Dana...

Always there with the answers. Any ideas what the "upgrades equipment" will do?

Shek

Shek,

Many thanks for the nice words. Actually I don't know very much. But the internet is a great place to learn. I try to find out the answers to questions I or others have and bring them to the thread, preferably with a source so anyone can follow up. Being retired, I have more time to satisfy my curiosity and I learn a thing or two in the process.

Almost certainly this upgrade has to do with the headend of SusCom's cable system. The headend is typically where all the satellite dishes and electronics are located for reception of signals and processing for distribution. In SusCom Brunswick's case, the dishes are right next to their building on the Old Bath Road. Wikipedia has a lengthy description here of a cable system headend http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cable_television_headend

In that description we learn that Comcast has its own headend service called "HITS (Headend In The Sky)" with its own web site! http://www.hits.com/ All of this provides more info than we need to know to make an intelligent guess about what's happening at SusCom Brunswick. They are installing the equipment needed to deliver the expanded Comcast television lineup. So it's good news for viewers.

Dana

Shek,

Many thanks for the nice words. Actually I don't know very much. But the internet is a great place to learn. I try to find out the answers to questions I or others have and bring them to the thread, preferably with a source so anyone can follow up. Being retired, I have more time to satisfy my curiosity and I learn a thing or two in the process.

Almost certainly this upgrade has to do with the headend of SusCom's cable system. The headend is typically where all the satellite dishes and electronics are located for reception of signals and processing for distribution. In SusCom Brunswick's case, the dishes are right next to their building on the Old Bath Road. Wikipedia has a lengthy description here of a cable system headend http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cable_television_headend

In that description we learn that Comcast has its own headend service called "HITS (Headend In The Sky)" with its own web site! http://www.hits.com/ All of this provides more info than we need to know to make an intelligent guess about what's happening at SusCom Brunswick. They are installing the equipment needed to deliver the expanded Comcast television lineup. So it's good news for viewers.

Dana

Dana, do you have any idea how to find out the status of negotiations between Adelphia / Time Warner and WABI and WGME about allowing the carriage of the CBS digital signal on the Augusta cable system? Maybe the only way is to get the local newspaper to pose the question on behalf of the people that are interested. They could probably get a better answer than an individual.

I would also be interested in an update on the status of negotiations, if any, on Time Warner carrying channel 13 HD (CBS) in the Portland area. Have discussions just stalled out?

Stan & BL,

I'll see what I can find out. I think this is an issue between Sinclair Broadcasting (WGME) and TWC that transcends our local stations. WABI I know less about.

Stan, I tried to interest our local Times Record managing editor to ask some questions of SusCom several weeks ago on behalf of the readers in the mid-coast area (who are also SusCom subs), pointing out that the York, PA. newspaper has covered the evolving story much better than the Times Record. I never received even the courtesy of a reply, so you can see the clout I have.

But we did see a story out of the KJ/Waterville paper on the Adelphia transition so maybe they would be more interested in asking more questions on behalf of their readers in Central Maine.

Dana

Stan

Back on Post #958 (How times flies!) I said that I couldn't find any description on the TWC web site of what channels one gets with a CableCard on TWC. I was wrong. I found it today here http://www.timewarnercable.com/newengland/products/cablecard.html Of course they emphasize what more you get with a stb but at least there is some info. Sorry I missed it earlier. I'll go back and update Post #958, too,

Dana

Stan and BL,

WABI updated its WABI TV5 programming page about 5 PM today. http://www.wabi.tv/story.asp?1584

Included at the bottom of the page is this comment.

"Q: Can I watch WABI-TV5 Digital on cable?

"Not at this time. However, we are hopeful that we can come to mutually agreeable terms with local cable operators. ..." This may be the same boilerplate as has been on the page in the past.

There doesn't seem to be any news on recent negotiations between TWC and Sinclair Broadcasting or WABI (more specifically Diversified Communications which owns WABI, has Portland offices and is in turn owned by the Hildreth family). http://www.divcom.com/

It does seem to me that the rollout of Sinclair O&O local station HD channels on D* via spotbeam in Maine and nationally is going to put a crimp in TWC's refusal to pay Sinclair for carriage. Up to now TWC may have thought that viewers had no alternative except for OTA. The situation is changing. Also, TWC nationally will acquire some Comcast cable systems that already carry Sinclair HD channels. It will be difficult for TWC to drop those channels without becoming very unpopular in those local markets - and possibly chasing business to D*.

The fact that Comcast and D* have signed carriage agreements with Sinclair does not leave TWC in a good negotiating or competitive position. IMHO. But, as Sen. Mitchell said some years ago about the Middle East dispute, the parties will come to an agreement when they decide it is in their mutual interests to do so. And not before.

It appears that WABI is doing a mini-Sinclair hold out and as a family-owned station, it doesn't fear stockholder rebellion. When TWC finally agrees to pay Sinclair - and I think that's inevitable - can WABI be far behind?

Sorry to bore you with my observations. I'd like to hear what others think.

Dana

I hope that the stations don't cave in and start to pay WABI or WGME. That would be like the newspaper paying the local hardware store for carrying its advertisements. Certainly, the newspaper would have to charge a higher price to its customers in order to cover the cost. I don't want to pay more for the cable.

When there are more digital cable customers out there and WABI and WGME are not reaching them, the equation changes and the television stations will not be able to wait to get their signals in front of more eyeballs (and pocketbooks).

I hope that the stations don't cave in and start to pay WABI or WGME. That would be like the newspaper paying the local hardware store for carrying its advertisements. Certainly, the newspaper would have to charge a higher price to its customers in order to cover the cost. I don't want to pay more for the cable.

When there are more digital cable customers out there and WABI and WGME are not reaching them, the equation changes and the television stations will not be able to wait to get their signals in front of more eyeballs (and pocketbooks).

Stan,

Comcast reached a national agreement with Sinclair last year. The elephant in cable land already caved. I'm not sure that the dollar amount involved would necessitate a rate hike by itself. But, obviously cable co's are concerned about competition from satellite and D* has a carriage agreement with Sinclair. So, if you are TWC and want to retain your customer base, you settle. Sooner or later. I think. :)

Dana

Here's a story from today's BDN written by Mal Leary from the State House. http://www.bangornews.com/news/templates/?a=137774

The story reviews pending legislation, etc., but also quotes TWC Regional Vice President Melinda Poore on the transition:

"... Poore said TW is moving forward to consolidate the Adelphia systems into the existing Time Warner structure in Maine. She said an early change would be to establish a call center in Portland that will hire 150 people to handle calls from Maine customers.

"She said mailings are going to current Adelphia customers explaining the change, and the company will make a significant effort to expand its nonvideo services such as broadband and phone service to all of its new customers.

"The expanded Time Warner presence will have about 280,000 subscribers in Maine.

"'We can't do everything we would like to do on August 1st,' Poore said. 'It will take time to make the changes we think will be for the better. But we will be making them.'"

Dana

I have written Mal Leary, who is the Capitol News Service and an acquaintance of long standing, to see if I can interest him in digging into the TWC-Adelphia stalement over carrying CBS HD. I said in part

"... Lots of folks in the T-W Portland DMA and the Adelphia area it will absorb on Aug. 1 wonder when this stalemate will end. The situation illustrates just what you report AG Steve Rowe fears. Monopoly self-interest trumping public interest."

Let's hope it grabs his attention.

Dana

Hi folks,

Mal Leary wrote back this AM.

"Good to hear from you again. This is an interesting angle. I have two
antennas at my house here in Augusta, one pointed south and one north so I
get both WABI and WGME HD with no problem.

"But for folks expecting it on their cable, it is an issue."

I reminded him that some folks have trees or terrain blocking OTA signals. Also, renters and condo dwellers may not be able to mount OTA antennas.

Anyway, let's hope he follows up on the current state of negotiations.

Dana

Hi folks,

Just spotted this item here http://www.tvpredictions.com/directvhddvr072506.htm

"Washington, D.C. (July 25, 2006) -- DIRECTV has once again delayed the launch of its new High-Definition TV DVR. ...

...

"DIRECTV says the HD Digital Video Recorder now won't be available until the Fall.

"The satcaster initially said the HD DVR would be available in the spring of this year. But it changed that to the summer; then the end of the summer; now it's the 'Fall.'"

Dana

Hi there,

Here's a news story dated 7/25/06 on the Adelphia takeover by TWC. While it comes out of central Ohio, I think it reflects TWC's corporate approach as well as the realities of such a huge undertaking. It also seems to reflect what's been happening (or not happening) with the Comcast takeover of SusCom Brunswick.

Here's a few paragraphs. The entire story is here http://www.centralohio.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/B9/20060725/NEWS01/607250301/1002&template=B9

"NEWARK - As Time Warner Cable acquires Adelphia Communications Corp. at the end of the month, subscribers should see the same channels, rates and billing procedure - at least for a while, the company says.

"And, Time Warner Cable confirmed most jobs within Adelphia's infrastructure will remain, despite the takeover.

"Time Warner declined to release more details about new services, rate changes and jobs affected by the acquisition until next week, citing legal reasons.

"The only immediate changes customers will notice around the end of the month will be minor, like the Time Warner logo on their television screens and bills.

"'There won't be very many immediate changes because we will need to convert billing systems,' said Mary Jo Green, vice president of public affairs for the Time Warner Cable Mid-Ohio Division. 'Until then, (customers) will still use the same billing services and payment systems as before.'

"Adelphia filed for bankruptcy in 2002 when several company executives were convicted of conspiracy, bank fraud and securities fraud after looting the company and cheating investors out of billions of dollars.

"New management tentatively sold the company to Time Warner and Comcast in April 2005, and the takeover is expected to be completed on paper by July 31.

"Next week, Time Warner Cable plans to release details about upcoming rates, changes in service and new services offered. ... "

Dana

Here's a sage observation from another forum about cable internet that I think all of us in Maine involved in the changeover from one cable co. to another could benefit from reading, in answer to the question of how much change, how fast, etc., for cable TV svc and internet.

"Believe it or not, but not a whole lot will change. The local infrastructure will be the same. The local technicians and call center personel will be the same too. New speeds won't be immediate either. If Adelphia could have delivered them effectively before, they would. Over time, management and policies will trickle down but a LOT of the existing people will remain in place. The infrastructure will be built up a bit better, and then you will start to see changes in speed. Price probably won't change immediately either so as not to rock the boat too much with the transition.

"A cable company buying another doesn't magically change everything about a local system overnight. If you had good service, you'll still have good service. If it sucked before, it will still suck.

"FusorFodder" http://www.dslreports.com/shownews/76702

Dana

I've sent an email to Andy Neff who writes a "Sports: On the Air" column for the Bangor Daily News, pointing out that the stalemate over carriage of CBS HD stymies cable reception of the Patriots in HD to 85 percent of the cable TV market in Maine. He just wrote a column on the Patriots radio coverage in Maine for the upcoming season here http://www.bangornews.com/news/templates/?a=137344&z=147%20class=

Let's hope he is interested enough to dig into the current state of negotiations.

Dana

Hello all,

Thanks to a sharp-eyed poster on the Bangor thread, I can report that TWC will pull WABI SD, and UPN and the WB channels off the Adelphia system as of Aug. 1! Hard ball time!

Here's WABI's version of the story.

"(WABI) Thousands of viewers in Eastern and Central Maine could be blocked from watching shows on WABI TV5, UPN and the WB, starting August 1st. Time Warner Cable company will take over for Adelphia cable that day and, right now, CBS, UPN and the WB won't be on the channel lineup." More here http://wabi.tv/story.asp?13577

Dana

He also read an adv't in the BDN yesterday.

"Read in the paper ... that with the transition we will lose 2 channel ESPN-U and the NFL Network. Doesn't Adelphia carry the NFL Network in HD? I believe its happens August 1st."

Dana

I just posted this on the Bangor thread.

The idea that a cable company would be expected to compensate a television company for extending the viewing of its signal seem illogical to me. I know, I know. The signal has value to the cable company, therefore, why shouldn't they pay for that value?

Well, the television signal consists for the most part of paid vendor advertising and those vendors pay the television company at rates based upon the number of eyeballs reached. Cable carriage increases the number of eyeballs reached, therefore, why shouldn't the television company pay a portion of the resulting increased vendor revenue that they collect to the cable company for making that increased revenue possible?

OK, so the television company doesn't want to share their increased wealth with the cable company! So, then, why not give the cable company a great big hug and kiss for being there to extend their signal to a greater number of eyeballs? You would think that their gratitude for the increased coverage would know no bounds!

But, oh no! The television company is acutely aware that, should the cable company hold out until the very end, they will be able to simply inform the cable company that they "must carry" their signal whether they want to or not.

Such a deal!!!

A poster on the Bangor thread says "WABI and TW apparently reached a three-year deal late last night, 7/28/06. I thought it all smelled of brinksmanship."

See the next post for the details.

Dana

"THURSDAY, WE TOLD YOU ABOUT THE POSSIBLITY OF WABI TV 5 BEING REMOVED FROM THE ADELPHIA CABLE SYSTEM WHEN TIME WARNER TAKES OVER FOR ADELPHIA ON AUGUST FIRST...

"WE ARE NOW PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT WABI AND TIME WARNER HAVE REACHED A LONG-TERM DEAL THAT MEANS TV5 WILL CONTINUE TO BE CARRIED BY THE CABLE SYSTEM...

"THE DEAL WAS REACHED JUST MOMENTS AGO AND RESULTS IN A THREE YEAR EXTENSION OF ALL CURRENT CHANNEL POSITIONS OF WABI-TV5 ON ADELPHIA, WHICH BECOMES TIME WARNER ON TUESDAY...

"TIME WARNER WILL ALSO PICK UP WABI'S NEW AFFILIATE, THE CW, WHEN THE NETWORK IS LAUNCHED IN SEPTEMBER...THE CW WILL OCCUPY THE SAME CHANNEL AS THE CURRENT WB 100-PLUS SERVICE IN THE BANGOR TELEVISION MARKET... "

More here http://wabi.tv/story.asp?13589 The all caps style is in the original release.

The story citing the impasse has been pulled. It no longer exists. :rolleyes:

I note that the agreement references "all current channel positions" so I take that to mean that this agreement does not get WABI CBS HD on the Adelphia central and eastern Maine systems. :(

Dana

He also read an adv't in the BDN yesterday.

"Read in the paper ... that with the transition we will lose 2 channel ESPN-U and the NFL Network. Doesn't Adelphia carry the NFL Network in HD? I believe its happens August 1st."

Dana

The implications of this comment didn't hit me until I realized that TWC Portland doesn't carry either channel. Then I found this piece "NFL, cable operators square off" here http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/mccarthy/2006-07-27-weekend_x.htm that indicates that TWC and the NFL are jousting over carriage of the NFL Network in SD! Yee Gods!

Anyway, the liklihood of carriage of these two channels (I'm not familiar with ESPN-U) on the former Adelphia systems on/after Aug. 1 is not good. And we're not even talking about NFL Network HD which is probably also a casualty.

So much for all these predictions about "no lineup change" at the time of takeover.

Dana

Another story here http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6357446.html?display=Breaking+News confirms that Maine's Adelphia systems are in the crosshairs.

Here's the lead paragraphs.

"Time Warner Cable and the NFL Network are strapping on their respective helmets in anticipation of a nasty carriage dispute.

"The operator may punt the network away from systems owned by Adelphia Communications that it is acquiring, including those in such National Football League markets as Buffalo, N.Y.; Cleveland; and Dallas.

"In response, the network -- which added an eight-game, late-season primetime package -- is preparing a multimillion-dollar ad campaign to run throughout the pro football season if necessary against Time Warner, Cablevision Systems, Bright House Networks and other cable operators that are not carrying the 41 million-subscriber channel.

"Time Warner is considering dropping NFL Network from systems in Buffalo, Cleveland, Los Angeles, the Carolinas and Maine that are currently carrying the service as early as Aug. 1, following the expected July 31 closing of Time Warner Inc.’s and Comcast’s purchase of Adelphia, according to sources at both parties.

"Time Warner, which doesn't have a corporate deal with the network, placed ads in newspapers within those Adelphia markets Wednesday, alerting subscribers that NFL Network could be one of several networks either added or dropped with the ownership change."

This is a game of chicken.

Dana

The CW Network will be a digital transmission by WABI, I believe, using the frequency allocated to WABI for its HD signal as well. It is my suspicion that the agreement might include all of its digital signal including HD. It does seem as if the announcement would have included this information if it applied, but it is my understanding that WABI is going to transmit the CW as a sug-channel of the digital frequency.

By the way, I consider the NFL network a non-entity as I go up and down the HD dial. The games themselves will / would be great to have available as they happen, otherwise, the network is a big nothing to me. I like watching the NFL as the games are played about as much as anyone. The rest of the time it is a big fat zero in terms of interest level. That means that maybe 24 hours of the year would hold some interest for me. It's hard to believe that even the best fan could get more than 100 hours a year out of that network. It seems like a waste of broadcast spectrum. I would not pine over its loss to my cable system.

The CW Network will be a digital transmission by WABI, I believe, using the frequency allocated to WABI for its HD signal as well. It is my suspicion that the agreement might include all of its digital signal including HD. It does seem as if the announcement would have included this information if it applied, but it is my understanding that WABI is going to transmit the CW as a sug-channel of the digital frequency.

Stan54,

WABI's statement about "The CW is coming to Eastern & Central Maine" here http://www.wabi.tv/story.asp?10564 indicates that:

"TV5 will broadcast The CW over a secondary digital channel, continuing to offer a simulcast of its analog channel programming on its primary digital channel, including CBS network programming in high definition as available, and the full schedule of local and syndicated shows on WABI TV5."

So, I don't think that CBS in HD on its primary digital channel is in the deal. I hope I'm wrong.

Dana

I seems odd to me that WABI and TWC would agree to the carriage of WABI analog and digital secondary channels, but not the digital primary channel. I am not sure that TWC would agree to that without an agreement on the primary digital channel. Keeping the CW off the cable would put pressure on WABI. Surely, WABI cannot impose mandatory carriage of a secondary digital channel without agreeing to carriage of the primary digital channel.

The only thing that makes me think otherwise is that WABI is not trumpeting an agreement with the cable company for carriage of the primary digital channel. ............ Something is missing here.

CW network being carried by WABI this fall? Could this be why 35 and 51 had to be powered down? Just a note, I don't get Dolby Digital from WABI on HD programs but do get it on WGME. Can they be that selective? Bangor post indicates it's a MANUAL switch?

lilcasino just posted this clarification on the Bangor thread.

"emailed WABI on HD channel on Time Warner and got this reply

"We had to table discussions involving digital carriage, as this was among
many issues that we we did not see eye-to-eye on. We both felt it was
important to get the basic tier services squared away for all TWC
subscribers, so we focused on that, and agreed to continue discussion on
these other issues.

"Currently, we plan to broadcast The CW in standard def only, as we need
more of the currently operable spectrum to maintain CBS in HD, so, for
now, Our CW will not be in HD at all - let alone on cable. Of course, as
we continue to upgrade our digital investment, we do plan to have HD for
The CW, as well, and we WOULD like to be on cable in HD with both
channels. Just have some things to work out, and we're continuing talks
on this and some other matters that we had to set aside in the short term.
Thanks for the question and the interest. I'll make sure upper management
sees this as we continue discussions with TWC and other carriers.

"Steve Hiltz
"Program Director"

The NFL Network has fired back at TWC and some other cable cos according to this piece in the 7/28/06 issue of USA Today "NFL pushes NFL Network on cable operators" here http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2006-07-27-nfl-network_x.htm

Here's a particularly vitriolic volley "'We think it's asinine that Time Warner (the nation's No. 2 cable provider) carries 12 shopping channels and 50 other channels you don't want — but can't find room for one dedicated to the most popular sport in this country,' Palansky says. 'We're replacing the kid gloves with bare knuckles.'"

Perhaps more pertinent is this comment. "If the cable providers don't sign up, the NFL will urge consumers to switch to satellite TV operators that carry the channel, NFL Network spokesman Seth Palansky says."

Regardless of whether one watches the NFL Network a lot, a little or not at all, I am in favor of viewer choice. I hope the Adelphia systems keep everything that they had before the takeover plus get even more channels in the future. That's not too much to expect. IMHO.

Dana

There's an interesting NYT article on the takeover here http://www.nytimes.com/2006/07/31/technology/31adelphia.html?_r=2&oref=slogin&ref=business&pagewanted=print&oref=slogin

Dana

Tonight, DD on WABI. 28.5 SNR. 9:18pm 2 1/2 men WABI DD no, WGME DD yes.

Huh?

I called Suscom today and they said it'll be switching to Comcast within 30 days and that the rates won't be going up this year.

I read earlier today that SusCom systems in the York, PA area had been turned over to TWC by Comcast. Now it appears that the same applies to the SusCom Brunswick MSO.

Using this web page http://www.twcusoon.com/ and punching in a Brunswick ZIP or one of the other 11 communities in the SusCom Maine system, we now get this message.

"Thanks to a recent shift in cable coverage areas, you're now a Time Warner Cable customer. For the most part, you won't have to do a thing. You can just sit back and enjoy a new and improved cable service."

SusCom's channel carrying WGME CBS HD is dark although the on screen Guide still lists it. The same with The Tube Music channel. I think it isn't a coincidence. My chance of seeing the Pats in HD on CBS this fall has gone down the drain, I'm afraid. :mad:

Dana

PS. On the other hand, the NFL Network is still up. But, that's consistent with TWC Portland. It's only on the former Adelphia systems that TWC is yanking NFL Network.

Dana,

Don't fret. According to the Time Warner Cumberland County channel lineup, NESN is on channel 527! Who needs the Patriots when the Sox will be playing well into October, then you've got hot stove baseball. It actually will be very interesting to see how this all plays out. Thanks for the info.

Go Sox!

It looks like the comcast website has been fixed. I put in my address today and it said that the address was unavailable. I think the problem yesterday was a data problem and not a change in cable provider.


Chris

It looks like the comcast website has been fixed. I put in my address today and it said that the address was unavailable. I think the problem yesterday was a data problem and not a change in cable provider.


Chris

Chris,

As much as I want to believe it, I'm not sure. I tried the TWC link above just now and it still claims that the SusCom town ZIPs are in their territory. Using the Comcast lineup locator and using public addresses from the SusCom franchise authorities web page, it claims that Topsham, Freeport, Durham, etc. are now with Adelphia. But as you say, some other addresses in Brunswick, Harpswell, etc., are "unknown."

Dana

TWC has posted an FAQ page here http://www.twcusoon.com/Sites/newengland/Faq.aspx# for systems joining TWC. It includes this note regarding HD.

"Will HDTV be available?

"At the time of transition the NFL Network will no longer be available in HD. All other HD services will remain the same."

Dana

I called Suscom today and they said it'll be switching to Comcast within 30 days and that the rates won't be going up this year.

I just called SusCom cust svc and the rep said that Comcast would be keeping the Brunswick system and completing the conversion within 30 days.

Still no WGME CBS in HD this AM. Hmm.

Called SusCom cust svc again, this time trying Sales. A CSR in the midwest answered (Comcast?) and I outlined the confusion. He insisted that SusCom Brunswick continues to be a Comcast property. Guess we'lll just have to wait and see.

Dana

It looks like the comcast website has been fixed. I put in my address today and it said that the address was unavailable. I think the problem yesterday was a data problem and not a change in cable provider.


Chris

There is similar confusion in the York, PA. area, HQ for SusCom. A couple of quotes from this web site http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=69504&page=2 yesterday.

"I called Adelphia for my area. I asked if my area was going to Comcast or Time Warner. The CSR was adament that it was going to Comcast. I mentioned what the website said, so he punched in my actual address and confirmed that it was going to Time Warner instead."

...

"The comcast website is now different. With York zip codes and addresses I now get the message:

"We're Sorry We are unable to find a match in our system for the address and/or ZIP Code you entered. Go to www.thisiscable.com or call 866-49Cable to reach the cable company serving your area!

"I entered an address from the Suscom territory and it sent me back to Comcast's website, which then sent me back to thisiscable.
I entered an address from the Adelphia territory and it sent me to Adelphia's website.
The York Daily Record address ends up with the website saying it didn't know where it goes." (Yesterday the address = Welcome to Time Warner.)

"Makes you wonder if anyone knows whats happening..."

Amen.

Dana

There's an interesting article in Saturday's BDN on the issues surrounding the recent tussle between TWC and WABI over carriage. http://www.bangordailynews.com/news/templates/?a=138067

I wish we could get similar articles about issues closer to home.

Dana

I called SusCom, they will have WGME HD and the Tube back on ASAP.

Craig

I just called SusCom cust svc and the rep said that Comcast would be keeping the Brunswick system and completing the conversion within 30 days.

Still no WGME CBS in HD this AM. Hmm.

Called SusCom cust svc again, this time trying Sales. A CSR in the midwest answered (Comcast?) and I outlined the confusion. He insisted that SusCom Brunswick continues to be a Comcast property. Guess we'lll just have to wait and see.

Dana

Hooray! Hooray! :)

(I called Craig and left a voice mail message. What a great response! Thank you!!!)

Dana

PS. This also means that SusCom Brunswick remains a Comcast property since Sinclair Brroadcasting has no carriage agreement with TWC - yet. So much for all the gnashing of teeth - mine.)

GO PATS! :cool:

PPS. WGME HD and The Tube are now baaaaack on SusCom.

For those who like to worry, there's always the possibility that the little SusCom Brunswick system will be the subject of a future trade between Comcast and TWC. But, for now, that seems unlikely. A joint press release here http://www.cmcsk.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=147565&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=889918&highlight=
says in part

"NEW YORK and PHILADELPHIA, July 31, 2006 - Time Warner Inc. (NYSE:TWX) and Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq:CMCSA, CMCSK) today announced that they completed the acquisition of substantially all of Adelphia Communications Corporation's assets.

"With this acquisition as well as the swaps of cable systems between them, Comcast and Time Warner Cable have expanded their cable footprints and improved the geographic clusters of their subscribers..."

That would seem to indicate that the acquisitions and swaps are a done deal. Let's hope so. I want to get off this roller coaster. :rolleyes:

Dana

Dana,

Don't fret. According to the Time Warner Cumberland County channel lineup, NESN is on channel 527! Who needs the Patriots when the Sox will be playing well into October, then you've got hot stove baseball. It actually will be very interesting to see how this all plays out. Thanks for the info.

Go Sox!

Shek,

You're all heart. :rolleyes:

But, Comcast has NESN HD, too. And, I want to be sure I'll see the Patriots at Super Bowl XLI in HD on CBS. ;)

Dana

PS. Winston Churchill is supposed to have quoted a Chinese proverb. "May you be cursed to live in interesting times."

Can someone fill me in and let me know if I have no set top box, can I still pull HD channels off a regular cable line if my TV has a built in tuner in the Portland TW area?

smacksmackums,

A Google search indicates that some TWC subs elsewhere are able to get SD and some HD channels via QAM. When I tried a search on the TWC Portland site, it broke the search engine. :p

Call them and see what they say. And let us know. :)

Dana

Can someone fill me in and let me know if I have no set top box, can I still pull HD channels off a regular cable line if my TV has a built in tuner in the Portland TW area?

In addition to the need for TWC to send these channels in unencrypted QAM, you also need to make sure your TV's tuner can tune QAM signals. Some can only tune OTA ATSC signals, some can tune both ATSC and QAM.

Here's a recent post from a TWC sub in NC that might be helpful.

"Posted on Saturday, June 03, 2006 - 05:07 am:
"Status update on the Raleigh/Cary NC TWC system as of June 2006:

"I am a Cary NC Time Warner cable basic + standard subscriber. I get 20 to 40 digital channels (mostly SD with a few HD) using the QAM tuner in my LG-LST 3510a dvd-tuner. All the local broadcast stations, including their cable-only news, weather, etc channels are available.

"The channel numbers do not match TWC's listed numbers. For example WRALDT (hd) is channel 255 but it comes in on 85-2.

"Also, a few months ago when I first channel scanned, I got a few different channels (other than the locals) than I get now. For example I was getting Discover HD Theatre (HD) and no longer do, but now I get BBC America (SD).

"I have called TWC cable company three times over the past 6 months and asked 'Do I need your box to get digital channels if I have my own digital tuner?' Each time the answer has been a firm, but incorrect, 'yes.'"

On the basis of this last sentence, I'm not sure if you'll get a correct answer by calling TWC locally. :(

The forum thread is here http://forum.ecoustics.com/bbs/messages/2/111055.html

Dana

The latest...

"WASHINGTON -(Dow Jones)- The Federal Communications Commission on Thursday ordered Time Warner Inc. (TWX)'s cable division to put the NFL Network back on systems it recently acquired from cable providers Comcast Corp. (CMCSA) and Adelphia Communications Corp.

...

"At the center of the debate is the network's desire to be included on the basic expanded tier - which gets the largest swath of customers. Time Warner Cable wants to put the network on its sports tier instead, which it offers as NBA-TV, Outdoor Channel and various Fox Sports channels for $5 a month.

"Federal regulators said it appeared that Time Warner discontinued the NFL Network with essentially no warning to customers, depriving them of a chance to find alternative providers ahead of the Aug. 11 start of the NFL's pre-season schedule."

The link is http://www.easybourse.com/Website/dynamic/News.php?NewsID=36583&lang=fra&NewsRubrique=2

Dana

In addition to the need for TWC to send these channels in unencrypted QAM, you also need to make sure your TV's tuner can tune QAM signals. Some can only tune OTA ATSC signals, some can tune both ATSC and QAM.


Well from what I've read about the televisions in which I am interested, owners can pull in unscrambled QAM stations. I was wondering if TW Portland offered these, or if they made you rent the box. I suppose it's not a deal breaker either way, but I was just curious. Thanks for the input, I'll give a call to good old TW and see what they can tell me.

For those anxious to get their first NFL football fix in HD - that would be me - there are a couple of notable events this weekend.

Saturday Aug. 5 Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction from Canton, Ohio ESPN-HD 1:00 PM "The Class of 2006 in Canton, Ohio includes former Cowboys Troy Aikman and Rayfield Wright; the late Reggie White; QB Warren Moon; DE Harry Carson; and coaching and broadcasting legend John Madden."

Sunday Aug. 6, 2006 NFL Hall of Fame Game - Philadelphia Eagles vs. Oakland Raiders (Preseason) 8:00 PM NBC HD (1080i) "The NFL returns to NBC for the first time in eight seasons as Oakland and Philadelphia kick off the preseason in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. Al Michaels and John Madden call the action, with Andrea Kremer reporting from the sidelines."

GO PATS!

Dana

According to TitanTV.com, the first pre-season Pats game will be in HD.

NFL Football (HD) Exhibition: Patriots at Falcons WGME DT1 (CBS) Friday Aug. 11 8:00 PM 1080i (Dolby Digital)

:)

Dana

Smacksmack...

I was wondering the same thing about Suscom here in the midcoast, and never got a straight answer about what is scrambled, and what is not. Suscom reps told me it was all scrambled, but I'm not sure I believe them. Give TW a try and let us know how it works out. I eventually just got a tv without QAM or cablecard, so the box it is for me.

Dana, such football fanaticism. Don't you know it is baseball season? ;)

Smacksmack...

I was wondering the same thing about Suscom here in the midcoast, and never got a straight answer about what is scrambled, and what is not. Suscom reps told me it was all scrambled, but I'm not sure I believe them. Give TW a try and let us know how it works out. I eventually just got a tv without QAM or cablecard, so the box it is for me.

Dana, such football fanaticism. Don't you know it is baseball season? ;)

Yes, Shek, and the baseball games actually count for something (unlike these preseason football games). .......... Can't wait for the Pats to start the season though. I just hope that they play on one of the HD networks that I receive.

Go Sox!!

Stan54,

I'm with you. I hope that TW puts all the network HD channels up ASAP.

Here's the schedule for the remaining three pre-season games from an earlier post. While they are meaningless in many ways, they are important to the players who may be on the bubble. And, we get an idea of what the team will look like.

The Pats second game is Saturday, Aug. 19 -- vs. Cardinals (8 p.m., NFL Network). This is a nationally televised live game on cable. The NFL Network site indicates that the game is NOT in HD.

The third preseason game is Saturday, Aug. 26 -- vs. Redskins (8 p.m. WMTW) in HD.*

The Pats final preseason game is Thursday, Aug. 31 -- at N.Y. Giants (7:30 p.m., WMTW) in HD.*

* Best guess based on available info.

(I don't plan on posting details of regular season Pats or other NFL team games since they are well advertised in advance. The pre-season games are less so.)

Finally, for all you Sox fans, I like 'em too. And I'll like them even better when we get NESN HD on SusCom when Comcast finally takes over. :)

Dana

The latest on this topic, updated as of 4:30 PM Aug. 4...

"Aug. 4 (Bloomberg) -- Time Warner Cable, the U.S. second- largest cable-television operator, put the NFL Network back on some of its systems after the U.S. Federal Communications Commission ordered it to do so.

"The NFL Network was restored at midnight on recently acquired systems to comply with the FCC's order, Time Warner Cable spokesman Mark Harrad said in an e-mailed statement. Time Warner Cable is appealing the decision, he said..."

The link http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aAUjIkdu6z2E&refer=news

How about it in Maine? Is the NFL Network back on the Adelphia systems TWC acquired? Was both SD and HD affected? Let's hear from some viewers. What's happening?

Dana

I live in Lewiston which was formally Adelphia. On August 1st, the NFL Network HD channel (777) abruptly disappeared. Today, the channel was back on. So for the time being TW has complied in Lewiston. :)

The latest on this topic, updated as of 4:30 PM Aug. 4...

"Aug. 4 (Bloomberg) -- Time Warner Cable, the U.S. second- largest cable-television operator, put the NFL Network back on some of its systems after the U.S. Federal Communications Commission ordered it to do so.

"The NFL Network was restored at midnight on recently acquired systems to comply with the FCC's order, Time Warner Cable spokesman Mark Harrad said in an e-mailed statement. Time Warner Cable is appealing the decision, he said..."

The link http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601103&sid=aAUjIkdu6z2E&refer=news

How about it in Maine? Is the NFL Network back on the Adelphia systems TWC acquired? Was both SD and HD affected? Let's hear from some viewers. What's happening?

Dana

Yes, it's back on HD here in Augusta. The 30 day period will be up, however, before they start showing any regular season games which is the only reason I would ever have to watch this channel.

It's like the Fox Sports New England HD channel. Only the Celtic home games are in HD. The rest of the time the channel merely occupies valuable bandwidth. This is what causes cable companies to do things that compromise the quality of their signals.

After getting my hopes up about seeing some NFL football in HD, I was disappointed last wkend.

First, the Saturday Hall of Fame Induction ceremonies from Canton, OH while carried on ESPN HD, were not broadcast in HD! Bummer.

Then, Sunday night's game from Canton on NBC HD had technical problems on my screen at least. The picture would be in focus, then snap out of focus. Annoying. Lots of talk about this issue on other forums so apparently it was the NBC network feed that was at fault. This was the first NFL football broadcast for NBC in eight years, I think, so maybe it was sort of a trial run to get the bugs out. Let's hope they do.

I expect a better HD signal from CBS this Friday night. :)

What was your experience?

Dana

The good news is that the NBC broadcast actually exceeded my expectations. The bad news is that my expectations were pretty low after seeing their horribly blocky Notre Dame coverage last season. I also noticed the focus/blur issue. I've seen it before, even on CBS, but it seemed to take longer to correct itself on NBC. I'm sure the 2 subchannels that WCSH is running dont' help matters at all.

A couple of other complaints:
- no dolby digital sound
- they apparently threw away the equipment they used to put their bug on while staying HD during the olympics, because they had to drop to SD for long stretches in order to tell us that News Center was coming up.

Oh, and did WGME throw away the equipment they used to stay HD while putting their bug on the screen during the Masters coverage? I've definitely seen them drop to SD for station identification since then.

AccidentT,

I wondered about the sound, too. On another avsforum thread here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=422073 our market supposedly has only WMTW HD and MPBN HD capable of broadcasting DD5.1 (upper case in the quote below). Is that correct?

"# 74 Portland, ME - ABC (8) - cbs (13) - nbc (6) - PBS (10)"

The mention of PBS reminds me that to date at least, I have enjoyed the Comcast addition on the SusCom Brunswick system of MPBN (PBS) HD the most. That channel is something that D* could not provide. I hope/think the TWC and Adelphia systems already have it but SusCom Brunswick did not and it was too far away for me to pull in OTA.

Dana

AccidentT,

I wondered about the sound, too. On another avsforum thread here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=422073 our market supposedly has only WMTW HD and MPBN HD capable of broadcasting DD5.1 (upper case in the quote below). Is that correct?

"# 74 Portland, ME - ABC (8) - cbs (13) - nbc (6) - PBS (10)"

The mention of PBS reminds me that to date at least, I have enjoyed the Comcast addition on the SusCom Brunswick system of MPBN (PBS) HD the most. That channel is something that D* could not provide. I hope/think the TWC and Adelphia systems already have it but SusCom Brunswick did not and it was too far away for me to pull in OTA.

Dana

Augusta Adelphia / TWC has MPBN HD and it is a good channel. The HD is usually very good and the programming interesting.

Thanks, Stan.

WGME HD is providing DD5.1 audio at this hour on SusCom Brunswick so we know that "The Official AVS List of all Stations Broadcasting HDTV/DD 5.1" needs to be updated on that score. What do we know about WCSH HD? Is it capable of passing DD5.1? (We know it didn't happen on the HOF NFL game on Sunday night but I don't know if NBC provided a DD5.1 audio feed.)

Dana

According to Wendel Stevens, Senior Audio, Sunday Night Football on this thread "NBC Sunday Night Football - Audio setup info from the Mixer!" here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=706054 the HOF Game was in 1080i and DD 5.1.

So, did WCSH HD decide not to carry it? Or, does it lack the capability?

Dana

Here's what Mike Marshall at WCSH told me in January:

"NBC does occasionally broadcast in 5.1 dolby. We do not have the equipment to pass it through at this time. We do not have any plan for the coming year to add it either....maybe 2007 or 2008, as more NBC product is offered in 5.1 and more consumers can receive it."

AccidenT,

Thanks again for your always helpful info. I'll lower my expectations of "NBC Sunday Night NFL Football" on WCSH HD. Jeez.

I can't help but note that based on Wendal Stevens' comments noted above, NBC will be putting a lot of effort into its DD5.1 audio feed of Sunday Night Football. The technical crew apparently came along with Madden and Michaels. It's pretty lame that someone at WCSH doesn't get it.

:(

Dana

PS. I'll update the "Official AVS List..."

Here's what Mike Marshall at WCSH told me in January:

"NBC does occasionally broadcast in 5.1 dolby. We do not have the equipment to pass it through at this time. We do not have any plan for the coming year to add it either....maybe 2007 or 2008, as more NBC product is offered in 5.1 and more consumers can receive it."

I've written to Mike Marshall, asking for an update, pointing out that WCSH is the only station now broadcasting in HD in this DMA w/o including DD5.1 and noting that NBC is putting a lot of effort/technology into delivering DD5.1 with SNF. I also noted that we did get DD5.1 from ABC on MNF last year. :rolleyes:

I'll let you know what he says.

Dana

No, you're going about it the wrong way. The real key is to speak to the person(s) who decided that Weather+ was a good idea, and convince them that Weather+ would be even better with DD5.1. Then you'd be sure to see progress on the local affiliate side. ;)

No, you're going about it the wrong way. The real key is to speak to the person(s) who decided that Weather+ was a good idea, and convince them that Weather+ would be even better with DD5.1. Then you'd be sure to see progress on the local affiliate side. ;)

Rats. I should have thought of that. :p

Dana

I've written to Mike Marshall, asking for an update, pointing out that WCSH is the only station now broadcasting in HD in this DMA w/o including DD5.1 and noting that NBC is putting a lot of effort/technology into delivering DD5.1 with SNF. I also noted that we did get DD5.1 from ABC on MNF last year. :rolleyes:

I'll let you know what he says.

Dana

AccidenT,

Apparently, Mike has a short memory. Here's his response.

"We don't have the equipment to provide the 5.1 dolby digital audio. Best guess would be in 2 to 3 years....you're the first to ask. mike"

Of course his response begs the question of why his station doesn't have the equipment when WMTW 8 (ABC), WCBB 10 / WMEA 26 (PBS/MPBN), and WGME 13 (CBS) do. Maybe he's waiting to see whether this HDTV Dolby Digital 5.1 thingamajig will really catch on?

Dana

No we did not throw away the equipment,( good one ) its a case of summer vacation relief operators I would say. There are two Mater Controls one for WGME and WGME DT. WGME DT mirrors WGME except for a couple of operations. The I.D. is one of them, Master has to remember to leave the HD alone and add the HD I.D. in the stream manually. I will go over this with them before Fridays Pats game.

Craig

Oh, and did WGME throw away the equipment they used to stay HD while putting their bug on the screen during the Masters coverage? I've definitely seen them drop to SD for station identification since then.
:)

Thanks Dana, I'm not sure where the official AVS list information comes from but we have had 5.1 a couple of years now maybe more..

Craig

AccidenT,

Thanks again for your always helpful info. I'll lower my expectations of "NBC Sunday Night NFL Football" on WCSH HD. Jeez.

I can't help but note that based on Wendal Stevens' comments noted above, NBC will be putting a lot of effort into its DD5.1 audio feed of Sunday Night Football. The technical crew apparently came along with Madden and Michaels. It's pretty lame that someone at WCSH doesn't get it.

:(

Dana

PS. I'll update the "Official AVS List..."

Thanks Dana, I'm not sure where the official AVS list information comes from but we have had 5.1 a couple of years now maybe more..

Craig

Craig,

I was pretty sure I was getting DD 5.1 OTA from WGME HD when I was with D* for a year and a half. But, I wanted to be sure. And now that I can get your HD station on SusCom, it was easy to confirm. :)

Also, Craig, thanks for the honest answer to Accident's question about flipping the right switch on station ID. Human error is often the explanation for a lot of things but few own up to it readily, blaming "equipment failure" etc., instead. And the constructive response "I'll go over this with them..." is a great way to turn a negative into a positive. :cool:

Dana

Hey Dana,

Does your Suscom cable box SA 3250HD act as a receiver for OTA HD signals as well? My TV has an HD tuner but I would rather run OTA through my cable box if possible to reduce cables!

Thanks!

Any word on NESN HD yet?

go sox!!

Hey stuben,

Naw. The SA 3250 HD does not allow for OTA reception. I doubt that many (any?) cable co STBs do. :( You're lucky to have an OTA tuner on your set. I don't which is why I went with D* for a year and a half - to get WGME HD OTA for Patriots football!!!

But what local HD stations do you want to get OTA that we can't get now on SusCom Brunswick? (I think/hope that Comcast will get a closed circuit HD feed from WPFO/Fox like TWC/Adelphia does once their lineup is in place.)

No word on NESN HD on SusCom Brunswick. I think we'll have to wait for the full Comcast lineup for that. I was told "within 30 days" back on Aug. 2. The way the Sox are playing lately, I can wait.

Anyone watch the game on Fox tonight in HD on TWC or Adelphia? How was video/audio? Not available on SusCom Brunswick. Anyway, I hate Manning and the Colts. ;)

Dana

I guess there are no channels that I can't get on Suscom! Do you find that the local channels on Suscom are as clear as their OTA conterparts?

I'll be praying for the FOX HD feed as well!

Now if only I can get Suscom out to our house to run the line in from the street!!!

Thanks for the info!

Stuben,

I was only able to get WGME HD OTA with D* from my location (just the one I wanted). It's hard to be sure w/o a side by side comparo whether the same channel on SusCom Brunswick is technically equal to OTA. But I think so. Sensational in both cases.

Dana

Hello all,

Here's a couple of tidbits I've picked up from other forums that contribute to my realization that this changeover from one cable co to another is more complicated than I imagined.

From a SusCom tech at another location. "From what I understand, we are going to be connected by fiber from the Comcast backbone for the digital tiers. As far as I know, we will continue to use the dish for the analogs."

From a poster on another forum. "For those who are interested here is a link to an online photo album of a new CATV Headend construction. You'll come to appreciate all the equipment and wiring it takes to make it all happen:
»www.xipi.net/~cklim/pics/album52

"And some digital and VOD Hardware:
»www.xipi.net/~cklim/pics/catvhe

I have no idea where these headend photos were taken. But the complexity makes me realize why it could be months to convert our systems in Maine.

Dana

Hello all,

A surprisingly entertaining Patriots v. Atlanta pre-season football game tonight. WGME/CBS HD with DD 5.1 audio was excellent on SusCom Brunswick.

But I forgot how many commercials there are during an NFL game. :( A few were in HD, however. :)

Dana

The Saturday Aug. 19th Pats game vs. Arizona will be on WMTW as well. Unfortunately, it does not look like an HD feed will be available.

Hi,
I moved to Auburn about a month ago and signed up for cable with Adelphia. Does anyone know why WGME 13 is not carried in HD on the system in Auburn? Need to get my Pats games in HD.
Thanks..

shaugh,

Welcome to the forum!

WGME 13 is owned and operated by Sinclair Broadcast Group, which operates the largest number (about 60 ±) of local broadcast stations in the USA, according to Wikipedia here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinclair_Broadcasting

Sinclair wants to be compensated by cable cos for carriage of its local stations HD channels. So far, I believe only Comcast - the largest cable co in the US - has done so, signing a national agreement a little more than a year ago. Adelphia never did and Time-Warner, which now owns all of Maine's former Adelphia systems, hasn't done so either.

Until that happens nationally, WGME/CBS HD won't be on TWC/Adelphia cable systems. At this point we don't know what the status is of negotiations - if any - between TWC and Sinclair.

:(

Dana

Shaugh,

So as not to leave a fellow Pats fan wondering, I was faced with a similar situation a couple of years ago. I dropped my local cable co here and went with DirecTV (D*) and managed to get WGME/CBS in HD OTA that way! SusCom Brunswick was bought by Comcast so I switched back last May.

But, the good news is that D* does have a carriage agreement with Sinclair and the Portland-Auburn DMA is currently being set up to get local HD channels without needing an OTA antenna. That's one option you have at this point to get the Pats in HD in Auburn. (I don't think the new D* MPEG4 spot beam has been turned on yet but it will be soon, from all reports.)

Another option is to put an antenna on your roof and get WGME CBS HD that way, either with a separate HD OTA receiver or with one that might be built in to your HD TV set.

Dana

GO PATS!

Does anyone lose the digital stations besides me?

I have a Toshiba 37HL95, and have it connected to a rooftop R.S. antenna (the 192) on a rotator. I have lost the digital broadcasts of channels 10.1 and 10.2, 13.1 and 13.2, and channel 51.1. This is not the first time this has happened. Once, I lost 10.1 and 10.2, and I found channel 6.1 and 6.2 was broadcasting from these station channels. Another time I lost the digital pictures completely, but had the sound. This seems to be an ongoing problem with this tv.

I am wondering if maybe the particular tv stations are not transmitting the digital signals at some times, or is my tv tuner (atsc tuner) screwed up? I have called Toshiba 6 times since I purchased my tv in late April, had a tv repair guy stop by once with a software upgrade, but continue to periodically lose digital broadcasts of stations.

Is there anyone else who has experienced this problem(s)?

On another subject, I have also found out that all the digital stations broadcast from other numbers and then force feed to the appropriate channels.
channel:
17.1=10.1 (wcbb,pbs)
17.2=10.2 (wcbb, pbsHD)
28.1=35.1 (wpme)
38.1=13.1 (wgmeHD)
38.2= 13.2 (wgme, the tube music videos)
44.1=6.1 (wcshHD)
44.2)=6.2 (wcsh, all-weather)
45.1=26.1 (pbs)
45.2=26.2 (pbsHD)
46.1=8.1 (wmtw, broadcasting at 720p)
*FOX 23 (wpfo) will not be broadcasting digitally until February 1st, 2009)

Does anyone lose the digital stations besides me?

I have a Toshiba 37HL95, and have it connected to a rooftop R.S. antenna (the 192) on a rotator. I have lost the digital broadcasts of channels 10.1 and 10.2, 13.1 and 13.2, and channel 51.1. This is not the first time this has happened. Once, I lost 10.1 and 10.2, and I found channel 6.1 and 6.2 was broadcasting from these station channels. Another time I lost the digital pictures completely, but had the sound. This seems to be an ongoing problem with this tv.

I am wondering if maybe the particular tv stations are not transmitting the digital signals at some times, or is my tv tuner (atsc tuner) screwed up? I have called Toshiba 6 times since I purchased my tv in late April, had a tv repair guy stop by once with a software upgrade, but continue to periodically lose digital broadcasts of stations.

Is there anyone else who has experienced this problem(s)?

On another subject, I have also found out that all the digital stations broadcast from other numbers and then force feed to the appropriate channels.
channel:
17.1=10.1 (wcbb,pbs)
17.2=10.2 (wcbb, pbsHD)
28.1=35.1 (wpme)
38.1=13.1 (wgmeHD)
38.2= 13.2 (wgme, the tube music videos)
44.1=6.1 (wcshHD)
44.2)=6.2 (wcsh, all-weather)
45.1=26.1 (pbs)
45.2=26.2 (pbsHD)
46.1=8.1 (wmtw, broadcasting at 720p)
*FOX 23 (wpfo) will not be broadcasting digitally until February 1st, 2009)

Often times a few of my OTA Digital stations come and go. WCSH in particular. Most likely caused by atmospheric conditions.

Your list should also include 43.1=51.1 WPXT. I am glad to see both WPME and WPXT come on in full power. WPME broadcasts in HD for a few UPN network shows. I was disappointed that syndicated 'Enterprise' was not though.

One problem that I do have with OTA digital WPME and WPXT: The program guide says 'No Data' instead of the proper program information. WCSH, WMTW, WGME and WCBB all have programming data in the guide. Has anyone else noticed this?

John

One problem that I do have with OTA digital WPME and WPXT: The program guide says 'No Data' instead of the proper program information. WCSH, WMTW, WGME and WCBB all have programming data in the guide. Has anyone else noticed this?

John

Hi John,

Do you have DirecTv?

About a month back I asked Chet Cook (the engineer at WPXT/WPME) about the missing guide data for his stations on my HD-Tivo and he said he'd look into it, but we haven't heard an update since then.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7973915#post7973915

Hi John,

Do you have DirecTv?

About a month back I asked Chet Cook (the engineer at WPXT/WPME) about the missing guide data for his stations on my HD-Tivo and he said he'd look into it, but we haven't heard an update since then.

No I have the Dish HD 411. The OTA Digital stations from Portland blend in seamlessly with my Boston HD locals from Dish (I live on the northern fringe of the Boston DMA, it is great! Two DMA's in HD!). On another set I have a Samsung SIR-t451, an OTA HD tuner independent of Dish. With both systems I get programming data from WCSH, WMTW, WGME & WCBB but not for WPXT or WPME.

If you are also missing the programming data with DirecTV, that would suggest that there are definitely technical diffculties with the stations. I wonder if Dish subscribers in your area have program data for WPXT/WPME?

John

Hello all,

Not seeing the Saturday night 8 PM Pats v. Arizona game listed anywhere for local broadcast, I wrote my contact at WMTW-TV. Here's his response.

"Hi Dana,

"We petitioned the NFL to allow us to carry the game this Saturday. Even the Patriot's attorney group went to bat for us. Unfortunately the NFL denied us the right to carry the game. They do not consider Portland a home market for the Patriots. It will be available on WCVB in Boston and WMUR in Manchester. Manchester is considered part of the Boston market and therefore was granted the right to carry the game.

"We will carry the games on Saturday 8/26 and on Thursday 8/31.

"Regards,

"Ken"

The game will be carried live nationally on the NFL Network on cable but NOT in HD.

Dana

Hello all,

Not seeing the Saturday night 8 PM Pats v. Arizona game listed anywhere for local broadcast, I wrote my contact at WMTW-TV. Here's his response.

"Hi Dana,

"We petitioned the NFL to allow us to carry the game this Saturday. Even the Patriot's attorney group went to bat for us. Unfortunately the NFL denied us the right to carry the game. They do not consider Portland a home market for the Patriots. It will be available on WCVB in Boston and WMUR in Manchester. Manchester is considered part of the Boston market and therefore was granted the right to carry the game.

"We will carry the games on Saturday 8/26 and on Thursday 8/31.

"Regards,

"Ken"

The game will be carried live nationally on the NFL Network on cable but NOT in HD.

Dana

I'm wondering why the NFL Network wouldn't carry the game in HD if they are going to carry it on the NFLN standard definition channel. Adelphia / Time Warner Augusta has the NFLN HD channel and also the standard definition channel.

This HD channel operates 24 / 7 and only schedules about 35 - 40 hours of HD broadcasting a year. If they miss a single game, they lose about 10% of their value for the year. I'm going to be looking.

Stan,

I've wondered the same thing. The clue may be that unlike most of the other 52 pre-season games that the NFL Network will carry (all but the 13 national network games) that are locally produced, this game and one other are the first to be produced by the NFL Network itself. It may be that they wanted to keep this production as simple as possible while they iron out the kinks.

Only 18 of the pre-season games carried live or on replay by the NFL Network will be in HD in any event.

More here http://www.nfl.com/nflnetwork/preseason_2006

Dana

Often times a few of my OTA Digital stations come and go. WCSH in particular. Most likely caused by atmospheric conditions.

Your list should also include 43.1=51.1 WPXT. I am glad to see both WPME and WPXT come on in full power. WPME broadcasts in HD for a few UPN network shows. I was disappointed that syndicated 'Enterprise' was not though.

One problem that I do have with OTA digital WPME and WPXT: The program guide says 'No Data' instead of the proper program information. WCSH, WMTW, WGME and WCBB all have programming data in the guide. Has anyone else noticed this?

John
No datafrom WCBB and I get it at 29.75 SNR(85%)and no DD only stereo. Guides are intermitant from PME and PXT. Others are contingent on atmospheric conditions.

About a month back I asked Chet Cook (the engineer at WPXT/WPME) about the missing guide data for his stations on my HD-Tivo and he said he'd look into it, but we haven't heard an update since then.

I do have an update. I haven't posted yet because I was waiting to see the listings appear on my DirecTV DVR.

We send our program schedule to Tribune Media through our corporate programming system. Unfortunately it only sends the info for the analog stations (both WPXT and WPME). I have been looking into getting our digital channels listed as well. But like anything dealing with the corporate office, things take time. I believe our digital channels are now being sent to Tribune, which is where Zap2it.com gets it's programming data, which is where DirecTV DVRs (TiVos) get there data from. I spoke to a gentleman from Tribune. He said it could take up to a week before it trickles down the pipes.

So keep watching. It will be there eventually.

Chet Cook
Engineer
WPXT-TV/WPME-TV

Any further word on WGME and TWC coming to agreement before the Pats first game? I've got a ChannelMaster 4228 standing by to use here from my Gardiner location. I presently am using a Motorola DVR into my HDTV, so I can get all the other games in HD, but I don't want to send my wife up on the roof for an installation unless absolutly necessary.

Any further word on WGME and TWC coming to agreement before the Pats first game? I've got a ChannelMaster 4228 standing by to use here from my Gardiner location. I presently am using a Motorola DVR into my HDTV, so I can get all the other games in HD, but I don't want to send my wife up on the roof for an installation unless absolutly necessary.

You might as well send her up now while the weather is still nice. I think things between Sinclair and TWC are pretty much at a standstill until 2009 when the analog channels go away and there will be a lot more incentive for both sides for TWC to carry the digital ones.

You might as well send her up now while the weather is still nice. I think things between Sinclair and TWC are pretty much at a standstill until 2009 when the analog channels go away and there will be a lot more incentive for both sides for TWC to carry the digital ones.

I agree with AccidenT. This isn't an issue between WGME and TWC Portland. It involves the Sinclair Broadcast Group in Hunt Valley, MD., the operator of the largest number of local television stations in the US; and TWC corporate, the second-largest national cable television company that operates in 27 states and has 31 operating divisions. It doesn't really involve CBS either, as Sinclair only owns two CBS affiliates. (Info from Wikipedia.)

So, we're caught up in a disagreement about payment for carriage of HD broadcast channels on cable cos that is national in scope and actually involves the cable industry vs. the broadcast interests. Apparently, TWC isn't motivated just because Comcast and D* signed carriage agreements with Sinclair.

It could happen tomorrow but if you really, really want to get the Pats in HD sooner than later, as AccidenT says, "... send her up now." Safety First of course.

Dana

I do have an update. I haven't posted yet because I was waiting to see the listings appear on my DirecTV DVR.

We send our program schedule to Tribune Media through our corporate programming system. Unfortunately it only sends the info for the analog stations (both WPXT and WPME). I have been looking into getting our digital channels listed as well. But like anything dealing with the corporate office, things take time. I believe our digital channels are now being sent to Tribune, which is where Zap2it.com gets it's programming data, which is where DirecTV DVRs (TiVos) get there data from. I spoke to a gentleman from Tribune. He said it could take up to a week before it trickles down the pipes.

So keep watching. It will be there eventually.

Chet Cook
Engineer
WPXT-TV/WPME-TV

Thanks for the update Chet. I apologize if I came across as sounding like I thought you weren't actively working on it. Rather, I was just trying to let John know that we had already alerted you to the issue and it was being worked on.

Also, I don't have any knowledge about where the DISH receivers get guide data for OTA digital channels, but maybe your efforts will solve that issue as well.

I don't suppose the NFL network is carried on Time warner cable in Portland, is it??

I have been following this forum for a long time and I really appreciate all the information that comes out of it. I was one of the first time warner cable customers to get high definition here in Maine and I have been quite happy with it for the past few years.

One question I had with the new direct tv locals on hd was if anyone knew if Fox HD would be carried?

One comment I would like to add is I expect Time warner to become a lot more interested in working with Sinclair as soon as they start losing customers to direct tv. When Time Warner is really the only local high def game in town, why should they give in to Sinclair? When the customers start leaving, to go to Direct TV, which I for one will, I bet Time Warner will quickly change their tune.

I have been following this forum for a long time and I really appreciate all the information that comes out of it. I was one of the first time warner cable customers to get high definition here in Maine and I have been quite happy with it for the past few years.

One question I had with the new direct tv locals on hd was if anyone knew if Fox HD would be carried?

One comment I would like to add is I expect Time warner to become a lot more interested in working with Sinclair as soon as they start losing customers to direct tv. When Time Warner is really the only local high def game in town, why should they give in to Sinclair? When the customers start leaving, to go to Direct TV, which I for one will, I bet Time Warner will quickly change their tune.

Good points and I agree and I think our bargaining chip is the PATS
I sent an email to TWC as a former Adelphia customer asking for their plans in regard to WGME and they sent me back a stock email saying welcome let us know if we can help you out. My guess is the email was never read and the return was machine generated.
Any word on WABI in Bangor offering HD on TWC

I have been following this forum for a long time and I really appreciate all the information that comes out of it. I was one of the first time warner cable customers to get high definition here in Maine and I have been quite happy with it for the past few years.

One question I had with the new direct tv locals on hd was if anyone knew if Fox HD would be carried?

One comment I would like to add is I expect Time warner to become a lot more interested in working with Sinclair as soon as they start losing customers to direct tv. When Time Warner is really the only local high def game in town, why should they give in to Sinclair? When the customers start leaving, to go to Direct TV, which I for one will, I bet Time Warner will quickly change their tune.

Hey mphinne2,

As far as I can tell, the NFL Network is not on TWC - Portland (or anywhere else on the original TWC systems?) .

Regarding whether WPFO 23 (Fox) HD will be included in the D* local HD spot beam, while the station doesn't broadcast now in HD and won't until 2009 apparently, AccidenT pointed out in an earlier post that TWC and the Adelphia systems get Fox HD from WPFO by closed circuit. I don't know if that can be done with the D* spot beam. Guess we'll have to wait and see.

Dana

Good points and I agree and I think our bargaining chip is the PATS
I sent an email to TWC as a former Adelphia customer asking for their plans in regard to WGME and they sent me back a stock email saying welcome let us know if we can help you out. My guess is the email was never read and the return was machine generated.
Any word on WABI in Bangor offering HD on TWC

Hey robmunz,

Nothing new since the flurry of activity a couple of weeks ago. It's all about $$$.

Dana

Also, I don't have any knowledge about where the DISH receivers get guide data for OTA digital channels, but maybe your efforts will solve that issue as well.

Dish gets their OTA HD local info from the same place they get their Satellite HD & SD local information. The EPG has the TV Guide logo on it, so I would guess it comes from them.

Today I noticed that my Samsung STB which uses the PSIP data stream for info had guide information for WPXT-DT. No change for WPME-DT. It still says 'No Data'. No change for either on on my Dish receiver.

Thanks for the update Chet. I'll keep watching.

John

The NFL HD channel on Adelphia / TWC Augusta has the following games scheduled for Saturday:

1:00 Bengals @ Bills
4:00 Lions @ Browns (rerun)
8:00 Cardinals @ Patriots

Of course, these are only meaningless preseason games, but I know some people might enjoy tuning in for a few minutes or so. The Adelphia schedule did not specifically say that the games were going to be in HD, but they are listed for the HD channel. (The Fox Sports New England HD channel only showed the Celtics home games in HD, so you can never be sure. Even those home games had some that only showed in SD, but I think that might have been due to some technical glitch.)

WABI provided this response to an E-Mail I sent just today. I will post it on both the Bangor and Portland threads.

Hi, Stan. I appreciate your taking the time and making the effort to
write to us directly with your concerns about digital signal
retransmission. I understand your interest in HD programming, and from a
personal point of view, I sympathize with your evident frustration over
the absence of CBS HD programming on your cable system.

Many digital cable viewers share the philosophy that HD cable carriage
would be to our advantage, and that non-carriage is to our detriment.
These viewers "champion the cause" of the cable companies, with the
viewpoint that they assist in our ratings performance and thus our
financial viability. While that is arguably true to some extent (very
small to literally non-existent at this point in the digital world), it is
also undeniably a fact that cable operators profits are tied to the
services they provide, and local stations are a big draw for subscribers.

We ended up having very good discussions with TWC at the conclusion of our
basic analog cable deal, and we've had good discussions with other
systems, too (some of which just aren't quite ready for the digital age).
We are hopeful that reasonable terms can be reached with TWC, at least,
with regard to HDTV, as we do respect the reach that their systems
provide. However, we feel that we deserve respect for the value of our
programming, as well (most of it is at least as good as any USA movie full
of six-minute commercial breaks)

You should know that it's unlikely that Sinclair or anyone else (us, for
instance) would enjoy significant ratings increases/ad dollars from
digital carriage at this time. Advertisers have pretty much indicated
that they see no additional value to this coverage currently, and it just
hasn't been worth the fight with the admittedly limited market. It's cool
that you've embraced the technology, Stan (as have many others, no doubt),
but the fact remains that "bread and butter" viewership comes over-the-air
and on basic tier services.

I hesitate to get into the compensation issue in this email, but I do feel
that you're looking at the situation from a biased perspective (no offense
intended). Frankly, if the cable company will pay USA, AMC, TNT, TBS and
the like for their services (in ANALOG!), they should be more than happy
to share a few pennies with broadcasters who have invested tens of
millions of dollars in HD conversion with no way to recover the costs so
far, and more costs in continued upgrades every year. It's like me buying
car , keeping it maintained and gassed up,and letting you drive it around
as a taxi service.

Hmm -- so much for my hesitation to get into the issue. I could be
worse, Stan, but I'll spare you my full opinion. Just know that
regardless of what I think (or what you think), in the end both entities
need each other. That's the beginning of making a FAIR deal. We hope to
BE seen by you, too -- if not in September, then some (wonderful) day.

Thanks for the input, and for putting up with mine. I'll share your
perspective with upper management.

Steve Hiltz
Program Director

Hello all,

I just noticed this nugget in Mike Reiss's Mailbag column here http://www.boston.com/sports/football/patriots/extras/askreiss/08_15_06/

"The Patriots are in action again on Saturday night when the Arizona Cardinals come to town (8 p.m.). The game will be broadcast by the NFL Network, with Spero Dedes on play-by-play and former Packers receiver Sterling Sharpe the color commentator."

Dana

GO PATS!

Summary:

"The cable industry suffered a blow on Friday when a federal appeals court upheld the Federal Communications Commission's mandate requiring cable operators to distribute a technology called CableCards, which will allow digital cable subscribers to get rid of their cable set-top boxes."

The entire story is here http://news.com.com/Cable+companies+lose+round+in+CableCard+battle/2100-1033_3-6107359.html?tag=nefd.top

Dana

Summary:

"The cable industry suffered a blow on Friday when a federal appeals court upheld the Federal Communications Commission's mandate requiring cable operators to distribute a technology called CableCards, which will allow digital cable subscribers to get rid of their cable set-top boxes."

The entire story is here http://news.com.com/Cable+companies+lose+round+in+CableCard+battle/2100-1033_3-6107359.html?tag=nefd.top

Dana

God bless the FCC and the federal appeals court. Long live the cablecard!

I want to share this follow-up from WABI on both the Bangor and Portland threads.

Hi, Stan.

I just wanted to acknowledge your follow up to my reply. I'm happy that
you will share that with other concerned viewers.

At the risk of engaging in a debate about this issue, I feel that you are
making unsupported presumptions about what will happen when the analog
signals go away. In fact, I doubt that basic cable subscribers will note
any difference at all , as systems will simply downconvert the digital
signals to them (as some are already doing in order to receive and deliver
a cleaner signal).

Digital HD is now and will be a premium service, for which subscribers pay
additional fees. No doubt ESPN, HBO, et al receive "a cut" for their HD
signals, and stations may or may not require the same. I would not
presume to speak for other stations, nor can I personally predict what
WABI-TV upper management /ownership will ultimately do. But if you
believe that Must Carry is a foregone conclusion, you are mistaken. We
don't have a single Must Carry agreement in force today (and this decision
is not always about money). Retransmission Consent allows both parties to
engage in other business relationships beyond the carriage issue, and both
sides have an interest in doing so. In most cases, both sides recognize
the MUTUAL benefits to the relationship, and desire specific terms not
necessarily related to simple carriage of the signal.

With regard to TNT and the others coming in "after routine carriage of
local stations" -- I submit that that is not at all a valid argument for
denying local stations compensation today. Cable systems have ALWAYS paid
for some services, from the outset. In this market, WSBK-TV comes to
mind. And, as you say, early agreements were predicated on business
conditions "of the time." Certainly all of these agreements have changed
many times over in the past few decades. New times. New deals. And there
is no newer time than this, the digital era.

It's also a major assumption to suggest that ALL local stations have
ALWAYS been carried without compensation on ALL systems. In fact, it's
simply not true. I'd be happy to lay down money on the fact that several
local stations have been paid for years in many markets (based on the
value that they bring to the particular cable line-up). and that larger
station groups ARE receiving payment (in some form, at least) as part of a
GROUP clearance of their owned stations, simply "throwing in" smaller
markets as part of the deal.

I can tell that I won't change your position on this issue, Stan (and you
can be sure that you won't change mine, either). However, I do sincerely
appreciate the opportunity to address your comments, and I respect your
opinion, despite disagreeing with it.

Steve H

Last night's game between the Pats v. Arizona Cardinals was carried by SusCom Brunswick on its digital tier in SD. The quality was technically very good on my HDTV. Not HD quality of course but better than analog channels look. Stereo sound was also very good. Obviously the (contract) crew that produced the cablecast was experienced. No technical glitches noticed here.

The next pre-season Pats game, Sat. Aug. 26 at 8 PM in Foxborough vs. the Redskins and the last pre-season game at the N. Y. Giants on Thursday Aug. 31 at 7:30 PM are now confirmed to be "in glorious high definition" according to a press release from WCVB-TV, Boston.

Dana

Last night's game between the Pats v. Arizona Cardinals was carried by SusCom Brunswick on its digital tier in SD. The quality was technically very good on my HDTV. Not HD quality of course but better than analog channels look. Stereo sound was also very good. Obviously the (contract) crew that produced the cablecast was experienced. No technical glitches noticed here.

The next pre-season Pats game, Sat. Aug. 26 at 8 PM in Foxborough vs. the Redskins and the last pre-season game at the N. Y. Giants on Thursday Aug. 31 at 7:30 PM are now confirmed to be "in glorious high definition" according to a press release from WCVB-TV, Boston.

Dana

Yeah, the game was in very good SD on our NFL HD channel.

Summary:

"The cable industry suffered a blow on Friday when a federal appeals court upheld the Federal Communications Commission's mandate requiring cable operators to distribute a technology called CableCards, which will allow digital cable subscribers to get rid of their cable set-top boxes."

The entire story is here http://news.com.com/Cable+companies+lose+round+in+CableCard+battle/2100-1033_3-6107359.html?tag=nefd.top

Dana

At the risk of being labelled as the eternal pessimist ;), I figured I should point out that this case doesn't help in regards to the issue of TWC's plan to implement Switched Digital Video. The gist of the problem is that cable cards don't work with SDV, and the wording of the cable card mandate is such that while a cable company is required to provide CableCards, the CCs only have to work with QAM-modulated signals.

Just a heads up for those of you considering a purchase of the TiVo series 3 to use with TWC. I originally thought the S3 would be the answer to everyone's TWC/CBS-HD problem, since it can also record OTA HD, but now it seems likely it won't be able to record TWC's HD.

Hello!

There's a piece on the latimes.com web site that explains in more detail than in any newspaper piece in these parts what is going on in the TWC-NFL Network cat fight over carriage. http://www.latimes.com/news/politics/la-sp-tv22aug22,0,5677513.story?coll=la-headlines-politics

If no TWC Maine system (Portland or Adelphia) carries the NFL Network next year and one or more Pats games are carried live by the NFL Network in 2007, then 85% of Maine's cable viewers won't see them. While the home markets of the teams involved will get these games OTA, we just learned from last Saturday's pre-season NFL Network Pats game that Portland isn't considered (by the NFL - no conflict there of course. :rolleyes: ) in the home market of the Patriots. Thus, no Maine TV station gets to broadcast such games. Only Boston and Manchester are included. (Providence is excluded, which is practically next door to Foxborough.)

While at the moment the lack of carriage of the NFL Network might not seem all that important, we might feel differently next year. Let's hope for the best.

Dana

If I start missing patriots games I will have direct tv up quicker than you can say cable.

One of the nice things about not being considered "home market" used to be that when the patriots games didn't sell out, you couldn't see them in Boston, but you could see them here. Times have changed.

I got the letter from Comcast today. Suscom becomes Comcast on Sept. 6. No mention of NESN HD but we're getting Weather Plus, OLN and the Golf Channel, Yippeee.

I got the letter from Comcast today. Suscom becomes Comcast on Sept. 6. No mention of NESN HD but we're getting Weather Plus, OLN and the Golf Channel, Yippeee.

Will the lineup change? Will charges remain the same? I haven't received my letter yet. :( Was it enclosed with your bill?

Dana

Will the lineup change? Will charges remain the same? I haven't received my letter yet. :( Was it enclosed with your bill?

Dana
Dana,
No, not in the bill, it was just just a form letter. Nothing about new line-ups or bill changes. If you get internet from Suscom, It'll stay the SusCom-Maine.net email address for a little while. The only HD news was that they added WGME and MPBN. There's nothing to add really. Just a hello and you're now a Comcast customer.

Dana,
No, not in the bill, it was just just a form letter. Nothing about new line-ups or bill changes. If you get internet from Suscom, It'll stay the SusCom-Maine.net email address for a little while. The only HD news was that they added WGME and MPBN. There's nothing to add really. Just a hello and you're now a Comcast customer.

I was in the Augusta Circuit City yesterday and the salesman told me that he had been talking with an Adelphia (TWC) employee recently and was told that the Augusta Time Warner would be Comcast before too long. I know that TWC and Comcast have exchanged some locals in connection with the takeover of Adelphia, but I have seen nothing that would lead me to believe that we will be anything but TWC for the foreseeable future. He, also, told me that he was told TWC Augusta would have CBS by the end of the year. There was something about an agreement that was made at one time and, then, overlooked in the transition process and the agreement is now being called in.

I have no way of knowing or guessing if any of this is true, but I will keep my eyes open for clues. Has anyone here heard anything?

By the way, I have a final installment on my correspondence with WABI wherein a couple of my questions were answered. I was surprised and very pleased that the station would take the time and effort to talk with me to this extent. It speaks well of those people. Now, if they would just get themselves on the HD dial .......................... !!!

Hi, Stan.

I've addressed your additional questions below.

Steve H.

"Stan Sumner" <ssum9160@adelphia.net> writes:
>Am I correct in thinking that when the switch to digital takes place, the
>cable company may convert the station's digital signal to analog because
>they have not been granted the right by the station to display the actual
>digital signal?


Technically, that will depend on what each station wants, but since basic
tier subscription and analog TV sets will continue to dominate the
cable/satellite market in the short term, I anticipate that most stations
will not only allow downconversion, but will indeed make it part of the
deals -- and I expect most cable operators will want that option, as well.
Therefore, any station that elects Retransmission Consent the next time
around will probably deal with this factor one way or another. Of
course, one day the general population will fully embrace digital
technology (and the "switch" WILL drive that in many rural areas), but
with cable carriage established, and with satellite carriage in most
areas, too, the fact is that many consumers simply wont have to upgrade,
and probably won't -- until digital sets/converters really come down in
price.

>
>Adelphia / TWC has permission to carry and display the digital signals of
>WCSH and WMTW. The cable company advertises "enhanced locals." Is this
>because they are converting the digital signal to analog for display on
>the
>analog tier? It seems clear that is what you said, but I guess
>confirmation
>would be good thing.

I'm not sure about that one, Stan, but I'd guess that it is indeed true.
In any event, cable operators will definitely want that option when the
switch takes place, and I'd expect it to be brought up in negotiations (if
it hasn't already been established).
>
>
>My last question is one that is in a sensitive area considering current
>circumstances. Most of us have few clues as to what things are involved
>in
>the bargaining process between stations and cable companies. Payment for
>the signal is obvious, but the other things of value seem very vague and
>mysterious to someone on the outside. We know that a station cares about
>where it is placed in the cable tiers of service and the identifying
>channel
>number, however, are there really other matters that both sides place a
>value on? Can you provide just another item or two without getting into
>difficulty? Perhaps, a greater understanding of what is important to the
>stations and cable companies would make the delay in the arrival of your
>station on the HD dial easier to accept.

This IS a sensitive area, Stan. We do have "nondisclosure of terms"
language in many of our agreements, and I wouldn't want to do anything to
endanger the agreements (or to cost us money). So, I can't be specific
about existing agreements, but I'll try to generally address this (let's
see how I do).

First thing to understand -- When the station does choose RT Consent
(which they must do three months in advance of the relevant term), they
risk being removed from the system, as they have effectively surrendered
the rights granted by Must Carry. Larger cable systems are ready for this
in a big way, as they have extensive RT document templates just waiting to
be signed. And now, the power is literally in their hands. I really
can't tell you what they might ask for currently, as it's just too close
to what they actually have asked for (and received). I wish I could think
of something general, but it would sound invalid, and silly. It could be
anything, really -- and I can't even hint to the realities.

Here's a possibility-- hypothetically speaking (and a bit silly): If
during the 2000-2001 round of negotiations, a station chose RT Consent to
get money for the analog signal, they might find that cable company coming
back with -- "Forget it . . . oh, and by the way, we want to have your HD
signal when it comes up, too - Free. And we want two dozen lobsters
shipped to our corporate office . . . and a kite -- a RED kite. If you
don't give it to us, we'll drop your analog station, too. Thanks for not
choosing Must Carry." Then the showdown would begin.

However, digital carriage would be a good reason for a station to choose
RT Consent back then. Suppose that Station A knew that they would have
HD up and running sometime during the term, and they knew that Station B
would probably also be up with HD. If Station A chose Must Carry, they
would have nothing to say about HD during that term. They might,
therefore go with RT Consent, and introduce the concept of "favored
nations" treatment. That is, language that might say, for example,"We
know you don't HAVE to carry our HD signal when it comes up, and you don't
have to carry Station B's signal either, but if you DO pick up Station B
in HD, we want the same carriage." Again -- they couldn't even bring it
up if they chose MC. And, of course, the cable operators could not
counter with their terms for digital carriage (including downconversion).
Both parties value the digital carriage (or would value it soon enough),
so RT Consent would be the best way for them to go (though , initially,
that would be up to the station).

Large cable systems are always prepared with their RT demands (full legal
documents just waiting to be sent out), and stations can either go RT to
get something they want (or specific protective language as in the example
above) and see what comes back, or go with MC and take the status quo
carriage. In our experience, RT has been the best way to work toward
mutually beneficial agreements. MC is /was primarily to protect small
local stations in large multi-station markets (independents, for example),
with no real clout (i.e.: Network hits shows). And it worked.

I don't think that this really addresses your CURRENT concerns, but it's
all I'm willing to talk about on this issue, Stan. The past is easier to
address than the present (and future).

Steve Hiltz
Program Director

WABI-TV5

Stan,

Very nice response from WABI. But, I agree with you that action speaks louder... :)

As for your CC info, a switch of territories between Comcast and TWC in the future is always possible I suppose. But, I did read that as far as the Adelphia split up is concerned, all switches are d-o-n-e. Any future switches should be telegraphed by contact with local franchise authorities by the cable cos involved. That's how I got the first inkling about the Comcast takeover of SusCom Brunswick.

As regards CBS on the TWC Augusta system by year's end, my guess is that it will come if at all from WABI and not Sinclair/WGME. One independent station v. a large conglomerate with which to deal. Or, I suppose one might say that it would follow that if Comcast does "take over" the Augusta TWC/Adelphia territory, then of course that system would get CBS from WGME/Sinclair by reason of the Comcast/Sinclair national agreement.

Anyway, it provides a glimmer of hope doesn't it.

Dana

Dana,
No, not in the bill, it was just just a form letter. Nothing about new line-ups or bill changes. If you get internet from Suscom, It'll stay the SusCom-Maine.net email address for a little while. The only HD news was that they added WGME and MPBN. There's nothing to add really. Just a hello and you're now a Comcast customer.

edoug,

Just got my Comcast letter. ;) Thanks for the heads up.

Dana

At the risk of being labelled as the eternal pessimist ;), I figured I should point out that this case doesn't help in regards to the issue of TWC's plan to implement Switched Digital Video. The gist of the problem is that cable cards don't work with SDV, and the wording of the cable card mandate is such that while a cable company is required to provide CableCards, the CCs only have to work with QAM-modulated signals.

Just a heads up for those of you considering a purchase of the TiVo series 3 to use with TWC. I originally thought the S3 would be the answer to everyone's TWC/CBS-HD problem, since it can also record OTA HD, but now it seems likely it won't be able to record TWC's HD.

AccidenT,

I'm not sure if this announcement is an effective optimistic antidote or not. :)

"Washington, D.C. (August 25, 2006) -- TiVo says it will soon release a 'standalone' HDTV Digital Video Recorder for cable TV viewers.

"The 'Series 3' HD DVR will be compatible with all major cable TV providers. (Emphasis supplied.) However, users will need to get a CableCard from their local cable company... " More http://www.tvpredictions.com/tivohddvr082506.htm

Dana

AccidenT,

I'm not sure if this announcement is an effective optimistic antidote or not. :)

"Washington, D.C. (August 25, 2006) -- TiVo says it will soon release a 'standalone' HDTV Digital Video Recorder for cable TV viewers.

"The 'Series 3' HD DVR will be compatible with all major cable TV providers. (Emphasis supplied.) However, users will need to get a CableCard from their local cable company... " More http://www.tvpredictions.com/tivohddvr082506.htm

Dana

Dana,

The article is correct that at release time, the TiVo Series 3 will be compatible with all major Cable providers. However, my point was that if/when TWC starts using Switched Digital Video, the CableCards (and therefore the TiVo Series 3) will no longer be able to receive the channels sent using SDV.

The form welcome letter to SusCom Brunswick customers is signed by "Mary E. McLaughlin, Area Vice President, Comcast Cable Communications, Inc."

A Google search indicates that one "Mary McLaughlin, Area Vice President" provided several responses in a filing before the Vermont Public Service Board with the title of "Area Vice President Administrative Unit: Adelphia Vermont, New Hampshire & Eastern New York Operations" on August 22, 2005.

I doubt that this indicates much other than Ms. McLaughlin was with Adelphia and became a Comcast officer when Comcast acquired the Vermont Adelphia systems as part of the Adelphia breakup. She is likely based in Manchester, NH. No email address but I'm working on it. ;)

Dana

Hello all,

As we all know tonight's Pats game will be carried by WMTW-TV. What is not clear at this point is whether the station will carry the game in HD. The game will originate "in glorious high definition" according to WCVB-TV Boston. But WMTW's own TV listings http://www.wmtw.com/tvlistings/index.html do not confirm that we will see the game in HD in Maine. :( Let's hope so.

BTW. The broadcasters will be Don Criqui on play-by-play and Randy Cross for analysis. WCVB principal sports anchor Mike Lynch offers on-field reports from the sidelines.

For those whose schedule doesn't permit watching tonight's game live or for those who want a double dose, the game will be rebroadcast at 12 Noon tomorrow on the NFL Network in HD!

Dana

If I start missing patriots games I will have direct tv up quicker than you can say cable.

I may switch just for spite whenDirecTV starts carrying locals in HD in October. :D

To sum up last night's Pats game technically, not only was it not in HD but the picture on WMTW-DT as received here on SusCom cable was poor. Fuzzy. Faded. I wound up watching the analog channel which was better. :confused:

The upcoming Thursday night pre-season finale is also likely not going to be any different. :(

Dana

I agree! I have TWC and a 51" screen and the picture quality of the HD channel (508) was noticeably inferior to the analog channel (8). So much so that I also watched the analog channel.
On a separate issue, as a former sat customer (both DirecTV and Dish over the years) I was pleasantly surprised to see in an earlier thread today that DirecTV will bring in the locals in HD in Oct...does it/will it carry NESN? Thank you.
hydrant

Hey hydrant!

Long time, no hear! Sorry to see that your viewing experience was the same as mine last night.

I believe D* is delivering NESN HD to other Red Sox local markets as a function of the spot beam technology, according to other avs threads.

Dana

Watching a few minutes of replay of last night's Pats game on NFL Network in SD on the SusCom Brunswick digital channel today indicates that the picture and sound are better than provided by WMTW on either its analog or digital channel on the live simulcast last night. I don't know of course where the fault lies but the game originated in 1080i HD and the signal was degraded somewhere between Boston and my 1080i HD TV. :confused:

Dana

Watching a few minutes of replay of last night's Pats game on NFL Network in SD on the SusCom Brunswick digital channel today indicates that the picture and sound are better than provided by WMTW on either its analog or digital channel on the live simulcast last night. I don't know of course where the fault lies but the game originated in 1080i HD and the signal was degraded somewhere between Boston and my 1080i HD TV. :confused:

Dana

same story w/WMUR in Manchester but luckily I was able to watch WCVB from Boston in HD

Same thing with WMTW-DT OTA. If the field hadn't had a slight tinge of green, I could have sworn it was a black & white broadcast! The SD analog version through DirecTv looked slightly better, but not much.

Did anyone notice the nice hum-bars rolling up the screen during the game? It's like WMTW pulled it with an crappy antenna and rebroadcast that.

When will locals/NESN HD be up on DTV in Portland????

The Portland locals are scheduled for October. However, from everything I've read in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=683293&page=21&pp=30), only those people receiving Boston locals are able to get NESN HD. There are a lot of people in CT who can get their HD locals through D*, but not NESN HD. Some have "moved" to Boston and receive those locals + NESN HD instead, but I'm not sure if the Boston spotbeam would reach all the way to Portland.

The Portland locals are scheduled for October. However, from everything I've read in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=683293&page=21&pp=30), only those people receiving Boston locals are able to get NESN HD. There are a lot of people in CT who can get their HD locals through D*, but not NESN HD. Some have "moved" to Boston and receive those locals + NESN HD instead, but I'm not sure if the Boston spotbeam would reach all the way to Portland.

I am optimistic about NESN-HD coming to the Portland-Auburn DMA via D* spotbeam.

The reach of the Boston spotbeam doesn't apply to us; we are in a different DMA, one that already qualifies for NESN. There is no Regional Sports Network (RSN) territorial issue here as there is in the Hartford area.

Apparently we'll find out in October. :)

Dana

Hello all,

The final Pats v. NY Giants pre-season game from the Meadowlands was better on WMTW-DT on SusCom Brunswick than last week but that's not saying much. It was about the equal of WMTW-TV's analog channel 8 except that the sound on the digital channel was in stereo here . The analog channel was in mono. Anyway, that's history. All future games should be in HD!

On another front, I finally managed to spark some interest on the part of a Press Herald reporter to do a story on the Comcast takeover of SusCom Brunswick. We'll soon see what he makes of it. :)

Dana

Hello all,

The final Pats v. NY Giants pre-season game from the Meadowlands was better on WMTW-DT on SusCom Brunswick than last week but that's not saying much. It was about the equal of WMTW-TV's analog channel 8 except that the sound on the digital channel was in stereo here . The analog channel was in mono. Anyway, that's history. All future games should be in HD!

On another front, I finally managed to spark some interest on the part of a Press Herald reporter to do a story on the Comcast takeover of SusCom Brunswick. We'll soon see what he makes of it. :)

Dana

Good for you re: the reporter, Dana!

Good for you re: the reporter, Dana!

Stan,

Thanks! He called and "interviewed" me two weeks or more after I'd emailed him. He did have a copy of the form letter sent by Comcast to all SusCom Brunswick subs. I did mention that 85% of Maine's cable viewers could not get CBS in HD. He jumped to the conclusion that Comcast must be the other 15% but I cautioned him that there may be other MSOs in York County and Aroostook. But, that disparity did seem to interest him. :)

He said he was planning to do a story. We'll see how it all comes out. He's already picked up the info that some email subs were nervous about the change in their ISP address. I mentioned that while Comcast offers a "Wizard" to assist in such a transition, it doesn't work with Macs. :( He also said some local franchise authority attorneys were nervous about dealing with a giant such as Comcast.

He did say that the Comcast regional PR person seemed clueless about the SusCom Brunswick transition. The article should be interesting.

I also found out the email address of the Comcast Regional V-P who wrote the mass mailing letter and wrote a nice, polite letter back to her, raising a few issues. No response to this point.

Dana

Hello all,

The story on Comcast's acquisition of SusCom Brunswick, other cable co acquisitions and comments from an Assistant AG are in the Maine Sunday Telegram today and are also online here http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/news/coast/060903cabletv.shtml

Dana

Congratulations, to you and Mr. Hoey. I know that Cable Co. hate give away info of new additions to their product but instead of announcing that rates aren't going up (as opppsed to going down, yeah right) and OLN and Golf maybe this would have been a nice opportunity to announce the addition of NESN HD.
Thanks drbonbi, for all you've done.

Here's a news item posted Sep. 1.

"Time Warner has set Sept. 15 as the cut-off date for the NFL Network on the systems it recently acquired from Comcast and Adelphia."

But, there may be a reprieve.

"NFL Net spokesman Seth Palansky told B&C that the network has reached out to Time Warner about leaving the network on those systems while they try to hammer out a carriage deal, and said that Time Warner has provided 'positive feedback.'"

The complete story is here http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6368257.html?display=Breaking+News

Dana

Dana, you've done a great job. Now, you can go get a story on Time Warner in Maine. (Just kidding.)

Do you know what the lawyer meant with the following?

"I think consolidation will make it harder for towns to negotiate franchise agreements because they have no other place to go. There is no alternative," Scully said. "At least in the past you could make the argument that you could go elsewhere if you didn't like the company you had."

I can't imagine how the town or the subscriber could go elsewhere (different cable company) if you didn't like the company you had. Surely, he doesn't mean that a subscriber could move to a distant community with a different cable company. It is my understanding that very few communities in the United States have more than one cable company available to them.

Stan,

First, thanks for the kind words. The only way I can imagine what the lawyer said making any sense is that a community on the border of one system, such as Freeport is with SusCom Brunswick, could threaten to sign a franchise agreement with the operator of a neighboring system such as TWC which operates the Yarmouth system.

I think it's blowing smoke, frankly. For one thing, it ignores the issue of ownership of the community distribution system - wire, amplifiers, etc. But maybe in the old days when the Brunswick system was owned by relatively small operators - FrontierVision, SusCom - it would be enough of a threat to rattle them. Now that's gone.

Lawyer talk. :rolleyes:

Dana

Congratulations, to you and Mr. Hoey. I know that Cable Co. hate give away info of new additions to their product but instead of announcing that rates aren't going up (as opppsed to going down, yeah right) and OLN and Golf maybe this would have been a nice opportunity to announce the addition of NESN HD.
Thanks drbonbi, for all you've done.

Thank you. I really do think that NESN HD will land on the Comcast Brunswick lineup at some point. I know for a fact that sales reps in the Brunswick office want it ASAP, especially now that D* will likely carry it in October. Even if the Red Sox won't be playing in October, the Bruins will be starting up.

As you say, however, they keep the info inhouse until it suits them.

Dana

Dana, you've done a great job. Now, you can go get a story on Time Warner in Maine. (Just kidding.)...

Stan,

That's not farfetched. Dennis Hoey has a desk in the Press Herald Brunswick office but he writes stories that cover other areas. He just wrote one last week about something in York County - I forget now what the subject was.

Now that he has found out that there was a story behind the tip I gave him, he may be receptive to another suggestion in the future. It doesn't hurt to try. He's already educated about cable operators in Maine. So, don't hesitate to email him at dhoey@pressherald.com You can always say that his great story caught your eye and give him a follow up story idea. ;)

Dana

Dana, you've done a great job. Now, you can go get a story on Time Warner in Maine. (Just kidding.)

Do you know what the lawyer meant with the following?

"I think consolidation will make it harder for towns to negotiate franchise agreements because they have no other place to go. There is no alternative," Scully said. "At least in the past you could make the argument that you could go elsewhere if you didn't like the company you had."

I can't imagine how the town or the subscriber could go elsewhere (different cable company) if you didn't like the company you had. Surely, he doesn't mean that a subscriber could move to a distant community with a different cable company. It is my understanding that very few communities in the United States have more than one cable company available to them.

Stan,

It turns out that there are at least two relatively recent cases in Maine that attorney Scully may have had in mind. Here's a clip from a press release dated
May 02, 2001.

"BANGOR, Maine - A federal judge's ruling upholding the Town of Houlton's decision to discard its long-time cable TV operator in favor of another provider in a dispute over quality and services may loosen the hold cable operators have over communities throughout Maine, a lawyer for the town said.

"The decision by U.S. Magistrate Judge Margaret J. Kravchuk dismissed the final counts of a lawsuit filed last year by Houlton Cable against the Town of Houlton after town officials sought bids and then came to terms with a new cable TV operator.

"The ruling should send a message to all cable TV providers in Maine, said Houlton's attorney, Lee K. Bragg of Bernstein, Shur, Sawyer & Nelson. 'It's difficult for a town to divorce itself from its cable TV provider, and towns across the state have generally felt that they have no choice other than to renew the franchise of the existing company,' Bragg said. 'The Houlton case establishes a procedure which should help other towns create a level playing field with cable companies.'

"The judge's decision is the second major legal victory for a municipality embroiled in a dispute with its cable TV provider over a franchise agreement.

...

"Houlton's legal victory comes on the heels of a federal judge's March dismissal of a lawsuit brought by cable giant Adelphia Communications against the small town of Naples. The judge's ruling in the Naples case, defended as well by Bernstein, Shur municipal lawyers, permits that town to seek competing proposals for cable services.

"As a result of the two recent court cases, Bragg said, cable providers across Maine are now on notice that towns can seek competing proposals and can refuse to renew franchises with current providers in certain situations... "

The entire text can be found here http://www.wolfenews.com/release.taf?id=382&clientid=

BTW. I am putting together a story idea to send to Dennis Hoey on the TWC impasse and its adverse impact on watching the Patriots in HD this fall. :) Of course there's no guarantees it will fly.

Dana

Just last week the Kennebec Journal ran a half page ad for TWC bragging up their HD NFL coverage. Basically BS as we here know. It says that many of their games are in HD. What they don't mention is that most of the Patriots games won't be in HD because WGME/WABI aren't on the HD tier.
Also, at the time of the ad, TWC was planning to pull the plug on the NFL HD feed.
So the clock is ticking on the Patriots opening game this Sunday. Looks like no HD unless a last minute agreement is reached.
Rob

Even though I am willing - and, being retired, have the time - to write Dennis Hoey with the gist of a story idea on the TWC stalemate, he'll want to talk with some TWC cable subs before he writes any article. So, it would be a good idea to contact him at dhoey@pressherald.com and give him your thoughts and your telephone numbers. The more the merrier. :cool:

Dana

Thanks for your work, Dana. Basically, the judge said the obvious. ..........Municipalities do not have to sign agreements for service. .............The thought of no tv from the cable provider would drive town residents to the brink of madness in no time at all and there would be rioting in the streets. Certainly, a town would not be able to wait months for a new provider. (A smart cable company would quickly cut off service to such a town.) The town would soon be willing to sacrifice its first born in return for the restoration of services. This may reflect a cynical attitude on my part, but I believe it is not far from the truth.

Rob, you might want to check above for the e-mails that I received from WABI. It doesn't sound as if they are close to signing an agreement for TWC to carry their digital signal. If they did sign, the Augusta system would have a fairly complete HD lineup and WGME (Sinclair) would lose the chance to make the initial connection with the Central Maine digital viewing public. ........... Have you sent your wife to the roof yet? Considering the weather report, you'd better issue her a raincoat. It would show her that your heart is in the right place.

Let's give the reporter an e-mail.

Stan,
I let her downoff the roof for Labor Day. I'll be seeing the TWC local origination crew shortly as I do some announcing for their local sports. They also have a local call in sports show, Strictly Sports that I am on once a month. The show begins next Monday 7-8. I'll be on the 18th.This might be a good call in question...hint,hint
On of the reasons I want to keep cable is for the local sports they offer. I produce about 15 games a year for them of Gardiner High sports. So, I really want them to work something out with either 5 or 13. But in the meantime I've got plan b ready.
Rob

Maybe I am misunderstanding. I get WGME OTA-HD. Someone said that WGME wasn't on the HD tier

Maybe I am misunderstanding. I get WGME OTA-HD. Someone said that WGME wasn't on the HD tier

BMC321,

Welcome to the thread! The reference to WGME not being "on the HD tier" probably was said in reference to not being available on either Time Warner Cable's Portland system or the Adelphia systems TWC recently acquired. You are fortunate to be able to receive it OTA.

Dana

Hello all,

A press release from Comcast carried today as a news story in The Times Record, an afternoon newspaper published in Brunswick, restates the info about its takeover of SusCom Brunswick provided earlier in the mass mailer sent to subscribers. The newspaper piece is not on the web at this hour.

The story claims that the change affects "more than 50,000 homes in the Brunswick area..." That seems excessive as the SusCom web site, still up and running, claims 21,000+ households here http://www.suscom.com/home/sites/cable_advertising.php?city=brunswick

More to the point, the story contains two surprises. TNT-HD is to be added on Channel 524! While ESPH-HD is claimed as an added channel, it actually is ESPN2-HD that is added on Channel 523.

The other new channels cited are OLN Channel 56; Golf Channel 60; WCSH Weather Plus Channel 166; and Current TV Channel 119. The latter two are on the digital tier.

All of the above channels supposedly "launched today" but at this hour, are MIA. The only obvious change is the Comcast logo in the upper left corner of the on-screen program guide.

Dana

I recently read the thread in the HDTV Programming forum about Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! being available in HD for syndication beginning on Sept. 13th. Here's a transcript of my correspondence with WMTW about whether or not they'll be providing it in HD. The cliff's notes are: No, they're not. I'm not sure why they made the effort to mark the shows as HD in the guide if they didn't have any of the equipment.

Hello,

I've seen a press release that Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! Will be available in HDTV for syndication starting on 9/11. I've also seen that the guide data for channel 8-1 lists these shows as being in HD starting on that day. I just wanted to confirm that your station does, indeed have the necessary equipment to handle HD syndication. Thanks for any information you can provide.

Eric,

At the present time "Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy" are transmitted in SD.

Please know, we have not made any announcements concerning changes to HDTV for these shows from our station.
Thank you for your interests.

Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or updates.

Thank you,

Peter


Peter Magee
Assistant Chief Engineer
WMTW TV


Hi Peter,

The announcement I mentioned wasn't from your station, it was from the producers of the two shows. (http://www.tvpredictions.com/jeopardyhd082106.htm)

From what I've read, it's up to each individual station to make the decision to carry the HD versions, and that some special equipment was required to do so, since they are syndicated shows. When I saw that the guide data for WMTW-DT (8-1) had the episodes of both shows on and after Sept. 13th labelled as HDTV, I assumed that WMTW had decided to carry them in HD and had the necessary equipment. My email was asking for confirmation of that. Based on your reply, I'll assume that it's a case of incorrect guide data.

Eric


Eric,

At this time we do not have the special equipment required to carry "Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy" in HDTV.
We will continue to carry "Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy" in SD and Analog.
Thank you again for your interests.

Regards,

Peter


Peter Magee
Assistant Chief Engineer
WMTW TV

AccidenT,

I also received a rather curious response from Peter Magee today. I had written my contact at WMTW this note on Aug. 29. I tried not to complain - I didn't want to bite the hand that was feeding me a pre-season Pats game - and suggested a technical issue might be in play. Here's my email.

I was disappointed in the lack of a quality picture on WMTW-DT for the Patriots game last Saturday night Aug. 26. It was fuzzy and washed out. The game looked better on your analog channel. :-(

Apparently, the problem may have been with the feed from WCVB, as viewers watching WMUR-TV Ch. 9 in Manchester reported the same thing over the air.

Any chance the problem will be rectified for Thursday night's game from NYC?

My contact apparently referred the technical question to Peter. Here's his response received today, long after last Thursday night's game is over.

"The Pre Season Games in the past two years would have been blacked out and we are bringing them to you as a service from our Sister Station WCVB.

"Thank you for your concerns. The regular NFL Season Games we do not carry.

"Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or updates.

"Thank you,

"Peter"

This comes pretty close to saying that I should be damn glad to get the game at all, and completely ignores the technical question I was raising. Oh well.

Dana

Wow, it's an eerie combination of form letter customized by robot.

I have had the channels here in Brunswick since this morning. You may have to reboot your digital box in order to get the new channels. They are coming in clear here.


Chris

I have had the channels here in Brunswick since this morning. You may have to reboot your digital box in order to get the new channels. They are coming in clear here.
Chris

Chris,

You're right!!!! Thanks a bunch. :)

Dana

Closer review indicates that the Comcast press release was bungled somewhere along the way. ESPN-HD remains on Channel 526. ESPN2-HD is added on Channel 523.

Dana

Come on NESN HD!!!

Actually, I guess it doesn't matter with the Red Sox season going the way it has!

"There's always next year!!"

I'm pretty excited about ESPN2 though! :)

Chet,

I understand that while CBS Paramount Domestic Television has remastered the original Star Trek series, very few stations (if any) will be carrying the HD 1080i version of the show. On StarTrek.com, they cryptically say,
Will the episodes be broadcast in 1080i 4:3 HD and 5.1?
At the current time, the majority of affiliate stations cannot handle HD transmission unless they are live events (sports, news, etc.). As stations develop their capacity to air things in HD, CBS/Paramount TV will certainly be working with them towards that goal.

Can you tell us if WPXT will be broadcasting the series in HD?

(For those who don't know, the series will be rebroadcast beginning Sept. 16th. CBS Paramount says they have completely remastered/digitized the original series, including making special effects look better ala George Lucas. This includes the images of the Enterprise zipping into space as well as adding CGI generated figures in the background in spaceports and the like.)

Thanks!

Joe

I for one, would welcome an updated rerun of the older rerun, if in HD. Lots of sitcoms are in HD, why not TOS?

I for one, would welcome an updated rerun of the older rerun, if in HD. Lots of sitcoms are in HD, why not TOS?

That's two questions LOL

1) Because older shows like this have to be converted to HD. Modern sitcoms are filmed digitally or using high definition cameras. Anything on film or old analog video needs to be converted. Until now, the only network that I know of that has taken the trouble to do this is HDNet (the Avengers, Hogan's Heroes, etc). It's a lot of work but hopefully in this case worth it.

2) If I understand correctly, the trouble with broadcasting this show is that many of the (smaller) local stations with syndication rights have older or less expensive equipment which allows them to pass throgh an HD broadcast via the network satellite feed, but not to insert an HD signal locally. Because this is a syndicated show it is delivered by the distributer, which isn't the network. Therefore, some local broadcasters CAN'T broadcast the HD version of the show.

It isn't clear to me from the FAQ I quoted above whether CBS Paramount is providing the HD signal for those who want it, or just not doing it at all at this time.

Hence my question for Chet.

Joe

DrJoe,
I might of thought that the stations obtained the "feeds" via satellite. In the -old- days, we used to be able to catch almost all shows via wildfeeds w/o commericials, but dead air. Instead of C band now it's digital-distribution, I thought may be simular? Because, syndicated and national were both delivered via sat. Don't tell me they use brown?

Perhaps Chet can address that question.

I have to admit that I don't have any hard knowledge. I just picked up the impression that the satellite feeds are more direct nowadays -- that you have to have the proper receivers, and that each network used proprietary equipment. This mostly comes from discussions I had with an engineer at the FOX affiliate back in Austin before I moved here. As far as syndicated shows go, I have no clue how they are "delivered" to the station. I would find it hard to believe that they are just thrown out on C-Band anymore, in this age of digital piracy.

Back in Austin, there was a CBS station that initially only had the ability to pass through the network HD feed -- and that meant that we always got the network college football and NFL games of the week in HD rather than the game which was chosen locally. I know that ABC here has the ability to switch -- last Saturday they switched from the Oregon game in HD to the Ohio State game in standard. I don't know about the other stations.


Joe

From Lygnsat there are various forms of digital transmission with many encryption types- I too am interested in what actions/decisions are needed to broadcast an HD signal. Thanks. Good to see you on this thread.

Checking in I see a question on syndicated programs in HD and local stations broadcasting them. Speaking for WGME this is where we are at. We pass CBS in HD using an A/B type switcher. The "A" side is the CBS HD feed the "B" side is local analog 4x3 material going into a "1080i up-converter that feeds our DT transmitter. We can go between the two sources at will but that is it. So in our case we currently can not air local programing in HD for a couple of reasons.
1.We need to upgrade or Master Control from analog to a Digital infrastructure we then can switch a number of digital sources to air, some in HD when "available"...... But the second part of this is just as necessary, we have to replace our current program storage and playback equipment, as they are not HD capable either. Syndicated programs are feed at all times of the day and night so stations capture them and play them back at a latter date and time. Once the HD storage and playback equipment is installed we could then run HD syndicated programming as we currently do with our analog programs. That is what it will take for local HD at WGME, in that part of our broadcast operation.........

Then there is the studio, it's associated control room, and equipment used just for our newscasts. That needs to be replaced too for locally produced HD programming$

WGME plans to begin this transformation soon however. 1st phase is our Master Control area in early 2007. We will be building a new digital Master Control room, no on air date set but I've cleared space in our tech-core for the new equipment. The plan is not to touch current analog operations during construction( if at all possible) and cut over to the new Digital Master Control room once we are satisfied the room functions as expected. Once this is completed we move onto News/ studio later in 2007. I don't see HD from news right away, the control room will go digital but all the field equipment will need to be replaced too as it is not HD, bottom line we need to replace 95% of our equipment, good by analog!

I will keep you all updated as we move forward.

Craig

Thanks for the description Craig! This is SO much more complicated than one might think. It is very nice there are station personnel like you around willing to demystify things!

I would guess that most of the other local broadcasters are facing similar challenges.

take care,

Joe

Thanks a lot for the info, Craig.

Here's some TV trivia for Sunday's Pats v. Buffalo game.

According to the Pats web site "The (CBS) network's number one crew will cover the game. Jim Nantz will handle play-by-play duties and Phil Simms will provide analysis." But, does that mean that most of the country will get to see the game?

In a word - no. According to this web site http://www.gribblenation.net/nflmaps/01-CBS.gif the Pats-Buffalo game will get the smallest geographic area distribution. ;)

Dana

Just posting to say hello and to join the few HD viewers in the Portland, ME area. I just recently installed my HDTV (Syntax Olevia LT32HVE) and set top box (Scientific Atlanta Explorer 3250HD) and the HD is just incredibly awesome!

I tried hooking it up to my ATI AIW X800XT via DVI and HD comes in like SD but with a zagged vertical line on the left. At some point soon I'll try hooking it up via component connections and see if that makes a difference. Anyone else try this?

Also, I'm looking for an online/internet listing for all HD channels available from Time Warner Cable. Generally I use the following URL:

http://www.udigtv.com/twc/twcmg/sg.aspx?txtzip=04102&hid=87677&luname=Time+Warner+Cable+-+Cumberland+County+Digital&pgid=1

...but it looks like it doesn't have all the channels (i.e. available with HD Tier service), only the ones available with Digital Cable service. Any pointers are appreciated.

Hi volish,

Welcome to the thread! Personally, I use titantv.com. Even though it isn't up-to-date with every recent change in my SusCom/Comcast lineup, I can customize the grid to include the stations I do get - and suppress the stations in which I'm not interested. Hope this helps.

Dana

Hi volish,

Welcome to the thread! Personally, I use titantv.com. Even though it isn't up-to-date with every recent change in my SusCom/Comcast lineup, I can customize the grid to include the stations I do get - and suppress the stations in which I'm not interested. Hope this helps.

Dana

drbonbi, try Zap2it, you can customize it and has all the new channels added within the last week.


http://tvlistings5.zap2it.com/tvlistings/GridAction.do?zipcode=04011

volsh, here'sfor Gorham.

http://tvlistings5.zap2it.com/tvlistings/GridAction.do?lineupId=ME18440%3aX

This might be useful:
www.HDSportsGuide.com

Sorry for the delay. The official answer is "the only HD programming we air is network programming." However, I am looking into it. There are some technical issues that have to be worked out. Since it is starting so soon, don't hold your breath. I'll let you know when I find out more.

As far as DirecTV and the info guides go, I finally talked to someone at Tribune who actually knows something. The wheels are turning!

Chet Cook
Engineer
WPXT-TV/WPME-TV


Chet,

I understand that while CBS Paramount Domestic Television has remastered the original Star Trek series, very few stations (if any) will be carrying the HD 1080i version of the show. On StarTrek.com, they cryptically say,


Can you tell us if WPXT will be broadcasting the series in HD?

(For those who don't know, the series will be rebroadcast beginning Sept. 16th. CBS Paramount says they have completely remastered/digitized the original series, including making special effects look better ala George Lucas. This includes the images of the Enterprise zipping into space as well as adding CGI generated figures in the background in spaceports and the like.)

Thanks!

Joe

Since many on this thread cannot get CBS in HD through no fault of their own, I am going to refrain from posting any oohs and aahs about Patriots HD broadcasts on CBS. Besides, it isn't clear that every Pats game on CBS will be in HD this season since it turns out that it can only afford to so broadcast three NFL games each week!

"Tony Petitti, CBS Sports' executive vice president, says the network will not air more games in HD because it focused instead on building a new HD studio for The NFL Today, the network's pre-game show which will air in high-def.

"The network exec says he expects that all CBS games will be in high-def by 2008 or 2009."

Meanwhile, "Fox, which has the NFC (National Football Conference), will broadcast just about every game in high-def; ESPN will air all Monday Night Football games in HD as will NBC with Sunday Night Football."

CBS can't afford it? Give me a break. The entire story is here http://www.tvpredictions.com/cbscheap090806.htm

Dana

Is anyone else having a signal problem with WCSH on comcast. The picture has been snowy for the last hour or so.

Is anyone else having a signal problem with WCSH on comcast. The picture has been snowy for the last hour or so.

No problem here on Bailey Island.

Dana

CBS can't afford it?

Dana
The situation; untill 2009, they broadcast station policy. My opinion.

This isn't only a problem with CBS sports -- big time college football games, PGA events, and tennis tournaments are often left in the cold on the other networks.

I really got annoyed with ESPN last year when major college games would be instandard def -- they didn't have enough high def trucks to cover all of the college games due to the trucks being at professional events (but curiously enough ESPN2 had an HD truck assigned to it, so their game was in high def -- I was shocked one weekend when Ohio State was in standard def on ESPN but my alma mater Ohio U was in HD on ESPN2).

On the opening week of NCAA football, ABC had the Oregon/Stanford game in HD but not the (locally shown) Ohio State/Northern Illinois game.

I don't tend to watch the NFL very much anymore (I grew up in Cleveland and left the NFL when the old Browns left for Baltimore, and haven't fully returned) -- so I find the lack of college games in HD to be more problematic for me.

FOX deserves a lot of credit for standardizing all of their equipment in high definition. I don't think Any of the other broadcasters have done that yet.

Joe

DrJoe,
Isn't HD just digital gravy? Driven by consumers who have seen these nice flat panels,lcd,crt,dlp, and plasma, etc.,showing the potential of HD. We all love to see our sports, shows, and movies in HD. My understanding is that the mandatory changeover to digital, is to digital, which HD is a product. So a station could comply by switching to digital and having greater channel capability by broadcasting more SD channels. They have made a consious effort and as Chet explained, monetary effort to bring us HD. So revenues must be enough to justify this HD and digital changeover, for local stations (which are owned by larger companies) other wise , just feed cable and satellite a national feed and let us antenna jockies watch digital SD. Also, when datacasting becomes viable and a competitor to ATTs and cable, more bandwith will be needed. Where will it come from, or is the bandwith expandable? I see my HD future in HD DVD or Blueray and satellite, because the digital signal is not reliable on the fringes. Try to watch with freezing, dropouts and your opinion changes, digital is not all or nothing. Try to watch Jeopardy with 5 second lapses.

An interview with Comcast COO Steve Burke has just been posted in which he says in part that "... he expects Comcast to offer up to 35 HD channels next year and to soon provide high-def feeds of regional sports channels."

Comcast is feeling the heat nationally from satellite providers and competitors such as Verizon's FIOS. Surely competition will drive TWC to similarly expand its HD offerings.

The interview is here http://www.tvpredictions.com/burke091306.htm

Dana

From the USAToday:

"... The NFL Network will offer deja vu doubleheaders Tuesday and Wednesday nights. On Wednesday: Buffalo Bills-New England Patriots (8 ET) and Indianapolis Colts-New York Giants (10:30).

"The replays will delete insignificant plays to turn the games into 90-minute shows. Postgame comments will be spliced in after big plays. NFL Films' sideline sounds and shots will be added. And many viewers couldn't have seen these games anyway. CBS' coverage of the Patriots' win — oops, hope we haven't ruined it for you — went to 10% of U.S. households. Bet on it: Eventually, entire NFL seasons will be replayed on TV."

More here http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/hiestand-tv/2006-09-12-hiestand-nfl_x.htm

I hope that the former Adelphia systems still have NFL Network SD and HD up.

Dana

From the USAToday:

"... The NFL Network will offer deja vu doubleheaders Tuesday and Wednesday nights. On Wednesday: Buffalo Bills-New England Patriots (8 ET) and Indianapolis Colts-New York Giants (10:30).

"The replays will delete insignificant plays to turn the games into 90-minute shows. Postgame comments will be spliced in after big plays. NFL Films' sideline sounds and shots will be added. And many viewers couldn't have seen these games anyway. CBS' coverage of the Patriots' win — oops, hope we haven't ruined it for you — went to 10% of U.S. households. Bet on it: Eventually, entire NFL seasons will be replayed on TV."

More here http://www.usatoday.com/sports/columnist/hiestand-tv/2006-09-12-hiestand-nfl_x.htm

I hope that the former Adelphia systems still have NFL Network SD and HD up.

Dana

Wow, so the TWC customers who couldn't watch the Pats on WGME in HD are now able to not watch them on the NFL network in HD? :D

I plan to have a discussion with my new friends at TWC. Can someone tell me when Direct TV plans to offer locals in HD? I seem to remember October discussed on an earlier posting.
Rob

I was checking out the cost comparison between TWC and Direct TV and they had a note that Portland locals were coming in October.
BTW, the cost comparison was, surprisingly, in favor of staying with TWC. I have digitial phone, Road Runner, and the HD package, and DVR. In order to keep the phone and the RR, and get the same level of service through DirectTV, it would end up costing me about 10 bucks more a month (after the 4 month promo they have expires...which I must say is pretty appealing.) Then again, I'm sure TWC knows that already! Only ESPN2 is making me think hard about DirectTV now.

I have done the Time Warner vs DTV price comparison before too. You might want to double check the $10 extra for digital phone and road runner. If memory serves, you get the lower priced by having 2 of the services so phone and rr count towards that. I get hammered because I have 4 tv's hooked up but unless TW gets its act in gear soon and gets CBS and the NFL network in HD I will probably be leaving come October. Especially if DTV carries fox in high def.

See in the end it isn't the local CBS channel that loses by not giving TW the high def for free, its Time Warner that loses by not offering it to me.

...
See in the end it isn't the local CBS channel that loses by not giving TW the high def for free, its Time Warner that loses by not offering it to me.

Well said. TWC acts as if they don't have competition. But the consumer has choices. That's why I left SusCom for D* - and didn't return until Comcast took over.

Dana

Those considering a move to D* may be interested in an interview with Eric Shanks, DIRECTV's executive vice president for entertainment, just posted here http://www.tvpredictions.com/shanks091406.htm in which he says more national HD channels are coming in 2007.

Dana

Sorry for the delay. The official answer is "the only HD programming we air is network programming." However, I am looking into it. There are some technical issues that have to be worked out. Since it is starting so soon, don't hold your breath. I'll let you know when I find out more.

As far as DirecTV and the info guides go, I finally talked to someone at Tribune who actually knows something. The wheels are turning!

Chet Cook
Engineer
WPXT-TV/WPME-TV

FYI, earlier this week I started seeing correct guide data for 35-1 and 51-1 on my DirecTV HD-Tivo. The only odd thing I noticed is that instead of replacing the old channels that only had "regular schedule", these appeared in addition to them. Tuning to either version took me to the same actual channel. I just removed the ones with no guide data from the "channels I recieve" list. Thanks for your efforts!

Well said. TWC acts as if they don't have competition. But the consumer has choices. That's why I left SusCom for D* - and didn't return until Comcast took over.

Dana

A person might want to be careful, however. After more than 2 years of reading the forum, I find that the broad consensus is that Direct and Dish are considered by many as HD Lite. I have no personal verification, but this comment is common on the forum. Reportedly, these providers do not have the bandwidth necessary for an excellent picture and cable does at this time.

Cable has been and remains my preferred method for television, however, I am glad that satellite is available as competition. The latter seems to be a very good choice for analog and even HD in many cases, but until they get a few more birds so they can have more bandwidth for each of their HD channels, I'll hang with cable.

If WABI and WGME don't fork over their digital signal pretty soon, however, I'll start thinking about alternatives.

Wouldn't you know it?! The first thread I saw after writing the above was this one:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=634339

Some of the comments are quite jarring to anyone considering this alternative for receiving HD. Of course, over the air is best. After that, it's cable for the other HD channels.

Holy Smackers! This is the very next thread I came to:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=723753

Naturally, there are many, so I will stop here. ............. By the way, I don't work for cable.

Stan,

Having tried both, I tend to agree with you.

I recall reading many of the complaints about HD lite when I was reading the D* forums as a D* customer. My impression at the time was that anything other than 1080i was what critics called "lite." But, as we know, ESPN-HD Monday Night Football in 720p looks terrific - to me anyway. To be honest, I never quite understood the complaints since I didn't see the issue myself - at that time.

But, that was before the HD local into local spot beams were rolled out. I have read that OTA reception of local HD stations still has better PQ than LIL HD spot beams - to some people anyway.

Faced as I was with no chance of getting CBS in HD with SusCom (read no Pats in HD) two years ago, I bolted to D* - the irony being that then I got WGME/CBS in HD from D* OTA via an antenna they supplied and installed! But that was more than SusCom could do for me at the time.

Now that I'm back on SusCom/Comcast cable, I think it is better overall. But, the reason D* is claiming it will add many more HD channels in 2007 is that they are scheduled to put up another satellite next year. That will provide more bandwidth.

If Comcast hadn't taken SusCom over and brought WGME/CBS in HD on line, I'd still be with D*. But that's about programming. On my set and with my (old) eyes, cable looks better.

Dana

Hello all,

Andrew Neff of the Bangor Daily News says in his column today "Barring a two-minute drill that would impress even Tom Brady, former Adelphia ... cable television subscribers will be tackled for a loss this weekend..." :(

More here http://bangordailynews.com/news/t/sports.aspx?articleid=140498&zoneid=147

Dana

FYI, earlier this week I started seeing correct guide data for 35-1 and 51-1 on my DirecTV HD-Tivo. The only odd thing I noticed is that instead of replacing the old channels that only had "regular schedule", these appeared in addition to them. Tuning to either version took me to the same actual channel. I just removed the ones with no guide data from the "channels I recieve" list. Thanks for your efforts!

Just checked my Samsung OTA tuner. Still no guide info available for 35.1 or 51.1. The same with my Dish 411....all OTA stations have EPG informaton except 35.1 and 51.1

John

A person might want to be careful, however. After more than 2 years of reading the forum, I find that the broad consensus is that Direct and Dish are considered by many as HD Lite. I have no personal verification, but this comment is common on the forum. Reportedly, these providers do not have the bandwidth necessary for an excellent picture and cable does at this time.

Cable has been and remains my preferred method for television, however, I am glad that satellite is available as competition. The latter seems to be a very good choice for analog and even HD in many cases, but until they get a few more birds so they can have more bandwidth for each of their HD channels, I'll hang with cable.

If WABI and WGME don't fork over their digital signal pretty soon, however, I'll start thinking about alternatives.
Stan,

Refreshing my recollections based on the two threads you posted, I think the critics contention is that HD-Lite is like EDTV, a definition of which is here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enhanced-definition_television Note that some TV stations broadcasting multiple digital channels are said to resort to the same resolution to save on bandwidth. In any event, it's not true high-def (720p or 1080i) quality. HD Lite is discussed here http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hd_lite

Dana

For SusCom/Comcast Brunswick cable subs, I noticed no signal on Channel 173 MPBN DT or Channel 503 MPBN/PBS HD last night and this AM here. Black but the guide info shows. I've reported it by phone and the rep said it was a "broadcast issue" but at least it has been noted.

MPBN Analog Channel 11 is OK here.

Dana

Analog channel 11? Maine Public Broadcasting doesn't have an analog channel on 11. The closest PBS on analog channel 11 is WENH-TV from Durham, NH.

Analog channel 11? Maine Public Broadcasting doesn't have an analog channel on 11. The closest PBS on analog channel 11 is WENH-TV from Durham, NH.

I should have clarified that I was referring to SusCom/Comcast cable channel 11. OTA it's WCBB Augusta Channel 10. :o

Dana

Dana, I believe that a tv signal can be "true HD" 720P or 1080I and still be of degraded quality because it is not assigned enough bandwidth to contain all bits of information in the original signal. (This is not to be confused with the problem of a person receiving a full bandwidth signal but viewing it on an enhanced definition, not high definition, tv set.)

Direct and Dish are sending 720P and 1080I pictures out, but are subtracting bits of data that create a high grade picture. This serves to build their overall capacity for channels carried. Some cable companies are accused of this as well, however, I just read something from Comcast where they denied doing it. They said they send out what they receive. Television stations do it when they use some of their assigned bandwidth for money making sub-channels. It's going to be the new game of the HD industry. Who is stealing from the signal the consumer eventually receives? Is it the originator (for whatever reason, I cannot imagine), the direct broadcast satellite company, the cable company or the local station?

Stan,

Quite frankly, it's a bit confusing as to who is doing what but clearly the end result is degradation of the signal to the TV. That Wikipedia discussion on HD Lite I cited earlier indicates that Time Warner Cable is one of the suspects in "some cities." (?) But clearly, DirecTV and Dish are more frequently blamed so your suggestion about the need for caution before switching to one of them is good advice. Based on my experience I would say don't switch unless it's for "must have" programming you can't get from your local cable provider or OTA because the PQ may not be as good as cable.

Speaking of OTA, we seem to lack in Maine professional HDTV antenna installers. It may well be that between cable and D* switching to LIL HD spot beams, antennas are passé. But it's hard to find any dealers/installers for whatever reason.

Dana

For the last five days I have been having probs with WCSH every afternoon. Also, when WCSH goes down, after a few minutes my internet connection goes down. Comcast doesn't know what is happening and they are sending a tech on Monday. I'll keep you updated.

I know it's been a week since 09-Sep but I just wanted to say thanks to drbonbi and edoug for the welcome and the alternate online channel listing. I double checked and it looks like the listing I'm using from TW has all the channels.

I also found out from numerous tests that the problem with the zagged vertical line is actually caused by the coax out-port on the Scientific Atlanta Explorer 3250HD set top box. Previously I hooked it up directly to my HDTV with component and didn't have the issue, but when I tried it directly with coax it was there, so it looks like TW needs to give me a new HD set top box to solve it. I don't know if this problem is with all the SA Explorer 3250HDs but I guess I'll find out as soon as I get a replacement. If anyone has any experience with these using the coax-out port I'd appreciate any pointers.

I know it's been a week since 09-Sep but I just wanted to say thanks to drbonbi and edoug for the welcome and the alternate online channel listing. I double checked and it looks like the listing I'm using from TW has all the channels.

I also found out from numerous tests that the problem with the zagged vertical line is actually caused by the coax out-port on the Scientific Atlanta Explorer 3250HD set top box. Previously I hooked it up directly to my HDTV with component and didn't have the issue, but when I tried it directly with coax it was there, so it looks like TW needs to give me a new HD set top box to solve it. I don't know if this problem is with all the SA Explorer 3250HDs but I guess I'll find out as soon as I get a replacement. If anyone has any experience with these using the coax-out port I'd appreciate any pointers.

volish,

I have my SA 3250 HD connected by DVI for video. I connect audio via Optical Audio out to a home theater setup. Are you saying that you are connecting the SA 3250HD via the "Cable Out" coax connector to your TV? That is an analog SDTV out connection with mono audio so I doubt it. The only two ways to get HD video are via Component or DVI. If you are connecting an RCA cable to the Yellow Video Out connection, you get SDTV.

BTW. There's an extensive avsforum thread on the SA 3250 HD box here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=346428&highlight=3250 There's also helpful info on the Scientific Atlanta site here http://www.scientificatlanta.com/consumers_new/CableBoxes/3250hd.htm Register for the Explorer eClub to get manuals, etc.

But, I'm happy to help here if I can.

Dana

drbonbi,

Thanks for the post. My media center uses an ATI AIW X800XT video board to pipe all video/audio through my PC and it has two possible input channels, one via coax and one via composite/s-video. From there I pipe the video from DVI-D on the video board to DVI-D on my HDTV and the audio from the R/L connectors from the video board to the HDTV R/L connectors on the same channel as the DVI-D port.

I've found that even if I use the composite/S-video input on the video board, it still has the vertical zagged line on the left, so it definitely looks like the set top box is not working correctly.

I choose to use the coax out on the SA Explorer 3250HD because I assumed it would still carry the HD transmission without downgrading. I'm very surprised to read that the box has a downgraded signal on the coax out port as I won't get HD quality content piped to my media center.

I guess this means I need to find an HD set top box that will support HD transmission on a coax out port. It seems ridiculous to me that there would be a signal quality difference between coax-in and coax-out but it seems a lot of these kinds of devices are designed poorly and for only one or two HD configurations.

If you have any suggestions as to other HD set top boxes that support HD quality signal on coax-out that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again for the info.

Star Trek looked pretty good last night on WPXT -Ship and backdrops look alot better.

drbonbi,

...

I guess this means I need to find an HD set top box that will support HD transmission on a coax out port. It seems ridiculous to me that there would be a signal quality difference between coax-in and coax-out but it seems a lot of these kinds of devices are designed poorly and for only one or two HD configurations.

If you have any suggestions as to other HD set top boxes that support HD quality signal on coax-out that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again for the info.

volsh,

From earlier comment on this thread, it appears that the only other HD STB now offered by TWC Portland is the SA 8300HD DVR. (That's also the case with SusCom/Comcast Brunswick.) Reviewing the connection info from SA on that box, it is the much same as the SA3250HD. The Cable Out coax connection provides SDTV video but with stereo audio.

I think this design is intentional so as to conform with HDCP requirements.

Dana

drbonbi,

Thanks for the post. My media center uses an ATI AIW X800XT video board to pipe all video/audio through my PC and it has two possible input channels, one via coax and one via composite/s-video. From there I pipe the video from DVI-D on the video board to DVI-D on my HDTV and the audio from the R/L connectors from the video board to the HDTV R/L connectors on the same channel as the DVI-D port.

I've found that even if I use the composite/S-video input on the video board, it still has the vertical zagged line on the left, so it definitely looks like the set top box is not working correctly.

I choose to use the coax out on the SA Explorer 3250HD because I assumed it would still carry the HD transmission without downgrading. I'm very surprised to read that the box has a downgraded signal on the coax out port as I won't get HD quality content piped to my media center.

I guess this means I need to find an HD set top box that will support HD transmission on a coax out port. It seems ridiculous to me that there would be a signal quality difference between coax-in and coax-out but it seems a lot of these kinds of devices are designed poorly and for only one or two HD configurations.

If you have any suggestions as to other HD set top boxes that support HD quality signal on coax-out that would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again for the info.

Volsh, you won't find an HD box that supports and HD quality picture over coax-out, because it's not technically possible. There's not enough bandwidth. What you need to keep in mind is that when the signal goes through coax into the box, it is compressed. When it leaves the box, it's uncompressed. Only a component video or DVI/HDMI connection can carry the uncompressed HD signal to the TV.


Your best bet is to connect the component video or HDMI port on your cable box directly to your TV. The separately connect the coax, composite or s-video out on your cable box to your video card to take care of any capturing needs.

As far as I know, there aren't any existing consumer-level video capture cards that have component in or DVI/HDMI in. I have heard about a professional-level one with component-in but I think it costs somewhere around $5000.

I'm a bit surprised that your biggest complaint about passing the video through your capture card was the zig-zag line and not the much-reduced picture quality. I'm guessing you're in for a jaw-dropping experience when you finally hook the box directly to the TV and get an HD-quality picture :D

Hello all,

Anyone else having problems receiving MPBN-DT or MPBN-HD? Still dark on the SusCom/Comcast Brunswick system. Supposedly "broadcast issues."

Dana

It's still down as of 4:30 pm.

Also,Comcast has solved some of the probs with the connection. It was a bad amplifier up the road from me. At least its working right now.


Chris

It's still down as of 4:30 pm.

Also,Comcast has solved some of the probs with the connection. It was a bad amplifier up the road from me. At least its working right now.

Chris

:)

Dana

PS. How about feedback from folks on the former Adelphia system or OTA reception of MPBN-DT or MPBN-HD. Is there really a broadcast outage?

MPBN-HD up on TWC.

MPBN-HD up on TWC.

Thanks! Since the Comcast rep claimed it was a "broadcast issue," I've emailed MPBN to see what they say, now that I know it's not. ;)

Since the Guide info for both channels remains on screen on Comcast, I'm hopeful it's some backroom technical problem and not a programming change.

BTW. Quite a bit of intermittant pixelation on Comcast's channel 525 carriage of Monday Night Football on ESPN-HD last night. I thought for a minute I was back on D*. :rolleyes:

Dana

Stan,

As you were saying. Now it's in court!

"A DIRECTV subscriber has sued the satcaster, claiming it has fraudulently lowered the picture resoluton on its HDTV channels. And, thus far, a judge may be siding with the subscriber." http://www.tvpredictions.com/directvlawsuit092006.htm

Dana

Without any explanation, MPBN-DT and MPBN/PBS-HD channels are now back up on Comcast. :)

Just as a guess, I'd say my email to MPBN - not answered at this moment - did the trick. (In early August the then relatively new to SusCom/Comcast WGME/CBS HD and WGME DT Tube Music Network channels went black. At that time, not being sure who to call to get someone local in engineering at SusCom - I still don't - I called Craig Clark. He was able to get both channels back on the SusCom system promptly.)

Of course there's the distinct possibility that I had nothing to do with it. Anyway, the missing MPBN channels are baaack!

Dana

Thanks drbonbi and AccidenT for the clarification and suggestions.

I did wind up replacing the SA Explorer 3250HD with a new one and the vertical bar is gone. Really glad about that since now I'm getting a really clean picture.

I didn't know of the compression/decompression function that the HD set top box does. It's good to know exactly what each component is doing, especially when trying to decide the best configuration for the available equipment.

I have to say that the ATI board with the Olevia shows SD extremely well. I have viewed HD over the Olevia directly and certainly it is better than SD, but most of the stations I watch are SD and it looks like the ATI board is doing some filtering or video enhancement so it provides a really sharp picture quality, even for SD.

So, the upshot is, I can still record in SD and watch in HD by switching the input to component when necessary. It may not be the top of the line setup but it works really great for me (and is ALOT less expensive!).

...one more thing. When I returned the set top box to TW they said they didn't guarantee the quality of the coax-out. I don't know why they said this, but I figured I'd pass it along for the record. It seems to work great for my purposes, even though it is standard definition.

Any sign of an updated HD DVR at Suscom / Comcast?

Any sign of an updated HD DVR at Suscom / Comcast?

I have no info to share on new hardware. The last word I heard was that Comcast signed a deal with TiVo for software that would run on existing Comcast HD DVRs and it is in beta testing. Since Comcast still hasn't really integrated the SusCom system into its New England Division, I doubt that we'll get a whiff of it for some time to come.

Dana

...one more thing. When I returned the set top box to TW they said they didn't guarantee the quality of the coax-out. I don't know why they said this, but I figured I'd pass it along for the record. It seems to work great for my purposes, even though it is standard definition.

A couple of comments:

The main reason I think they say this is because of the way the coax output on the STB works. It doesn't "pass through" the coax signal.

It "tunes" (demodulates) the analog stations, and it converts the digital stations to broadband, and then, for the coax output, it remodulates them onto channel 3 or 4, and the modulator is usually mono.

see

http://archive.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=33552&highlight=modulator

It's a very old post, and I don't know if the newer cable boxes have stereo modulators or not. I do know, that when I recorded coaxial video off of Explorer 2X00 boxes back in the day, it was always monoaural.

Generally speaking, the less video conversion you do, the better the picture is. So you'll very likely get a better picture (and stereo sound) if you input the coaxial cable feed directly into your television tuner, or if you use the "higher" video outputs on the STB.

Joe

I have been strictly a cable-tv guy until now, but I just picked up a Tivo Series 3 which also has over-the-air capacity. I would like to (reasonably) maximize my OTA reception, especially to try to get the Patriot's games in HD.

What antennaes do you recommend and where can you buy them? I live in West Falmouth, which is hilly country.

Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Hi Bill,

I live in South Portland and use a small indoor Terk amplified antenna that I got from radio shack (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2417014) . It's currently in a room on the 2nd story of my house, and i get ~90% signal strength from WGME, WCSH, WMTW, WPXT and WPME. According to www.antennaweb.org, Falmouth is about 6 miles closer to the WGME towers than I am, so you shouldn't need anything super large/powerful. I would also recommend putting your whole address in at the antennaweb site and seeing what antenna recommendations they give.

Falmouth can be a tricky area. Depending on where you are, you may have great luck or bad luck. If you're close to the coast, you'll have to think about a bigger, rooftop, antenna to get up over the downslope to the water. If you're inland, or elevated in some way, a smaller set top one might do the trick.
My folks are on the water and when I was trying to get them setup I got Zero from the set top antenna, and even the roof mount antenna was touch and go. Thankfully, WGME has been the easiest signal for me to pick up, and that's all we need for the Pats! (and NCAA Hoops)
Radio shack is a good bet. You can start with a set top option, give it awhirl, and if you get nothing, you can return it for an aerial. That's what I did. I'm in Cumberland Center and was able to get away with attic mounting an aerial. The only station I can't get a good lock on is MPBN, but I recieve it through TWC so I don't sweat it.
GOOD LUCK!

I'm on Blackstrap hill in Falmouth, so I shouldn't have the coastal issues. The antenna (a terk, but not amplified) is presently in the basement which is a lousy location, so I am going to try to get it elevated and see if I can get more than one channel.

I have been strictly a cable-tv guy until now, but I just picked up a Tivo Series 3 which also has over-the-air capacity. I would like to (reasonably) maximize my OTA reception, especially to try to get the Patriot's games in HD.

What antennaes do you recommend and where can you buy them? I live in West Falmouth, which is hilly country.

Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks.

BL,

I did extensive research on OTA HD antennas a year ago and finally settled on Antennas Direct http://www.antennasdirect.com/ because their DB-2 and DB-4 antennas were highly rated in actual use and they will take the antenna back if it doesn't work at your location! I ordered a DB-4 only to discover that it was too much antenna - the signal was too strong. And they took it back no questions asked. I didn't bother trying others since the weather was getting worse by the week and I could get the Pats with the bat wing antenna that D* supplied anyway.

Antennas Direct antennas are now sold also by Amazon, so you can check customer comments/ratings there, too.

I wish I still had the antenna ratings/review web site bookmarked but I don't. RS may take their antennas back, too, but I'd ask before buying. That goes for any antenna vendor, really, since each location has its own variables.

Good luck! Let us know how you make out. And safety first if you go up on the roof.

Dana

BTW. I actually saw a Comcast branded panel truck in Brunswick today. Slowly but surely... Also, just looking at D* dishes in the midcoast and in L-A, they all seem to be the new oval shape so the LIL HD spot beam can't be far away.

Well, I finally found the site that I thought was very helpful, informative and objective about TV antennas when I was researching the subject last year. Good info about erecting an antenna with links to lots of other good stuff is here http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ISSUES/erecting_antenna.html The link (from that page) to "Comparing some commercially available antennas" is http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/comparing.html

Hope this helps.

Dana

PS. This monograph is part of "An HDTV Primer" http://www.hdtvprimer.com/

"Please report any suggestions or errors of fact that you find to the author at kq6qv@aol.com. Author: Ken Nist, MSEE (ret), KQ6QV

"This website is unaffiliated and unfunded and accepts no advertising.

"The author has B.S. and M.S degrees in Electrical Engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University.

"This document is Copyright 2002-2006 by Ken Nist. The 'document' includes all web pages at www.hdtvprimer.com. The author places no restrictions on the use of this document. It may be used by anyone in any manner for any purpose."

I have been strictly a cable-tv guy until now, but I just picked up a Tivo Series 3 which also has over-the-air capacity. I would like to (reasonably) maximize my OTA reception, especially to try to get the Patriot's games in HD.

What antennaes do you recommend and where can you buy them? I live in West Falmouth, which is hilly country.

Any info would be appreciated.

Thanks.
Keep in mind WMTW will return to channel 8 , for digital, at 2009 changeover. Choose antenna accordingly.

Keep in mind WMTW will return to channel 8 , for digital, at 2009 changeover. Choose antenna accordingly.

Here's the complete list for Maine. (Sorry about the format.) The last column is the likely digital channel starting in 2009 as Davidinleeds notes.

Dana

Call Sign / Facility ID No. / Community State / Current DTV Channel / Current NTSC Channel / Tentative Channel Designation

WCBB / 39659 / AUGUSTA ME / 17 / 10 / 10
WABI-TV / 17005 / BANGOR ME / 19 / 5 / 19
WLBZ / 39644 / BANGOR ME / 25 / 2 / 2
WVII-TV / 3667 / BANGOR ME / 14 / 7 / 7
WMEA-TV / 39656 / BIDDEFORD ME / 45 / 26 / 45
WMED-TV / 39649 / CALAIS ME / 10 / 13 / 10
WPME / 48408 / LEWISTON ME / 28 / 35 / 35
WMEB-TV / 39648 / ORONO ME / 9 / 12 / 9
WMTW-TV / 73288 / POLAND SPRING ME / 46 / 8 / 8
WCSH / 39664 / PORTLAND ME / 44 / 6 / 44
WGME-TV / 25683 / PORTLAND ME / 38 / 13 / 38
WPXT / 53065 / PORTLAND ME / 43 / 51 / 43
WAGM-TV / 48305 / PRESQUE ISLE ME / 16 / 8 / 8
WMEM-TV / 39662 / PRESQUE ISLE ME / 20 / 10 / 10
WPFO / 84088 / WATERVILLE ME / ~ / 23 / 23

Document "DTV Tentative Channel Designations for the First and Second Rounds"
Link http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DA-06-1082A2.pdf

Any sign of an updated HD DVR at Suscom / Comcast?

I spoke with a CSR at the local office yesterday and she said that there were no plans for a new DVR. In fact they had just place and order for more of the SA DVR's. Take this with a grain of salt though. I had Comcast in Philadelphia and I can tell you that the product, once everything is rolled out, is outstanding but customer service is a comedy show :) Not so much bad CSR's but communication within the company is abysmal. It took me 3 calls to finally get the call center to acknowledge the special offer the local office told me about. Even then it was different then the one they told me about. Sadly this is typical of Comcast, I have had several identical experiences with them over the years. I usually know more about their products from this board then the CSR's themselves do. As more of us switch to Comcast we may want to start a Maine Comcast thread as in Philly that thread was essential. Through word of mouth we were able to figure out what Comcast was actually offering and when it was coming out. For example, a couple of years ago, I was able to get one of the new Moterola DVR's the day they came out, because of the thread, even though the CSR's were denying any knowledge of it and continued to do so weeks after it was available. I hope that they get a new DVR since I am not thrilled with the PQ of the SA. It is much softer than the Dish DVR or the moterola I have had previously.

I spoke with a CSR at the local office yesterday and she said that there were no plans for a new DVR. In fact they had just place and order for more of the SA DVR's. Take this with a grain of salt though. I had Comcast in Philadelphia and I can tell you that the product, once everything is rolled out, is outstanding but customer service is a comedy show :) Not so much bad CSR's but communication within the company is abysmal. It took me 3 calls to finally get the call center to acknowledge the special offer the local office told me about. Even then it was different then the one they told me about. Sadly this is typical of Comcast, I have had several identical experiences with them over the years. I usually know more about their products from this board then the CSR's themselves do. As more of us switch to Comcast we may want to start a Maine Comcast thread as in Philly that thread was essential. Through word of mouth we were able to figure out what Comcast was actually offering and when it was coming out. For example, a couple of years ago, I was able to get one of the new Moterola DVR's the day they came out, because of the thread, even though the CSR's were denying any knowledge of it and continued to do so weeks after it was available. I hope that they get a new DVR since I am not thrilled with the PQ of the SA. It is much softer than the Dish DVR or the moterola I have had previously.

Bobcalkin,

Just about everything you note is confirmed by my browsing around. Apparently (and I saw this written but of course didn't bookmark it) the Comcast business model is different than TWC. Comcast runs its divisions more autonomously. So, one part of the country may have a deal running that another part of the country doesn't.

SusCom Brunswick is apparently a so-called SA system. Here's a clip from another forum that seems knowledgable.

"An SA Area is one of the Comcast systems that use the Scientific Atlanta Hardware for Digital encoding and decoding.
...

"The issue is, those cable boxes use the PowerKey encryption and different authentication. Motorola boxes use the MediaCipher(tm) encryption and its own authentication. Until downloadable conditional access or some kind of overlay software exists, if the Cable headend uses SA, that is an SA exclusive Market. If the headend uses Motorola, its a Motorola exclusive market. There are a few exceptions, Pace Micro makes Motorola and SA Compatible STB's. Sony and Pioneer also make (or made) SA compatible STB's."

So, my take is that it's not likely that SusCom Brunswick will get a new HD DVR unless SA makes it or it is SA compatible. The TiVo software may provide an upgrade. Not coincidentally, that software supposedly is in beta testing in the Philadelphia area (where Comcast has its national HQ). Two large, two medium and two small MSOs all under NDAs.

Glad to have your insight based on experience with Comcast!

Dana

Here's a Q. & A. with Steve Burke, Comcast COO and president on plans for a future HD DVR on Sep. 13, 2006 as reported by TV Predictions http://www.tvpredictions.com/nextburke091306.htm

"TVP: Your DVR has had a very successful rollout. Are there any plans to offer a DVR with a larger hard drive of between 160 gig and 320 gig vs the 120 gig drive available today? If so, when can we expect to see them rolled out? Also, when will the TIVO option be available for your DVR?

"SB: We have an agreement with Panasonic to produce HD DVRs that will essentially double the amount of current DVR storage space. Those boxes should begin to rollout sometime in 2007. We’re also on track to begin making our co-branded TiVo service available later this year. "

Are we getting too "Comcastic" on this thread? Should we create a new Comcast Maine thread as Bobcalkin suggests?

Dana

I would suggest that if you have solid information about comcast you post it here. Otherwise, you can start a comcast thread or not. How many people here are on Comcast? Two or three? Or a lot more?

I'd suggest the same thing about antennas. There are forums where discussing the installation of antenna, and how to chose them. This thread is more appropriate for questions like "what do you use?" and "how well does it work here?". Earlier in this thread, in several places, I posted information on the power each broadcaster is at, the email address of thestation member, and what channel they would be broadcasting at when (if ever) the analog broadcast switch is turned off.

We are getting near to the place where we should close down this thread, and start a new one with a summary of Maine broadcast and cable DTV offerings. It's getting quite long.

Joe

DrJoe; I agree but mostly disagree. The Thread is Local HDTV Info and Reception > Portland, Me (I would add/ LA) and this comprises almost anything related to HD. Maybe it's too vague but I would rather see a central discussion about "our area" than seeking out a separate thread for every topic. We can direct discussion to appropriate threads when needed, as like antenna selection, but what better advice as to antenna selection than those who live in the surrounding area. I would rather see active dialog than "read previous posts" But maybe we need a moderator. My opinion.

From what I've read (both in this thread and elsewhere across the web) it is very difficult to be in the position I am and attempt to receive OTA locals from Portland and Bangor. I'm nearly 40 miles from Bangor, but I've always watched Portland local stations (some 80 miles away).

I hope I am not running afoul of DrJoe's statement above, but I just received my D* HR20 and with the promise of OTA HD in the near future I am beginning to look at the whos, whats , wheres and whens of OTA reception in Midcoast Maine. Most of you guys seem to be in S. Maine, but those of us in the "No Man's Land" that is the gulf between Bangor and Portland would love to play in HD as well.

You're invited, we are where we are and I'd welcome your personnal trials and tribulations on attempts at digital reception because it may help someone tune theirs. I'm closer to portland and receive bangor(ABI&CW/PBS) with a stronger signal-except WCBB which I can see its aviation beacon. With digital-OTA-it's alot to do with topography. See, 80 miles is good. Must be the water. I think the FCC site has some applications for DTV in you area.

From what I've read (both in this thread and elsewhere across the web) it is very difficult to be in the position I am and attempt to receive OTA locals from Portland and Bangor. I'm nearly 40 miles from Bangor, but I've always watched Portland local stations (some 80 miles away).

I hope I am not running afoul of DrJoe's statement above, but I just received my D* HR20 and with the promise of OTA HD in the near future I am beginning to look at the whos, whats , wheres and whens of OTA reception in Midcoast Maine. Most of you guys seem to be in S. Maine, but those of us in the "No Man's Land" that is the gulf between Bangor and Portland would love to play in HD as well.

BlueDevil,

A warm welcome! Just a heads up. A review on CNET here http://reviews.cnet.com/DirecTV_HR20_HD_DVR/4505-6474_7-32065196.html says:

"Downside: Although we haven't been able to test drive the HR20 yet, we're guessing the biggest downside will be the lack of TiVo's best-in-class interface. Also, the over-the-air ATSC tuner is currently disabled--that's not such a big deal if all of your HD locals are available on DirecTV's satellite feed, but it could be a big factor if you live outside one of the select areas on DirecTV's ever-growing local roster. DirecTV has said the antenna input will be activated before the end of 2006, but there's no guarantee if and when that will actually happen..."

Now of course the Portland-Auburn local HD stations are due to become available via local into local spot beam soon, likely in October. Does D* consider you in the Portland-Auburn DMA? If so, you won't need the OTA antenna to get HD locals.

Do you know that the OTA antenna input is active on your HR20?

Dana

PS. According to the D* web site "Yes! Local channels are available in Portland-Auburn ME 04856." :)

Most of you guys seem to be in S. Maine, but those of us in the "No Man's Land" that is the gulf between Bangor and Portland would love to play in HD as well.

When it's time, just start a thread for your particular area. I'll read it-and post(oh no!)

Thank you for the welcome guys.

From most of what I've read the HD content D* will beam down to me via MPEG4 will not hold a candle to what a OTA signal can pull in, and with the HR20 eventually having OTA capabilities , this is something I'm looking at. As you noted, Rockport is considered to be in the Portland DMA, but being some 80 miles away I'm guessing picking up either Portland (due to distance) or Bangor (due to hilly terrain) will be a challenge. Basically, I am trying to plan ahead while the weather is still nice, rather than trying to stand on an icy roof in January. :)

BlueDevil,

While I think planning and research are great - and congratulations, incidentally, on actually getting an HR20 as it appears that they are in short supply - if D* doesn't activate the OTA ATSC tuner on that box until late 2006 (which I have now read in the fine print on D*s own HR20 spec sheet) you won't get a chance to try out any OTA antennas until bad weather likely is here. The LIL MPEG4 spot beam hopefully will have been activated before then, so you'll get a chance to evaluate the quality for yourself - and we hope share your comments here - before you can hook up an OTA antenna.

I'm not trying to rain on your parade. But timing is everything especially when weather is involved. If you do erect an antenna, it will require its own RG-6 cable from the antenna to the HR20. No diplexers can be used, as you probably already know.

Dana

drbonbi, try Zap2it, you can customize it and has all the new channels added within the last week.

http://tvlistings5.zap2it.com/tvlistings/GridAction.do?zipcode=04011

...
edoug,

I finally got around to trying it (again) and except for continuing to call our cable co. "Susquehanna Cable" it's accurate without customizing! Thanks. :)

Dana

edoug,

I finally got around to trying it (again) and except for continuing to call our cable co. "Susquehanna Cable" it's accurate without customizing! Thanks. :)

Dana
Unfortunately I was wrong. Instead of our local PBS HD station they show WPBN, from Traverse City, Michigan.

http://www.mpbn.net/television/schedule.html
Even though MPBN HD has been off air (for us anyway) more than it has been on, it is nice to know what it's showing.
My apologies I don't know why I didn't notice it.

Unfortunately I was wrong. Instead of our local PBS HD station they show WPBN, from Traverse City, Michigan.

http://www.mpbn.net/television/schedule.html
Even though MPBN HD has been off air (for us anyway) more than it has been on, it is nice to know what it's showing.
My apologies I don't know why I didn't notice it.
I'm no better. I did notice the NBC peacock on cable channel 503 the last time I looked a couple of weeks ago, but then missed it last night. And I certainly didn't figure out why. :o (They also make the same mistake with cable channel 173, now that I look more closely.)

Oh well, back to http://ww2.titantv.com/TTV/Grid/Grid.aspx

Dana
PS. I did file a bug report with them.

Here's an update on the program guide data on DirecTV Tivo receivers. WPXT CW Portland now has program guide data. I expect WPME My Portland to be up shortly if it isn't already. It's only taken a couple of months. :D


Chet Cook
Engineer
WPXT-TV/WPME-TV

Chet, is it my imagination or is there a reason why WPME and WPXT analog would look stronger and brighter on Time Warner Augusta in the last few days? It probably is my imagination because I am always looking for your stations to appear on the TWC Augusta digital (HD) dial.

By the way, have you heard when TWC will begin carrying your digital signals? Rumors? Rumors of rumors?

Chet, is it my imagination or is there a reason why WPME and WPXT analog would look stronger and brighter on Time Warner Augusta in the last few days? It probably is my imagination because I am always looking for your stations to appear on the TWC Augusta digital (HD) dial.

By the way, have you heard when TWC will begin carrying your digital signals? Rumors? Rumors of rumors?

I'm not sure why we'd look any different in Augusta. We aren't doing anything different.

As far as Time Warner and the digitals, we are still in retrans negotiations, although it is just for WPXT CW Portland. WPME My Portland is not of interest (at the moment) to them. We are at a stall due to the individual at Time Warner handeling the negotiations is on maternity leave.

Chet Cook
Engineer
WPXT-TV/WPME-TV

I'm not sure why we'd look any different in Augusta. We aren't doing anything different.

As far as Time Warner and the digitals, we are still in retrans negotiations, although it is just for WPXT CW Portland. WPME My Portland is not of interest (at the moment) to them. We are at a stall due to the individual at Time Warner handeling the negotiations is on maternity leave.

Chet Cook
Engineer
WPXT-TV/WPME-TV

Thanks, Chet. This kind of info makes it a little easier to wait things out. Please, let us be the first to know as something happens.

"is on maternity leave"


Women.....she probably spoke to all our wives and planned the pregnancy to make sure we couldn't get CBS HD for football season.