Anyone on here got any idea when DirectTv will start broadcast of the Wichita Locals in HD? I can't use an OTA since the crap box doesn't have one enabled! Any help would be appreciated.

I've been trying to trudge through this thread, but the length is already quote overwhelming. I'm an HD "noob" with a few quick questions.

Just for the info, I have a Sony CRT 970.

At the moment I have Cox cable. For now I'm getting HD signals from the feed from Cox. I have no idea how or why this works, but suffice to say, I was just happy it did and I could get HD channels. The problem is I don't watch any of the other BS offered with my Cox cable and I have just the basic digital package. Most of the time if the mrs. and I want to watch a show, it's on normal over the air channels.

So, I'm thinking about just dumping the Cox and going with an antenna to watch the HD channels and such. I've seen the stuff at Wal-Mart (your typical Phillips BS antenna), but I'm not sure how good it will perform. While I want quality, I'm looking for something under the $50. I don't want to spend a lot, but I want something good enough that I can get decent reception.

As others have suggested, I've gone to antenna web and found out all that fun information about the channels and such.

yellow - uhf KSAS-DT 24.1 FOX WICHITA KS 321° 16.8 26
yellow - uhf KAKE-DT 10.1 ABC WICHITA KS 320° 17.3 21
yellow - uhf KSCW-DT 33.1 CW WICHITA KS 321° 18.6 31
yellow - uhf KSNW-DT 3.1 NBC WICHITA KS 320° 16.7 45
red - vhf KWCH 12 CBS HUTCHINSON KS 320° 40.8 12
red - uhf KWCH-DT 12.1 CBS HUTCHINSON KS 320° 40.8 19
red - uhf KSMI-LP 51 AZA WICHITA KS 353° 7.7 51
red - vhf KSNW 3 NBC WICHITA KS 320° 17.0 3
red - uhf KSCW 33 CW WICHITA KS 320° 18.8 33
red - uhf KMTW 36 MNT HUTCHINSON KS 329° 27.9 36
red - uhf KTQW-CA 49 IND WICHITA KS 354° 7.7 49
red - uhf KSAS 24 FOX WICHITA KS 321° 16.8 24
red - uhf K59DA 59 TBN WICHITA KS 2° 8.5 59
red - vhf KAKE 10 ABC WICHITA KS 320° 17.3 10
blue - uhf KFVT-LP 40 IND WICHITA KS 358° 10.6 40
blue - uhf KMTW-DT 36.1 MNT HUTCHINSON KS 334° 26.8 35
blue - vhf KPTS 8 PBS HUTCHINSON KS 319° 40.9 8
violet - uhf KPTS-DT 8.1 PBS HUTCHINSON KS 319° 40.9 29

Basically I want the normal 4 channels plus the CW and anything else is a bonus. Mind you I'm renting a house so I don't really want to tear up my yard or attic with a huge antenna. Thanks for any help in advance and if you need me to clarify anything, just let me know.

I've been trying to trudge through this thread, but the length is already quote overwhelming. I'm an HD "noob" with a few quick questions.

Just for the info, I have a Sony CRT 970.

At the moment I have Cox cable. For now I'm getting HD signals from the feed from Cox. I have no idea how or why this works, but suffice to say, I was just happy it did and I could get HD channels. The problem is I don't watch any of the other BS offered with my Cox cable and I have just the basic digital package. Most of the time if the mrs. and I want to watch a show, it's on normal over the air channels.

So, I'm thinking about just dumping the Cox and going with an antenna to watch the HD channels and such. I've seen the stuff at Wal-Mart (your typical Phillips BS antenna), but I'm not sure how good it will perform. While I want quality, I'm looking for something under the $50. I don't want to spend a lot, but I want something good enough that I can get decent reception.

As others have suggested, I've gone to antenna web and found out all that fun information about the channels and such.

yellow - uhf KSAS-DT 24.1 FOX WICHITA KS 321° 16.8 26
yellow - uhf KAKE-DT 10.1 ABC WICHITA KS 320° 17.3 21
yellow - uhf KSCW-DT 33.1 CW WICHITA KS 321° 18.6 31
yellow - uhf KSNW-DT 3.1 NBC WICHITA KS 320° 16.7 45
red - vhf KWCH 12 CBS HUTCHINSON KS 320° 40.8 12
red - uhf KWCH-DT 12.1 CBS HUTCHINSON KS 320° 40.8 19
red - uhf KSMI-LP 51 AZA WICHITA KS 353° 7.7 51
red - vhf KSNW 3 NBC WICHITA KS 320° 17.0 3
red - uhf KSCW 33 CW WICHITA KS 320° 18.8 33
red - uhf KMTW 36 MNT HUTCHINSON KS 329° 27.9 36
red - uhf KTQW-CA 49 IND WICHITA KS 354° 7.7 49
red - uhf KSAS 24 FOX WICHITA KS 321° 16.8 24
red - uhf K59DA 59 TBN WICHITA KS 2° 8.5 59
red - vhf KAKE 10 ABC WICHITA KS 320° 17.3 10
blue - uhf KFVT-LP 40 IND WICHITA KS 358° 10.6 40
blue - uhf KMTW-DT 36.1 MNT HUTCHINSON KS 334° 26.8 35
blue - vhf KPTS 8 PBS HUTCHINSON KS 319° 40.9 8
violet - uhf KPTS-DT 8.1 PBS HUTCHINSON KS 319° 40.9 29

Basically I want the normal 4 channels plus the CW and anything else is a bonus. Mind you I'm renting a house so I don't really want to tear up my yard or attic with a huge antenna. Thanks for any help in advance and if you need me to clarify anything, just let me know.
What part of town do you live in? I live in East Wichita and purchased an 8 bay bow tie antenna from Don's TV. It was forty bucks, and it's mounted in my attic. I get ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, MYTV, and CW OTA ATSC signals perfectly using my DirecTV tuner. Oh and FYI, CW is broadcasting a digital signal, but not an HD signal... Another thing an "HD " antenna is nothing more than a UHF antenna. Don't fall into the marketing trap of buying an "HD" antenna for some outrageous price.

Anyone here using a HTPC to capture their OTA ATSC signals? I recently built one and am using a Vbox DTA-150 ATSC tuner. The problem I'm having is even though the tuner is showing all channels at 100% signal, I am not able to tune into MYTV. I simply get the message that the signal is not available. I've double checked the XML file to make sure the channel was mapped correctly. Just wondering if anyone on the East side of town was using this tuner and was having this issue?

What part of town do you live in? I live in East Wichita and purchased an 8 bay bow tie antenna from Don's TV. It was forty bucks, and it's mounted in my attic. I get ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, MYTV, and CW OTA ATSC signals perfectly using my DirecTV tuner. Oh and FYI, CW is broadcasting a digital signal, but not an HD signal... Another thing an "HD " antenna is nothing more than a UHF antenna. Don't fall into the marketing trap of buying an "HD" antenna for some outrageous price.

I live down south around 47th and Broadway. I'll have to go check that attena out. That seems like a fair price for something like that. Thanks!

P.S. If you have any other tips, I'm all ears. :D

I live around Harry and Greenwich...

this is what antenna web told me....


* yellow - uhf KSAS-DT 24.1 FOX WICHITA KS 291° 18.3 26
* yellow - uhf KSNW-DT 3.1 NBC WICHITA KS 290° 18.4 45
* yellow - uhf KAKE-DT 10.1 ABC WICHITA KS 291° 18.8 21
* yellow - uhf KSCW-DT 33.1 CW WICHITA KS 294° 19.7 31
* blue - uhf KWCH-DT 12.1 CBS HUTCHINSON KS 307° 40.9 19
* violet - uhf KPTS-DT 8.1 PBS HUTCHINSON KS 306° 41.2 29
Note:


I don't care too much about the PBS, but I want to get all the rest. Since all are within 20 degrees of each other, I shouldn't need a multi-directional, right?

Anyone have a suggestion on what antenna and where to buy it? How much am I looking at in cost?

Thanks,

You can e-mail me at Tomandlynzee at gmail
Tom

I'm at Central and Ridge. Antenna Web gives me a yellow for everything but PBS...which is blue. Using just an indoor pair of rabbit ears, I can pull in OTA DTV for everything except PBS. That's without major fiddling or anything else.

Im here at Kellogg & Maize. Like Lakaw im using a P4r HT pc to watch over the air hdtv. I am using Windows Media Center 2005 to watch and record. Works great except for 3 & 12 is always choppy. But MCE is telling me I have good signal strength on those 2 channels. I was wondering if you had any advice?

Im here at Kellogg & Maize. Like Lakaw im using a P4r HT pc to watch over the air hdtv. I am using Windows Media Center 2005 to watch and record. Works great except for 3 & 12 is always choppy. But MCE is telling me I have good signal strength on those 2 channels. I was wondering if you had any advice?

Probably interference and/or reflections. What type of antenna are you using? Directional antennas help reduce reflections.

Im here at Kellogg & Maize. Like Lakaw im using a P4r HT pc to watch over the air hdtv. I am using Windows Media Center 2005 to watch and record. Works great except for 3 & 12 is always choppy. But MCE is telling me I have good signal strength on those 2 channels. I was wondering if you had any advice?
What are the specs of your system? Are you using Purevideo?

I only have a stuttering issue with football on NBC. Regular shows look fine on NBC, and football on Fox and CBS are also fine.

Chiefs game on NBC HD

Anyone else noticing a ton of problems with NBCs HD feed tonight? To be specific, it seems like almost every time the camera is scanning the action on the field, it pixelizes, or gets jaggedy and skippy... Perhaps it's my Cox box??? I switched to the TV in my bedroom (also HD, but no Cox box, and I'm not seeing the issues so far (about 15 minutes).

VOD in Wichita, starts Tuesday....very soft launch, not to all customers......full launch about the 1st of Jan.

VOD in Wichita, starts Tuesday....very soft launch, not to all customers......full launch about the 1st of Jan.

Great news. Where/What should we look for on Tuesday to see if we have it?

Great news. Where/What should we look for on Tuesday to see if we have it?

It's on channel 1. or just press your "OnDemand" button on the remote.

I wonder if Newton is considered part of this "soft launch?" I will call them. I pay them enough money that I should be able to demand to be a part of this "soft launch."

I wonder if Newton is considered part of this "soft launch?" I will call them. I pay them enough money that I should be able to demand to be a part of this "soft launch."


Wichita Only....Rest of Kansas Service area will happen next year.

Go to Ch. 1 and hit the "select" button on remote, it should then bring a cox box up saying it's loading. If it doesn't, your box hasn't been activated, but it will in short time (less than a week). Only so many boxes a night.

Calling won't do any good, as CSR's have no control of who and what towns get the soft launch. This is just a roll-out and full service will begin when all boxes are enabled for VOD.

Wichita Only....Rest of Kansas Service area will happen next year.

Go to Ch. 1 and hit the "select" button on remote, it should then bring a cox box up saying it's loading. If it doesn't, your box hasn't been activated, but it will in short time (less than a week). Only so many boxes a night.

Calling won't do any good, as CSR's have no control of who and what towns get the soft launch. This is just a roll-out and full service will begin when all boxes are enabled for VOD.

I'm in Newton -- which is generally considered part of the Wichita metro. I won't argue whether some CSRs don't have a clue, but here's what mine told me when I called earlier this evening...

Didn't get a name, but the CSR I spoke with said he did something to my account so an update will go through at 2am Tuesday morning (tonight, overnight). He said when I wake up my box will have been reset and will have the update.

Granted, he could have been feeding me a line a bull, I guess I'll just have to check when I wake up tomorrow.

Either way, I'm just glad to see we're all getting closer to getting OnDemand.

Didn't get a name, but the CSR I spoke with said he did something to my account so an update will go through at 2am Tuesday morning (tonight, overnight).

Sorry, he was wrong. Newton is not in the Wichita service area (Wichita, Derby, Andover, Valley Center, Park City, Goddard, Cheney, Garden Plan, and Rose Hill).

Newton is considered outside of the Wichita area. A date for Beta testing for outside of Wichita hasn't been set.

But yes, VOD is really close to being a reality and what I saw at the Circuit City display, it rocks.

Sorry, he was wrong. Newton is not in the Wichita service area (Wichita, Derby, Andover, Valley Center, Park City, Goddard, Cheney, Garden Plan, and Rose Hill).

Well that sucks.

So, did anyone get OnDemand overnight? Just curious about first thoughts...

OnDemand up and running in NE Wichita. Watched a few programs on HBO, Starzz, and in the Freezone (basic cable programming). No problems to report here. Once the programming starts, you are able to FF, REW, and pause. Lots of content (especially on Starzz). Cinemax is blocked because I don't subscribe to it. Movies On Demand, Adult on Demand, Anime, HowardTV, and WWE available for subscription.

Overall looks like a good addition. I foresee using this service alot. Only downside, no HD.

Overall looks like a good addition. I foresee using this service alot. Only downside, no HD.


HD won't be added soon either. Just takes alot of space on servers, look at how much it takes up on TiVo or a DVR. And then bandwidth to give you HD also is alot. Not sure of any Cable provider doing HD VOD.

Not sure of any Cable provider doing HD VOD.

I was visiting some relatives in Nashville a few weeks ago and Comcast and just recently added HD VOD. Pretty good selection.

VOD in Wichita, starts Tuesday....very soft launch, not to all customers......full launch about the 1st of Jan.

Hey KScableguy, when you said full launch about the 1st of January, did you mean just for the Wichita market -- or everywhere? Just trying to get a gauge on when I can experience VOD in Newton.

Thanks.

Our OnDemand service was activated Tuesday overnight. It is functional, albeit a little bit slow. Compared to the VOD at hotels, it's just a bit slower as far as turning pages and working with the GUI goes, but there may be more info that is loading as well. My only complaint is that the prices are not readily or obviously posted. Lots better selection and variety than their InDemand service, which over the past year was horrible in terms of numbers of selections and having "appropriate" things for family viewing.

Hey KScableguy, when you said full launch about the 1st of January, did you mean just for the Wichita market -- or everywhere? Just trying to get a gauge on when I can experience VOD in Newton.

Thanks.


Full launch for just the wichita market (check above for cities). Rest of KS will be later this year, but not too far behind.

Our OnDemand service was activated Tuesday overnight. It is functional, albeit a little bit slow. Compared to the VOD at hotels, it's just a bit slower as far as turning pages and working with the GUI goes, but there may be more info that is loading as well. My only complaint is that the prices are not readily or obviously posted. Lots better selection and variety than their InDemand service, which over the past year was horrible in terms of numbers of selections and having "appropriate" things for family viewing.

If you have a DCT2000 (big black digital box), it is the slowest in terms of surfing the interface. If you have a DCT2500 (small black digital box), its the fastest of all the boxes. DVR's are fast also, but sometimes lag a lil.

Prices should be viewable when clicking on the program. Movies would be the only thing you would need to know the price.

MERRY CHRISTMAS 2006!

Hello to anyone who actually takes the time to check out the board on Christmas day. I guess this is technically off-topic, but I will be WATCHING HD TV today, so maybe that'll count for something?!

Hope everyone has a High-Definition Christmas ;-)

Any other Wichita discussion boards?

I know this board is supposed to be just for "local HDTV info and reception," so I'm wondering if there are other HDTV boards some of you frequent? Specifically, boards that relate to Wichita area High Definition.

For example, sometimes discussions here are in the High Definition realm, but not specifically related to "local HDTV info and reception."

I know there are a lot of boards out there, but I wonder if there are others that target the Wichita metro area.

*** Just to be clear, I love this discussion board. I'm not trying to leave this board or get others to leave it either. I'm just trying to find out of there are other boards in the Wichita metro area for those once-in-awhile posts that really don't belong on this board.

Anybody notice a degrade in signal from cox in the analog channels lately? I'm wondering if
its related to this On-demand stuff. I noticed it for the 1st time on Fri, the 22nd, when
watching the KSU basketball game on FSN (ch 34). The fast action stuff was very grainy,
and not focused too well. It gets better when the action stops. It's mostly noticable for
sports action stuff, and appears on all analog channels. I'm going to fiddle around with my
amplifier to see if it maybe it's crapping out, but if anybody else is noticing this, I wont dink
with it. I'm also seeing faint horizontal stripes across a lot of the channels, which I never
noticed in the past.

I'm also seeing faint horizontal stripes across a lot of the channels, which I never
noticed in the past.

Do these horizontal lines scroll from bottom to top? If so, they are hum bars and means there is an electrical backfeed onto the cable system in your house. House (mini) amp could and usually causes this problem. Also new stuff added to the house can cause this (new fridge, stove, exercise equipment , or anything else that uses electricity).

Do these horizontal lines scroll from bottom to top?

Yes they do. It's mainly only noticable on the lower channels (2-6). Do you suspect my
amp is going bad? I'll try bypassing it and see what happens. Thanks for the help.

Hello all,

I am new to this forum and was reading about the issue with the lower channels. I am familiar of this problem you are seeing. It's downtown, way out East and way out NW Wichita. This came about after Cox has made some upgrades to their system dealing with the analog channels. I am not a Cox employee but my employment is broadcast related. I am in communication with upper level tech support at Cox. I will pass along more info when I know more.

Yes they do. It's mainly only noticable on the lower channels (2-6). Do you suspect my
amp is going bad? I'll try bypassing it and see what happens. Thanks for the help.


bypass the amp and if the lines go away, there is your problem. Is your amp store bought or installed by Cox? Are you sure you need it? Alot of people believe they need an amp and they don't, and most times it's a drop issue to the house that is causing the problem.

I've noticed lately that the analog channels sometimes look kind of "jumpy". It almost looks like the field order is reversed, or something...

Does anyone have any idea if we we will be getting a replacement channell for INHD. I have been doing. I hope it isnt ESPN2, I would rather have National Geographic HD chanell.

Does anyone have any idea if we we will be getting a replacement channell for INHD. I have been doing. I hope it isnt ESPN2, I would rather have National Geographic HD chanell.
Hehe, I'm just the opposite. I would rather have ESPN2 HD, Food Network HD, TNT HD, HDNet, NFL Network HD, then National Geographic HD. Those are the top 6 channels on my wish list, in that order.

bypass the amp and if the lines go away, there is your problem. Is your amp store bought or installed by Cox? Are you sure you need it? Alot of people believe they need an amp and they don't, and most times it's a drop issue to the house that is causing the problem

Bypassing did not help. The problem is in the drop to the house (cox). It's not the TV
either, it occurs on more than 1 TV. My amp is a high-quality Electroline brand
4-way. I installed it myself, inside the cox box on the outside of my house. Yes,
I do need it, before I installed it, I was getting a fair amount of snow on the upper chans,
(62-72). The amp cleaned the snow right up. Up until the 22nd, I was getting a very
good analog signal to all TV's, now I'm noticing some other quirks, like some of the
tan colors are fading to a reddish color in and out, and I'm seeing some vertical bars
as well, on certain channels. Maybe it will clean up in a few days. I had some
worse signal problems last summer for a few days, and apparently, cox fixed something,
and the picture cleaned up by itself. Before I got my amp, and had the snow, I had a
cox tech come out to check my signal, and he basically flipped through a few channels
and said I had a better signal than most, and they did not like to install amps. He used
no instruments or anything to make that diagnosis. So I thought, fine, I'll buy and install
my own amp. He also said they were going to all digital soon (this was last April), and it
would clean up my snow (yeah, right!).

Does anyone have any idea if we we will be getting a replacement channell for INHD. I have been doing. I hope it isnt ESPN2, I would rather have National Geographic HD chanell.
Looks like INHD 2 is being replaced with ESPN2 HD! Check out channel 619.

Looks like INHD 2 is being replaced with ESPN2 HD! Check out channel 619.

YES! With college basketball season heating up, I hope to see a lot of college basketball in HD on ESPN2 HD. Bring it!

In my opinion, sports is just about the only reason to own an HDTV. Sure, I marveled at Discovery HD Theatre when my HDTV was brand spankin' new. But it didn't take too long to realize that sports is where it's at when it comes to HD programming.

So the more sports Cox can put on the HD tier the better as far as I'm concerned.

On another note... Hey KScableguy, any new info on when I might be able to get OnDemand service outside of the Wichita market?

It looks like Cox has started the digital simulcast for some of the channels. :D
There's been a couple of "hiccups", but overall I'm liking it.

It looks like Cox has started the digital simulcast for some of the channels. :D
There's been a couple of "hiccups", but overall I'm liking it.

It's probably just too obvious for me to get, but can you explain what you're talking about? What do you mean that Cox is doing "digital simulcast for some of the channels?"

It looks like Cox has started the digital simulcast for some of the channels. :D
There's been a couple of "hiccups", but overall I'm liking it.


If you have a digital/HD/DVR box, then some of the channels from channel 2 to 74 are in digital format. Simulcast, because you don't need a box to receive the channels. I don't have the list in front of me of what channels are now offered, but will post them soon. Looks like Cox is adding about 10 channels every week or two to the line-up of simulcast channels.

No update on VOD in outer markets. Wish it would come soon, as I could take park in the fun of VOD. I'll try to find something out for you all.

If you have a digital/HD/DVR box, then some of the channels from channel 2 to 74 are in digital format. Simulcast, because you don't need a box to receive the channels.

Are you saying you can receive these channels without a set-top box (if your TV has a QAM
tuner built-in)? If so, are they encrypted?

Are you saying you can receive these channels without a set-top box (if your TV has a QAM
tuner built-in)? If so, are they encrypted?

Encrypted...Do you really think Cox is going to give channels away for free? And yes, if you have a cable card, they would be digital.

Encrypted...Do you really think Cox is going to give channels away for free? And yes, if you have a cable card, they would be digital.

So basically what you are saying is, if you already pay for the analog channels, then you
have to pay more for the digital versions of the same channels. What happens to the tiers
and pricing when cox is finally all-digital? A lot of people have digital and analog TV's
connected to cox. Will they pay double to have 2 formats of the same channels? Or will
they pay an extra monthly fee for each set top box/remote for each analog TV? Sounds
like this could get expensive.

I am looking into buying an antenna to get OTA channels via DirectTV....

I live off Harry and Greenwich.... anyone have any suggestions?

I found a couple of antennas at Circuit City.... how much should I be looking to spend? Most of the stations are within 25 miles and the other 2 are within 40...

I found a couple of indoor antennas, but i'm not sure how well they might work...

EDIT: see next post.

Phillips PHDTV1 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Philips-Indoor-HDTV-Antenna-PHDTV1/sem/rpsm/oid/158311/catOid/-15607/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do)

Or

Phillips MANT510 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Philips-Indoor-Antenna-MANT510/sem/rpsm/oid/158312/catOid/-15607/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do)

Any advice would be appreciated!

So basically what you are saying is, if you already pay for the analog channels, then you have to pay more for the digital versions of the same channels. What happens to the tiers and pricing when cox is finally all-digital? A lot of people have digital and analog TV's connected to cox. Will they pay double to have 2 formats of the same channels? Or will they pay an extra monthly fee for each set top box/remote for each analog TV? Sounds like this could get expensive.

Interesting questions indeed.

TVs in my home:

Main TV: HDTV with Cox HD DVR.
Bedroom TV: HDTV with Standard Cable & QAM for digital/HD channels.
Toy Room for kids: Standard Cable / Analog TV.

I've pretty much lived in the crt projector world and only watched DVD's on it. We didn't watch much TV so I never really got into the world of HD programming.

I need a quick initiation.

I bought an LG superslim 30FS4D yesterday. Tried to hook it up directly to the incoming line last night because I hate being a slave to that stinking Cable box. We have the digital service right now, but from the discussions here, I took it that I could receive at least the local channels (ABC, NBC, FOX, etc.) with hooking up the line directly to the tv.

My TV should tune digital cable, regular cable and HD (the TV has QAM turner). If I hook it up directly to the incoming cable line and run it through a channel scan it only finds 72 regular cable channels, no digital channels.

In order to get all my channels, I had to go a head and run it through the cable box, leaving my TV stuck on channel 4 (WOO HOO) I hate not being able to take advantage of the tuner on my tv and have to use that darned Cox box and remote.

Nevermind that post. Found 'em. WOW. Hubby and son are thrilled. They are watching the game in HD.

Next question. If I subscribe to the HD service to obtain the other channels, such as discovery HD, etc. and pick up the DVR-HD box monday, will I still be able to use the direct signal to the TV - will it recognize those subscriptions channels as well? That way I can continue to use the TV tuner and only use the DVR-HD receiver box when we want to record and play shows at a later time?

Thanks

If I subscribe to the HD service to obtain the other channels, such as discovery HD, etc. and pick up the DVR-HD box monday, will I still be able to use the direct signal to the TV ?

Thanks


No, as the TV won't know you have the permission to view those channels. You would have to have a CableCard for your TV to know you have the permission to view those encrypted channels.

Not sure why some hate boxes, maybe it's just the size. But with todays technology, you can hide the boxes, and never see them. Plus with a box, you get the program guide (and the built-in TV Guides on TV's are not user friendly), OnDEMAND Service, interactive TV, and other future services.

No, as the TV won't know you have the permission to view those channels. You would have to have a CableCard for your TV to know you have the permission to view those encrypted channels.

Not sure why some hate boxes, maybe it's just the size. But with todays technology, you can hide the boxes, and never see them. Plus with a box, you get the program guide (and the built-in TV Guides on TV's are not user friendly), OnDEMAND Service, interactive TV, and other future services.


Well, it means one more component to run signal through, one more honkin huge remote to keep track of (I know the remotes are all programmable, there are functions on either remote that are beyond the basic programming that each would accept for control of the other) I could also reserve the box for the basement to be used with the projector and let the TV do it's own tuning rather than have to run remote repeaters all over the house, etc. I guess it all boils down to personal preference.

So, a cable card for my TV. Like I said, I'm not up on TVs. Me and my projector got along just fine and I never worried about the TV signal, I just used a scaler for the TV signal to the projector. Now that we are going to have hi-def service, is there a source you can refer me to to know if my tv will accept a "card" and how I get one?

Thanks!

Lori

So basically what you are saying is, if you already pay for the analog channels, then you have to pay more for the digital versions of the same channels. What happens to the tiers and pricing when cox is finally all-digital? A lot of people have digital and analog TV's connected to cox. Will they pay double to have 2 formats of the same channels? Or will they pay an extra monthly fee for each set top box/remote for each analog TV? Sounds like this could get expensive.

You are not paying more for those same channels to be digital. A person with a digital box is already paying for the box to receive digital content (i.e. Tiers, HD content, OnDEMAND, and Premium Movie Channels), but now get some of the 2-74 channels in digital. They are encrypted because if you didn't pay for Expanded service (23-74), you would receive them if they were unencrypted as they run at a higher Freq than the traps Cox uses at the moment, and your QAM TV would see them. So a person only paying for Limited would get those channels for free if they were unencrypted.

You ask what will happen when Cox goes all digital? Remember Cox doesn't have to ever go all digital, unlike what alot of people think. The FCC rules forcing broadcasters to go to digital don't apply to cable operators, as they don't broadcast, it's a close system. Will Cox go all digital someday? Yes, as it would open all that bandwidth for new services, faster internet and ect. Cost for customers when that happens is would be hard to tell at this time. Technology is changing, so who knows what TV's will be able to do in 5 or more years.

If Cox went all digital right now, every TV would have to either have a digital box or have a built in QAM tuner with CableCard. Customer would then have the pick of different digital boxes, as Cox would probably offer a stripped down, smaller box at little or no rental fee (no guide, OnDEMAND, and other extra services). One article says the price of a digital box that a Cable provider pay for a box would have to go down to about $30 to $50 per box before it would be profitable for a operator to go all digital.

Hope this helps, and hope it's clear as it's late at night.

Well, it means one more component to run signal through, one more honkin huge remote to keep track of (I know the remotes are all programmable, there are functions on either remote that are beyond the basic programming that each would accept for control of the other) I could also reserve the box for the basement to be used with the projector and let the TV do it's own tuning rather than have to run remote repeaters all over the house, etc. I guess it all boils down to personal preference.

So, a cable card for my TV. Like I said, I'm not up on TVs. Me and my projector got along just fine and I never worried about the TV signal, I just used a scaler for the TV signal to the projector. Now that we are going to have hi-def service, is there a source you can refer me to to know if my tv will accept a "card" and how I get one?

Thanks!

Lori

If you are receiving the local HD channels through Cox Coax, then your TV has a built in QAM tuner and is CableCard ready.

Remote repeaters are wireless now, there are mega all-in-one remotes (granted they are about 100 to 500 dollars)

If you are receiving the local HD channels through Cox Coax, then your TV has a built in QAM tuner and is CableCard ready.

Remote repeaters are wireless now, there are mega all-in-one remotes (granted they are about 100 to 500 dollars)

Ok, how bout this. It's just one more thing to DUST :p
And one more remote for the dogs to chew on :eek:

Thanks for the info. I appreciate it.

If you are receiving the local HD channels through Cox Coax, then your TV has a built in QAM tuner and is CableCard ready.

This answer puzzles me. One of my HDTVs has a QAM tuner and I'm getting all the digital/HD channels Cox passes thru with just the standard cable plugged into the back of the unit.

However, I do NOT have a cablecard slot on the TV, so I'm pretty sure I could never use a cablecard.

My main HDTV is connected to a COX HD DVR, so I'm able to compare the cox box vs QAM on two different TVs.

It's actually pretty amazing how many digital and HD channels they pass through without the cable box. Contrary to what has been reported before, I'm getting more than the standard broadcast channels. Can't recall all the specific channels, but I do remember seeing at least a couple "shopping channels" (why do those need to be digital?) somewhere up there in the 119-120.something range...)

Oh no, I just had a thought... Maybe I'm getting the shopping channels bootleg? I could go to jail for bootlegging the shopping channels! :rolleyes:

I think the shopping channels and others are coming through digitally rather than HD. Your local HD's ---NBC, FOX, CBS, ABC, PBS are probably coming in HD.

My local cable company offers to upgrade you to all digital for $3 per month. It's nice, but you need a cable card or cable box. But, you lose the QAM benefit of getting those free HD channels--but there's a solution--buy a cheap $25 antenna and you will pick them up and then some--and they are more clear.

By the way, I was a proponent of cable card and got one, but, after a month switched to a Pace Tahoe HDDVR--still $3 per month---REALLY NICE. And then of course I paid $5 more for some HD and then $3 more for even more HD. The tuner in the PACE seems to make my Sony Wega have even a nicer picture.

I bought my dad the LG CRT 30 inch HDTV last night for $560.00. It's really nice too. We did the digital scan and sure enough he is getting all the local HD broadcasts---hard to go back to STD after HDTV!

And to answer the question fromabove about why some hate cable boxes--I was one of these people. I didnt like the fact that I paid good money for my TV and with a STB my Sony tuner wasnt being used. Also, I didnt like that I had to use another remote.

But as I mentioned I did switch to a Pace box--nice. The real raeson I swithced was because whenever I changed channels and the audio type changed, for example, if the audio on one channel was dolby digital and the next station was not, my receiver clicked on and off. I called Crutchfield and they said that wasnt good. They couldnt explain it, but recommended getting rid of thecard and getting the box because now my TV was just a monitor and wouldnt be switching channels--the box would.

So I did this. And it is great. The DVR is incredible. the on screen guide is great and I found taht a lot of the VOD is actually free. If you have kids, there are tons of free stuff that you just call up and start playing. And, if your local company is willing to up your service to all digital for a small fee----do it, not just for video, but even more for audio. Dont forget you'll need a fiber optic connection between the box and receiver to get real Dolby Digital 5.1. You can buy the cable at Sams club for $11.00

For those with QAM tuners outside of the Wichita market...

My TV is picking up channel 90.010 -- and it looks like the Video on Demand channel with the "Press Select" button and all (unlike the Channel 1 with the Cox Box, which will only have the "Press Select" button once it goes live) and it looks like it is "live" and would work if only I had a way to press "select."

Anyone else noticed this channel? Is there any use to it without the Cox Box? I would assume if there was a way to emulate the Cox Remote and press that select button that all the programming is coming off Cox's computers and would come through the standard Coax cable?

Just some thoughts... At least it's one more thing that's kept my mind off the fact that we still don't have VoD outside of Wichita yet.

For those with QAM tuners outside of the Wichita market...

My TV is picking up channel 90.010 -- and it looks like the Video on Demand channel with the "Press Select" button and all (unlike the Channel 1 with the Cox Box, which will only have the "Press Select" button once it goes live) and it looks like it is "live" and would work if only I had a way to press "select."

Anyone else noticed this channel? Is there any use to it without the Cox Box? I would assume if there was a way to emulate the Cox Remote and press that select button that all the programming is coming off Cox's computers and would come through the standard Coax cable?

Just some thoughts... At least it's one more thing that's kept my mind off the fact that we still don't have VoD outside of Wichita yet.

Wouldn't work as your TV has no way to talk back to the Cox servers. You have to be able to communicate with the Cox servers, and TV's on their own can not do that, must have a box.

Plus the frequency that VOD runs on isn't the same frequency at all times. Cox is using 4 different frequencies to run VOD and every push of the remote button is transmitted on one of those 4. So everytime you hit the down button on the remote, it might transmit one freq, and the next time on a different and so on.

This answer puzzles me. One of my HDTVs has a QAM tuner and I'm getting all the digital/HD channels Cox passes thru with just the standard cable plugged into the back of the unit.

However, I do NOT have a cablecard slot on the TV, so I'm pretty sure I could never use a cablecard.




Sorry my bad, as all TV's I've come across are CC ready and have the QAM tuner.

Anyone noticed tonight it took KWCH 12 almost an hour to turn the right "switch" for the audio on their HD programing??? Everytime the audiance laughed, you couldn't hear the actors.

Anyone noticed tonight it took KWCH 12 almost an hour to turn the right "switch" for the audio on their HD programing??? Everytime the audiance laughed, you couldn't hear the actors.

I wasn't watching CBS last night, but KWCH seems to have a lot of trouble with audio on their HD feeds. I watch football on KWCH every Sunday, and it seems like they "always" have periods (some short, some long) where the audio is out and all you can hear is the stadium noise and announcers inside the stadium.

The KU BB game on CBS HD sunday, had a similar quirk. When the ball "swished"
through the nets, it sounded like a crack of lightning or something. Almost made you jump.

I just did a rescan of the channels being picked up by my TV (I have a regular tuner and QAM tuner on this TV) -- and the new scan picked up two digital NBC channels.

115.002 -- Seems to be the HD version of the channel.
115.003 -- Seems to look just like the regular NBC Channel 3.

Is this what you guys were talking about with the "simulcast" discussion several messages ago? Is 115.003 basically the digital-but-non-HD-version of NBC Channel 3?

If so, then that means I can watch 3 versions of NBC: the standard, the digital, and the HD?

If that's the case, what's the real benefit of the digital version, other than the fact that it's just a slighly better resolution than Channel 3? Wouldn't it be true that the programming is always either going to be in standard definition or HD, so the "digital-non-HD" channel would basically be useless?

YES! With college basketball season heating up, I hope to see a lot of college basketball in HD on ESPN2 HD. Bring it!

In my opinion, sports is just about the only reason to own an HDTV. Sure, I marveled at Discovery HD Theatre when my HDTV was brand spankin' new. But it didn't take too long to realize that sports is where it's at when it comes to HD programming.

So the more sports Cox can put on the HD tier the better as far as I'm concerned.

On another note... Hey KScableguy, any new info on when I might be able to get OnDemand service outside of the Wichita market?


I agree sports is great in HD. the main reason to get it. nut with tha being said ESPN2 is one of the worst high def channels available. I have scrolled a week ahead in the guide and only found to programs in HD. 2 crappy no name college bb games.

It appears most of their programming is regular or ED programming.
So I would have to say the limited hd content makes this a weak choice for
a replacement chanell. They could have given us NFL Network in HD which is almost all HD content all the time.

I am majorly disappointed. If it wasnt for cable internet, I would switch to satellite HD right now. So much more content!

I agree sports is great in HD. the main reason to get it. nut with tha being said ESPN2 is one of the worst high def channels available. I have scrolled a week ahead in the guide and only found to programs in HD. 2 crappy no name college bb games.

Upon review, I completely agree! My previous comments were made right after it was introduced, and before I had done a guide scan to find the same thing you discovered -- they've got SQUAT for HD programming.

Perhaps it will improve as we get closer to the NCAA Tournament, but even then it's just a short-term HD channel at best.

I think we all may need to place a call to Cox and let them know that we want a different HD channel. ESPN2 is just not cutting it. Period.

I would switch to satellite HD right now. So much more content!

No there isn't.....go to DirecTV and see what they offer...TNT and HDNet. That's all. But in fact they don't offer INHD1, MHD or your locals in HD.

No there isn't.....go to DirecTV and see what they offer...TNT and HDNet. That's all. But in fact they don't offer INHD1, MHD or your locals in HD.

Dish has much more to offer, but you have to look at quality vs. quanity. It is great to have 25 HD channels, but I would probably only watch 5 or 6 at the most, however I believe that they do have HD on demand movies.
Directv is "supposed" to have more offerings this year, we will see...

New release from DirecTV... we will see if it holds up... but some very interesting stuff...
Linky (http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=948332&highlight=)

New release from DirecTV... we will see if it holds up... but some very interesting stuff...
Linky (http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=948332&highlight=)

Now that would be the first time I actually would give thought to moving from Cox to DirecTV.

I'd definitely have to see it in action, but the thought of having 100 HD channels is certainly appealing. We'll see if it happens.

On another note, I called Cox last night and requested that they drop ESPN2 HD and replace it with another channel that actually carries programming in HD. The CSR told me that they were told that ESPN2 is working on additional programming in HD over the next year, and that they've been told that people should take a "wait and see" position on ESPN2 HD as they continue to work to bring HD programming to that channel. Again, I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Now that would be the first time I actually would give thought to moving from Cox to DirecTV.

I'd definitely have to see it in action, but the thought of having 100 HD channels is certainly appealing. We'll see if it happens.

On another note, I called Cox last night and requested that they drop ESPN2 HD and replace it with another channel that actually carries programming in HD. The CSR told me that they were told that ESPN2 is working on additional programming in HD over the next year, and that they've been told that people should take a "wait and see" position on ESPN2 HD as they continue to work to bring HD programming to that channel. Again, I guess we'll have to wait and see.

They are full of it. This is just a standard response they are giving. I would bet on it.

I am guessing we got this piece of crap channell because of some sort of package discount because we already have ESPNHD.

You just have to laugh. Guess I can't speak for anyone else, but my OTA HD -AND- Cox channel for Fox has been basically off for the majority of the first quarter of the NFL Championships.

At first I thought, "Have I been too cocky about my OTA HD setup, bragging to my friends about dropping Cox and their POS HD-DVR?". Then after realizing it was the same way on Cox, I felt a bit better. In a nauseated kinda way.

It's nice to be reminded what a small and insignificant hick town Wichita is, and how we can't seem to find enough qualified help to run a TV station. Or perhaps I could be proven wrong by finding out it was with the Fox network for the ENTIRE country?

Tools.

You just have to laugh. Guess I can't speak for anyone else, but my OTA HD -AND- Cox channel for Fox has been basically off for the majority of the first quarter of the NFL Championships.

At first I thought, "Have I been too cocky about my OTA HD setup, bragging to my friends about dropping Cox and their POS HD-DVR?". Then after realizing it was the same way on Cox, I felt a bit better. In a nauseated kinda way.

It's nice to be reminded what a small and insignificant hick town Wichita is, and how we can't seem to find enough qualified help to run a TV station. Or perhaps I could be proven wrong by finding out it was with the Fox network for the ENTIRE country?

Tools.

It's working here, although 24-1's signal is really low. I had to move my antenna to pick it up, which normally isn't necessary.

Dave G.

It (the entire signal) was actually -gone- on both OTA and Cox for several minutes, then finally came back around 3:33 left in the first. And came back in SD. Finally switched back to HD as the 1st quarter ended.

Sigh. I don't think I'll ever understand why these locals seem to have such difficulty with HD. I have to admit, I'm surprised it was Fox, usually they're rock solid. I'm used to CBS being a complete embarrasment, with NBC following a close second.

Regardless, IT'S THE CHAMPIONSHIPS. For crying out loud, work the kinks out ahead of time.

I experienced the same thing with the game Sunday. But more annoying was Friday night about 7:45 or 8 pm. All of my boxes all of a sudden reverted to C-Span, and stayed there for about 10 minutes or so. I suspect it was for an Amber alert or a weather alert. I don't understand why they can't work this out. Everytime this past summer there was a tornado warning and it was imperative that you see your local channel, I could not change channels to see the radar and we were stuck on C-span. This is awful.

I experienced the same thing with the game Sunday. But more annoying was Friday night about 7:45 or 8 pm. All of my boxes all of a sudden reverted to C-Span, and stayed there for about 10 minutes or so. I suspect it was for an Amber alert or a weather alert. I don't understand why they can't work this out. Everytime this past summer there was a tornado warning and it was imperative that you see your local channel, I could not change channels to see the radar and we were stuck on C-span. This is awful.

Yeah, my box display scrolled "EAS" during that time and switched to CSPAN and would not allow me to change channels. Would have been really annoying had I been recording something. But since my DVR has been hijacked by my 10 year old daughter (lots of Cheetah Girls, Drake & Josh, Full House reruns, etc. etc.), that wasn't an issue.

I was puzzled by the issue, so before I figured out it was an Amber Alert, I called Cox. Their CSR told me he didn't know what the "EAS" code was, but that it was probably just a software update or something (duh!).

I was puzzled by the issue, so before I figured out it was an Amber Alert, I called Cox. Their CSR told me he didn't know what the "EAS" code was, but that it was probably just a software update or something (duh!).

EAS= Emergency Alert System

It was for an Amber Alert. In Wichita on the reg. Digital boxes there was a banner that went across the top of the screen detailing what was going on.

I understand how it can cause problems if recording that the box changes channels on you. Maybe Cox can work this out sooner than later.

The icing on the cake was that my wife missed Las Vegas AND we never got the alert scroll anyway. This must be fixed. It's been a problem for a long time. Both of our DVR's had an 8 pm recording that got the "recording error" on them. I can live with the occasional hiccup but this issue is my biggest pet peeve in terms of technical snafu's. When the EAS comes up it prevents you from getting the info you need and usually you are in the middle of getting it when it turns to C-span. This is a danger to the public rather than a help during severe weather. Come on Cox!

I was recording two shows simultaneously at 7pm last Friday and didn't think nothing of the Amber Alert I heard about on the local news later until I realized that any EAS message will stop a recording dead in its tracks. Both of my shows quit recording at 7:07. I find it odd that if the box is recording a show and a power failure occurs, the box will try to resume the recording of your scheduled show once power resumes, but if it's an EAS interruption, then forget about restarting. At that point, your recording is toast.

It's also very annoying if you happen to be watching a show from the buffer (say timeshifting by 20 minutes or so) and an EAS alert occurs. Even though the tuner will revert to the channel you were watching, you're sent back to the live feed, not where you were in the buffer. All the content you hadn't seen is gone.

Oh well, at least with a VCR, you got the whole show.

Oh well, at least with a VCR, you got the whole show.

And I usually make fun of my friends who still use VCRs! :rolleyes:

HDTV Tuner/DVR for your PC?

Has anyone here used the Pinnacle PCTV HD Tuner/DVR for your PC? Supposedly it picks up OTA HD and non-HD signals and streams them on your computer. You can either just watch or it will record. I believe it even allows you to plug your cable into it, which would be cool for recording shows to take with you on the road.

Anyhow, it seems like a really awesome HD device for around $100 -- but I'm curious if anyone here has it?

HDTV Tuner/DVR for your PC?

Has anyone here used the Pinnacle PCTV HD Tuner/DVR for your PC? Supposedly it picks up OTA HD and non-HD signals and streams them on your computer. You can either just watch or it will record. I believe it even allows you to plug your cable into it, which would be cool for recording shows to take with you on the road.

Anyhow, it seems like a really awesome HD device for around $100 -- but I'm curious if anyone here has it?

I've seen one person using that device. It does what it says it does...decodes QAM, but no encoded QAM. The HD look good, but not great. But could have been the display the person was using.

I've seen one person using that device. It does what it says it does...decodes QAM, but no encoded QAM. The HD look good, but not great. But could have been the display the person was using.

Are you saying that if I plugged my Cox Cable into the device, it would pick up the same HD & Digital channels I'm getting with my QAM HDTV that's using COX standard cable plugin?

I see a couple uses for me:

1. My laptop as a TV and recorded shows for road/plane trips.

2. I can export the programming to any format, meaning I put HD programming onto my Playstation 3 to watch on my HDTV that does not have a Cox DVR on it.

Anyhow, I'm sure like a lot of you who read this board, I'm just a techno junkie and this seems like a pretty cool little piece of plastic and computer chips to add to my collection of other cool pieces of plastic and computer chips. :)

KScableguy,

Could you use your contacts @ Cox and have them reduce the volume level on Channel 1 (OnDemand)? The volume level is WAY TOO LOUD compared to the other channels. Figured calling Cox wouldn't do me any good so I thought I would ask you.
Thanks

47 HD CAMERAS AT THE SUPERBOWL!!!

http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6410623.html?display=Feature

This article pretty much sums it up. Funny how they have the teams playing listed as the Colts and Saints (poor Bears, no respect), but the High-Def camera stuff is pretty interesting to read.

47 HD CAMERAS AT THE SUPERBOWL!!!

Where is CBS getting 47 HD cameras? They can't manage to broadcast more than 3 games each week in HD during the regular season. I guess that may be due more to production trucks rather than cameras, but still, CBS leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to HD and the NFL

Where is CBS getting 47 HD cameras? They can't manage to broadcast more than 3 games each week in HD during the regular season. I guess that may be due more to production trucks rather than cameras, but still, CBS leaves a lot to be desired when it comes to HD and the NFL

That's a good question. :rolleyes:

CBS is by far my least favorite network to watch football on.

I live in Houston, but my elderly parents (who live in Hutchinson) are preparing to upgrade to an HD set. I've been scanning the posts here to get an idea of customer satisfaction with Cox cable service in your area. I sense a lot of dissatisfaction with both the number of HD stations and the quality of Cox service. Am I reading that right?

I use both DirecTV and broadcast here in Houston and have no complaints on either source. If Cox is that bad, why do you keep using them? My parents won't tolerate service that's any worse than standard cable. Do the Wichita broadcast channels provide a decent HD alternative for the network shows? Does satellite service provide good reception there?

Thanks for any suggestions.

I live in Houston, but my elderly parents (who live in Hutchinson) are preparing to upgrade to an HD set. I've been scanning the posts here to get an idea of customer satisfaction with Cox cable service in your area. I sense a lot of dissatisfaction with both the number of HD stations and the quality of Cox service. Am I reading that right?

It would take an awful lot for me to leave Cox. I'm extremely pleased with their customer service (fast and easy by phone, except during peak times when the on-hold wait can get longer). I'm not in the Hutchinson market, but in my market the HD selection is acceptable.

That's not to say I don't complain about wanting more channels in HD, but who doesn't. Keep in mind that this board is probably full of more 'technofiles' than average users. I'm quite sure your elderly parents (who remember b/w tv, no doubt) will be more than pleased with Cox.

Just be sure to remind them to find the HD Channels on the Program Guide so they're not always watching stuff in Analog that they could be watching in HD.

Anyone have a link to the OTA HD channels in the Wichita market? I just got my set in the past couple of weeks and started to play with the OTA features as I'm not home enough to purchase anything but basic service from Cox. (In Augusta the past few weeks they haven't been real reliable anyway, seem to be down as much as up). I was able to find Kake, KSNW, KWCH, MyTV, fox and CW but PBS didn't seem to come in and I couldn't find the channel desigantions for the alternate stations that are supposedly broadcast (kwch WX comes to mind)

I was using a set of rabbit ears in the basement of all things and will be able to watch the game Sunday in HD!!!!

Find HD channel info for any location at http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx

FYI, all HD stations broadcast in UHF, so rabbit ears (for VHF channels) won't give the best reception. The above link will point you to the correct level of antenna you will need at your house. If you're close to the towers a simple bow tie from Radio Shack might be enough.

And that leads me back to my previous post: how are the broadcast stations in Wichita?

Fortunately it is a combo set of ears...that is it handles multiple frequencies.

Antennaweb.org doesn't have the additional alternate frequencies...

Are these the frequencies you're looking for?

That is what I was looking for. Thanks.

As I was playing with my antenna in the basement, I found KWCH Weather. KPTS (PBS) is still alluding me. Overall I am impressed with the digital I am getting. Looks much better on my LCD than standard cable. I just watch a bunch of stuff on PBS and would like to see it in digital! I may have to get a better antenna, but I didn't plan it right when I finished the room in the basement. I have too many insulated walls to try to get a cable though to where the tv is. I have it wired for the cable tv, just not for the extra antenna wire.

Fortunately it is a combo set of ears...that is it handles multiple frequencies.

Antennaweb.org doesn't have the additional alternate frequencies...

Those still aren't ideal for UHF.

You may be able to di-plex an OTA signal into your current coax run. This all depends on what frequencies your cable occupies. I use satellite so it works for me. You'll need two di-plexors, one where you would combine your two signals and one where you'd split it back out (at your TV). PBS is supposedly the hardest station to acquire, but if you can get KWCH you should be able to get PBS as they are broadcast from the same tower in Hutch. If your not able to get PBS, you'll probably need a Silver Sensor (indoor) or an outside (or attic) UHF antenna.

I thought about di-plexing that, but not sure how Cox runs cable. I have a modular box in the basement that all the telephone, computer network and Cable wires run into, and I can add an external antenna wire to that box. I can even disconnect that run for a dedicated antenna run.

Superbowl / Wichita KWCH / HD Switch Concerns

Anyone else concerned that our local CBS Affiliate, KWCH, will screw something up during the superbowl broadcast and we'll all be watching in SD at some point during the game?

I don't believe it's my imagination that KWCH had problems controlling the switch many times during the regular season. Issues with 5.1 audio, issues with games that were being broadcast in HD but KWCH didn't flip the local switch, etc.

It seems like CBS (national) is going all-out with their HD broadcast of this superbowl -- a 100% high-definition broadcast only downconverted to analog for people with analog TVs -- and I want to sit and enjoy the game in all it's high-def glory without fear of our local affiliate screwing things up.

Perhaps I'll give them a call and discuss my concerns directly with them ahead of time -- instead of thinking about it on Sunday as it happens when no one is at the station to be contacted.

I'd be interested in that as well. I am for the first time going to watch a game in High-Def.

Good thing is it will only be my household watching it in case of issues.

Di-plexing into your cable signal can cause problems, esp with antenna signal. I know Dish signal will screw up Cox's internet signal and digital cable signal. You would be better off just running a dedicated antenna line.

Anyone else have problems with channels missing from their DVR guide tonight? I was missing all my local channels, both analog and HD. And this made me miss all my recordings tonight.

Yep, the same thing happened to me. Most of my recordings didn't work at all. And some of them recorded the wrong channel. There are still several channels missing.
Also, I had the guide set to skip over the channels that I don't receive, but now they are all back in the list.
Another odd thing is in the DVR list, the recordings are showing the wrong channel number. For example, shows recorded from Cartoon Network are listed as channel 301 instead of 63.

I noticed that there's a TV Guide logo in the program guide that I don't remember being there before. I wonder if that has anything to do with this.

Update: It's worse than I thought. Somehow all of my scheduled recordings are all set to record the wrong channels. It looks like I'm going to have to go and reschedule all of my shows. :( I'm beginning to see why so many people hate this DVR.

My Cox DVR scheduled recordings are completely hosed right now. I'm going to have to redo 30+ scheduled recordings between two DVR boxes.

And with the Super Bowl this Sunday, many of my typical shows won't be back on until next week, so I'll have to try and remember to reschedule them. :mad:

This is ridiculous, and I hope whatever caused the problem never happens again.


FYI, there's a brief article about it already at the Wichita Eagle's website (http://www.kansas.com/mld/kansas/16609703.htm) (emphasis mine):

It's been a glitch-filled week for customers of Cox Communications.

Not only did technical malfunctions disrupt the recording schedules of Cox's DVR customers on Thursday, but they also interrupted local network broadcasts on Tuesday and again on Friday.

Friday's glitches caused KWCH, Channel 12, and KAKE, Channel 10, to have a frozen picture between about 4:30 and 7 a.m.

Though annoying, the glitches are unusual, said Cox spokeswoman Sarah Kauffman. And the company is not anticipating any interruption of Sunday night's Super Bowl broadcast.

But Cox's DVR customers will need to reset their recording preferences to ensure they get the programs they want in the future.

I talked with Cox tonight and they said they were going to push some more software to the DVRs tonight to CORRECT a problem they caused with an earlier update. I understood that meant (in my case)....that the series manager....which SHOWS all my
shows that are to be recorded...BUT when you look at what is SCHEDULED to record..that menu shows NO SHOWS are queued---this new update should sync the series manager back up so you don't have to redo all your shows.... SINCE I don't have any faith in the fix. I already deleted everything out of series manager and will
add them all back in. I HOPE the new update doesn't mess it all up again.

Anyone else having a stutter on their CBS HD Feed? Seems like every 3 to 10 seconds there is a stuttter in the pictures and it is very noticable.

Anyone else having a stutter on their CBS HD Feed? Seems like every 3 to 10 seconds there is a stuttter in the pictures and it is very noticable.

I had noticed it also, espically during that performance before the game... I was really starting to get worried, however it didn't notice it once the game started....
Kind of strange.
That usually happens on KSN during football games or nascar races, it is very annoying, however I did figure something out.... If you go into the setting of your cable box and I changed the setting to 720p instead of 1080i, it seems to clear it up on my tv. I have a Sony 60" XBR 1, (1080i upscaled to 1080p). However, I had never seen it happen on KWCH until yesterday.

Anyone using a projector for their HD viewing?

I just purchased an HD projector (DLP, 720p, HDMI or component input) for business use, but I figured I might want to at least hook it up to my Cox HD DVR to see what the picture quality is like. I also have a PS3 and the thought of playing games on a giant HD screen is super-appealing.

So I wondered if any of you are using an HD projector for your regular HD viewing. What's it like? I'm salivating at the thought, but I've got to wait about a week for it to arrive.

I've seen HD projectors in use and have not been impressed. Unless the room is very dark, any light distorts the picture, you don't get that great of a picture. I rather have a really good LCD or Plasma TV instead.

Opposite opinion here. Once you start watching an 80"+ HD screen, there's no going back. Room doesn't have to be very dark with the right projector and screen. Direct light doesn't work, but particularly for sports which tend to be bright, it can easily tolerate some room light.

A warning though, this is a slippery slope. :)

Dave G.

A warning though, this is a slippery slope. :)

Ain't that the truth! :D

My "main" HDTV is only 46" (got the best fit for my family room -- rather that just going extremely large because I could afford it.) I have a 26" flat screen on the wall in my bedroom, too.)

We'll see... I tracked the shipment and it's supposed to be arriving tomorrow, so by this weekend I'll probably have hooked my PS3 up to it to watch a blu-ray movie or play a game. Who knows, maybe I'll love it so much I'll immediately begin working on that theatre room in my basement I'm always talking about doing some day.

Does PBS in Wichita have a particular time their running or are they running 24X7. I still can't pick them up OTA in Augusta.

Hey, does anyone know when cox will have on demand in mcpherson?

A-Dawg did you try calling cox? Thats what I did here in Goddard and then felt like a dumb ass when all I had to do the whole time was hit select on channel one.

I haven't had a chance to call them yet but channel 1 doesn't even show up on my guide.

In Newton, I've been seeing Channel 1 for a couple months or more, but I just get an error message or my system freezes up when I hit "select."

I call Cox once a week to ask about when the official launch in Newton will be, but they always give me the standard answer. Something like, "We're still making sure there are no bugs in the Wichita market. Once we're ready, we'll begin rolling out to the rest of the state."

Whatever, I'm not holding my breath at this point. I would be curious to know if anyone in the Wichita market has a good review of the On Demand service? What do you like, dislike? How's the quantity of free content? Etc. etc.

I call Cox once a week to ask about when the official launch in Newton will be, but they always give me the standard answer. Something like, "We're still making sure there are no bugs in the Wichita market. Once we're ready, we'll begin rolling out to the rest of the state."
.


They just launched Derby. Topeka just got VOD about a month ago. Now they are going out to western Kansas next. Hope for VOD in Newton in about month or two.

I know it stinks, but it's a complex system that has bugs that must be worked out before it rolled out to a certain area. Once you get it, you'll enjoy it. Signal if very important and so is a closed system in your home. Any noise, ingress will cause problems. If you ran your own lines and put your own fittings on, you'll want to get at least the fittings replaced with compression fittings.

Trust me you want a slow roll out to insure quality service.

They just launched Derby. Topeka just got VOD about a month ago. Now they are going out to western Kansas next. Hope for VOD in Newton in about month or two.
If you're correct about Newton still being a month or two down the road, that really sucks!!

You're telling me sparse western Kansas gets it before a city that is considered part of the Wichita Metro? What a freakin' joke, Cox.

You're telling me sparse western Kansas gets it before a city that is considered part of the Wichita Metro? What a freakin' joke, Cox.

More subscribers in Garden City and Dodge City than Newton. All down to number of houses served.


Good things comes to those who wait.

More subscribers in Garden City and Dodge City than Newton. All down to number of houses served. Good things comes to those who wait.

<pouting like a baby>But I don't want to wait!</pouting stopped>

Alright -- I get it... But I don't like it! :-)

I don't have VOD at my house either...so I know how you feel.

I don't have VOD at my house either...so I know how you feel.
You wanna know the annoying thing? My brother-in-law lives in Wichita and said he checked it out once and it didn't seem like there was anything worth checking out on it. So he hasn't even given it a 2nd look since a few days after it launched a couple months ago. Sheesh, c'mon now...

Has anyone else been having a problem with the sound going out on espn hd and enpn2 hd on cox?

I don't know about those channels, but I've noticed lately on Disney Channel, that several times per hour, the audio will go out for a second. I wish they'd hurry up and fix it...

KWCH Ch. 12 forgot to throw the "Switch" tonight for the first 5 mins of Jericho...thanks for the love there KWCH.......

Guess I'll be posting a bit from time to time now. Getting ready to join the New World of HDTV!

Anyone give me an idea what I'll be able to get here in McPherson using Cox?

Guess I'll be posting a bit from time to time now. Getting ready to join the New World of HDTV!

Anyone give me an idea what I'll be able to get here in McPherson using Cox?
I have no idea what's available in MAC, but welcome to the board. It's a bit addictive, and once you go HD, you'll never accept SD again. Especially if you're a sports fan.

Thanks for the Welcome Aboard moreinc...........But shhhhhhhh we don't even have the set in yet and my wife thinks I'm already addicted !!!

Anyone in here from Mac or have Cox info for me??

KWCH Ch. 12 forgot to throw the "Switch" tonight for the first 5 mins of Jericho...thanks for the love there KWCH.......

Well, they flipped the HD switch...

It was in HD, unlike some of the NFL games that are broadcast in HD.
It just had the audio screwed up so you could only hear the background sound and no dialog. Something KWCH has also been known to do at the beginning of NFL telecasts.

Couple of questions:

Is Cox transmitting HDTV in "clear channels" which don't require subscription to the Cox HDTV package?

If so, what are they and where/how can I find them?

Thanks for the help !

Couple of questions:

Is Cox transmitting HDTV in "clear channels" which don't require subscription to the Cox HDTV package?

If so, what are they and where/how can I find them?

Thanks for the help !
I have a built-in QAM tuner on one of my HDTVs, and I'm getting all the networks and the music channels, and a few others in HD and/or Digital with just a standard coax cable plugged into that TV.

A channel scan revealed all the digital channels that were coming through, the networks start at 114.1 and go through 116.something, I think. I don't watch much network TV, so I don't watch those channels that often.

Thanks again moreinc! Just getting started as you know. Have a neighbor who has HDTV and thinks I know way more than I do !! :p

Great information guys, im moving to Wichita in the next week and I think im going for Dish Network for the amount of HD channels you can get and its only $10 a month on top of their standard packages. Cox is outrageous prices for digital TV

Great information guys, im moving to Wichita in the next week and I think im going for Dish Network for the amount of HD channels you can get and its only $10 a month on top of their standard packages. Cox is outrageous prices for digital TV


I just did a price comparison of Dish Network v Cox.

For me to get the channels I now get with Cox I would have to get the Top 250 package. Plus would have to add HBO, Showtime, Starz, HD Channels, Local Channels and it comes up to $135 per month.

For Cox for the same channels it comes up to $118 per month.

Dish does give out a credit of $20 for the first 10 months. Cox gives $37 credit for the first 3 months.

Plus I get a $10 per month credit for having HSI service.

Couple of questions:

Is Cox transmitting HDTV in "clear channels" which don't require subscription to the Cox HDTV package?

If so, what are they and where/how can I find them?

Thanks for the help !

I'm new to this also and have a similar question about the Cox service in Manhattan, KS. We presently get HD with our digital service. HD service is the only thing I really want from COX (in addition to the regular analogue cable service) and I hate having to pay the gateway and box rental fees to get it - I feel like cox has its hands in my pockets at every turn.

I have a new LCD TV with a QAM tuner, I've plugged the cable line into the cable input on the TV but all I get when I do the automatic tuning is some audio only digital channels and one preview channel (79.x I think). I've tried entering some of the specific numbers listed previously in this thread but haven't had any luck with them.

Does anyone know if any of the HD channels are broadcast w/o encryption in Manhattan?

Also, is carrying network HD feeds w/o encryption something that is at the discretion of the cable company or something they are require to do?

Lastly, I see a number of references to a fox HD channel in the Wichita area - is this in your cox lineup? We don't get any fox HD - my understanding was that they weren't carrying it because they wouldn't pay for it.

Thanks in advance.

I just did a price comparison of Dish Network v Cox.

For me to get the channels I now get with Cox I would have to get the Top 250 package. Plus would have to add HBO, Showtime, Starz, HD Channels, Local Channels and it comes up to $135 per month.

For Cox for the same channels it comes up to $118 per month.

Dish does give out a credit of $20 for the first 10 months. Cox gives $37 credit for the first 3 months.

Plus I get a $10 per month credit for having HSI service.

Yeah i can understand that but I am not going for that many channels, I would spend $118 per month at cox but only spend $56 per month at Dish Network because we get the America's Top 200 package with DishHD and no premium channels (i watch HDnet Movies anyways). If i was going for more channels at more cost i would definately go with cox.

Lastly, I see a number of references to a fox HD channel in the Wichita area - is this in your cox lineup? We don't get any fox HD - my understanding was that they weren't carrying it because they wouldn't pay for it.

Fox HD is on Cox 116.10 in Wichita, and is unencrypted. Just a QAM tuner is required. I have
noticed latetly that all the locals are now being symulcasted in digital full-screen (4:3) in the
94.1 - 94.9 range, also unencrypted.

I'm new to this also and have a similar question about the Cox service in Manhattan, KS. We presently get HD with our digital service. HD service is the only thing I really want from COX (in addition to the regular analogue cable service) and I hate having to pay the gateway and box rental fees to get it - I feel like cox has its hands in my pockets at every turn.

I have a new LCD TV with a QAM tuner, I've plugged the cable line into the cable input on the TV but all I get when I do the automatic tuning is some audio only digital channels and one preview channel (79.x I think). I've tried entering some of the specific numbers listed previously in this thread but haven't had any luck with them.

Does anyone know if any of the HD channels are broadcast w/o encryption in Manhattan?

Also, is carrying network HD feeds w/o encryption something that is at the discretion of the cable company or something they are require to do?

Lastly, I see a number of references to a fox HD channel in the Wichita area - is this in your cox lineup? We don't get any fox HD - my understanding was that they weren't carrying it because they wouldn't pay for it.

Thanks in advance.

Just let your TV "autoprogram" or "search" for the channels. If you have a cable card or converter box, remove them and connect the Cox cable directly to your TV before doing the search.

Just let your TV "autoprogram" or "search" for the channels. If you have a cable card or converter box, remove them and connect the Cox cable directly to your TV before doing the search.

Thanks - that was my problem. I had the cable line running through the VCR which (I now realize) was preventing the TV from properly picking up the unencrypted digital channels.

I have them now - no HD Fox though but I don't get that with the digitial subscription either. I wonder why its available in Wichita but not elsewhere.

I have them now - no HD Fox though but I don't get that with the digitial subscription either. I wonder why its available in Wichita but not elsewhere.

It appears you are getting your FOX signal via FOX 43 from Topeka. They must not be transmitting a digital signal yet. Cox may be prohibited from carrying the FOX KC affiliate WDAF-DT since you are in the FOX 43 Topeka market.

I would start complaining to FOX 43. They are owned by Montgomery Communications in Junction City.

Good luck.

OnDemand in Newton?

Here we are in March and bearing down on the 2nd quarter of 2007 -- and still no indication when VoD is going to be available in Newton.

Anyone hear any new rumors/news?

BTW, did you guys see that DirecTV swiped the MLB Extra Innings package from Cox and other Cable companies? See: http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6524226

I never subscribed to Extra Innings, but I am thoroughly annoyed that DirecTV continues to snag these kinds of services away from Cable companies.

Local channel audio problem?

We live in Wichita. Have a problem with OTA HD reception of KWCH (Channel 12) 5.1 audio. It constantly cuts in and out. The TV speakers (2.0) are not a problem. All the rest of the local channels are great!

Equip't: DishHD, OTA outside ant., Mitsu 46231 TV, Pioneer VSX-D411, Oppo DV-970.

By the way, the Mitsu is a great LCD. No motion blur (sports), clouds, banding, etc.

tnx

Dave

BTW, did you guys see that DirecTV swiped the MLB Extra Innings package from Cox and other Cable companies? See: http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6524226

I
That may not be a done deal, on the HT Guys podcast last week they said that the FCC or some other governement organization was looking into the deal to see if it was legal.....

So, channel 1 finally showed up on my cox receiver here in Mcpherson, but when I select it I just get previews of ppv events and the remote quits working. I have to hold the power button on the receiver for a few seconds and reset the system befor I can change channels again. Does anyone have any idea what's going on?

So, channel 1 finally showed up on my cox receiver here in Mcpherson, but when I select it I just get previews of ppv events and the remote quits working. I have to hold the power button on the receiver for a few seconds and reset the system befor I can change channels again. Does anyone have any idea what's going on?

I had exactly the same problem when the on demand service started here in Manhattan. Cox's response was that the system was new and they were still working out the bugs. It did settle down a week or so into the service and now works most of the time but I still get lock-ups when I press select periodically.

KWCH does it again. The ncaa selection show is in HD, but not on KWCH. The people there really must be morons.

I had exactly the same problem when the on demand service started here in Manhattan. Cox's response was that the system was new and they were still working out the bugs. It did settle down a week or so into the service and now works most of the time but I still get lock-ups when I press select periodically.
I have had Channel 1 on my TV in Newton for several months now without actually getting the OnDemand Service. Every time I call about it, they tell me they're still testing and not ready to roll out in Newton.

They always tell me that if I'm seeing the channel, that's a step in the right direction, but they can't give me any indication of when they'll be "live" with the actual OnDemand channel.

And so I wait....................

KWCH does it again. The ncaa selection show is in HD, but not on KWCH. The people there really must be morons.
You know the thing that ticks me off the most about this?

I have called KWCH about their problems with not flipping the switch seemingly "all the time," and I get the runaround and they act as if I have no idea what I'm talking about.

A specific example is the Friday before the Super Bowl. I called them out of concern that they had messed up several times during the regular season and I wanted to make sure I enjoy ALL the Super Bowl in HD as it is broadcast from CBS Headquarters... They finally passed me around to different people until I got to someone who said they were in charge of the HD programming, and they acted shocked that I would accuse them of not being very good at handling the HD switch during the regular season. Uggghhh....

So, channel 1 finally showed up on my cox receiver here in Mcpherson, but when I select it I just get previews of ppv events and the remote quits working. I have to hold the power button on the receiver for a few seconds and reset the system befor I can change channels again. Does anyone have any idea what's going on?

Well VOD isn't in McPherson yet, so that is why your box is freezing when you hit select.

KWCH does it again. The ncaa selection show is in HD, but not on KWCH. The people there really must be morons.


This past Wednesday night (2nd time in 3 weeks) they forgot to throw the audio switch and for the first 3 mins of Jericho all I got was background music. I am going to send an E-Mail to their program director and let him know this is getting old. He's helped out before fixing some of the HD concerns I have had.

I have had Channel 1 on my TV in Newton for several months now without actually getting the OnDemand Service. Every time I call about it, they tell me they're still testing and not ready to roll out in Newton.

They always tell me that if I'm seeing the channel, that's a step in the right direction, but they can't give me any indication of when they'll be "live" with the actual OnDemand channel.

And so I wait....................


From the time they start Alpha testing to the time it goes live in a service area is about a month or so. This isn't just a turn a switch and it all works. There are alot of bugs to work out. And trust me, you want them to work the bugs out before launching in your area. Good things come to those who wait.

I guess you could always just move to Wichita.....just kidding......

Why is there so much talk about VOD in this forum? Doing a quick search I found 22 posts with 'VOD' in the Local HDTV - Wichita, KS thread. From what I understand, they will not offer anything in HD, so why talk about it here?

Jeff
(Not an internet cop, just curious if there is a better place for this)

Why is there so much talk about VOD in this forum? Doing a quick search I found 22 posts with 'VOD' in the Local HDTV - Wichita, KS thread. From what I understand, they will not offer anything in HD, so why talk about it here?

Jeff
(Not an internet cop, just curious if there is a better place for this)
<that slap on the wrist sure stings>... :p

Sometimes we don't stick to the exact topic on hand. In fact, many times we don't... I guess reading off-topic posts is a risk you've got to be willing to take before venturing onto this board.

I can't speak for everyone else, but I will try to keep my future comments from wandering off-topic.

Speaking of which... HOW 'BOUT THEM JAYHAWKS! kidding, sort of!

Just looking for advice from you guys and not trying to stray from the thread topic! :D :D

Have a question about converting an HD capable TV to HDTV. Which forum thread should I be in?

By the way moreinc :) :) :) ROCK CHALK!! :p :p

Just looking for advice from you guys and not trying to stray from the thread topic! :D :D

Have a question about converting an HD capable TV to HDTV. Which forum thread should I be in?

By the way moreinc :) :) :) ROCK CHALK!! :p :p


Depends on what you watch and who is your current service provider???

If you just want your locals, you might just get away with an antanna. If you want cable channels in HD, do you have Cox or Dish? Is your TV cable card ready? No matter who you have (cox or dish), I say get a DVR. Once you have one, you can't go on without one.

I know we sometimes stray from the HD topic but I subscribe to this particular forum because I consider it the AVS forum of Kansas. If you need help with HDTV in Kansas just ask but please consider the other posts in this forum as things you may want to look at later if you get the HT bug.

I personally have no problems with the variety of topics discussed here in the past as they more or less always concern watching TV in the Wichita area. Where else can these types of discussions be found? The previous discussions on VOD have been informative and hopefully someday in the future VOD will be available in HD here in Wichita (probably about the time moreinc gets SD VOD in his area, maybe).

Response from KWCH on their Audio problems and such:

Thank you for your comments. We are aware of the problem and it is a human problem. I want the operator fired for less than perfect performance. As for the Selection Show on Sunday, it was in HD. Apparently your information is not 100% accurate.

Laverne E Goering
Director of Programming and Production


Not sure if he was being sarcastic in wanting that person fired or not.......

WOW... The question of whether this is the right place for VoD certainly caused a lot of activity on this board, which is good at any rate. I agree with the comments that I consider this board the Kansas board for all things AVS.

Whatever the topic, keeping the thread moving forward and discussions going seems to be a benefit to all who use the board.

Agree totally with you moreinc.

Was wondering? Have any of the Wichita stations ever considered giving an HDTV tour/seminar for the public? Would definitely be interesting to see the equipment and be able to discuss HDTV face to face with the people who generate it.

Was wondering? Have any of the Wichita stations ever considered giving an HDTV tour/seminar for the public? Would definitely be interesting to see the equipment and be able to discuss HDTV face to face with the people who generate it.
I would be all for such a tour. It would help us regular folks know exactly what goes on "in studio" as far as HD goes. Then we could really know who to get mad at when things don't go as they should! :p

No Audio on CBS HD --1:17pm Saturday

Here we are again... I'm watching Xavier and Ohio State on CBS HD and the audio is not on. I'm only hearing the stadium noise. And because it's a Saturday, I'm sure I can't just call KWCH and tell them about it. Nice, real nice.

No Audio on CBS HD --1:17pm Saturday

Here we are again... I'm watching Xavier and Ohio State on CBS HD and the audio is not on. I'm only hearing the stadium noise. And because it's a Saturday, I'm sure I can't just call KWCH and tell them about it. Nice, real nice.


Call the number and pick the newsroom...then complain to the person who answers the phone....I've done that before and got it fixed that way...takes some time to get someone who understands what you are talking about.

What's so difficult for channel 12 CBS to make sure that HD is turned on? Cold case should be in HD......

I think there should be a special number to call to let the engineers know they
don't have the HD switch on...OR if it's something beyond their control....have a message stating so.....

Call the number and pick the newsroom...then complain to the person who answers the phone....I've done that before and got it fixed that way...takes some time to get someone who understands what you are talking about.

I did the same thing Sat. eve. I can't understand why they have so much trouble with this.

What's so difficult for channel 12 CBS to make sure that HD is turned on? Cold case should be in HD......

I think there should be a special number to call to let the engineers know they
don't have the HD switch on...OR if it's something beyond their control....have a message stating so.....

I called their newsroom about this lack of HD on KWCH and she transferred me to the master control operator, who then informed me that due to all the NCAA coverage that afternoon, CBS was not able to provide a HD feed of primetime programming Sunday night.

What seems to be weird, however, is this: What prevented a HD feed last night? Wasn't everybody in the country switched to whatever game was still in progress after their local game was done? By that thinking, everybody in the USA should have seen the Texas game conclusion and the NY studio wrap up and tease for the Sweet Sixteen on Thursday and Friday.

By my calculations, everybody in the nation should have gone to CBS network for "60 Minutes" at approximately 6:46 pm last night. Did not everybody start network programming at the same time? Or did certain areas of the country start their primetime at the conclusion of their local game?

The whole thing reminded me of Sunday afternoons when the Chiefs played a 3pm isolated game and KWCH had to take a SD feed from CBS when primetime rolled around as the game had gone long and the main HD network feed had already begun.

Here we go again with the Cox issues with the amber alert. Last night, Sunday, it totally fouled up 3 recordings. Why can't this issue be fixed. In general I am a Cox fan, but wearing very thin!
The CBS button pusher is a close 2nd on my "s" list right now.

Thank you for your comments. We are aware of the problem and it is a human problem. I want the operator fired for less than perfect performance. As for the Selection Show on Sunday, it was in HD. Apparently your information is not 100% accurate.

Laverne E Goering
Director of Programming and Production



That Selection Show was definitely not in HD via OTA from KWCH!! Is he calling me a liar? Hrrrumph!!

Jeff

I guess it was KSAS' turn to screw up. Last night, House ran long due to an extended version of American Idol. House went out of HD right at 9pm, as though it was on a timer. So the last five minutes of the show was in SD. However, they had the HD turned back on during the commercials and for the previews for the next episode. A much faster response than KWCH ever has!

Jeff

Does anyone else have problems with TNT-HD when movies come on that station the audio goes out of sync by about a minute but when they play tv shows its fine. Strange. I have Dish Network btw. It wouldnt really bother me but they play lots of good movies that i would like to DVR but since the audio is out of sync its painful to watch.

Does anyone else have problems with TNT-HD when movies come on that station the audio goes out of sync by about a minute but when they play tv shows its fine. Strange. I have Dish Network btw. It wouldnt really bother me but they play lots of good movies that i would like to DVR but since the audio is out of sync its painful to watch.
Step #1) Call DISH Network.
Step #2) Tell them you want to cancel. Hope you're not under contract.
Step #3) Call Cox. Sign up for their HD Service.
Step #4) Since they don't have TNT HD, your problems are solved!

Seriously, I don't know of anyone who has DISH or if DirecTV has TNT HD, so I couldn't tell you. But I would guess the problem is on TNT's end, and not DISH.

In short Ugg..

I can receive all local HDTV/DTV signals, on two different receivers, but two... 12.1 & 12.2 ...signal meter says that I am only receiving a 35% signal and not enough to display a picture?!?!

Even the KPTS-8 stations are all in the 97+ signal range {even during the rain}... and KWCH tells me that their tower is only 1/4 mile away from the KPTS tower....??

KWCH suggested that I call Hephner(sp?) TV whom in turn told me to call a third party whom told me to call KWCH who told me to call Hephner(sp?) whom in turn told to to call a fourth party and waiting for a return phone call.... from the fourth party....

I am a fan of DirecTV (been a subscriber since 1995) but can not get the east coast HD network feeds due to the *&%&(^*&$$#^ ruling a few years ago with out a waiver and the local stations will not give me a waiver....

Any suggestions on what to check??

and why only KWCH??

--David

In short Ugg..

I can receive all local HDTV/DTV signals, on two different receivers, but two... 12.1 & 12.2 ...signal meter says that I am only receiving a 35% signal and not enough to display a picture?!?!

Even the KPTS-8 stations are all in the 97+ signal range {even during the rain}... and KWCH tells me that their tower is only 1/4 mile away from the KPTS tower....??

KWCH suggested that I call Hephner(sp?) TV whom in turn told me to call a third party whom told me to call KWCH who told me to call Hephner(sp?) whom in turn told to to call a fourth party and waiting for a return phone call.... from the fourth party....

I am a fan of DirecTV (been a subscriber since 1995) but can not get the east coast HD network feeds due to the *&%&(^*&$$#^ ruling a few years ago with out a waiver and the local stations will not give me a waiver....

Any suggestions on what to check??

and why only KWCH??

--David

What Hephner TV doesn't want to admit they sold something bad???? NEVER.....

That is one company that never wants to admit it sometime sells bad stuff....they always blame someone else (cable company, local station, your cables and ect).

What Hephner TV doesn't want to admit they sold something bad???? NEVER.....

Did not buy/purchase from "Hephner"... It was only suggested that I contact them for help with installing/replacing my current antenna.

BUT___ :eek:

It is now looking like due to where I live... and it seems you have a 'direct line of sight {sort of}' to the digital transmitters ...I live in a limited foot print area where the signal from KWCH's digital transmitters is being blocked by local buildings.

As much as I hate 'COX CABLE' can I purchase a limited cable package that would allow reception of the local HD stations with out the need of a 'cable box' in the Wichita, KS market area, it seems that the customer service reps that I get only want to sell the "full package" and put me on hold.. opps disconnect ..when they try to ask their supervisors or tech support?

--David

PS: I live south west of the 'Starlite Drive-In'.

Did not buy/purchase from "Hephner"... It was only suggested that I contact them for help with installing/replacing my current antenna.

BUT___ :eek:

It is now looking like due to where I live... and it seems you have a 'direct line of sight {sort of}' to the digital transmitters ...I live in a limited foot print area where the signal from KWCH's digital transmitters is being blocked by local buildings.

As much as I hate 'COX CABLE' can I purchase a limited cable package that would allow reception of the local HD stations with out the need of a 'cable box' in the Wichita, KS market area, it seems that the customer service reps that I get only want to sell the "full package" and put me on hold.. opps disconnect ..when they try to ask their supervisors or tech support?

--David

PS: I live south west of the 'Starlite Drive-In'.

I'm guessing your TV has the built in QAM tunner? If so, just call Cox and order Limitied Service. Don't ask about anything else..........

Then just run a channel search once connected to the TV and you should pick-up the local HDs.

I was just told that COX no longer offers the " Limitied Service " package in the Wichita market to new subscribers.... Its not listed online to order so called CSR so did I just get a rep that did not know what they were talking about?
--David

KScableguy,
What happened on Cox that the electronic TV GUIDE listings are not being broadcast lately?
I have a DVR that gets its listings digitally from TV GUIDE (Cox), and it has not had its listings
downloaded to it for about 1 week now. This has worked flawlessly for the last 1.5 years,
and now something has changed. I have a friend that still gets his listings from TV GUIDE,
but has to do it with a OTA antenna now. His stopped working with Cox too.

Just spent over 4 hours with a local antenna expert.. and due to where my house is sitting I can not get a better, cleaner over the air signal due to barn and power lines.... had a choice of either KWCH & KSAS OR KPTS... one with the antenna pointing past the barns west-north-west side KWCH & KSAS or pointing to the barn the other pointing to the west-north-north side and pick up KPTS and not receive KSAS....

Choose the KWCH & KSAS option.

Called 'COX'.... was told I would have to pay $60 + tax for install and then $14 per-month (w/tax) for 'locals'

I did some checking and the FCC puts a limit on the 'Life Line' service at $10 and when I pointed this out to the kid 'Tony' at COX.. again as has happened every time I have call the 'Life Line Service' the phone line is dropped and I am hearing dial tone in my ears...

So at this point and time I am unsure just what I am going to do... I wrote to both KPTS and KWCH about getting a distance waiver for my DirecTV-HD service.

--David


PS: DirecTV is adding OK, City to the HD Locals In May...

I did some checking and the FCC puts a limit on the 'Life Line' service at $10 and when I pointed this out to the kid 'Tony' at COX.. again as has happened every time I have call the 'Life Line Service' the phone line is dropped and I am hearing dial tone in my ears...




LifeLine Service is for telephone service, not TV. Also the Lifeline service is for those who are on limited income.

http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/lllu.html

http://www.fcc.gov/wcb/tapd/open_proceedings/lifeline_linkup/LifelineLink_Up.html

Has anyone else noticed that, since jeffdb27's comments reprimanding us for talking about anything other than HD, this forum has really slowed down? In the months prior to the comment we were averaging about 40 posts per month and in the month following we have only had 27, including 5 than were in response to the comment and only 5 in the last two weeks. I think it about time to forget what one person says and get back into the swing of things.

LifeLine Service is for telephone service, not TV. Also the Lifeline service is for those who are on limited income.
http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/lllu.html
http://www.fcc.gov/wcb/tapd/open_proceedings/lifeline_linkup/LifelineLink_Up.html

The files that I found I guess were out dated... but it still does limit the fees and still requires the cable provider to offer a 'locals only' which COX does not list as a service offering online.

--David

The files that I found I guess were out dated... but it still does limit the fees and still requires the cable provider to offer a 'locals only' which COX does not list as a service offering online.

--David

Might not be listed online, but it is offered. $11 a month for channels 2 to 23.

Has anyone else noticed that, since jeffdb27's comments reprimanding us for talking about anything other than HD, this forum has really slowed down? In the months prior to the comment we were averaging about 40 posts per month and in the month following we have only had 27, including 5 than were in response to the comment and only 5 in the last two weeks. I think it about time to forget what one person says and get back into the swing of things.

Sorry :(

Jeff


However, it has been nice to come here and read things that are on topic, and not recieve an email that someone posted something, then get here and see that it is something off topic :D

Might not be listed online, but it is offered. $11 a month for channels 2 to 23.

I subscribe to this in Salina, along with having the digital box (no digital tier subscription) to get the locals in HD.

Jeff

I noticed that Cox just added National Geographic HD which is a pretty good channel, but I wish they could have picked up TNT HD for the NBA playoffs.

... but I wish they could have picked up TNT HD for the NBA playoffs.

I have TNT-HD on DISH. It's a joke. Apart from the NBA, I'm not sure they have any HD. Probably some of the movies are. They recently started showing repeats of Judging Amy. The picture looks like stretched out SD. All the commercials are stretched out of proportion.

People who buy expensive HD televisons, generally like to see things in their original aspect ratio. ESPN-HD used to do this too, saying they wanted to present a consistent view or some nonsense. Its consistently crap (IMHO). At least ESPN finally got it right, like most other HD stations. Come on TNT and get with the program!

Oh, and don't get me started on HBO-HD panning & scanning wide 2.35:1 movies down to 16:9. Arrrrg.

Jeff

I noticed that Cox just added National Geographic HD which is a pretty good channel, but I wish they could have picked up TNT HD for the NBA playoffs.

Here in Wichita? What channel?

National Geographic Channel HD channel 623. I just noticed it yesterday.

National Geographic Channel HD channel 623. I just noticed it yesterday.


Yup, NG is now HD on 623 in Wichita.

TNT will be added in about 3 to 4 weeks. So should only miss the 1st round of the NBA Playoffs. Plus all NASCAR coverage will be in HD for the first time (ABC, ESPN, FOX, and TNT).

The EAS problem with DVR's probably won't be fixed for another year or so, but they are working on a fix, just lil' harder than we all think.

Other HD channels wil be added this year (HGTV, A&E), but maybe not til closer to the end of the year.

What is the EAS problem? And what about the local CW station anyone have any ideas when they might go HD.

Cinemax HD would be a nice addition as well as a HiDef Pay-Per-View or OnDemand channel.

What is the EAS problem?


EAS problem is when an EAS alert is sent and broadcast, the only way to get the scroll on digital is to force tune the box to ch.18. With DVR's this stops your recordings. Well the box doesn't know to start recording, as it thinks you ended the recording early. They are woking on a fix that will allow the scroll on all channels, and not force tune the box. Sounds simple, but its not.

I don't understand why it stops recording. Under normal circumstances when I'm recording and tune to another channel the recording doesn't stop (unless I'm recording on both tuners).

Hi,

I searched this forum but didn't see any one noting this problem. I can't believe
no one has posted this before...BUT..I was just curious WHY the local channels...FOX in particular can't overlay a weather map icon, etc....without interrupting the HD signal. The format goes back to the 4:3. I'm assumming this
will finally be fixed when HD is all there is.... There must be more to it than what I think...Just wondering. It's not only via the DVR but the digital stations through the QAM tuner and OTA are also affected....

Thanks,
DRC

I've always assumed it requires upgraded/more expensive equipment to do the overlay, that stations don't yet have. They are probably using some of the same equipment that they use during the newscast and during normal production, all of which is in SD. I would guess when they start being able to do local news in HD, weather overlays follow quickly.

KSN (NBC) has the technology and has been using it occasionally. They add a scroll bar over the bottom of the HD feed. I saw it last night during Leno. KWCH (CBS) has also been doing it occasionally. They add a scroll bar at the bottom of the HD feed which compresses the picture vertically. KAKE (ABC) tends to not display weather warnings on the HD signal, only on the SD signal. KSAS (Fox) has been taking this course also until this week where they have gone completely overboard with two overlays and a scroll bar.

Thanks everyone for your response. I'm surprised that KSAS(Fox) didn't do the same as KWCH(CBS) for the local weather interruptions since...at least I think...Fox uses KWCH weather news...etc....

DRC

FYI, in Riverside with a roof antenna and a Samsung HD Tuner, I sometimes get 12.1 and 12.2 but usually lose the signal late in the evening, along with 36. Also don't get channel 8 (PBS). Emailed KWCH and as I recall they were not particularly concerned/helpful.

I always assumed their towers (KWCH/PBS) are just too far away. If anyone has suggestions, let me know!

In short Ugg..

I can receive all local HDTV/DTV signals, on two different receivers, but two... 12.1 & 12.2 ...signal meter says that I am only receiving a 35% signal and not enough to display a picture?!?!

Even the KPTS-8 stations are all in the 97+ signal range {even during the rain}... and KWCH tells me that their tower is only 1/4 mile away from the KPTS tower....??



--David

FYI, in Riverside with a roof antenna and a Samsung HD Tuner, I sometimes get 12.1 and 12.2 ....let me know!

I used Google Maps and traced the signal path and found that the KWCH / KPTS signals go right into my neighbors 40+ foot tall barn :confused:

I paid a guy from a local TV shop $70 to tell me that to get over the barn I would have to build a 40+ foot tall tower.... he spent four hours at my home and since he ended up not being able to improve my picture only charged me for an hour.

We adjusted antenna the best we could and ended up having a choice {due to a wind turbine roof vent} of either:
KWCH + KSAS
or
KPTS and loose KWCH and KSAS....
choose to loose KPTS....

--David

I sent an email to Fox and KWCH about the weather scrolls. Mr. Cornish at FOX (I don't know if he is related to Roger) said that they do not have the equipment to overlay the weather info on HD, but did say to be patient and they are working on it.

By the way, KWCH does the same thing and I emailed them too about going to SD during bad weather, but got no response.

I'm getting an occasional sound drop-out when watching KWCH OTA HD when my receiver says It is reading a Dolby signal. Is anyone else getting this too?

I get a signal reading on my TV of 96 to 98. All other stations come in clear and loud... only KWCH drops sound.

Hi,

I searched this forum but didn't see any one noting this problem. I can't believe
no one has posted this before...BUT..I was just curious WHY the local channels...FOX in particular can't overlay a weather map icon, etc....without interrupting the HD signal. The format goes back to the 4:3. I'm assumming this
will finally be fixed when HD is all there is.... There must be more to it than what I think...Just wondering. It's not only via the DVR but the digital stations through the QAM tuner and OTA are also affected....

Thanks,
DRC

KWCH Ch. 12 has been doing a message on their HD signal saying to tune to regular ch. 12 for weather updates since last November. Their Program Director is real good with fixing HD problems when notified.

I was very disapointed with Fox on Monday night durring 24 with the weather scrolls/maps.

KWCH Ch. 12 has been doing a message on their HD signal saying to tune to regular ch. 12 for weather updates since last November. Their Program Director is real good with fixing HD problems when notified.

I was very disapointed with Fox on Monday night durring 24 with the weather scrolls/maps.

Yes...that was the show I was referring to. It happened 2 nights in a row. I understand they need to inform the public but it was a little overdone.

DRC

FYI, in Riverside with a roof antenna and a Samsung HD Tuner, I sometimes get 12.1 and 12.2 but usually lose the signal late in the evening, along with 36. Also don't get channel 8 (PBS). Emailed KWCH and as I recall they were not particularly concerned/helpful.

I always assumed their towers (KWCH/PBS) are just too far away. If anyone has suggestions, let me know!


I just purchased a new HD TV. The QAM?? tuner pulled all the channels in from just the CABLE (114.1?? to 120.? ) T

Then I just have the antenna hooked up to what is inside my attic. I think it's 30 years old. I was VERY surprised I was able to get the HD channels like 12.1 , 10.1
-- all the main 4. I live just North of Riverside....Twin Lakes

My mom just bought a new TV too and I just hooked it up to an antenna I bought at Radio Shack. You do plug it in(power). It's just sitting on the fireplace mantel...5 feet off the ground..main floor and the TV found the 4 major channels and they all looked great. Just an FYI.

DRC

KPTS and KWCH digital signals will probably be easier to get OTA in Wichita once the DTV transition ends in February, 2009, since these stations and also KAKE will be moving their digital signals to their respective VHF channels.

Except that most of the antennas being sold as "DTV" are primarily designed for UHF. Certainly the set top antennas like the Silver Sensor that I have. So then many of us with have to re-buy.

Dave G.

Except that most of the antennas being sold as "DTV" are primarily designed for UHF. Certainly the set top antennas like the Silver Sensor that I have. So then many of us with have to re-buy.

Dave G.

Hu?

The whole reason for the digital signals was to free up the VHF band for other uses so why would the FCC allow the stations to move their signals back to the VHF band in 2009??

The stations could choose to move back to their original channel slot after the transition.

I believe up here in the Topeka market, KTWU will go back to their channel 11 from digital 23, and WIBW will go back to 13 from digital 44.

The stations could choose to move back to their original channel slot after the transition.

This is information I obtained at www.hdtvexpert.com ...

DTV broadcasts use exactly the same channels as regular analog television. While many DTV stations are now occupying UHF broadcast channels, broadcasters are allowed to move back to their original VHF or UHF TV channel once the transition to DTV is complete.

The only caveat is that TV channels 51 through 69 will be auctioned off for other uses at the end of the transition to digital TV on February 17, 2009. Stations who originally had analog channels in this band will have to move, no matter what.

One potential problem with re-using low VHF (2-6) TV channels for DTV is the possibility of interference from other signals during certain times of the year. "Skip" may bring in distant broadcasts on the same channel and create interference. Impulse noise is also a problem on low VHF channels. What’s more, the physical size of low VHF and high VHF antennas is much larger than that of a UHF antenna.

Tests so far seem to indicate that high VHF channels (7-13) are quite well suited for DTV broadcasts, and many broadcasters plan to move back to their high VHF channels at the end of the transition. VHF transmitters also cost much less money to operate than UHF transmitters.

As you can see, those TV stations whose analog channel was in the high VHF range will most likely go back to the old analog channel, KAKE on channel 10 and KWCH on channel 12 for instance. KSNW will probably remain on channel 45 because of all the interference problems on channel 3.

Notice how the valuable spectrum to be auctioned off lies from UHF channels 51 through 69, not the VHF channels 2 through 13 as most people think...

The whole reason for the digital signals was to free up the VHF band for other uses so why would the FCC allow the stations to move their signals back to the VHF band in 2009??

I don't think that was the whole reason, as you state. But in any event, I think you have it wrong on which frequencies are being freed up. I think it's the high end of the UHF spectrum, but I'm not certain about that.

Jeff

Since Friday night, my Cox HD-DVR has been very sloooow changing HD channels (even slower then usual) and I have been getting "Channel Unavailable. Check Back Later" on some of the local HD channels. A reboot did not help. Anyone else with the same problems?

Last week my receiver did something similar and after I tried rebooting it a couple of times it started flashing "dl" and when I called Cox they said that sometimes they do that and brought me a new one. The new one works fine but I lost all the shows I had recorded on the old one. At least they didn't have a problem with switching them out.

Does anybody here have a DirecTV DVR+HD model HR20-100S?

If so can you tune in KPTS-8.1??

I can tune in 8.2 & 8.3 with a 75% signal... and 8.1 is showing a 75% signal but always showing "searching for signal".

My Tosh TV and USDigital/Wal-Mart set top box also show a 75ish signal and turn in 8.1 with no trouble.. (now that I have tweeked by antenna)

--David

TNT will be in HD on Cox starting tomorrow.

TNT will be in HD on Cox starting tomorrow.

Channel #? Will that be all KS markets?

TNT will be in HD on Cox starting tomorrow.

618 in Wichita though my cablecards are not showing a name for the channel.

TNT HD is available in Salina on 618 via Series 3 Tivo (uses two cablecards). No channel name on the channel banner and no guide data.

I'm still not getting guide data for national geographic HD on my S3 either...and I have submitted the data to Tivo via their form several weeks ago. How about you?

Is there anyway to do a channel reset on the S3 Tivo's? I know on some Samsung TV's, when Cox does a channel update, that you have to do a channel scan to pick the channel up. Just an idea.

Just got the data today for both of them.

And to answer your question KScableguy, not really in the same way that a TV handles it. The Tivo can manually tune into the channels as soon as they're made available.

So the minute Cox throws the switch to start transmitting on a channel, I can manually tune to it. If I want to see the channel in the guide (without any guide data) or be able to "surf" to it using the UP and DOWN channel buttons I need to configure the Tivo to "use" those previously skipped channels. Then, once the Tivo company knows about the changes, they'll associate the appropriate guide data with the new channel.

Before the guide info is available, you can see the channels...but it just shows "unknown program" (or something to that effect...I can't remember exactly).

Does anybody here have a DirecTV DVR+HD model HR20-100S?

If so can you tune in KPTS-8.1??

I can tune in 8.2 & 8.3 with a 75% signal... and 8.1 is showing a 75% signal but always showing "searching for signal".

My Tosh TV and USDigital/Wal-Mart set top box also show a 75ish signal and turn in 8.1 with no trouble.. (now that I have tweeked by antenna)

--David

DirecTV sent a software update to most HD+DVR receivers on 05/24/07 and now I can receive 8.1

--David

Is there anyway to do a channel reset on the S3 Tivo's? I know on some Samsung TV's, when Cox does a channel update, that you have to do a channel scan to pick the channel up. Just an idea.

Go to the channel set-up screen and click enter on the new channel numbers. This will make them appear in your guide. However they still will be show as "To be Announced" rather than as TNT HD or Nat'l Geo. HD until Cox officially adds them to their lineup.

Also, there will not be any program data shown in the program guide. If your want to record from those channels, you can do it as a manual recording by date & time.

Hello, new to these boards, quite glad I came across them, good information here and nice to see a thread focused just on Wichita.

I currently have two HDTVs and I've been going with OTA for now. I'm going to purchase a Series 3 Tivo which will pick up those OTA channels, but if I do so choose to go with Cox's HD Service, I know I'll need a cable card. Found out today that it's $1.99 a month for rental or $39.99 for purchase. That also includes a $39.99 installation fee. How hard could it be to install one of these?! Anyway, they told me they would need to know information about my television before I could order the card. Which seems odd to me, because the Cable Card would be inserted in to my Series 3 Tivo, not the HDTV. Can someone clear this up for me? Does Cox really need to know about my HDTVs make and model? I really have no problem giving them that information, I'm just concerned the wrong steps would be taken and then the card wouldn't work when it was plugged in to my Tivo box.

Anyway, they told me they would need to know information about my television before I could order the card. Which seems odd to me, because the Cable Card would be inserted in to my Series 3 Tivo, not the HDTV. Can someone clear this up for me? Does Cox really need to know about my HDTVs make and model? I really have no problem giving them that information, I'm just concerned the wrong steps would be taken and then the card wouldn't work when it was plugged in to my Tivo box.

Just tell them about your Tivo, your TV really won't matter to them. Let us know how it goes!

I'm slowly gathering information, I don't make any purchase without doing my research first and I think I'm pretty close to being confident enough about what I'll need to go ahead and buy the Series 3 Tivo. I have a feeling I'm going to have a lot of fun with Cox on this.

Once I get the Tivo, I'm going to call Cox and order the Cable Cards (believe I need two of them) and based on another thread I read on these forums it may be a series of hassles to get Cox to set it up correctly the first time. Now I'm wondering if I should just rent the cards or if I should go ahead and buy them at $40 each.

Hello, new to these boards, quite glad I came across them, good information here and nice to see a thread focused just on Wichita.

I currently have two HDTVs and I've been going with OTA for now. I'm going to purchase a Series 3 Tivo which will pick up those OTA channels, but if I do so choose to go with Cox's HD Service, I know I'll need a cable card. Found out today that it's $1.99 a month for rental or $39.99 for purchase. That also includes a $39.99 installation fee. How hard could it be to install one of these?! Anyway, they told me they would need to know information about my television before I could order the card. Which seems odd to me, because the Cable Card would be inserted in to my Series 3 Tivo, not the HDTV. Can someone clear this up for me? Does Cox really need to know about my HDTVs make and model? I really have no problem giving them that information, I'm just concerned the wrong steps would be taken and then the card wouldn't work when it was plugged in to my Tivo box.

I have had a Tivo Series 3 since they came out last fall. The best source of Tivo info is on the Tivo Community forum (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=51) for the Series 3.

Cox does not need any info on your TV. The CSR you spoke to was obviously unfamiliar with the Tivo Series 3. Interesting you were given the purchase option as this is the fist I have heard of that.

Thanks for the link, I'm already a member on the Tivo Community Forum and posed the same question there, but it was nice to come across this forum also. At times, the information there can be buried and difficult to find!

I called Cox back and got another tech, someone who seemed to be aware of the Tivo community! :) Well, he did mention there is no purchase option for the Cable Cards, they are on a lease basis only.

I called Cox back and got another tech, someone who seemed to be aware of the Tivo community! :) Well, he did mention there is no purchase option for the Cable Cards, they are on a lease basis only.


Ya, no way to buy a cable card.

How hard to install? Let's see, you need to make sure the cable signal to your TiVo is the correct range for the digital signal to work. No way you can check that on your own. Second, you need to find the correct information to pair the cards up with MTC so the cards work and you get your channels. Not hard to find the information, but easy to miss read the numbers, and not know what the person is asking for on the other end of the phone if you not use to reading the information.

Trust me, I know the 39.99 seems alot to pay for an install, but the problems that TV makers, TiVo, and Cable operators are having to get everything to work together, it's well worth the price.

Now that is a much better explanation than I received from the phone call I made to Cox earlier today, thanks for the information!!

Now that is a much better explanation than I received from the phone call I made to Cox earlier today, thanks for the information!!


Your welcome......

Well, my Series 3 HD Tivo arrived today and it's setup. I called Cox to order the Cable Cards and schedule for someone to come out and install them. It won't happen until next Wednesday (which just sounds crazy to me, might call back and recheck on that).

Now for the really insane part. I was told today it would cost $49.95 times 2 for them to come out and install the cards. Holy Cow, $100 for a 30 minute service call. I'm not kidding when I say this, but that made me want to tell Cox to go jump off a bridge and get my HD services another way. But, after talking with them and convincing them it was worth it for them to only charge me $49.95 once, they finally agreed. Wow, I'm still in shock over them wanting to charge me $100 for them to come out and install the two cards. Is this normal??

It is $49.95 per card. Not per device, but per card. Just like it's when buying tires, they charge you per tire, not per car.

Cox just had a big special on cable, internet and phone, so installs are about 4 to 10 days out.

Is anyone using one of these Antenna's? Philips PHDTV1 Digital HDTV-UHF Indoor Antenna

Here's a link: http://www.amazon.com/Philips-PHDTV1-Digital-HDTV-UHF-Antenna/dp/B0007XDI54

I'm curious if anyone in the Wichita area is using this and how they like it! This looks like a really simple and inexpensive solution for getting OTA HD Channels.

Ya, no way to buy a cable card.

How hard to install? Let's see, you need to make sure the cable signal to your TiVo is the correct range for the digital signal to work. No way you can check that on your own. Second, you need to find the correct information to pair the cards up with MTC so the cards work and you get your channels. Not hard to find the information, but easy to miss read the numbers, and not know what the person is asking for on the other end of the phone if you not use to reading the information.

Trust me, I know the 39.99 seems alot to pay for an install, but the problems that TV makers, TiVo, and Cable operators are having to get everything to work together, it's well worth the price.
Sorry KScableguy, but I strongly disagree with you on this. This should be as simple as installing a cable modem, but Cox is going out of their way to discourage CableCARD use.

Cox should provide the option to ship the CableCARD(s) directly to the customer for a self-install. They could still keep the option of a professional install for anyone who wants it.

Checking the signal? I bet most people have a good enough signal to get digital cable. Anyone that experiences pixelation problems could then call Cox for a service call. If the tech finds a problem outside the home, Cox pays for the trip. If the problem is inside the home, the home owner pays for the trip (and any work done).

Finding the correct numbers to pair the card? Include a picture of what to look for, just like with a cable modem. If the user still can't figure it out, then send out a tech for the professional install.

It is $49.95 per card. Not per device, but per card. Just like it's when buying tires, they charge you per tire, not per car.

Cox just had a big special on cable, internet and phone, so installs are about 4 to 10 days out.
There is no need for Cox to charge as much as they do for such a simple install, especially when the user is getting two cards at once. Once the first card is installed, I doubt it will take more than 5 minutes for the tech to install the second. $50 for 5 min. of work is highway robbery.

The main reason for charging $50 per install is to discourage users from getting a CableCARD at all. Cable companies hate the CableCARD for one main reason:

No two-way communication, which includes video-on-demand. This means less money going to Cox. It would also hinder Cox's ability to move to switched video (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switched_Video), which would hurt them in the race for more HD channels.

It looks to me that Cox - and every other cable company out there - wants CableCARDs to go away as quickly as possible, and they're doing everything in their power to make that happen.

Well said WillieC!

It is $49.95 per card. Not per device, but per card. Just like it's when buying tires, they charge you per tire, not per car.

Cox just had a big special on cable, internet and phone, so installs are about 4 to 10 days out.

I think the thing that disturbs me the most about this statement is that if the charge is $49.95 per card, it sure does sound like I'm PURCHASING the cards, not paying for a service call. $100 for one service call (two CableCARDS) is just like what WillieC said, highway robbery.

To echo above comments... $49.95/card is highway robbery. When they came out they had me plug the cards in because my TiVo was "unknown" and then proceeded to call in and pair the cards. Simple reading of numbers over the phone. They did no signal checks or anything else since I'm in a new development and have excellent signal. Of course they still told the CSR the brand and model of the TV, which doesn't matter at all with a TiVo.

If you think the initial installation cost is bad... when I swapped out Series 3 units back in February I called COX to pair the cards again. Well the CSR's on the phone can't do that so they told me it would be a service call. The guy came out and read verbatim to his CSR what I had written down on a piece of paper. Card number, old value, new value... etc. It took 4 minutes and was something I could have done over the phone if they would let us talk to the correct people.

But the kicker... they charged me for the service call.

I was livid. I called and bitched them out over the phone about how it was something I was capable of doing (reading numbers to them) but they were not setup to allow that and required the service call. They refunded the charge since I was not informed of it when it was setup. <sigh> I hope to hell I don't have to do that again.

Once the cards are setup and working though... excellent service and quality... I love that the cards are available for the Series 3 so I can enjoy HD on my time.

All-in-all I love the Series 3 but yeah, I think cable companies want the things to die by implementing fees all over and bells and hoops to discourage their use.

I started a thread on this on the Tivo Community Boards at the same time I complained here about the cost and it appears that Cox charges as low as $15 for one service call (not per card) to as much as $70 per card, depending on the area of the US you are in. It's baffling, in my opinion!

? Is the 'CW' KSCW 33-1 digital off the air ?

Has anyone experience any problems with TNT's HD channel? I've noticed that the reception for it is horrible at times. Other times, it's just fine. Couldn't watch a movie on it at all the other day, had to switch to the non-HD TNT Channel.

Cox will be adding A&E HD to their line-up soon.

Cox will be adding A&E HD to their line-up soon.

Do you have the channel number?

As said, it will be added soon..so no channel number yet.

Cox will be adding A&E HD to their line-up soon.

Thanks KScableguy for the news. Always good to hear that another HD channel is being added. Any idea how many more HD channels Cox has the capacity to add to the current system in Wichita ?

Not much more until they are done with their system re-build, which will be finished in November. Then they will have more than enough bandwidth to add just as many as Dish.

Not much more until they are done with their system re-build, which will be finished in November. Then they will have more than enough bandwidth to add just as many as Dish.
Thanks for the update, KScableguy.

Do you know how Cox is getting the room for more HD channels? Are they removing more analog channels or moving to a switched digital video system?

What is the problem when the audio is delayed compared to the picture? Anyway very annoying. I have the COX DVR DCT6412 III Motorola. Seems to be only on TNT HD.

Anything I can do, or just call Cox?

What is the problem when the audio is delayed compared to the picture? Anyway very annoying. I have the COX DVR DCT6412 III Motorola. Seems to be only on TNT HD.

Anything I can do, or just call Cox?


I think its more of a TNT problem then a Cox problem....Some other broadcasters are having this issue (HGTV, Food, A&E).

Thanks for the update, KScableguy.

Do you know how Cox is getting the room for more HD channels? Are they removing more analog channels or moving to a switched digital video system?

Doing a system re-build. Going from 700 something Mhz system to a 1,000Mhz system.