Buffalo, NY - HDTV [Text View] - Page 11

eengert

11-07-06, 04:50 PM

If CW ceases to be broadcast on 4.3, then I'll have two choices with the slight hope for a third...

1) Aim a second antenna to pickup 23.1 and combine it with my other antenna feed with a frequency filter. (probably not gonna happen just to get GG in HD for my wife, who doesn't care that much about HD)
OR
2) Switch the SP to record from the SD version of CW 23 coming from the satellite.
OR POSSIBLY
3) Hope that CW 23 is one of the MPEG4 HD locals delivered by DirecTV (doubtful), scheduled for launch in Buffalo market by end of this year. (I'm having D*'s HR20 MPEG4 HD-DVR installed this week since the HR10 DTivo can't decode MPEG4).

I guess we'll just have to wait a week or so to find for sure what, if anything, will be on 4.3 and 23.3.

Is it proper forum etiquette to quote yourself?! :D My wife watches CW and I don't. Since CW came into existence on WNLO23, I've been unable to pull in 23.1 OTA (was getting signal around 20 on my HDTivo tuner). As has been discussed, they've been broadcasting the SD feed on 4.3 which I do get, so I've been recording Gilmore Girls for her from 4.3 since it's at least a digital channel, which looks slightly better than the true SD feed on 23. This afternoon she calls me at work and says that when she tunes to 4.3 to watch an afternoon program on CW, all she sees is the radar. So I have her check 23.1 and sure enough it's coming in. I got home and checked the signal strength and it's steady around 71-75, which is good enough on my HDTivo to have no drops. Just wondering if something has changed at the station recently that anyone knows of? Were they not broadcasting on 23.1 since the switchover to CW or at least not at full power or something? Anyway, assuming the signal holds, she should be watching GG in HD tonight.

warit

11-07-06, 05:08 PM

Just turned on my receiver this the evening. Looks like 4.3 is gone.

jimdoo

11-07-06, 05:17 PM

Is it proper forum etiquette to quote yourself?! :D My wife watches CW and I don't. Since CW came into existence on WNLO23, I've been unable to pull in 23.1 OTA (was getting signal around 20 on my HDTivo tuner).

I too am unable to get a good signal on 23.1 and I live less than 3 miles from GI. I can't understand why either. I get a good signal on Fox and Pbs most all the time and they are all on GI??

cwoody222

11-07-06, 06:17 PM

warit

11-07-06, 09:55 PM

I too am unable to get a good signal on 23.1 and I live less than 3 miles from GI. I can't understand why either. I get a good signal on Fox and Pbs most all the time and they are all on GI??
Is it possible that the signal is "too strong" ? I too have problem with 23 and most of the time I need to switch to a smaller indoor antenna in order to get a good lock on the signal.

BTW, HD shows on 23 came out really nice though.

eengert

11-07-06, 10:10 PM

Is it possible that the signal is "too strong" ? I too have problem with 23 and most of the time I need to switch to a smaller indoor antenna in order to get a good lock on the signal.

BTW, HD shows on 23 came out really nice though.

Well, after all that, Gilmore Girls was not broadcast in HD! What's the deal with that? It showed in the guide as being HD, but it was in 4:3 format. Is that a station error is that not a show that CW broadcasts in HD format? Anyone know?

cwoody222

11-07-06, 10:32 PM

Station error :(

canada_habs2004

11-08-06, 12:46 AM

I too am unable to get a good signal on 23.1 and I live less than 3 miles from GI. I can't understand why either. I get a good signal on Fox and Pbs most all the time and they are all on GI??

jimdoo, there is no doubt in my mind, you are experiencing OVERLOAD.

WNLO transmits at 1000kW when you are only 3 miles from GI, you are going to receieve an EXTREMELY strong signal.

you need little connectors called altenators, which balance out your signal to remove overload.

a good way to test for overload is the send your antenna cable through as many splitters as possible, and see if this increases the signal.

videobruce

11-08-06, 07:19 AM

Is it possible that the signal is "too strong" Only if you have a amp in line. Sounds as excessive multipath. Where in Amherst are you?

eengert

11-08-06, 09:13 AM

jimdoo, there is no doubt in my mind, you are experiencing OVERLOAD.

WNLO transmits at 1000kW when you are only 3 miles from GI, you are going to receieve an EXTREMELY strong signal.

you need little connectors called altenators, which balance out your signal to remove overload.

a good way to test for overload is the send your antenna cable through as many splitters as possible, and see if this increases the signal.

I think you meant attenuator. These decrease the strength of an excessively strong signal, which some tuners don't handle too well.

eengert

11-08-06, 10:07 AM

Station error :(

I hope so. I sent an email to engineering and one to programming letting them know of the problem and asking for a response. It boggles my mind that with all the technology we have that getting a program broadcast in HD comes down to someone at the station flipping a switch at the right time. :eek: But that being the case, I would expect stations to take this very seriously and implement methods to ensure this happening 99% of the time at least, since HD is now a very important component of TV viewership. As it is, many times the stations (all of them are guilty) fail to flip the switch and a program will be in SD for several minutes or longer before they get it right. It's very frustrating and could so easily be avoided.

An update on my signal strength: I'm not exactly sure how to explain it, but now I'm getting 23.1 in the mid 80's. I don't know if I inadvertently changed something about my setup, or if it's weather/season related, or if there was a change at the station but it's loud and clear now. Of course, if the station keeps stepping in it when it comes to broadcasting HD in primetime, it'll be for naught. HD can be such a glorious, yet such a frustrating experience! :mad:

devlynsyde

11-08-06, 10:13 AM

Hrm.. I went to sleep last nite with my OTA in and woke up and none of the channels were registering.. now when I scan Cable and Antenna I'm not picking up any Digital channels. Is there anything that would cause this? (Did my digital tuner crap out?)

canada_habs2004

11-08-06, 10:23 AM

I think you meant attenuator. These decrease the strength of an excessively strong signal, which some tuners don't handle too well.

sorry not 100% at the time i was writing, hence the time of the post.

jimdoo

11-08-06, 11:19 AM

you need little connectors called altenators, which balance out your signal to remove overload.

Can you use attenuators with an indoor antenna?

eengert

11-08-06, 11:22 AM

Can you use attenuators with an indoor antenna?

Sure, but you probably wouldn't want to. It just inserts in the coax cable run. But I doubt any indoor antenna (like a Terk or RadioShack) is going to be pulling in such a strong signal that it requires an attenuator.

jimdoo

11-08-06, 11:25 AM

eengert

11-08-06, 11:45 AM

I'm surprised my CM 4228 on my roof doesnt more reliably get 23.1. It seems to get Fox and PBS quite well usually. And thats off the backside of the antenna as it point North -so I can receive CBC. Should I insert an attenuator in the coax for this antenna to improve signal strength on WNLO? Will it affect my CBC signal?

Thanks

Can't hurt to try and return it if it doesn't work. It will affect all signals coming from that antenna though, so even if it gets you a better signal for WNLO, it could knock out your CBC signal.

devlynsyde

11-08-06, 11:49 AM

re: Time Warner

You do NOT need to get digital cable to get HD cable. My ex (as of now :( ) simply had analog basic 2-13. Then he got the HD package and the HD DVR (I don't think they have an HD box that's not a DVR also).

His bill - including Internet - went to about $80/mo.

But they also included basic cable (13 - 99), I think just because they can't turn on HD without turning on the rest.

He would get ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, DiscoveryHD, HDNet, HDNet Movies, InHD, and a few more.

99% of the good HD stuff we'd watch was on the networks. And they don't offer FOX.

Sorry to hear about the break-up. Their website says digital is required to get HDTV.. do you know if he simply called in for the HD Package through the 1 800 number or did he visit one of the payment locations?

I think my tuner crapped out..

warit

11-08-06, 12:33 PM

Only if you have a amp in line. Sounds as excessive multipath. Where in Amherst are you?
I'm near UB north campus and I'm in the 1st floor apt. When I use cm4221 pointing towards grand island, 29 / 43 come in fine but I have broken/frozen picture on 23. After switchinig to indoor silver sensor, everything works like a charm. I don't use the booster though.

warit

11-08-06, 12:38 PM

Can't hurt to try and return it if it doesn't work. It will affect all signals coming from that antenna though, so even if it gets you a better signal for WNLO, it could knock out your CBC signal.
You might want to look for an adjustable attenuator that it only affects a certain frequency range. Is there such a thing? Just a thought. :)

Indiana627

11-08-06, 02:20 PM

It boggles my mind that with all the technology we have that getting a program broadcast in HD comes down to someone at the station flipping a switch at the right time. :eek:
I couldn't agree more. I've often wondered how literally to take it when I read "oops, they forgot to flip the switch." But I take it more and more literal each time a show is broadcast in SD when I know it should be in HD. Very frustrating.

videobruce

11-09-06, 08:47 AM

You might want to look for an adjustable attenuator that it only affects a certain frequency range. Is there such a thing? Just a thought. :) They are called ' notch traps' or 'notch filters' and they can range from around $40 on up.
The cheapest/easiest way is from Communications & Energy in East Syracuse;

http://www.cefilter.com/products/display_categories.asp?catID=1

Depending on which trap, between $35-$45 per channel.

If you use just an 'pad' (attenuator) it will affect all channels.

videobruce

11-09-06, 08:59 AM

Just came across this article in this months TV Technology; Publication:TVT; Date:Nov 1, 2006; Section:News; Page:12
Last Great Hope for the Airwaves?
A-VSB gets tested for mobile broadcasts

by Robin Berger
LOS ANGELES

Proponents of a new digital TV methodology are gearing up for tests by the Communications Research Centre in Ottawa, Canada, hoping for a nod from the Advanced Television Systems Committee, pending the results.
Advanced-VSB, or A-VSB, is a system-level enhancement to the ATSC’s vestigial side band modulation standard. It claims to improve transmission to receivers under dynamic multipath conditions, including receivers that are moving or otherwise portable.
This claim by consumer electronics giant Samsung and transmitter developer Rohde & Schwarz—which jointly developed the proposed standard and have submitted it to the ATSC for approval—results from three main factors: an SRS (supplemental reference sequence) added to the transmitted signal, a low signal-to-noise turbo (forward error-correction code) stream, and a new single frequency network application tool.

The A-VSB single frequency network uses different techniques than the current ATSC’s A/110 standard to synchronize the exciters, according to Mike Simon, advanced technologies manager for the broadcast division of Rohde & Schwarz.
CRC’s lab testing was expected to begin the third week of October and last for two to three weeks, Simon said. If all goes well, field tests will follow.

SINCLAIR BACKS A-VSB
Sinclair Broadcasting is extremely interested in A-VSB because “it is the only proposal out that will enable mobile service reception to small portable devices, as well as larger ones,” like automobiles, said Nat Ostroff, vice president of advanced technologies for Sinclair Broadcast Group. Ostroff is also president and chairman of transmitter maker Acrodyne Industries.
“Once it becomes a standard, [broadcasters] can begin to address what [they] can do as local providers of information, news, sports, weather, traffic… to automobiles, cell phones, iPods, laptop computers, small screen TV sets running at the ball park or on batteries on your lap,” Ostroff said
This second market is a crucial supplement to the traditional one, which is currently 85 percent controlled by cable and satellite providers, he said.
“It’s the last great hope for free, overthe-air broadcast,” Ostroff said. “Without this kind of wireless connection to your audience, one begins to argue, why even broadcast your signal? You might as well just deliver it with fiber—you don’t need an FCC license to be a cable and satellite programmer.”

Sinclair has been behind mobile broadcasts ever since the digital TV initiative got under way. Ostroff himself gained the spotlight at NAB2000, wielding a portable Nokia MediaScreen presentation to argue for adding COFDM to the DTV transmission standard.
Since then, Sinclair tested the LG Electronics enhanced-VSB amendment, which added forward error-correction coding layers. It was adopted by ATSC in 2004, but has not generatedmuch enthusiasm.
“E-VSB did not enable portable services—it marginally improves the reception of the signal in the traditional setting,” Ostroff said.
In early September, A-VSB was tested at a Sinclair Broadcasting station in Buffalo, N.Y. in what was described by Ostroff as a “sanity check” before the ATSC tests.
The WUTV tower’s signal ran through one of Sinclair’s low-power transmitters, a Rohde & Schwarz 5 kW NV5400. The transmitter’s exciter was replaced with the A-VSB prototype. Samsung provided the A-VSB prototype receiver and omnidirectional and monopole antennas.
“An A-VSB receiver was mounted in a van that was driven all over the coverage area of the station at speeds in excess of 60 miles per hour. Simple antennas were used for reception in the vehicle,” Ostroff said. “Reception was virtually perfect.”

John Godfrey, vice president of government and public affairs for Samsung Information Systems America said his company conducted separate tests with omnidirectional antennas on a van roof and monopoles inside a van.
“The omnidirectional antennas performed better because they were outside the van... and are better antennas, but both types of antennas worked,” he said. “We tested both single- and dualantenna performance. The reason for using pairs of antennas is that two antennas spacially separated are better than one—you get ‘diversity’ in reception, for a modest 3dB signal-to-noise improvement.”
If the A-VSB enhancement is adopted, greenlighting mobile services, Ostroff believes broadcasters’ major investment will be in creating content and promoting the new services. He thought technology costs would be relatively small.
“The cost of modifying your television transmitter to transmit A-VSB is practically nothing in the larger scheme of things,” he said.
Single-frequency repeaters needed for the network aren’t on the drawing board yet, but Ostroff believed the small, solid-state, low power, 5 W kind would do.
“If you’ve got a million dollar investment in a transmitter, and somebody said, ‘for another $100,000 you can put 10 repeaters around the marketplace to enable this business model,’ to me it would be a no-brainer,” he said.
Ostroff envisioned two types of business models for mobile services: National services offered by aggregators like QualComm and Verizon and, on-demand, community-oriented programming, video and data from local broadcasters to receivers that have memory.
“There’s no reason why a car sitting in your garage could not receive whatever you’re interested in—movie listings, news, updates, traffic—so the next morning, it’s delivered by the broadcaster to the car by broadband,” Ostroff said. “We could sell our spectrum to automobile dealers and manufacturers—what makes us different from the QualComms and Verizons is that we’re local.”
He estimated acceptance in “several years,” though, he said, if the American public latched on to it like they took to iPods, mobile services “could take off like a rocket.”

CURRENT REALITY
ATSC President Mark Richer says the current work plan calls for a working draft of the standard to be completed sometime in the spring and that
A-VSB “could be elevated to candidate standard sometime in early summer.
“A number of companies are involved in the analysis work,” said Richer, declining elaboration. At press time, he said there were “no other technologies under formal consideration for enhanced transmission.”
A-VSB is under consideration by the specialist group on transmission (TSG/S9). Rohde & Schwarz’s Smith
said he was on the TSG/S9 committee for three years when he read about Samsung’s SRS technology. The two companies joined forces about a year and a half ago, Smith said.
Testing plans were devised by a TSG/S9 ad hoc group, S9-5, chaired by Victor Tawil, senior vice president of the Association for Maximum Service Television. Test costs were picked up by the proponents.

nashou66

11-09-06, 09:56 AM

Does any one know the number you have to put in, to look for cbc, in a dish network reciever for the over the air stations? Hdtv or analog.

cwoody222

11-09-06, 10:19 AM

Sorry to hear about the break-up. Their website says digital is required to get HDTV.. do you know if he simply called in for the HD Package through the 1 800 number or did he visit one of the payment locations?

I think my tuner crapped out..

I believe he just called.

He got the HD back during the summer. So if digital is required, it's new.

He also just moved so he had to have them re-install at the new apartment. There was no problem keeping the exact same package.

He never asked for 13-99 either. He just first ordered 2-13 and then a few weeks later, ordered HD. 13-99 was a surprise. We thought it may have been a mistake that was would be corrected when he moved, but it remained the same.

cwoody222

11-09-06, 10:23 AM

I hope so. I sent an email to engineering and one to programming letting them know of the problem and asking for a response. It boggles my mind that with all the technology we have that getting a program broadcast in HD comes down to someone at the station flipping a switch at the right time. :eek: But that being the case, I would expect stations to take this very seriously and implement methods to ensure this happening 99% of the time at least, since HD is now a very important component of TV viewership. As it is, many times the stations (all of them are guilty) fail to flip the switch and a program will be in SD for several minutes or longer before they get it right. It's very frustrating and could so easily be avoided.

I keep the engineering emails for 2, 4, and 7 (never found them for 29 or 23) handy and email them when they forget to flip to HD. Almost every time, HD is turned on within 10-15 minutes ;)

I also email the station manager every time they forget but I don't find out until later. Not a crazy, bitchy email, just something letting them know that they screwed up and I noticed.

Can't hurt to remind them that we really are out here, watching! :)

videobruce

11-09-06, 10:24 AM

CBC is digital channel 20.1 which usually gets re-mapped to 5.1.
As far as satellite, I doubt it is there as it is a Canadian station.

eengert

11-09-06, 10:25 AM

I keep the engineering emails for 2, 4, and 7 (never found them for 29 or 23) handy and email them when they forget to flip to HD. Almost every time, HD is turned on within 10-15 minutes ;)

I also email the station manager every time they forget but I don't find out until later. Not a crazy, bitchy email, just something letting them know that they screwed up and I noticed.

Can't hurt to remind them that we really are out here, watching! :)

FYI, WNLO23 has the same email as WIVB4, their parent station. Haven't received a response yet.

Indiana627

11-09-06, 12:50 PM

They are called ' notch traps' or 'notch filters' and they can range from around $40 on up.
The cheapest/easiest way is from Communications & Energy in East Syracuse
Fox comes in too strong for my Directv HR10-250's tuners (although it comes in fine on my Sony E50A10's tuner). Which of the products on their site would I need to decrease the signal so that hopefully Fox would come in on my Tivo?

videobruce

11-09-06, 01:19 PM

Best to call and describe the situation and what you want to do. They have too many types.

dsspredator

11-11-06, 10:17 AM

Does any one know the number you have to put in, to look for cbc, in a dish network reciever for the over the air stations? Hdtv or analog.

The OTA channel is 20-1 for CBC and 40-1 for CTV (digital) and 5 and 9 for analog.

daredevil23

11-12-06, 02:15 PM

I had to do a rescan of channels as most digitals were missing, then I went and checked all the channels, and I found that PBS-HD 43.1 reports on my FusionHDTV as 720P . :confused:

Can anyone confirm with their equipment.

flyngaudio

11-12-06, 06:19 PM

I'm not sure when PBS switched if they did. Could it be a pisp glitch? The adelphia sa8300 tuner along with the qam and atsc tuner in my sony television all show pbs in 720p.

canada_habs2004

11-12-06, 07:12 PM

no WNED has been 720p for almost a week now. It's another one of their attemps to get rid of that smearing/motion blurring in their picture due to compression.

jimdoo

11-12-06, 08:51 PM

canada_habs2004

11-12-06, 10:39 PM

everybody hate chris, which aired before Smallville was in HD.

warit

11-13-06, 12:20 AM

I don't usually watch CW on a regular basis but I've seen veronica mars in HD last week :)

dcorreia

11-13-06, 01:12 AM

I don't usually watch CW on a regular basis but I've seen veronica mars in HD last week :)

Speaking of VM, when I was watching it last week, along with any other show on that channel since the switch to 23-1, but, is it me or is the sound on that channel off by a few milliseconds?

eengert

11-13-06, 09:06 AM

WNLO -HD?

Wow, we finally have the CW in HD and, WNLO broadcasts in HD when they feel like it?
Was any of Smallville in HD tonight? Has there been more than 3-4 shows broadcast in HD since the launch?

They failed to broadcast Gilmore Girls in HD last week and I sent 2 emails to the station and got absolutely no response. Very poor. It's the first time I've sent an email to a station and not gotten at least a form response. Disappointing.

devlynsyde

11-13-06, 10:26 AM

Does Amazing Race not get broadcast in HDTV? Was the second time it wasn't in HDTV since I bought my TV :(

devlynsyde

11-13-06, 10:27 AM

jimdoo

11-13-06, 10:45 AM

jimdoo-WNYO's STL license was approved. Actually, this is the same microwave path that is currently being used for both WUTV's analog and digital. However that's not what is preventing WNYO-DT from being on the air. The newly installed transmission line feeding the antenna developed a problem and needs to be taken apart, cleaned out and then reassembled on the tower. It's 1000' of line made up of 20' sections. This is a major undertaking and will take at least a week to complete. MyTV HD on WNYO isn't dead, it's just on hiatus for a while. Work is moving ahead as quickly as possible to get this resolved.

Can we count on MyTv Buffalo by Friday or will it be more like after turkey day?

canada_habs2004

11-13-06, 10:48 AM

The Amazing Race has never been in HD unfortanately.

don't expect to always get instant replies from TV stations. I sent an email to WKBW asking if Jeopardy would be in HD, back in September, and they just replied to me last week.

devlynsyde

11-13-06, 10:57 AM

eengert

11-13-06, 11:42 AM

That sucks.. its a beautiful show at times with the nature & scenery, foreign lands, etc.

They use so many cameras for that show that I assume it is cost prohibitive to invest in that many HD cameras.

devlynsyde

11-13-06, 06:10 PM

They use so many cameras for that show that I assume it is cost prohibitive to invest in that many HD cameras.

... good point. :P

rob50312

11-13-06, 08:06 PM

Speaking of VM, when I was watching it last week, along with any other show on that channel since the switch to 23-1, but, is it me or is the sound on that channel off by a few milliseconds?
Yes the sound was out of sink on WNLO-dt.Had too switch to their analog signal as this really annoyed me.The sound sink problems crops up alot with ASTC broadcasting.

flyngaudio

11-13-06, 11:05 PM

no WNED has been 720p for almost a week now. It's another one of their attemps to get rid of that smearing/motion blurring in their picture due to compression.

I'm still kinda new at this. Can we assume that PBS has run out of bandwith?

canada_habs2004

11-14-06, 12:27 AM

its not really that they are running out of bandwidth, it's that there is a major problem with their PQ and signal (not only OTA, but with a bunch of cable companies in Canada as well)

so they are desperately trying many things to get their PQ fixed.

videobruce

11-14-06, 08:20 PM

For the conveinance of another member this is a telephoto shot (from 7 miles away) of the tops of WNEDs' & WUTV's towers.
These pics were taken 1 1/2 years ago and are out of date because of the additional antenna on WUTVs' tower

Looking for a 'who's on first' for each tower;

jimdoo

11-14-06, 09:02 PM

videobruce,

where exactly is the antenna for wnlo? Wikipedia states it's transmitter is at the same address as wned. I see two antennas on fox's tower -just one on wned's tower?

videobruce

11-15-06, 08:08 AM

I'm waiting for the reply. Hard to keep track of musical broadcast stations in this market. :(

Ch 23 (to use numbers) was WNEDs' 2nd station until it was sold (?) to WIVB as WNLO (I think). That is still on WNEDs' tower. With the addition of these digital stations and that waste of bandwidth low power POS (ch 15) addition (also on WNEDs' tower), the picture got confusing especially since I haven't really followed it closely. If you look closely, there is a 2nd antenna below the main antenna. That's 23s' and I assume ch 32s' antenna (through a combiner). Please note, I assume this, since trying to talk to anyone over at WNED is next to impossible.

WUTVs' tower ('T' bar arrangement) does have 3 TV antennas (14, 34 & 29) and some 2-way. One will be moved down on the tower when the dust settles and used as a spare. Their analog will be sold in two years (probably the same for all the other stations).

Buyers market for VHF (and some UHF) TV xmitters/antennas in 2 years. ;)

(I hope I got that straight) :cool:

dcorreia

11-15-06, 09:34 PM

Yes the sound was out of sink on WNLO-dt.Had too switch to their analog signal as this really annoyed me.The sound sink problems crops up alot with ASTC broadcasting.

Still seems to be continuing. Earlier, during top model when I turned to it for a second, it sounded a little staticy, but now during one tree hill, im noticing another issue, audio sounds clear but now is randomly messing up, sounding like a cd is skipping for a few 2 seconds, at least its in HD now. Anyone have contact with wnlo-dt, are they aware of the issues?

wnyfox

11-15-06, 10:40 PM

Can we count on MyTv Buffalo by Friday or will it be more like after turkey day?

After Turkey day...

dsspredator

11-16-06, 11:46 AM

After Turkey day...

Do you work for WUTV/WNYO?

Any chance of seeing that nice new SD logo on 29-1 instead of that ugly black one?

shodo

11-16-06, 01:02 PM

eengert

11-16-06, 01:11 PM

I hope this is the correct forum for this type of question. This is my first post. I just purchased my first HDTV yesterday. I am currently using a 20 year old inexpensive antenna for my standard definition TV. The antenna will pick up PBS, FOX and CW on high definition but not ABC, CBS or NBC. Antennaweborg had the following results (I wasn't sure but clicked "yes" for interference):

* yellow - uhf WNED-DT 43.1 PBS BUFFALO NY 287° 8.5 43
* yellow - uhf WNLO-DT 23.1 CW BUFFALO NY 287° 8.5 32
red - uhf WNLO 23 CW BUFFALO NY 287° 8.5 23
red - uhf WNED 17 PBS BUFFALO NY 287° 8.5 17
red - uhf WUTV 29 FOX BUFFALO NY 284° 8.9 29
* blue - uhf WUTV-DT 29.1 FOX BUFFALO NY 284° 8.9 14
blue - vhf WGRZ 2 NBC BUFFALO NY 165° 22.7 2
blue - vhf WIVB 4 CBS BUFFALO NY 176° 25.5 4
violet - vhf WKBW 7 ABC BUFFALO NY 176° 27.0 7
violet - vhf WROC 8 CBS ROCHESTER NY 92° 59.5 8

Any suggestion on the type of antenna? I prefer indoors but I can replace the old rooftop antenna if necessary.
Also, the HDTV has two coax inputs (one for cable/tv and another for HD) do we use two separate antennas to pick up both SD and HD? thanks for your input.

I live in OP (closer to WIVB, WGRZ, and WKBW towers) but I use the lacrosse http://www.antennasdirect.com/lacrosse.html amplified antenna with great results. It gets outstanding reviews and is the best I've owned (have owned about 5). I used to live in Snyder/Amherst but didn't own the lacrosse until after I moved this summer. The lacrosse not only does a great job picking up HD transmissions, but it is bi-directional, which you need anywhere between GI and OP. Just to quantify my results, I pull in the 3 majors from the south at a solid and consistent 95 strength. I get WUTV from Grand Island from the back of the lacrosse at 68-70. From Amherst you can probably expect 85+ for the 3 southern majors and 85+ for WUTV. I'm pretty sure you'll be able to get WNLO (CW23) in the 70's at least too.

I would recommend the lacrosse amplified ($149) and you can always return it if it doesn't work. I have mine mounted on a fence post about 6' off the ground. Would probably do even better on a roof. You should aim the front SSE to pick up the 3 majors, and let the northern stations (fox, cw, etc.) come in the backside of the lacrosse. Give it a try and let us know.

As for your tv inputs, one is exclusively for cable. You won't be using that one. You just feed the coax from your antenna into the ANT/HD input. That input is for OTA (both SD and HD).

Indiana627

11-16-06, 04:26 PM

Any suggestion on the type of antenna? I prefer indoors but I can replace the old rooftop antenna if necessary.
Also, the HDTV has two coax inputs (one for cable/tv and another for HD) do we use two separate antennas to pick up both SD and HD? thanks for your input.
I use this one (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=3394455&st=antenna&lp=1&type=product&cp=2&id=1051384457031) and get great results. I live in Wheatfield so I'm even further from the south town towers than you and get 2, 4 and 7 great as well as 23, 29, 17 and 49.

videobruce

11-16-06, 07:01 PM

While antennaweb is very popular, there are far better sources without the 3rd grade color charts. Take a look at this list using City Hall as the reference;
http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=42%2E88&longitude=%2D78%2E8770&magnetic_north=9&range=90&sort=distance&show_expired=False&show_construction=False&show_analog=True&show_low_power=True&action=Show+Stations

The 'how to' is here. Unlike that other site it includes Canada;
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7625830&&#post7625830

Regarding antennas, take a look here. For around 1/4 the price of that amplified box there is the SL-4BT ;
http://www.wade-antenna.com/Wade/UHF.htm

masterdigital

11-16-06, 07:51 PM

MDK

11-16-06, 10:34 PM

Hey, this is a great site! I've attached a better photo atop the WUTV tower on Grand Island, NY. ( I hope I did it right, first time...ya know) This pix is less than a month old. It was taken at the 950' level, just under the T-Bar. I had a tower crew working on WNYO antenna take this for me. By the way, WNYO DT should be up and at full power by Turkey Day! :cool:

Welcome to the forum, masterdigital. Great 1st post! It's good to hear that another digital station will be up and running again.

shodo

11-16-06, 10:54 PM

warit

11-16-06, 11:16 PM

[QUOTE=videobruce]
Regarding antennas, take a look here. For around 1/4 the price of that amplified box there is the SL-4BT ;
If an UHF antenna only receives channels 14-83, does that mean it will not pick up ABC, NBC, and CBS (channels 7, 2, and 4)?
You'll be fine with UHF antenna. The actual frequency for Ch 7 digital is 38, for Ch 4 is 39, and for Ch 2 is 33. They are all UHF.

acegolfer

11-17-06, 12:07 AM

canada_habs2004

11-17-06, 12:27 AM

Hey, this is a great site! I've attached a better photo atop the WUTV tower on Grand Island, NY. ( I hope I did it right, first time...ya know) This pix is less than a month old. It was taken at the 950' level, just under the T-Bar. I had a tower crew working on WNYO antenna take this for me. By the way, WNYO DT should be up and at full power by Turkey Day! :cool:

that was a sick pic u posted. u wouldn't have more pics from up there would you. A pic in the direction of Niagara falls would be so cool. Also when you say 'should be up' concerning WNYO, is that a fact? because we've been told a lot of stuff about WNYO and it's never ended up being true.

videobruce

11-17-06, 07:19 AM

If an UHF antenna only receives channels 14-83, does that mean it will not pick up ABC, NBC, and CBS (channels 7, 2, and 4)? Here is the perfect example why I don't like this silly re-numbering FCC/NAB mandated plan. In most markets VHF will be dead in just over 2 years. Your and their antennas (and transmitters) will be somewhat worthless (at least in those markets).

masterdigital; Any shots looking southeast??

masterdigital

11-17-06, 11:03 AM

Shodo, the guys are right. Most stations (with a few minor exceptions in some markets using high band VHF) will be UHF. So your UHF antenna should work fine. And for those markets using VHF, you'll be fine with an old Channel Master antenna. I bought a CHANNEL MASTER 4228, which is an 8-bay high gain panel antenna for about $56, and, with the rotor, I get everyone great. (Even Rochester, Syracuse and some Canadian stations!) We don't have any VHF digital stations in this part of NY to worry about anything but a UHF antenna. The important thing to remember is not to get suckered into the antenna by having HDTV attached to it. There is really no such thing as an "HDTV Antenna". Any antenna with the ability to receive a UHF signal adequately, will receive HDTV just fine. That is a function of your receiver. Even the 1970 model antennas we used for broadcast stations before we were spoiled by cable will be adequate. The antenna receives the RF channel, it doesn't care about anything else. Whatever is modulated within the spectrum, only the receiver cares about that.

I agree with VideoBruce, the renumbering scheme is handy now for the "technically challenged", but will be worthless after February 18, 2009 when all analog channels go away for good. It's there for the "challenged" and the old news stations who have their news branded. NAB had a hand in that decision.

videobruce

11-17-06, 12:39 PM

NAB had a hand in that decision. Too big of a hand. :mad:

Indiana627

11-17-06, 12:48 PM

the renumbering scheme is handy now for the "technically challenged", but will be worthless after February 18, 2009 when all analog channels go away for good.
Not if the new Congress has anything to say about it.
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/television/news/e3iS%2FOSuQta4wXd2%2FJxzrCF%2FA%3D%3D

videobruce

11-19-06, 10:37 AM

About time.
Nice to see a party who cares about real working people, not the overpaid rich and the corporations they suppopsely work for!

jimdoo

11-21-06, 08:34 PM

CW-
Hey, it's actually in HD tonight! Good to see.

cwoody222

11-21-06, 08:37 PM

WNYO 49 has one more day to meet their Thanksgiving deadline ;)

dcorreia

11-21-06, 09:02 PM

CW-
Hey, it's actually in HD tonight! Good to see.

Wooohooo! Im watching VM right now! and it looks like someone fixed the audio sync issue, Thanks :D

Indiana627

11-22-06, 08:04 AM

About time.
Nice to see a party who cares about real working people, not the overpaid rich and the corporations they suppopsely work for!
Is there a new national party I don't know about? The 2 I do know of are equally corrupt. All any of them care about is the next election and pointing their finger at the other guy. That's why we need term limits.

jimdoo

11-22-06, 08:25 AM

WNYO 49 has one more day to meet their Thanksgiving deadline ;)

This is really going to happen right??

videobruce

11-22-06, 08:30 AM

The 2 I do know of are equally corrupt. The term "corrupt" was never mentioned.
The terms "real working people" and "overpaid rich" were. Actually, the term 'overpaid underworked' should of been used.

jimdoo

11-22-06, 05:38 PM

WNYO is on but audio is bad on 49-1, good audio on 49-2 but no pic?

dtweso

11-22-06, 06:27 PM

Hi folks,

Thanks to videobruce, I am another Buffalo (Williamsville) resident joining this thread. I haven’t had time to read all the posts here, so be gentle if my questions have already been asked.

FOX-HD – Does anyone know if there is a date TW will offer this station via HD-cable?

ISF Calibration – Does anyone know of and can recommend a local ISF calibrator who is experienced with the Samsung DLP sets? I am getting close to putting myself on the list for ISF calibration and wanted to see for there is anyone local who could do this. If not local, anyone else interesting in getting a ISF calibration? A group of four or more people may shorting the time between being added to the schedule and having it done.

OTA HD channels – Are the local stations using any compression? I have been told they are not compressed. I would then expect football (fast motion) OTA to look better than HD-cable, but it does not for me.

Bruce, you had a post with a link to the SL-B4T antenna. Do you own or recommend it? Not knowing the prices, I kind of liked the HD Series VHF/UHF/FM. It would be nice if I could get FM stations further that Buffalo.

My goal is to get the absolute best picture possible with the equipment listed below.

Thanks.

My Equipment
Samsung HL-S5087W
TW SA-8300HD
OTA – In attic and of unknown historic vintage

Whitestar2

11-22-06, 06:46 PM

I live in Cheektowaga near the airport & am using a rooftop Antennacraft antenna. Just installed yesterday to replace my Wineguard that got crushed in the storm. TV: Mitsibishi 52" DLP.

As far as Fox in HD with Timewarner unless something drastic changes it will not happen. WUTV is owned by Sinclair Broadcasting & they want the cable companies to pay a fee to retransmitt the hi-def feeds in addition to the analog feed. It was on the news today the Timewarner & Sinclair are already squabbling over the contract renewal that is coming up in December. TW says they will drop WUTV & MYTV if it isn't resolved.

The other locals are carried by the cable company because they don't charge extra to carry the digital signals. This is what I was told when I contacted Adelphia earlier this year about getting WUTV in hi-def.

I've been wondering when TW will start carrying the Universal HD channel.

Hope this info helps!

go billz

11-22-06, 07:01 PM

I just recently switched over from TWC's classic package to their digital package. They are currently offering it at a discount price of $53. Boy, am I dissapointed.

a) I can't tune in NBC-HD, CBS-HD, PBS-HD, and ABC-HD when the digital box is installed. The only reason I care about this is I don't have to toggle between antenna and cabe when channel surfing... They told me, "you have to pay extra to get those channels" and "you need the HDTV box to get those channels". I kept my mouth shut.

b) The picture quality is HORRID! Especially on the lower teir channels.

c) Using an old school VCR is a pain-in-the-rear.

I'm pretty fed up with time warner... Now they might lose FOX and MY TV (Sinclair broadcasting and TWC haven't come to a contract agreement yet). The cable provider is sending out notice that they may DROP those channels when their contract is up in January (Just in time for the NFL playoffs). I don't see that happening, but... Yikes! The possibility is there.

Does anyone have experience with Direct-TV? How would you compare it with Digital Cable? How does the HD packages compare?

When are the Canadian transmitters going to UP the power of their digital transmissions?

-Cable TV is a RIP-OFF considering most of it is "commercial" television.

warit

11-22-06, 08:03 PM

WNYO is on but audio is bad on 49-1, good audio on 49-2 but no pic?
I have the same problem. Hopefully they'll fix it soon.

jimdoo

11-22-06, 08:09 PM

Show me the money -according to Abc.com is in HD - but obviously not on WKBW. Why not?
Is this like the Wheel and Jeopardy in HD on Abc - just not in Buffalo?

dtweso

11-22-06, 08:11 PM

I just recently switched over from TWC's classic package to their digital package. They are currently offering it at a discount price of $53. Boy, am I dissapointed.

a) I can't tune in NBC-HD, CBS-HD, PBS-HD, and ABC-HD when the digital box is installed. The only reason I care about this is I don't have to toggle between antenna and cabe when channel surfing... They told me, "you have to pay extra to get those channels" and "you need the HDTV box to get those channels". I kept my mouth shut.

...

Does anyone have experience with Direct-TV? How would you compare it with Digital Cable? How does the HD packages compare?

When are the Canadian transmitters going to UP the power of their digital transmissions?

-Cable TV is a RIP-OFF considering most of it is "commercial" television.Does your TV have a QAM tuner? If so then I think you should get unscrambled HD channels with Digital cable. If not, then you will need to upgrade to HD cable.

I think Dish Network has the most HD channels and both Satellite providers are using a lot of compression that many have dubbed them “HD-Lite” which is why I went with Adelphia/Time Warner HD cable.

Not sure what you are asking about HD packages and how they compare, but I now hardly will watch anything that is not in HD.

jimdoo

11-22-06, 08:12 PM

The Madonna concert is in HD as reflected correctly on Nbc - Titan tv does not say it HD??

dtweso

11-22-06, 08:31 PM

I live in Cheektowaga near the airport & am using a rooftop Antennacraft antenna. Just installed yesterday to replace my Wineguard that got crushed in the storm. TV: Mitsibishi 52" DLP.

What model Antennacraft antenna? How do you like it and what did it cost?

As far as Fox in HD with Timewarner unless something drastic changes it will not happen. WUTV is owned by Sinclair Broadcasting & they want the cable companies to pay a fee to retransmitt the hi-def feeds in addition to the analog feed. It was on the news today the Timewarner & Sinclair are already squabbling over the contract renewal that is coming up in December. TW says they will drop WUTV & MYTV if it isn't resolved. thanks. I kind of thought it was some of the reason why TW did not offer it. I have to applaud TW to some extent, but until my cable bill is more in line with my other utility bills, I feel ripped off.

dtweso

11-22-06, 08:41 PM

Show me the money -according to Abc.com is in HD - but obviously not on WKBW. Why not?
Is this like the Wheel and Jeopardy in HD on Abc - just not in Buffalo?It might be a Buffalo thing, but TitanTV does not show Show me the money to be in HD. Again maybe another Buffalo thing, but I did not think the locals were in HD until 8:00 PM primetime.

go billz

11-22-06, 09:39 PM

Does your TV have a QAM tuner? If so then I think you should get unscrambled HD channels with Digital cable. If not, then you will need to upgrade to HD cable.

Yes My TV has a QAM tuner. It's a SONY XBR970. BUT, when I use the cable box, it does not allow me to tune in the unscrambled HD channels. If I connect the cable directly to the TV, I do get 88.x and 89.x (which compromize the wivb, wkbw, wgrz and pbs)... but does not pull in their other TWC "digital channels".

I'm too cheap to upgrade to TW's (HD) package since I already get them without digital cable. I ended up disconnecting the box and running cable directly to the TV. I'm only concerned about the (local) HD channels and the Sabres games. Who needs FIT-TV, THE GAME SHOW NETWORK, and TRINITY BROADCASTING NETWORK anyway?

videobruce

11-23-06, 09:08 AM

go billz; You should of been around a few months eariler and found out that HD Net and HD Net Movies that were in the clear, aren't anymore! :mad:
Another happy TW customer............... ;)

Direct TV (better known as gestopo TV for what they did a few years ago), if don't mind their overly compressed smear.
Regarding the "lower tier" cable channels being noisey, where do you live? In comparision to the rolled off digital channels (compression), analog will look noisey, but at least it isn't 'rolled off' as most digital channels. Let's just say, its' bad enought to merit an entry here;

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HD-Lite

To sum it up:
Cable: less compression, but limited HD choices
Dave TV: far more choices, but more compression
Charlie TV: less sport package choices (I believe), but less compression then DirectTV.
............and no, I don't have any facts and figures to back that up, but just go by what I see posted over and over in various forums etc.

TW apparently made more changes to their web site. Their offerings are here;
http://www.timewarnercable.com/wny/products/cable/cable.html
At the bottom of the page are the 'limited' HD choices, 4 of which are OTA and two others, Aldelphia 'gave' you for free.

The power of US ........................ :mad:

videobruce

11-23-06, 09:29 AM

go billz; With that $53 package, using their box, do you get both ESPN, TNT & Discovery HD channels?

Whitestar2

11-23-06, 10:02 AM

Dtweso: Antennacraft HD1800. They go for $160+. Climbing on roofs is not my thing so I had Joe from Amherstv install it. I'm getting nines & tens on the signal info from my Mitsu tv & on my computer with the MYHD capture card I use. These are a little better than what I was getting with Wineguard I had.

Videobruce: Liked your mention about the HDnet & HDMovie channels disappearing. I was getting them also.They went from 76-1 & 2 to 89-1 & 2 which somehow the tv was reassigning to 1-1 & 1-2. Now they are gone. I'm wondering why my Mitsu tv picks up from cable the unencrypted QAM channels buy my MYHD card does not. It's supposed to.

Happy Turkey Day to all!

cwoody222

11-23-06, 01:48 PM

The Madonna concert is in HD as reflected correctly on Nbc - Titan tv does not say it HD??

It was?!

DAMMIT! I was out of town and specifically recorded it on cable instead of OTA so I wouldn't have signal issues. DAMN DAMN DAMN!

cwoody222

11-23-06, 01:54 PM

Show me the money -according to Abc.com is in HD - but obviously not on WKBW. Why not?
Is this like the Wheel and Jeopardy in HD on Abc - just not in Buffalo?

Probably was a mistake. WKBW probably forgot to turn on HD. It happens sometimes. Normally, if the network's website says it's in HD, it will be in Buffalo.

Strange that that show was in HD according to ABC.com, though, since it's a reality/game show. Those are rarely in HD. Maybe ABC.com was wrong? (wouldn't be the first time)

Wheel and Jeopardy are completely different. They're syndicated shows and only show it in HD in a very few markets so far (maybe just NYC and LA), Buffalo is not one of them.

canada_habs2004

11-23-06, 04:22 PM

They're syndicated shows and only show it in HD in a very few markets so far (maybe just NYC and LA)

again, CTV out of Toronto broadcasts Jeopardy in HD every weeknight over the air on 40-1. Basically Jeopardy is broadcast in HD in your market, but you haven't yet invested in an antenna to recieve it.

acegolfer

11-23-06, 09:54 PM

Is anybody getting WUHFDT (Rochester Fox aff) in 28 or 31.1? TitanTV lists it. This will be great for NY Giants fans.

go billz

11-23-06, 11:10 PM

go billz; With that $53 package, using their box, do you get both ESPN, TNT & Discovery HD channels?

No, not with thier standard digital box. To get those channels I'd need to lease their HD box which is ~$5 more. But you are right, if I pay 10% more, I can get those channels for "FREE".

I get absolutely no HD channels using their standard digital cable box... so it's sitting on my floor, disconnected (with the cable line fed directly into the TV, at least I am able to get the wgrz, wivb, wkbw, and pbs HDs).

go billz

11-23-06, 11:32 PM

Videobruce,

The lower channels looked worse when I was using the digital box... not nearly as bad without digital the box. I exchanged the box thinking it could be faulty, but had the same result. What I would like to do is return the box and save on the "leasing" fee. Long story short: They wouldn't do it (It would cost me more). I'm still trying to figure that out...

I'm just not happy with Time Warner, in general. If it weren't for some of the sports, I'd get rid of it.

videobruce

11-24-06, 08:30 AM

I get absolutely no HD channels using their standard digital cable box Ok, it just dawned on me, that's only a SD box, not HD. :rolleyes: I couldn't understand why those four wouldn't be received on their box.
I think I fell into the 'if it is digital it must mean HD' unknowing consumer trap. :(
You need the $9 a month HD box for that, or a CC for $5.

Their greed is going to bite them big tin the ass, since one can't order HD only channels w/o all the SD digital crap (most of which I could care less about). Since there is no technical reason this couldn't be done, just greed. :mad:

Does anyone know if they will let you install a CC yourself and not pay the 'truck roll' fee? The lower channels looked worse when I was using the digital box I think with the addition of all these digital channels it might of impacted analog. While bad fittings usually affect ther low band (2-6), their analog quality has gotten worse. Frankly, I believe they really don't care since they want you to subscribed to digital so they can convert their systems over to their pet; "switched video". (Read my 'sig'................)

But, to answer your question, those STBs' almost always look worse because of the poorer tuner and all the other 'crap' inside. That's why I never understand why 90% of the posters in this forum that have cable use a STB when many have the ability of using their internal tuner and CC slot.
Screw PPV. Another way to reach into your pocket.

cwoody222

11-24-06, 10:31 AM

Their greed is going to bite them big tin the ass, since one can't order HD only channels w/o all the SD digital crap (most of which I could care less about). Since there is no technical reason this couldn't be done, just greed. :mad:

My ex was able to order their HD package without digital cable.

He had basic 2-13 and upgraded to an HD DVR (because obviously his non-QAM TV needed an HD receiver box), and the HD package. They included analog cable 13-99 also. I think that's because they had to, because they couldn't lock those out of the cable box. We were never 100% sure whether he was paying for those.

But he was not forced to get digital cable past channel 99.

This was under Adelphia but he moved and had to be re-hooked up with Time Warner.

jimdoo

11-24-06, 10:33 AM

Does 49-1 still have bad audio?

cwoody222

11-24-06, 10:34 AM

Does anyone know if they will let you install a CC yourself and not pay the 'truck roll' fee?

Over in the TiVo Series3 forum I don't think I've seen a single report anywhere under any cable co of a situation where you can pick it up yourself and install it.

They all require a installer to come over.

Fees (for the installation call and the monthly fee for the card) varied greatly and was dependent on your location, not your cable company. The same company charged differently in different locations. Pretty much no rhyme or reason.

videobruce

11-24-06, 11:15 AM

Pretty much no rhyme or reason As much as they can get for it under the local franchise.
The city has three more (decent) analog channels then the suburbs do for just "basic" cable. ;) They all require a installer to come over. Their 800 number CSR claimed you can install it yourself, but we all know the creditability that has. :rolleyes:

mikec2lcd

11-24-06, 12:01 PM

Thanks to videobruce for posting the link to Time Warner cable packages. I checked it out and discovered my current Standard&Digital Basic plus Digital Variety package is $13.00 less with TimeWarner than it was with Adelphia (Tonawanda NY)

Just got off the phone with a Time-Warner rep to get my new lower cost billing plus a prorated credit for this months T-W billing. Also checked the status of their High Definition tier which is an additional $5 plus $3 more for the HD box which replaces my Digital box.

Now the interesting thing that the T-W rep told me is that with the HD Tier (which includes: 4 locals, 2 ESPN, Discovery, TNT, 2 hdnet, 2 inhd)... any HD program on any _other_ channel (e.g. TBS, A&E) would also be received in HD with my HD box.

Now i didn't ask specifically about Fox, cw and mytv but thats what he implied by saying any other channel, so anyone who has a HD box may want to verify this and post the result. If this is in fact true then the T-W HD Tier would be worth it.

philherz

11-24-06, 12:30 PM

Now the interesting thing that the T-W rep told me is that with the HD Tier (which includes: 4 locals, 2 ESPN, Discovery, TNT, 2 hdnet, 2 inhd)... any HD program on any _other_ channel (e.g. TBS, A&E) would also be received in HD with my HD box.

The 4 channels (2 hdnet, 2 inhd) are listed by TW's ala carte pricing as an add'l $5 per month.

Is that different than what the rep told you????

Now i didn't ask specifically about Fox, cw and mytv but thats what he implied by saying any other channel, so anyone who has a HD box may want to verify this and post the result. If this is in fact true then the T-W HD Tier would be worth it.

I have TW HD-- Fox, cw and mytv do not show up as HD on my SA8300HD box. Are they someplace else on the "dial?"

cwoody222

11-24-06, 01:15 PM

The rep didn't know what he was talking about.

HD Fox, CW and MyTV are not available on cable in Buffalo at all. Period.

And the only way you'll see a TBS show or an A&E show in HD is if you watch said show on TBS-HD or A&E-HD... neither of which are available.

You will get TNT HD. If you watch the SD version the shows are NOT in HD. (aside from the fact that TNT's upconverting is crap) To see TNT HD shows you have to watch TNT-HD, not TNT-SD.

What the CSR probably meant was that EVERYTHING the SA8300 outputs are automatically upconverted to 1080i. But the quality is nowhere near as good as "real" HD. And they won't be 16:9.

If you watch NBC shows on ch 2 it'll be 4:3 upconverted to 1080i.

If you watch NBC shows on 702 it'll be 16:9 and in real (and better looking) 1080i.

FYI: if it matters, the SA8300 won't output 720p I don't think.

videobruce

11-24-06, 01:36 PM

any HD program on any _other_ channel (e.g. TBS, A&E) would also be received in HD with my HD box. mikec2lcd; ; IF you pay for the specific channel. He (along with 75% of the rest of the country) thinks, just because it is "digital" it is "HD".
Did you talk to someone 'locally' or just that national 800 number??

PS; welcome to the forums.

cwoody222

11-24-06, 01:41 PM

Just like when stereo TV became popular everyone thought they were getting stereo because the bottom of the screen said "in Stereo where available".

Just like now. People think because they have an HDTV and they watch TV and it says "Available in HD", they think they're seeing HD. I noticed NBC's SD "bug" even says "NBC HD" for a few seconds.

While watching REAL HD, the bug will say "HD" for the full hour. And - at least for now - all those annoying on-screen promos don't exist on HD. That - for me - is reason enough to watch HD!

mikec2lcd

11-24-06, 01:55 PM

mikec2lcd; ; IF you pay for the specific channel. He (along with 75% of the rest of the country) thinks, just because it is "digital" it is "HD".
Did you talk to someone 'locally' or just that national 800 number??

I called the 800 customer service number listed on my T-W bill to get my billing changed from the Adelphia Digital package to the lower cost T-W Digital package.
(The digital box is for my wife, i use an antenna for Fox-Hd, cw & mytv and also get the locals on cable 88-1..etc).

The rep said "on other channels besides the HD Tier channels, programs that show the HD icon will be received in HD with a T-W HD box"...not that he is correct as cwoody explains, maybe he means upconverting.

I was just curious if someone with a T-W HD box could actually tune in a TBS HD program.

philherz

11-24-06, 04:31 PM

I was just curious if someone with a T-W HD box could actually tune in a TBS HD program.

I have a TW HD box (SA8300) and I cannot get a TBS HD program.

Unless I'm really confused, it has to be offered in the "700" series of TW HD channels.

videobruce

11-24-06, 04:32 PM

I cannot get a TBS HD program I hope not, it's not there. Here is the TW HD lineup off their site;

http://www.timewarnercable.com/CustomerService/CLU/TWCCLUs.ashx?ChannelFilter=All&CLUID=553&Zip=&SortByPackage=false

The premium HD movie channels, are those included with each service package (for that set of services as in HBO for example) if you are paying for a HD tier?

canada_habs2004

11-24-06, 05:01 PM

we really need to get a second thread for Buffalo, cable only, and use this thread for OTA Hd only.

WNYO still has messed up sound on their HD channel.

jimdoo

11-24-06, 06:15 PM

Hey wnyfox - What's the deal at WNYO- Finally up and running and now more problems??
Does everyone else have audio on 49-2 but no picture, Pic on 49-1 and bad audio?

cwoody222

11-24-06, 11:01 PM

I have a TW HD box (SA8300) and I cannot get a TBS HD program.

Unless I'm really confused, it has to be offered in the "700" series of TW HD channels.

That is true.

The CSR that the previous poster spoke to was just plain wrong.

You won't get TBS shows in HD unless you get TBS-HD (which I don't even think exists... and certainly doesn't exist in TW Buffalo).

cwoody222

11-24-06, 11:02 PM

The premium HD movie channels, are those included with each service package (for that set of services as in HBO for example) if you are paying for a HD tier?

Yes, if you get the HBO package (AND the regular HD package I'm pretty sure), you get HBO-HD.

And yes, that's the only way to get HBO-HD. You can't get it with just the regular HD package and not the regular HBO package.

canada_habs2004

11-24-06, 11:31 PM

Hey wnyfox - What's the deal at WNYO- Finally up and running and now more problems??
Does everyone else have audio on 49-2 but no picture, Pic on 49-1 and bad audio?

34-2 is fine for me, picture and sound, but if course, its SD, no good.
34-1 picture is clear and in HD, but ya crapped out sound.

wnyfox

11-25-06, 08:48 AM

Hey wnyfox - What's the deal at WNYO- Finally up and running and now more problems??
Does everyone else have audio on 49-2 but no picture, Pic on 49-1 and bad audio?

Yes, there are a couple of different problems that could be causing this. Honestly, it most likely won't get resolved until Monday.
FYI, WNYO is currently running at very low power. Barring any unforseen problems it will be up to full power by the end of next week.

jimdoo

11-25-06, 09:19 AM

Why would I get a message on my tv saying no signal and no pic on 49-2 with sound when there IS a signal there according to the display info??

videobruce

11-25-06, 10:22 AM

we really need to get a second thread for Buffalo, cable only, and use this thread for OTA Hd only. There is so little activity here as it is compared to most other markets, it surely isn't needed. Beside it brings more to the table discussing both avenues.
One member is saving $13 a month because of it. :rolleyes:

Ch 34s' level off my CM 4228 is +17 dbm, whereas it was (at full power) +30 dbm.

jimdoo; Because there is no pic or at least ID data is missing that the tuner can't see the video stream.

jimdoo

11-25-06, 03:53 PM

Mytv's all better now with- 5.1 sound 49-1 !

dsspredator

11-25-06, 06:44 PM

Yes, there are a couple of different problems that could be causing this. Honestly, it most likely won't get resolved until Monday.
FYI, WNYO is currently running at very low power. Barring any unforseen problems it will be up to full power by the end of next week.

Thanks looks and sounds great!

Remapped to 49-01 and 49-02 on all 3 tuners!

75% signal in St Catharines.

cwoody222

11-26-06, 08:51 PM

I am not getting 49. No picture or audio on either .1 or .2

Anyone else?

canada_habs2004

11-26-06, 10:45 PM

do you mean your getting a high signal strength, but no result on the locked in channels? or are you just not receiving the signal strong enough to get a lock and stable picture?

you may have to get a better antenna to pull it in, but if the power is going to be much higher by the end of the week, wait until then to see if you get it one its at full power.

cwoody222

11-27-06, 06:39 AM

Seemed like I wasn't getting a signal at all. I didn't realize it wasn't at full power yet.

I was able to receive it when they did their test a few weeks ago (with the Korean show) so I figured I would be able to get it now.

I guess I'll wait until it's full power.

tvguy073

11-27-06, 06:00 PM

Is WIVB running at full power or having severe transmitting problems.

I live in Toronto and WIVB has not locked consistently on my receivers in the past few days. Signals from the other Colden area stations have been at the same level they have been for months and in some cases years.

Anyone else experiencing WIVB problems? It appeared they were off the air late Saturday night and at times on Sunday.

Whitestar2

11-27-06, 06:22 PM

cwoody222:

Realigned to 34-1. Mytv.

Check out antennaweb.org to get the info for location & channel info. Seems like some of the digitals changed recently.

Later!!

jimdoo

11-27-06, 10:03 PM

No video on 49-2 ? - Anyone else having the same issue? Are they saving bandwidth for a better HD pic on 49-1?

JohnDubbya

11-27-06, 11:15 PM

I live in elba which is outside batavia and I just got denied waiver and have to wait 60 days. is there anyway I can fight this. This sucks I have a beautiful 50 inch tv and I cant get network HD channels

canada_habs2004

11-28-06, 12:14 AM

have you read any of this thead. go OTA. theres about 6 channels in Buffalo you can get for free, and if you get a decent antenna, theres a few more from Toronto you can get.

philherz

11-28-06, 12:55 AM

cwoody222

11-28-06, 08:49 AM

cwoody222:

Realigned to 34-1. Mytv.

Check out antennaweb.org to get the info for location & channel info. Seems like some of the digitals changed recently.

Later!!

Huh?

If I got their channel before when they were testing, I should be able to get it when they go live, assuming their power level is the same.

Are they at full power yet?

Are they broadcasting with proper PSIP info 'cause I'm trying to get them on 49.1. Should I try on 34.1?

videobruce

11-28-06, 08:53 AM

tvguy073; You have a PM.

I checked 38 (7.1) & 39 (4.1) and both were above what they were with my last reading: +7db & +13db respectively. My SLM battery died so I wasn't able to check ch 33 (2.1) which many up north complain about.

I did check ch 34 (49.1) and their level is down even further; only +4 dbm which means they must be working on it this AM. Check out antennaweb.org to get the info for location & channel info. Here is the 10/05 update from 2150 (Buffalo City Hall as reference);
http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=42%2E88&longitude=%2D78%2E8770&magnetic_north=9&range=90&sort=distance&show_expired=False&show_construction=False&show_analog=False&show_low_power=True&action=Show+Stations

Indiana627

11-28-06, 12:46 PM

Are they broadcasting with proper PSIP info 'cause I'm trying to get them on 49.1. Should I try on 34.1?
On my TV, 34.1 is blank, 34.2 doesn't come in at all, 34.3 is the HD feed, and 34.4 is the SD feed. If I enter 49.1 or 49.2, 49.3 or 49.4 I get no signal.

If I switch over to my Directv HR10-250, I get the HD feed on 49.1 and SD feed on 49.2 with nothing if I enter any of the 34.x channels. Weird.

Both of their shows were in HD last night. I don't watch any of them, but it's nice to know there's anothe OTA HD channel in town.

jimdoo

11-28-06, 12:51 PM

WNYO Sub channels ?

34-3, 34-4 ?? I thought there was only the main HD channel and one sub channel for the sd feed on 34-2?

videobruce

11-28-06, 12:55 PM

Depends on the tuner and software.

canada_habs2004

11-28-06, 09:49 PM

My Dad has seen my HDTV enough to wonder if he should get one, but he really can't afford the TW monthly charge and, at his age, I'm not crazy about him signing up for any commitments with the satellite guys.

I've read about the advantages of outdoor HD antennas, but he's in an apartment in Getzville and his only option would be an indoor antenna.

Is it even worth considering?

If yes, an suggestions on what he should look at?

thnx

i wouldn't be the right person to reccomend you an indoor antenna, but get a decent one, and you might possibly get every Buffalo station period. You will definitely get most of them with an indoor antenna.

cwoody222

11-28-06, 10:41 PM

Anyone else having trouble with WKBW today? Usually it's fine; today it's real spotty. Can't be the weather; it's perfect today.

cwoody222

11-29-06, 07:02 AM

WKBW came back for me. I had to move my antenna just a hair. Weird. It'd been fine for weeks and I hadn't touched it.

I found WNYO too. It's on 34-3 on my set. 34-4 has nothing. As does 49-1 and 49-2. The 49s are coming in with a 60 signal (same as 34-3) but with zero picture or sound.

jimdoo

11-29-06, 06:52 PM

No video on 49-2 ? - Anyone else having the same issue? Are they saving bandwidth for a better HD pic on 49-1?

Anyone??

canada_habs2004

11-29-06, 07:41 PM

cwoody222 your having PSIP issues. Your recieving the signal fine, its not a matter of lack of power and signal strength, its issues with the PSIP info from the station, and your tuner.

On my PC tuner (which doesn't remap) i get WNYO-HD on 34-1 (works great, audio and picture are good) and WNYO-SD on 34-2 (currently no picture/sound). On my Sanyo TV (which does remap) i'm getting WNYO-HD on 49-1 and WNYO-SD on 49-2.

I don't think its saving bandwidth issue, because in that case, they would remove the subchannel. Since the channel is new, they are going to go through a lot of bugs, changes, fixes, before things stick, so i'm guessing its just part of the process, seeing a black screen on one subchannel.

acegolfer

11-29-06, 08:41 PM

jimdoo

11-29-06, 09:15 PM

jimdoo

11-29-06, 09:20 PM

It must be overload like was mentioned before. I can hang my RS bowtie behind the curtain in the window and get better results for pbs and mytv than w/ it hanging in clearview in the window??

videobruce

11-30-06, 07:45 AM

Due to weak signal, my PC with Fusion5HDTV card crashed several times. One reason those 'cheaper' software cards really aren't a good idea. How is video on 49-1 for you right now - I'm getting frequent drop outs on audio/video. Please take a look at my previous post regarding their signal strength. I don't know when it changed, but as of this AM it's up. Now +20dbm. Still not full power though.

I did check ch 33 and they are +8 dbm, the same as ch 39.

videobruce

11-30-06, 08:03 AM

Regarding our friends up north;
http://www.tvtechnology.com/hd_notebook/one.php?id=1058

Indiana627

11-30-06, 12:07 PM

I'm having difficulties with WIVB tonight for the first time. Due to weak signal, my PC with Fusion5HDTV card crashed several times.
It was fine for me from 8-9 for Jericho. Not one drop out. I recorded CSI:NY at 10 but haven't watched it yet.

daredevil23

11-30-06, 09:56 PM

I'm having difficulties with WIVB tonight for the first time. Due to weak signal, my PC with Fusion5HDTV card crashed several times.

Never had my FusionHDTV crash due to weak signal, it only crashes for bad multipath.

daredevil23

11-30-06, 10:10 PM

How is video on 49-1 for you right now - I'm getting frequent drop outs on audio/video. Checking signal - it's constantly going from 75/80% to Zero and back again. The audio is very choppy on Wned also! Woudn't mind hearing a little James Taylor in 5.1 ya know! Anyone else having the same issues?

I'm getting some decent 70% signal levels with my aerial off axis for Grand Island, but that's no unusual as I need it off axis for WUTV-HD as well.

Indiana627

12-01-06, 12:54 PM

Are there only 2 shows on WNYO MYTV? I've been checking out the HD signal and everynight is the same 2 shows.

acegolfer

12-02-06, 11:12 PM

Never had my FusionHDTV crash due to weak signal, it only crashes for bad multipath.

I rotated the antenna just a little. It's good for my F5L card. But my HD-STB shows no signal. I guess this implies multipath issue. How do I resolve this?

videobruce

12-03-06, 09:57 AM

acegolfer; Youi mentioned you are in Williamsville. Is that the actual village or just that so called Williamsville zip code that actually is mostly Amherst and part of Clarence??
How high is the antenna? What type of house/building? Which direction do you face?

Those 'graphs' on these sets really aren't much help. I guess they are better than nothing, but none of them are actual signal strength indicators AFAIK.

acegolfer

12-03-06, 01:18 PM

videobruce

12-03-06, 02:12 PM

Ok, that's E. Amherst. The Postal service needs to buy a map. I just drove through there last night................

1. SW is the wrong corner of the house.
2. Assuming it is your house, erect a outdoor antenna. You are in a good reception area.
3. For the time being, get a Channel Master 4228 and install it along with a rotor inside the attic (assuming it is a full attic). It can be hung (mounted) from a cross joist hanging downward (rotor above the antenna). The RG6 can be run down between the walls to where your TV is. That will get you by until spring.

When you move it outdoors, just run the cable from where you left off through the roof and up to the new location. Before you say the word 'leaks', drill under the shingles and have the cable come out under them instead of through. A good application of 'tar' will seal it. Done it many times and never had a problem.

OR, there is this that I just discovered and at the price I found it for (same price as the Silver Sensor) it has to be the best deal out there;
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9061960&&#post9061960

Hello Chris, is you listening?? ;)

canada_habs2004

12-03-06, 07:43 PM

anyone watching Harry Potter in OAR HD on CBC-HD? looks really good.

videobruce

12-04-06, 11:24 AM

It's not antennaweb (thank goodness), but it's not 2150;

http://www.hdtvmagazine.com/programming/broadcast.php

Scroll down to "Buffalo" and click.

cwoody222

12-05-06, 01:23 PM

cwoody222

12-05-06, 01:24 PM

Are there only 2 shows on WNYO MYTV? I've been checking out the HD signal and everynight is the same 2 shows.

Yes. They show telenovella-like shows from 8-9 and 9-10 each day. Same shows M-F with a weekly recap on Sat.

I believe both shows' runs just ended so two new shows just began.

cwoody222

12-05-06, 08:17 PM

PSIP issue on WNYO must be fixed because my TiVo is now seeing it on 49-1. Nice signal and picture.

jimdoo

12-11-06, 05:41 PM

I'm wondering if anyone in the Buffalo area has ever received more than CBC without a pre-amp. I now have installed a rotor which heightened my CM 4228 slightly and was hoping for CTV- No luck- I'm thinking at this point a pre-amp is required! Any feedback is appreciated.

intrac

12-11-06, 07:28 PM

All the Toronto HD channels are on the CN Tower, but CFTO-DT (9-1 or 40-1) is slightly more directional towards Toronto, but with a good antenna (like the CM4228 that you have) you should pick it up.

It's 300 meters above ground at 550 kW. CBLT is at 325 meters and at 1000 kW.

videobruce

12-12-06, 07:28 AM

If CFTO is operating at full power then it's pattern is north or northwest. 2150 shows it's non directional, but since it is a Canadian station, I don't know if the polar plot is correct. There is close to no signal here. Huge difference between them and CBC where, while weak, is easily received (unless you are in a bad location).

jimdoo; It would help if you put your town in your profile. Where are you??

jimdoo

12-12-06, 08:10 AM

I'm in North Tonawanda - according to remote central CBC is like 30kw whereas CTV is much less. What's weird is I can get CTV easier than CBC analog is the power reversed for analog?

videobruce

12-12-06, 09:20 AM

NT! You should be able to get CBC with a Silver Sensor..................BUT, just how far are you from Gilligans Island? You might have a issue even though Toronto is 90 degrees away.

jimdoo

12-12-06, 11:18 AM

NT! You should be able to get CBC with a Silver Sensor..................BUT, just how far are you from Gilligans Island? You might have a issue even though Toronto is 90 degrees away.

It's CTV I want I do get CBC - I'm less than 3miles from GI and I sometimes think I experience overload on my tuner for 23, 26, 29, 43 and 49 - overall they are pretty good though. Don't they need a few more stations out there??

acegolfer

12-12-06, 11:29 AM

Does anyone use BeyondTV?

I just got one but can't tune in 4.1 WIVBDT. All the other channels are okay.

dsspredator

12-12-06, 11:53 AM

It's 300 meters above ground at 550 kW. CBLT is at 325 meters and at 1000 kW.

Intrac, you are not even close.

20-1 CBC CBLT 38 kW (1611')
40-1 CTV CFTO 17.4 kW (1532')

intrac

12-12-06, 12:44 PM

I used the FCC data and the HAAT.

EskimoPie

12-12-06, 02:15 PM

HAAT? Would that HAAT be made out of tinfoil?

intrac

12-12-06, 02:59 PM

HAAT = Height Above Average Terrain

zigyblu

12-12-06, 04:26 PM

jimdoo

12-12-06, 07:54 PM

jimdoo,

Hi, I'm also in N.T. 5 blocks due east of the hospital and i have the same issues as you do with lack of reception on the canadian 9.1 . i get 5.1 pretty good but i haven't been able to get 9.1 as of yet.

i'm using a 4228 w/ pre-amp and that's the story here. ranch home and a fairly clear site line north but not much height.......

Hey - Thanks for the info. I was thinking about getting a pre-amp too. Guess it's not worth it though if you don't get it. I just find it hard to believe we can't pick up more OTA from Toronto. According to remote central's table of distances we are less than 50 miles from the CN tower?? What gives- this antenna says the range is 60 miles +

canada_habs2004

12-13-06, 12:27 AM

i'm a bit confused as to why you are all having such difficulty recieving CTV, i'm in the same general direction from Toronto as Buffalo, but only 40 miles away, and CTV is an easy lock all the time. My antenna is only 7' off the ground as well. The one thing i do have though is a decent line of sight, no trees near the antenna in the direction of Toronto. Jimdoo i know you have trees in the way, and that is for sure why you can't get CTV.

When I had my antenna on my roof where it was blocked from Toronto because of many trees, CTV was fairly weak, and would sometimes come in, sometimes wouldn't. Then I moved the antenna out to the road where theres a clear path and now CTV is as strong as any other channel, can even get it when my antenna is aimed at Buffalo.

videobruce

12-13-06, 07:55 AM

It's nice to know I'm not the only one with CTV issues and Grand Island! i'm a bit confused as to why you are all having such difficulty recieving CTV Take a look at the link I have posted many times showing the distances between the stations (all eight of them) on Grand Island and Toronto. Then take a look at my post of signal levels I measured.

How can one NOT have a problem with trying to receive a station I can't measure because the SLM has a cutoff of -35dbm and the station is usually less than that? Then, on top of that you have three signals that register +50 dbm in the same direction. Add four more that are over 25 db, and you have a mess.

What I'm very surprised at are you guys in NT that can't receive ch 40. Even with GI 3 miles away Toronto is 60 degrees (or so depending on your exact location) off to the side and the side rejection of your anternna should be enough without traps to reduce the overload from GI. Of course it would depend on what antenna you are using and aiming is critical.

I can turn my CM 4228 10-20 degrees and drop GI down 15-25 db with only a 5db (or so) drop with the Toronto stations. There is only 3 degrees difference between Toronto and GI, but there are strong nulls in those signals that do help (but still don't solve the problem).

I just used this as reference (move the "pin" to where you are and C/P the lat. & long. to the next link);
http://tiger.census.gov/cgi-bin/mapsurfer?infact=2&outfact=2&act=place&on=railroad&tlevel=-&tvar=-&tmeth=i&mlat=43.002837&mlon=-78.85472&msym=redpin&mlabel=14150__Tonawanda_&murl=&lat=43.02776&lon=-78.84909&wid=0.100&ht=0.100&conf=mapnew.con&map.x=208&map.y=172

Which gives you this;
http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=43%2E02776&longitude=%2D78%2E84909&magnetic_north=9&range=90&sort=distance&show_expired=True&show_construction=True&show_analog=True&show_low_power=False&action=Show+Stations

BTW, yesterday morning propagation had signal levels up 15-20 db from the north. I was receiving Toronto at record levels. I tried for CITY (53), but it wasn't that good. :(

videobruce

12-13-06, 08:05 AM

Try an antenna location on the north side of your house/building as far away from GI. Rotate the antenna in small amounts, possibly more to the north and see if that helps.

jimdoo

12-13-06, 01:14 PM

What I'm very surprised at are you guys in NT that can't receive ch 40.

Are you saying I'm unable to get CTV because of my aiming and not the lower power of CTV as compared to CBC?

kawahl

12-14-06, 02:32 PM

I live just accross the Erie County border in Wyoming County (Varysburg 14167). Fortunately on top of a tall hill. The CM4221 was referred to me. Any thoughts or experience with this antenna in our area. I have Directv and can't ge the OTA hdtv stations.

Thanks,
Keith

dsspredator

12-14-06, 06:07 PM

zigyblu

12-15-06, 08:04 PM

Hey - Thanks for the info. I was thinking about getting a pre-amp too. Guess it's not worth it though if you don't get it. I just find it hard to believe we can't pick up more OTA from Toronto. According to remote central's table of distances we are less than 50 miles from the CN tower?? What gives- this antenna says the range is 60 miles +

I needed the pre amp to get 5.1, but where I have to aim the antenna to get it leaves me without any signal for 9.1. I can get a analog 9 not the best but forget the digital signal so far. Gr. Is. is killing me I believe. Going north is not a problem as far as trees are concerned. It's pretty open in that direction, but west and south southeast is pretty hairy for me with large maples. I kind of sneak behind my next door neighbors tree for my local 2,4, and 7, but to get 29 I have to go northwest because of the tree in my yard and the hospital.

videobruce

12-16-06, 08:55 AM

I needed the pre amp to get 5.1, but where I have to aim the antenna to get it leaves me without any signal for 9.1. You are aming at the same place. Your problem is the same as mine. Those eight xmitters are overloading your preamp. Get rid of the preamp.
What antenna are you using?

Our friends up north have a very good forum on OTA equipment. Remember cable and satellite hasn't been active as long as it's been here and there are mopre remote areas so OTA id more popular (just look at all the towers on peoples homes);

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=130

zigyblu

12-16-06, 04:02 PM

videobruce

12-17-06, 09:57 AM

zigyblu; I understand your frustration. Believe me, no one is more 'frustrated' than myself with the 'GI problem'.

You are four or five miles closer which is a double edge sword. Raising the antenna will also put you in the stronger pattern from GI. Directivity (side rejection) is what you need and since you already have one 4228, have you considered a second one for stacking?? With that ranch it would be a 'walk in the park' to do any antenna work.
I know where you are and the terrain isn't out of the ordinary. Exactly what is NW of you as far as buildings, etc??

Antennas Direct are overpriced. While not another 'Monster Cable', what I have seen you are paying 2x for some minor design changes.

zigyblu

12-17-06, 11:09 AM

VideoBruce, I really don't have anything north- northwest of me building wise but I'm not sure I want to go with a stacked array because of windload for one and the fact of unsightlyness ( if there is such a word ) that my neighbors will have also look at this. Funny thing some 30 years ago when I was young and not carring about other home owners feelings I had been involved with CB radio and had stacked beams on a 10 foot towerete in the cities west side and that never bothered me but now I care about looks as much as performance.

We have been getting an awfull lot of strong winds up here for the past few years and I'm not sure that the rotor can handle the thrust with a larger array. You should see my Dish out back when it takes a gust. It just snaps back and stays held off the mark untill the wind lets up. Now I'm thinking of going to the small dish and that hurts my pride a bunch.

videobruce

12-17-06, 11:34 AM

A 'thrust bearing' will take care of the additional loading. As far as 'looks', antenna are a beautiful thing. Unless there is some 'safety' issue, there isn't much anyone could do about it other than 'whine'. ;)

zigyblu

12-17-06, 11:46 AM

I hear you there, so I'm now going to give this some more thought. Do you really think that by adding the extra side rejection by stacking I will be able to lock onto CTV with solid signal in any conditions or do you think that eventually they will pick up thier signal stregnth to where I won't need to do anything but wait for them to come to me??

videobruce

12-17-06, 01:30 PM

The signal is there. It is 'there' where I am, but I don't have your avantage of 'side rejection' since I only have 3 degrees difference between GI and Toronto though I can 'improve' things by mis-aiming the antenna 10 degrees to reduce the signals from GI even more.

RF is tough to predict. You can do math calcluations all day long but the proff is in the pudding. The other thing you might try is moving the antenna to the other end of the house. What you really need is a SLM and the ability to hold a small antenna as you move it to different locations while looking at the SLM. IOWs', 'sniff' out a hot spot.

zigyblu

12-17-06, 02:13 PM

Bruce, I'm going to give this a whole lot of thought about going to a stacked pair of 4228 and then I'll have to talk with my installer about the thrust bearing and probably guy wires to make that work.

If I didn't have so many different issues going on at the same time there wouldn't be any delay. I have been having problems with 4.1 droping out so bad at times it makes me nuts. From a 98 signal to 40 for over a minute some times and back up. The other night when it dropped i grabed the remote to check the signal and it was at 98 but the screen was black and the digital audio was out but then it poped back on again. I just shake my head and usually mutter something unplesant about them at WIVB.

The tuner that is in my Sony tv is not the best that is being made so we suffer from multipath problems also for some screwy reason that I haven't been able to get figured out yet, but we're trying our best with the new formats. Heck, I threw away the old tri band antenna and went all digital to prove my committment but I sometimes think I should have taken my time. I would like to check with Sony service if they have come out with a fith generation chipset tuner that could be swapped out with the one in the set to see if it can make a difference.

So the beat goes on, and I will have to keep thinking about this and in the meanwhile keep picking peoples minds in hopes of coming up with the solution.....By the way, the antenna is in the best location on my roof for reception and we know that because we were already in the worst place to be before the digital tv came here and we had to make the move just a couple of months back.....

George Molnar

12-17-06, 08:49 PM

zigyblu

12-17-06, 10:23 PM

Zigyblu, How does the landing pattern at Buffalo airport fit into geometry of your antenna aimed at Colden towers? I wonder if this is "multipath" somewhat like the flutter seen on original channels from airplanes passing thought antenna's receive path.

George, I have often thought that was an issue with reception of OTA signals. Some people roll thier eyes when I tell them that my next door neighbor used to cut up my signal when he cut his lawn everytime he crossed in front of my antenna direction. Since I moved the antenna' location a few months back and also changed antenna to a CM 4228 the lawnmower didn't seem to be at issue any longer. There are nights that I do believe the aircraft both coming and going get in the way, but that's always been a minor problem with OTA.

bwilkins

12-19-06, 11:54 AM

In The News
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12/15/2006

TIME WARNER CABLE ANNOUNCES NEW CHANNELS

Four new channels will launch January 1, 2007

For immediate release
December 15, 2006

TIME WARNER CABLE ANNOUNCES NEW CHANNELS

Four new channels will launch January 1, 2007

(BUFFALO, N.Y.) - Time Warner Cable is announcing four new channels to its digital cable line-up, effective New Year’s Day. The channels include: Arts & Entertainment High Definition (A&E HD); MTV: High Definition (MTVHD); Universal High Definition and SportsNet NY (SNY). All four channels will be launched and available to cable subscribers on New Year’s Day.

“We are continuing our pledge to bring a better value and a wider variety of channel choices to our customers,” said Gordon Harp, division president, Time Warner Cable Buffalo. “Our goal is to give customers the best cable experience possible, and we feel by bringing this quality programming to customers, we are making progress towards that goal.”

Among the new channels is SportsNet NY (SNY). SNY will be available on channel 25 for most WNY cable customers, except in the city of Buffalo, where it will be found on channel 27.

This 24-hour a day, 7 days a week premiere sports and entertainment network features up to 125 New York Mets games, and is the official year-round television home of the New York Jets, providing viewers the most exclusive coverage and access to the Jets. In addition, the station televises other professional and collegiate sports, including basketball and football games from the Big East and Big Ten conferences, as well as classic sports and event programming.

A&E HD offers a diverse mix of high quality entertainment, ranging from the networks signature Real-Life Series franchise, including HD presentations of hit series such as: Driving Force, King of Cars, Inked and Dallas SWAT. The station also shows critically acclaimed movies and dramatic series, and is the official home to high-profile off-network series presented in HD including 24, CSI: Miami, Crossing Jordan, and beginning in 2007, The Sopranos. Viewers can find this on channel 779.

MTV: High Definition (MTVHD) is a 24-hour HDTV music television network showcasing HD music performance specials and concerts from artists across many musical genres; brought to viewers by MTV, VH1 and CMT. Original shows that can be seen on MHD include: Roadie Trip, a weekly and music and travel series hosted by Mayleen Ramey exploring rich musical history in various U.S. cities; and MHD UnCompressed, a weekly countdown series spotlighting music videos and other great HD musical highlights. MTVHD can be viewed on channel 780.

Universal HD, an NBC Universal Television cable network, offers the best of NBC Universal's library in HD. Programming includes unedited and uninterrupted films, Backdraft, Casino, Apollo 13 and The Fast and the Furious; award-winning series such as Monk, Law & Order: SVU and Battlestar Galactica; performing arts and special events "Music in High Places" and sports programming including the US Open, The Dew Action Sports Tour and the 2006 Winter Olympics. Universal HD can be found on channel 769.

For further information about Time Warner’s new pricing and packaging, visit www.timewarnercable.com/wny, or call the Time Warner Customer Service Center at 1-866-668-6044.

EskimoPie

12-19-06, 03:54 PM

Well that is good news... Hopefully they will be able to add these channels without stealing bandwidth from the existing HD channels. Still no Fox HD though huh?

EskimoPie

12-19-06, 03:54 PM

Also, is there any word on when Verizon might start rolling out FiOS TV in the buffalo area? They've had the internet service rolling out for a while now.

videobruce

12-20-06, 06:39 AM

“We are continuing our pledge to bring a better value and a wider variety of channel choices to our customers,” Typical corporate line of BS..........................

cwoody222

12-20-06, 12:14 PM

Bruce... they're adding five new HD channels.

What do you want to be happy? ;)

videobruce

12-20-06, 12:47 PM

For how much more?
To answer your question; Bring back Courier Cable & open up HD Net & HD Net movies.

http://freenet.buffalo.edu/bah/h/1985.html#1971 (third entry)

rwantennasat

12-20-06, 01:24 PM

[QUOTE=videobruce]You are aming at the same place. Your problem is the same as mine. Those eight xmitters are overloading your preamp. Get rid of the preamp.
What antenna are you using?

Our friends up north have a very good forum on OTA equipment. Remember cable and satellite hasn't been active as long as it's been here and there are mopre remote areas so OTA id more popular (just look at all the towers on peoples homes);

Bruce, like I said earlier I am getting hammered by the stations on Grand Island when I try for Toronto stations. The antenna I am using is a Channel Master 4228 mounted in a tripod with rotor and my biggest problem I think is lack of hight. If you are familar with the area around Degraff Memorial Hospital you would understand. I am 5 blocks due east of the hospital and live in a single family ranch home.

When the antenna first went up we tried without the preamp and had no 5.1. We put the preamp in and 5.1 comes in pretty good here. Nothing from the 9.1 though but I am giving some thought about that big yaggi that Antennas direct is selling. The model that interest me the most is the 91XG which is very directional and that might be another problem to overcome.

stay away from a 91xg!! The yagi antennas built by winegard like the 9032 actually perform as well if not better than on overpriced 91xg. I think we installed your 8 bay and your area wasnt to cluttered. Your height is a factor thou, as well as Grand Island. The yagi does show a more narrow pattern. And the gain on the 9032 is pretty decent. P.S. if anyone would like to buy a 91xg i have one here for sale for $50.00. I gave it a try and removed it a day later. " boy what crappy constrruction"!!! we have finally found a company to help us build the Channel MAster Parascope. The prototype is going to be the 6 ft model and its being built in Utah. Hope to be marketing them in Spring of 07.
Rich

I do a lot of recording of the local programs every night and watch them the next day because we can't figure out how to watch 2 or 3 shows at the same time some nights. If the yaggi is so directional do you think I would have a problem getting a solid 95 to 98 signal on 2,4, and 7 all at the same time???

rwantennasat

12-20-06, 01:30 PM

videobruce

12-21-06, 06:53 AM

You seem to forget the 'gestapo' tactics those Nazis used many years ago against who they considered not bowing down to their supreme rule. DirectTV is at the top of my 'drop dead' list. I don't care how many channels they offer.

BTW, 100 HD Lite channels. :rolleyes:

Indiana627

12-21-06, 08:21 AM

What did Directv do that was so bad? I'm being sincere and not sarcastic.

videobruce

12-21-06, 08:57 AM

Check your PMs'.

cwoody222

12-21-06, 09:47 AM

Also, is there any word on when Verizon might start rolling out FiOS TV in the buffalo area? They've had the internet service rolling out for a while now.

It's not up to Verizon. They need approval from local government or - in some cases they've gotten approval state-wide.

Seems like the FCC is trying to make it a bit easier for them (and AT&T) to get said approval.

http://www.buffalonews.com/editorial/20061221/1059640.asp

But I think we're still a ways off. Even once they get approval there's still lots that need to be done - even in the limited areas where the FiOS lines have been run.

philherz

12-21-06, 11:13 AM

Check your PMs'.

Can you give us a hint???

cwoody222

12-25-06, 09:20 PM

Is WNED HD supposed to be on 43 or 17?

It used to show up just fine on my tuner (TiVo Series3) as 43. But suddenly TiVo now thinks it's on 17. I thought maybe WNED was sending PSIP info to map it to 17 but when I tune 17 I get nothing. I still get the picture on 43 which means my TiVo can't record anything on it because it doesn't know where it is.

Before I call TiVo to fix it I'm wondering what it's SUPPOSED to be on - 43 or 17? I never understood why that was the lone Buffalo station not on the channel number we're familiar with.

videobruce

12-26-06, 08:33 AM

The actual channel; 43.
Can you edit the channel list somehow?

cwoody222

12-26-06, 11:47 AM

Nope, you can't edit the channel list. TiVo has to do that. Since the real channel is 43 that means their recent update went from correct to incorrect. I'll have to call/email them. Thanks.

acegolfer

12-26-06, 04:13 PM

Nope, you can't edit the channel list. TiVo has to do that. Since the real channel is 43 that means their recent update went from correct to incorrect. I'll have to call/email them. Thanks.

I'm having similar problem with BeyondTV. But the channel in question is WIVBDT. BeyondTV gives wrong channel tuning information that I can't edit.

Indiana627

12-27-06, 12:43 PM

Is WNED HD supposed to be on 43 or 17?
I was out of town for Christmas and noticed last night when I got back that my Directv HD Tivo now shows WNED as 17-1, 17-2 and 17-3. Before I went out of town, it showed it as 43-1, 43-2 and 43-3. There is no picture on 17-1, but there is a picture on 17-2 and 17-3 (17-2 was showing the HD feed of the Nova submarine show last night).

When I checked it out with the my TV's tuner, it still on 43-1, 43-2 and 43-3. I manually tuned to 17-1, 17-2 and 17-3 and there was no signal.

Anyone know what's going on? And who needs to fix what?

cwoody222

12-27-06, 01:07 PM

Indiana627

12-27-06, 03:12 PM

OK. Please report back if they respond to your email.

BuffaloJim

12-27-06, 10:10 PM

If you were buying a new TV today and had TW Cable, how important would it be to you to get one with a QAM tuner in it? In other words, how many unscrambled channels could I expect to get? I actually have the TW HD box right now, but I was thinking about another TV and I'd rather not have to spring for another set top box every month.

Jim

cwoody222

12-28-06, 12:30 PM

You'll get local HD channels and that's about it. But frankly I think that's important enough to get a QAM tuner. Having to have a rented box on EVERY TV in your home is a bad idea :(

videobruce

12-28-06, 12:40 PM

Not counting the 'garbage' channels (preview etc.) only five 'are in the clear':
WGRZ, WIVB, WKBW, WNED & TBS. Why TBS, I don't know, since it is already on analog ch 26 (in Buffalo) and is duplicated on 111-4.

I believe TW dropped the price of their STB rentals. They want to 'sucker' you into one of these as opposed to CCs' since these are cash cows for them. The temptation of PPV is too great for most to pass up which means more $$ for them. That gives them more control of you!

Indiana627

12-28-06, 01:02 PM

Zap2It must have sent a lineup change to TiVo. Either it's completely wrong or - at best - it's premature (maybe WNED is moving to 17 but haven't completed it yet).

I emailed lineup@tivo.com this morning to get them to look into it and straighten it out.
I sent an email to jkelleher@tribune.com at Tribune Media Services this morning about the WNED-DT issue. He is listed as the General Manager, EPG, (800.523.8923 ext. 5413). Not sure if he's the right guy to email but his title seemed like the best one. Based on other forums I read, I think the problem is more related to Tribune sending bad data to Directv, Tivo, etc., so I think Tribune is the company we need to contact.

sprocto4

12-28-06, 01:41 PM

I was out of town for Christmas and noticed last night when I got back that my Directv HD Tivo now shows WNED as 17-1, 17-2 and 17-3. Before I went out of town, it showed it as 43-1, 43-2 and 43-3. There is no picture on 17-1, but there is a picture on 17-2 and 17-3 (17-2 was showing the HD feed of the Nova submarine show last night).

When I checked it out with the my TV's tuner, it still on 43-1, 43-2 and 43-3. I manually tuned to 17-1, 17-2 and 17-3 and there was no signal.

Anyone know what's going on? And who needs to fix what?

17-1 has been screwed up on the HR10-250 Tivo for years. I would be very surprised if anyone can get it fixed.

Indiana627

12-28-06, 02:44 PM

17-1 has been screwed up on the HR10-250 Tivo for years. I would be very surprised if anyone can get it fixed.
I've had my HR10-250 only since September. From the day I got until I went out of town for Christmas, I got WNED-DT on 43.1, 43.2 and 43.3. The only '17' channel I got was analog 17. When I came back, all the 43s were gone and now I have analog 17, followed by 17.1, 17.2 and 17.3. So it was coming through fine on mine since September. Not sure what happend recently.

sprocto4

12-28-06, 03:47 PM

I've had my HR10-250 only since September. From the day I got until I went out of town for Christmas, I got WNED-DT on 43.1, 43.2 and 43.3. The only '17' channel I got was analog 17. When I came back, all the 43s were gone and now I have analog 17, followed by 17.1, 17.2 and 17.3. So it was coming through fine on mine since September. Not sure what happend recently.

Not sure. If you entered Buffalo as your primary network, you should get 17.1,2,3 with guide data and a blank 17.1 due to an error somewhere. If you do a scan, 43.1,2,3 should come back, but without guide data.

rwantennasat

12-30-06, 11:21 AM

[QUOTE=videobruce]You seem to forget the 'gestapo' tactics those Nazis used many years ago against who they considered not bowing down to their supreme rule. DirectTV is at the top of my 'drop dead' list. I don't care how many channels they offer.

Dont foget everyone on this list Neither Videobruce nor myself are Tv gods or knowit alls . we only put in our feelings and comments based on our own experiences. My experience is 25+ years in satellite off air antennas and commercial cable construction. I can offer ideas and crtiticism ,but you people reading these lists should not consider us as the Gods of HDTV. You need to make your own judgement based on not only what you read from us ,but what you experience for yourselves. I try not to be biased one way or the other allthough I do have may opinions regarding franchised Cable Co's and satellite providers. My personal feeling about SAtellite companies is that they are getting to similar in operation to cable Companies. When it comes to who will survive and offer the consumer the most I pick Directv. I am also a Dish network Dealer. I use to sell more Dish than Directv, however when Dish starts dropping channels based on they're spending rather that of what their viewers want, then they create alot of unhappy customers. In my business i have seen a 40% margin of turnover from Dish to Directv Vs a 7-8% margin going the other way! All that said. Id rather be selling Big c+ku dishes ,but that market died !!!!!! years ago. :cool: