candy store. Keep it fairly well in check by only recording HD for later viewing. Very spoiled.

Hey beekeeper!

We have a QuietSource (aka water cooled) generator made by Generac. Sold by Hone Depot and installed by an electrician in Rockland/Owl's Head. Propane. Very pleased with it.

We got our power from CMP back yesterday noon.

Dana

We just got our power back tonight at 6:30, we lost it Friday morning at 2:30.

What made it even worse was that at 3am Friday, the power lines got ripped off the side of the house. So they have been laying on the driveway all weekend, but nothing was damaged at all. So this morning I went out and put new hooks in the house for reattachment, and just waited for someone to show up to help us out. Around 4pm the power company from New Brunswick rolled in the driveway and fixed us up, then a CMP guy pulled in and told us to expect power in a couple of hours.

We had the woodstove going, we had a generator going for the freezer, fridge, and a few lights. We used all the ice in buckets and melted it with the woodstove to flush the toilet.

It was a waste of a weekend, but I'm sure glad to have power back for the work week.

Steve

We just got our power back tonight at 6:30, we lost it Friday morning at 2:30.

What made it even worse was that at 3am Friday, the power lines got ripped off the side of the house. So they have been laying on the driveway all weekend, but nothing was damaged at all. So this morning I went out and put new hooks in the house for reattachment, and just waited for someone to show up to help us out. Around 4pm the power company from New Brunswick rolled in the driveway and fixed us up, then a CMP guy pulled in and told us to expect power in a couple of hours.

We had the woodstove going, we had a generator going for the freezer, fridge, and a few lights. We used all the ice in buckets and melted it with the woodstove to flush the toilet.

It was a waste of a weekend, but I'm sure glad to have power back for the work week.

Steve

What a bummer. They had "heat shelters" Sunday around here and may have had overnight shelters, too.

On a much less serious note, the start of the CBS telecast of the Pats game at Oakland was promoted as being in HD but it wasn't for several minutes. I'm not sure if it was network or local issues.

Dana

In the spirit of giving props where props are due, I have to hand it to TWC. Our power went out at 2am Friday morning in Cape Eliz, and the only tree limb that fell on our property took out the cable drop. I called TWC mid-morning on Friday, and the line was back up by Sunday morning. Electricity didn't come back until 3am Monday, but when it did our TV, phone and Internet was good to go. I wouldn't have been surprised to wait a week for them to come fix a single line, but they surprised me.

Just placed my order for DirecTV. I'm getting hooked up on the 29th. After the promotions run out I'll be spending $20 less per month than with Comcast for the same setup with way more HD channels.

Just placed my order for DirecTV. I'm getting hooked up on the 29th. After the promotions run out I'll be spending $20 less per month than with Comcast for the same setup with way more HD channels.

Good for you! I suggest you make contact with Direct Tech which is the installing contractor in Portland for DirecTV = D* on the AVR forums. 878-3322 x1 = Claire. You can confirm your appointment, etc.

Dana

Just placed my order for DirecTV. I'm getting hooked up on the 29th. After the promotions run out I'll be spending $20 less per month than with Comcast for the same setup with way more HD channels.

If you call them, and have an order in for a HD-DVR, request a HR23, if they have them in stock yet. They have a 500 GB hard drive for storage (So does the HR22) but don't required you to hang the BBC filters off the back of your DVR, like the HR22 and earlier model HD-DVRs. They may not have them in stock yet, as they just came out, but if you have an order in for a HD-DVR it is worth a try.

In the spirit of giving props where props are due, I have to hand it to TWC. Our power went out at 2am Friday morning in Cape Eliz, and the only tree limb that fell on our property took out the cable drop. I called TWC mid-morning on Friday, and the line was back up by Sunday morning. Electricity didn't come back until 3am Monday, but when it did our TV, phone and Internet was good to go. I wouldn't have been surprised to wait a week for them to come fix a single line, but they surprised me.

I had no power from 6am Friday until 3pm Saturday and when my power came back...guess what...no cable (or phone or internet since I have all three from Time Warner Cable) So I called them on my cell phone and the CSR told me it would likely be a week or more before I had service again. What's worse, the DVR would not let me watch shows I had recorded because without power the box forgot it was authorized and Time Warner couldn't "hit" the box without cable service. But, props to Time Warner...2 hours later the service was back. It looks like they did an excellent job!

Good for you! I suggest you make contact with Direct Tech which is the installing contractor in Portland for DirecTV = D* on the AVR forums. 878-3322 x1 = Claire. You can confirm your appointment, etc.

Dana

I gave her a call. Looks like my info has not made it to them yet. They had nothing on file for my home phone #, but she wrote it down and is going to check periodically and get back to me when my info shows up.

I asked about the HR23 receiver and she said they do not have them in their warehouse yet. I don't know anything about these BBC filters. Is this just something that has to be plugged in the back? I have plenty of room behind my TV cabinet so I don't think it will be a problem. 500GB of storage sounds like plenty though, and surely more than the old Scientific Atlanta DVR I currently have through CC. Thanks guys.

I gave her a call. Looks like my info has not made it to them yet. They had nothing on file for my home phone #, but she wrote it down and is going to check periodically and get back to me when my info shows up.

I asked about the HR23 receiver and she said they do not have them in their warehouse yet. I don't know anything about these BBC filters. Is this just something that has to be plugged in the back? I have plenty of room behind my TV cabinet so I don't think it will be a problem. 500GB of storage sounds like plenty though, and surely more than the old Scientific Atlanta DVR I currently have through CC. Thanks guys.

You can also check the status of your scheduled appointment on line on the D* web site. I was able to move mine up to a better date by monitoring the on line system. But, if your appointment doesn't show up soon, call Installation Support at 1-888-355-7530. Don't assume anything. ;)

Yes, the BBC is a little inline dongle that attaches to the back of your HD receiver and the incoming coax attaches to it. Nothing complicated.

Dana

According to the article, Maine Public Broadcasting (MPBN) is doing some cost cutting. They will shut down their radio transmitter in Fort Kent and the TV transmitter in Calais by the New Brunswick border. No mention as to whether they meant both analog and digital for WMED-TV/DT. I'm going to guess both of them here.

http://news.mainetoday.com/updates/037303.html

According to the article, Maine Public Broadcasting (MPBN) is doing some cost cutting. They will shut down their radio transmitter in Fort Kent and the TV transmitter in Calais by the New Brunswick border. No mention as to whether they meant both analog and digital for WMED-TV/DT. I'm going to guess both of them here.

http://news.mainetoday.com/updates/037303.html

Good to know although not good news for those affected. The story indicates that the spokesperson was vague about what "... options people in the Fort Kent and Calais areas might have to receive MPBN programming once the towers are closed...." They have the same options we do. Satellite TV and radio. I'm not sure about cable in Ft. Kent and Calais, however.

I for one have been waiting for the day when D* picks up the MPBN HD channel in our DMA. D* has begun to add the local public HD broadcast channels to its local HD channel lineup in several other DMAs. I hope ours will be updated soon.

Both of the transmitters to be shut down are close to the Canadian border. When we last traveled to Canada five years ago, I noticed the large number of sat dishes on display on local houses the closer we got to the border. So residents there have access. And while visiting in Canada, one of the houses had a sat dish with a US news station blaring away while we were there.

NPR radio stations are carried by the merged sat radio carriers Sirius/XM Radio.

Dana

I for one have been waiting for the day when D* picks up the MPBN HD channel in our DMA. D* has begun to add the local public HD broadcast channels to its local HD channel lineup in several other DMAs. I hope ours will be updated soon.


Presently there is very little true HD on MPBN HD. I get MPBN OTA...... MPBN HD is on 10.2 while the SD channel is on 10.1. Shows like the news at 7:00PM are in true HD and look terrific. But many of the programs, like "This Old House" for example, are 'zoomed' out versions of the MPBN SD channel. Since these shows are in letterbox format on MPBN SD, the MPBN HD picture fills out the screen properly, but the crispness and clarity of HD is not here.

I am sure in time this will change, but for now you can get pretty much the same picture on MPBN SD by using the Zoom feature built into your TV.

John

Presently there is very little true HD on MPBN HD. I get MPBN OTA...... MPBN HD is on 10.2 while the SD channel is on 10.1. Shows like the news at 7:00PM are in true HD and look terrific. But many of the programs, like "This Old House" for example, are 'zoomed' out versions of the MPBN SD channel. Since these shows are in letterbox format on MPBN SD, the MPBN HD picture fills out the screen properly, but the crispness and clarity of HD is not here.

I am sure in time this will change, but for now you can get pretty much the same picture on MPBN SD by using the Zoom feature built into your TV.

John

Thanks, John. That's what I was afraid of. I forgot what happened over a year ago just before I left Comcast which had added the channel to its lineup.

MPBN dropped the HD feed from PBS and simulcast its regular programming on its HD channel. I blew a gasket and ripped off a complaint via email to the PR Director, Lou Morin. The PBS feed did have lots of reruns but that was fine. I got acquainted with History Detectives, Legends of Jazz, etc. All award-winning programs by the way.

Morin did respond and offered the incomprehensible explanation (given him by higher ups) that the PBS feed was pulled so MPBN could "plan" how to better use the HD channel after February 2009. It made no sense. What it did do was eliminate any programming for adults during the daytime on MPBN. :(

Maybe D* will get the MPBN HD channel just in time for us to discover what they have "planned" for us. I know exactly what's coming right after the cutover. High School basketball. Undoubtedly in smeary standard def plunked onto the HD channel. They have lost me as a supporter/contributor.

Thanks to your reminder, I'll lower my expectations of what to expect when D* eventually carries MPBN HD.

Dana

The 24/7 PBS-HD feed was provided over satellite by PBS. That feed ends tomorrow. If they didn't pull it, you'd be watching either dead air or the generic PBS feed that replaced it, which is mostly the same as the SD feed anyway.

- Trip

Any rumors to the next Time Warner additions to the HD lineup?

It's been a while since we had any new channels added, it's about time for a few new ones.

Spike and Speed are at the top of my list.

Steve

Any rumors to the next Time Warner additions to the HD lineup?

It's been a while since we had any new channels added, it's about time for a few new ones.

Spike and Speed are at the top of my list.

Steve

According to this thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=652328

Time Warner has been adding HD channels left and right to other systems across the country including the NBC Universal suite in HD(USA, SCIFI, CNBC etc) So deals are done, and Time Warner has Switched Digital Video deployed in southern Maine so bandwidth isn't in issue so we should be seeing these channels anytime now, right?? RIGHT?? It would really be nice to see Burn Notice and Battlestar Galacticia in HD when they premiere in January!

I had the D* installer, Jeff, out here at my house in Durham yesterday morning. He checked his little alignment tool, did a walkaround, and told me it was going to be tough to get the signal due to the big pines on the south western side of my yard. He tried 3 different locations on trees on the opposite side of the yard. On the last one he could hit all the satellites except for the lowest one, so not strong enough signal to get things to work.

He did tell me that in a few weeks they're ditching that lowest satellite, the 119, and moving things over to the other existing satellites and that I should try to reschedule for a month out when this has been done. He also said there are some great changes coming in their receivers/DVR's with new things such as the ability to have wireless phone handsets communicate with them.

I called and had them put my account in a suspend status. Hopefully he was accurate in his timeframes for the change with the satellite.

I had the D* installer, Jeff, out here at my house in Durham yesterday morning. He checked his little alignment tool, did a walkaround, and told me it was going to be tough to get the signal due to the big pines on the south western side of my yard. He tried 3 different locations on trees on the opposite side of the yard. On the last one he could hit all the satellites except for the lowest one, so not strong enough signal to get things to work.

He did tell me that in a few weeks they're ditching that lowest satellite, the 119, and moving things over to the other existing satellites and that I should try to reschedule for a month out when this has been done. He also said there are some great changes coming in their receivers/DVR's with new things such as the ability to have wireless phone handsets communicate with them.

I called and had them put my account in a suspend status. Hopefully he was accurate in his timeframes for the change with the satellite.

I would question that. I find it hard to believe that a satellite designed for 15 years of operation would be ditched after 5 years of operation, when it is working fine. That satellite also has hundreds of spot beamed locals for all around the country, plus foreign language broadcasts.

Maybe they are planning to move the Portland locals to a higher satellite, but I doubt very much if they are planning to ditch DirecTV 7. But, I guess it could be true. The only stations that are on 119, that would effect the Portland/Auburn market are the locals, and they are only the SD versions of them. If you have an HDTV and you can see satellite DirecTV 11, at 99 degrees, you can get those same locals in HD. Over the years I have found that sometimes we can't believe everything the installers tell us.

I would question that. I find it hard to believe that a satellite designed for 15 years of operation would be ditched after 5 years of operation, when it is working fine. That satellite also has hundreds of spot beamed locals for all around the country, plus foreign language broadcasts.

Maybe they are planning to move the Portland locals to a higher satellite, but I doubt very much if they are planning to ditch DirecTV 7. But, I guess it could be true. The only stations that are on 119, that would effect the Portland/Auburn market are the locals, and they are only the SD versions of them. If you have an HDTV and you can see satellite DirecTV 11, at 99 degrees, you can get those same locals in HD. Over the years I have found that sometimes we can't believe everything the installers tell us.

could be... he actually had one of his other local installers meet him over here. I was talking to them both. They said there were only like 3 HD channels on the 119 satellite, Universal HD and some of the other odd ones. He made it sound like it was a capacity thing and they had plenty of room on the other satellites to move everything off the 119 and decomission it. I'm not too worried about it. I will call back in a few weeks. If I can get D* that's great. If I'm stuck with CC then oh well, worse things could happen I guess.

could be... he actually had one of his other local installers meet him over here. I was talking to them both. They said there were only like 3 HD channels on the 119 satellite, Universal HD and some of the other odd ones. He made it sound like it was a capacity thing and they had plenty of room on the other satellites to move everything off the 119 and decomission it. I'm not too worried about it. I will call back in a few weeks. If I can get D* that's great. If I'm stuck with CC then oh well, worse things could happen I guess.
First of all 119 does not have any HD transponders on it and contains hundreds of SD channels, mostly locals and some foreign language channels. Universal HD is not on 119, it is on DirecTV 11/Spaceway 2, at 99 degrees.

As I said before if 119 is the only satellite that is not in view of your dish, the only thing you would miss would be the Portland SD locals and if you have a outside antenna and a newer HDTV with a tuner in it, you could still get them, with your antenna. You could also by an additional tuner from DirecTV (AM21) and it could pick up the locals through your antenna. If your TV is an HD, you can get the Portland HD locals from DirecTV 11, at 99 degrees.

I usually check lyngsat.
http://www.lyngsat-maps.com/america.html

First of all 119 does not have any HD transponders on it and contains hundreds of SD channels, mostly locals and some foreign language channels. Universal HD is not on 119, it is on DirecTV 11/Spaceway 2, at 99 degrees.

As I said before if 119 is the only satellite that is not in view of your dish, the only thing you would miss would be the Portland SD locals and if you have a outside antenna and a newer HDTV with a tuner in it, you could still get them, with your antenna. You could also by an additional tuner from DirecTV (AM21) and it could pick up the locals through your antenna. If your TV is an HD, you can get the Portland HD locals from DirecTV 11, at 99 degrees.

The installation tech was saying that for the HD DVR to function properly it has to be able to see all 5 satellites. The normal HD receive would be fine with only seeing all except the low one my pine tree is blocking, but the DVR wouldn't work. We'll see what happens in a few weeks when I call back. I'm not going to cut down an 80 ft. pine tree that's 30 ft. from my house just to get the dish.

Well I think the final straw as broken...........

I just got my Time Warner bill in the mail yesterday........it went up $13 for no good reason at all. I think it's time for me to say F-off to Time Warner Cable and move up to either Direct or Dish Network.

Which service gives the best HD selections........Direct TV or Dish Network?

I have 2 HDTV's in the house, and one SDTV in the basement. I would want full service to the HDTV's, and basic service to the SDTV. DVR would be needed as well.

I was looking at Direct's website last night and I think the step below the Premier package is what I would go with......I can't remember the name of the package.

I'm looking for any help at all......I'm really sick of TWC charging us more for nothing.

Thanks,

Steve

I think it's time for me to say F-off to Time Warner Cable and move up to either Direct or Dish Network.

Which service gives the best HD selections........Direct TV or Dish Network?
They are both good services, but with DirecTV you get more HD channels and especially if you like sports. On top of what they already have I hear rumors that they are adding a few more, including the new MLB Channel, in January (rumor has it). I say rumor, because DirecTV has a policy that they don't announce new channels by name, until they light them up, but rumors float around about new upcoming channels. Also, as a general rule, DirecTV has the new channels before DISH.

I have 2 HDTV's in the house, and one SDTV in the basement. I would want full service to the HDTV's, and basic service to the SDTV. DVR would be needed as well.
With DirecTV you pay your base price for the package, then $4.99 for each additional receiver, excluding the first one. You get the same programing on all sets. That is except if you have a SD TV and 2 HD set, you will not get the HD programing on the SD sets, all SD programing will be the same on all sets and the two HD sets will have all HD programing, in your subscription package. You also have a monthly DVR fee of $5.99 a month. This is for 1 DVR or if you have 5, the DVR fee is the same $5.99. There is also a HD fee of, I believe $9.99 a month for HD channels, also a time monthly fee for all HD sets.

I was looking at Direct's website last night and I think the step below the Premier package is what I would go with......I can't remember the name of the package.

That package includes everything except Premium Movie Channels (HBO, Starz, Showtime and Max) and the RSN Sports package, which is a package of all the local sports networks around the country. The sports networks are subject to blackout for many Pro events, but you get programing from them during other shows. Without the RSN Sports package you will only get NESN and Comcast NE, for local sports channels.

If you are a football fan and have a team outside of the Patriots area that you follow, you can subscribe to the Sunday ticket NFL package. It is expensive for what you get, but is only available through DirecTV.

I have had both services (DirecTV and DISH). The thing I don't like about DISH is they have contract disputes and sometimes stop programing from networks while they are in their dispute. This was the straw that broke the camels back, a few years ago, when they dropped Lifetime during a contract dispute. My Wife needs her Lifetime fix, on a daily basis and without it on DISH we switched to DirecTV. We are happy with their service.

WOW did you see this garbage today scrolling at the bottom of 18 different 1channels saying we are going to lose them uless we call some number???? What the hell is going on with TWC!!!!!:eek:

They are going to lose lots of business over this crap

WOW did you see this garbage today scrolling at the bottom of 18 different 1channels saying we are going to lose them uless we call some number???? What the hell is going on with TWC!!!!!:eek:

They are going to lose lots of business over this crap

Here is the story on it: http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6625759.html?industryid=47171

Bill goes up $13 and now they are taking away 18 popular channels...............it's a no brainer now.

I'm liking the looks of Dish Network...........1 box does 2 rooms.

Anyone else have any info or preference between Dish or Direct?

Steve

See post 3153 above.

could be... he actually had one of his other local installers meet him over here. I was talking to them both. They said there were only like 3 HD channels on the 119 satellite, Universal HD and some of the other odd ones. He made it sound like it was a capacity thing and they had plenty of room on the other satellites to move everything off the 119 and decomission it. I'm not too worried about it. I will call back in a few weeks. If I can get D* that's great. If I'm stuck with CC then oh well, worse things could happen I guess.
Your installer was correct, there is a few HD channels on 119. My source was wrong.


I usually check lyngsat.
http://www.lyngsat-maps.com/america.html
This was my source, but after some research, I found out the Lyngsat information for DirecTV channels needs a lot of updating.

Here is the story on it: http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6625759.html?industryid=47171

Well, if they get pulled off the Maine TWC, at least we can consider ourselves as a "top market." :rolleyes:

While the number of affected customers was not available at press time, the dispute will affect all of Time Warner Cable's top markets...

Changing topics to something more positive, I noticed during the Sunday telecast on CBS of the Pats-Buffalo game in HD on D* that WGME TV channel 13 was able to show its station ID overlaid on the 16x9 HD screen. No black sidebar 4x3 standard def insertion. That's progress! :cool:

Dana

Here is an update on the Viacom/TWC negotiations as of 5:00 tonight. No settlement yet.
http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6625921.html?nid=4262

I'm going to go talk with some local retailers about Dish and Direct on Friday to see what looks like the best deal for me.

I'll stick with TW for road runner and digital phone for now............but that is up for review at any time.

LOL

Steve

I'm going to go talk with some local retailers about Dish and Direct on Friday to see what looks like the best deal for me.

I'll stick with TW for road runner and digital phone for now............but that is up for review at any time.

LOL

Steve

Don't ignore the package that Fairpoint offers while doing your research. Landline phone, DSL internet (7.1 speed in some locations) and DirecTV at a discount price.

Dana

Here is an update on the Viacom/TWC negotiations as of 5:00 tonight. No settlement yet.
http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6625921.html?nid=4262

They settled. http://apnews.excite.com/article/20090102/D95F0FV00.html

Dana

Changing topics to something more positive, I noticed during the Sunday telecast on CBS of the Pats-Buffalo game in HD on D* that WGME TV channel 13 was able to show its station ID overlaid on the 16x9 HD screen. No black sidebar 4x3 standard def insertion. That's progress! :cool:

Dana

I actually noticed them doing that for the first time during the Masters last April. However, I've seen the drop to SD for station ID several time since then. IIRC, I heard it was a training issue, typically with the weekend staff.

Went to tvfool.com, and the attached pic are the results I got. I'm only interested in picking up channels 44 (6) 8 (8) 10 (10) 38 (13) 23 (23) 35 (35) & 43 (51).
Which antenna(s) should I get? Preferably one that will grab ALL channels at once (Plan to use with DVR).
Also, roof is metal. That will be a problem I take it?

Went to tvfool.com, and the attached pic are the results I got. I'm only interested in picking up channels 44 (6) 8 (8) 10 (10) 38 (13) 23 (23) 35 (35) & 43 (51).
Which antenna(s) should I get? Preferably one that will grab ALL channels at once (Plan to use with DVR).
Also, roof is metal. That will be a problem I take it?

Another place to ask is

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=25

but am interested in what you learn.

Another place to ask is

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=25

but am interested in what you learn.

This one is my favorite and easiest to use. Just click on "Choose and antenna" and all you need to do is enter your zip code. It will tell you how strong of an antenna you need for each station from your location.
http://antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx

Don't ignore the package that Fairpoint offers while doing your research. Landline phone, DSL internet (7.1 speed in some locations) and DirecTV at a discount price.

Dana

Dana - or anybody else with experience. I am frustrated with poor signal quality and high prices from TW, and am considering moving to the Fairpoint bundle (Phone, DSL, DirecTV) as a replacement. I'd be interested in comments from anybody who has made this transition.

Dana - or anybody else with experience. I am frustrated with poor signal quality and high prices from TW, and am considering moving to the Fairpoint bundle (Phone, DSL, DirecTV) as a replacement. I'd be interested in comments from anybody who has made this transition.

Worked for me. I already had switched from Comcast Brunswick cable to DirecTV (abbreviated as D* on the AVS Forum) and had jumped off of Comcast cable internet to GWI for phone and internet. (Comcast cable internet was fine - actually provided by GWI - but you can't subscribe for internet only; they insist on your carrying a minimum TV package, too.)

GWI has outstanding customer service and support, but has a limited offering in terms of VOIP phone quality and DSL speed here.

Fairpoint rolled out 7.1 DSL here and I live close enough to the switch house to get it. So, I went back to Fairpoint (really still Verizon until the end of this month) for landline phone and 7.1 DSL, and then sort of backed into the package plan. You still deal with D* directly to select whatever TV channels you want, installation, etc. You get a discount when you bundle all three services onto one bill and pay by check to Fairpoint each month.

Dana

Two new clear QAM digital channels on Time Warner (former Adelphia) in Greene (Auburn/Lewiston):

WFVX 22 (Bangor FOX/MyNetwork TV)
WLBZ 2 (Bangor NBC)

This adds to the Bangor station we already got, ABC's WVII 7

We still haven't gotten the Portland My Network TV station (WPME 35)

We don't get any of the Bangor stations in analog service; we do get WPME 35. It will be interesting to see if we pick up WPME next month when they go digital only OTA.

Joe

AFAIK 35 is only digital on 28, no analog OTA, like 51.

Oh yeah, that's right... I forgot they already turned off the analog transmitter for WPXT and WPME. Anyways, it is screwy they don't give us the digital feed for WPME like they do for Portland subscribers. Not that there's much to watch on it in HD.

Joe

Yes, pickings are slim.

WPME-DT flash-cut from channel 28 to channel 35 a while ago. It also appears they added some kind of subchannel airing information about Maine or something. I wasn't sure what to make of it.

- Trip

I was just doing some poking around -- trying to find out about WFVX which is actually a combo Fox/MyNetwork TV affiliate low power station in Bangor. I'll be curious to see if there is any HD programming -- they are only broadcasting in SD digital (piggybacking on a subchannel of WVII's digital broadcast). It is possible (if only an outside chance) that they are feeding Time Warner an HD signal.

Apparently low power stations don't need to convert to digital -- WFVX doesn't have an application to do so -- and so I looked at the two low power stations in Portland -- W32CA (apparently a Trinity Broadcast low power affiliate), and WLLB-LP (apparently a Daystar affiliate).

W32CA has an application to switch to digital; WLLB-LP does not.

Does anyone actually receive these stations? They aren't carried on Time Warner, are they?

Joe

WPME-DT flash-cut from channel 28 to channel 35 a while ago. It also appears they added some kind of subchannel airing information about Maine or something. I wasn't sure what to make of it.

- Trip

Isn't this their "Dollar Saver" Maine Coupon sales show? Where they profile a local business then offer a discount coupon or gift certificate for sale?

WPME-DT flash-cut from channel 28 to channel 35 a while ago. It also appears they added some kind of subchannel airing information about Maine or something. I wasn't sure what to make of it.

- Trip

You're right, I got it backwards as 51 is 43 and 35 is 35.

Looked at your sig and I might get Orono MPBN - again, but today I read they were keeping signals active until after transition. "For review"

A press release posted here http://www.mpbn.net/About/PressReleases/tabid/313/ctl/ViewItem/mid/1141/ItemId/8817/Default.aspx?SkinSrc=/Portals/_default/Skins/MPBN/H1%20-%20Bordered&ContainerSrc=/Portals/_default/Containers/MPBN%20-%20Black/Dark%20Header%20-%20Open also has been picked up by the AP. I saw it in the Brunswick Times-Record tonight.

The subhead says "Radio, TV towers slated for closure in January will remain on until at least February 28." Waiting for a bail out.

Here's something I didn't know. From the same press release:

Under the initial plan, the shut-down was to have lasted until the end of MPBN’s fiscal year on June 30, 2009, with the transmitters to be restarted on July 1.


Huh? This is playing "chicken" with the Legislature.

Dana

MPBN needs to take a political "lesson" from the National Park Service. I worked for the Federal government in Washington from 1974-81 and marveled at how it operated. Whenever it ran short of funds, the National Park Service would request a supplemental appropriation from the Congress, explaining that if funds were not forthcoming, it would have to close some national parks and monuments.

Which ones? Well, not the virtually unknown one at Dry Tortugas. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_Tortugas

Because it is located 70 miles (110 km) west of Key West, the Dry Tortugas park is one of the less accessible National Parks in the U.S. Visiting the park by private boat is difficult because of its distance, so most visitors come by ferry, catamaran, or seaplane from Key West, Florida. ...

No, the National Park Service proposed to - and did - close the Washington Monument. That's the one that Members of Congress love to give tickets to school kids to visit on Spring Vacation trips to DC. It's the most popular National Monument operated by the National Park Service. Yellowstone National Park was another one it would put on the chopping block if funds were not made available. Needless to say, funds were made available. Otherwise, Members of Congress would get an earful from their constituents when they came to DC.

The lesson here is don't offer reasonable alternatives unless you want the funding authority to take you up on it. Propose to shut something visible that the funding authority cares about, preferably something the public cares about, too. ;)

Dana

(Comcast cable internet was fine - actually provided by GWI - but you can't subscribe for internet only; they insist on your carrying a minimum TV package, too.)

Actually that's not true, at least in my case. I have Comcr*p cable internet and have no TV package at all from them. D* for all TV.

Actually that's not true, at least in my case. I have Comcr*p cable internet and have no TV package at all from them. D* for all TV.

Really? Not even the basic package is required? No surcharge if you're not a TV customer? I was told I had to pay $49.20 for basic cable to keep cable internet at that point in time. Perhaps I was misinformed by one of the Comcast telephone reps. Oh well. I left and haven't looked back.

Anyway, thanks for the clarification.

Dana

I was just doing some poking around -- trying to find out about WFVX which is actually a combo Fox/MyNetwork TV affiliate low power station in Bangor. I'll be curious to see if there is any HD programming -- they are only broadcasting in SD digital (piggybacking on a subchannel of WVII's digital broadcast). It is possible (if only an outside chance) that they are feeding Time Warner an HD signal.

Well, WFVX is in HD. One of the Bangor folks tells me WFVX is Fox during the day and MyNetwork overnight. Fox programs were in HD tonight. I don't know what MyNetwork programing might be in HD.

WLBZ (NBC) also was in HD.


Joe

Really? Not even the basic package is required? No surcharge if you're not a TV customer? I was told I had to pay $49.20 for basic cable to keep cable internet at that point in time. Perhaps I was misinformed by one of the Comcast telephone reps. Oh well. I left and haven't looked back.

Anyway, thanks for the clarification.

Dana

It seems that the policy was to say that and see what happened. If you accepted it, they shut up, if you threaten to leave, they backed down and let you drop the tv. Nice to be rid of them.

One interesting thing with direct, I was charged for the game package on my first bill. I called and was assured it would be dropped since I had not signed up for it. Showed up again the next month, called again, and again was there the third month.

I went on line and dropped it with no problem as well as shifting my service to a lower package (I had the nfl promo with had about everything). Called customer service again and they verified that the on-line change worked while my customer service calls did not and was credited for the three months.

Since they also had given me the nfl package in hd at no extra charge, I was a happy camper and still am. They were totally above board and very helpful.

Well, WFVX is in HD. One of the Bangor folks tells me WFVX is Fox during the day and MyNetwork overnight. Fox programs were in HD tonight. I don't know what MyNetwork programing might be in HD.

WLBZ (NBC) also was in HD.


WFVX is only HD on cable (and maybe D* now too). It's SD for the rest of us, especially over the air where it's a subchannel on the ABC 7 feed. It's not that the person you quoted is wrong, it's that they may not be aware that WFVX is in HD on those two services. Usually you'd think we'd see it in HD over the air too, but we're not that lucky.

NBC CBS ABC PBS are in HD here in the city, FOX and CW are in SD Digital.

WFVX is only HD on cable (and maybe D* now too). It's SD for the rest of us, especially over the air where it's a subchannel on the ABC 7 feed. It's not that the person you quoted is wrong, it's that they may not be aware that WFVX is in HD on those two services. Usually you'd think we'd see it in HD over the air too, but we're not that lucky.

NBC CBS ABC PBS are in HD here in the city, FOX and CW are in SD Digital.

The guy I quoted didn't say anything about what was in HD and what wasn't. It was just an observation of my own -- I assumed that OTA WFVX was standard def because it was on a subchannel. It is nice that they (like WPFO in the Portland market) provide the high def signal to the cable company.

How does the CW & CBS work in Bangor? Their website says that WABI is a CBS affiliate, but they more prominantly display the CW logo. Do they have separate subchannels like WVII/WFVX? Or do they alternate between feeds like WFVX has Fox & MyNetworkTV?

This is more of academic interest for me than anything else -- the Bangor locals' network programming is identical to the Portland locals'. But there are now more choices for us off-hours as far as syndicated programming is concerned -- all I have is basic cable, so not much viewing choice.

I think it is curious that I get the Bangor stations at all. The digital signal I get must be the south western most location to have Bangor locals. Probably we get our feed from a substation that supplies signal to August/Waterville viewers who are supposed to get Bangor locals. I would have thought we were fed from an Auburn/Lewiston location. Digital cable boxes would be set to black them out, but I get them because they are clear QAM and I'm tuning them directly.

On another topic, I sent an email to Time Warner asking when we would get WPME HD in my area, and they sent back a response to me explaining that it is "not yet available in the digital channel lineup of your area". Thanks, Time Warner! The info was illuminating!

Joe

WABI-DT

5-1 CBS-HD
5-2 CW-SD

- Trip

How does the CW & CBS work in Bangor? Their website says that WABI is a CBS affiliate, but they more prominantly display the CW logo. Do they have separate subchannels like WVII/WFVX? Or do they alternate between feeds like WFVX has Fox & MyNetworkTV?

CW is on Subchannel 5.2 over the air here on the CBS feed (5.1). They're also on various cable systems, but I don't know if they're in HD or not on cable.

The WABI Hyundai Santa-Fe vehicles around here have the CW logo on them too, so basically it's a situation more like WFVX/WVII instead of WFVX and MyNetwork. MyNetwork is more like the secret hidden bastard child for WFVX. Mynetworktv.com doesn't even admit WFVX has MyNetwork programming.

EDIT: The WVII/WFVX vehicles have FOX22 and ABC7 on them as well. I don't think myNetwork is represented at all.

CW is on Subchannel 5.2 over the air here on the CBS feed (5.1). They're also on various cable systems, but I don't know if they're in HD or not on cable.

The WABI Hyundai Santa-Fe vehicles around here have the CW logo on them too, so basically it's a situation more like WFVX/WVII instead of WFVX and MyNetwork. MyNetwork is more like the secret hidden bastard child for WFVX. Mynetworktv.com doesn't even admit WFVX has MyNetwork programming.

EDIT: The WVII/WFVX vehicles have FOX22 and ABC7 on them as well. I don't think myNetwork is represented at all.

On WVII/WFVX homepage, down toward the bottom of the entry page, is a MyNetwork TV logo that links to the MyNetwork TV homepage. But that's about it.

On Wikipedia, they say it is "primary" Fox and "secondary" MyNetwork TV.

Joe

http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=231989&ac=PHnws
The Portland Press Herald has a story today on TWC (and Comcast) rate hikes. Here's a sidebar summary.

MAINE CABLE RATE HIKES

Time Warner Cable service package increases that took effect in January:

ALL THE BEST: Up 5.5 percent, to $140.45 plus fees. Includes digital cable, high-speed Internet and digital phone.

DIGITAL CABLE: 5 percent, to $62.95.

CLASSIC CABLE: 5 percent, to $54.75.

TALK AND SURF: Up 2 percent, to $83.95. Includes digital phone and high-speed Internet.

Rates for some services, including digital phone only and pay-per-view movies, are not going up.

COMCAST, another large cable company in southern Maine, is also increasing rates. The company would not disclose specific percentage increases for individual packages, but spokesman Marc Goodman said the "average" customer would pay 3.6 percent more this year.


We've discussed the lack of oversight on rates of cable companies previously on this thread. My belief is that they should be regulated by the PUC just as the power and phone companies are that use the public right of way to string wire on poles to our homes.

Dana

PS. The story quotes a customer towards the end with this statement:

Time Warner customer Tim Beidel of South Portland said he would switch from cable to satellite if he could. But he rents, and his landlord won't allow a dish.

I've written the reporter to tell him that the FCC has jurisdiction over outdoor dish antennas and the landlord cannot refuse to allow one to be installed. I encouraged the reporter to write a folllowup story to clarify the matter. Undoubtedly, the reporter will want to confirm with the FCC.

PS. The story quotes a customer towards the end with this statement:



I've written the reporter to tell him that the FCC has jurisdiction over outdoor dish antennas and the landlord cannot refuse to allow one to be installed. I encouraged the reporter to write a folllowup story to clarify the matter. Undoubtedly, the reporter will want to confirm with the FCC.

I tried citing that law to my landlord. His response: "Go ahead and put up the dish, but good luck getting the signal from the dish to your TV, because I'm not allowing you to drill any holes in my building."

I really want to switch so I can get USA, Sci-Fi and FX in HD but there is no way to install a dish without drilling any holes. So I guess I am at the mercy of crappy TWC until I can move this spring to an apartment that allows dishes, although they are few and far between.

I tried citing that law to my landlord. His response: "Go ahead and put up the dish, but good luck getting the signal from the dish to your TV, because I'm not allowing you to drill any holes in my building."

I really want to switch so I can get USA, Sci-Fi and FX in HD but there is no way to install a dish without drilling any holes. So I guess I am at the mercy of crappy TWC until I can move this spring to an apartment that allows dishes, although they are few and far between.

How does the TWC cable enter the building? It's possible that the sat installer can reuse that cable. Also, there is such a product as a "flat coax cable coupler" http://www.amazon.com/Parts-Express-Coaxial-Cable-Coupler/dp/B0002KR74A that can be run under a closed window. If you're really serious about installation, get an installer to visit. I see lots of dishes on apartment buildings in L-A with some pretty clever wire work.

In any event I doubt that the landlord can impose such a restriction legally. Did you call the FCC to inquire?

Lots of luck.

Dana

I tried citing that law to my landlord. His response: "Go ahead and put up the dish, but good luck getting the signal from the dish to your TV, because I'm not allowing you to drill any holes in my building."

I really want to switch so I can get USA, Sci-Fi and FX in HD but there is no way to install a dish without drilling any holes. So I guess I am at the mercy of crappy TWC until I can move this spring to an apartment that allows dishes, although they are few and far between.
If you are getting problems from your land load, here is the phone number of the FCC to call and report it.
Q: Who do I call if my town, community association or landlord is enforcing an invalid restriction?

A: Call the Federal Communications Commission at (888) CALLFCC (888-225-5322), which is a toll-free number, or 202-418-7096, which is not toll-free. Some assistance may also be available from the direct broadcast satellite company, broadband radio service provider, television broadcast station, or fixed wireless company whose service is desired.


This is quoted from the FCC Antenna regulations located at: http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html

Very nice help, Loudo38. Hmm. I see a forecast of 72° for you tomorrow. Might be 28° here tomorrow. A heat wave. :p

Dana

Very nice help, Loudo38. Hmm. I see a forecast of 72° for you tomorrow. Might be 28° here tomorrow. A heat wave. :p

Dana

Dana, it has cooled down to 72 lately, but we survived it, I just don't know about tonight, going down into the 40's. :eek:

Do you know if GWI has service in Cundy's Harbor? I am checking for my cousin, who has a summer place there.

Dana, it has cooled down to 72 lately, but we survived it, I just don't know about tonight, going down into the 40's. :eek:

Do you know if GWI has service in Cundy's Harbor? I am checking for my cousin, who has a summer place there.

Oh golly, better bundle up. ;)

I doubt that GWI offers DSL in Cundy's Harbor. Some folks there have the 725 telephone exchange, the central office for which is downtown Brunswick. Others have the 833 exchange, the central office for which is on Bailey Island. Both are too far away for DSL, I believe.

Dana

If you are getting problems from your land load, here is the phone number of the FCC to call and report it.
Q: Who do I call if my town, community association or landlord is enforcing an invalid restriction?

This is quoted from the FCC Antenna regulations located at: http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html

Actually, if you read the full page you linked, it says that landlords CAN restrict drilling holes through exterior wals or the roof. The landlord is probably within their rights. The only recourse is probably one of the flat ribbon cable. It also says that exterior walls and rooks are not covered. So if there is a balcony or patio it would be OK, but not to fix it on the side of the houise against the landlord's wishes.


I hadn't realized that the rights were so restricted.

Joe

Actually, if you read the full page you linked, it says that landlords CAN restrict drilling holes through exterior wals or the roof. The landlord is probably within their rights. The only recourse is probably one of the flat ribbon cable. It also says that exterior walls and rooks are not covered. So if there is a balcony or patio it would be OK, but not to fix it on the side of the houise against the landlord's wishes.


I hadn't realized that the rights were so restricted.

Joe

Many people around here mount them on patios, in a poured cement base.

Isn't this their "Dollar Saver" Maine Coupon sales show? Where they profile a local business then offer a discount coupon or gift certificate for sale?

No, 35.2 is the "Maine Visitor's Channel". It shows a loop of things to do in the Portland area, geared toward the hotel tourist crowd.

Really? Not even the basic package is required? No surcharge if you're not a TV customer? I was told I had to pay $49.20 for basic cable to keep cable internet at that point in time. Perhaps I was misinformed by one of the Comcast telephone reps. Oh well. I left and haven't looked back.

Anyway, thanks for the clarification.

Dana

A Comcast rep giving out bad information? That would never happen! :D

I pay $52.45 total w/tax. No cable TV at all. I've looked at GWI but they have told me it they cannot give me service in Topsham since there is no copper to my house, only fiber. Huh?!?

A Comcast rep giving out bad information? That would never happen! :D

I pay $52.45 total w/tax. No cable TV at all. I've looked at GWI but they have told me it they cannot give me service in Topsham since there is no copper to my house, only fiber. Huh?!?

It looks like GWI DSL service is very limited. I know I couldn't get it, because they told me I needed the service fed from two sides and our neighborhood has only one feed. I could get dial up from them, but not DSL. The only high speed I can get is TWC. But I will say, it is more expensive, but the service is fast and dependable.

It looks like GWI DSL service is very limited. I know I couldn't get it, because they told me I needed the service fed from two sides and our neighborhood has only one feed. I could get dial up from them, but not DSL. The only high speed I can get is TWC. But I will say, it is more expensive, but the service is fast and dependable.

From what little I know about DSL/ADSL, availability is limited by the wire distance from the central office (exchange switch house) - from three to six miles at most - to the premises and back again including right angle turns and meandering. Distance is not measured by how the crow flies. A loop is needed to account for downstream and upstream flow of data involving wire pairs on which voice can also be carried at a lower frequency. This technology grew out of POTS - plain old telephone service http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plain_old_telephone_service - and retains many of its characteristics.

I was at first incredulous about Fairpoint's claimed commitment to bring broadband to rural Maine, thinking that it would only be possible for those who happened to live close to the local exchange central office, as I do. But, apparently the technology is rapidly improving with the use of such devices as ADSL loop extenders http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL_loop_extender that can about double the distance to which service can extend.

GWI benefits from the ruling of the PUC that the telephone company open up access of its lines to other service providers. But, that may not mean that GWI gets access to the latest and greatest Verizon/Fairpoint equipment. Here on Bailey Island Verizon/Fairpoint can offer 7.1 DSL but GWI is limited to 3 MB DSL on a dry loop http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_loop.

Fairpoint made a big deal out of its commitment to bring broadband to rural Maine and the Public Advocate at the PUC intends to hold Fairpoint to it so we may see better broadband service in the future.

Dana

From what little I know about DSL/ADSL, availability is limited by the wire distance from the central office (exchange switch house) - from three to six miles at most - to the premises and back again including right angle turns and meandering. Distance is not measured by how the crow flies. A loop is needed to account for downstream and upstream flow of data involving wire pairs on which voice can also be carried at a lower frequency. This technology grew out of POTS - plain old telephone service http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plain_old_telephone_service - and retains many of its characteristics.

I was at first incredulous about Fairpoint's claimed commitment to bring broadband to rural Maine, thinking that it would only be possible for those who happened to live close to the local exchange central office, as I do. But, apparently the technology is rapidly improving with the use of such devices as ADSL loop extenders http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ADSL_loop_extender that can about double the distance to which service can extend.

GWI benefits from the ruling of the PUC that the telephone company open up access of its lines to other service providers. But, that may not mean that GWI gets access to the latest and greatest Verizon/Fairpoint equipment. Here on Bailey Island Verizon/Fairpoint can offer 7.1 DSL but GWI is limited to 3 MB DSL on a dry loop http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dry_loop.

Fairpoint made a big deal out of its commitment to bring broadband to rural Maine and the Public Advocate at the PUC intends to hold Fairpoint to it so we may see better broadband service in the future.

Dana
It was a loop issue with GWI, as the reason they couldn't give me DSL. When I called Fairpoint, they told me the same thing. The phone wiring of many places in the LA area doesn't allow the phone companies to supply DSL service. I have several family members in real heavy residential neighborhoods, and they can't get DSL either. I think the phone lines in the LA area, need to be updated. It is hard to believe that the phone wiring that far behind the times, in this day and age.

It was a loop issue with GWI, as the reason they couldn't give me DSL. When I called Fairpoint, they told me the same thing. The phone wiring of many places in the LA area doesn't allow the phone companies to supply DSL service. I have several family members in real heavy residential neighborhoods, and they can't get DSL either. I think the phone lines in the LA area, need to be updated. It is hard to believe that the phone wiring that far behind the times, in this day and age.

Without digging into past published documents, my recollection is that was one of the beefs about Verizon. There was a time when it promised Maine would get fiber optic cable statewide. Apparently in the late 80s-early 90s, it did update the network backbone with fiber running essentially up the I-95 corridor to Bangor. Which is what attracted/enabled several telephone call centers to locate in Maine in the 90's and in this decade. That and low prevailing wage rates. But, the wire system running off that backbone remains pretty antiquated.

The reality of that caused a lot of questioning as to whether Fairpoint can really do what it says it will do.

Of course stringing wire on wooden poles is pretty antiquated - period. In old tintype photos taken over a hundred years ago, we see wires on poles. A few communities - Columbia, MD. for one where we lived in the '70s and early '80s - have mandated that all wires be underground. We are told that would be impossible in Maine with its rocky soil. But, I see some developments in Maine with wires all underground. One of my daughters and her family live in one in Brunswick. The gas transmission lines are all underground. The local power utility on Monhegan has all its wires underground or on the surface - no poles. "Oh, but that's different," I'm told.

It sure is. ;)

Dana

Having trouble pulling in WCBB OTA since digital 17 to 10. How's reception elsewhere?

Wait...was today (Sunday) the day MPBN turned off their analog transmitters?

Before? :)
http://www.mpbn.net/MPBNInitiatives/DigitalTelevision/DTVFAQ/tabid/252/mid/1009/ctl/View/ItemId/38/Default.aspx

How does the TWC cable enter the building? It's possible that the sat installer can reuse that cable. Also, there is such a product as a "flat coax cable coupler" http://www.amazon.com/Parts-Express-Coaxial-Cable-Coupler/dp/B0002KR74A that can be run under a closed window. If you're really serious about installation, get an installer to visit. I see lots of dishes on apartment buildings in L-A with some pretty clever wire work.

In any event I doubt that the landlord can impose such a restriction legally. Did you call the FCC to inquire?

Lots of luck.

Dana

There is a way to use the existing cable wiring in a house now that DirecTV has introduced the new "Single Wire Multiswitch" dishes.

Put simply, a special multi switch is built into the dish, so that way only one single coax wire is needed to enter the house for full service. You then use some somewhat special splitters compatible with the multiswitch built into the dish, and you can then split the dish signal much the same way you do a regular cable tv signal.

There is a way to use the existing cable wiring in a house now that DirecTV has introduced the new "Single Wire Multiswitch" dishes.

Put simply, a special multi switch is built into the dish, so that way only one single coax wire is needed to enter the house for full service. You then use some somewhat special splitters compatible with the multiswitch built into the dish, and you can then split the dish signal much the same way you do a regular cable tv signal.
Here is a good explanation of how it works. This video is designed for installers and goes pretty much in depth but explains how the new multiswitch dishes work. The explanation is about half way through Part 1.
http://www.solidsignal.com/satellite/directv_dish_antenna_types.asp#video

Here's another good site with all the info you could want about the SWM stuff:

http://www.swm8.com/

Having trouble pulling in WCBB OTA since digital 17 to 10. How's reception elsewhere?

I'm located between the exit 47 interchange and the Animal Refuge League on Stroudwater Street. WCBB-DT was a stronger signal on UHF 17 compared to the signal on VHF 10. I see the license is presently for only 13.32 kW ERP. However, they have an application filed with the FCC to boost their ERP to 30KW using the same antenna height. I imagine that will make quite a difference in coverage.

Having trouble pulling in WCBB OTA since digital 17 to 10. How's reception elsewhere?
I'm unable to get any signal, with either a DB4 antenna, or a pair of rabbit ears. WCBB's analog signal reception was always poor here.

I was previously picking up WCBB's DTV signal clearly, when it was on UHF, with the DB4 antenna.

I'm located in South Portland.

I'm unable to get any signal, with either a DB4 antenna, or a pair of rabbit ears. WCBB's analog signal reception was always poor here.

I was previously picking up WCBB's DTV signal clearly, when it was on UHF, with the DB4 antenna.

I'm located in South Portland.

Welcome to the AVS Forum and this friendly thread of, by and for Mainahs.

What are you using for an OTA receiver? I recall when I was getting a signal OTA from an antenna when subscribing to DirecTV in the "old days" before we got locals in HD by satellite, that every once in a while I would have to rescan to find WGME Channel 13 HD because it had moved to a different sub-channel. (There's probably a better technical term but you get the idea.)

Have you done a rescan on whatever receiver/TV you're using for OTA reception?

Dana

Having trouble pulling in WCBB OTA since digital 17 to 10. How's reception elsewhere?

My reception has improved....was around 61% before and inconsistent, now around 79% and rock solid. What kind of antenna do you have?

On a side note, since the switch I can now pick up WMEA 26 - MPBN from Biddeford (broadcast on UHF 45). Couldn't do that before.

Have you done a rescan on whatever receiver/TV you're using for OTA reception?
I'm using the internal tuner in a Sony XBR970. I've rescanned a few times. I think I'm just in a bad spot for WCBB's VHF10 signal. It's the weakest signal for my location of all the major southern ME networks, according to the tvfool.com chart.

Not really a problem for me, as this is just a bedroom TV to fool around with OTA. I have cable hooked up to the main TV.

Anyone else having TWC HD issues...since about Thursday, the signal strength has dropped out. Getting pixels, etc. 528 isn't working at all. I hate watching the C's in non-HD!

Anyone else having TWC HD issues...since about Thursday, the signal strength has dropped out. Getting pixels, etc. 528 isn't working at all. I hate watching the C's in non-HD!

Could the cold weather have something to do with it? No problems here with D*. (Knock on wood.)

Dana

Could the cold weather have something to do with it? No problems here with D*. (Knock on wood.)

Dana
Maybe the electrons are having a hard time getting down the wire because of all the cold weather. :D

Seriously though, there have been some problems with DirecTV's new SWM dishes, in the cold weather. Those are the new dishes that you only need one wire to go to a DVR, instead of two. There have been a few reports that the LNBs have stopped working when it gets really cold. Not sure if any installers in Maine are using them. I know I asked for one when I had my system installed last summer and they told me they were not using them in Maine, yet.

Anyone else having TWC HD issues...since about Thursday, the signal strength has dropped out. Getting pixels, etc. 528 isn't working at all. I hate watching the C's in non-HD!
Have you tried rebooting the cable box? (just unplug/plug in the power cord.) If that doesn't fix it, I'd say one of the Cable Co.'s amplifiers may have bit the dust.

Anyone else having TWC HD issues...since about Thursday, the signal strength has dropped out. Getting pixels, etc. 528 isn't working at all. I hate watching the C's in non-HD!

Yes, the fiber optic cable has connectors between sections that are suppose to expand and contract with temperature changes. Connections that become borderline lead to reduced signal levels or even outages. I noticed the same problem Friday morning. Analog channels showed brief periods where they became snowy. If I switched to a digital channel, via the set top box or built in QAM tuner, that channel would drop out whenever the analog signal became a bit snowy. Most of the digital channels are at higher frequencies and are located above the analog channels. The higher the frequency the greater the signal loss. So, you'll often notice reduced signal level arriving at your home with degradation of the digital service first. My satellite receiver and LNB had no issue with the cold. I've noticed no problems with TWC signal levels since we've warmed up above zero.

According to a WBZ-TV press release http://wbztv.com/press/WBZ.TV.and.2.914003.html

Boston, Mass. – Wednesday, January 21, 2009 - WBZ-TV and TV38 (WSBK-TV) today announced that the stations have entered into an exclusive television rights agreement with the New England Patriots and Kraft Sports Productions to broadcast "Patriots All Access," "Totally Patriots," and any non-network preseason Patriots games. The partnership is effective immediately....

This apparently means the end of the pre-season PATS non-network broadcasts on WMTW-TV channel 8, a sister station to WCVB-TV in Boston which had carried the pre-season PATS games. WBZ-TV is a CBS-owned and operated station. Does this mean that WGME-TV channel 13 (CBS) will now carry the PATS non-network pre-season games?

I hope so!

Dana

NESN's expanded Spring Training coverage is discussed here http://www.bostonsportsmedia.com/2009/01/nesn-unveils-expanded-spring-training-coverage

Regarding Spring Training games:

NESN’s spring training game schedule will feature nine games beginning Wednesday, February 25th at 7:00 PM when the Red Sox play the Minnesota Twins at Hammond Stadium and concluding with a game in New York against the Mets at their new stadium Citi Field on April 3, 2009 at 6:00 PM.

No indication if they will be in HD. Last year they weren't. :(

Dana

NESN's expanded Spring Training coverage is discussed here http://www.bostonsportsmedia.com/2009/01/nesn-unveils-expanded-spring-training-coverage

Regarding Spring Training games:



No indication if they will be in HD. Last year they weren't. :(

Dana
That is more than they had last year.

No indication if they will be in HD. Last year they weren't. :(
Dana
It doesn't look like they will be according to the schedule on the NESN web site. They show the regular games with (HD) but the pre season games have nothing behind them.
http://www.nesn.com/content/redsox/schedule.aspx

I inquired if Fox23 had plans for any OTA sub-channels. Here's their response:

Hello, Not as of this time, we have had discussions of what to possibly do with the sub channels, No action will be taken until we figure out what programming to purchase.

Thanks,

Dave Cox
Chief Engineer
WPFO Fox 23

Finally made the switch from CC to D*. My install was yesterday. I must say this is wayyyy better. Love the additional HD channels and the software on the DVR is much better. I got the HR-23 HD DVR. The only issue I've had is the ethernet port on the receiver does not seem to be functional. After spending an hour on the phone with support today and walking through all their troubleshooting steps they're sending me out a new receiver. Won't have the On Demand going til I get that. Glad I made the switch.

Getting MPBN - antenna problem - now. Great music today but the HD was horrible, not in HD.
10-2 used to broadcast correctly, but now. Crossroads was a pixelated mess.

Finally made the switch from CC to D*. My install was yesterday. I must say this is wayyyy better. Love the additional HD channels and the software on the DVR is much better. I got the HR-23 HD DVR. The only issue I've had is the ethernet port on the receiver does not seem to be functional. After spending an hour on the phone with support today and walking through all their troubleshooting steps they're sending me out a new receiver. Won't have the On Demand going til I get that. Glad I made the switch.

Are you sure you were using the right ethernet port? It has 2 - ethernet 1 is to connect the DVR to your network. Ethernet 2 is a "daisy chain" port that will let you hook another device to the network "through" the HR23.

http://hr20.dbstalk.com/HR23-700%20First%20Look.pdf

Anyone think WCSH will upgrade to a dolby-digital 5.1 capable encoder before the Super Bowl?



Yeah, I didn't think so either. :(

Anyone think WCSH will upgrade to a dolby-digital 5.1 capable encoder before the Super Bowl?

Yeah, I didn't think so either. :(

Didn't they say it would happen when they drop analog transmission? (And not a minute before.) :rolleyes:

Dana

Yeah I was trying with the top port, Ethernet 1. I did actually try with both, but the top one is the one that's supposed to work.

Are you sure you were using the right ethernet port? It has 2 - ethernet 1 is to connect the DVR to your network. Ethernet 2 is a "daisy chain" port that will let you hook another device to the network "through" the HR23.

http://hr20.dbstalk.com/HR23-700%20First%20Look.pdf

The digital switch is "on." http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/01/28/AR2009012801883.html?hpid=topnews

Dana

The digital switch is "on." http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/01/28/AR2009012801883.html?hpid=topnews

Dana

That is good news, especially for OTA viewers wanting to get FOX in HD in Maine. It's also good for cable HD viewers too, since cable companies are mandated to wait until after the DTV switch before moving channels from analog to digital. Once Time Warner and other cable companies can do that and free up some bandwidth MAYBE we will start seeing more HD channels.

Is any station doing local news in HD yet? I know none were when we left in October. Hope some are when we get back to Maine. Hoping the end of analog will bring more local news in HD.

Is any station doing local news in HD yet? I know none were when we left in October. Hope some are when we get back to Maine. Hoping the end of analog will bring more local news in HD.

Nope, the closest we have is Channel 13's "Doppler HD" which isn't HD. I wouldn't hold your breath for any locally produced HD coming anytime soon at all.

One commentator, Phil Swann, thinks that this vote won't stand, that the Democrats are not inclined let the bill that would postpone the digital switch become the President's first defeat since he supported it. http://www.tvpredictions.com/housedtv012909.htm

So, in the immortal words of Yogi Berra, "It ain't over 'til it's over." http://www.quotedb.com/quotes/1303

I have no horse in this race since I am on D*. I'm just reporting the news.

Dana

With the status of the current economy you would think that congress would have more important issues, than wasting time trying to postpone something people have had about 4 years to prepare for. :confused:

With the status of the current economy you would think that congress would have more important issues, than wasting time trying to postpone something people have had about 4 years to prepare for. :confused:

I tend to agree. Those folks who aren't ready by Feb. 17 won't be ready three months from now either. It's called procrastination. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Procrastination

For a behavior to be classified as procrastination, it must be counterproductive, needless, and delaying.

Dana

It's also good for cable HD viewers too, since cable companies are mandated to wait until after the DTV switch before moving channels from analog to digital. Once Time Warner and other cable companies can do that and free up some bandwidth MAYBE we will start seeing more HD channels.

Time Warner has mentioned a number of times that they have no intention of getting rid of analog service for the foreseeable future. They see no set-top-box (which is needed for OTA ATSC and satellite TV) as a big draw for people with NTSC sets.

Joe

Time Warner has mentioned a number of times that they have no intention of getting rid of analog service for the foreseeable future.

Joe
Right, it would be a big expense for them to have to spend money on digital converter boxes, for all of the analog TVs, still in use by their customers. It is easier to convert the digital signal to analog, at the cable head ends, and send it out on the cable the way they currently do. I think some day it will come but it will take time.

It's back. Senate voted yes and it's back to the house.

With the status of the current economy you would think that congress would have more important issues, than wasting time trying to postpone something people have had about 4 years to prepare for. :confused:

Follow the money. It has little to do with helping the consumer and is mostly about bandwidth and who gets it. Think presidential advisers. Hurts Verizon and helps sprint/nextel.

Right, it would be a big expense for them to have to spend money on digital converter boxes, for all of the analog TVs, still in use by their customers. It is easier to convert the digital signal to analog, at the cable head ends, and send it out on the cable the way they currently do. I think some day it will come but it will take time.

I don't think he was saying all of the analog channels would go digital, but that some/a bunch of the non-local analog channels would be moved to the digital tier.

That's just a guess, though.

I think Fox 23 will extend analog.

Response to my question of Fox 23's intention on transition date:
What is the plan for February - will it be digital or analog til June?

Thanks

Thank you for the email. We will will not be making a decision until the bill is drafted and we know what our options are.

Regards,

Torrey Ham
WPFO FOX23

I don't think he was saying all of the analog channels would go digital, but that some/a bunch of the non-local analog channels would be moved to the digital tier.

That's just a guess, though.

Time Warner has said that they are leaving basic/analog cable as-is for the meantime. In other words, the idea that the OTA digital conversion will allow cable companies to dump analog and go to digital only service opening up bandwidth for more HD content is likely not going to come to fruition any time soon. It may be true that cable companies will not be required to provide analog service after the conversion takes place, but it seems they have no plans to change. Some operators (Verizon) are going all digital. As far as I nunderstand it, Comcast & Time Warner have no plans in that direction.

Joe

Yeah I was trying with the top port, Ethernet 1. I did actually try with both, but the top one is the one that's supposed to work.

Actually, the Ports seemed to be switched on this unit as many have reported that the bottom port works and the top one doesn't.

I'm having D* coming Tuesday to upgrade to HD. When my dish was first installed there was an issue with the 119 satellite, so the installer mounted the dish on my barn roof. I had an install for the middle of January, but the guy said he couldn't get to the dish(too much snow???). That's why the Tuesday install. I've cleared the snow(it wasn't that bad), but I'm worried I'll get the same response.
Do I need the 119 satellite? I read on other forums that it is not needed anymore. Can anyone help out with this? I really don't want to change providers.

BTW, I live in Cornish.

I'm having D* coming Tuesday to upgrade to HD. When my dish was first installed there was an issue with the 119 satellite, so the installer mounted the dish on my barn roof. I had an install for the middle of January, but the guy said he couldn't get to the dish(too much snow???). That's why the Tuesday install. I've cleared the snow(it wasn't that bad), but I'm worried I'll get the same response.
Do I need the 119 satellite? I read on other forums that it is not needed anymore. Can anyone help out with this? I really don't want to change providers.

BTW, I live in Cornish.

I believe there are a few MPEG2 HD channels on 119, but the MPEG4 versions of them (which look better and take up less DVR space) are located on one of the two new satellites.

Does anyone think I can talk the installer into putting the new dish on the side of the barn, where it's more accessible? Are the local HD channels on this bird?

Does anyone think I can talk the installer into putting the new dish on the side of the barn, where it's more accessible? Are the local HD channels on this bird?
That will all depend on the line of site to the satellites. In Maine you usually have to get the dish mounted up high, in order to get a good shot to the south to see all the satellites.

In Florida my dish is low on the side of my house, with a row of trees behind the house, and still see the satellite, because I am way south. In Maine I have no trees or hills around my house and the only way it can see the satellites is from my roof.

But if your barn faces south and it is on a hill with a good southern exposure they may be able to put it on the side of the barn. Also another thing to look at, if the barn is away from your house, you need to take into consideration the lines from the dish to the receiver(s), in the house. It is winter and the ground is frozen.

The Portland/Auburn locals are on DirecTV 11 at 99.2 degrees.

It's back. Senate voted yes and it's back to the house.

Right. The House vote apparently will be Tuesday. The last time it required a two-thirds vote to pass. This time under regular rules, a majority vote will be sufficient.

According to Democratic Rep. Mike Michaud of Maine’s 2nd Congressional District, some 5,600 Mainers remain on a waiting list for digital converter box coupons... http://www.bangornews.com/detail/98298.html


Dana