Hey folks has anyone checked whether it is a 1080i versus a 720p issue? I know CBS broacast HD 1080i

It really has nothing to do with HDTV.. Standard TV during the day also shows no picture so they must be doing something that is corrupting the signal for select tuners.. (not on purpose).

27 and 4 are also 1080i and they come in fine.

Fresh from my email:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 18, 2007


Cox adds high definition channels to Southern Arizona digital lineup


TUCSON, Ariz. – Responding to customer demand, Cox Communications is happy to announce the addition of two new high definition channels to its Tucson, Green Valley and Benson digital television lineups. Check your channel guides for the following updates which take effect April 25:
· KMSB-Fox HD launches on channel 711
· National Geographic HD launches on channel ***722

"Cox customers want more high definition television and we want to provide them with the highest quality in HD programming. Additions to the high definition service, such as National Geographic HD truly showcase the finest in high definition television," says Anne Doris, vice president, Southern Arizona.

It's being over a year since Rory started looking for answers from Anne Doris. Looks like we finally got what we wanted. Welcome to the 21st century fellow Tucson Cox customers :)

Recording OTA through DirecTV/Tivo for well over a year thanks to Cox. Shame on them for taking so long to get the Big 4 up. Congrats to those of you who had absolutely no choice.

KOLD is such a joke. No HD for the New Orleans golf tournament yesterday, or today....UNTIL the very last putt on the very last hole! What kind of small-time operation are they running down there. I called Comcast and they comiserated, but said it was a KOLD problem.

I would think Cox and Comcast could put some pressure on them to get their act together sooner than later, but I think CBS has been available on cable for quite awhile now so even that doesn't seem to make a difference. I'd like to find someone at CBS who could put some pressure on them since CBS is broadcasting this stuff in HD, but we aren't getting it, and I'm not watching it either because it's not in HD so they are losing viewership because of it. I would think as an affiliate they would be required to broadcast what CBS is providing and if they don't get replaced as an affiliate or fined or something.

I'm calling KOLD tomorrow because I left a message over the weekend asking for a return call explaining what happened with the HD this weekend for the PGA golf, and their voice mail says they will get back to you the next day but no calls. One person I did talk to over the weekend said they are doing an equipment upgrade this year at some point so hopefully the constant outages when it rains and non-HD and problems with their signal so different tuners can't tune in the channel will be a thing of the past, nobody hold their breath though.

Unbelievable, as if the weekend problems weren't enough, now the bastards have the same problem they had a couple of weeks ago, video without sound I can get on one tuner, and nothing on the rest, DAMN YOU KOLD AND ANYONE THERE ASSOCIATED WITH THE DTV BROADCAST, YOU SHOULD ALL BE FIRED!!!!!

It's being over a year since Rory started looking for answers from Anne Doris. Looks like we finally got what we wanted. Welcome to the 21st century fellow Tucson Cox customers :)

You remembered me! If I wasn't a straight male, I think that I would be in love. ;)

I'd like to think I had something to do with it, but the only channel that really did something directly based on my actions was the WB/CW.

Hopefully, though what we all started here kick started things and the wave just kept building and more and more people who are buying HD started calling and complaining as well.

Hard to believe as of the 25th, we'll have all the locals. What a long, strange journey it has been.

Stick to your guns, though. Keep up the pressure to get what you want. For example, I will only watch KVOA news now. I want them to know that they will get my support for stepping up with their news. If the other channels want me to tune and the rest of us to tune in, they'd better stop screwing up (KOLD) and whining (all of them). And I still don't like Anne Doris. I think this has a lot to do with them making promises to keep their Tucson contract and not having it stripped from them because of our complaints to the city.

Unbelievable, as if the weekend problems weren't enough, now the bastards have the same problem they had a couple of weeks ago, video without sound I can get on one tuner, and nothing on the rest, DAMN YOU KOLD AND ANYONE THERE ASSOCIATED WITH THE DTV BROADCAST, YOU SHOULD ALL BE FIRED!!!!!


Since they aren't cooperating I believe we could atleast log a complaint with the FCC. They had to get a "DTV Broadcast License" in order to air HDTV OTA and one of those requirements has to be that they don't have a *2 week* continuous outage.

Does anyone know where to begin with an FCC complaint?

I received a response to my messages from their assistant Chief Engineer. They are now looking into our problem. I'll let you know if I find something out.

Does anyone know where to begin with an FCC complaint?

Google works:

http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/complaints.html

Fox HD and National Geographic HD showed up on Cox this morning. Whee!

Thought some of you would like to know... I was helping my brother get OTA set up on his new plasma and noticed his TV tuner didn't have any problems with channel 13. Went home and tried it on MCE and it's coming in just fine. Wish I knew what the problem was and whether they're doing anything to prevent it from happening again!

Just scanned on my Voom box and it is now working. Looks like we should all be back up. Please post if your problem is resolved.

Thanks.

Confirming that 1131 KOLD OTA works from my Vista Media Center and Vbox USB Tuner. I was able to record a full 30 minute show and watch it without issues.

From the Assistant Chief Engineer at KOLD:

Thanks for the update. I'm glad you are able to receive our DTV signal again in all your receivers.

We did a lot trouble shooting and had to rebuild most of the PSIP tables.

Question in regards to Cox's 8240 HD DVR. My internal clock is about 45 seconds ahead of the running time of many shows. When I record programs to watch back at a later time I mis the last 45 seconds of these programs. If I set the timer to record the following program the recorder records these lost 45 seconds.

I have been into settings but I do not see where I can change the internal clock. Anybody have any ideas as to how I can combat this problem?

I have noticed the same problem. My guess that Cox needs to fix their master clock. I have not called the Cox technical support line but maybe we should call.
Has anyone called Cox to asked why this is occurring?

I have noticed the same problem. My guess that Cox needs to fix their master clock. I have not called the Cox technical support line but maybe we should call.
Has anyone called Cox to asked why this is occurring?


Just got off the phone with Cox. The tech had mentioned that an email had circulated within Cox of this known problem. The tech mention he could send out a tech to my home, but I refused as this will not help. Their master clock is off and nothing to do with the receiver. The tech did mention that when someone enters the guide, then click on the record button from the remote that the recording time can be adjusted for each recorded program. This is a little bit of a hassle but if it’s a program that being recorded daily then the adjustment to the time only needs to be done one time per each recorded program.

My TiVo Series 3 is also receiving CBS HD OTA again. Thanks for pestering them!

Is anyone else having trouble with the guide listings for 6.1 KUAT-DT on MCE? I've updated the latest mutliple times, but all I see is "Information Unavailable" or something similar. The weird thing is the guide listings are there for 6.2, 6.3 and 6.4. Not sure what else I can do. The shows come in fine, but nothing records because MCE doesn't know what's showing... very frustrating.

KOLD wasn't in HD again last night, I called the newsdesk and they confirmed they were having problems and it wouldn't be in HD. Just wondering if it's also not in HD on COX/Comcast when it's not in HD OTA, and if we all called COX/Comcast whenever it isn't in HD to pester them maybe they would put a call into KOLD management and get some action there at the station.

It sounds like they have been working on it to get the settings back so everyone can receive it properly, but they should know enough about how it should be working to know there was a problem in the first place, and it shouldn't have taken a couple of weeks or more to fix it either. It's almost Noon so we'll see if they have it fixed for today for the PGA or not.

They had the other issues I was having fixed by Tue morning last week after it was out on Monday, so I stopped pestering them at that point. At least the assistant engineer seems to be interested in trying to get things fixed and communicating with us, the chief engineer I guess is just waiting for retirement and not talking with the public anymore, he must think he's above the rest of us, but he sure is at the bottom of the rest of the stations engineers, since KOLD works worse than any other DTV station. If it's truly an old hardware and systems situation, they could still put more effor into monitoring and fixing it more quickly when there are problems, but hopefully if an upgrade is coming it will be taken care of once and for all.

Hey guys. I just signed on here to ask a question in another topic when I saw that we now have Fox in HD over Cox. AWESOME!

Congrats to everyone for finally having the big 4!

Now I can watch 24 in HD without having to worry about someone walking in front of the antenna.

Any word on KWBA getting HD DBacks this year? KTVK had the Giants/DBacks in HD this weekend.

In case anyone hasn't seen this, AVSer andy.s.lee combined a bunch of broadcast data into a file that you can use with Google Earth to provide coverage maps for TV stations. Tucson was added a few days ago.
Discussion thread here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=821480) and a direct link to the torrent for the Tucson file here (http://home.comcast.net/~andy.s.lee/public/Tucson_AZ.kmz.torrent).

Has anyone figured out our local ch 64 for NBC? It seems to be a play toy for learning TV
practiioners. You never know what kind of new interference scheme they will dream up.

I see that this station CANNOT show a HD sporting event without having a SD segment or two... they did it again for the MLB game and I expect that they'll do it again for the NASCAR event today.

The engineering staff is still in Phx, right?

Tony

I see that this station CANNOT show a HD sporting event without having a SD segment or two... they did it again for the MLB game and I expect that they'll do it again for the NASCAR event today.

The engineering staff is still in Phx, right?

Tony

Oh it's not limited to sports. It's not out of the ordinary for a segment of 24 to be in SD.

Has anyone figured out our local ch 64 for NBC? It seems to be a play toy for learning TV
practiioners. You never know what kind of new interference scheme they will dream up.
NBC is channel 4 or digital 23. What are you asking?

Ch 64 is for those of us who live west of the Bigelow coverage. Ch 64 is a Ch 4 transponder broadcasting (sort of) from Tumamoc hill, just west of A Mountain.

What's this new Cox Generation that Cox is promoting? When is it to begin?

They've just jumped onto the "future is coming" advertising bandwagon. DirecTV started this a couple of years back with their HD promise (almost here, but we're still waiting). I heard their ad a few days ago. Can't remember all of their promises, but it did sound interesting.

Now that they've added all the local HDs, this place has sure gotten quiet.

They've just jumped onto the "future is coming" advertising bandwagon. DirecTV started this a couple of years back with their HD promise (almost here, but we're still waiting). I heard their ad a few days ago. Can't remember all of their promises, but it did sound interesting.

Now that they've added all the local HDs, this place has sure gotten quiet.


Yea but I am waiting for the other 100 HD channels, Gworkman let's start complaining.

I have been reading the posts here, but to be honest, after I jumped ship over to Dish, I don't really care what Cox does. Sorry guys.

I have been reading the posts here, but to be honest, after I jumped ship over to Dish, I don't really care what Cox does. Sorry guys.

I would have jump ship as well, but Dish or Direct TV just can't deliver everything I need, cable, phone, internet, HD all at a reasonable cost. With monson weather just around the corner I also do not want to deal with outages due to rain. I'am happy now that the locals are on Cox although I have them with OTA as well. Just gives me another feed when the DVR is recording two channels at the same time.

I have been reading the posts here, but to be honest, after I jumped ship over to Dish, I don't really care what Cox does. Sorry guys.

Same here...almost. Went with Direct in Jan 06. HD Tivo is still running strong. Just did "Price for Life" with Quest in Nov 06. As long as I live in Tucson, Cox will not have a connection to this house.

Yea but I am waiting for the other 100 HD channels, Gworkman let's start complaining.

I think the complaints will fall on deaf ears. Here's hoping they don't have some "anomoly" that prevents them from getting the new sat in space. I do believe the future for DirecTV subs is bright.

I just downloaded the latest CE for the HR20. The box has been rather stable for me and the latest software update via CE seems rock solid.

I just downloaded the latest CE for the HR20. The box has been rather stable for me and the latest software update via CE seems rock solid.
Are you getting the HD locals with that box, yet? Speaking of the HR20, I love this box, in fact, I like it better than the HR10......I never thought I'd say that.

I get them OTA, but Tucson is not yet available on DirecTV. My HR20 is in my bedroom while Tivo still remains in the living room. I'm just about ready to move them around. Have you set up your remote for RF instead of IR?

I'm being spoiled by Comcast's Motorola DCT 3416 while spending my summer in Michigan. Far superior interface vs. my Cox SA8300 in Green Valley.

Is there any hope of Cox improving their interface in the NEAR future? Not having the ability to remove the unwatched channels from scrolling thru the guide is a crime, not to mention the other clunkiness of the interface.

I get them OTA, but Tucson is not yet available on DirecTV. My HR20 is in my bedroom while Tivo still remains in the living room. I'm just about ready to move them around. Have you set up your remote for RF instead of IR?
You mean some parts of Tucson, I get them, as you probably recall. Yes, I have one HR20 using RF, and it works great, am able to change channels from our bedroom, and the box is located in the family room.

I'm being spoiled by Comcast's Motorola DCT 3416 while spending my summer in Michigan. Far superior interface vs. my Cox SA8300 in Green Valley.

Is there any hope of Cox improving their interface in the NEAR future? Not having the ability to remove the unwatched channels from scrolling thru the guide is a crime, not to mention the other clunkiness of the interface.

Well the TiVo option is still pending. Last I heard it was for the Moto boxes only and I don't see much chance of Cox in our area eating the loss on the SA 8300's

Comcast and Cox have struck deals to offer TiVo software as a premium upgrade on their DVRs. Comcast is testing the software, but, "we don't have a date yet" for a rollout, Rogers says. "We hope it will be relatively near term."

Well the TiVo option is still pending. Last I heard it was for the Moto boxes only and I don't see much chance of Cox in our area eating the loss on the SA 8300's

Comcast and Cox have struck deals to offer TiVo software as a premium upgrade on their DVRs. Comcast is testing the software, but, "we don't have a date yet" for a rollout, Rogers says. "We hope it will be relatively near term."

Is Comcast prevented from serving the north part of Green Valley?

OTA 9.1 is severely pixelating and showing "signal not found" in the last two days (maybe longer?).

Anyone else seeing this?

Just checked. Looks OK to me.

Thanks for checking. I'm still having a problem with 9.1, but not with any of the others (4.1, 11.1, 13.1) up on the mountain with it. Guess I need to fiddle with the roof antenna.

I had intermittent problems yesterday. Having no problem right now. Guess they saw we were bored here.

Folks
9.1 was having transmitter problems, they had to temporarily reduce power.

On 5/31/2007 all my TVGOS data went away (it happened over the previous 8 days) and since then there has been no download.

Does anyone know if Comcast in Tucson is using channel 6 or channel 9 for the Gemstar data. I wonder if their new IPG data is somehow preventing us from receiving the old TVGOS data?

I bought my Panasonic DMR-EH75V in February and it has worked with the TVGOS data flawlesly since then.......until 5/31. :(

Any help would be appreciated. I have done a reboot, tried to force channel 06 for the VBI data and reset my zipcode to an adjacent one with no success.



Thanks,
Mick

I would have jump ship as well, but Dish or Direct TV just can't deliver everything I need, cable, phone, internet, HD all at a reasonable cost. With monson weather just around the corner I also do not want to deal with outages due to rain. I'am happy now that the locals are on Cox although I have them with OTA as well. Just gives me another feed when the DVR is recording two channels at the same time.


My second biggest complaint with Cox was that their DVR would not record OTA signals. I am very happy with the Dish DVR I have, I can record 2 sat channels and 1 OTA.

With all the special offers I got from them when I signed up, I have 10 months where I am saving about $40 over what I was paying Cox.

I just opened a trouble ticket with Mardia on the customer service line at Comcast Tucson.
She promised she would turn this over to their "head end" folks in the morning. I also plan on calling Gemstar's customer service first thing tomorrow morning to see if they have had any complaints.


Mick

OTA 9.1 is severely pixelating and showing "signal not found" in the last two days (maybe longer?).

Anyone else seeing this?Still having problems with the big-block pixelating here at my location near Sabino Canyon. Unfortunately there is a hill between me and the antenna so a reflected signal may be part of the problem, although not all as the past two years it has usually been just fine.

Just I'll drop KGUN an email, and watch 4.1 NBC in the meantime.

On 5/31/2007 all my TVGOS data went away (it happened over the previous 8 days) and since then there has been no download.

Does anyone know if Comcast in Tucson is using channel 6 or channel 9 for the Gemstar data. I wonder if their new IPG data is somehow preventing us from receiving the old TVGOS data?

I bought my Panasonic DMR-EH75V in February and it has worked with the TVGOS data flawlesly since then.......until 5/31. :(

Any help would be appreciated. I have done a reboot, tried to force channel 06 for the VBI data and reset my zipcode to an adjacent one with no success.



Thanks,
Mick

Did you get it working?

Maybe it is a PBS issue...
Here is someone else having the same issue on Cox...
http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,18484747

Did you get it working?

Maybe it is a PBS issue...
Here is someone else having the same issue on Cox...
http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,18484747

Thanks,
It WAS a TVGOS problem and their Broadcast Operations folks fixed it
by working with Comcast's Head-End folks here in Tucson.

Mick

Any word on KWBA getting HD DBacks this year? KTVK had the Giants/DBacks in HD this weekend.

I'd like to know the answer to this as well; I check periodically and it's always in SD

I'd like to know the answer to this as well; I check periodically and it's always in SD

from their April 12, 2006 press release:

Fans in Southern Arizona will also be able to experience D-Backs games in high definition through the team's Tucson affiliate, KWBA, who will also broadcast all remaining over-the-air home games. In addition, FSN Arizona, the team's cable rightsholder, will air their 16 Friday night telecasts in HDTV.

The D-Backs are moving to KTTU next year. KWBA must have decided not to spend the extra money on HD this year as this is their "lame duck" year. KWBA was pushing HD strongly last year. That push landed their digital feed onto Cox when most of the other channels were still haggling over contracts. I think they used the D-Backs HD as the big reason to get added to the Cox lineup.

Game 3 Spurs-Cavs:

No 9-1 signal..have to watch in SD for now...arghhh...what's the deal?

Today's Michigan race looks horrible on TNTHD on Cox. The races last year on TNTHD looked very good. I guess Cox has changed their compression settings since then.

Anyone else have a bad picture on NASCAR today?

Edit: I checked on the HDTV programming forum and it appears to be bad for everyone and not a local feed issue.

Does ANYONE know if Cox has plans on expanding their HD lineup? It's absolutely pitiful - and I will be going with E* (likely) because the HD cable offering in Tucson is positively pitiful. I'd love to give Cox my business, as HD cable usually looks better than satellite, but so far... nothin' doin'.

I was with two true "A list" Cox technicians (not the usual contractor guys) this week who told me it is soon to expand extensively. He said they plan to have 50 HD channels by year's end...and they are working on 100 plus. Sounds promising (finally).

Hmmm... Well now I'm stuck! I'd go with Cox HD, but as of now, their lineup stinks (and was thinking of going with E*). Cox doesn't even have national cable HD channels like FoodNetwork HD!

I would be hesitant to switch to Dish right now. DirecTV is also deploying a satellite very soon that should add over 50 HD channels in September. There really aren't many national HD channels available. I know Dish has the Voom channels and a few more nationals right now, but the landscape will change quickly and it would be best not to be tied into a lengthy contract until the dust settles. You've waited this long, what's a few more months?

The thing is - Come August 1, I will be moving into my new house (along with two other buddies - just north of UMC, we're UA students). We are working with a friend's mother, the purchaser of the house, who will be paying utilities (all the way in Boston, MA). We don't have the luxury of being able to switch providers after we pick one (she's a very - stubborn - woman), and I want to be sure to get the best HD I can get. I understand D* is launching a new satellite, but there's no telling what HD we will actually get, and what quality it will be. Some even say it is simply the 4 locals in 25 markets! I would ideally get Cox, as they will be my internet provider, and usually cable HD service looks great (does it?) via cablecard, however Cox's lineup SUCKS. I really have no way of knowing if they will expand their lineup to match what E* currently has (or what D* might have in the future). I feel like I'm stuck picking between two sub-par options. I could go with cable, and just hope the lineup expands down the road, but that's a very risky and uncomforting path to travel down.

OK, I see National Geographic HD was added (was that there before?), which is great. Still no A&E HD, Food HD, HGTV HD, etc... HDNET also still MIA...

NGHD has been there for a month or two I believe.

I feel that Cox's HD lineup is now competitive and I don't believe they modify the signals any from what they are fed, though don't take my word on it.

Cox does have all the HD locals as well which you won't get from Dish or Direct without another antenna to pick up OTA. That may work well for you where you live though.

What do you plan to watch in HD mostly? Personally I watch the prime time network shows for the majority of my HD viewing, and some sports, so Cox works well. But if you're looking for the shows on A&E, HGTV, and Food, then Cox isn't the right choice. But for a house of guys, are those channels really going to be the most watched channels?

Oh, I did notice that Cox has been listing the UFC HD PPV for a bit if you're into that stuff. And last year, they did have NFL HD during the football season. Not sure if that will happen again though.

Cox does have all the HD locals as well which you won't get from Dish or Direct
I receive all the locals in HD from DTV, albeit, from Phoenix, however, I live in Pinal County.

E* is also launching new sats this year. The last email I got from them said that that there were going to be 2 new ones. They are also converting everything over to MPEG4 which will give them a lot more bandwidth.

Unlike D*, they have been very quiet about it, but I honestly can't see either D* or E* letting the other get that far ahead of the other. There are too many dollars from subscribers at stake.

We switched over to E* is September and I couldn't be happier. My picture quality is better than what I was getting from Cox, and I have 30+ HD channels to pick from.

I receive all the locals in HD from DTV, albeit, from Phoenix, however, I live in Pinal County.

That is true, but with the VIP622 DVR that I got from Dish, it works perfectly with the OTA. My biggest complaint about Cox was that their DVR would not. I get all of the EPG info and can record 2 sat channels and 1 OTA at the same time. Basically I have a 3 tuner DVR.

I am not trying to sell this stuff, but we couldn't be happier, not to mention we are spending about $20 less than we were with Cox and getting A LOT more channels in both SD and HD.

That is true, but with the VIP622 DVR that I got from Dish, it works perfectly with the OTA. My biggest complaint about Cox was that their DVR would not. I get all of the EPG info and can record 2 sat channels and 1 OTA at the same time. Basically I have a 3 tuner DVR.

You can do the same thing with DTV's HR20-700 STB.

You can do the same thing with DTV's HR20-700 STB.
Actually, until E* has HD Locals, the D* box is superior. It can record two OTA channels at the same time.

Back to the original poster....glad we could all help :) There will always be three different opinions when you ask which is the best provider.

Cable - Simple setup, no contract, all locals HD, highest price
Dish Network - More HD right now
DirecTV - May have the most HD in about 2 months. Can't be beat when it comes to sports.

It is ridiculous that DirecTV does not have the HD locals from Tucson yet...

A&E and Food are big favorites by me, I am quite disappointed Cox doesn't offer them. I'm still caught up in what to get, E*, D* or Cox. Cox would be simpler (with internet coming from Cox), and I've heard that cable HD (cablecard/box) is a cleaner signal than DBS. I want the most content I can get *without sacraficing quality*, which is what has me holding back from DBS (HD-lite).

I'm wondering why on earth Cox hasn't stepped it up...? Shouldn't they be expanding their HD lineup to compete with DBS?!

and I've heard that cable HD (cablecard/box) is a cleaner signal than DBS.
Can't speak for E*, but D* has an excellent PQ on all channels, however, since some of it's HD content is in MPEG4, Cox will have a better HD picture.

It is ridiculous that DirecTV does not have the HD locals from Tucson yet...

I doubt we will get them this year.. Word is that after the initial roll outs they are not necessarly going in DMA order, but also looking at how many HD subscribers there are in each DMA.. There are already smaller DMA's then Tucson with HD locals.. I get the HD locals via Comast, but would prefer to have them via D* so I don't have to keep switching inputs, and if qwest would ever get DSL available where I am, Comcast might be gone anyway..

By threatening to cancel every six months, I get a decent price for cable modem without cable TV...

I just can't believe that Green Bay, WI is a higher ranked DMA than Tucson. Tucson is DEFINITELY a bigger community than Green Bay. How exactly do they come up with those numbers?

By threatening to cancel every six months, I get a decent price for cable modem without cable TV...

I just can't believe that Green Bay, WI is a higher ranked DMA than Tucson. Tucson is DEFINITELY a bigger community than Green Bay. How exactly do they come up with those numbers?

dma rankings are done by the ac neilsen company.. same ones who do the tv show ratings..

New channels! Lineup changes! Etc.! This is as of July 11!

KYYU My Network HD on channel 702

· A&E HD on channel 740

· Cinemax HD on channel 781

Channel Moves:

· TNT HD from channel 725 to channel 726

· MHD from channel 726 to channel 729

· HBO HD from channel 730 to channel 780

· SHO HD from channel 740 to channel 782

· STARZ HD from channel 750 to channel 783

New channels! Lineup changes! Etc.! This is as of July 11!


Provider? KYYU? Did you mean KTTU?

Those are Cox channel numbers and KTTU is 2, so KTTU makes sense for 702.

Those are Cox channel numbers and KTTU is 2, so KTTU makes sense for 702.

Yeah, sorry for not specifying, and KTTU/KYYU is Cox's error, not mine...I just copy/pasted from my email.

Does anyone know if there is a free preview of Starz HD on comcast right now.

It's weird because for about the last week I've been able to get Starz HD, but none of the regular Starz channels. Just wondering if there is a free preview, or if someone at comcast accidently flipped the switch, not complaining of course, just curious.

Now that I think about it, this happened when they had that fiber optic line cut last week, perhaps the repair did something.

I'm actually doing some research for a friend. He's interested in a Magnavox 1080p LCD tv, and it has a QAM tuner, but no CableCARD slot. Not owning an HDTV myself (but enjoy learning/research)... I'm wondering what good a QAM tuner is for? Where would one pick up an unencrypted QAM signal that does not require a set-top box and CableCARD?

At first I thought Cox here in Tucson sent the local HD channels over basic cable (analog), but now I'm wondering if he would need to upgrade to digital cable. If he's doing that, then he needs a set top box for the CableCARD, right?

I guess I'm unsure if Cox even sends local HD through the analog signal... if anyone has any experience, please let me know!

Thanks!

Where would one pick up an unencrypted QAM signal that does not require a set-top box and CableCARD?
I cannot speak for Cox here, since I don't have Cox, but I pick up all the unencrypted HD channels in Surprise via QAM from Cox with just expanded basic, no STB or cable card.

I cannot speak for Cox here, since I don't have Cox, but I pick up all the unencrypted HD channels in Surprise via QAM from Cox with just expanded basic, no STB or cable card.

OK, that's good to hear. In your area, does that include anything besides the big networks?

Actually one only needs basic subsription, and here's the list that we receive via QAM,

Fox 10
CW 61
PBS HD
NBC 12
PBS 8
NBC 12 W+
ABC 15
CBS 5
IND 3

I'm new to the Tucson area(Marana) I have COMCAST the HD DVR setup. I would like to try and use the HDMI cable from the box to the Sharp 52" LCD.The firmware is 16.20 v. on the box.I would like to get at least the 16.35 v. upgrade.BUT when I ask the people on Cortaro Rd. I get a blank stare or the famous "I'll have a tech call you".Is there anyone in that office
who would know? Thanx

OK, that's good to hear. In your area, does that include anything besides the big networks?


TNTHD, ESPNDH, etc are encrypted. You can basically get the same channels you could get with an antenna, plus home shopping networks & cspan (but those are on analog too.)

here are the notes I took last time I mapped them on my mythtv. This is cox Tucson. They've added KTTUHD since I last did this so I'm not sure where that is.

Edit: 7/24/07
I verified this list for Tucson Cox QAM this weekend. The locals on the 110 subchannels are the SD versions.

81.1 KTTUDT

82.4 13-2
82.5 13-3

104.1 KVOADT
104.2 KGUN DT
104.14 KUAT3

105.4 WGN
105.5 CSPAN
105.6 CSPAN2
105.7 HSN
105.8 QVC

106.1 KWBADT
106.2 KOLDDT
106.15 Create KUAT4

110.1 KTTU
110.2 KVOA
110.3 Univision
110.4 KUAT
110.5 COX7
110.6 KWBA
110.7 KGUN
110.8 Telemundo
110.9 KMSB
110.10 KOLD

111.1 KUAS-DT HD
111.2 KMSB DT
111.13 KUAT2

Sunday, July 8, 2007, 11:02 AM
HDTV Doesn't Help Tucson TV News
The NBC affiliate in Tucson loses news viewers after switching to high-def.
By Phillip Swann

Washington, D.C. (July 8, 2007) -- KVOA-TV's news programs took a ratings dip in May despite a heavily publicized switch to High-Definition.

KVOA-TV is the NBC affiliate in Tucson, Arizona.

The station's 10 p.m. news program plunged from a 8.7 Nielsen rating in February of this year to a 6.3 in May, according to the Arizona Daily Star. The 5 p.m. newscast fell from 7.4 to 5.1 and the 6 p.m. program declined from 6.8 to 5.1.

KVOA became the first Tucson station to broadcast the news in high-def on April 22 of this year, shortly before the May ratings period.

"I think all of us over the years have found ratings books where we've wondered what happened, and this is certainly one of them," Gary Nielsen, president and general manager of KVOA, told the Daily Star. "I find it hard to believe that our newscasts went down."

Well, it'd be interesting to know what the general summer trend for news ratings are.

It also be interesting to see how well the HD buyer demographics match up with news audience demographics.

That is so bizzare... I have ONLY watched KVOA since they moved to HD, their newscast looks fantastic - much better than KGUN and KOLD (with an HDTV).

Yes I also have embraced the HD Local news on KVOA. It seems odd they could be seeing a ratings drop based on the promotion of the move to HD. Interesting they are adding a 4pm broadcast:
from AZ Daily star:
"Local NBC affiliate KVOA, Channel 4, may have seen its Nielsen ratings dip this May, but it's actually expanding its on-air product — by adding a 4 p.m. weekday newscast.
The hour-long broadcast starts in September (an exact date hasn't been nailed down) and will be anchored by Martha Vazquez and current weekend anchor John Overall, with weather from Jimmy Stewart. It will bring KVOA's total weekday local news programming to five hours daily, more than any other station in town. The move means Vazquez will step away from her anchoring slot at noon; she'll be replaced by current Tucson Today anchor Josh Benson. "

I watch nothing but KVOA HD for news, and since the 5:30 NBC news is also in HD why would I change channels? I don't understand why the ratings would drop... :confused:

Anybody know of the status of getting Suns games in HD next for us folks in tucson? It appears the folks in PHX will get every home and away game next year in HD:

Link to TVPredictions.com (http://www.tvpredictions.com/nbahd072007.htm)

Anybody know of the status of getting Suns games in HD next for us folks in tucson? It appears the folks in PHX will get every home and away game next year in HD:

Link to TVPredictions.com (http://www.tvpredictions.com/nbahd072007.htm)
In the Suns Press Release (http://www.nba.com/suns/news/release_070720.html) it states that KTTU will be showing the games in HD.

I was just going to speculate KTTU. With the D-Backs moving to KTTU next year, seemed like a perfect fit.

http://www.belo.com/pressRelease.x2?release=20060324-894.html

Now lets hope they will be able to broadcast in HD.

I don't understand why DirecTV does not provide FSNAZ-HD down here. The spot beam reaches just fine.

Is D* even pushing 5LNB dishes and MPEG4-capable receivers down there? No point in launching a new channel with 7 people who can view it. You may get lucky when DirecTV 10 goes live this Fall since it will carry all the RSNs on CONUS beams rather than just spotbeams like they are now on Spaceway. Otherwise, you're probably stuck until Tucson locals launch or you "move" to Pinal or Maricopa county.

Finally have my Cox service set up for a Saturday morning install, getting the HD box (not DVR), I'm assuming I'll be getting the 8300HD. Hopefully it will have the SARA firmware, have people had good experiences with Cox + 8300HD in Tucson? I'm REALLY hoping the Tucson Cox market doesn't compress their channels (at all) - or at least much... :(

Had an HR20 installed in January and they replaced my dish with the 5LNB. I can see a 95 signal on the Phoenix spots. I'd think that spot covers all of AZ with the possible exception of Yuma.

Hopefully, it's not just an issue of rights fees.

gworkman,

Did they install a B-Band Converter for every SAT tuner, if not you need to order one to be able to receive all the extra channels? I ordered 6 for the 3 HR20's. Go to channel 499 to see if one is installed.

Best regards

All set on the B-Band converters. My only issue is that I only have one run going to the HR20. It's nice that this box will allow two recordings with one line (1 Sat/1 OTA or 2OTA), but I'm looking forward to the SWM devices. I hear you'll also be able to use a diplexor once SWM comes out.

Special note to local broadcasters - If you're here..

Please be a little less agressive with the "Weather Warnings". Last night, while watching NBC, a crawl was brought up after every commercial break between 7 and 9. One warning lasted over 4 minutes, explaining to viewers they should postpone travel and stay indoors.

We don't need the reminders during programming. "IF" you "HAVE" to do it, how about one different reminder for each crawl so that you can keep them to less than 1:30.

For KVOA, please reduce the size of the map showing the warning coverage area and remove the bug on the top of the screen.

Finally have my Cox service set up for a Saturday morning install, getting the HD box (not DVR), I'm assuming I'll be getting the 8300HD. Hopefully it will have the SARA firmware, have people had good experiences with Cox + 8300HD in Tucson? I'm REALLY hoping the Tucson Cox market doesn't compress their channels (at all) - or at least much... :(

I'm fairly certain that cox doesn't compress the signals. They just pass on what they get. When scanning the QAM channels there are only ever 2 HD channels on a QAM channel, and maybe an SD channel.

Special note to local broadcasters - If you're here..

Please be a little less agressive with the "Weather Warnings". Last night, while watching NBC, a crawl was brought up after every commercial break between 7 and 9. One warning lasted over 4 minutes, explaining to viewers they should postpone travel and stay indoors.

We don't need the reminders during programming. "IF" you "HAVE" to do it, how about one different reminder for each crawl so that you can keep them to less than 1:30.

For KVOA, please reduce the size of the map showing the warning coverage area and remove the bug on the top of the screen.

KVOA's graphics are going a little overboard. ESPN manages to run a ticker that gives all the scores but allows you to still watch what is on. Why can't the locals do the same? I guess trying to drive audiences to their newscasts.

What's funny is I actually turned to the KOLD weather subchannel during one of our storms to see where it was and where it was going, and they had some entire west coast of the country graphic up and no local information. So not only are they destroying my HD picture with their subchannels, but when there was actual local weather issues, it wasn't being broadcast. Maybe it was just bad timing on my part but I haven't checked again.

All set on the B-Band converters. My only issue is that I only have one run going to the HR20. It's nice that this box will allow two recordings with one line (1 Sat/1 OTA or 2OTA), but I'm looking forward to the SWM devices. I hear you'll also be able to use a diplexor once SWM comes out.
I have 8 lines coming in from the SAT, so I'm pretty well covered in that area.

What is SWM, "Single White Male", or "Switch Matrix Interface"? J/K, no idea what it means, and what does it do for us?

TIA

Monday night they had a loop showing current conditions, a radar zoomed into Ajo, and their weekend forecaster telling us it's going to rain. Not exactly "up to the minute weather".

SWM is a "Single Wire Module". If you notice the input on Sat1 on the HR20, you see it also says SWM. This will allow you to get two sat signals from one cable. There's been alot of talk about it over on dbstalk.com. Still no ETA on when it will be available to us normal folk.

Oh, that's a great feature, luckily I don't think I will need it.

Hi all, I'm a new transplant to the area (Sahuarita actually) and want to voice a +1 to the HD news broadcasts. The PQ is absolutely FANTASTIC and I only watch the news on that channel because of it.

Comcast just added HGTV HD and Food HD. I beleive that gives tucson every HD channel currently avaible on comcast.

Comcast just added HGTV HD and Food HD. I beleive that gives tucson every HD channel currently avaible on comcast. If only Cox would follow in Comcast's footsteps... :(

That is so bizzare... I have ONLY watched KVOA since they moved to HD, their newscast looks fantastic - much better than KGUN and KOLD (with an HDTV).

I have been watching 4's news since they switched to HD, prior to that I allways watched 13 but not since 4 made the switch.

I also find the HD (the anchors first initials) news promos for 13's news disgusting. If they want to really promote their news using HD they should actually switch to HD.

Really tacky promotion!!!

I have been watching 4's news since they switched to HD, prior to that I allways watched 13 but not since 4 made the switch.

I also find the HD (the anchors first initials) news promos for 13's news disgusting. If they want to really promote their news using HD they should actually switch to HD.

Really tacky promotion!!! Had no idea this was happening - extremely tacky (and sounds like false advertising). Wow.

Well, the IDIOTS at Cox forgot to append my service order for HD. The tech showed me the service order while he was at my home, and they never ordered it! They also forgot my Variety/Sports&Info tier! I thought at least that would be an easy fix, but after 15 minutes on the phone with tech support (who sent several hits to the box, showing "everythign is fine" on their end, but still no Variety/Sports&Info channels) I needed to go to work. I'm quite sceptical it will be working when I get home. I honestly do not know what the hell is going on with their salespeople, but it's extremely aggrivating. I had to take off work today to have the cable installed, and now have to take off ANOTHER day because they need to come to my home - again - and swap the crappy regular digi box for a HD box. I'm beyond upset.

In addition, my cable internet is perplexing me a bit - I ordered the premier service, 12mbps, and yet I'm getting strange bandwidth test results. From the Cox recommended site, www.testmy.net, I'm getting around 10.8mbps (not bad). From others like www.bandwidthplace.com, I'm getting around 3.3mbps?! I don't know what to believe, but since the testmy.net site was recommended by my service tech (who said it was the site Cox always uses for speed tests) I am a bit wary of their results - however the page looks completely legit.

Well, the IDIOTS at Cox forgot to append my service order for HD. The tech showed me the service order while he was at my home, and they never ordered it! They also forgot my Variety/Sports&Info tier! I thought at least that would be an easy fix, but after 15 minutes on the phone with tech support (who sent several hits to the box, showing "everythign is fine" on their end, but still no Variety/Sports&Info channels) I needed to go to work. I'm quite sceptical it will be working when I get home. I honestly do not know what the hell is going on with their salespeople, but it's extremely aggrivating. I had to take off work today to have the cable installed, and now have to take off ANOTHER day because they need to come to my home - again - and swap the crappy regular digi box for a HD box. I'm beyond upset.
Your attitude sucks. If they installed on Sat, then you had the choice of at least 6 days to do the install. You don't strike me as one that works too much with the friend's mother paying the bill. Why you didn't schedule on your day off doesn't make any sense. I've called Cox many many times to switch tiers when there was something that was appealing on a channel I don't get, and every time they're polite and it only takes a couple of minutes.

Their office is at about Campbell(Kino)/22nd. It may be more convient to swing by and pick up the right box rather than schedule a service call, which they often give a 4 hour window for. That's what I've done in the past.


In addition, my cable internet is perplexing me a bit - I ordered the premier service, 12mbps, and yet I'm getting strange bandwidth test results. From the Cox recommended site, www.testmy.net, I'm getting around 10.8mbps (not bad). From others like www.bandwidthplace.com, I'm getting around 3.3mbps?! I don't know what to believe, but since the testmy.net site was recommended by my service tech (who said it was the site Cox always uses for speed tests) I am a bit wary of their results - however the page looks completely legit.

Try here with Fort Worth (my results in parens ) http://powervision.sprint.com/mobilebroadband/speedtest/?id9=vanity:speedtest (9885 kbs)
or here with LA http://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/ (12291 kbps)


For the sites you were given I got, www.testmy.net (9776 kbs) www.bandwidthplace.com (3.6 mbps )

I'm not sure what service I have though. It's the $99 bundle and it was only like 4M when I ordered it a couple years back. There are also some Windows settings that you can adjust as well. See this site http://www.dslreports.com/tweaks but I haven't done any tweaks on this PC. I did on another and my tests got slightly better, but general inet usage I can't tell a difference.

Your attitude sucks. If they installed on Sat, then you had the choice of at least 6 days to do the install. You don't strike me as one that works too much with the friend's mother paying the bill. Why you didn't schedule on your day off doesn't make any sense. I've called Cox many many times to switch tiers when there was something that was appealing on a channel I don't get, and every time they're polite and it only takes a couple of minutes. My attitude sucks? Excuse me?! I ordered this service two weeks ago, called to confirm they had the order correct (which they did), and when the guy shows up - he has the wrong box - I have to take an additional day off of work - and my attitude sucks?! I'm paying a VERY high bill for HD cable (I am paying the $42.95 for expanded, PLUS the additional digital + HD package). The channels are not coming in even though Cox tells me everything is showing up no their end fine (channels in the Variety tier and the Sports&Info tier). I get the "unauthorized" message, and they refuse to help me because my name is not on the account. I've been unable to get in touch with the account holder, who resides in Massachusettes. I expect to get what I pay for, and any less is unacceptable! The Saturday that was open was the ONLY time they had open for another 10 days.

P.S. I have a Mac - the whole house is Mac (won't litter it with PCs). Depending on what bandwidth sites I use, I get anywhere between 3.3mbps and 22mbps. Crazy differences on what site I use (doesn't equate to distance - I can get 22mbps from a server in North California, and 3.3mbps from Phoenix).

P.S. I have a Mac - the whole house is Mac (won't litter it with PCs). Depending on what bandwidth sites I use, I get anywhere between 3.3mbps and 22mbps. Crazy differences on what site I use (doesn't equate to distance - I can get 22mbps from a server in North California, and 3.3mbps from Phoenix).

Now that is just a crazy difference. I think the rates have much more to do with how the different networks connect, what backbone, the server you're pulling from, time of day, etc. Personally I think it's safe to say that I'm getting all the bandwidth advertised from Cox, when the other end can keep up.

Sorry about the jibe, apparently it was my attitude that sucked the other night...

I'm paying a VERY high bill for HD cable (I am paying the $42.95 for expanded, PLUS the additional digital + HD package).
I thought you once said your benefactor from Mass. was paying for it, and that's why you needed to get the best buy for the bucks, because she wouldn't change once installed? If so, then perhaps that's why he/she thought your attitude sucked.

Makes sense to me!

I thought you once said your benefactor from Mass. was paying for it, and that's why you needed to get the best buy for the bucks, because she wouldn't change once installed? If so, then perhaps that's why he/she thought your attitude sucked.

Makes sense to me!

I don't understand. Even if someone did have their bill being paid for by another person, does that absolve Cox of the responsibility to show up at an appointment with the correct equipment? Does that mean that someone no longer has any right to be upset at missing a day off of work due to someone else's incompetence?

I have to agree with the people that are complaining about Cox service. I happen to be with Comcast but my son has Cox and virtually every time he has to deal with them about anything it becomes a nightmare. I have been able to record HD programs from the firewire output on my cablebox since it first came out which is a mandate of the Feds but my son has been trying to get his activated (which the firewire output is required to be active) and they still have not done it after numerous requests and phone conversations. That is just one of the issues that he has had to deal with that the Comcast people take for granted. Comcast has had most of the local channels in HD for a long time but Cox is taking forever to supply the local HD channels.

The management at Cox in Tucson just plain sucks and either doesn't care or is just plain incompetent and needs to be replaced. Other Cox areas including Phoenix do not have the same problems as the Tucson area has to live with.

The Firewire output is basically worthless since it will only work with a real DVHS deck. Cox pushed out new firmware to AZ last year that intentionally broke PC/Mac recording and AFAIK they never released an update to fix it. Tucson really isn't any different of a system from Phoenix; the biggest problem is that there is no local support in Tucson because the entire region is run from Phoenix so you tend to end up with CSRs who don't have information about the local channel lineup. As for the techs who install, they are usually subcontractors and out of Cox's direct control.

The Firewire output is basically worthless since it will only work with a real DVHS deck. Cox pushed out new firmware to AZ last year that intentionally broke PC/Mac recording and AFAIK they never released an update to fix it. Tucson really isn't any different of a system from Phoenix; the biggest problem is that there is no local support in Tucson because the entire region is run from Phoenix so you tend to end up with CSRs who don't have information about the local channel lineup. As for the techs who install, they are usually subcontractors and out of Cox's direct control.

This is not completely true, if a Tucson customer contacts the billing department you WILL get a rep that works in Tucson. All other departments will be Phoenix however.

Also, whoever said they had no open installs available for 10 days is flat out lying. My brother placed an order on 7/24 and had a pro install done on 7/26. There were plenty of dates available after that.

The Firewire output is basically worthless since it will only work with a real DVHS deck. Cox pushed out new firmware to AZ last year that intentionally broke PC/Mac recording and AFAIK they never released an update to fix it. .

Both my son and I have DVHS decks and I record to mine via firewire from the cable box. My son was able to record for a short while after much work to get it turned on and then the firewire was turned off again and they haven't been able to turn it on again. I actually know a number of people in Tucson that record and archive to DVHS decks. I have been doing it for years.

It is one of the mandates of the FCC that as I recall requires that all HD boxes after as I remember around April 2004 must have a firewire output and it must be active as one of their license requirements from the FCC. Comcast just automatically turned on their firewire even before that date with out even having to request it. Cox admits to my son that it is supposed to work and that they will take care of it but just never follow through and actually do it.

Does anybody know about Pavlov Media? As of today Cox is no longer my provider for the three big services and now its controlled by Pavlov Media. I am a student at the U of A, and live in a student housing complex "The Reserve at Star Pass"which is about a half a mile from the Star Pass Resort. After going on their website, which leaves much to be desired, it's a company that specializes in aparment complexes. I can't tell what HD channels they recieve, DVR, and or the prices...or much of anything.

Anyone have any knowledge of this company please let me know.

-J

For anyone who might be interested or might know someone that might be interested, I have a JVC HM-DH30000u D-VHS Digital VCR for sale. It can be used to record HD (up to 1080i) via firewire from a cable box, or HDTV (some have firewire out), or OTA HD receiver with firewire output as has been mentioned in the last few posts.

I used the VCR for only a few months before I built an HTPC to record HD. I got it new open box on Ebay, and it is still in like new condition. I have the original remote, user manual, box, cables, and I have 7 D-VHS 300 tapes which are good for 2-1/2 hrs of HD recording each. I've used the tapes to record 5 - 10 times each. I'd like to get $200 for the VCR and $25 for the D-VHS tapes if whoever wants the VCR would like the tapes also.

I also have an ATI HDTV Wonder PCI card for recording OTA HD on a PC. I bought it new and used it for a few months, replaced it with a dual tuner card so I could record more programs. Comes with a remote and an indoor OTA HD antenna similar to the Silver Sensor style. Asking $50 for this, original box, cables, etc.

Thanks in advance if anyone is interested, or could let me know of someone else who might be.

Just to let you know I am pretty new at this whole thing.

I live in the middle of town, about 10 miles from most of the towers, and trying to get the digital broadcasts from the local stations. (I am mainly concerned about ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX) I live in a small condo so an outdoor antenna is out. I am currently using rabbit ears and they just aren't cutting it. For a couple of months it seemed ok, but now I can’t get ABC that well and I can’t get CBS at all. Does anyone have any suggestions for a good small indoor antenna?

Just to let you know I am pretty new at this whole thing.

I live in the middle of town, about 10 miles from most of the towers, and trying to get the digital broadcasts from the local stations. (I am mainly concerned about ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX) I live in a small condo so an outdoor antenna is out. I am currently using rabbit ears and they just aren't cutting it. For a couple of months it seemed ok, but now I can’t get ABC that well and I can’t get CBS at all. Does anyone have any suggestions for a good small indoor antenna?

Rabbit ears are designed for VHF, but all the HD signals in Tucson are all UHF. You should look into getting a UHF antenna. The Silver sensor is a recommended model, but I personally haven't used them and I'm not sure where you can get them. But for your location a basic amplified UHF antenna would probably work.

Just to let you know I am pretty new at this whole thing.

I live in the middle of town, about 10 miles from most of the towers, and trying to get the digital broadcasts from the local stations. (I am mainly concerned about ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX) I live in a small condo so an outdoor antenna is out. I am currently using rabbit ears and they just aren't cutting it. For a couple of months it seemed ok, but now I can’t get ABC that well and I can’t get CBS at all. Does anyone have any suggestions for a good small indoor antenna?

I live on the eastside (near Broadway & Harrison) and this is the indoor antenna I use...

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007XDI54/sr=8-1/qid=1186224467******cm_cr_asin_lnk/103-3575158-3279859?ie=UTF8&qid=1186224467&sr=8-1

It used to be known as the Zenith Silver Sensor but is now produced as a Philips product. I have one on each of two Hi-Def TVs and they both work great. It does a good job of "looking through walls" and must be pointed toward the transmitter location (Mt Bigelow for the big four network affiliates).

Kirk

For a couple of months it seemed ok, but now I can’t get ABC that well and I can’t get CBS at all. Does anyone have any suggestions for a good small indoor antenna?

I don't know if anyone else has noticed but the signal strength for both KOLD and KGUN (CBS and ABC) seems to be 75-80% of what it used to be a week or two ago before all the storms we've been having. I used to get all stations fine, but have been having break ups and drops on CBS and ABC, NBC seems to be fine and FOX definitely better than CBS/ABC, and KUAS (PBS) has been hit and miss, not sure what kind of issues they've been having.

It's possible my coax from my antenna on the roof has issues with the humidity, or there's something going on up on the mountain so the stations power isn't as strong as it normally is, which might be why your antenna was working fine for awhile and now it's not. Can't hurt to get a better antenna though so all of your signals will be stronger. If things don't go back to normal soon for me, I'm going to have to troubleshoot my cables and connections. Good Luck.

My sister is taking up residence north of Tucson in an area served by Comcast. I live in Phoenix and am unfamiliar with the hardware offered by Comcast down that way so I am looking for some help in advising her. She is planning on getting a 37" or a 42" LCD HD TV as she likes what we have here, but she was talking of skipping Comcast HD service and using an old S2 Tivo to do her recording and time-shifting. I strongly urged her to reconsider and said she would be happier with a 37" and HD than a 42" and SD, especially after it was run through an old Tivo.

Can someone tell me what hardware Comcast in Tucson provides? Here, Cox provides SD STBs and DVRs that cannot even tune HD channels, even if you are willing to watch them through an S-Video out (which, I gather, is about DVD quality and would be satisfactory for her -- she is a little price conscious). What are the capabilities of Comcast SD equipment? How is their HD equipment? How good is their guide and interface -- is it so bad people would be tempted to buy a Tivo HD instead?

(If I missed some recent postings here that would answer my questions I apologize. I did search but came up empty.)

It seems like the PBS stations are up to something. My tuner was having some real issues tuning past 6.1. I was on 4.1, tuned to 6.1 and the TV went to 27.1. Tuned to KOLD then to 27.1, pressed channel up and went to 6.4. I know we have a resident PBS expert here...what's up?

I have been having the same problem. I watch 27.1 a lot but lately this 6.1-6.4 keeps coming up. The only way I can get 27.1 is to come to it from the station above or the after station and it usually turns to 27.1. Clicking on any of the four will not accomplish anything. This had to be designed by a --------!

Tony

This may or may not be related but for the last couple of weeks my QAM tuner hooked to Comcast shows 200, 201, 202 as ENCRYPTED. I added these about a year ago at 807.10 MHz, maybe they have been remapped. On the expensive Moto Comcast cable box these same channels used to work even when I was getting the ENCRYPTED message...today I checked and I am getting the "Channel will be available shortly" message. 200 on the cable box is listed at KUATK, 201 is KUATU, and 202 is KUATP. Rarely is there anything I watch on the subs as I prefer KUAS almost all the time, it is working fine on the QAM (around 603MHz) and the cable box. Something is messed up.

folks
this might be privileged information but...kuat's antenna was hit by lightning. so it will be a while until they get it back to full power.
let's all be patience for a change.

I am not sure what you mean by privileged since KVOA was showing a picture of the darkened tower last week(might have been this week)....and in my case the encryption issue was happening way before then. :)

ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX HD Off the Air vs. via satellite.
Not sure how to start with a new question in this forum so I'll post a reply here.

I live far NE Tucson using Direct TV with HD receiver and TV. I'm blocked by a ridge from Mt. Bigelow from where all these HD channels are broadcast for local reception. I applied for a waiver so I could get HD from the Los Angeles Feed. It took six weeks and only ABC approved. The others denied without explanation. Anyone have any suggestions? Direct TV says they are gradually rolling out satellite HD Local channels but Tucson is not in the queue yet. Phoenix has it already.

ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX HD Off the Air vs. via satellite.
Not sure how to start with a new question in this forum so I'll post a reply here.

I live far NE Tucson using Direct TV with HD receiver and TV. I'm blocked by a ridge from Mt. Bigelow from where all these HD channels are broadcast for local reception. I applied for a waiver so I could get HD from the Los Angeles Feed. It took six weeks and only ABC approved. The others denied without explanation. Anyone have any suggestions? Direct TV says they are gradually rolling out satellite HD Local channels but Tucson is not in the queue yet. Phoenix has it already.

Posting a reply was the correct way to add to this thread. If your TV has a QAM tuner you can get the cheapest Comcast service and you should be able to tune the local HD's. They'll have silly numbers, see the posts on the first page, and they won't integrate into you DTV reciever, and you won't be able to recorded them without a Comcast DVR or Media PC. But for ~$15 a month you can get them if you have a QAM tuner.

Also, I think those in Pinal county can get Phoenix locals. Not sure if you're that far north or not.

Also, I think those in Pinal county can get Phoenix locals.
Yep, through D*, and in HD.

Thanks. That provides one option. I don't have a QAM tuner and I left Comcast because of continual interruptions, picture freezes on all digital channels so I'm reluctant to pay more money to them for a tuner so I can get the HD channels but I'll think about it.

folks
this might be privileged information but...kuat's antenna was hit by lightning. so it will be a while until they get it back to full power.
let's all be patience for a change.

We just posted some photos on our site :)

http://www.kuat.org/notice/smoke.jpg
http://www.kuat.org/notice/scorch.jpg

Qwijib0 - great photos. I would think lightning is a regular occurence up there and would then guess that there is substantial protection designed into the antenna structure. Was it an abnormal lightning strike that hit this time?

That's one expensive lighting rod :^ 0 Good luck with the repairs ;)

Thanks for the help, guys... but I gave up on trying to get OTA HDTV from deep in the shadows of the Catalinas (see post http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=3385607&&#post3385607)
I've been living with the channels available on basic Comcast cable, but I may upgrade to "digital" and get their STBs.

Anyway, I still have a mint OTA tuner:
Zenith HDV-420

and a top-of-the-line antenna setup:
Channel Master 4228 UHF antenna
Channel Master 9521A rotator with remote
Channel Master 7775 "Titan 2" preamp

I'll let this stuff go cheap to help out a local. I'll even throw in a 10' mast, clamps, rotator cable, etc.

PM me or email at dmilne . at . dakotacom.net

I don't know if this is the right place to put this post but.. I was flicking through the channels and noticed that KMSBs HD and SD feed are down. I dunno what happened wither the station had a major technical fault or something.

Here's some caps:

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/3429/08112007211018mk6.th.jpg (http://img170.imageshack.us/my.php?image=08112007211018mk6.jpg)
SD
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/8827/08112007212116hj6.th.jpg (http://img227.imageshack.us/my.php?image=08112007212116hj6.jpg)

HD

EDIT: SD is back, HD off

Is this usual for KMSB to do this sometimes?

I live in NE Tucson and get great reception, so I get all the OTA Locals in HD (except for the damage from those recent lightning strikes)..

I have the high speed comcast cable but SDTV cable channels from DirecTV. I keep wanting to move to Comcast (would be cheaper for sure) but I dont want to use a crappy moto DVR, since I'm used to my Mediacenter PC for Local HDTV now and my Series 1 tivo for TV.

I then came across the HD HomeRun, which is a dual QAM/ATSC Tuner. I was thinking if I could bump up my comcast subscription to Digital cable, and perhaps add HD, I could funnel these channels to my mediacenter PC and ditch DirecTV.

My question is: Has anyone tried this? in our area with Comcast, are some/any/most of the digital cable channels unencrypted? I'm sure the Locals are but I already get those with my antenna and VBox.

Thanks for any help.

I had Cox in Surprise, and with my QAM/ATSC TV Tuner I only received about a dozen or so QAM channels that were not encrypted, so my guess is, that it would not be worth it.

Where in NE Tucson do you live? If you can see the antennas on Mt. Bigelow I can understand why you get OTA HD local channels. I'm at Snyder and Soldier Tr. and there is a ridge blocking my view of Mt. Bigelow (Mt. Lemmon). I never got any Over the Air channels since moving here in 1989. The Direct TV installers said I wouldn't be able to get OTA local HD reception.
Be careful with Comcast. I had them for 15 years and service was OK. As soon as I went "digital and HD" I had nothing but problems with reception. I called them for service no less than 20 times. I had frozen pictures, pixelization in all the channels above 100 (digital channels) frequently and intermittently. They would seem to get it fixed occasionally but then it would be back a week later. Usually they would come out and not be able to duplicate it during normal work hours. I gave up and am happy with the reception on Direct TV. No problems like I had with Comcast at all. My only disappointment is the inability to get NBC, CBS, FOX in HDTV. ABC accepted my waiver so I get the LA feed. The other three denied my request.

Qwijib0 - great photos. I would think lightning is a regular occurence up there and would then guess that there is substantial protection designed into the antenna structure. Was it an abnormal lightning strike that hit this time?

The tower can handle most strikes without a problem-- This was a particularly strong strike that generated enough heat with all the current to cause the fiberglass antenna shield to catch fire, melting and scorching various internal components.

Where in NE Tucson do you live? If you can see the antennas on Mt. Bigelow I can understand why you get OTA HD local channels. I'm at Snyder and Soldier Tr. and there is a ridge blocking my view of Mt. Bigelow (Mt. Lemmon). I never got any Over the Air channels since moving here in 1989. The Direct TV installers said I wouldn't be able to get OTA local HD reception.
Be careful with Comcast. I had them for 15 years and service was OK. As soon as I went "digital and HD" I had nothing but problems with reception. I called them for service no less than 20 times. I had frozen pictures, pixelization in all the channels above 100 (digital channels) frequently and intermittently. They would seem to get it fixed occasionally but then it would be back a week later. Usually they would come out and not be able to duplicate it during normal work hours. I gave up and am happy with the reception on Direct TV. No problems like I had with Comcast at all. My only disappointment is the inability to get NBC, CBS, FOX in HDTV. ABC accepted my waiver so I get the LA feed. The other three denied my request.


I'm at Sabino Canyon & Snyder, and I have a mostly unobstructed view of the towers. I have comcast already for internet, and used to have signal problems until they came out and replaced corroded cables in the box by the street. I have been monitoring signal strength (upstream and downstream) every 5 minutes and tracking the data over the last year, and it is pretty good. So I am hopefully that digital cable would be OK. However, it's sounding like most of the channels except for the locals will be encrypted QAM.

I'm at Sabino Canyon & Snyder, and I have a mostly unobstructed view of the towers. I have comcast already for internet, and used to have signal problems until they came out and replaced corroded cables in the box by the street. I have been monitoring signal strength (upstream and downstream) every 5 minutes and tracking the data over the last year, and it is pretty good. So I am hopefully that digital cable would be OK. However, it's sounding like most of the channels except for the locals will be encrypted QAM.

I don't know anything about QAM. All I know is that i had problems w/ Comcast. Possible that it could have been the Motorola DVR all along too....although they never even hinted at that.

I may have to wait until Tucson is added to Direct TV's list for getting local network in HDTV. Many cities are being added. Tucson is not scheduled yet. Good luck!

HD Signal issues: My experiences with COMCAST also include the need for them to actually "fix" the problem. In the past I have had several attempts by contractors whose real goal was to move on to the next job and not do the work to fix the signal level problem. On the third try I strongly suggested they send a real badged COMCAST employee. They did, he was great, and measured signal strength at the post, at the splitter, and at the outlet where the Moto DVR was. Something was wrong and they replaced about 20 feet of ugly corroded cable from the post to my house where the splitter was. Since then all has been well, before HD and channels above 100 would do all kinds of annoying things like Mesquite57 describes. Also if you have "cableguard" they warrant the wires inside your house, I believe if you have any "premium" you have cableguard ( http://www.comcast.com/customers/faq/FaqDetails.ashx?ID=78).

QAM: very interesting what you can get off the QAM with a good tuner. All the locals that are HD and several weird things like Tennis, some cartoon channel, ESPN Classic, a bunch of others I don't watch. I have not found a list that shows what is on unencrypted QAM but I have lots of fun recording the Tucson locals and other things.... :-0

Finally, while the Moto DVR sucks at times, it is not totally terrible and it is integrated. There are no cablecard issues and I do like the limited "free" HD on demand. It is at the level of toleration just an inch above annoyance. There is a huge TIVO on COMCAST thread that will nauseate you about when you will be given the privilege of paying more for the TIVO on COMCAST GUI....not holding my breath and I am damned sure if it is more than $1 I wont pay extra for it.

I'm still disappointed with Cox's lineup. Mojo and Dhd are (IMO) the two best HD channels we have, along with MHD. Where's my FOOD, HGTV, etc?! COME ON COX!

Well Mongoos...you asked our opinion and chose Cox. Dish is far superior this week and DirecTV will be the best in 3 weeks. Any complaints you have with Cox falls on deaf ears. They never visit here and the focus of "Cox Arizona" is that town 100 miles west of us. Should have picked satellite.

Should have picked satellite.
My thoughts exactly!!!

DirecTV will be the best in 3 weeks.


What happens in 3 weeks?
-- Scott

DirecTv adds the new HD channels to their lineup in about 3 weeks. The new sat is just about in place and has been undergoing testing.

Dave

As DRDED stated, their expecting to start rolling out the HD channels in mid September. Additionally, their VOD Beta is starting to hit some of the external testers. The VOD has some HD content. I simply can't understand why anybody would choose Cox as their video service provider. I currently pay DirecTV $129/month. This includes 1 HD DVR, 5 SD DVRs, and the premium package. Additionally, I am seeing about 15 HD baseball games a week on Extra Innings. I'd probably pay Cox $90 in DVR rental fees alone.

Looks like NFL HD is back on Cox Cable 734. For tonights SF vs San D game.

I haven't noticed anyone complaining about KOLD 13-1 drop outs. They're so annoying it's hard to sit through an entire program. Seems to happen mainly at night when there is something worth watching.

Did I miss a report on this somewhere? It happens both OTA and on Comcast DVR box (though more pronounced here). So I know it's not just me. Thanks.

I haven't noticed anyone complaining about KOLD 13-1 drop outs. They're so annoying it's hard to sit through an entire program. Seems to happen mainly at night when there is something worth watching.

Did I miss a report on this somewhere? It happens both OTA and on Comcast DVR box (though more pronounced here). So I know it's not just me. Thanks.

Unfortunately, I think we are all getting used to this ineptitude from KOLD. The only show I've watch much on KOLD this summer has been Big Brother. And throughout those recordings there are many glitches. I was going to switch the recorder to OTA instead of QAM, but my wife said it was the same one night when she watched it live, which we use the antenna for.

ESPNHD blackout on Cox.

Anyone know why ESPNHD is currently blacked out? It's showing on ESPN fine. I called Cox and there was a recording saying they were sorry or something like that.

I'm just hoping the Tenn-Cal game is in HD tonight or I'll be quite upset.

Oh it's back. Not sure what the deal with that was.

Edit: The game I want is on ABC, ESPN is working well. All is good

I also noticed this when the UGA vs OKSt game was not on ESPN2HD. The Nevada vs Nebraska game ran late so they started the UGA game on ESPN for some reason ESPN HD was on blackout. So I had to watch on SD until the other game wrapped up then switched back to ESPN2HD. No idea why ESPN HD was blacked out maybe 1st week jitters?

Email from KVOA:


While Directv is very circumspect about their launches...a couple of
sources indicate Tucson should be on the launch...and we had heard mid
September.

Again, to put in perspective...nothing directly from the satellite
provider...however, we are hopeful.

Thanks for your interest.

Gary Nielsen
President and General Manager
KVOA
NEWS 4 Tucson

-----Original Message-----

Sent: Wednesday, September 05, 2007 4:31 PM
To: Gary Nielsen
Subject: Contact Us - Request

EmailTo: , gnielsen@kvoa.com
FormName: Contact Us
message: To whom it may concern,
Directv is launching numerous HD channels and I was wondering if KVOA
was
going to be included in their list of HD locals available on satellite.
Thanks

I believe the first satellite is intended for National HD. The second bird is going up in a few months and is listed as capable of 1500 local HD channels. A bit more patience, but we'll get there soon enough.

I've seen the Phoenix HD locals delivered through DirecTV and, I've gotta tell you, the picture quality is outstanding.

I've seen the Phoenix HD locals delivered through DirecTV and, I've gotta tell you, the picture quality is outstanding.
As you know, I am living proof that it is!!! I love it, plus their HR20 DVR, which they seem to have all the bugs fixed now.

Unfortunately, I think we are all getting used to this ineptitude from KOLD. The only show I've watch much on KOLD this summer has been Big Brother. And throughout those recordings there are many glitches. I was going to switch the recorder to OTA instead of QAM, but my wife said it was the same one night when she watched it live, which we use the antenna for.Thanks for the confirmation. It's funny that they seem to have improved almost immediately after my post :confused:. Except for some audio dropouts last night it was going quite well. I just hope they can get it to near 100% before the new lineup starts!

The Comcast QAM channels listed in post #2 are out of date. Below is what I am currently receiving (excluding duplicate and junk channels). The local stations all have an HD and SD channel with duplicate content, so I only included the HD channel.

I apologize for the format. You can copy the text and save it as a .csv file and open it in Excel if you like. I've also attached a PDF version which includes all the music channels. I hope others find this helpful. Please let me know if you see any errors or omissions.

Chan,Name,Mode
4-1,NBC (KVOA),1080
9-1,ABC (KGUN),720
87-1,MyTV (KTTU),1080
87-2,PBS-DT (KUAT),1080
88-1,Fox (KMSB),720
88-2,CBS (KOLD),1080
88-3,The Tube,480
88-4,Weather,480
98-4,PBS-DT1,480
114-5,CW (KWBA),1080
116-1,ESPN News,480
116-2,ESPN Classic,480
116-3,CSPN3,480
116-5,Lifetime Movie,480
120-1,PBS-DT2 Kids,480
120-2,PBS-DT4 Create,480
120-3,PBS-DT3,480
129-2,Mojo,1080
132-9,Showtime Beyond,480

==========================

NOTE: As of late Sept, the info in this post is already out of date. Search for later posts for updated info.

Thanks for the info Spocko.

I updated post #2 and also added the other free HD channels since we were getting away from local HD anyway. Just couldn't change the title. :rolleyes:

I understand they are installing an HD transmitter on Tummeroc hill. Has anyone heard any rumblings as to when it might crank up?

I believe the first satellite is intended for National HD. The second bird is going up in a few months and is listed as capable of 1500 local HD channels. A bit more patience, but we'll get there soon enough.

I've seen the Phoenix HD locals delivered through DirecTV and, I've gotta tell you, the picture quality is outstanding.

i have to agree.. i would be very surpised if D* turned on any more hd locals this year, but also very happy if they did turn tucson on..

Is anyone using Tucson Comcast limited basic with TIVO HD? I am curious if I will get the run around asking for cablecards and downgrading my service from Comcast. I have seen posts in other markets saying comcast is doing this but it is not always easy.

I just want a DVR and local QAM channels. I figure I will save about $700 a year going down this path. Comcast in its inflexability will not offer HD DVR with limited basic. They loose. There are more upfront costs but even with the Tivo subscription it saves money in the long run.

I can't continue paying $120 a month for cable and internet. I may be a minority in this group but I find that cable is basically 100+ channels with nothing on. :eek:

Cheers All

wsahd: I do not think you will need the cable card for local HD channels. I used to live in a Comcast service area and had a HD TV with QUAM tunner and cable card. After I had the cable card removed I was still able to get Bacic cable and the local HD channels.
All that I lost was the premium HD channels and the SD digital channels.

wsahd: I do not think you will need the cable card for local HD channels.

That is correct. Local channels are available on Comcast in HD via a QAM tuner, even without a cable card or "digital" cable subscription. I don' t know if this will always be true, but at this time it is. I currently have the "expanded basic" analog subscription, but I am able to get local channels in HD via the QAM tuner in my TV.

I am seeing two 4-1 channels, duplicate 13-1,-2,-3, and doubles of 6-x channels on the guide. I have Directv with an OTA antenna. Without pulling my OTA anntenna (because I don't want to lose 11-1 due to football). Is Directv providing HD locals?????

Well my excitement may have been short lived. I can't duplicate the channel guide (multiple HD channels) on my second receiver. May have messed something up by setting up the antenna on my primary receiver.

Is Directv providing HD locals?????
Apparently only in Pinal, at least I have them, although the Phoenix feeds.

Tucson locals are definitely not here (yet). Even when they do show up, they will not be listed as a 13.1, 13.2, 13.3 setup. They typically only deliver the main channel and it will be listed with the call letters, not the channel number. Must have been one of those flukes with the equipment.

Hey gang, I upgraded my Directv hr-10 to an hr-20 700 yesterday, and now I am able to get the 9 and 13 digitals. Woo hoo! -RP

I've been getting the QAM signals for 2+ years now and they just quite working last weekend (16 Sept). Has anyone else noticed this? I called the local comcast customer (no)service number and the lady there was clueless saying that they were not part of the service. I called an "inside" guy I have dealt with before and I'll see what happens.

I'm in 85742
Jim

They all are still working for me. Comcast in 85718 zip.

I've been getting the QAM signals for 2+ years now and they just quite working last weekend (16 Sept). Has anyone else noticed this?

I'm in zip 85750, and it appears that Comcast has rearranged the QAM channels in the last week or so. The good news is that the major networks (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX) now match their broadcast channel numbers, and they include program info. Here's what I'm currently receiving (omitting junk, duplicates and Spanish channels):

Chan Name Format
4-1 NBC (KVOA) 1080
9-1 ABC (KGUN) 720
11-1 Fox (KMSB) 720
13-1 CBS (KOLD) 1080
13-2 Weather 480
13-3 The Tube 480
87-1 MyTV (KTTU) 1080
87-2 PBS-DT (KUAT) 1080
98-9 PBS-DT1 480
115-5 CW (KWBA) 1080
119-1 Movieplex 480
121-1 PBS-DT2 Kids 480
121-2 PBS-DT4 Create 480
121-3 PBS-DT3 480
129-2 Mojo 1080

Since these are subject to change, perhaps it makes sense to reduce post #2 back to just the local channels.

I talked to a tech guy at Comcast and he mentioned the channel rearrangement but I found out what was causing my problem. I unplugged my set for a short time and afterward my QAM channels started working - weird but I'lll take it.
Jim

...perhaps it makes sense to reduce post #2 back to just the local channels.QAM channels updated. Thanks!

That is correct. Local channels are available on Comcast in HD via a QAM tuner, even without a cable card or "digital" cable subscription. I don' t know if this will always be true, but at this time it is. I currently have the "expanded basic" analog subscription, but I am able to get local channels in HD via the QAM tuner in my TV.
Thanks to all for the responses. My problem is I have no QAM Tuner on my TV. Believe it or not the new TIVO HD does not have a QAM tuner built in so you are forced to get cable cards to pick up the HD. I went ahead and downgraded to limited basic and requested the cable cards. They had no pause in doing any of this although Comcast is having big cable card issues read below for more details:

Comcast Cable Card Info as of 9-22-07
Comcast requires that they install these cards at your house for a cost of $38
The first card is free and part of your service. Any additional cards are $1.50 per month
They have now cancelled three install appointments with me saying they were out of cards. I am now three weeks without them.
After the third cancellation today a tech finally gave me the truth - Comcast Tucson is having large technical issues with cable cards. They are testing a new batch and are currently saying they are unavailable for at least two more weeks.
You would think Comcast would have this technology figured out by now. I will post more info as I work through this with Comcast.

Since this post is getting long I will also provide some feedback on my TIVO HD experience so far separately.

Comcast requires that they install these cards at your house for a cost of $38


Interesting. Last time I inquired about cable cards, about 2 months ago, I was told that I could come by their office and pick one up for self-installation at no charge. I guess that has changed.

Thanks for sharing your experience. I am planning to go with a cable card eventually.

Does anyone else record or tune Cox via QAM? It seems they've changed many of their mappings, and for some reason, I'm tuning KUASDT for 7 or 8 different channels. I use HD HomeRuns.

I'll be switching them to the antenna as I don't have much time to troubleshoot today and all the copies of KUAS are getting confusing....

That is correct. Local channels are available on Comcast in HD via a QAM tuner, even without a cable card or "digital" cable subscription. I don' t know if this will always be true, but at this time it is. I currently have the "expanded basic" analog subscription, but I am able to get local channels in HD via the QAM tuner in my TV.


I believe the local HD channels are not scrambled because that is a federal mandate.

I had no idea FSN Arizona will have exclusive D-Backs rights for the next several years. I found this chat transcript on MLB.com which states they "intend" to broadcast all games in HD next year.

http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070906&content_id=2193469&vkey=news_ari&fext=.jsp&c_id=ari

abennett: As I'm sure you know, every home game on KTVK-TV 3 is currently broadcast in HDTV [high definition television]. With FSN Arizona being awarded exclusive local broadcast rights starting next season, will they be increasing the number of games broadcast in HDTV?

HALL: Great question -- and what a difference on HD. It is our understanding that FSNA intends to do all 150 games in high definition. That will be terrific. I have also received a lot of questions regarding Monday's game and why we did not televise. FSNA was not able to, and chose not to, and we could not televise on Channel 3 because of the MDA Telethon.

Did anyone else hear a female voice counting 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 three times about 21:55? I don't know if this was a local problem, on the NBC feed, or a Cox problem.

Speaking of Cox, I had a grey screen on most of my cable channels from 15:45 - 17:20, and the HSI speeds are still really slow.

http://support.cox.com/sdcxuser/asp/cox_networkstatus.asp

My Cox internet connection was out for several hours Wednesday evening. I was told a cable had been cut and that repairs were in progress. That may explain your "testing...testing" count.

The counting was something from KVOA or national. Likely the local KVOA news team prepping for their show and the mix got messed up somehow. I heard the same thing on my OTA recording at the end of that new show, Life, I think.

Does anyone with Comcast know...?

I have Comcast cable internet without cable TV. The regular price for this is $57.95/mo - a ridiculous price, but I usually call every 6 months or so to get on a promo price.

I am told that regular speeds should be somewhere around 6000/500, but that there is also now Powerboost that speeds that up significantly.

I am consistently getting speeds of about 4000/360, which is okay, but it doesn't seem like I'm getting what I'm paying for. I called support, but they were clueless. They are sending out a tech tomorrow, but I don't think it is a technical issue.

Over at DSL reports, I was told that if you don't have cable TV, they put you in the "economy" Tier of 4000/360, with no Powerboost. That hardly seems fair - considering the price.

Anyone have any thoughts or recommendations as to how I might fix this?

Thanks.

Thanks to all for the responses. My problem is I have no QAM Tuner on my TV. Believe it or not the new TIVO HD does not have a QAM tuner built in so you are forced to get cable cards to pick up the HD.
Comcast Cable Card Info as of 9-22-07
Comcast requires that they install these cards at your house for a cost of $38
The first card is free and part of your service. Any additional cards are $1.50 per month
They have now cancelled three install appointments with me saying they were out of cards. I am now three weeks without them.
After the third cancellation today a tech finally gave me the truth - Comcast Tucson is having large technical issues with cable cards. They are testing a new batch and are currently saying they are unavailable for at least two more weeks.
You would think Comcast would have this technology figured out by now. I will post more info as I work through this with Comcast.

Since this post is getting long I will also provide some feedback on my TIVO HD experience so far separately.

The TivoHD has a Qam Tuner......

You may have a faulty unit!

It seems that Cox has either renamed 723 or changed the channels again. There is nothing listed on the channel lineup page at http://www.cox.com/arizona/cable_lineup.asp# and Zap2it still list it as DHD http://tvlistings4.zap2it.com/cox/grid.asp?partner_id=coxoneoff . The only thing that I could find relevant on Discovery's website is Discovery HD Theater
is now called HD Theater is their new channel announcements at http://dhd.discovery.com/simulcast/simulcast.html

It seems that Cox has either renamed 723 or changed the channels again. There is nothing listed on the channel lineup page at http://www.cox.com/arizona/cable_lineup.asp# and Zap2it still list it as DHD http://tvlistings4.zap2it.com/cox/grid.asp?partner_id=coxoneoff . The only thing that I could find relevant on Discovery's website is Discovery HD Theater
is now called HD Theater is their new channel announcements at http://dhd.discovery.com/simulcast/simulcast.html

ya it's a Discovery thing...

With the launch of the Discovery SD channel in HD the name change was done to differentiate the two....

Sorry, I am unable to figure out how to post a new thread.

My issue:
HD picture quality on KOLD is no where near as good - even worse than the SD - as the rest of Tucson locals, off the antenna.

I notice it most on 60 Minutes, rubber faces is what I call it.

Any insight to what is going on?

Thanks
Bob

I too see the rubbery wobbly faces on 60 minutes....I thought I was imagining this, but it has been going on for a while.

What the heck is that?

My wife loves Oprah and her set looks like they have no lights on and all you see are the face of Oprah and the guests. It looks like they just invented TV and have no idea what their broadcasting.

Anyone know what happened the HD feed of the CW on Comcast, its been gone for 2 days now, my TV displays "Audio Only' but there is no picture or sound.


Oh and hey, hello everyone had my HDTV for about a month now and have been lurking in here off and on last few weeks, thanks for all the great info. I bought the Philips 47 LCD from Costco for $1699 and love it.

Does anyone know why KVOA & KOLD does not pass 5.1 audio. I have tried on Cox and OTA and prime time shows that say they are in 5.1 doesn't seem to work ever. KGUN works great. What's up with these two stations?

Does anyone know why KVOA & KOLD does not pass 5.1 audio. I have tried on Cox and OTA and prime time shows that say they are in 5.1 doesn't seem to work ever. KGUN works great. What's up with these two stations?

Just a quick follow up. The Operation Manager at KVOA says they have all the equipment in place for 5.1, but for some reason it isn't working. There are working to figure it out.

Just a guess, but KVOA's delay server is probably only capable of delaying 2 channels of audio instead of the 8 needed for NBC's audio. KPNX had the same problem and they ended up having to get a Dolby E encoder and a decoder. The encoder takes the 6 channels and encodes them into a high-bitrate data stream that fits in the 2 channels their delay server can handle, and the decoder decodes it back into 6 discrete channels. CBS distributes their audio using Dolby E, so KOLD has no excuse except not wanting to spend the money for equipment that can handle 5.1 audio.

Does anyone else get periodic dropouts of audio on KGUN? For instance, during the intro to Cavemen tonight, the audio dropped from about 15-30 seconds on my recording. I'm not sure if it's my recorder or KGUNDT. The stereo showed that it was getting a 5.1 signal from the MythTV during the silence.

Thanks,
Billy

Anyone receiving the new CNN HD and TBS HD channels from Cox? People in New Orleans, Rhode Island and Oklahoma markets are already receiving them.

Cox to add two new HD channels to its lineup (http://hd.broadcastnewsroom.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=190734).

Oh, that would be great to get TBS HD quickly with the baseball playoffs on HD. But I gave the sneaking suspicion that TBS HD will be in Tucson the day after the NLCS series ends on TBS. They're good like that.

Oh, that would be great to get TBS HD quickly with the baseball playoffs on HD. But I gave the sneaking suspicion that TBS HD will be in Tucson the day after the NLCS series ends on TBS. They're good like that.


from the phoenix thread:

Thank you for your recent e-mail to Cox Communications. We apologize
for the delay in our response.

We regret to inform you that Cox does not have plans to add TBS-HD to
our HD line up at this time.
During this exciting time, Diamondback play off games can be enjoyed by
all of our video subscribers on TBS/channel 16.

We are working on plans to add some new HD channels after the first of
the year, and are always looking for unique HD programming.

Thank you again for contacting us via e-mail. Please let us know if we
can be of further assistance.


Since cox tucson is like the armpit of cox phoenix, I'm going to guess the same holds true for us. GG cox, GG.

Yesterday, a friend(somewhat techno savvy and has a D* H20) calls and states that a local newscast(KOLD I believe) stated their signal would be going away if you received it over an antenna only. Well, he does receive the digital OTA signal and immediately panicked. After getting his heart started again, I explained what they actually meant.

The point to all this is that if someone with even less savvy hears this regularly AND the stations are unclear as to what really is going to happen(need for STB or cable/sat. hookup), there should be some very interesting letters-to-the-editor in the coming months.

Tony

I'm in zip 85750, and it appears that Comcast has rearranged the QAM channels in the last week or so. The good news is that the major networks (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX) now match their broadcast channel numbers, and they include program info. Here's what I'm currently receiving (omitting junk, duplicates and Spanish channels):

Chan Name Format
4-1 NBC (KVOA) 1080
9-1 ABC (KGUN) 720
11-1 Fox (KMSB) 720
13-1 CBS (KOLD) 1080
13-2 Weather 480
13-3 The Tube 480
87-1 MyTV (KTTU) 1080
87-2 PBS-DT (KUAT) 1080
98-9 PBS-DT1 480
115-5 CW (KWBA) 1080
119-1 Movieplex 480
121-1 PBS-DT2 Kids 480
121-2 PBS-DT4 Create 480
121-3 PBS-DT3 480
129-2 Mojo 1080

Since these are subject to change, perhaps it makes sense to reduce post #2 back to just the local channels.

I too am in 85750 and receive many HD channels over my Analog cable service (expanded basic with Internet). I noticed last night that KWBA (58 or 8 or the old WB channel) was gone. It used to be on 8-1 here on my QAM tuner. I went back to my TV setup and did a full channel scan. It found about 358 channels (the majority are blocked) and KWBA has moved to 98-1 here. Lots of stuff in the 80 and 90 range plus the locals 4-1, 11-1 and 13-1,2,3.

I guess we should just be resigned to the fact we need to do a setup scan every few months just to stay in sync with their channel-hopping moves. :)

Mick

I too am in 85750 and receive many HD channels over my Analog cable service (expanded basic with Internet). I noticed last night that KWBA (58 or 8 or the old WB channel) was gone. It used to be on 8-1 here on my QAM tuner. I went back to my TV setup and did a full channel scan. It found about 358 channels (the majority are blocked) and KWBA has moved to 98-1 here. Lots of stuff in the 80 and 90 range plus the locals 4-1, 11-1 and 13-1,2,3.

I guess we should just be resigned to the fact we need to do a setup scan every few months just to stay in sync with their channel-hopping moves. :)

Mick


This gets bad when it happens and your wife's Prison Break doesn't record. Trust me on this. I switched all my recorders to the antenna due to Cox moving channels around on me.

Does anyone know if they've quit broadcasting WB? I know it's broadcasted from somewhere outside of Tucson, but I've never had a problem with the signal, but suddenly it's gone. I only watched the DBacks periodically, so not a big deal, just curious.

Related to QAM channels, I've just posted my most recent findings on the MythTV wiki: Tucson COX DTV QAM Channels (http://www.mythtv.org/wiki/index.php/Working_QAM_cable_layout#Tucson.2C_AZ_85705_-_Cox). I've included both SD & HD. So maybe that'll be come help to anyone trying to map their recent changes.

Does anyone know if they've quit broadcasting WB? I know it's broadcasted from somewhere outside of Tucson, but I've never had a problem with the signal, but suddenly it's gone. I only watched the DBacks periodically, so not a big deal, just curious.

It is still out there but is now CW. Same call letters. If D'Backs are all you watched, you won't need it anymore. FSN AZ now has exclusive broadcast rights. It is a shame that there will no longer be local baseball available OTA.

Related to QAM channels, I've just posted my most recent findings on the MythTV wiki: Tucson COX DTV QAM Channels (http://www.mythtv.org/wiki/index.php/Working_QAM_cable_layout#Tucson.2C_AZ_85705_-_Cox). I've included both SD & HD. So maybe that'll be come help to anyone trying to map their recent changes.Great. Finally an update on COX channels. I've updated the second posting. Thanks!

It is still out there but is now CW. Same call letters. If D'Backs are all you watched, you won't need it anymore. FSN AZ now has exclusive broadcast rights. It is a shame that there will no longer be local baseball available OTA.

You're right... it is CW. I remember it changing recently. Not sure why I don't pick it up anymore. Anyone else experiencing the same thing?

Great. Finally an update on COX channels. I've updated the second posting. Thanks!

You'll need to update that again. I was matching the frequencies an mismatched 573MHz with 537MHz, so what I have listed on QAM channel 82 is actually 76. (oops) So CW/FOX/KUAT3 should be 76-x, not 82-x.

You'll need to update that again. I was matching the frequencies an mismatched 573MHz with 537MHz, so what I have listed on QAM channel 82 is actually 76. (oops) So CW/FOX/KUAT3 should be 76-x, not 82-x.Done. :)

Related to QAM channels, I've just posted my most recent findings on the MythTV wiki: Tucson COX DTV QAM Channels (http://www.mythtv.org/wiki/index.php/Working_QAM_cable_layout#Tucson.2C_AZ_85705_-_Cox). I've included both SD & HD. So maybe that'll be come help to anyone trying to map their recent changes.

Thanks for the detailed update. They did a rearrange just before the fall season, and for some reason, my HDHR was picking up KUASDT on half of the channels so I just gave up and switched to OTA. I'm not sure how long you've been using Cox QAM, but they seem to do this rearrange thing fairly often. I believe I've updated my mappings 3 times since getting HD tuners around xmas '06. Unfortunately, I seem to find out after it records the wrong channel.

I'd really like to stick it to them and cancel Cox and just use OTA, but they have me hooked with ESPNHD.

As a note, if you want accurate recordings on 706, zap2it has the wrong info. It's actually 27.1 KUASDT, but zap2it has the guide data for 6.1 KUATDT.

I've posted this in the SD forums but it's still not fixed. Oops, looks like I sorta dropped the ball in following up on my report to SD. http://forums.schedulesdirect.org/viewtopic.php?f=6&t=116

Thanks again for the detailed listing. I might switch one of my tuners back to QAM as my antenna doesn't get kwba well so I've been using SD for that.

Reply to an email I sent....


We are happy to announce that Cox Arizona will offer TBS HD in Phoenix (on channel 716) and Tucson (on channel 730) for games 1-6 of the National League Championship Series playoffs. The full stream of TBS HD programming will be shown during this time. The full stream will be shut down on these channels as of 10/19 at 11:59pm.

If the Diamondbacks go to game 7, customers will be able to view the game ONLY in HD on MOJO - channel 721 in both Phoenix and Tucson.

Funny...I've had TBS-HD for a while now. The new HD lineup on DirecTV is fantastic.

Funny on how they can get it going for the game, which is great, and then shut it down. If Directv offered locals in HD I would change in a heart beat. Cox is very disappointing as this point. Other markets are seeing HD channels expand, while Tucson has nothing. Cable could indeed feel the force of the new HD offerings that they can't bring to their customers.

KOLD Issues...again....

First...thanks for an HD-free Thursday night.

I continue to have issues with dropped audio/pixelation for a second several times per show. Anybody else having the same issues?

KOLD was bad the other night. I had recorded a show and loss of picture and dropped audio. I get dropped audio all the time on KGUN.

I have left comments on KOLD's website about the terrible picture and they go unanswered, perhaps if we all left comments about the station at the parent company maybe they will fix some of these issues. KOLD is owned by Raycom Media, their address is www.raycommedia.com.

KOLD Issues...again....

First...thanks for an HD-free Thursday night.

I continue to have issues with dropped audio/pixelation for a second several times per show. Anybody else having the same issues?

KOLD has been completely down for me the past couple of days (via OTA). Anyone else have trouble with OTA reception? I've sent a couple of emails, but no reply.

What type of tuner are you using. Remember about 9 months ago, there was an issue with their PSIP data. I'm having no problems recieving their signal, but the two tuners I had issues with last year have been replaced.

Have both a Vbox Cat's Eye and Avermedia A180. They're both a year or so old, but neither picks up the signal. I was hoping it was similar to the PSIP issue they had... no one could get their signal OTA then. Sounds like something on my end if others can pick it up.

Does anyone else get periodic dropouts of audio on KGUN? For instance, during the intro to Cavemen tonight, the audio dropped from about 15-30 seconds on my recording. I'm not sure if it's my recorder or KGUNDT. The stereo showed that it was getting a 5.1 signal from the MythTV during the silence.

Thanks,
Billy
That's why I'm here. Haven't looked in on this thread for quite a while. I've been seeing serious audio dropouts on ABC. I'm using an HR10 DirecTivo -- I haven't watched live with the TV tuner for long enough to see if it makes a difference, but I haven't seen this problem since the 6.3a software update.

Also seems that KOLD is having difficulty again. (Lots of SD when it should be HD) It's almost as if I've somehow travelled back in time a year.

Same issue with KGUN last night. Two major audio drops during Boston Legal.

KGUN was off the air this morning. Or at least it was for me. Anyone else having issues with an HD Signal from them?

Yep...same here. Happened this morning. Must have been due to the high winds.

I'm new to the Tucson area(Marana) I have Comcast right now.I would like to get east and west coast feeds on the networks. I'm willing to go to a dish system if needed.I was wondering if anyone has done that in this area and got the feeds? Thanx....Scott

Ugh, KMSB drops the ball again with the start of World Series not in HD!

You can only receive West Coast feeds of ABC, CBS and NBC with waivers from the local broadcasters thru DirectTV. Go DirecTV website and follow the links for local HD and input your zip code and/or address. Good Luck

I'm new to the Tucson area(Marana) I have Comcast right now.I would like to get east and west coast feeds on the networks. I'm willing to go to a dish system if needed.I was wondering if anyone has done that in this area and got the feeds? Thanx....ScottYou won't get waivers to get the service from D* so don't waste your time. Your best bet is to find a broker and get Canadian satellite service such as StarChoice. You can get ABC/CBS/NBC/Fox/PBS out of Detroit and Seattle and CW out of Chicago.

You won't get waivers to get the service from D* so don't waste your time. Your best bet is to find a broker and get Canadian satellite service such as StarChoice. You can get ABC/CBS/NBC/Fox/PBS out of Detroit and Seattle and CW out of Chicago.


I have waivers from all 4 tucson networks and get both east and west coast feeds, although only west in HD.. I called D* and asked them to apply and 6 weeks later got a post card saying they were approved.. does not cost anything to ask..

I have waivers from all 4 tucson networks and get both east and west coast feeds, although only west in HD.. I called D* and asked them to apply and 6 weeks later got a post card saying they were approved.. does not cost anything to ask..When did you get yours? I don't believe any more are being granted and those who already had them were grandfathered in.

I have been getting KOLD 13-1 OTA for the last couple weeks when I set up my indoor antenna, now I get no signal. Anyone know what is going on with the signal?

When did you get yours? I don't believe any more are being granted and those who already had them were grandfathered in.

I can't remember, but it has been a long time, a couple of years perhaps.. It is the only reason I have stayed with D*

I have been getting KOLD 13-1 OTA for the last couple weeks when I set up my indoor antenna, now I get no signal. Anyone know what is going on with the signal?

KOLD is the worst for me. I can max out on signal from all the other locals and KOLD is hard to ever get at 50%, which lucky for me works.

Does anyone know where their antenna is located and if they are broadcasting at a power level close to the others? By far my best signal comes from KGUN, KWBA.

I have been getting KOLD 13-1 OTA for the last couple weeks when I set up my indoor antenna, now I get no signal. Anyone know what is going on with the signal?

KOLD was out for a couple of weeks with antenna, but seems to be working for me. Right now it's 58 that's not coming in at all.

I can't remember, but it has been a long time, a couple of years perhaps.. It is the only reason I have stayed with D*


Thanks for the help. I used have the feeds for both coasts. Watching the news in LA with their HD helicopter chases were better then any TV cop show

I searched, but couldn't find info on my problem w/ a QAM channel...

Is anyone having problems in Tucson w/ audio on the QAM KMSB (76-2)? Mine is beyond choppy. Thanks.



Drew

OK Everyone... I need your help. I live up in SaddleBrooke (just north of Catalina) and have Dish Sat. Of course they don't provide Tucson locals in HD. With rabbit ears I can receive only 1 OTA station (KOLD-13).

Does anyone know if I will be able to recieve locals in HD from this location if I hang out a decent external anntenna? I don't want to go to the trouble and cost if it is a waste of time.

Thanks.

OK Everyone... I need your help. I live up in SaddleBrooke (just north of Catalina) and have Dish Sat. Of course they don't provide Tucson locals in HD. With rabbit ears I can receive only 1 OTA station (KOLD-13).

Does anyone know if I will be able to recieve locals in HD from this location if I hang out a decent external anntenna? I don't want to go to the trouble and cost if it is a waste of time.

Thanks.
Highly unlikely, too many mountains. Get DirecTV, then you can receive the Phoenix HD locals. I also live in SaddleBrooke.

I just got an HD TV with a QAM tuner. Here is the HD list I have on Comcast Standard Cable Lineup (in Marana 85653 ZIP). It seems to be a little different than some others.

4-1 KVOA (NBC) 1080i
9-1 KGUN (ABC) 720p
11-1 KMSB (FOX) 720p
13-1 KOLD (CBS) 1080i
87-1 KTTU (MyTV) 1080i
87-2 KUAT (PBS) 1080i
117-3 KWBA (CW) 1080i
129-1 MOJOHD 1080i

I get a lot of other digital channels (like all the music channels), but none are HD. Am I missing any HD channels?

Is anyone having lip sync issues with KVOA? I recorded The Office, Friday Night Lights and watched SNL last night and it looks like it is off to me. Commercials seem to be in sync and all the other stations are fine.

Yeah, I definitely noticed lip sync issues with SNL. My receiver allows me to delay the audio to compensate for sync issues caused by video processing, but in this case, it was the audio that was delayed, so I just had to suffer.

Hi: Am I the only person in this city who has had trouble with a DVHS machine trying to tape KGUN9-DT off air? My older JVC 30K has no trouble but the newer 40K is blanked out on the picture. Sound is OK. After multiple UPS trips to JVC svc ctr in CA, the machine sits like a boat anchor after several "updates." I am using a 169time setup on a hughes E86. KGUN has tried but failed to investigate what flag they have set wrong. They have bigger fish to fry, I guess, like sending Jennifer to the cruise parks with hidden cameras to help cops entrap innocent private citizens. Give her all the engineering support she needs but ignore those of us at the cutting edge who can't get a picture on our state of the art HDTVs. But I digress.
I have not tried since about three weeks ago; it was the same as the last three years. Who else has this trouble? Let's turn the heat up on KGUN management. ALL problems are MANAGEMENT errors.
--Tom west of silverbell

Hello all. I am helping my parents move to Tucson (zip 85743 which is near Marana). I have been reading through these posts and searching the web in order to help my parents decide on how to setup television service for the home theater they are transplanting from PA. They are primarily interested in network TV in HD.

As I understand it, the situation in Tucson, at my parent’s location is:

1. Dish Network – no local stations in HD
2. DirecTV – no local stations in HD
3. Cox – locals available in HD via QAM tuner
4. Comcast – locals available in HD via QAM tuner

Do I have this correct?

I have already tried to tune OTA stations at their place (using Samsung DTB-H260F), but only received 2 Spanish channels. While this was done using a small indoor antenna, it doesn’t sound like a bigger antenna will help much at this location.

So my questions are:

1. Can someone confirm that local HD OTA (with bigger antenna) will not work?
2. With Cox/Comcast, what is the lowest cost service that will provide the ability to tune local channels in HD via QAM tuner?
3. With a front projector (no built-in tuner), is the Samsung DTB-260F a good choice to tune local channels in HD from Comcast/Cox? Is there a better option?

Sorry for the long length. and thanks in advance for any help or suggestions you can provide!

At that zip, currently the only choice for local HD networks is Comcast with their basic digital package. DirectTV will come on line with local HD, hopefully no later than fall 2008. The other alternative is to apply for waivers thru DirecTV for their Distant Network (DNS) Package, which would be ABC, NBC and CBS L.A. (which I have had for several years). BTW, for what ever reason, the local FOX broadcaster denied the waiver request. Happy HD!

1. Can someone confirm that local HD OTA (with bigger antenna) will not work?
2. With Cox/Comcast, what is the lowest cost service that will provide the ability to tune local channels in HD via QAM tuner?
3. With a front projector (no built-in tuner), is the Samsung DTB-260F a good choice to tune local channels in HD from Comcast/Cox? Is there a better option?


1. There is a large mountain between you and the antenna's for the major stations. Nothing you can do about that. There's been rumors of people putting up monster antenna's in the northwest and getting reception, but for the price of basic cable I don't think there is justification for the headaches.

2. Cox & Comcast do not overlap in Tucson. It's one or the other depending on where you live. In your case that is Comcast. The local HD's are delivered in the clear on Comcast & Cox QAM so their cheapest cable package (~$15) will allow you to tune these channels. I think this is an FCC reg.

3. No knowledge of that STB.