For those interested, AntennaTV has put out the new fall schedule;

http://media.trb.com/media/acrobat/2011-08/274179420-30091531.pdf

For those interested, AntennaTV has put out the new fall schedule;

http://media.trb.com/media/acrobat/2011-08/274179420-30091531.pdf

I saw that today too. They moved some things I wish they hadn't.:( 3's Company is in a better place at 8 though.:)

I saw that today too. They moved some things I wish they hadn't.:( 3's Company is in a better place at 8 though.:)

Not sure what other time they had 3's Company. But I see that show is still on at 12 midnight, in addition to the new time from 8pm to 9pm.

Speaking of Antenna TV -
We just got Directv and the AM21 unit to add subchannels, Greensboro HD locals that Directv doesn't carry, and the Raleigh channels into the DVR. It works really well except for the fact that it's missing some channels...

WGHP 8.2 is there but it says "Searching for signal" even though the other TV picks it up fine. I can get Antenna TV on 17.2, but still...
WVWG 20.2 still has the Video Mix information, not BNT.
WCWG 20.4 (as pointless as it is) is missing.
WLFL 22.2 is missing.
WLXI 43.3 and 43.4 are missing. The WRAY ch 30 TCT group is also missing the .3 and .4
WGSR (all of them) is missing entirely. I tried to select WRPX 47.1 to trick the AM21, but that didn't work.

I realize that all of this has been discussed before, but not too recently. I bring it up to ask if anyone knows who I should report this to. I have gathered from reading about AM21s that the info is downloaded from Tribune. Thanks.

Speaking of Antenna TV -
We just got Directv and the AM21 unit to add subchannels, Greensboro HD locals that Directv doesn't carry, and the Raleigh channels into the DVR. It works really well except for the fact that it's missing some channels...

WGHP 8.2 is there but it says "Searching for signal" even though the other TV picks it up fine. I can get Antenna TV on 17.2, but still...
WVWG 20.2 still has the Video Mix information, not BNT.
WCWG 20.4 (as pointless as it is) is missing.
WLFL 22.2 is missing.
WLXI 43.3 and 43.4 are missing. The WRAY ch 30 TCT group is also missing the .3 and .4
WGSR (all of them) is missing entirely. I tried to select WRPX 47.1 to trick the AM21, but that didn't work.

I realize that all of this has been discussed before, but not too recently. I bring it up to ask if anyone knows who I should report this to. I have gathered from reading about AM21s that the info is downloaded from Tribune. Thanks.

You will need to contact D* and have them reset the receiver. D* does not list WGSR so you will not be able to receiver them over the AM21. The AM21 will only lock on what info is sent via sat EPG.

The issue with having Direct TV and the am21 and not being able to pick up 8-2 has cropped up before on here. Is anyone able to pick this sub channel up with Direct TV in the Triad at this time using the AM21? Foxeng, what are you referring to when you say contact Direct and get them to reset the reciever. I have reset my reciever numerous times and still get the "Searching for signal" message.

You can do a reboot and any bad data should clear up. Just in case, I have contacted D* to have them check to be sure they haven't changed any of the PIDs since the tuner uses data sent from D* for tuning and not over the air scanning.

That is also why you can't receive WGSR with a D* tuner. Their PID info isn't sent to the box so it doesn't know what to do.

After finally having the time, I tried re-booting everything, and nothing changed. I emailed Tribune and told them about all the issues. Shockingly, they wrote back and said they're forwarding it to the appropriate people. I don't expect it to change, but I feel better about whining if I am trying to fix it. I also contacted WCWG and they said they've already tried to get the AM21 info corrected.

Does anyone know a specific brand or model of QAM tuner box that I could use with an analog TV? I tried looking on eBay but all I seemed to find were either OTA DVR boxes or PCI/PCIe/USB options. I was thinking there'd be something small like the DTV converter boxes that came out at the beginning of the transition. If you have any ideas re: brands, model numbers, specific search terms, etc., I'd love any advice.

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p5197.m570.l1313&_nkw=dtv+converter&_sacat=See-All-Categories

Best Buy has them too.

I've got two converter boxes. Do some of those have QAM tuners included? If so, I don't think mine have any kind of pass through for access.

I've got two converter boxes. Do some of those have QAM tuners included? If so, I don't think mine have any kind of pass through for access.

Sorry.. missed that small detail..:o..in that case..best look here:

http://www.epvision.com/

LG LST-3510A's if you can find them are great units.

If you don't need HD outputs...a broken LG DR787T will work very well. You can get these cheap on ebay.

Does anyone know a specific brand or model of QAM tuner box that I could use with an analog TV? I tried looking on eBay but all I seemed to find were either OTA DVR boxes or PCI/PCIe/USB options. I was thinking there'd be something small like the DTV converter boxes that came out at the beginning of the transition. If you have any ideas re: brands, model numbers, specific search terms, etc., I'd love any advice.

None of the $50 converter boxes have QAM tuners in them. By law they couldn't have them in them. You will have to get something like a Samsung DTB-H260F or other "HD" STB. But be careful. Many of the early HD STB's didn't have QAM tuners in them either.

None of the $50 converter boxes have QAM tuners in them. By law they couldn't have them in them. .

Well..they actually do..the software just isn't enabled..same for most Directv boxes with OTA tuners..Sure thought someone would have hacked one of the cheeseboxes by now for that.. :cool:

Well..they actually do..the software just isn't enabled..same for most Directv boxes with OTA tuners..Sure thought someone would have hacked one of the cheeseboxes by now for that.. :cool:

But if you can't get to it, it is just like it not being there.

Since WTVD did whatever it was they did to their signal/antenna, I like a lot of others, can no longer get their signal in Stokesdale. All the other RDU stations come in just fine on my 91XG.

I had gotten a good deal (15.00 new) on the Y10-7-13 antenna when I bought the 91XG so, I grabbed it and was dedicated at 117 and WTVD. The 91XG is on a rotor.


My question is, since the Y10-7-13 is basically doing nothing now, I am trying to figure out if there are other station(s) I can go after or if I could use the antenna in a different manner.

I am very satisfied with the rotor and 91XG combo but, hate to see that antenna going to waste and doing nothing. May have only been 15.00 spent but, Id like to get some use out of it.

Any ideas from you guys and gals that know far more about these things than I do?

Since WTVD did whatever it was they did to their signal/antenna, I like a lot of others, can no longer get their signal in Stokesdale. All the other RDU stations come in just fine on my 91XG.

I had gotten a good deal (15.00 new) on the Y10-7-13 antenna when I bought the 91XG so, I grabbed it and was dedicated at 117 and WTVD. The 91XG is on a rotor.


My question is, since the Y10-7-13 is basically doing nothing now, I am trying to figure out if there are other station(s) I can go after or if I could use the antenna in a different manner.

I am very satisfied with the rotor and 91XG combo but, hate to see that antenna going to waste and doing nothing. May have only been 15.00 spent but, Id like to get some use out of it.

Any ideas from you guys and gals that know far more about these things than I do?
Pointed north to get WSET/13 in Lynchburg?

Thanks for the reply

I can already get WSET and the other Roanoke/Lynchburg channels when spinning the 91XG around on the rotor.

Was hoping to pull in something new or put the antenna to use in another manner..whatever that may be.

I guess I still could just point it towards Roanoke and leave it there to cut down on the rotor use but if possible, would rather use it for something I am not getting currently.

The WTVD signal is not all horizontal now, it is coming at your antenna differently, so changing the antenna by tilting it upward at an angle may help. The circular polarization makes rabbit ears pick up the signal better because people just have them pointing straight up instead of flat like an outdoor antenna. So if WTVD is something you want, you may try pointing the Y-10 with it's elements more vertical.

I wonder if channel 2 is getting ready to go HD for their news. Today I saw a quick teaser promo with the 2 logo and a voice over saying change is coming this fall.

I wonder if channel 2 is getting ready to go HD for their news. Today I saw a quick teaser promo with the 2 logo and a voice over saying change is coming this fall.

Not enough time to get things in place unless they only plan on doing studio cameras. This new GM they have is a former news anchor. They are tinkering with the news content and format, not hardware. That isn't to say he wouldn't love to go HD. The station he came from had just gone HD.

Has the economic downturn and loss of advertising dollars put the squeeze on local news? Not with all stations, but it seems some have really cut back (particulary with the 11 PM news). Staff leaves and isn't replaced, and there seems to be more random news stories from across the country instead of local coverage.

Has the economic downturn and loss of advertising dollars put the squeeze on local news? Not with all stations, but it seems some have really cut back (particulary with the 11 PM news). Staff leaves and isn't replaced, and there seems to be more random news stories from across the country instead of local coverage.

It depends on the station owner. There are a decent number of stations are owned by companies who also own newspapers. Newspapers are bleeding the stations dry since paper readership is way down and e-papers haven't replaced the lost income and that is the one of the major reasons some heritage news stations are shells of their former selves.

Thanks for the reply!

Took me a day or two to find the time..in between the off and on rain of the past two weeks, to get back on the roof and lower the mast so I could adjust it.

I tried to angle it up/down...back/forth to see if made any difference at all but, it did not. I am guessing the change that was made has made it impossible to get from the distance I am from the towers....which is disappointing but, what can yah do?!!


The WTVD signal is not all horizontal now, it is coming at your antenna differently, so changing the antenna by tilting it upward at an angle may help. The circular polarization makes rabbit ears pick up the signal better because people just have them pointing straight up instead of flat like an outdoor antenna. So if WTVD is something you want, you may try pointing the Y-10 with it's elements more vertical.

Thanks for the reply!

Took me a day or two to find the time..in between the off and on rain of the past two weeks, to get back on the roof and lower the mast so I could adjust it.

I tried to angle it up/down...back/forth to see if made any difference at all but, it did not. I am guessing the change that was made has made it impossible to get from the distance I am from the towers....which is disappointing but, what can yah do?!!

I've picked up WTVD down here a few times since the new antenna. I have seen though that people to the west have had problems where people to the east have seen an improvement... I can't explain it... It would be interesting to hear from foxeng on how his reception is now compared to before.:)

I've picked up WTVD down here a few times since the new antenna. I have seen though that people to the west have had problems where people to the east have seen an improvement... I can't explain it... It would be interesting to hear from foxeng on how his reception is now compared to before.:)

To be honest I haven't really noticed. With my super deep fringe antenna, I may not be the best gauge since I always seem to get WTVD.

Directv AM21 tuner update:

WGHP 8.2 Antenna TV: now functioning (has been since the day Foxeng said he would contact Directv. Coincidence? I think not.) Receiver must be set to "original format" aspect but at least it's there!

WCWG 20.2 BNT: Guide info is now correct (no more video mix). Addams Family reruns are always fun.

I also noticed that the WUNL 26 HD on Directv is horrible!! My TV switches from @60 Hz to @24Hz when tuning to this (And only this) channel. Do others see this? It's an easy fix to watch off-air on 4-1 (And 26-1 for those who receive it) but for those without OTA (or TWC QAM), it would be sad.

Directv AM21 tuner update:

WGHP 8.2 Antenna TV: now functioning (has been since the day Foxeng said he would contact Directv. Coincidence? I think not.) Receiver must be set to "original format" aspect but at least it's there!

I contacted them and got the "we don't put subchannels in the Program Guide." I had to explain to them that I was no idiot, was a subscriber, had an H20 and HR20 and it WAS there and explained to them HOW it worked and they needed to fix the PID issue. Of course this was all via email because that level of support is only available to stations via email. I got no response the last exchange. Something must have happened then. I wish News Corp still ran D*. I could get to someone in those days.

I also noticed that the WUNL 26 HD on Directv is horrible!!

Several months ago, I e-mailed WUNC about something and got a response from someone responsible for WUNL. I e-mailed him a link to your post last night and got this response this morning:

There is a problem right now with DirecTV's video on our (WUNL) HD channel. We're still trying to get to the bottom of it. Not every subscriber is experiencing it but as near as we can tell, those using the HDMI cable between the receiver and their HDTV get no video or stuttered video or some other problem. Switching to A/V cables seems to work but we are keeping on DirecTV to get to whatever is causing this.

So you ARE still getting WTVD after they changed things?

Hmmm...



To be honest I haven't really noticed. With my super deep fringe antenna, I may not be the best gauge since I always seem to get WTVD.

Directv AM21 tuner update:

I also noticed that the WUNL 26 HD on Directv is horrible!! My TV switches from @60 Hz to @24Hz when tuning to this (And only this) channel. Do others see this? It's an easy fix to watch off-air on 4-1 (And 26-1 for those who receive it) but for those without OTA (or TWC QAM), it would be sad.


Out of curiosity, is your HDTV a Sony? Some of the troubles we've been seeing are from viewers using an HDMI cable to a Sony HDTV. Seems to have started after a recent software upgrade.

WUNL26, no, it's a Samsung. It is connected through HDMI and Component. I will see what the results are via component and RCA when I get home. Do you know why the Socon games are going to be on the EX channel? I am glad UNCTV is showing the games, and don't want to sound whiny, but HD would be better! Are the UNCTV games replacing Socon Saturday on Sportsouth?

Foxeng, I have seen your beastly antenna on older posts on here, but I never saw what you can get from it. What do you pick up with that animal?

Foxeng, I have seen your beastly antenna on older posts on here, but I never saw what you can get from it. What do you pick up with that animal?

Used to get a lot. Don't get much now! :D

I can tell that WBRA is there, but I have never been able to decode them. I have no idea why.

I get WTVD pretty consistently. In thunderstorms they are hard to keep locked though.
I never received WSET on 13 in the analog days and don't see them now digitally on 13.

You let the band open up just a little and I start to see signs of WOLO on 8 but nothing on a regular basis. I have never seen WSPA or WLOS, analog or digital. If the winds are blowing right, I see WNCT occasionally, but up and down. If the band opens to the coast, WFXI can be seen on occasion, but WCTI seems to be there a little more often than WFXI, but not a lot. I picked up WBTW one time digital, but the band was pretty well open when that happened.

I used to get WECT analog on 6 pretty regularly. I watched their nightlight a lot before they shut down the analog. Would see WWAY analog occasionally when the wind was blowing over WBTV. WSOC was also seen quite a bit. Would see WIS if the wind was blowing right also.
WRAL analog, WDBJ analog, WSLS analog, WTVD analog, were always there and pretty watchable. WITN, WNCT and WCTI analogs were always on band openings even though WDBJ and WITN fought a lot with no clear winner at times.

And when we were on 8, of course, digital and analog.

Beyond that, nothing else normally. Nothing there now anymore.

Impressive distances! I am surprised to see you've never had WSET, but depending on where you live, maybe not surprising. I have noticed a pretty sharp drop-off driving on I-40 where the Roanoke radio stations stop being clear and the TV Fool maps match up with that. When I have the TV scan for channels, it always sits on RF 3 like it's trying so hard to tune something in.
Growing up in Milton, Vermont, my parents had a beast on their roof and it would grab all the Burlington/Plattsburgh channels, nearly all the Montreal channels, and WMTW ch 8 from the top of Mount Washington (until the fire). My cousin down the road had all of those plus 4 and 13 from Ottawa, all the Sherbrooke channels, and 6, 10, and 1 or 2 others from Albany, NY. (145 miles straight-line to Ottawa and Albany). I think they had 45 or something OTA channels, most of them watchable (most of them French speaking) from the top the hill they lived on. Cable was unheard of in our area until the early 90s. Still no cable at their house!
I think you win, though. Columbia and eastern NC are quite a distance!

Growing up in Milton, Vermont, my parents had a beast on their roof and it would grab all the Burlington/Plattsburgh channels, nearly all the Montreal channels, and WMTW ch 8 from the top of Mount Washington (until the fire). My cousin down the road had all of those plus 4 and 13 from Ottawa, all the Sherbrooke channels, and 6, 10, and 1 or 2 others from Albany, NY. (145 miles straight-line to Ottawa and Albany). I think they had 45 or something OTA channels, most of them watchable (most of them French speaking) from the top the hill they lived on. Cable was unheard of in our area until the early 90s. Still no cable at their house!


I have always envied those who live in the NE for the sheer number of stations they could receive from Canada. When we were building our new tower in the mid 2000's, I had to go to Toronto several times since our tower and transmitters were built in the GTA. I also thought Canadian TV was quite quirky. A weird mix of American network shows, many out of pattern (one night on one channel started out a live American Idol followed by Law and Order and then CSI Miami) and some really off the wall Canadian shows. Imagine a cross between BBC and NBC. I really had a hard time wrapping my brain around the Francophone stations since they didn't do ANYTHING like the English language stations. Their presentation was more EARLY PBS with lots of dead space between programs with nothing but a full screen graphic telling what was coming up at what time. Strange to say the least for this Southern born and raised boy.

I hear the Montreal stations are digital and HD now. I have to check THAT out next time I am up there. Versus can't match CBC hockey coverage. The Red Green Show will always be one of the finest programs to grace the TV waves. Channel 35 in Montreal (used to be called TQS) used to (maybe they still do...) air an odd soft-core adult program on Saturday nights that was hours long and then there were live strippers until 6am. What else could follow such programming other than a French Catholic church service. What better way to entertain cable-less teenagers? An antenna and a dream.

I think I saw those channels and shows up there! :D

Receiver must be set to "original format" aspect but at least it's there!

That is because it is transmitted 16:9, not 4:3.

http://www.w4cl.net/fox/snapshot_j_20110927_0000.jpg

Regarding WUNL... I did not know that DirecTV uplinked the various UNC-TV channels. I just figured we all saw a re-mapped version of channel 4 in Chapel Hill. I think that's how Dish Network does it.

Scott,
Here in the east, we see WUNK on Directv.

Since WTVD did whatever it was they did to their signal/antenna, I like a lot of others, can no longer get their signal in Stokesdale. All the other RDU stations come in just fine on my 91XG.

I know a number of people in Stokesdale consistently pick up the Roanoke stations; and the tvfool data confirms that on the map.

(As for the RDU stations) Even though you are now having difficulty receiving WTVD, I think it's pretty good stuff that you are still able to pick up the other Raleigh stations after the 2009 conversion when the RF frequencies changed.

If I am not mistaken, I believe FoxEng indicated this was the time period in which he *lost* access to the Raleigh stations (with the exception of WTVD). I am thinking this was due to the changes in RF assignments in 2009.

I believe he is in GSO while you are farther away from the RDU stations out in Stokesdale. I wouldn't know, but I wonder if you come close to setting the record (for a home owner) for getting these signals from the west/northwest of the tower farm in Garner.

I know the signals from Garner do a better job traveling to the east. But Stokesdale is definitely deep fringe from Garner to the west/northwest.

A 91X is a UHF antenna and if you are trying to pickup WTVD with a 91X from Stokesdale, that isn't going to happen. You will need a VHF high antenna to receive WTVD from Stokesdale.

If the band is the least bit open, I can get the Raleigh stations except for WNCN due to WFXR from Roanoke is on 17 as well and they fight it out.

Roanoke comes in like gang busters with my setup...never had one issue with those stations...WSET has been tempermental in the past but, other than that..no issues with Roanoke.


RDU stations, with the exception of WNCN, were pretty easy to grab....WTVD included. If we get heavy rain/wind they would go out from time to time but, 95% of the time..no issues. Since WTVD made their changes, havent seen it or even come close to getting it. WRAL, WRAZ, the CW and Myntv (22.1 and 28.1) still come in very well. WNCN comes in on "good days" but, it can be a pain as well from time to time.




I know a number of people in Stokesdale consistently pick up the Roanoke stations; and the tvfool data confirms that on the map.

(As for the RDU stations) Even though you are now having difficulty receiving WTVD, I think it's pretty good stuff that you are still able to pick up the other Raleigh stations after the 2009 conversion when the RF frequencies changed.

If I am not mistaken, I believe FoxEng indicated this was the time period in which he *lost* access to the Raleigh stations (with the exception of WTVD). I am thinking this was due to the changes in RF assignments in 2009.

I believe he is in GSO while you are farther away from the RDU stations out in Stokesdale. I wouldn't know, but I wonder if you come close to setting the record (for a home owner) for getting these signals from the west/northwest of the tower farm in Garner.

I know the signals from Garner do a better job traveling to the east. But Stokesdale is definitely deep fringe from Garner to the west/northwest.


The 91XG isnt for WTVD..it is on the rotor for everything BUT WTVD...I have a Y10-7-13 that was/is dedicated to WTVD. If I cant get that back, I want to find another use for that antenna.


A 91X is a UHF antenna and if you are trying to pickup WTVD with a 91X from Stokesdale, that isn't going to happen. You will need a VHF high antenna to receive WTVD from Stokesdale.

If the band is the least bit open, I can get the Raleigh stations except for WNCN due to WFXR from Roanoke is on 17 as well and they fight it out.

Roanoke comes in like gang busters with my setup...never had one issue with those stations...WSET has been tempermental in the past but, other than that..no issues with Roanoke.

RDU stations, with the exception of WNCN, were pretty easy to grab....WTVD included. If we get heavy rain/wind they would go out from time to time but, 95% of the time..no issues. Since WTVD made their changes, havent seen it or even come close to getting it. WRAL, WRAZ, the CW and Myntv (22.1 and 28.1) still come in very well. WNCN comes in on "good days" but, it can be a pain as well from time to time.

Understandably, you want WTVD back. But I think you're still doing very well to have almost two complete sets of out of market locals in addition to all of the Triad stations.

In higher elevated parts of Winston, some of us can reliably see the CLT locals with long range antennas (probably more than cannot versus the ones than can get these signals). But there's not even a tiny hint of any signals from Roanoke and certainly nothing from the RDU market. I think Sauratown Mtn and others mountains north of Winston do a good job of completely blocking the Roanoke signals to Forsyth Co, (except for some areas in Kernersville and Walkertown). And of course, RDU is just too far away from here.

As for your VY10-7-13 antenna that you had dedicated for WTVD, I wonder if you could use it for radio?

foxeng- i see where ejb1980 says he can now get 8-2- I still cannot get it- I am pulling stations with the original CM4228-is 8-2 coming off the low VHF band and that is the reason I can't receive it? Thanks

hmm, Id like to think Im special but, my wife tells me Im not each day!

As for CLT stations...get a couple of those as well...until around 11am each day and after about 7pm...which may make sense to someone, it doesnt make sense to me....I can get WBTV 3.1 and the sub channels, WSOC 9.1 and 9.2 and WCNC 36.1 and 36.2. Those are reliable before and after the times above...sometimes between those time depending on the weather.

I have seen on occasion WCCB and the sub channels .2 and .3, WJZY and the subs, WMYT and the subs but, those are few and far between and not a channel I would even consider being watchable on a regular basis. Dont recall the last time I have flipped over there and seen anything at all on those 3 stations.

Not sure why Im so "lucky" and everyone else not so much. To my knowledge, we are not on any hill around here...the mast is around 40' and above the roof line a good bit but other than that, your guess is as good as mine. No trees of any height close by and the tallest trees around (30-40') are right in line with the RDU stations where the antennas point for those stations!

Havent done anything special, just the mast, two antennas, rotor and a pre-amp. Probably know and understand less than many people on this forum about OTA reception but, guess Im doing something right!

If only I could get my WTVD back! Better not look a gift horse in the mouth eh?





Understandably, you want WTVD back. But I think you're still doing very well to have almost two complete sets of out of market locals in addition to all of the Triad stations.

In higher elevated parts of Winston, some of us can reliably see the CLT locals with long range antennas (probably more than cannot versus the ones than can get these signals). But there's not even a tiny hint of any signals from Roanoke and certainly nothing from the RDU market. I think Sauratown Mtn and others mountains north of Winston do a good job of completely blocking the Roanoke signals to Forsyth Co, (except for some areas in Kernersville and Walkertown). And of course, RDU is just too far away from here.

As for your VY10-7-13 antenna that you had dedicated for WTVD, I wonder if you could use it for radio?

foxeng- i see where ejb1980 says he can now get 8-2- I still cannot get it- I am pulling stations with the original CM4228-is 8-2 coming off the low VHF band and that is the reason I can't receive it? Thanks

We have not operated on channel 8 for over 18 months. We only broadcast off of channel 35. If you are using a DirecTV receiver, some seem to be working now and others not. My HR20 isn't. DirecTV still has something hosed out. As for other receivers, if you are receiving 8-1, you can get 8-2 since it is coming off the same transmitter.

See, I'm not fibbing!

hmm, Id like to think Im special but, my wife tells me Im not each day!

As for CLT stations...get a couple of those as well...until around 11am each day and after about 7pm...which may make sense to someone, it doesnt make sense to me....I can get WBTV 3.1 and the sub channels, WSOC 9.1 and 9.2 and WCNC 36.1 and 36.2. Those are reliable before and after the times above...sometimes between those time depending on the weather.

I have seen on occasion WCCB and the sub channels .2 and .3, WJZY and the subs, WMYT and the subs but, those are few and far between and not a channel I would even consider being watchable on a regular basis. Dont recall the last time I have flipped over there and seen anything at all on those 3 stations.

Not sure why Im so "lucky" and everyone else not so much. To my knowledge, we are not on any hill around here...the mast is around 40' and above the roof line a good bit but other than that, your guess is as good as mine. No trees of any height close by and the tallest trees around (30-40') are right in line with the RDU stations where the antennas point for those stations!

Havent done anything special, just the mast, two antennas, rotor and a pre-amp. Probably know and understand less than many people on this forum about OTA reception but, guess Im doing something right!

If only I could get my WTVD back! Better not look a gift horse in the mouth eh?

Well, your TV reception is certainly special! It's one thing for you to get the Roanoke channels; but I never would've thought any RDU stations would decode as far as Stokesdale. So yea, pretty good stuff for anyone interested in OTA reception. I hope you can get WTVD back, but again, you are still doing very well with what you've got. And WBTV, WCNC and WSOC at night and early morning? That's a total of four different markets (counting the Triad) :cool:

ejb1980- which Direct Tv receiver do you have that is able to pick up 8-2- maybe we can send an email to direct using that as a guide and they can figure out what the problem is for the rest of us. I've got a hr24-500 that I'm unable to connect to 8-2 with

It doesn't really matter what Directv receiver you have; you have to add on an AM21 tuner to the Directv receiver (and a properly set-up/pointed antenna to the AM21).

It would help me to get DirecTV to fix the 8-2 issue if you would send me your receiver type and I will include it in my next contact with them.

You can go to the System Setup/Info and it will tell you the receiver type. Ex. HR20/100.

The only way you can receive 8-2 is to have a tuner either internally (Hx20 series) or the external AM-21 USB tuner connected to all over receivers.

If you want to send me a screen cap showing the channel banner and the error message, like ejb1980 did except he HAD signal, I will send that to.

Guys- I have stated a couple of times in my past posts that I have an am-21- have had one for 2+ years and I have no problem getting 8-1. That is the reason I questioned if 8-2 was coming off low vhf with a signal that my CM4228 could not pick up.Foxeng answered that when he said that 8-2 is coming off the same antenna as 8-1. I said in the previous post that I have an Hr24-500 reciever. I am sure that it is something from Direct Tv's end that is messed up, but when I email them, all I get back is the standard message about re-booting, - are you sure you are getting a good signal, etc.The error message I keep getting is searching for sat signal- error 771- when I have NO problem with viewing any other channel either over the air or on Sat. I can pick up all the stations from Charlotte/ Winston Salem etc over the air with no problem. 8-2 is the ONLY station that I have a problem with see over the air off my am-21 and the guide data shows up for the shows. I have a 42 inch tv in my spare bedroom downstairs that is picking up 8-2 great from it's internal tuner- I have basic cable hoooked up to that TV since I have to have that for my Road-runner internet. Thanks for anything you can get out of Direct Tv on this matter.

Guys- I have stated a couple of times in my past posts that I have an am-21- have had one for 2+ years and I have no problem getting 8-1. That is the reason I questioned if 8-2 was coming off low vhf with a signal that my CM4228 could not pick up.Foxeng answered that when he said that 8-2 is coming off the same antenna as 8-1. I said in the previous post that I have an Hr24-500 reciever. I am sure that it is something from Direct Tv's end that is messed up, but when I email them, all I get back is the standard message about re-booting, - are you sure you are getting a good signal, etc.The error message I keep getting is searching for sat signal- error 771- when I have NO problem with viewing any other channel either over the air or on Sat. I can pick up all the stations from Charlotte/ Winston Salem etc over the air with no problem. 8-2 is the ONLY station that I have a problem with see over the air off my am-21 and the guide data shows up for the shows. I have a 42 inch tv in my spare bedroom downstairs that is picking up 8-2 great from it's internal tuner- I have basic cable hoooked up to that TV since I have to have that for my Road-runner internet. Thanks for anything you can get out of Direct Tv on this matter.

FWIW -- I can't get 8.2 either. Directv, HR22, AM21. I can get 8.2 on my other TVs fed by the same antenna. Fox8 is one of my strongest stations, so I doubt it's a signal level issue. To be honest, I didn't really care enough to troubleshoot but saw this thread here so thought I'd comment.

Here in Winston (near the University) I can get WSOC & WCCB w/ an amplified 2-bay UHF hung on the side of my entertainment center (pointing out the window).

TV Fool says their transmitters are 60 miles away...

The Panthers game dropped out of HD. I'm sure foxeng will let us know the deal.

Sun Outage. The new splicers are to take care of that. Don't know what the deal is. Unless that is what they do!

Its making it VERY hard to watch the Panthers today............

It appears that FOX didn't not set up our splicers correctly. When the second one came through off of the B receiver, they have BOTH splicers set to the B receiver instead of having one set to the A receiver and one to the B receiver to allow us to change between them at will. That is why we lost all signal during the second outage.

Now FOX is saying that our splicers locked up. They have reset them and they seem to be working correctly.

Now FOX is saying that our splicers locked up. They have reset them and they seem to be working correctly.

AFAIK ours were fine today..at least no complaints here on the forum..tho I do have an interesting voice mail from a complete maroon beatching us out over solar transit outages on MeTv that I wish I could upload here for all to hear..:eek:

AFAIK ours were fine today..at least no complaints here on the forum..tho I do have an interesting voice mail from a complete maroon beatching us out over solar transit outages on MeTv that I wish I could upload here for all to hear..:eek:

Have you seen the 15 page PowerPoint on what to with the splicers for sun outage? UNBELIEVABLE! If it is that complicated, then maybe they need to rethink the whole splicer concept.

No, but will with hold my comments here.! :)

WGHP 8-2 is once again gone from the AM21. (8-1 is there and coming in fine.)

WGHP 8-2 is once again gone from the AM21. (8-1 is there and coming in fine.)

Which DirecTV receiver is the AM-21 connected to? I will take all the others I have and going to DirecTV with it on this 8-2 issue.

HR24/500. Now that I think about it, I suspect it was my fault that I lost it. The other day, I reset the AM21 after playing around with it and switched zip codes to see what subchannels are missing from other markets I am familiar with. When I was done, i re-entered Greensboro and Raleigh DMA zips and found WXII and WGPX were COMPLETELY missing so I did a complete AM21 re-set. WXII and WGPX were there and I set it all back up. I didn't notice WGHP 8-2 not having a signal until I posted this today.

I didn't think the AM21 would do this....

Although it thinks I'm watching the Rocky Mount ION station, I am clearly watching WGSR on 47-1. I thought that the AM21 needed the RF channel to be there (in the case of WRPX, ch. 15).

I have seen WRPX on occasion when the leaves are gone. I wonder what will happen when WRPX feels like coming through. I put the 47's in my favorites list and will see what happens.

I didn't think the AM21 would do this....

Although it thinks I'm watching the Rocky Mount ION station, I am clearly watching WGSR on 47-1. I thought that the AM21 needed the RF channel to be there (in the case of WRPX, ch. 15).

I have seen WRPX on occasion when the leaves are gone. I wonder what will happen when WRPX feels like coming through. I put the 47's in my favorites list and will see what happens.

If you look at the banner in your screenshot, it doesn't say WGSR, it says WRPX. Do you have your tuner's secondary market set to Raleigh or maybe your primary market set to Raleigh? That is the only way to get it to display that way. If not, then their data is more screwed up than I thought.

My primary market is Greensboro and secondary is Raleigh. I noted that it shows the Rocky Mount Ion in the banner my last night's post but is really WGSR.

I am wondering why it can substitute WGSR on 47-1 but it can't figure out the 8-2 situation. If you recall, 8-2 was working for me a few weeks ago. 8-1 OTA is just fine.

Generally, I love the AM21 (and Directv). The integration of the subchannels and all available channels is brilliant. We have nearly the complete Greensboro and Raleigh markets channels on the guide. We still have Antenna TV on 17-2, but the PQ is much better on WGHP. (And I am one of "those people" who has to receive everything available OTA, radio included. Call it a hobby. Call it an illness.)

The AM21 also seems to have a good tuner in it. It gets WXII at night but my TV never does.

Troposphere is good tonight for remote viewing. Band is open to the Triad for me in Ft Mill SC and I can see all of the Triad stations including WXII which I haven't ever seen from my location until tonight. Its strong enough currently that Im picking all stations off the side of my antenna currently pointed west. I'm getting the normal Columbia stations that I can regularly see when pointed south off the side as well.

Troposphere is good tonight for remote viewing. Band is open to the Triad for me in Ft Mill SC and I can see all of the Triad stations including WXII which I haven't ever seen from my location until tonight. Its strong enough currently that Im picking all stations off the side of my antenna currently pointed west. I'm getting the normal Columbia stations that I can regularly see when pointed south off the side as well.

I'm seeing ABC from 4 markets tonight.

WSOC - Charlotte
WOLO - Columbia
WXLV - Greensboro
WLOS - Asheville

Troposphere is good tonight for remote viewing. Band is open to the Triad for me in Ft Mill SC and I can see all of the Triad stations including WXII which I haven't ever seen from my location until tonight. Its strong enough currently that Im picking all stations off the side of my antenna currently pointed west. I'm getting the normal Columbia stations that I can regularly see when pointed south off the side as well.

Good to hear the tropo has been open for you this evening. I guess you can catch our local news on WXII, if you want. This is, assuming you are still getting the Triad stations at this hour.

No changes (at least for me). But as usual, I see the stations from the CLT/Gastonia towers with my outdoor Winegard 9095P, in addition to my regular Triad locals.

We have heard that on Oct 31, Halloween, AntennaTV will have an Alfred Hitchcock marathon called "Hitch-o-ween." Sounds great!

Sounds great!

Now if we could only shrink the "8.2" logo...

We have heard that on Oct 31, Halloween, AntennaTV will have an Alfred Hitchcock marathon called "Hitch-o-ween." Sounds great!

You can't go wrong with Alfred Hitchcock. His shows and movies are classic.

It looks like people are watching TV8.2! (Thanks!)

While we don't have official Nielsen Ratings (we don't subscribe for TV8.2 numbers, yet), we have seen some data that would support the statement that a "significant" number of people do watch TV8.2 with some regularity. Which is really great, and a surprise in a way. About 70% of the viewers in the market have direct access to it in one form or another (technically it is 100% that have access to it via OTA, but things aren't counted that way). We have not done any real promotions of the channel other than running an occasional spot on the main channel every now and again and most marketing has been through word of mouth from people watching (that is you!) and we thank you!

We will start running local commercials on TV8.2 in the near future. We have been installing a new program playback system the last 6 months that will run both channels. It is in beta testing now using main channel programming as the test. Once we get all the bugs worked out in testing we will put it on the main channel first and then turn to getting it on TV8.2 and when it goes on line, that is when we will start running local commercials. We should have it all on line by the first of the year if all goes according to plan.

We are pretty stoked about all this. We started working on this after getting TV8.2 on the air first of the year. We also just installed a new newsroom computer system (Wednesday 5pm was the first newscast with it) to replace the 7 year old system we have been using from the FOX days. So while nothing as splashy as going HD has been going on, lots of cool behind the scenes infrastructure stuff has been happening this year. Always something going on!

I wonder if anybody had experience with coax antennas, meaning an antenna that inducts coaxially rather than a dipole or monopole. I'm between Greensboro and Charlotte, and recieve from both markets well with a rather simple bowtie, and actually have used a monopole to some effect. Like most, I want more. I've made a couple of coax antennas, they work, but so far no better than a bowtie. My thinking is 1) eliminating the balun in the line will help, and I think it has, and, 2) if the outside element were large enough in inside diameter, I could use it for VHF. But, I have no clue, and I'm still working things out. I've had some scary results with cap hats. But I can't codify anything, yet.

From my knowledge as an amateur radio operator (extra, the highest class), most antennas are balanced antennas (like a dipole), and really only an antenna that relies on a ground plane (vertical whip, discone which is still just a vertical whip), is an unbalanced antenna.

Now, the transmission line of coax is unbalanced, which is why you have the balun to convert a balanced line to an unbalanced line (BAL-UN), but these losses, while present, are normally not enough to worry about.

What you might consider is making two VERY directional antennas and combining them, and that will get you both markets.

I am in Mocksville, and I actually just have a DB-8 antenna pointed towards Charlotte, but there is enough of a side lobe to get all but 2 and 8 consistently (90% signal or better). I could get 2 and 8 unreliably, but I didn't want that, so I just don't have them. I did get them all with the Double-Bay Gray Hoverman antenna I built from PVC, Ground Wire, and Chicken Wire, but a strong breeze blew it down because I didn't have it secured well enough, and I decided to go commerical so I didn't have to worry about weather when it ices up...

If I really wanted to, I could have done the two antenna route, but there is nothing on those channels that I don't have in another channel, so I am fine.

If you were worried about losses in the line, just use twin lead (keeping at least 2 inches away from any object, especially metal) and take that down as far as you can. The losses in twin lead are negligable compared to coax. However, coax is more convienient, and any real signal loss can be compensated for with a preamp (at the antenna is better, but not always practical).

From my knowledge as an amateur radio operator (extra, the highest class), most antennas are balanced antennas (like a dipole), and really only an antenna that relies on a ground plane (vertical whip, discone which is still just a vertical whip), is an unbalanced antenna.

Now, the transmission line of coax is unbalanced, which is why you have the balun to convert a balanced line to an unbalanced line (BAL-UN), but these losses, while present, are normally not enough to worry about.

What you might consider is making two VERY directional antennas and combining them, and that will get you both markets.

I am in Mocksville, and I actually just have a DB-8 antenna pointed towards Charlotte, but there is enough of a side lobe to get all but 2 and 8 consistently (90% signal or better). I could get 2 and 8 unreliably, but I didn't want that, so I just don't have them. I did get them all with the Double-Bay Gray Hoverman antenna I built from PVC, Ground Wire, and Chicken Wire, but a strong breeze blew it down because I didn't have it secured well enough, and I decided to go commerical so I didn't have to worry about weather when it ices up...

If I really wanted to, I could have done the two antenna route, but there is nothing on those channels that I don't have in another channel, so I am fine.

If you were worried about losses in the line, just use twin lead (keeping at least 2 inches away from any object, especially metal) and take that down as far as you can. The losses in twin lead are negligable compared to coax. However, coax is more convienient, and any real signal loss can be compensated for with a preamp (at the antenna is better, but not always practical).

I appreciate the response. I've never known when a program director will get some twitch, and decide something for me I won't like, so I will keep as many stations from whatever markets I can. I'm fine on the broadcast networks, I have duplicates of all of them. But I'm greedy. In my head, I see the balun as throwing a station or two "over the cliff". I'd much prefer twinlead , but that introduces the balun. As a matter of information, 50% of the preamps I've tried in the last few years would not pass a signal, the other 50% quit after a few days, whether or not they actually amplified anything. Could be my bad luck, though others have told me they were nothing like they were 30 years ago. I'll never be satisfied, and I want something better than 30 years ago. Incidently, I like the Gray Hoverman, even if I'm not sure its better than a bowtie. I believe that TV antenna design is actually devolving when it should be advancing. I'll keep trying. Thanks again for the response.

I could get 2 and 8 unreliably, but I didn't want that, so I just don't have them.

Well that is disappointing. :(

Well that is disappointing. :(

I do watch the WGHP subchannel a bit. Feel better?:)

I do watch the WGHP subchannel a bit. Feel better?:)

A little. ;)

A little. ;)

I think there is a near 100% chance the FCC will sell off another batch of TV channels in the next few years. Hear any buzz about that? I like to be prepared, if I can be. Adjacent channels don't seem to bother each other, but, getting the same channel too close to each other will be a problem; there is a station on rf 47 in Raleigh-Durham, the Triad and Charlotte, for example. I think it nows causes problems. And there are other over overlaps in RDU and Charlotte. Medium distance ducting is already an issue. I doubt it is diagnosed, as the phenomenon will cause no picture or sound, rather than obvious interference.

I think there is a near 100% chance the FCC will sell off another batch of TV channels in the next few years. Hear any buzz about that? I like to be prepared, if I can be.

As with everything in Washington, a new resident in the White House changes everything. At this point, Congress is NOT on board with this. The broadcasting lobby is very strong. This will go for a while and if it passes, it will wind up in court. This could go for years and years and years so don't be throwing in the towel, just yet.

Adjacent channels don't seem to bother each other, but, getting the same channel too close to each other will be a problem; there is a station on rf 47 in Raleigh-Durham, the Triad and Charlotte, for example. I think it nows causes problems. And there are other over overlaps in RDU and Charlotte. Medium distance ducting is already an issue. I doubt it is diagnosed, as the phenomenon will cause no picture or sound, rather than obvious interference.

WGSR channel 47 in Reidsville is a low power station and therefore has no interference protection unlike the full power stations in Charlotte and Raleigh.

A little. ;)

When talking about the Piedmont Triad stations, WGHP is my favorite, especially for the news. I also like Antenna TV on 8-2 :)

As with everything in Washington, a new resident in the White House changes everything. At this point, Congress is NOT on board with this. The broadcasting lobby is very strong. This will go for a while and if it passes, it will wind up in court. This could go for years and years and years so don't be throwing in the towel, just yet.

WGSR channel 47 in Reidsville is a low power station and therefore has no interference protection unlike the full power stations in Charlotte and Raleigh.

I sure hope you're right. But it would be nice if the NAB stepped up their efforts in getting the general population better educated on this topic. They don't have to sound alarm bells. But my perception is that the vast majority of the population knows little to nothing about the so called spectrum crunch and surrounding debates. People cannot support a cause (such as OTA) when they don't know what is going on around them with the issue.

When talking about the Piedmont Triad stations, WGHP is my favorite, especially for the news. I also like Antenna TV on 8-2 :)

Check is in the mail! :D

Speaking of AntennaTV, I heard a rumor, I can't repeat at the moment because I don't know if it is true or not so as soon as I can tell I will, but it sounds like something special is planned for Christmas. If true, I think people will like it.

Oh, a programming note from all the stations, radio and TV.

Next Wednesday, November 9 around 2pm, FEMA will, for the first time EVER in broadcast history, have a mandatory test of the EAN Alert system. This is the old national nuclear alert system that has been a part of the old EBS and now EAS Emergency systems. It has NEVER been tested in 50 years of existence. So they think now is a good time to do this.

This is normally triggered by the White House in case of a nuclear attack, but FEMA, in cooperation with the FCC will trigger this test and all radio and TV stations MUST participate. We have no choice. No one is sure how well this will work since it has never been tested. They did two dry runs in Alaska last year with disappointing results so the response was "lets go national with it!" We have been told this will be the first of reoccurring tests to be scheduled for the future.

We have been told the audio has NO reference to a test, where TV HAS to put up a graphic that says it IS a test. I personally think there will be A LOT of frightened people. They just are not used to this type of test.

Anyway, your broadcast experience will be disrupted on that day. Just to let you know.

For more info, you can go to the NAB site, http://www.nab.org/documents/advocacy/EAS/EAS.asp or the FCC, http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-nationwide-test and FEMA, http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm

Oh, a programming note from all the stations, radio and TV.

Next Wednesday, November 9 around 2pm, FEMA will, for the first time EVER in broadcast history, have a mandatory test of the EAN Alert system. This is the old national nuclear alert system that has been a part of the old EBS and now EAS Emergency systems. It has NEVER been tested in 50 years of existence. So they think now is a good time to do this.

This is normally triggered by the White House in case of a nuclear attack, but FEMA, in cooperation with the FCC will trigger this test and all radio and TV stations MUST participate. We have no choice. No one is sure how well this will work since it has never been tested. They did two dry runs in Alaska last year with disappointing results so the response was "lets go national with it!" We have been told this will be the first of reoccurring tests to be scheduled for the future.

We have been told the audio has NO reference to a test, where TV HAS to put up a graphic that says it IS a test. I personally think there will be A LOT of frightened people. They just are not used to this type of test.

Anyway, your broadcast experience will be disrupted on that day. Just to let you know.

For more info, you can go to the NAB site, http://www.nab.org/documents/advocacy/EAS/EAS.asp or the FCC, http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-nationwide-test and FEMA, http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm


I'm going to have to do some recording to check this :D


BTW - how will this impact CABLE channels ?
Hopefully it will not be the CF you are anticipating.

Oh, a programming note from all the stations, radio and TV.

EAS Emergency systems. It has NEVER been tested in 50 years of existence. So they think now is a good time to do this.

The question is in my mind, why do they think it necessary now? I am not a conspiracy theorist, but the date 11/9/11 makes me wonder if doing it on that date is just a coincidence?


We have been told the audio has NO reference to a test, where TV HAS to put up a graphic that says it IS a test. I personally think there will be A LOT of frightened people. They just are not used to this type of test.

I think you are right.

It has NEVER been tested in 50 years of existence.


This test is a joke..they have every engineer and program director at every Radio & Tv station jumping thru hoops for it..So of course it will work. Do a real test by making it a surprise to everyone. Of course, they won't do that because they know it would fail miserably.

Oh, a programming note from all the stations, radio and TV.

Next Wednesday, November 9 around 2pm, FEMA will, for the first time EVER in broadcast history, have a mandatory test of the EAN Alert system. This is the old national nuclear alert system that has been a part of the old EBS and now EAS Emergency systems. It has NEVER been tested in 50 years of existence. So they think now is a good time to do this.

This is normally triggered by the White House in case of a nuclear attack, but FEMA, in cooperation with the FCC will trigger this test and all radio and TV stations MUST participate. We have no choice. No one is sure how well this will work since it has never been tested. They did two dry runs in Alaska last year with disappointing results so the response was "lets go national with it!" We have been told this will be the first of reoccurring tests to be scheduled for the future.

We have been told the audio has NO reference to a test, where TV HAS to put up a graphic that says it IS a test. I personally think there will be A LOT of frightened people. They just are not used to this type of test.

Anyway, your broadcast experience will be disrupted on that day. Just to let you know.

For more info, you can go to the NAB site, http://www.nab.org/documents/advocacy/EAS/EAS.asp or the FCC, http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-nationwide-test and FEMA, http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm

Are you saying that just about the time McHale fires two torpedoes at a Jap sub, a graphic with a potentially catastrophic message will appear, and the torpedoes will go off?

Are you saying that just about the time McHale fires two torpedoes at a Jap sub, a graphic with a potentially catastrophic message will appear, and the torpedoes will go off?

Yes.

This test is a joke..they have every engineer and program director at every Radio & Tv station jumping thru hoops for it..So of course it will work. Do a real test by making it a surprise to everyone. Of course, they won't do that because they know it would fail miserably.

So true. Perhaps some government official(s) came up with this idea for their own agenda. When the expected outcome (success) occurs after the test, they can then feel like they have earned some brownie points. What a great idea they came up with and how wonderful the outcome was :rolleyes:

Doing a real test by making it a surprise would be the better plan versus having engineeers and program directors jumping thru hoops in preparation for this special date.

Doing a real test by making it a surprise would be the better plan versus having engineeers and program directors jumping thru hoops in preparation for this special date.

If it takes so much prep for a test, how are they going to do an "instant alert" in the event of a serious event?

I thought that is what network cut-ins were for...

Remember the purpose of the EAN was for the President to have direct access to the public via media at the drop of a hat in case of nuclear attack. That is why there is no test function for it. It has never been needed. I am betting it is being done for two reasons, someone at HLS is trying to justify their job/salary and/or trying to cover their butts in case something does happen, like a dirty bomb or such. After 9/11 there was a big debate in the media whether 9/11 warranted EAN activation. On reflection, most agree it should have even though every radio and tv station was carrying it. I think that is where this is coming from.

Remember the purpose of the EAN was for the President to have direct access to the public via media at the drop of a hat in case of nuclear attack.

FOX / FOX News, CNN, MSNBC, ABC, CBS, NBC,PBS..etc..could do it far quicker than the ridiculous antiquated "trickle down" EAS system...:rolleyes:

FOX / FOX News, CNN, MSNBC, ABC, CBS, NBC,PBS..etc..could do it far quicker than the ridiculous antiquated "trickle down" EAS system...:rolleyes:

You didn't finish reading the rest of it Bob.

After 9/11 there was a big debate in the media whether 9/11 warranted EAN activation. On reflection, most agree it should have even though every radio and tv station was carrying it.

You didn't finish reading the rest of it Bob.

Yes I did. Re-inforcing YOUR point Chas..:)

[QUOTE=jspENC;21161835]The question is in my mind, why do they think it necessary now? I am not a conspiracy theorist, but the date 11/9/11 makes me wonder if doing it on that date is just a coincidence?




Or that 11-11-11- is two days later. Personally, I think 12-12-12 is more more potent date. Many have no use for the Mayan calendar suggestion that time will end next December. But I am so sure something will happen that I have money on there being no 13-13-13.

[QUOTE=jspENC;21161835]The question is in my mind, why do they think it necessary now? I am not a conspiracy theorist, but the date 11/9/11 makes me wonder if doing it on that date is just a coincidence?




Or that 11-11-11- is two days later. Personally, I think 12-12-12 is more more potent date. Many have no use for the Mayan calendar suggestion that time will end next December. But I am so sure something will happen that I have money on there being no 13-13-13.

:eek: You are thinking ahead of me! The way things are going down fast in this country, I don't think anything can be ruled out anymore. Everything we are told is lies from our leaders.

I have noticed that there are two ACC Network games on this weekend. I have seen it before (perhaps it is always this way.) WRAL and Fox 50 are both playing ACC games; UNC-State and Virginia-Maryland, respecively. Yet there is only 1 game in Greensboro (UNC-State on Fox 8). Last year, I seem to remember ACC games of some sort on MY48. Was that the "other" feed? Am I "mis-remembering?"

WXLV and WMYV are both owned by Sinclair Broadcasting. Last year WXLV carried the main ACC games. When there were two games, the second would go on WMYV.

WGHP is not connected with another station in the market so the second game is open to another station. WGHP picked the UNC-NCSU game. Looks like no one took the other game.

We had only one game out of New Bern too.

Oh, a programming note from all the stations, radio and TV.

Next Wednesday, November 9 around 2pm, FEMA will, for the first time EVER in broadcast history, have a mandatory test of the EAN Alert system. This is the old national nuclear alert system that has been a part of the old EBS and now EAS Emergency systems. It has NEVER been tested in 50 years of existence. So they think now is a good time to do this.

This is normally triggered by the White House in case of a nuclear attack, but FEMA, in cooperation with the FCC will trigger this test and all radio and TV stations MUST participate. We have no choice. No one is sure how well this will work since it has never been tested. They did two dry runs in Alaska last year with disappointing results so the response was "lets go national with it!" We have been told this will be the first of reoccurring tests to be scheduled for the future.

We have been told the audio has NO reference to a test, where TV HAS to put up a graphic that says it IS a test. I personally think there will be A LOT of frightened people. They just are not used to this type of test.

Anyway, your broadcast experience will be disrupted on that day. Just to let you know.

For more info, you can go to the NAB site, http://www.nab.org/documents/advocacy/EAS/EAS.asp or the FCC, http://www.fcc.gov/encyclopedia/emergency-alert-system-nationwide-test and FEMA, http://www.fema.gov/emergency/ipaws/eas_info.shtm

That sure was the most painless test I have ever experienced. Almost like it didn't happen. When was it, anyway?

That sure was the most painless test I have ever experienced. Almost like it didn't happen. When was it, anyway?

2:01.

The test got to NC, but then it got derailed on the broadcast side by a radio station in the Raleigh market that sent the test twice and mangled the audio in the process so many of the stations in the state couldn't decode it. The ones who did were in the eastern part of the state. No one is really sure what happened to the version that was received in the western part of the state. It had no audio with it so it didn't propagate either.

At least we didn't have the issue they had in the northeast. In one area, during the test people were "entertained" with Lady Gaga's Paparazzi.

This turned out about the way I thought it might.

When I was in radio, I worked at an LP-1 and NO ONE knew how to run the EAS properly, not even me and of everyone there I was one who would have cared the most. The training we were given was abysmal. I had to do one RWT and screwed it up royally.

Say what you will about Clear Channel but the way they have NexGen interfaced with the EAS goes a long way in situations like this.

2:01.

The test got to NC, but then it got derailed on the broadcast side by a radio station in the Raleigh market that sent the test twice and mangled the audio in the process so many of the stations in the state couldn't decode it. The ones who did were in the eastern part of the state. No one is really sure what happened to the version that was received in the western part of the state. It had no audio with it so it didn't propagate either.

At least we didn't have the issue they had in the northeast. In one area, during the test people were "entertained" with Lady Gaga's Paparazzi.

This turned out about the way I thought it might.

Thanks.

I'm not sure I feel well about what the Government might do next.

Does anyone else notice that MY48 is very right-channel heavy in the audio? I notice it on Directv, TWC QAM, and OTA.

So any EAN comes not through a sat link or cable/fiber, but over the air relayed point-to-point via radio stations (clear-channel)?

2:01.
The test got to NC, but then it got derailed on the broadcast side by a radio station in the Raleigh market that sent the test twice and mangled the audio in the process so many of the stations in the state couldn't decode it. The ones who did were in the eastern part of the state. No one is really sure what happened to the version that was received in the western part of the state. It had no audio with it so it didn't propagate either.

At least we didn't have the issue they had in the northeast. In one area, during the test people were "entertained" with Lady Gaga's Paparazzi.

This turned out about the way I thought it might.

So any EAN comes not through a sat link or cable/fiber, but over the air relayed point-to-point via radio stations (clear-channel)?

It comes via multiple paths. This test was designed to use OTA broadcast as the transport medium once it got into the states.

The Lady Gaga relay also made it onto DirecTV...

Before I left home today I set a manual record on WRAL and CNN at 1:55-2:05. WRAL aired the botched double alert from Raleigh (sounds like WPTF). CNN was cut by a DirecTV logo'd slide with "Paparazzi" by Lady Gaga as the audio.

I've read online that TWC is now allowing you to pickup cable cards/tuning adapters and do installs yourself.

I'm really thinking about adding a TiVo to the house, and I was wondering if this was in effect in the Winston-Salem area yet?

I've read online that TWC is now allowing you to pickup cable cards/tuning adapters and do installs yourself.

I'm really thinking about adding a TiVo to the house, and I was wondering if this was in effect in the Winston-Salem area yet?

You can use TiVo with TWC. You will need a cable card from TWC plus a tuning adaptor from them. Once the cable card is installed in your TiVo, someone at TWC in Tech Support will have to activate the card so that it will tune the cable channels through your TiVo.

Someone at their Hanes Mall location had previously told me they allowed self installs. However, (recently) I was told that was no longer the case. You must make an appointment to have someone come out to your house. Supposedly, there is no charge for the house call. However, if you plan on having TWC install this, I would confirm any charges for the house visit while you have them on the phone.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/localhd111011.htm

WFMY-TV, the CBS affiliate in Greensboro, North Carolina, will begin broadcasting all local newscasts in HD on Sunday, November 13.

The station, which is owned by Gannett, will make the switch with the 11 p.m. newscast on Sunday. TVNewsCheck.com writes that the station says the high-def debut will also include a new control room and studios.

WFMY-TV is calling the conversion to HD, "News 2.0."


“News 2.0 is the combination of new technology, a fresh presentation, and most importantly, relevant local news content,” stated WFMY President-GM Larry Audas. “Over and over, Triad viewers have confirmed the findings of our full-year research project on what they want in local news. Folks are weary of repetitive sameness and predictable news by formula, so to speak. News 2.0 content, focus and presentation aim to report what viewers say really matters."

There are now more than 400 local stations nationwide producing the news in HD.

From what we hear it is HD in the studio only. In the Press Releases HD is hardly mentioned.

From what we hear it is HD in the studio only. In the Press Releases HD is hardly mentioned.

It that is the case, it sounds like WGHP will still hold the lead in the HD arena out of all of the Triad stations. But interesting news that WFMY is getting HD in their studio.

It that is the case, it sounds like WGHP will still hold the lead in the HD arena out of all of the Triad stations. But interesting news that WFMY is getting HD in their studio.

That is actually the way most stations do it. Studio only to start with. Converting to HD is expense if you do it all at once, like we did. Gannett, who owns WFMY owns a lot of print media and doesn't have the cash flow that they used to have and uses the money for the TV stations to keep the papers afloat. Gannett is not unusual. Media General, who owns the Winston-Salem Journal also owns TV stations and it takes all the money from the TV side to keep their print side going.

In the press release, it pushes the change in content and the "studio garden" that they have built. HD is just mentioned in passing. My guess is because they aren't going full HD as we are. Swanni pushed the HD part in his story since he mostly caters to the HD crowd.

Honestly, I am surprised WXII hasn't already gone HD. But it looks like WXII will be last again. They were last to go widescreen and will be for HD, when they do. But to be totally candid, we didn't expect to be the only HD news station in the market for this long either, but we will take it! :D

it looks like WXII will be last again

Is WXLV still getting a news broadcast produced by the TWC/News 14 Carolina people? Last I read, it was set to go live in January but I haven't seen it mentioned in quite a few months.

Is WXLV still getting a news broadcast produced by the TWC/News 14 Carolina people? Last I read, it was set to go live in January but I haven't seen it mentioned in quite a few months.

News14 on WXLV is still a go as far I know. I hear News14 is building new studios by the airport. I could comment beyond that, but txengineer works at WXLV, so I will defer to him for any further comments on that.

That is actually the way most stations do it. Studio only to start with. Converting to HD is expense if you do it all at once, like we did. Gannett, who owns WFMY owns a lot of print media and doesn't have the cash flow that they used to have and uses the money for the TV stations to keep the papers afloat. Gannett is not unusual. Media General, who owns the Winston-Salem Journal also owns TV stations and it takes all the money from the TV side to keep their print side going.

In the press release, it pushes the change in content and the "studio garden" that they have built. HD is just mentioned in passing. My guess is because they aren't going full HD as we are. Swanni pushed the HD part in his story since he mostly caters to the HD crowd.

Honestly, I am surprised WXII hasn't already gone HD. But it looks like WXII will be last again. They were last to go widescreen and will be for HD, when they do. But to be totally candid, we didn't expect to be the only HD news station in the market for this long either, but we will take it! :D

Yes, I am surprised too about WXII. I know they are owned by the Hearst Corporation. And supposedly, Hearst is one of the largest US television station groups (without holdings of newspapers--at least that I am aware of). So you would think they'd be in a better position than some corporations to get HD, at least in the studio at WXII. I wouldn't know for sure, but maybe the priorities of Hearst are with other local affiliates that they own throughout the country.

WXII is the third oldest surviving TV station in North Carolina. And their signal off Sauratown Mountain has always seemed reliable, even many years ago when I lived much further away from them.

But, as you said, it looks like WXII is going to be last again as it relates to local HD news. WGHP is still my preferred Triad station for local news, and the HD content just makes it better.

News14 on WXLV is still a go as far I know. I hear News14 is building new studios by the airport. I could comment beyond that, but txengineer works at WXLV, so I will defer to him for any further comments on that.

I haven't followed it closely. But as I understand things, WXLV has struggled in the past in terms of maintaining local news--going on and off the air with it. Perhaps, one of the issues is the fact that they've had to compete against other local affiliates that were established long before WXLV. Not only that, the Triad market is only so big.

It that is the case, it sounds like WGHP will still hold the lead in the HD arena out of all of the Triad stations. But interesting news that WFMY is getting HD in their studio.

Well WGHP seems to have set the standard for HD in Greensboro. Nevertheless the HD studio upgrade at WFMY should offer a very nice visual improvement, especially if they have built a nice new set. And hopefully they won't try to crowd a widescreen set into a smallscreen studio. I noticed in Orlando a few weeks ago that the HD news sets there were more spacious and appeared less crowded than the ones in Charlotte. WESH and WFTV both looked very good. Now, in my area, I'm just waiting for WYFF and WCNC to upgrade to HD, but they don't really appear to be in any hurry.

Well WGHP seems to have set the standard for HD in Greensboro. Nevertheless the HD studio upgrade at WFMY should offer a very nice visual improvement, especially if they have built a nice new set. And hopefully they won't try to crowd a widescreen set into a smallscreen studio. I noticed in Orlando a few weeks ago that the HD news sets there were more spacious and appeared less crowded than the ones in Charlotte. WESH and WFTV both looked very good. Now, in my area, I'm just waiting for WYFF and WCNC to upgrade to HD, but they don't really appear to be in any hurry.

I agree in that it should offer a nice visual improvement for WFMY, especially if the set is spacious. I will be interested to view their local news after the upgrade to see what it looks like.

As for WCNC, they are certainly lagging behind the other Charlotte locals in terms of upgrading their set. I guess it's anyone's guess when Belo Corp will decide to spend the money.

WFMY's building is quite old (late 50's/early 60's?). Not sure how large their studio is. Master Control was in a hallway until the early 90's. It has been better than 20 years since I have been over there so I have no idea what they have done over there.

WFMY's building is quite old (late 50's/early 60's?). Not sure how large their studio is. Master Control was in a hallway until the early 90's. It has been better than 20 years since I have been over there so I have no idea what they have done over there.

Times change. WFMY's facilities are several decades old, but built when there was a good deal of varied local studio programming. Now that studio space is just about all used for "news". The local conversion to HD is somewhat like, and different, from the local change to color in the 1960's. WGHP stayed behind in color, but there was good reason. It needed to get on the air and produce revenue before all else. For several years I've used a CRT DTV reciever, and do not think I benefit much from my HD reciever except during live outdoor programs. I still think the true Digital SD (as opposed to converted to analog) on a CRT is pretty good, better contrast and thus hue. The HD pic is wider, but at the distances I watch, not really better than the CRT SD. The point is, if one has a 1080i large screen reciever, HD is a real advantage. Sort of like color was 50 years ago. If one had a color set, one wanted color programming. Not many had a color set. Not many have a HD set that can really take advantage of HD now. For now, if I had to lose my 480p CRT or my 720p LCD, I'd take the CRT. I don't know what I'd think if I had cable. I might give up TV.

Well WGHP seems to have set the standard for HD in Greensboro. Nevertheless the HD studio upgrade at WFMY should offer a very nice visual improvement, especially if they have built a nice new set. And hopefully they won't try to crowd a widescreen set into a smallscreen studio. I noticed in Orlando a few weeks ago that the HD news sets there were more spacious and appeared less crowded than the ones in Charlotte. WESH and WFTV both looked very good. Now, in my area, I'm just waiting for WYFF and WCNC to upgrade to HD, but they don't really appear to be in any hurry.

WFMY seems to have already running for a few days on a new set with the anchors in front of a blue-screen, then superimposed over a graphic. That is fine for the weather forecast, but it seems a bit creepy to me for a whole newscast. Maybe the ghost fringing will go away when they convert to HD.

WFMY seems to have already running for a few days on a new set with the anchors in front of a blue-screen, then superimposed over a graphic. That is fine for the weather forecast, but it seems a bit creepy to me for a whole newscast. Maybe the ghost fringing will go away when they convert to HD.

WFMY has been using the green screen for a couple of weeks as they redo the set. My guess is due to the short time that has passed, it isn't as much of a set change as you might think. We completely redid our set and it took 3 weeks just to get it built, much less wire it and it was already pre-built before it even arrived. Unless the conversion to HD started before the new GM arrived, there just hasn't been enough time to pull a complete makeover. It took us 10 months from start to launch.

I am as much in the dark about specifics as anyone else on here, but if I had to guess, there will be a new wider desk to take advantage of 16:9, (we did that) new background flats, and lots of monitors, some started to show up a week or so ago on air. Will the green screen be a large part of it? I suspect so. Unless they got a 3D graphics system, the green screen virtual set parts will not look very good.

When you see Van Denton do his virtual weather during the 10 O'clock News on us, that is a 3D graphic behind him and why it looks fairly realistic. Van actually stands on a green painted piece of linoleum that is attached to a green wall. That green wall is actually in the other studio, not the news studio (yes, we have two green screens one in each studio) and is beside the Gifts For Kids set immediately to the right. That is one of the reasons why the Gifts set is in a corner this year, so to speak. If the picture isn't framed correctly for the Gifts set, you may see the back of the TV set that is used so Van can see where he is located within the graphic. We call this, "Walk On Weather." When the wall isn't in use, there is a blue cyc curtain that is pulled in front of it so it doesn't show up on air by accident when they use the studio in the morning for performers.

Gannett uses the same graphics at all the stations, SD or HD so that will not be changing. My guess is their package was built in HD to start with and either they have been using a HD graphics box in SD, as we did or they have been using a SD version of the package. That does cut down on time. When we went HD we put in a whole new 3D system and built our own graphics and that took 6 months in itself start to air and that was pushing it pretty hard. Not sure how much use of the "garden set" they will get, but I suspect, they will have Eric out there every chance they get to push it. Actually, outside weather sets are so 1990's within the industry so I am not so sure why they are going this route. Well I think I do. It is something different that no one else is doing. That is the big thing now, do something, anything, different from your competitors and push the crap out of it.

We'll see what WFMY debuts but from what I am hearing, it may not live up to the hype and that is why they are pushing the "content" so much. We shall see. As they say, "That is why they play the game."

From a post I read from Facebook, it appears there will NO news desk on the new WFMY set. That will be interesting.

From a post I read from Facebook, it appears there will NO news desk on the new WFMY set. That will be interesting.

Sounds like they are trying to do something different there. Not sure I like the sound of that, but would have to see it to be the judge. I prefer to see the anchors sitting behind a desk, with the occaisonal stand ups in front of a monitor or super imposed graphic. I don't really like the way the anchors on WBTV are always standing behind the desk, with no chairs.

I caught the tale end. It looks the same except for being HD. Still looks like public access. I didn't catch the "meat" of the news, but I honestly don't expect much. It will take a miracle for WFMY or WXII or even the News 14 on WXLV to match the quality of Fox 8.
On a side note, I think that the screen when Van Denton is standing on the "wood floor" at the beginning of the weather segment is by far the weakest part of the entire Fox 8 newscast. It looks extremely fake and cheesy. That's just my opinion, the rest of it is great.

I only watched the first several minutes. The lack of a desk wasn't disconcerting but it certainly seemed odd. Compared to what I've seen over the last week or so, what I saw tonight certainly looked better than them standing in the middle of a picture.

I was burning a DVD on the HD set, so I watched on a SD set - I didn't notice any marked improvement from what it looked like previously (we usually settle for WFMY news.) I did see Eric in the 'garden' for the teaser but turned it off before they came back from commercial.

As much as it surprises me, I'm looking forward to the WXLV entry. I'm hoping they have fewer annoying/distracting on-air people than the current 'big 3'.

My guess is due to the short time that has passed, it isn't as much of a set change as you might think. We completely redid our set and it took 3 weeks just to get it built, much less wire it and it was already pre-built before it even arrived.

We'll see what WFMY debuts but from what I am hearing, it may not live up to the hype and that is why they are pushing the "content" so much. We shall see. As they say, "That is why they play the game."

I've seen News 2 a couple of times now since the change; and I can certainly understand why they are pushing 'content'. The HD change isn't anything all that impressive, and it doesn't look like they spent much time redoing it either. I also think it's kind of weird to have a newscaster standing there continuously with no desk. It's one thing to have the weatherman doing this; but it looks odd to see it with the main anchor for the entire news. The set at WGHP looks much better in my opinion.

It looks like they have some HD field cameras, but they have had a few older HDV cameras for a while. Their live shots are definitely in SD and still using the old analog intercity relays. In SD, the video quality wasn't as noticeable as it is in HD. You can clearly see the ringing and the artifacts of 3.5 MHz video bandwidth. Until those intercity relays are changed to digital, that won't go away.

Most opinions I have heard have been pretty much along the lines of evan237. The reality doesn't meet the hype. We were watching in the shop yesterday and three of the days big stories they refuse to cover over air and directed people to see those stories on their web page. WOW! All I can say then is, "Keep doing what you are doing! No complaints from us!" (nor WXII I bet!) :D

The set at WGHP looks much better in my opinion.

Thanks for the kind words!

I guess the "no desk" is the next kind of way to make cuts to save money? lol

Times changing some more. WGHP is clearly ahead in local production. I'm not sure WFMY collectively understands it is no longer the triad blowtorch. 40, even 30 years ago, WFMY had a real advantage with its lowband VHF signal. Older stations, WFMY, WBTV, WRAL, all had that advantage. Cable ate at the advantage, other things came along, and the advantage died with digital transmission. WXII, maybe, retains a disadvantage with its transmitter location. At any rate, WGHP has the advantage, now. 5 years might bring things not seen right now. They may be good, but might not be. I can see a liitle market fragmentation, geographic, or, other niches. I am certain that in 10 years, what we will have in broadcast TV probably will not be like what we have now. I don't think that audiences will be getting used to the same on air personalities and programs as they have in the past, there may be no comfortable TV in the future.

Thanks for the kind words!

Glad to share the kind words. We all know cosmetics is not everything. But even if the content was equal (which I don't feel it is), HD just looks better and is more pleasing on the eyes. I think the added time and money that WGHP spent was well worth it in terms of gaining a competitive advantage.

I would find watching standing anchors to be awkward and annoying, especially without a desk. At least on WBTV they have the desk, but I really don't understand why they are standing as well. I'm sure ch 2 looks better visually, but the style of presentation sounds a bit gimmicky.

I would find watching standing anchors to be awkward and annoying, especially without a desk. At least on WBTV they have the desk, but I really don't understand why they are standing as well. I'm sure ch 2 looks better visually, but the style of presentation sounds a bit gimmicky.

Visually speaking, it seems okay if a main anchor is standing--provided there is a desk (such as on WBTV). Although sitting behind the desk is more traditional.

Of course, the weather segment on any news channel is different because it is short in duration and so it looks natural to see the weather person standing during the presentation. In this regard, nothing looks out of place to see Eric Chilton standing in the WFMY News 2 Weather Garden while providing the weather forecast.

I guess it is part of the 'new look' that WFMY is trying with the main anchor standing for the entire news. But I say, get those anchors at WFMY a desk :D

I can sit here and tell you everything wrong as well as very thing right with WFMY's newscast. I can do the same with WXII. I can also do it with ours as well. I watch newscasts differently than the average viewer and what I see is not what you see even though it is the same newscast. That is why my opinion doesn't count.

Things are done to make things look familiar to create connections to viewers that the public never picks up on. It has been that way since the first newscast hit the air. Case in point, we have had the rotating cube since 2006. It is a FOX trademark. Everyone knows that. It would appear that WFMY thought now would be a good time to introduce ............ a rotating cube. It offers familiarity and the viewer may be more willing to watch since there is that familiarity. Sometimes things like that works, sometimes it doesn't. I have noticed that their cube is in HD in some newscasts and others in SD. Don't know what the deal is there. Ours is always in HD! ;) Again, most people never notice that. Stuff like that.

Again, my opinion doesn't count since I can't be a "Nielsen Family" so I try not and say anything. You are entitled to watch whatever you want. We work to try and get you to watch us. We hope you do. And so does our competition.

Competition is a good thing, no matter what the competition says about it. :)

Visually speaking, it seems okay if a main anchor is standing--provided there is a desk (such as on WBTV). Although sitting behind the desk is more traditional.

Of course, the weather segment on any news channel is different because it is short in duration and so it looks natural to see the weather person standing during the presentation. In this regard, nothing looks out of place to see Eric Chilton standing in the WFMY News 2 Weather Garden while providing the weather forecast.

I guess it is part of the 'new look' that WFMY is trying with the main anchor standing for the entire news. But I say, get those anchors at WFMY a desk :D


Evan:

The trend in OTA newscasts is to have the element of "action" and constant movement to denote energy in the program even in the studio. This is why I believe that they have the anchors standing in many occasions.

Frankly I too find it distracting, and it takes your focus off what the anchor is saying , I too have been in the business and also notice many things that the producers and directors are aiming for in the program.

The stations spend a LOT of time researching things like this which they believe will attract more viewership. Like foxeng mentioned folks that produce and construct a format spend many hours refining what they believe will entire folks to stay tuned. Not that this critical element has changed, but the way it is done has certainly changed.

Dubber

I watch newscasts differently than the average viewer and what I see is not what you see even though it is the same newscast...my opinion doesn't count since I can't be a "Nielsen Family"

My degree is in Advertising. I've told people for years that I'm not a reliable resource because I view ads differently than just about anyone else. When I worked for the W-S Journal and HP Enterprise, I always had to answer in the affirmative whenever we got a phone survey and the qualifying question was "Does anyone in your household work in the media...?"

That said, I don't have any experience in TV, broadcasting or news production of any kind. I'm just an interested viewer. I lived away from the Triad for over 20 years. Even though I'm not yet 50, I still think of Cameron Kent (in his 1st stint), Rick Amme and Fred Blackman as the three Triad anchors. (Even after all these years, I occasionally hesitate when tuning to ABC to remember that it's not WGHP. Some old habits die very hard indeed. :cool:)

I mentioned here many months ago that I wish there was a 'dream team' available - newsreaders (as those across the pond sometimes refer to them) from here, weather person from there, sports person from another.

Speaking of which, does anyone know if the upcoming WXLV/News14 amalgamation will have new and/or dedicated on air people or if they'll be re-purposed from the existing News14 staff?

I will add that the constantly active backgrounds whether chroma key or actual and active elements in the graphics drive me crazy. I wonder if I am alone in this, I find that aspect of today's newscasts absolutely irritating and it distracts me from concentrating on the actual content that is being delivered to me.

In Charlotte, I think the newsroom integrated set on WSOC looks the most impressive, and also features scenic skyline backdrops on the side. And they have the right mix of anchors at the desk and occaisonal standups in front of a monitor or green screen superimposed image. They do a very good job of presenting and promoting their product.

I will add that the constantly active backgrounds whether chroma key or actual and active elements in the graphics drive me crazy. I wonder if I am alone in this, I find that aspect of today's newscasts absolutely irritating and it distracts me from concentrating on the actual content that is being delivered to me.

I also am annoyed by the need to keep pointless visual interest. TV's finest hour was the Kennedy assassination, but , as everything, it was a two edged sword. That business created "news stars". As Marshall McLuhan was saying, the medium was becoming the message. A "special report" or "news bulletin" or even a "newscast" became in itself as important as anything else. But TV news can still come close to its original promise. Last night's tornado coveage was outstanding by all 3 triad news outlets.

Speaking of which, does anyone know if the upcoming WXLV/News14 amalgamation will have new and/or dedicated on air people or if they'll be re-purposed from the existing News14 staff?

I think the real question is if there is any room in the market for a fourth local TV news operation. I'm not going to name stations, but IMHO there is one professional news operation and two scraping by on a shoestring.

I think the real question is if there is any room in the market for a fourth local TV news operation. I'm not going to name stations, but IMHO there is one professional news operation and two scraping by on a shoestring.

If memory serves, this is an outgrowth of the retrans dispute between Sinclair and TWC last year. At this point, TWC probably gets the better end of the deal by giving them exposure to the other 50% of the viewers of the market who do not subscribe to TWC.

In the end, historically, a fourth newscast hasn't been of any conscience to WFMY, WGHP and WXII. There was some thought that the 10pm news on WMYV could have eroded our numbers since surveys show people like having the earlier late news so they can get to bed, but in the end, it didn't really effect us. If I remember correctly, the highest rating it ever got was a 1.2. We average anywhere from a 9 to 13 depending on our lead in and what else is on the other networks at the time. Most times we win the time slot though.

I don't think anyone thinks News 14 on WXLV will be a ratings killer. Will it have viewers? Sure. Even a test pattern in the middle of the night has a rating. But no one thinks this is a threat to WFMY or WXII at 11pm. The real question is, "How long will it last?"

If memory serves, this is an outgrowth of the retrans dispute between Sinclair and TWC last year.

I thought I remembered it being a corporate decision - either Sinclair said all their stations had to have a newscast or ABC said all their affiliates had to have one. I might well be confusing that with something else though...

I thought I remembered it being a corporate decision - either Sinclair said all their stations had to have a newscast or ABC said all their affiliates had to have one. I might well be confusing that with something else though...

This is an outgrowth of that ultimatum I believe. ABC is on many Sinclair stations in larger markets and with no local news (St Louis immediately comes to mind), it really hurts ABC. This is a cheap way for Sinclair to get local news to keep the network affiliation and not have to spend the money it takes to run a news operation.

I have heard through sources not connected with my company say that ABC would LOVE to get us back as an affiliate. Any truth to that? Who knows? It isn't on our radar at the moment, I know that. We still have 7 years to go on our current FOX contract. Lots can happen in 7 years. And at the moment, we are the number one FOX affiliate in the nation. So I suspect FOX would fight for us on that one if it ever came to that.

If memory serves, this is an outgrowth of the retrans dispute between Sinclair and TWC last year. At this point, TWC probably gets the better end of the deal by giving them exposure to the other 50% of the viewers of the market who do not subscribe to TWC.

In the end, historically, a fourth newscast hasn't been of any conscience to WFMY, WGHP and WXII. There was some thought that the 10pm news on WMYV could have eroded our numbers since surveys show people like having the earlier late news so they can get to bed, but in the end, it didn't really effect us. If I remember correctly, the highest rating it ever got was a 1.2. We average anywhere from a 9 to 13 depending on our lead in and what else is on the other networks at the time. Most times we win the time slot though.

I don't think anyone thinks News 14 on WXLV will be a ratings killer. Will it have viewers? Sure. Even a test pattern in the middle of the night has a rating. But no one thinks this is a threat to WFMY or WXII at 11pm. The real question is, "How long will it last?"

There is something else in play here, that might, or might not, be significant. Star News has a hard knot of viewers in the areas above Greensboro. Part of that is the coverage of smaller communities. And part is the style of Star News. If WGSR moves into Greemsboro with its news ops, leaving the Danville station to cover some other areas, there could be an impact. Star News is low on glitz and high on content. There are viewers who will respond. The shoestring this organization works on can be a real disadvantage, but also a real advantage. WGSR can devote most of its airtime to news, if required. And not pull punches. 3 years ago the idea that Star News could become a Triad player was laughable, but I don't think so now. A lot of factors will go into whether WGSR emerges, but it could happen. In one direction, Star News could disappear....in another, WGSR could use sub-channels to establish news niches, that could hurt some other outlets.

If WGSR moves into Greemsboro with its news ops, leaving the Danville station to cover some other areas, there could be an impact. Star News is low on glitz and high on content. There are viewers who will respond.

That is HIGHLY unlikely for MANY reasons (no disrespect to Matt Smith or his station intended). I could go into them but Matt would defend his station to the hilt and quite frankly, I don't feel like a fight over something that isn't really a factor now or in the foreseeable future.

Just ask yourself this one simple question. If a full power station that had the resources couldn't crack the news market (twice), what makes you think a low power station with limited coverage and even more, limited resources doing tabloid/ambush/crime blotter news could do any better? They do very well in the Reidsville environs and obviously make a decent buck in the process. Why mess that up in this economy? I would go with the sure bet on that one. As the old saying goes, "A man has to know his limitations."

This is a tremendously ferocious news market. I have seen it with my own eyes.

That is HIGHLY unlikely for MANY reasons (no disrespect to Matt Smith or his station intended). I could go into them but Matt would defend his station to the hilt and quite frankly, I don't feel like a fight over something that isn't really a factor now or in the foreseeable future.

Just ask yourself this one simple question. If a full power station that had the resources couldn't crack the news market (twice), what makes you think a low power station with limited coverage and even more, limited resources doing tabloid/ambush/crime blotter news could do any better? They do very well in the Reidsville environs and obviously make a decent buck in the process. Why mess that up in this economy? I would go with the sure bet on that one. As the old saying goes, "A man has to know his limitations."

This is a tremendously ferocious news market. I have seen it with my own eyes.

This response is reasoned, and, correct, within the box that broadcasters have created here. That box might not represent the perfect model now. This model developed in the 1960's and is based on realities of that time. I'm not sure the basic model will work now unless every player stays in it. The is no Natural Law making the "Triad" a single market. While I am aware of the economic situation presently, I believe its dynamics are not that obvious. The Marx Brothers had effectively retired when the Great Depression sent them back to work. Synchronized optical film sound, network radio, epic color motion pictures all arose during the Depression, in addition to the development of electronic TV. The buds were all there, but it was the Depression, for whatever reason, in which the blooming happened. Groucho Marx became an international icon, rather than an obscure stage performer; so did Jack Benny and WC Fields. I can't discount the power of what seem bad economic times.

This response is reasoned, and, correct, within the box that broadcasters have created here. That box might not represent the perfect model now.

But the ratings do. If the station was making the inroads you claim, the ratings in Reidsville would show that. They don't.

A low power like that can do quite well in those environs. Small town off the beaten path and you localize the crap out of it. You can make a good living doing that and they are. But you can't upscale that to a region the size and diversity of the Piedmont Triad. You have three major metropolitan areas that are as different as day and night. Just the diversity between Greensboro and High Point are legendary and they are in the same county. You can see how hard WFMY, WGHP and WXII fight it out between themselves and they have the coverage and resources to do it.

That is one reason of many.

When you think of local newscasts, Fox 8 does it right, nearly flawlessly. The graphics are professionally modern but not distracting. The spinning "8" is not annoying to me. It's not too long (like the WTVD newscast). It's not broken up into pieces separated by other programming (like WFMY, NBC 17). It's the perfect mix of local and national. It's hosted by two professional anchors and a knowledgeable weather man who clearly knows the area well.

I rarely watch the others in the Triad. When it comes to local TV in this area, Fox 8 and WRAL are by far the best and speak for the need to keep local and OTA TV alive in the USA. For the reasons Foxeng spoke of, WGSR is perfect for Reidsville-Danville and should not try to talk about Greensboro and the "big cities" as that's not their place (although the G in WGSR suggests that, at least at some point, they wanted to be a legit force in Greensboro) The best part about WGSR is - by far - the local commercials from up that way!

The Fox 8 news isn't perfect, but it's very close.- I would take the HD bug and move it somewhere where the "chopped" non-HD news on cable would not see it. I would somehow change the ticker during the sports because it's VERY hard to read. And I would change Van's overly-fake wood floor. Those three things are very minor and content is most important and the Fox 8 news has good content that is delivered and presented in an extremely impressive and professional way.

But the ratings do. If the station was making the inroads you claim, the ratings in Reidsville would show that. They don't.

A low power like that can do quite well in those environs. Small town off the beaten path and you localize the crap out of it. You can make a good living doing that and they are. But you can't upscale that to a region the size and diversity of the Piedmont Triad. You have three major metropolitan areas that are as different as day and night. Just the diversity between Greensboro and High Point are legendary and they are in the same county. You can see how hard WFMY, WGHP and WXII fight it out between themselves and they have the coverage and resources to do it.

That is one reason of many.

I'll leave things with this, and whatever respmse will be fine. I was speculating on things that could occur, not on what has happened, as that would be stating facts. So, I'm not stating facts. I'm speculating, based on history. A Greensboro channel on the WGSR transmitter may never happen. Or it might. The current news players have circumstances that all but require coverage of a very wide area. A station such a WGSR has no such requirement. Star News began with a cable channel in Martinsvillle, and now has broadcast stations in Reidsville and Danville. That operation could get derailed at any time, but shows no signs of contraction yet. WGSR has some penetration in Greensboro even though it does not program for that city. My speculation involves such an event such as Greensboro programming, should it happen. This operation has demonstrated steady slow expansion, and that may or may not continue. I point to a possibility.

But the ratings do. If the station was making the inroads you claim, the ratings in Reidsville would show that. They don't.

A low power like that can do quite well in those environs. Small town off the beaten path and you localize the crap out of it. You can make a good living doing that and they are. But you can't upscale that to a region the size and diversity of the Piedmont Triad. You have three major metropolitan areas that are as different as day and night. Just the diversity between Greensboro and High Point are legendary and they are in the same county. You can see how hard WFMY, WGHP and WXII fight it out between themselves and they have the coverage and resources to do it.

That is one reason of many.

IMHO, I have to agree. I would be highly surprised if WGSR made any big inroads beyond their regional coverage north of Greensboro. As stated on here, it takes a lot of money to put on local news coverage for a larger market. I just don't see how WGSR could do that unless they were able to get their hands on a lot of money while completely reinventing themselves in the process. Yes, anything is possible. But in today's economy, it seems highly unlikely.

As for WXLV, we all know they have tried and failed at local news coverage in the past. Any of us that have lived around here for a while have seen it happen. Perhaps, having their local news provided by TWC may help Sinclair meet certain regulatory requirements with ABC. But from all appearances, it seems their local news coverage would be nothing more than a reincarnation of News 14 Carolina from TWC, with no unique character of its own. Yes, that may give WXLV some viewers who don't have TWC. However, I doubt their local news will take away too many viewers from the big three stations in the Triad.

I doubt their local news will take away too many viewers from the big three stations in the Triad.

You are probably right. You know the old line, "If you're anything like me, and I know I am..."? I can't help but believe there are people like me who would watch something else/anything else for a change. There's something on each of the big 3 that annoys me to the point of wanting to change channels or turn it off. When I said that we settle for WFMY, I genuinely meant that - it not so much a choice as resigning ourselves to watching something. The novelty of WXLV/News14 may wear off quickly but I'm looking forward to a 4th choice for as long as it lasts.

You are probably right. You know the old line, "If you're anything like me, and I know I am..."? I can't help but believe there are people like me who would watch something else/anything else for a change. There's something on each of the big 3 that annoys me to the point of wanting to change channels or turn it off. When I said that we settle for WFMY, I genuinely meant that - it not so much a choice as resigning ourselves to watching something. The novelty of WXLV/News14 may wear off quickly but I'm looking forward to a 4th choice for as long as it lasts.

It's all a matter of personal preference and of course what a viewer has available to them in any given area. Personally, I tend to watch WGHP local news more than the other Triad locals. I just feel their content is better, and the HD in the studio and out in the field is an added bonus. I tend to watch their 10pm local news a lot during the week.

But I would watch (and do watch) something else for a change. With my long range fringe antennas, I can watch the CLT locals. My OTA setup would probably be considered overkill to most people in my immediate area. But I appreciate having access to all of the channels I receive.

As for WXLV, I just don't see them making big inroads against their competition WGHP, WXII and WFMY. A large percentage of viewers in the Piedmont Triad have TWC and so they have access to News14 Carolina. I could be wrong. But as I said before, (in my view) I would suspect any news produced by TWC for WXLV will be nothing more than a reincarnation of News14.

This is just my two cents worth ;)

I like the region-specific weather forecasts on WSOC.

I wish a Triad station would do something similar, at least for the NW mountains.

As for WFMY, tonight's broadcast looked like it was filmed in a Dibertesque cube farm.

In Charlotte, I think the newsroom integrated set on WSOC looks the most impressive, and also features scenic skyline backdrops on the side. And they have the right mix of anchors at the desk and occaisonal standups in front of a monitor or green screen superimposed image. They do a very good job of presenting and promoting their product.

From all of us at FOX8 WGHP, we wish you and your family a wonderful, happy and safe Thanksgiving!

And don't get an overdose of tryptophan! :D

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/4e/WGHP.jpg

Forgot to mention earlier in the week with all the craziness this week has brought on and off the air:

Congratulations to the FOX 8 WGHP news team for it's NINE Regional Emmy nominations (the most of ANY Piedmont-Triad TV Station): including News Excellence, Continuing Coverage, Light Feature, News Series, Special Assignment Report, Sports Segment, Historic/Cultural Program, Editor-News, and Photographer News!!!

Among the two other news stations in the market they only garnered two nominations between them. (and both went to one station only). The Regional News Emmy's will be awarded in March in Nashville. TN.

AntennaTV has announced on Christmas morning, they will air the Yule Log. For those of you from the New York area, as you know, the Yule Log is legendary. It has aired on WPIX for years. Since Tribune Broadcasting owns WPIX and AntennaTV, they are bringing the Yule Log to AntennaTV.

And you may ask, "What is the 'Yule Log'"? It is video of a nice warm roaring fire with Christmas music. It runs all morning long. You can Google it. It is there if you want to see what it looks like.

TV8.2 will be carrying it.

Well, I would rather watch Christmas themed episodes of the sitcoms they carry, or perhaps Christmas themed movies. But, I probably won't be watching that much TV that day anyway. Maybe some news. And, in years past, 55.1 has showed the yule log, but not sure about this year since it will apparently be on 46.2. And I always like the Andy Griffith episode where they have Christmas in the jail.

The Yule Log is great! We would put it on every Christmas morning when I had Dish Network and could get WPIX and KTLA.

And you may ask, "What is the 'Yule Log'"? It is video of a nice warm roaring fire with Christmas music. .

I have that on my media server..However regardless of how you watch it..
it just isn't the same when it is 65 degrees outside..so if Tv 8.2 can bring some cold air for Christmas that would be really great. :)

Well, I would rather watch Christmas themed episodes of the sitcoms they carry, or perhaps Christmas themed movies.

They will be running those too!

The Yule Log is great! We would put it on every Christmas morning when I had Dish Network and could get WPIX and KTLA.


Wow I remember the Yule Log...it ran for almost 24 hours straight back in the 80s over Christmas eve and morning on WPIX 11 in NYC. We all used to watch it play on TV while opening Christmas presents!

If you don't have a fire place it's a great substitute. Memories of childhood come rushing back when I see this program.

I do remember that when WPIX cancelled it in the early 90s the management received a LOT of nasty letters!!! Very serious nasty letters. :eek:

This is just a personal observation of mine from yesterday's VT shooting coverage by the local stations who were all in Blacksburg. I think it shows where each stations emphasis, technical, is.

WFMY did a phone in with no video. WXII did Internet video that was in a box smaller than 4:3 safe title area. We had full HD video, live reports as well as the video packages we shot.

Just thought it was an interesting comparison.

Oh, we also were available for FOX News Channel reports up through 8pm and they too were in HD.

This is just a personal observation of mine from yesterday's VT shooting coverage by the local stations who were all in Blacksburg. I think it shows where each stations emphasis, technical, is.

WFMY did a phone in with no video. WXII did Internet video that was in a box smaller than 4:3 safe title area. We had full HD video, live reports as well as the video packages we shot.

Just thought it was an interesting comparison.

Oh, we also were available for FOX News Channel reports up through 8pm and they too were in HD.

Yup, WGHP did a good job of covering it and of course full HD video in the field is better.

We sent two reporters to the Thursday press conference with cameras. Virginia Tech was nice enough to provide us streaming video of both the Thursday and Friday press conferences, which we aired live and in their entirety over all three of our stations. Our reporter Bob Sharp seems to be the first to actually make the connection, in his questions, that the second victim may have been the shooter.

We did rely on some video footage from WSLS in Roanoke to fill in the gaps. That's what cooperation and sharing our footage on stories gets us.

Matt Smith
WGSR-LD/WMDV-LD/Cable 18 Martinsville
Star News Corporation

Yup, WGHP did a good job of covering it and of course full HD video in the field is better.

Keep in mind that some in the industry feel that internet video, though grainy and often pixilated, gives the story a sense of urgency and ups the tune-in factor.

Keep in mind that some in the industry feel that internet video, though grainy and often pixilated, gives the story a sense of urgency and ups the tune-in factor.I saw Internet video feeds on some TV stations around here... I thought it came across as cheap...

It is cheap. But I guess $60/month to Verizon for a data card is better than rolling the sat truck.

It is cheap. But I guess $60/month to Verizon for a data card is better than rolling the sat truck.

No. It IS all about cheap. That is why you have some stations doing one man band crews. The reporter shots, reports and edits the package and then "emails" it back to the station. It is MUCH cheaper than using two or three people (photog, reporter and editor at the station), and a microwave truck/sat truck. And is just a fact. One microwave truck can cost up to $225k fully outfitted.

That cost is part of being a news organization. It's annoying to hear so many excuses made for poor quality local TV.

Besides, what do you care? Your station is (one of the few) still doing things the right way. Be proud of that.

That cost is part of being a news organization. It's annoying to hear so many excuses made for poor quality local TV.

Besides, what do you care? Your station is (one of the few) still doing things the right way. Be proud of that.

Oh, I am very proud of that.

But the truth is there is a tremendous financial pressure on all stations. It is how the station chooses to deal with it. Many will make money by saving money, a strategy that rarely works over the long haul. I can name stations, radio and TV, that have saved themselves right out of business. It is a common tale.

Others will embrace technology to help the bottom line. There are various ways to that too. One is relying on the Internet to provide the transportation median to save the money. Over time, in my opinion, the public will tire of video images they can't make out. People are spending too much money on large TV's to have video that works best on a smart phone. Breaking news or the only way to get a compelling story back (like a hurricane) is one thing. To use it as your normal method of reporting, is another.

Another method is to automate as much as possible to allow people to do the things that can't be automated. Even this method has pit falls that can kill a station.

Consolidation of stations is another. It too has its pros and cons.

That is what happening in the industry today. You might see that as an "excuse" but that is the reality. Good or bad.

For what it's worth - WUNL 26 on Directv is no longer broadcasting in 1080p @24 Hz with a blocky picture; it is now 1080i @60 like it should be.

For what it's worth - WUNL 26 on Directv is no longer broadcasting in 1080p @24 Hz with a blocky picture; it is now 1080i @60 like it should be.

I guess I haven't had any issues with the University network since the funny they pulled a couple of years back. The network had 4 SD prograns on during thr day, which I thought was good. A decision was made to cut to an HD and 2 SD programs, for technical reasons involving cable providers.
The 3rd Sd program continued on Time Warner Cable. For some reason that set me off, and I told the "Center" not to expect any check from me. I guess the reason I got set off was that I was still deluded that University Television was something other than just television. I've gotten over it.

There was discussion about the poor quality of UNC TV in HD on Directv ch 26 a little while back, that's what I was referring to. The "MX" 3rd SD subchannel is a good channel. It's a shame it's only on TWC, but luckily it is on QAM for those of us with TWC internet.

http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-08/58138234-26093932.jpg

To celebrate their 1 year anniversary, AntennaTV is presenting on New Year's Day 16 hours of The Three Stooges, starting at 8a ET. Here's the link to the schedule: http://antennatv.tv/antv-antenna-tv-nye-marathon-20111212,0,4539292.acrobat

http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-08/58138234-26093932.jpg

To celebrate their 1 year anniversary, AntennaTV is presenting on New Year's Day 16 hours of The Three Stooges, starting at 8a ET. Here's the link to the schedule: http://antennatv.tv/antv-antenna-tv-nye-marathon-20111212,0,4539292.acrobat

How perfectly appropriate to celebrate a presidential campaign yesr. Bravo.

The TWC "headend" is discussed here a bunch. This is a quick behind-the-scenes look at the headend in NYC:

97ID2u0SJtM

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/16/tv-channel-squeeze-propos_0_n_1154002.html?

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/16/tv-channel-squeeze-propos_0_n_1154002.html?

I would not count on losng any right away. The FCC will in time take away some channels, but, this local market is better off than some. There hasn't been any piggybacking so far. that is, two or more stations on the same channel. Piggybacking is an option. Also, there is a VHF option. That's not good, but better than leaving the air, and hoping to stay on cable. While there may be little to worry about as to stations going completely dark, there is a matter of variety that may suffer. Some sub-channel programing might be gone. As a matter of opinion, I'd say the market should decide things, but based on reasonable regulation. Taking away more broadcast channels may noy be reasonable.

I would not count on losng any right away. The FCC will in time take away some channels, but, this local market is better off than some. There hasn't been any piggybacking so far. that is, two or more stations on the same channel. Piggybacking is an option. Also, there is a VHF option. That's not good, but better than leaving the air, and hoping to stay on cable. While there may be little to worry about as to stations going completely dark, there is a matter of variety that may suffer. Some sub-channel programing might be gone. As a matter of opinion, I'd say the market should decide things, but based on reasonable regulation. Taking away more broadcast channels may noy be reasonable.

Hopefully, this won't happen anytime soon with the election year on the horizon. And if/when it does, let's hope it's not RF31-RF51. If that happens, it looks like many stations here in the Triad would be sent packing to another frequency; and I wouldn't count on the government paying for it.

I suppose the consequences in some parts of the country could be far worse in the scenario if RF31-51 disappear. That's a big piece of the pie that broadcasters currently use....especially since VHF is undesirable for digital/HD broadcasting. And we all know that RF14-30 is not available in every viewing market since every one of the neighboring (out of market) local television channels must be taken into consideration.

What I'd really like to know is why our current FCC has apparently done nothing to get local broadcasters involved in this so called national broadband plan. I guess (as usual) it comes down to dollars and cents; and the fact that there is a much greater incentive to attempt to auction frequencies off to the highest bidder.

In my view, we can only hope we get a new FCC that supports our local broadcasters (nationwide) while allowing them to be part of the solution versus the target of the spectrum debate.

Hopefully, this won't happen anytime soon with the election year on the horizon. And if/when it does, let's hope it's not RF31-RF51. If that happens, it looks like many stations here in the Triad would be sent packing to another frequency; and I wouldn't count on the government paying for it.

I suppose the consequences in some parts of the country could be far worse in the scenario if RF31-51 disappear. That's a big piece of the pie that broadcasters currently use....especially since VHF is undesirable for digital/HD broadcasting. And we all know that RF14-30 is not available in every viewing market since every one of the neighboring (out of market) local television channels must be taken into consideration.

What I'd really like to know is why our current FCC has apparently done nothing to get local broadcasters involved in this so called national broadband plan. I guess (as usual) it comes down to dollars and cents; and the fact that there is a much greater incentive to attempt to auction frequencies off to the highest bidder.

In my view, we can only hope we get a new FCC that supports our local broadcasters (nationwide) while allowing them to be part of the solution versus the target of the spectrum debate.

The National Association of Broadcasters has all but admitted to failure in representing its members. Spectrum allocation is not really a partisan issue, so I doubt any future FCC will consist of more broadcast sympathetic commissioners. The NAB seems willing to let this go forward as a voluntary program. To most people, broadcast TV is just not a concern, so there will be no outrage no matter what is done. The idea of a government of laws is sort of passe, and, one can expect whatever comes will mostly be made up as it happens.

The National Association of Broadcasters has all but admitted to failure in representing its members. Spectrum allocation is not really a partisan issue, so I doubt any future FCC will consist of more broadcast sympathetic commissioners. The NAB seems willing to let this go forward as a voluntary program. To most people, broadcast TV is just not a concern, so there will be no outrage no matter what is done. The idea of a government of laws is sort of passe, and, one can expect whatever comes will mostly be made up as it happens.

You are correct in saying that spectrum allocation is not really a partisan issue. Indeed there are government officials from both parties who are sympathetic to the wants/desires of such groups as the Wirelesss Association, and the Consumer Electronics Association, as well as their friends at the FCC. But with the current bills, it does seem the one in the House offers more protections for broadcasters versus the current bill in the senate.

As far as broadcast TV not being a concern to most people, I would also agree. But in my view, I think it is more to do with the fact that the general public (outside of forums such as this) generally has no awareness or understanding about the ongoing spectrum debate. I would also suspect that most people that use cable or satellite exclusively have never thought about the fact that our free press (OTA) offers some checks and balances in the pricing of video services. And I know this all too well when I cut off TWC completely... only for them to come back a few days later and guarantee me the new customer rate for a full year. This was only done when they found out I had my own antennas at the house. Watch out if the day ever came with cable and satellite companies having sole authority to transmit video services :eek:

What really needs to be discussed is the role broadcasters (themselves) could play in providing services to internet devices. But from all appearances, it would seem the FCC does not want to entertain that idea, but rather continue to make broadcasters the target.

The idea of broadcasters going away (in the short term) is very unlikely. But when you continue to have government officials that are fighting to chip away at the spectrum, it is very bad for the future of broadcasting. It potentially means reduced coverage areas, degradated signals, and in some cases (perhaps) stations going off the air entirely in larger metropolitan areas. I feel strongly that the NAB needs to take a more agreesive stance on this very important topic. For sure, it is not a debate that will be going away any time soon.

You are correct in saying that spectrum allocation is not really a partisan issue. Indeed there are government officials from both parties who are sympathetic to the wants/desires of such groups as the Wirelesss Association, and the Consumer Electronics Association, as well as their friends at the FCC. But with the current bills, it does seem the one in the House offers more protections for broadcasters versus the current bill in the senate.

As far as broadcast TV not being a concern to most people, I would also agree. But in my view, I think it is more to do with the fact that the general public (outside of forums such as this) generally has no awareness or understanding about the ongoing spectrum debate. I would also suspect that most people that use cable or satellite exclusively have never thought about the fact that our free press (OTA) offers some checks and balances in the pricing of video services. And I know this all too well when I cut off TWC completely... only for them to come back a few days later and guarantee me the new customer rate for a full year. This was only done when they found out I had my own antennas at the house. Watch out if the day ever came with cable and satellite companies having sole authority to transmit video services :eek:

What really needs to be discussed is the role broadcasters (themselves) could play in providing services to internet devices. But from all appearances, it would seem the FCC does not want to entertain that idea, but rather continue to make broadcasters the target.

The idea of broadcasters going away (in the short term) is very unlikely. But when you continue to have government officials that are fighting to chip away at the spectrum, it is very bad for the future of broadcasting. It potentially means reduced coverage areas, degradated signals, and in some cases (perhaps) stations going off the air entirely in larger metropolitan areas. I feel strongly that the NAB needs to take a more agreesive stance on this very important topic. For sure, it is not a debate that will be going away any time soon.

That Broadcasters may be a good target is just circumstance. 15 years ago when DTV was codified, it looked to be a real boost to TV broadcasters. Many viewers still watched TV with a rooftop antenna, even if cable had made solid inroads. DTV was field tested with the assumption that the outdoor antenna was going to be there. Broadcasters were going to have 3 or 4 programs going on during the day and maybe two at night. With a perfect picture and program variety, Over the Air was going to boom. In those 15 years cable and dish services all but took over. Antennas became attachments to portables in bedrooms or kitchens. The bloom went off the boom. A large percentage of the population thinks TV comes from a wall. Broadcast TV today is far better than it ever was before, but only older people have much expereince with it. Given this, it is no surprise that broadcast TV seems wasteful. I've never paid for TV service, and doubt I ever will. I don't mind commercials, but I can't see paying to see them. That makes me a real minority, maybe 5% of the population. It will be tough selling OTA TV at least as things are.

That Broadcasters may be a good target is just circumstance. 15 years ago when DTV was codified, it looked to be a real boost to TV broadcasters. Many viewers still watched TV with a rooftop antenna, even if cable had made solid inroads. DTV was field tested with the assumption that the outdoor antenna was going to be there. Broadcasters were going to have 3 or 4 programs going on during the day and maybe two at night. With a perfect picture and program variety, Over the Air was going to boom. In those 15 years cable and dish services all but took over. Antennas became attachments to portables in bedrooms or kitchens. The bloom went off the boom. A large percentage of the population thinks TV comes from a wall. Broadcast TV today is far better than it ever was before, but only older people have much expereince with it. Given this, it is no surprise that broadcast TV seems wasteful. I've never paid for TV service, and doubt I ever will. I don't mind commercials, but I can't see paying to see them. That makes me a real minority, maybe 5% of the population. It will be tough selling OTA TV at least as things are.

There's no question that OTA viewers have declined in the past 15 years. But the statistics regarding the number of people who rely on OTA (or partially on OTA), at the present time, do vary depending on what source has published those statistics. So it is difficult to know for sure. But there are other reports that have shown an increase in the number of users of OTA during the past couple of years, and during these difficult economic times.

As for younger viewers being unaware of it, I believe this is true (at least on some level). I had to explain to a young gal at Lowes Home Improvement (this past year) what OTA was when I was buying some materials from the plumbing department to make my own mast for my attic antenna.

From my own experience though, I have had a number of people at my house who have been highly impressed with OTA on my Samsung 46 inch LED. Many of them have expressed the same feedback in that they did not realize the quality of the video in HD was actually better OTA versus what they have been used to with their settop boxes on cable or satellite. So there is a lack of awareness across a wide range of ages of individuals. It's not just the age group under 30.

I believe broadcasting can continue to play an important role in technical innovation as we go forward....given its 'one to many' nature. But that may not happen unless the NAB can successfully step up its efforts and counter the offenses from the special interest groups that are working against it.

http://media.trb.com/media/alternatethumbnails/story/2011-08/58138234-26093932.jpg

To celebrate their 1 year anniversary, AntennaTV is presenting on New Year's Day 16 hours of The Three Stooges, starting at 8a ET. Here's the link to the schedule: http://antennatv.tv/antv-antenna-tv-nye-marathon-20111212,0,4539292.acrobat

I look forward to it :)

Taking advantage of a free shipping promotion last week, I bought an Antennas Direct DB4. At present, my plan is to mount it to the mast attached to the chimney (which currently holds our pre-cable, pre-'70s rotary antenna). One of the main motivations for upgrading is to remove the ancient antenna, so I thought I'd put the DB4 there wile we were at it but I'm not opposed to putting it in the rafters. We have DirecTV with a tuner attached to the DVR, so the antenna is a bad weather OTA backup as well as allowing DVR access to the subchannels.

All that to say, the purpose of my post is to ask if there's anything special I need to know before installing - tricks or tips, local uniquenesses to be aware of, etc. My (ground-level) TVFool report is here (http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3d81a31bc0ee76e2).

Thanks in advance for any help.

There's no question that OTA viewers have declined in the past 15 years. But the statistics regarding the number of people who rely on OTA (or partially on OTA), at the present time, do vary depending on what source has published those statistics. So it is difficult to know for sure. But there are other reports that have shown an increase in the number of users of OTA during the past couple of years, and during these difficult economic times.

As for younger viewers being unaware of it, I believe this is true (at least on some level). I had to explain to a young gal at Lowes Home Improvement (this past year) what OTA was when I was buying some materials from the plumbing department to make my own mast for my attic antenna.

From my own experience though, I have had a number of people at my house who have been highly impressed with OTA on my Samsung 46 inch LED. Many of them have expressed the same feedback in that they did not realize the quality of the video in HD was actually better OTA versus what they have been used to with their settop boxes on cable or satellite. So there is a lack of awareness across a wide range of ages of individuals. It's not just the age group under 30.

I believe broadcasting can continue to play an important role in technical innovation as we go forward....given its 'one to many' nature. But that may not happen unless the NAB can successfully step up its efforts and counter the offenses from the special interest groups that are working against it.

I agree with your points. Broadcast TV is the most efficient means to disseminate information we have. And, it has selling points. Especially picture quality, SD and HD. I'm not sure most broadcasters want a fight over this thing, but they should. Even if 90% of a TV station's viewers are subscribers to cable or dish, such a business will be in peril if left to middlemen. Given the current short sightedness of our political leaders, broadcast TV could go away in 15 years. 10 years from now, the error will be seen, but there will be no remedy.

Taking advantage of a free shipping promotion last week, I bought an Antennas Direct DB4. At present, my plan is to mount it to the mast attached to the chimney (which currently holds our pre-cable, pre-'70s rotary antenna). One of the main motivations for upgrading is to remove the ancient antenna, so I thought I'd put the DB4 there wile we were at it but I'm not opposed to putting it in the rafters. We have DirecTV with a tuner attached to the DVR, so the antenna is a bad weather OTA backup as well as allowing DVR access to the subchannels.

All that to say, the purpose of my post is to ask if there's anything special I need to know before installing - tricks or tips, local uniquenesses to be aware of, etc. My (ground-level) TVFool report is here (http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3d81a31bc0ee76e2).

Thanks in advance for any help.

Curiousity causes me to ask if there is someting wrong with the old antenna. I'd think it had uses. Especially for VHF. I'll risk the cards and letters by saying that antenna design really isn't better today than 40 years ago. I'd take it for a test spin. It might not be so good for UHF, but it might pull in a VHF or two. It could rank anywhere from 0 to 10.

Curiousity causes me to ask if there is someting wrong with the old antenna.

Months back, when I started thinking through my options, I posted that very question on a couple of message boards and even called a couple of local TV places. I was shocked - I got responses that varied across the entire continuum, from "it should work fine" to "it's worthless in the digital age."

Since I am totally ignorant in all things electrical - and wavelengths, spectrum, etc., are close enough so as to be the same in my book - I took the chicken way out and punted, deciding to look at a current model of antenna and go from there. I've been considering the DB2 & DB4 for a pretty good while and finally got an offer too good to refuse.

I agree with your points. Broadcast TV is the most efficient means to disseminate information we have. And, it has selling points. Especially picture quality, SD and HD. I'm not sure most broadcasters want a fight over this thing, but they should. Even if 90% of a TV station's viewers are subscribers to cable or dish, such a business will be in peril if left to middlemen. Given the current short sightedness of our political leaders, broadcast TV could go away in 15 years. 10 years from now, the error will be seen, but there will be no remedy.

If we ever had a major roll out of handheld devices that could utilize broadcast signals, I think this would be the key to ensuring the future of broadcasting. But unfortunately it seems there has not been a push on any levels to make this happen. This has been the short sightedness of our leaders. And as you say, once spectrum is taken away from broadcasters, there would be no remedy. We can only hope for change ;)

Months back, when I started thinking through my options, I posted that very question on a couple of message boards and even called a couple of local TV places. I was shocked - I got responses that varied across the entire continuum, from "it should work fine" to "it's worthless in the digital age."

Since I am totally ignorant in all things electrical - and wavelengths, spectrum, etc., are close enough so as to be the same in my book - I took the chicken way out and punted, deciding to look at a current model of antenna and go from there. I've been considering the DB2 & DB4 for a pretty good while and finally got an offer too good to refuse.

It's all marketing hype about digital/HD antennas. Your 40 plus year old antenna (assuming it has UHF capability) could work just fine in today's world since the big technology changes have been with the televisions themselves, not the antennas. But the fact that it's been exposed to the elements outside for roughly 40 years has most likely hindered the antenna's ability to function. Not only that, you've got wiring which is most likely corroded out, not to mention the fact that twin-lead ribbon wiring is no longer used (RG-6 coax is the standard now).

If you want OTA to supplement your Direct TV, I think you did the right thing by purchasing your new DB4. You could try placement of it inside your attic to see what type of results you get. Point it southeast toward the Sophia/Randleman area (where most of the towers are located) and see if it will pick up WXII on the back side. You may find that you've got enough signal in your attic. You can use the built in signal meter on your TV to see how much the TV is picking up. (Most new TVs have some version of a signal meter built in). You may be very pleasantly surprised. But if there are many obstructions, you may find that the extra effort to get the DB4 on your roof is better.

I am not a professional in this field. However, I can offer a few other suggestions. If you go outside with your DB4, you should wrap the connections well and also use good quality electrical tape (or make sure the person helping you does). This will help protect it from the weather. Also, you need to ensure you have some good caulking or other proper sealant where the wiring enters your home to ensure against water leakage. You may also want to ground your antenna if you place your DB4 on the roof.

Others can chime in here if they have additional suggestions/advice. Also, there are lots of discussions on the avsforum and elsewhere about installations. Best wishes with your new antenna :)

Catch a marathon of Christmas episodes this weekend on AntennaTV, starting at 1p ET on Sat thru 11p ET on Sun. Here's the schedule: http://antennatv.tv/antv-antenna-tv-christmas-marathon-20111212,0,3071101.acrobat

Catch a marathon of Christmas episodes this weekend on AntennaTV,

Happy Christmas and Merry Holidays to you and the folks at WGHP Chas..
Hope Santa brings you a new automation system to run all those spots in AntennaTV!

The WAXN translator in China Grove has been converted to HD, 720p for WAXN, 64.7...9.7 WSOC is 16x9, 480i

The WAXN translator in China Grove has been converted to HD, 720p for WAXN, 64.7...9.7 WSOC is 16x9, 480i

Outstanding (in regards to the conversion to HD on WAXN 64.7). Thanks for the update, Ted.

Months back, when I started thinking through my options, I posted that very question on a couple of message boards and even called a couple of local TV places. I was shocked - I got responses that varied across the entire continuum, from "it should work fine" to "it's worthless in the digital age."

Since I am totally ignorant in all things electrical - and wavelengths, spectrum, etc., are close enough so as to be the same in my book - I took the chicken way out and punted, deciding to look at a current model of antenna and go from there. I've been considering the DB2 & DB4 for a pretty good while and finally got an offer too good to refuse.

I understand. The only issue I have is the possibility of getting some VHF with the old antenna. It might not hurt to have both the old and new on the mast for a while. You could use a combiner to have both on a single down lead.

I understand. The only issue I have is the possibility of getting some VHF with the old antenna. It might not hurt to have both the old and new on the mast for a while. You could use a combiner to have both on a single down lead.

Even though TV stations use 'virtual' channel numbers (their old analog assignments on the TV tuner), there's not any Triad stations that actually broadcast on the VHF band (2-13). That could change in the future if the FCC sends any of them packing, but it is not the case at this time.

Of course, his new DB4 antenna covers the UHF band (14-51), which, again is all that is needed for the locals in this area.

Since I am totally ignorant in all things electrical - and wavelengths, spectrum, etc., are close enough so as to be the same in my book - I took the chicken way out and punted, deciding to look at a current model of antenna and go from there. I've been considering the DB2 & DB4 for a pretty good while and finally got an offer too good to refuse.

One other thought for you. Since your house already has the old twin-lead wiring, (presumably it is running down from the roof, through the attic, and down through your walls).....this could potentially be a big help for you.

You could 'thoroughly' tape (on a temporary basis) one end of your new RG-6 coax to a cut end of your old twin-lead ribbon wiring (inside your attic). You could do this before you place the ends on the new coax and have someone stay in the attic (to make sure the other end of the coax does not go through the attic). Then go down to the outlet in the room where the twin lead wiring is located and 'gently' pull the twin lead ribbon wiring out of the wall. If all goes well, you have now fed your new coax through the exact same space (in the walls) where the old twin lead ribbon wiring once resided.

I have a two story house and I did not have this benefit when I decided to get an antenna for my downstairs living room TV. Plus, I've got a load baring wall between the living room and upstairs. So (in my case) it would have been very tricky (for me) to feed coax from the downstairs living room to my attic space. (This is one reason I decided to take my living room antenna outside).

As previously mentioned, I am not a professional. I only have limited experience with my own setup at the house. I also don't pretend to know your exact circumstances with the manner in which the wiring is going through your house. But this is just a thought for you in the event you have any dilemmas about how you are going to run new wiring for your antenna.

If you are still unsure or feel uncomfortable trying to accomplish what you want, you can obviously consult with a structured wiring specialist or similar. You can purchase your coax and any other supplies from businesses, such as Norfok Wire & Electronics (if you live in Winston).

These are just some additional thoughts for you. Btw, it looks like you have good signals at your house (based on the tvfool report). So placing your DB4 in the attic (versus out on the chimney) may be all you need....especially if you are only interested in picking up the Triad locals.

it looks like you have good signals at your house (based on the tvfool report). So placing your DB4 in the attic (versus out on the chimney) may be all you need....especially if you are only interested in picking up the Triad locals.

Triad locals are indeed my only interest. My primary objective is to provide an OTA backup (in case I lose satellite signal during a storm, etc.) and to have DVR access to the subchannels (THIS-TV, AntennaTV, UNC-EX, etc.). My original thought was as suggested - since the TVFool report shows that I'm virtually dead center between Sauratown and Sophia/Randleman, point the antenna SE and see if WXII/WUNL come in through the back.

Secondly, I want the old antenna down. I figured, while we're up there, we might as well take full advantage of the DB4. A DB2 had the range, but I stole the DB4, so I opted for the 'better' one.

Regarding that installation, what exactly am I wrapping with tape for weatherproofing - the coax connections from where the antenna's wiring ends and where I add more cable to reach the house?

Even though TV stations use 'virtual' channel numbers (their old analog assignments on the TV tuner), there's not any Triad stations that actually broadcast on the VHF band (2-13). That could change in the future if the FCC sends any of them packing, but it is not the case at this time.

Of course, his new DB4 antenna covers the UHF band (14-51), which, again is all that is needed for the locals in this area.

I had in mind the Charlotte Publlic Station on Channel 11, maybe the VA PBS on Channel 3. They both have some interesting programs not seen on the UNC Network. And, on the outside the NBC affiliate in Bristol on channel 5.

[QUOTE=SVTarHeel;21390581]Triad locals are indeed my only interest. My primary objective is to provide an OTA backup (in case I lose satellite signal during a storm, etc.) and to have DVR access to the subchannels (THIS-TV, AntennaTV, UNC-EX, etc.). My original thought was as suggested - since the TVFool report shows that I'm virtually dead center between Sauratown and Sophia/Randleman, point the antenna SE and see if WXII/WUNL come in through the back.

Just providing what I can, there is a place for a second antenna. I'm somewhat south of you, and I have both the Triad and Charlotte stations. I think of that as real backup. At times a network program will not show in one market, but will in the other. WXII's THIS will sometimes have a local program, so I have WBTV's THIS. And I have WCCB's ME TV, an assortmrent of older TV shows. A weather emergency in one market won't cause me to miss anything. Not long ago I explained what happened during a live telecast that didn't make it to a friend of mine. By pointing the antennas at different markets, you might get better back up.

I had in mind the Charlotte Publlic Station on Channel 11, maybe the VA PBS on Channel 3. They both have some interesting programs not seen on the UNC Network. And, on the outside the NBC affiliate in Bristol on channel 5.

WCYB channel 5 has asked to change to channel 29. Also WJHL channel 11 in that market as also asked to be moved to channel 29. We will see who gets it.

FYI, local RF channels:

WGPX channel 14
WCWG channel 19
WXLV channel 29
WXII channel 31
WUNL channel 32
WMYV channel 33
WGHP channel 35
WLXI channel 43
WFMY channel 51

Happy Christmas and Merry Holidays to you and the folks at WGHP Chas..
Hope Santa brings you a new automation system to run all those spots in AntennaTV!

I got two automation systems now. One I wish I could keep that is on the air now and one that is slated to go on the air sometime in my lifetime.

Merry Christmas to you too!

WCYB channel 5 has asked to change to channel 29. Also WJHL channel 11 in that market as also asked to be moved to channel 29. We will see who gets it.

Yes, sir, there COULD be some chages. WCYB might get a break. Up in Virginia, WBRA has tried hard to get off Ch. 3, and the last I heard, the FCC has quietly reafirmed that there was a spot considerably below Ch.3 the the station could go to. But that might not be over.

FYI, local RF channels:

WGPX channel 14
WCWG channel 19
WXLV channel 29
WXII channel 31
WUNL channel 32
WMYV channel 33
WGHP channel 35
WLXI channel 43
WFMY channel 51

One probably should add WUNC, Ch. 25, and WGSR, Ch. 47. WUNC's signal is stronger than WUNL's in some of the triad market. For a few years I had WUNC and WSGR (when it went digital) in a low area in southwestern Guilford County. The stations I had trouble with were WGPX, difficult reception, and WLXI, reception too good.

From all of us at FOX8 WGHP, we wish nothing but health, happiness and prosperity in this holiday season and into 2012 for all of you!

We also want to thank you for watching FOX8 and TV8.2 this past year. We know you have a "500 channel" universe to choose from and you continually choose us and we thank you more than you will ever know.

Merry Christmas from your friends at WGHP! May Santa fill your stockings full of HD goodies!

Up in the mountains, watching the Yule Log on WMYT.

Fess up, who's doing the same?

Up in the mountains, watching the Yule Log on WMYT.

Fess up, who's doing the same?

I saw it, but thought it was a training video on unattended fires. Thanks for the clarification. Capitol Broadcasting has something different in mind for that station, but I don't know what it is. Since the HD signal was downsized a few weeks ago, there has been some room to let.

I wont lie. I watched some Yule Log on Antenna TV.

I saw it, but thought it was a training video on unattended fires. Thanks for the clarification. Capitol Broadcasting has something different in mind for that station, but I don't know what it is. Since the HD signal was downsized a few weeks ago, there has been some room to let.Watched in HD on Netflix...

Up in the mountains, watching the Yule Log on WMYT. Fess up, who's doing the same?

We've never watched it before. I couldn't find it listed anywhere but GMC (DirecTV) so we watched their version and dozed off 'in front of the fire' before lunch.

I saw it, but thought it was a training video on unattended fires. Thanks for the clarification. Capitol Broadcasting has something different in mind for that station, but I don't know what it is. Since the HD signal was downsized a few weeks ago, there has been some room to let.

Haven't noticed any changes with WMYT HD signal, not exactly sure what you mean. Only upcoming change should be new programming on 55.2.

Haven't noticed any changes with WMYT HD signal, not exactly sure what you mean. Only upcoming change should be new programming on 55.2.

WMYT was up to full HD but, the explanation is, MyTV settled on 750p, so WMYT went down, also. They have their .3 rented, but still haven't anything on .2. They have space for an SD service. For a good while when it had a nominal 1180i on .1 it had a minimal .2 telling viewers to rescan for it and WJZL. Capitol Broadcasting took a while, understandably, verifying Antenna TV going on WJZL. I can't guess what 's in store for WMYT. But it ain't normal to have .3 programming without .2.

I wont lie. I watched some Yule Log on Antenna TV.

How did it look? We were out of town and AntennaTV is not in that market, even though just about all the Luken networks seemed to be.

It looked/sounded good on 17-2. I never got around to switching it over to OTA to see how it looked on 8-2 since the AM21 stopped pulling it in awhile back, as was discussed earlier in this thread.

I might be the only one who cares about this, but just in case there's someone else out there who hasn't discovered this...

If you have Directv AND use Time Warner QAM to watch UNC-MX AND have an AM21 tuner, you can get guide data for UNC-MX by adding 26-5 WUNLDT5 to your guide. Obviously you can't watch UNC MX (QAM ch 4-4) via the AM21, but you can at least see the guide information...

For you New Years night owl's, The Burns and Allen/Jack Benny New Year's Eve Marathon on TV8.2!

https://www.facebook.com/AntennaTV/posts/314026165295676

For anyone that is interested, I thought I'd share a pic of my Winegard 9095P with a HDP-269 preamp. I took this shot earlier this evening with my new digital camera. The antenna sits on a mast 30 feet off the ground with an eve mount on the side of my house.

Happy New Year everyone.

For anyone that is interested, I thought I'd share a pic of my Winegard 9095P with a HDP-269 preamp. I took this shot earlier this evening with my new digital camera.

It sure is a whole lot lighter at your house at 9:43pm than it is at mine. :D You must be in extreme western W-S!

Thanks for the pic. That has me wondering whether or not I might prefer a lower mounting for my new antenna in case I ever need easier access to it.

It sure is a whole lot lighter at your house at 9:43pm than it is at mine. :D You must be in extreme western W-S!

Thanks for the pic. That has me wondering whether or not I might prefer a lower mounting for my new antenna in case I ever need easier access to it.

Yea, this extreme western side is in it's own time zone :D

As for you considering a lower mount, I can understand that. I am 47 years old and don't climb on ladders as easy as I used to! I had some help getting that antenna up there a year ago.

I sure hope it doesn't require any maintenance for a long time. Otherwise, I might be in trouble :eek:

As for you considering a lower mount, I can understand that. I am 47 years old and don't climb on ladders as easy as I used to! I had some help getting that antenna up there a year ago.

I'm also 47, but since I was born in February of '64, I'm likely senior to you. Of all the irrational fears, the only one I have is heights. I'm good to about the 4th step on a ladder - then self-preservation kicks in and I stay put. If I decide to use the chimney mast, I'm hoping to draft a buddy into helping me get the old antenna down and put this new one up at the same time.

I'm also 47, but since I was born in February of '64, I'm likely senior to you. Of all the irrational fears, the only one I have is heights. I'm good to about the 4th step on a ladder - then self-preservation kicks in and I stay put. If I decide to use the chimney mast, I'm hoping to draft a buddy into helping me get the old antenna down and put this new one up at the same time.

A buddy is a good idea in a way you might not have studied. For every station with a given antenna, there are points in elevation that are better than others. The highest possible mounting might not be the best for UHF stations. If there is some option as to height in your configuration, it would be well to examine reception at different heights before fixing to one point. That might save wanting to redo later.

Just remember the FCC considers OTA reception with an antenna that is 15 feet above ground. They don't look at rabbit ears for reception.

Happy New Year to everyone from all of us at WGHP! May 2012 be the best so far!

http://www.w4cl.net/fox/3D8.jpg http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/4/44/WGHP-TV_8-2.jpeg

I'm also 47, but since I was born in February of '64, I'm likely senior to you. Of all the irrational fears, the only one I have is heights. I'm good to about the 4th step on a ladder - then self-preservation kicks in and I stay put. If I decide to use the chimney mast, I'm hoping to draft a buddy into helping me get the old antenna down and put this new one up at the same time.

Yep, you've got 7 months on me. I was born in September of '64. As for your concerns about going up the ladder, I am with you on that! I look younger than my years. But I know I'd probably fall a lot harder versus someone in their 20's or 30's.

From what I know about reception, higher in elevation is 'generally' better. But, there may be times when other points in elevation might work better, as difuse said. You could run your tvfool report with various heights to try to get a guess on that.

If you have a buddy that is comfortable going on your roof, I'd probably be inclined to stick with that plan and use the existing location (on your chimney).....unless you determine that some other location is a measurable improvement. At least with a chimney mount, you don't have to run a mast 30 feet off the ground like I did with an eve mount on the side of the house.

On Thursday night (12/29) while spending the night in my truck in Walkertown, I was able to pick up WSOC in Charlotte. Interestingly, I saw no other Charlotte stations. WSOC blacked out ( can't use "fadeout" any more :) ) shortly before sunrise Friday morning. To me, it was odd that there was only one station from that market to reach the triad, causing me to think briefly that Walkertown may be a nighttime hot spot for that station. Quickly disregarded that thought.

Anyone else in the area catch this?

On Thursday night (12/29) while spending the night in my truck in Walkertown, I was able to pick up WSOC in Charlotte. Interestingly, I saw no other Charlotte stations. WSOC blacked out ( can't use "fadeout" any more :) ) shortly before sunrise Friday morning. To me, it was odd that there was only one station from that market to reach the triad, causing me to think briefly that Walkertown may be a nighttime hot spot for that station. Quickly disregarded that thought.

Anyone else in the area catch this?

I once tried to figure spots where both Charlotte and Roanoke signals might be recieved, and, the general area you were in was close to a possible point. Recieving Charlotte stations in the Triad is not remarkable except for the northern and eastern parts of the market. There is quite a bit of overlap in the Charlotte-Triad -Triangle markets. What you got was an odd overnight bounce probably; there was solar activity then. But, there might be a steady signal there.

Reportedly Charlotte signals can be received in parts of Winston-Salem, Lexington, and Thomasville, but normally not quite Greensboro. And the WSOC tower is closer to the Triad than the Dallas towers, although the Dallas towers are taller.

Reportedly Charlotte signals can be received in parts of Winston-Salem, Lexington, and Thomasville, but normally not quite Greensboro. And the WSOC tower is closer to the Triad than the Dallas towers, although the Dallas towers are taller.

I'm west of Lexington. I have the Charlotte and Triad stations with a rather simple homemade folded dipole pointed at WTVI, as it is a VHF, and the most difficult. The dipole is a little asymmetric, which allows reception from other than just front and back. I've seen worse reception points, but also better. There is ground on two sides of me higher, and the other two sides are old growth forest. I also have the Linville UNC transmitter, but that station has a BIG footprint.

I have decided to go to over the air TV and cancel DirecTV but need help. Is there anyone on this forum or could anyone direct me to someone who could help me install a roof-mounted antenna that needs to feed into multiple rooms? There is already coax fed from outside to the rooms. I believe I could use this forum and various how to videos on YouTube to do this on my own but not without a lot of trial and error that could be avoided by having an experienced person or pro help. I will pay what one would expect to pay a professional installer. THANKS!!

I have decided to go to over the air TV and cancel DirecTV but need help. Is there anyone on this forum or could anyone direct me to someone who could help me install a roof-mounted antenna that needs to feed into multiple rooms? There is already coax fed from outside to the rooms. I believe I could use this forum and various how to videos on YouTube to do this on my own but not without a lot of trial and error that could be avoided by having an experienced person or pro help. I will pay what one would expect to pay a professional installer. THANKS!!

In what part of High Point are you ?

If you are only interested in local channels, a two antenna non rotatable system may be the way to go.

In what part of High Point are you ?
North High point near Oak Hollow Lake / Skeet Club Rd

North High point near Oak Hollow Lake / Skeet Club Rd

Unless you're in a hole, the locals can probably be had with a multidirectional antenna, that may not have to go on the roof. An attic mount might do it.
TVFOOL is good for figuring your reception possibilities, but Antennaweb will allow you to figure from the exact spot. Use the map to figure from your exact point :



http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/Address.aspx


I know a business not far from you using OTA, signals are alright, but the building is in such a place trucks can block reception. What you do next will depend on what Antennaweb and TVFOOL tell you. The general area you're in is good, reception will depend on exact topography. I think some research before trying anything is best, and, I think you might also.

Any advice on what antenna might allow me to get WDBJ from Roanoke? I am in Whitsett. I'm willing to buy a preamp if necessary. I know its a stretch but I'm willing to try any suggestions. I'd post a link to what I get from tvfool but I don't have enough posts to add a link.

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Any advice on what antenna might allow me to get WDBJ from Roanoke? I am in Whitsett. I'm willing to buy a preamp if necessary. I know its a stretch but I'm willing to try any suggestions. I'd post a link to what I get from tvfool but I don't have enough posts to add a link.

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Could you put in words what TVFOOL indicated? Whitsett is not absolutely a stretch. I recieved WDBJ DT in Greensboro a few years back, but the signal was on a very narrow path. I had to have the antenna precisely directed, AND, at exactly the correct height, which, bellieve it or not, was about a meter above ground level. Before doing anything else, I'd look for a path.
Anywhere is where it might be. If you can devise a bowtie with a reflector behind it, and a way to raise and lower it. Enter 18.1 (WDBJ's transmitting channel) on your TV and look in what you think is the right direction.

Not really picking up anything with my existing bowtie, but now I can post the link to my tvfool results.

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3d7fb989d3d56e7c

Thanks again!

Not really picking up anything with my existing bowtie, but now I can post the link to my tvfool results.

http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=29&q=id%3d7fb989d3d56e7c

Thanks again!

It seems a four bay bowtie UHF on the 25 foot mast will do the trick nicely. The transmitter should be just west of magnetic north. The pre-amp is probably not a good idea because you have some strong signals there. If that doesn't work, there may be a real problem. UHF signals, over distance, tend to layer; one might be at 10 feet, but not at 12. If you are serious about getting WDBJ, I think you can. If you can use a wall mounted mast that sits on the ground, with the antenna just above the roof, you got a shot at it. It will require patience. Aim the antenna at the WDBJ transmitter using a compass. Have yout TV on channel 18. You'll have a better chance with a 4 bay, but a single bowtie might work. In small gradations, raise the mast with blocks or bricks under it. It will take your tuner several seconds to recognize a signal, so you just have to chill. You will want to turn the antenna slightly one way, and wait, then the other , and wait, at each gradation. Hopefully, you will find the signal, and once that is done, you can try to optimise it with some small tweeking. If as I hope, you get it, you can then secure the mast. You will probably need to turn your TV on and off a few times. Most tuners will default, go to blue screen, or cut off after not finding a signal for a while. If any of this causes questions, I'll try to answer.

Thanks! I'll give it a try sometime next week. I have company coming tomorrow or else I'd be trying right now.

I have decided to go to over the air TV and cancel DirecTV but need help. Is there anyone on this forum or could anyone direct me to someone who could help me install a roof-mounted antenna that needs to feed into multiple rooms? There is already coax fed from outside to the rooms. I believe I could use this forum and various how to videos on YouTube to do this on my own but not without a lot of trial and error that could be avoided by having an experienced person or pro help. I will pay what one would expect to pay a professional installer. THANKS!!

There's not 'officially' a lot of so called antenna installers out there, as there were in the good old days. Many people who use OTA now days keep it simple with an indoor antenna. Otherwise, when they go outdoors with an antenna, it appears most people tend to do the work themselves or get family members or buddies to help.

But you may find professionals listed in the phone book under services such as home security installations, or a satellite TV franchise that may be willing to do antenna work for you. You may want to start with a home security installer because those guys 'may' tend to have more professional knowledge about wiring in general.

I cannot endorse any specific business in the Triad. However, you may want to contact Progressive Security, located in Lewisville. I am familiar with them, only because they are near me....just outside of Winston. If they cannot do an installation for you (outside or attic), perhaps the owner 'might' be able to give you a referral. I am not sure....but it's something you could check out. If you do hire someone to do antenna work for you, just be sure you get a written estimate of the cost. I hope this helps you in some way.

I have decided to go to over the air TV and cancel DirecTV but need help. Is there anyone on this forum or could anyone direct me to someone who could help me install a roof-mounted antenna that needs to feed into multiple rooms? There is already coax fed from outside to the rooms. I believe I could use this forum and various how to videos on YouTube to do this on my own but not without a lot of trial and error that could be avoided by having an experienced person or pro help. I will pay what one would expect to pay a professional installer. THANKS!!

I'm planning to have a friend help me. He used to do telecom installs professionally and helped me add two coax outlets for cable (now used for DirecTV) a couple of years back. If you'd like, I'll be happy to ask him if he'd be up for a side project.

Alternately, you could contact the local folks who did my satellite install. As evan said, if he couldn't do it, he may have a recommendation.

Regardless of who you find, please ask them if they'd be up to have you pass their info along here as needed - I can't believe you're the only person who's looking for a paid installer.

North High point near Oak Hollow Lake / Skeet Club Rd

Btw, you indicated you wanted a single antenna to feed multiple TVs that are fed by coax that is already in existing rooms. Have you ran a tvfool report? I assume you've got plenty of signal at your location to easily pick up the Triad locals; but I am not sure if you can get any out of market stations at your location in north High Point. Of course, that may not make any difference to you.

But another issue to consider is the placement of your antenna. If you only want (or only have access to the Triad stations), you may consider the placement of your antenna in your attic space versus the roof, to service the multiple rooms in your house.

I am not suggesting you go into the attic (versus outside) in your particular case. I am just pointing out that this is a decision that you would need to make.......especially since you are interested in hiring someone and the costs may be different based on the time involved.

Note: as far as someone for hire, see my post above, as well as the post from SVTarheel

I'm planning to have a friend help me. He used to do telecom installs professionally and helped me add two coax outlets for cable (now used for DirecTV) a couple of years back.

Good to hear your friend is going to help you replace that old antenna on your chimney. I know (in your particular case) you only want a new antenna as a backup for your Direct TV. But I also know you will appreciate having it during bad weather :)