Yeah, Cox is a little behind right now. I expect that they will catch up soon, but I have no inside info.

Ralph Carson
A.C.E.
WGXA TV24/DT 16

Current HD Channels. Don't look to bad. SD though looks as bad as old VHS tapes in your Sears brand (circa 1987) player. Their On-Demand falls way short of Comcast. As far as content, speed and the software driving it.
702 Fox HD
704 CBS HD
705 NBC HD
706 ABC HD
708 GPB HD
710 TBS HD
711 ESPN HD
712 ESPN-2 HD
713 MOJO HD
714 A&E HD
715 UNIVSL HD
716 TNT HD
717 MHD HD
718 CNN HD
719 NGEO HD
720 HDTHEATER
721 DISC HD
722 FOOD HD
723 HGTV HD
724 TLC
730 HBO HD
731 LIFE HD
735 MAX HD
740 SHO HD
750 STARZ HD
790 BRAVES HD

Looks like DirecTV will be adding HD-LIL for Macon this year...

DIRECTV to Offer HD Local Channels in 121 Markets by Year-End (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=134307)

~Alan

Ralph, could you give us a hint about what it could be? Lincoln Financial games in HD this year?

Don't leave us hanging!!!

No, I have to make sure it's all going to work before I announce it. But we ordered the gear, and I'm currently pulling the cables. But I'm pretty sure it's going to work. I haven't messed up yet.

Ralph Carson
A.C.E.
WGXA TV24/DT16

Just wondering if anyone is getting the CW on an OTA antenna. I have direct TV and get my locals in analog except for CW. I get my locals in HD through my antenna. I can get CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, but no CW. Thanks for the help.I can watch channel 69.1 (DT 43) from Atlanta OTA... Also, in snowy unwatchable analog on 69 or a better somewhat snowy Channel 66 analog from Columbus. I can also get the C-Band CW HD feed from T5/IA5/G25 satellite @ 97.0w.
But, like Trip said, the "CW is not available over the air in Macon".

Edit: also when I had Directv about 3 years back, they had a WB (which later became CW when it merged with UPN) channel out of Miami as part of the Macon locals.... maybe they don't do that any more..??

Is anyone else having problems receiving Fox 24 OTA? I have not had off air reception for about a week now. I can get the Dish SD local channel 24 just fine. I have a Dish HD DVR and WGXA 24-1 will not come in when I scan for locals. If I add locals manually and go to transmit number 16 the corresponding channel shows 0 instead of 24. (CBS shows channel 13 once the transmit number is on 4) I am getting a locked signal strength of 94.

Ralph, is this problem a result of your upgrades at Fox 24 or is this a Dish Network issue. They were no help when I called their tech assist dept.

RWayne:

I dont think its a dish network issue. We watch OTA. We lost 24 at least a couple of days ago. I rescanned today and it picks it up on 16 and is not identified as 24. Also the audio level is down and may be distorted. No guide data.

Whats up Ralph? More storm damage?

Hey Y'all:
We had a problem with our PSIP system. There were actually several problems. While our signal was being transmitted, there was no identifying data with it. Some sets don't care, and some do. Unfortunately our monitor receivers are ones that don't. We have the problem corrected now, so if you still can't get us, do a rescan, and that should take care of it.

Since our special project has not been implemented in any way, it was not the cause. Speaking of our special project, we hit a kink in the plan but we are trying to get that ironed out. Anything can be fixed if you throw enough money at it. It seems that one of the manufacturers over stated what their equipment was capable of doing, so we're having to buy another piece of equipment to bridge the gap. Just a nasty surprise.

Ralph Carson
A.C.E. WGXA TV24/DT16

Ralph, you fixed my problem. Fox 24-1 showed up when I did another scan. Now, I can watch Fox in HD once again. Thank you for your help and all the useful info provided to this great forum.

Hey RwayneS:
I assure you that it was more of a problem to me. We were alerted by a viewer that called us by telephone. As time goes on, we will be looking into better monitoring.

We have dealt with our snafu with the special project, so it's back on, not that it was ever off. Now to get in the gear and test it. We have done all of the cabling and it's ready to connect up, when we get the gear. Y'all have a nice weekend.

Ralph Carson
A.C.E.
WGXA TV24/DT16

about 3 or 4 days ago where i was complaining about commercial loudness during the olympics?

about 3 or 4 days ago where i was complaining about commercial loudness during the olympics?This is found on the Home Page:

Aug 11, 2008 - 10:47 AM - by David Bott
On the morning of August 11, AVS Forum suffered a major failure in the database and backup storage. As such, we have no choice but to recover from August 2nd.

This represents tens of thousands of lost posts and new threads for the last week. There is nothing we can do about it at this time but move forward. We are sorry about the loss and will work to be sure this does not happen again. We are as upset about this as you may be, more than likely even more.

Regretfully,

AVS Forum

Any updates, Ralph?

Ok, am I the only one that thinks 41's HD feed looks like utter crap?

Ok, am I the only one that thinks 41's HD feed looks like utter crap?

Same here. Real bad blocking and occasional blurriness.

Same here. Real bad blocking and occasional blurriness.

Do me a favor and e-mail their engineer at bstubbs@wmgt.com and let him know. I think the more of us complain the more likely he'll look into it.

Hey Y'all:
We had the whole system together and tried to run some preliminary tests. It didn't go well. A switcher malfunctioned and would not pass audio and it scrambled the video. We also had problems with the receiver, but we got that part straightened out. If anyone was watching Rachael Ray today, they got a hint as to what we are up to. A call to the manufacturer and they will send a new replacement switcher. Later, sometime next week, another test.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Anybody have issues with color tonight on 41. I was trying to watch the olympics and the colors were really messed up, and it was almost like I had two images overlaying each other with the second having messed up colors and offset one way by several inches. I looked at the non HD feed and it seemed ok. Anybody else seeing this??

Anybody have issues with color tonight on 41. I was trying to watch the olympics and the colors were really messed up, and it was almost like I had two images overlaying each other with the second having messed up colors and offset one way by several inches. I looked at the non HD feed and it seemed ok. Anybody else seeing this??

Same here. 41 has been terrible lately.

It hasn't looked all that bad here until tonight...tonight is just horrible. I was really worried that maybe it was my antenna or something, so although I am not glad that this is happening, I am glad to see I am not the only one and it is an issue at the station.

I can't believe WMGT hasn't filed to maximize their DTV coverage post-transition like other stations. WPGA has filed for 1,000 kW and WMAZ has requested 52.6 kW. WFXG, in Augusta, has gone so far as to request a lower UHF channel with increased ERP & a non-directional pattern. So, what's up with WMGT? 110 kW just isn't going to get a usable signal to all of their DMA. I admit, their analog signal is poor, too. But you'd think with DTV, they would get it right. Budget must be tight. I guess I will have to use WSAV from Savannah or WAGT from Augusta for NBC, which means having to swing the antenna around! An additional problem with the Macon stations is their antenna height... much lower when compared to the Augusta & Savannah stations.

Well this is really frustrating, I checked the TV again this morning, and the color issue and ghosting are still there. Very upsetting.

I can't believe WMGT hasn't filed to maximize their DTV coverage post-transition like other stations. WPGA has filed for 1,000 kW and WMAZ has requested around 50 or 52 kW. WFXG, in Augusta, has gone so far as to request a lower UHF channel with increased ERP & a non-directional pattern. So, what's up with WMGT? 110 kW just isn't going to get a usable signal to all of their DMA. I admit, their analog signal is poor, too. But you'd think with DTV, they would get it right. Budget must be tight. I guess I will have to use WSAV from Savannah or WAGT from Augusta for NBC, which means having to swing the antenna around!

I agree. 41 is the only station that I occasionally lose signal with here in Eastman. Between their terrible picture and lack of signal strength, I'm wondering if I might just put up another antenna and point it towards another NBC station. I wonder if I could pick up WALB in Albany?

I wonder if I could pick up WALB in Albany?

Using the lon/lat coordinates for downtown Eastman, TVFool showed WALB's current directional ERP (Eastman's side) as 31.90 kW on channel 17 with a signal strength of -128.8 dBm. Post-transition non-directional ERP is 22 kW on channel 10 with a signal strength of -115.1. I used an antenna height of 30 feet for the calculation. That doesn't look too promising for a reliable lock.

I haven't checked for any updated applications to the FCC from WALB. Plus, depending on where you are located from downtown Eastman, you may get different results.

I am new to the forum, do any of you know when the HD locals channels will be added to Dish? I just added HD to my package but locals are still standard. I am
considering purchasing an OTA antenna but will wait on Dish if it is in the works.

I am new to the forum, do any of you know when the HD locals channels will be added to Dish? I just added HD to my package but locals are still standard. I am
considering purchasing an OTA antenna but will wait on Dish if it is in the works.
I would bet it won't be before February 17, 2009. On that day, they will no longer be able to uplink the Analog locals. But, that doesn't mean they will uplink the Digital locals in HD, and I would like to think it might be more costly to buy equipment to down-convert HD to SD, just so they have the space on their Satellites for all the HD locals in the country. They have a New Satellite in orbit, but I here it will be the middle of September before it gets turned over to Dish Network for their operations, it's currently in test phase. And it is replacing an old Satellite, so it might not be any help to get the Macon HD locals on satellite. Only time will tell...???
On another note, Directv has already placed Macon HD locals on their list to be uplinked before the end of the year. That's good for Dircetv people, but it won't help you, or me, very much......

And oh yeah.... I think you should get an OTA antenna anyway.

I am new to the forum, do any of you know when the HD locals channels will be added to Dish? I just added HD to my package but locals are still standard. I am
considering purchasing an OTA antenna but will wait on Dish if it is in the works.

I also have Dish HD Service, and have had it for almost two years now. The first thing I did when I got my Dish HD Service was to hook up an outdoor antenna, and I must say it works great. As for when Dish is going to get the HD Locals. I have not heard anything about it....they just put a new satellite up a month or so ago, and have another one going up in November. So, hopefully sometime soon...but I fear that they may end up just getting the local HD feed for macon, and chopping off the sides and sending that out to customers. I feel we are on the low end of the totem pole. So, I would say if you can, get an Over the Air antenna for your setup.

Talked with DirectTV and the lady stated that Macon locals will be in HD by the end of November. Oh I can't wait.

Hey Y'all:
Y'all ready for some football? In High Def? SEC football will be in high definition on WGXA DT16. I just put the finishing touches on the system today. Y'all enjoy!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV 24/DT 16

Hey Y'all:
Y'all ready for some football? In High Def? SEC football will be in high definition on WGXA DT16. I just put the finishing touches on the system today. Y'all enjoy!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV 24/DT 16

UGA in HD? That will be sweet!

Hey Y'all:
Y'all ready for some football? In High Def? SEC football will be in high definition on WGXA DT16. I just put the finishing touches on the system today. Y'all enjoy!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV 24/DT 16

That's big time, Ralph. Thanks so much for setting this up!!

Do you know what the first game will be?

UGA in HD? That will be sweet!

Go Dawgs!

Raycom feed looks GOOD in HD!! Thanks Ralph!

Thanks Ralph, for all you do to help make tv viewing more pleasing for the rest of us. I took a look a few times and the picture was perfect, some of the best I've seen. Of course today's game wasn't one I cared much for. It would have been nice if Hawaii had beat the Gators, and I would have hung around to see that. If nothing else was on, I would have watched the whole game. As is, I watched mainly ESPN HD with some ESPN2 HD and little on Fox 24, I loved seeing East Carolina beat Virginia Tech. I'm sure Raycom will have more than a few games that will keep me hooked, between now and the end of November....
Thanks Ralph and Thanks Fox 16/24
May all programming be in HD, in the near Future

Al

Has PBS been having problems lately? Everything that should be in HD is being broadcast in SD. I've started to watch a few shows and they never did switch over to HD.

I read this in the Atlanta HDTV thread:


Quote:
Thu Aug 28, 2008 1:41 pm (PDT)

Hi all - Officially, my last day at GPB was yesterday... I am moving to Michigan. Here's the scoop on all your GPB wonderings...

1) GPB is still in the process of their digital build-out. Concentrated efforts are in the works this week to install new equipment in master control... Testing and commissioning will commence soon after and then there is training...

2) There have been some serious audio issues with the HD pass through, because the installation is happening this week, there hasn't been time or resources to troubleshoot, so we are in upconverted SD for the moment. Bad timing with the conventions happening this week.

3) GPB will soft launch their first new multicast channel next week. So, the duplication on SD will be minimized.

4) HD will increase in October when the station will be able to time shift and automate HD programming.

5) As mentioned before, after February next year, the power of WGTV will increase and coverage should increase.

6) I will no longer be monitoring this group, please call Jack Watts at GPB 404-685-2400 with any questions or concerns...

Happy viewing!

Gillian Gonda
formerly of GPB

It was in post #1996 by Tybee, and he got it from the ATLDTV Group

Apparently the football game in HD went off without a hitch. At least that's the way it looked to the average viewer. I was there in the control room and we lost audio thirty minutes before air time, We were scrambling to get it back on, and after changing a setting on our cross converter, it reappeared. It should have worked in either setting. But the automatic switching logic worked like a charm, and should in the future assure that the HD switch is on the proper input position at all times. My goal is to insure that the operator doesn't have to even think about high def. He just does his job and it gets on. We believe this project will be useful for other syndicated games that we air in real time (not recorded). We will certainly utilize it when it can be of value. Happy Viewing!

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT 16

Talked with DirectTV and the lady stated that Macon locals will be in HD by the end of November. Oh I can't wait.
Last week, through my HR-21 Directv DVR, I received Channel 29 in standard def. I just punched in 29 on the remote, and GPTV appeared on the screen. The HR-21 does not have any off-air tuners, only Directv tuners, so I wasn't getting it off-air. I read on Wikipedia that Directv's Macon market has been getting Channel 29 from the same satellite that sends channels 13, 24, 41, and 58. That satellite requires, in Macon, a second dish, which I don't have. Does this mean that Directv was/is sending Channel 29 via MPEG-4 from one of its high-def satellites?

Ralph, a big thank you for getting Fox up for the SEC football HD broadcast. I thought the video quality looked pretty good. Also thanks for keeping us up to date on the engineering works at Fox. It would be nice if the other local broadcasters would get on here as well. ABC and NBC are TERRIBLE with broadcasting shows in HD. Watching World News currently in SD, supposed to be HD.

I just wish ESPN had not bought out the SEC from Raycom. Would be nice to keep watching the SEC games on Fox on saturday mornings past this year. Have a fear ESPN will bury the SEC games on channels most people don't have.

Last week, through my HR-21 Directv DVR, I received Channel 29 in standard def. I just punched in 29 on the remote, and GPTV appeared on the screen. The HR-21 does not have any off-air tuners, only Directv tuners, so I wasn't getting it off-air. I read on Wikipedia that Directv's Macon market has been getting Channel 29 from the same satellite that sends channels 13, 24, 41, and 58. That satellite requires, in Macon, a second dish, which I don't have. Does this mean that Directv was/is sending Channel 29 via MPEG-4 from one of its high-def satellites?

The satellite that DirecTV uses for the Macon SD-LIL (as well as multiple other DMAs) is LEASED. That lease will be ending very soon, so DirecTV is in the process of transferring those SD-LILs over to their new KA satellites (where the HD channels are coming from)... which means that in markets where DirecTV offers SD-LIL on a second dish, you will no longer need a second dish, but you will need a SlimLine (HD dish) to receive them.

It has been said that as of July 31st, DirecTV was requiring new installs in 72.5 markets to have the SlimLine (HD dish) installed (regardless of whether or not the customer was having HD installed)... so it appears that either DirecTV has the Macon SD-LIL simulcasted on the KA satellites or they are currently testing them as such.

~Alan

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Just got back in the USA after 8 yrs and bought a SOny HDtv. I am in Georgia and have Cox cable. I ordered the HDMI cable with the TV and I am now wondering if I will be able to use it when I get the TV. Do the converters Cox leases have HDMI connections now?

If they don't is it better to just purchase a converter from another source?
If I do would it work with Cox?

New to HD so feel free to talk to me like a 1st grader......

3) GPB will soft launch their first new multicast channel next week. So, the duplication on SD will be minimized.I noticed tonight that they have launched this channel, it's on 29.3 from Cochran, 28.3 from Warm Springs, 25.3 from Dawson, and 8.3 from Athens/Atlanta. These are the channels I can get, I suppose the whole state GPB Network is working...

...Do the converters Cox leases have HDMI connections now?...

Jr, the current Cox cable boxes that we have in our home all have HDMI and component so either way you should be fine using the Cox box.

However, your TV may also have one or more built in digital tuners. There are two types of tuners. Some tuners decode digital cable, known as QAM tuners (In Macon, the local channels are not encrypted and can be seen with a Cox cable connection).

Still other tuners decode "over the air digital TV" which you can get even with a set of old-school rabbit-ears antennas in some places.

Welcome back and good luck.

I read this in the Atlanta HDTV thread:


Quote:
Thu Aug 28, 2008 1:41 pm (PDT)

Hi all - Officially, my last day at GPB was yesterday... I am moving to Michigan. Here's the scoop on all your GPB wonderings...

1) GPB is still in the process of their digital build-out. Concentrated efforts are in the works this week to install new equipment in master control... Testing and commissioning will commence soon after and then there is training...

2) There have been some serious audio issues with the HD pass through, because the installation is happening this week, there hasn't been time or resources to troubleshoot, so we are in upconverted SD for the moment. Bad timing with the conventions happening this week.

3) GPB will soft launch their first new multicast channel next week. So, the duplication on SD will be minimized.

4) HD will increase in October when the station will be able to time shift and automate HD programming.

5) As mentioned before, after February next year, the power of WGTV will increase and coverage should increase.

6) I will no longer be monitoring this group, please call Jack Watts at GPB 404-685-2400 with any questions or concerns...

Happy viewing!

Gillian Gonda
formerly of GPB

It was in post #1996 by Tybee, and he got it from the ATLDTV Group

Thanks for the update. I was wondering what went wrong.

Hey WPGA, is anyone from WPGA on this forum? I want to know why you didn't have the Georgia Tech @ Boston College game by Raycom Sports HD on channel 32/58.1 in High Definition on Saturday? I was very disappointed, but you lost this viewer, as I'm able to get WUPA 43/69.1 out of Atlanta, and they had it in HD. Too bad you can't get your Act together, you might keep more viewers around for your Advertisers? I hope you do better this coming weekend, as I would prefer to watch WPGA, But I'll take Raycom Sports HD on WUPA before I watch your Upconverted SD on WPGA. Have a nice day......

Al

WGXA and Ralph, thanks again for getting the Raycom Sports HD working on 16/24.1. I was flip/flopping between you and the Georgia Tech game, but got to see most of the end, some of the 3rd quarter and all of the 4th. College Football in HD is Awesome.
Thanks Again...!!

I just wish ESPN had not bought out the SEC from Raycom. Would be nice to keep watching the SEC games on Fox on saturday mornings past this year. Have a fear ESPN will bury the SEC games on channels most people don't have.

Yeah, we found out about the ESPN deal not too long after ordering the equipment. We may be able to use it on other arrangements as they come up. So it's good to have it. At least this year, SEC football will be in high def on WGXA DT16. Next year, maybe something else. I do know the receiver will be used on several syndicated shows, but the signal will be downconverted to NTSC. We have no way to record in HD at this time. But as always, we will keep pushing for improvements.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

just bought a new HD. Also, I have an amplified Phillips antenna. I live in NW Bibb Co, but cannot get any HD over the air. pic is SD, as my Samsung TV says, Air 13, or Air 24, etc. Nothing like 13-1 or anything comes in. TV is on second floor, some trees around, but not enough to keep my DirecTV from working. Do I need a better/stronger antenna, or am I just stupid? (a distinct possibility)

Thanks in advance!

Do you have a digital tuner in your HDTV, or does your Directv Receiver have a digital tuner in it, or both? Seems all tuners, regardless of what they are in, are different? Could be you're not doing the right set-up for the tuner? I believe the Philips Amplified Antenna should do the job?

My second post

My third post

just bought a new HD. Also, I have an amplified Phillips antenna. I live in NW Bibb Co, but cannot get any HD over the air. pic is SD, as my Samsung TV says, Air 13, or Air 24, etc. Nothing like 13-1 or anything comes in. TV is on second floor, some trees around, but not enough to keep my DirecTV from working. Do I need a better/stronger antenna, or am I just stupid? (a distinct possibility)

Thanks in advance!


If you can wait a little longer, DirecTV is supposed to have HD locals in Macon by the end of the year.

http://dtv.client.shareholder.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=324647

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=1789494&highlight=macon#post1789494

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/moreInfoText.jsp?assetId=1620002

Has anyone else had breakup or artifacts in their WMAZ-DT broadcasts lately? I have Cox. It's doing it on all three of my tvs so either the wiring in my house has gone south or there is a problem somewhere on their end. Hoping someone else can confirm the issue.

I'm sure the TV has a digital tuner in it, as I'm able to pick op the religious channel up in the 50's and it says something like "DTV 56-1" whereas the others say "Air 13." I took the Phillips back and got a cool looking one at Radio Shack. The air channels come in a little better, but still no HD. I don't yet have the DirecTV HD box, so I'm stuck with the SD until next Sunday. The menu is pretty easy to understand on the TV, so I don't think I'm making the mistake there. It's just a little frustrating, that's all! :-)

Oh yea, my TV is a 40 in Samsung LNT4069F, FYI...

flashram, yea been having the same problem also. only really noticed it this weekend watching the games in HD. never showed up this week during the local news.

Hey WPGA, is anyone from WPGA on this forum? I want to know why you didn't have the Georgia Tech @ Boston College game by Raycom Sports HD on channel 32/58.1 in High Definition on Saturday?

Ralph, maybe you can comment on this but, this is confusing to me too. How can the USC vs OSU game be in HD but not the Raycom game? Is it different for regional games than it is for national ones? The Clemson vs NC State game looked terrible!

Anyone @ WMAZ keeping up with this forum? I don't watch Oprah, but I'm curious why you're not showing her in HD? I noticed WSB in Atlanta has her in HD, I bet as many viewers as you have, some must surely have HDTV's and I'm sure they want be to happy when they figure out Oprah is now available in HD.... and you're not providing it for them?

Ralph, maybe you can comment on this but, this is confusing to me too. How can the USC vs OSU game be in HD but not the Raycom game? Is it different for regional games than it is for national ones? The Clemson vs NC State game looked terrible!

Two things...

One, the game may not be available in HD... HD production is still very, very expensive.

Two, the station may not have HD satellite receivers for all networks.

Either would mean that ABC programming shows up in HD, but regional sports programming doesn't.

Give things time, gang... everything won't be in HD for a long time yet.

When you're looking for free, over the air TV, it's probably best to just accept what's offered.

Some of you folks act like you pay for over the air HD television. If you want HD on ALL programming, send some $$ to the local stations so they can buy the equipment to receive it. Or send it to the regional networks so they can buy HD cameras and switching gear.

Patience. And realize that there will always be programming that isn't in HD.

Anyone @ WMAZ keeping up with this forum? I don't watch Oprah, but I'm curious why you're not showing her in HD? I noticed WSB in Atlanta has her in HD, I bet as many viewers as you have, some must surely have HDTV's and I'm sure they want be to happy when they figure out Oprah is now available in HD.... and you're not providing it for them?

I'm not familiar with the particular satellite and channel that Oprah's distributed on... but as I pointed out above, it may be that WMAZ does not currently have an HD receiver for that particular program.

Again, patience. It will take time for everybody to get up to speed, and some stations may never feel the need to invest in gear. It's a business decision, not an emotional one.

Sure, we'd all like to have all programming in HD. The chances of that happening are pretty small.

Ralph, maybe you can comment on this but, this is confusing to me too. How can the USC vs OSU game be in HD but not the Raycom game? Is it different for regional games than it is for national ones? The Clemson vs NC State game looked terrible!
WPGA may not have the capability to broadcast syndicated programming in HD. Apparently from reading AVS Forum topics that capability is not cheap and many stations in larger markets aren't plunging into non-network HD broadcasts. Probably a cost issue IMO.

Anyone @ WMAZ keeping up with this forum? I don't watch Oprah, but I'm curious why you're not showing her in HD? I noticed WSB in Atlanta has her in HD, I bet as many viewers as you have, some must surely have HDTV's and I'm sure they want be to happy when they figure out Oprah is now available in HD.... and you're not providing it for them?
Again IMO, like WPGA, there could be a cost issue. You may have to contact the station's program manager and ask for a surer answer.

First let me say to "oldave", that I'm not known for my patience. It's been my experience that failure to reply is taken as admission of guilt. I don't want anyone @ WPGA or WMAZ or the other stations to think I'm guilty of wanting Status-Quo. In other words I'm ready for change and if nobody says anything, they may think it's OK to stay as they are, which is something I hope doesn't happen?WPGA may not have the capability to broadcast syndicated programming in HD. Apparently from reading AVS Forum topics that capability is not cheap and many stations in larger markets aren't plunging into non-network HD broadcasts. Probably a cost issue IMO.


Again IMO, like WPGA, there could be a cost issue. You may have to contact the station's program manager and ask for a surer answer.As far as WPGA goes, I'm sure you're correct and they don't have the equipment to do the HD for the Raycom HD games? But, I'm hoping my complaining will help to push them in the right direction? I'm just as sure that no complaining will make it happen later than sooner? Also, I realize that WPGA doesn't have the resources that WMAZ has and this could be a long wait to get things up to full potential. But, WGXA found the resources to get the SEC Raycom HD going, so I figure WPGA should be able to do it as well?
On the other hand, I see no reason for WMAZ to not have any Syndicated Programming available in HD, to be shown in HD, unless they haven't signed the contracts for said programming? If they can show Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy in HD, I see no reason to not show other syndicated programming in HD? They must have the equipment to Record programs in HD from a Satellite feed and show them at there desired time slot? If so, they have the satellite dish and receiver to move the dish to the desired satellite and they can change the transponder frequencies on the receiver to record other syndicated programs? Of course I realize that there are many types of schemes or methods used to get different modes of HD and WMAZ may not have the right equipment to receive Oprah in HD as of yet? It could be they just don't want to reprogram the receiver every day (and possibly several times every day?) and are waiting for a separate receiver for the Oprah in HD or other possible HD shows? It could be they eventually wind up with several different HD receivers to get all the different syndicated HD shows that will be available in the future? But, whatever happens, I just don't want them to think I'm happy with them leaving things as is? And hopefully my griping will give them a push in the right direction? Besides, they have to beg "Gannet" for whatever they get, and if we don't let them know, or give them something they can show Gannet, then Gannet may think the people around here are either to unknowledgeble about things, or just don't care? I don't want Gannet or WMAZ to think that we don't care if things stay like they are..! And that goes for all the local stations..!!!!

Two things...

One, the game may not be available in HD... HD production is still very, very expensive.

Two, the station may not have HD satellite receivers for all networks.

Either would mean that ABC programming shows up in HD, but regional sports programming doesn't.

Give things time, gang... everything won't be in HD for a long time yet.

When you're looking for free, over the air TV, it's probably best to just accept what's offered.

Some of you folks act like you pay for over the air HD television. If you want HD on ALL programming, send some $$ to the local stations so they can buy the equipment to receive it. Or send it to the regional networks so they can buy HD cameras and switching gear.

Patience. And realize that there will always be programming that isn't in HD.oldave, you have some valid points, but really, don't you think that everytime I buy something from one of there sponsers, that I'm contributing to there broadcast?
I also realize that there will always be programming that isn't in HD, but when the programming is in HD, I expect to see it in HD...!!!!

Dean Tanton is WMAZ's chief engineer. On the few occasions I've had to complain to him, personally, about WMAZ's HD problems, I've gotten the impression he believes the problems are viewers', not WMAZ's. He has informed me that he lives north of Forsyth, receives over-the-air signals via antenna, and has minimal sound and video dropouts when he watches WMAZ at home. I believe, however, that he was raised in or near Atlanta, currently resides in a small community between Barnesville and Griffin, is a Directv customer in the Atlanta market (which has received local Atlanta stations in HD for about a year), has a Directv high def receiver, and, therefore, watches very little local, Macon broadcasts when he is at home. I agree with voomvoom that, after reasonalbe troubleshooting to make sure the problem is not in our personal systems, we should complain when there are obvious problems under the control of the local broadcaster. Many times, the problem is due to sheer neglect on the part of an employee of the broadcaster. For example, during the Olympics, one Saturday, WMGT was doing a horrible job of monitoring its programming to insure that the signal was being broadcast in HD. I called and complained several times. Each time, the problem was fixed within minutes of my getting through and actually talking to someone (which is a huge probem in and of itself). That same day, even Dean Tanton called WMGT (he told me this) to tell whoever was in the control room to flick the HD switch so that he could watch the Olympics in HD while at work at WMAZ. In short, if we don't complain, we won't see HD content in HD, and our expensive, high def televisions are wasted.

i think Ralph at Fox is the only one who has everything straight with regards to HD. ABC never seems to flip the HD switch. They have the capability to broadcast in non syndicated shows, as shown by the nightly shows and football saturday night. However, they seem to forget to flip the switch for GMA on the weekends and World News was in HD on sunday but hasn't seen. NBC lately has been better, but if I remember they forgot this past hockey season to flip the switch for the games. CBS usually does a decent job. They just need to flip the switch for Oprah. I don't watch Oprah, but still looks bad that they don't show one of the biggest shows on their station in HD.
I emailed the head engineer at ABC last week about World News. I never heard anything back. Would be nice to at least get a response saying they heard my complaint.

I think Ralph Carson does a great job, too. One of his greatest attributes is that he listens, really listens, when I call, and does not immediately take the position that there is not a problem, or that the problem is mine, unlike most other engineers in the Macon market. Also, if the problem is "his," he, quite honorably, admits it and corrects it quickly. I think Ralph Carson deserves a round of applause (although he would probably rather have a raise)!

Ahhhh!!! Georgia-Arizona State game in SD right now on WPGA! Can't these guys get their act together?

Ahhhh!!! Georgia-Arizona State game in SD right now on WPGA! Can't these guys get their act together?Ain't that the truth... I'm glad I'm able to watch WSB HD, it's good to have a back-up. Even WSB had it in SD when I first turned to it, but it changed to HD almost as soon as I got there. I didn't check WTVM to see if they had there HD running.....

any news on when and if the locals will be on DISH Network?

Hey Y'all:
I have been asked to comment on an issue with another station's Raycom game. Of course, I cannot accurately do so with the information I have, and because I don't know much about their plant, but I can say this: It is true that HD broadcasting gear is very expensive. We were able to broadcast in surround sound before anyone else primarily because of the Fox splicer system which switches in their receiver's feed with it already encoded. And we are always looking for an opportunity to increase our HD programming. We found a way to broadcast the Raycom games in HD relatively cheaply, with the purchase of only a few more pieces of gear, and we decided to go for it. But what really makes it work well, is that I have constructed interface logic boxes to make the switching system automatically follow what the master control operator was doing on the analog switcher, and therefore the operator does not have to remember to throw the "HD switch". While there is such a button in our plant, it switches automatically. We will continue to do what we can to further the cause of HDTV.

I also understand that we can have a problem with our systems that can render our signal unviewable on just some sets. It is possible to have two different brands of HD sets sitting side by side and only one can get the signal. This is usually an encoding problem or a PSIP problem, and if we have the problem and we don't correct it, we lose viewers. That's a high price to pay for inattention. Since our monitor receivers are not finicky at all, it behooves us to listen to viewers and their experiences. We're all learning how HDTV works together.

I personally would like to thank those of you who have written kind words on my behalf in these pages, and I would like to thank all of y'all who have put up with all the kinks that have shown up during this transition. Happy Viewing!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24

P.S. I may have forgotten to answer the original question tha prompted this response. It is quite possible for a TV station to be able to broadcast the network in HD, but not a syndicated show, such as a football game. Often networks provide the receiving equipment and it is off limits for syndication. We have no control over our network receivers. Fixed dishes, fixed frequencies, fixed everything. Only Fox can change any of it. Years ago, when we were an ABC affiliate, they allowed us to use their gear for syndicated shows, but that may have changed. Our Raycom receiver had to be purchased separately, and it had to be an HD receiver. Also, the switcher had to be purchased. We have no HD master control switcher. Another station might have other obstacles depending on their system layout.

With regards to WPGA and WMAZ and their "resources."

Remember, neither is operating at full power, and I know that WPGA in particular has had some rather hefty expenses for continuing upgrades (their digital signal has to protect analog WNEG/Toccoa until the transition... then their power will pop up to a nice level). WMAZ will move their digital signal to RF channel 13, with a higher power, too, at transition. More $$ to spend.

Sure, WMAZ is a Gannett station, and we all think they have deep pockets - and they do. Their switching is very good, following the analog switcher all the time, as Ralph's does over at WGXA.

WPGA had a problem, and I'm not sure if it has been resolved yet, where the serial outputs could only be sent one at a time... one to the analog gear, one to the digital gear... which resulted in seeing the switch be "late" on the digital (don't watch anything on ABC unless the Sooners are on, which is fairly rare out here, so no clue if that's all been resolved).

WMGT still stands for "We Might Get That" in HD for you... but only if our master control operator isn't on his/her cell phone chatting away. I can't count the number of times I've seen the animated peacock... but Morris ain't gonna spend any money, you can bet on that.

WGXA seems to have the greater commitment to HD programming, doing what they can on their own limited budget, and Ralph is obviously great at engineering pieces to get the job done, resulting in a better on-the-air experience for all of us.

Complaining here doesn't really do much. I believe Ralph's the only local engineer who reads here, and we all know he does a great job of both getting the job done and answering questions here.

What *can* work is talking to the General Manager at each station. Let them know how you feel. Those are the ones that can make the receiver purchases happen, and make that new digital switcher come in a little sooner, rather than later.

It all takes money. Lots of it. And that money has to come from advertising revenue. Sure, patronizing the sponsors you see advertising on local television helps, but the advertiser doesn't know that you want more HD programming. They just know their sales are up, which says to them their TV advertising is working. Do they care if it's in HD or not? Not so much. Buying from local advertisers helps make sure they continue to advertise locally... and we should all do it whenever we can. But it's really not going to pump big bucks into the station bank accounts to make those HD upgrades happen overnight.

All the stations know that there's a large audience out there that wants *everything* to be in HD. The harsh reality is that they've had to buy new transmitters, transmission lines, antennas, STLs (with their attendant antennas and transmission lines... you priced copper lately? Sheesh, and you thought gas had gone up!), digital video gear, etc, etc. And they've had to buy all this when there was nothing wrong with the analog gear. So basically, these smaller market stations have had to pony up and build brand new television stations (and there is no market for used digital transmitters - nobody's had digital transmitters long enough to need to replace them!) with all brand new equipment.

Now you want them to pony up and spend hundreds of thousands more so you can see the pore in Oprah's face? What's that get the TV station in return? Certainly not more advertising revenue... they can't very well go to the advertisers and say "we had to spend $50,000 to upgrade for one TV show, so we'll have to raise your rates $1000/month for a while to pay for it." Mr. Advertiser is going to tell the sales rep what they can do with their new rate card.

Television is a business. There are budgets and those budgets do include money for upgrades. Sometimes there's wiggle room in a budget, and if you let the General Managers know what you want, they're the ones that can move a few dollars from one department to another (sometimes... in these corporate environments, that's not always the case.).

Just because some people post messages on a message board doesn't mean it's worthwhile to a station to do the whole upgrade at one time.

Hey Y'all:
Oldave has done well with his defense of the slow transition, but do not dispair. Equipment occasionally needs replacement in TV stations anyway, and anything we replace gets looked at with the future in mind. Even if we can't air it in HD immediately, we look for convertable gear, and that's how all the new gear is being made anyway. Analog gear is getting harder to find, so if you're stilltrying to stay analog (to save expense) you have to buy digital and buy converters (no small expense). We recently had to buy a censor delay for our Fox Files program, It's HD compatible, but we're doing A to D before it and D to A after it because in that part of the signal path, everything is still analog. If we get a new master switcher, the D to A converter will be used somewhere else, and an upconverter placed between the A to D converter and the delay. You will see no difference at home, but we will be one step closer. So, things are changing, even if you don't always see it. We have a new commercial server. It's not HD, but it's easily upgradable. At some point it will be upgraded. It will all move along faster after the transition. But don't turn your nose up at standard def, what will probably happen is that analog gear will be used for secondary channels. There is a lot of NTSC footage in the world, and it will need an outlet. This is an additional revenue stream for broadcasters, which has been needed, since the proliferation of cable and sat channels has diluted viewer numbers for the traditional networks. This also helps the over the air viewer who is limited to broadcast TV by making more choices availlable. However, we don't know if cable will carry these extra channels.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

The other thing to note (before folks start complaining about subchannels) is that Fox pre-encodes its HD feed out at the headquarters, and then feeds it out to the stations all ready to go--the station doesn't touch the feed and change the quality. When Fox does this encoding, it does so with space reserved for a subchannel, so for WGXA to add a subchannel wouldn't hurt the picture quality on Fox-HD one bit.

- Trip

All of us understand the cost behind the equipment, and would understand if that was the problem. What bothers us is the fact that these station are broadcasting their digital signals and show HD programs, and yet when shows are broadcast in HD by the parent station they do not pass it along in HD. For example, the last 2 weeks WPGA has shown World News in HD on Sunday, however during the week it's SD. Now I could understand the other way around, since it's the weekend and that's how they used to show GMA. How can you not have the show on in HD during the week. The show is NOT syndicated, it's broadcasted live. Shows broadcasted from the parent have no reason to not be shown in HD if that's how they are broadcasted.

I would be interested to know what the deal is with that also.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

Ralph, this is what I got from the production manager.
"Technology is changing very quickly in the production and transmission of
digital t-v. ABC and all the other networks, as well as all the local
stations, are still in a pretty steep learning curve. As it applies to ABC
programming, about two years ago they rolled out their "final version" of
the equipment and method of sending their hd programming to their
affiliates. That involved a rather complete rebuild of their New York
infrastructure. Well, they're doing it again. The latest word is that
they'll have their new-new version in place by the end of this year.
They're still hedging a bit, but their hope is to have all programming
available in hd by the February 17th analog cutoff. There are still a few
bugs to work out with the whole idea of producing and sending hd, so you can
expect a few glitches in the coming months.
Hal Sutton, WPGA-TV"

seems like a cop out. i know ABC in NY recently upgraded their production studios and moving them to a newer area in the building. however, sounds like he's not taking responsibility for WPGA's issues.

I reckon that would depend on whether they (ABC) are sending the feed in HD or not. If not, there is nothing the local affiliate can do.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

well, according to the topic in the HD Programming forum. ABC has been broadcasting it in HD since the Democratic Convention.

Well, if it's coming into the studio in HD, then the fault for not getting it on the air in HD would be the TV station's. If they are taping it, that would explain it for they may be like us and have no way to record in HD, but if they are airing it "live", then you got me.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

Hey Ralph.

Just noticed that the Ole Miss/Fla game isn't in HD. Is there a problem with the feed? Thanks

Hey Y'all:
Yeah, our HD receiver did not lock onto the audio stream, and because there was no audio, the operator switched to the analog feed. It's a cantankerous beast, and I had to make a trip to the studio to straighten it out. Rebooted the receiver and made the switch. I didn't get the word on it because the operator didn't have my cell number. This will be corrected, my fault. We thought we would be able to let it go on it's own, but apparently, that won't work just yet.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Why is Falcons game not in HD? I am tired of programming that is available in HD not being aired in HD. This is insulting to the viewers. This is at least the second football game this year that has aired in HD in Atlanta, but been SD in Macon.

I have investigated the matter briefly, and I believe that the reason the Falcons game was not in HD is because the operator went to an alternative switcher to access the separate Fox A and Fox B receivers. The alternate switch does not have the tally circuits that cause the Fox Splicer switcher to automatically switch. The reason the operator did this was because he was following instructions from Fox in order to avoid the fade from the fall equinox when the sun lines up behind the satellite. He did his job correctly in the absence of instructions from me. Whatever the case, I will look into it and take corrective action if necessary. During a solar fade, it is not possible to keep the game in HD at our plant while it is going on, but the outage only lasts a few minutes. At that time, we have to switch to a backup sattellite with a standard def feed.

Ralph Carson
A.C.E.
WGXA TV24/DT16

Trying to watch the Falcons and Bears on 24, and again is in 4:3 SD up-converted. Do the MCO's not monitor air from the Digital transmitter? Please flip the correct feed into the evil Fox Splicer!!!!

Yep, the Falcons game is not being broadcast in HD again. Very annoying.

The 4 pm game is in HD, so it's just another case of 24 not routing correctly from Net to program out....The Falcons are 4-2 this year, but 24 is 2-3 in Falcons HD broadcast, WMAZ had one game.

The 4 pm game is in HD, so it's just another case of 24 not routing correctly from Net to program out....The Falcons are 4-2 this year, but 24 is 2-3 in Falcons HD broadcast, WMAZ had one game.

The 4 p.m. game did not switch to HD until about halfway through the first quarter.

Hey Y'all:
I left specific instructions this time. Yet the operator still botched it. He just didn't read the notice. At the time we wired up the Fox splicer, the alternate (backup) paths had no tally circuits. But we cannot connect all paths to the splicer, we need a backup path in case the high def feed fails. The solar transitions are over now, so there shouldn't be any more problems.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Last night (and this morning), my Directv DVR would not lock on to WMAZ's digital signal, at all, even after a re-scan. My Sony had trouble with drop outs, but was watchable after a re-scan. For about the last four weeks, the signal has been acceptable, but not great. I haven't made any changes to my system. Is there anyone else who is having problems with channel 13's off-air digital signal? If so, please call and complain. I've called, but, as usual, they "aren't having any problems at the station." The person I spoke to in Engineering wouldn't even agree to re-initiate the PSIP. He would only say that he would refer my complaint to Dean Tanton, chief engineer.

P.S. Saturday morning, my Sony showed a signal strength of 45 and an error rate of over 200 for 13.1. My Dtv DVR still wouldn't acquire the signal. I called WMAZ and got a sympathetic ear in the news department. Within 15 minutes of that call, everything cleared up. Did anyone else have problems Thursday, Friday, and early Saturday morning, before 9:00 a.m.?

I haven't had any trouble with WMAZ. Of course, I really only watch it on the weekends when college football is on. This weekend, I watched it some Saturday and my signal stayed consistent the whole time.

On the subject of WMAZ, anybody else notice that their picture quality has improved? In the past, WMAZ has a tendency to get blurry for a brief instance every now and then. It was especially noticeable during football games. The ticker at the bottom would blur for a brief instant and then become sharp. The blurring is now gone. Also, there seems to be less macroblocking (although it still shows up every now and then). Glad to see they are making improvements still.

On the subject of WMAZ, anybody else notice that their picture quality has improved? In the past, WMAZ has a tendency to get blurry for a brief instance every now and then. It was especially noticeable during football games. The ticker at the bottom would blur for a brief instant and then become sharp. The blurring is now gone.

I'm glad somebody else noticed this!! It would irritate me to no end. I've even turned to other games because of it. But, like you said, this weekend it was gone. I was sitting there waiting for it to kick in, but it never did. Congratulations WMAZ, you really stepped up to the plate.

Since I called Saturday morning, the signal strength has been consistent (so far) at about 75 on my Sony, whereas before last Thursday, it was consistently about 65. I, too, think that the picture quality has improved, although I'm still getting some sporadic dropouts that last a split second. ToddUGA, what do you mean by "macroblocking?"

macroblocking is basiclly the "snow" of a digital image. it's when watching a digital image you get blocks of pixels that don't update or show incorrect information from what they are supposed to show. it usually shows up on overcompressed signals or weak signals.

have a question for the OTA guys. i just bought an antenna (winegard pr-70103 from SummitSource). i have it installed in my attic pointed at 30degrees. I live near russell and 41. i can catch the 4 major networks. however, NBC only comes in in analog. does anyone know, if i'd have to raise my antenna outside (rather not, i just have it hanging by twine in the attic) or is nbc's digital signal that weak? TVFOOL has it listed at more power the WMAZ but that comes in at 70%. Antenna web says i need a stronger antenna, and the FCC's website doesn't even have NBC's digital signal listed in their station pdf released back in March.

have a question for the OTA guys. i just bought an antenna (winegard pr-70103 from SummitSource). i have it installed in my attic pointed at 30degrees. I live near russell and 41. i can catch the 4 major networks. however, NBC only comes in in analog. does anyone know, if i'd have to raise my antenna outside (rather not, i just have it hanging by twine in the attic) or is nbc's digital signal that weak? TVFOOL has it listed at more power the WMAZ but that comes in at 70%. Antenna web says i need a stronger antenna, and the FCC's website doesn't even have NBC's digital signal listed in their station pdf released back in March.

How high off the ground is your antenna? I live off of 41 almost to 96 and I pick up everything just fine. Maybe you need to fine tune the position of the antenna.

Does anyone know if any of the Macon stations are going to going to hook up a subcarrier channel and broadcast RTN, like Channel 2 in Atlanta does?

mchias1, I live in Macon in the Ingleside area. My antenna is mounted in my attic, but on a pole for stability. About six months ago, I started having some problems with channel 41. Signal strength is now between 85 and 95, down from consistently around 100. The engineer says he is at full power, but I have my doubts. My directv dvr is having problem maintaining 41's signal (sporadic but consistent macroblocks, dropouts, etc.), whereas it had none before. Try a rescan. If that doesn't work, call 41 and ask someone in the control room/engineering to reinitialize their PSIP (I plan on doing that myself, too). If that doesn't work, you might have a situation like I had once with FOX. A piece of their equipment did not have proper encoding for my Panasonic tuner, and Ralph Carson (great guy!) added the code which solved the problem.

i hooked my antenna up to my dish network receiver. it receives 41-1 like my tv. is this WMGT's HD signal also or just the SD feed? if it's the HD feed then i get all the channels and subs (WMAZ-3 and WMUM-2,-3).

my antenna is about 15-20 ft.

i hooked my antenna up to my dish network receiver. it receives 41-1 like my tv. is this WMGT's HD signal also or just the SD feed? if it's the HD feed then i get all the channels and subs (WMAZ-3 and WMUM-2,-3).

my antenna is about 15-20 ft.

41-1 is the digital, high-def channel, 41 is analog. Looks like your setup is working properly. Enjoy.

yea, i just found out once the Nat News came on. thanx for the info.

with the Direct locals (allegedly) imminent, I"m guessing it's not worth the effort to install an antenna at this late date? Or do you really fell the signal may be better ( less compressed) than the Direct signal. I've spent 5 figures on my new audio/video room, and want the very best signal at all times! BTW, I live very near the Riverside /Pierc area, high on a hill. Sure would like to get the ATL news and programming....Thanks for any insight.

I get the Savannah HD locals via DirecTV now, and the satellite signal is just as good as the OTA signal. I'm viewing both on a 58-inch plasma, and that's big enough to show any compression issues and other problems. The Savannah HD locals look great.

From what I can tell, the one item that makes the difference quality wise is how DirecTV gets the OTA signal for uplink into their system. In some cities DirecTV puts up OTA antennas and takes the signal off the air just like you and I would, but then they decode it from MPEG2 to baseband and then re-encode it MPEG4 for uplink to their system and eventually back down to viewers. There is quality loss in that process with the decode and re-encode since MPEG compression is lossy. In other cities, DirecTV installs direct fiber optic baseband video feeds of some kind from the local affiliates' studios to the DirecTV uplink local receive facility (LRF). There the video is encoded to MPEG4 directly as opposed to being dropped down from MPEG2 to baseband and converted back to MPEG4. At least this is what I understand from reading a number of posts on different forums. Perhaps Ralph Carson here will know how it's going to be done in Macon.

I was apprehensive about the HD quality of the Savannah locals on satellite, but I am not anymore. It is very good! I still have my OTA setup to compare against, and I cannot tell a difference between satellite and OTA. Now if they would just add the PBS, Fox and CW stations. Right now they only have ABC, CBS and NBC.

Allenman, you'll probably appreciate an antenna when you're watching or recording an important broadcast show during a rain storm!

bmeeks8, when directv launched hd locals in Savannah, did the channels magically appear in the Dtv guide, or were they already in the guide before the launch?

Will Central GA be getting all of the locals? I am considering switching from Cox but if I can't get Fox or one of the other locals I will forget it.

Will Central GA be getting all of the locals? I am considering switching from Cox but if I can't get Fox or one of the other locals I will forget it.

It's my understanding that Directv will have in HD the following Macon locals: NBC, CBS, FOX, GPB, and ABC. I'm reasonably certain that agreements have been reached with NBC, CBS, FOX, and GPB. I'm not certain about ABC. Directv is supposed to launch Macon's HD locals in November, but hasn't specified a date certain of which I am aware. Dtv usually launches HD locals on Wednesdays. Hopefully, it will be this Wednesday. I'm anxious to see the results.

I was told by someone in a DirecTV booth while at the fair (yeah I know, an air-tight source) that they would be available on Nov 3rd (TOMORROW). I'm not holding my breath...:)

It's my understanding that Directv will have in HD the following Macon locals: NBC, CBS, FOX, GPB, and ABC. I'm reasonably certain that agreements have been reached with NBC, CBS, FOX, and GPB. I'm not certain about ABC. Directv is supposed to launch Macon's HD locals in November, but hasn't specified a date certain of which I am aware. Dtv usually launches HD locals on Wednesdays. Hopefully, it will be this Wednesday. I'm anxious to see the results.

Good enough for me. If I can get a signal through all my pine trees will be another story...

Hey Y'all:
From what i've heard, Direct Dish is picking up their signals off the air, and sends it to their headend by fiber optic cable. I don't know if they re-encode or not. That's all I know.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

bmeeks8, when directv launched hd locals in Savannah, did the channels magically appear in the Dtv guide, or were they already in the guide before the launch?

I did not see them in the Guide ahead of time.

Sort of weird the way they appeared. From posts of others, I think it depends on whether you have Custom Lists set or not. Here's what I mean.

I had the OTA versions set already and I was using a Favorites List (Custom List) to de-select some channels. I had the OTA versions and the SD satellite versions of the Savannah channels in my list. So I had 3 and 3-1 and 3.2, for example. Same for 11, 11-1 and 11-2.

On the day the HD locals went live, my "old" SD channels (that now had HD Locals on them) were automatically de-selected from my Favorites List. In other words, they were unchecked and you could not surf to them unless you directly keyed the number. I went in and edited my Custom List (Favorites) and put them back, then all was fine. I also had the Fox affiliate (28 and 28-1) programmed. The Fox affiliate is not yet in HD on satellite, and that channel (28) did not get unchecked in my Favorites List.

The HD versions are now on 3, 11 and 22. I still can get the OTA signals on 3-1, 11-1 and 22-1 although I have removed them from my Custom List since the satellite signal is more reliable.

Also, if it matters, I had "Hide SD Duplicates" turned on in both of my receivers. I have an HR20-100 and HR20-700.

I was told by someone in a DirecTV booth while at the fair (yeah I know, an air-tight source) that they would be available on Nov 3rd (TOMORROW). I'm not holding my breath...:)

A recent post by a poster on DBSTalk assumed to be a DirecTV insider implied that a large number of HD Locals launch this week. Macon is on the list for November. Savannah was on the list for October, and they launched the very first Wednesday morning in October. Perhaps you guys will be lucky and get Macon launched the very first Wednesday in November.

Thanks, bmeeks8. I look forward to those channels popping into the guide, hopefully Wednesday, the 5th. Maybe the dropouts and macroblocking on Channel 13 that I have been plagued with for a couple of years now will be eliminated. If so, I'm sure that channel 13's staff will breathe a big sigh of relief since I'll no longer have a reason to call and complain.

A Directv insider that I have dealt with on a one to one basis and that posts info quite often over on DBSTalk posted today that Macon locals in HD tentativly will be lit up on Directv on thursday morning at 6:00am.

He is very trustworthy and as always been spot on it the past.

Here is the list of tentative locals to be turned on this thursday morning:

Boise, ID
Fort Smith, AR
Macon, GA
Sioux Falls, SD
Traverse City, MI
Harlingen-Brownsville, TX

6:00am EST on November 6th

Thread discussing this at DBSTalk: http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=144418

MACON GA- LIT UP ON DIRECTV!! Long time coming!!! BUT HERE --

Have DirectTV and locals are working in HD, but what about the CW?


Thanks, Sean

Have DirectTV and locals are working in HD, but what about the CW?


Thanks, Sean

I have the CW not in HD but I do at least have it. Had to get a waiver approved for the Distant feed out of Washington I think it is now.

The macon market has no local CW station only local one available is delivered by COX cable and not available anyway else outside of having COX.

Looks like the blurring is back on WMAZ. The Alabama/LSU game was terrible yesterday. It was unwatchable for me. It's currently doing it during the Bills/Patriots as well. :(

Looks like the blurring is back on WMAZ. The Alabama/LSU game was terrible yesterday. It was unwatchable for me. It's currently doing it during the Bills/Patriots as well. :(

Yep, noticed that as well. I guess I praised them too soon.

Im getting the new HD locals here in Harlingen-Brownsville, TX. But the FOX programming is not airing in HD... anyone else notice this?

Im getting the new HD locals here in Harlingen-Brownsville, TX. But the FOX programming is not airing in HD... anyone else notice this?

FOX in Macon is in HD, but last night, during Prison Break, the audio dropped out completely and hasn't returned as of this morning. This is only through Directv. Off the air is okay. No other local HD channels affected through Directv, only FOX.

I just reported the Direct TV audio problem to my Chief Engineer. There is audio as I am writing this. Of course we can't do anything about it, except complain to them.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT 16

Ralph, I tuned in to channel 24 for "House" tonight. Still no change through either of my Directv HD receivers on the audio issue. Does the chief engineer have HD Directv receivers? If so, then this issue is getting interesting. I have sent Directv an e-mail to report the problem. In the meantime, I'll just watch via antenna!

I checked FOX this morning and there was audio, but the show that was on was standard definition content. Could the problem be limited to shows with Dolby Digital 3.2?

What time and date was that? I will look into it. Was that WGXA or Fox News? We have no control over Fox cable programs. WGXA DT shows up as channel 80 on Cox cable when viewed without a cable box. I don't know how it appears with a box. Since we never de-embed the audio from Fox, you get it the same way we get it from Fox. When we are sending standard def, we transmit in Dolby (2.0). There is no attempt at transmitting surround, as we don't have a surround infrastructure.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT 16

Ralph, as of Wednesday, Directv has restored audio on WGXA HD, but it is still problematic. Audio will periodically disintegrate. When that happens, voices have a "metallic" quality. Video will stutter, as if attempting to sync' with the audio. I haven't had time to sit down and thouroughly study it, but it appears to happen only on HD programming, with the 5.1 digital track. I have notified Directv of the problem, and the customer service representative to whom I spoke did not attempt to place blame on WGXA or FOX. She said she would relay the details to Directv's engineers. I believe that they are aware of the problem because sound has been restored. On other forums (dbstalk and directv), I have seen posts detailing similar problems in other markets. A TechKnow Guide at Directv's forum agrees that the problem appears to be Directv's, not yours. Eventually, they'll straighten it out. It could be a software issue. In the past three weeks, Directv has had two software "upgrades" for high def receivers. It would be interesting to know if your chief engineer, who I think you said has Directv HD, has had similar problems, starting Monday night, prime time, via Directv HD on your channel only.

Ralph, as of Wednesday, Directv has restored audio on WGXA HD, but it is still problematic. Audio will periodically disintegrate. When that happens, voices have a "metallic" quality. Video will stutter, as if attempting to sync' with the audio. I haven't had time to sit down and thouroughly study it, but it appears to happen only on HD programming, with the 5.1 digital track.

I would recommend posting the issue here: HD Locals: Macon, GA (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=144543)

It is a thread set up specifically for reporting issues with the Macon, GA HD-LIL channels. People at DirecTV read those threads, and you'll probably get the issues straightened out faster than the other way you contacted them about the issues. Read the instructions linked to on the first post as it will tell you the best way to "format" your post for the best results.

~Alan

No, my Chief Engineer doesn't have Direct TV, but I thought he needed to be aware of the problem, since he will probably get complaints on it. It sounds like Direct TV may be having encoding problems probably not their fault. Make sure they are aware, and then give them a little time to work it out.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

My DirecTV install is scheduled for Saturday. I will probably go ahead and cancel if this isn't resolved by then. Keep us posted.

My DirecTV install is scheduled for Saturday. I will probably go ahead and cancel if this isn't resolved by then. Keep us posted.

Out of curiosity, why would you cancel?

It appears to be an issue with only one channel? Ralph Carson is correct in that it's most likely an encoder issue (it's not unusual for there to be some encoder issues upon start-up of new HD-LIL), and while it can sometimes take a month or two, I've seen some issues get corrected in days, or a week or two, and cbhpi has made DirecTV aware of the issue.

If you currently have cable, and are getting FOX that way, or a Dish subscriber getting FOX via OTA, I can understand why you might want to cancel, but otherwise, this should only be a temporary issue.

~Alan

Out of curiosity, why would you cancel?

It appears to be an issue with only one channel? Ralph Carson is correct in that it's most likely an encoder issue (it's not unusual for there to be some encoder issues upon start-up of new HD-LIL), and while it can sometimes take a month or two, I've seen some issues get corrected in days, or a week or two, and cbhpi has made DirecTV aware of the issue.

If you currently have cable, and are getting FOX that way, or a Dish subscriber getting FOX via OTA, I can understand why you might want to cancel, but otherwise, this should only be a temporary issue.

~Alan

I guess I should have said "reschedule" instead of "cancel". I have cable right now that works fine for the HD locals. I am in no hurry to switch during football season to something that isn't working properly. I'm curious if anyone else is having the same issue?

2 weeks and DirecTv still has done nothing about their shoddy transmission of FoxHD. This is unwatchable and absurd! Now the sound is going in and out. Ridiculous!

I just got mine installed Friday and noticed the audio/video problems during football on fox on Sunday. Luckilly I somehow ended up with a hr20 so i was able to switch to ota. Regardless, this needs to be addressed asap.

2 weeks and DirecTv still has done nothing about their shoddy transmission of FoxHD. This is unwatchable and absurd! Now the sound is going in and out. Ridiculous!

I just got mine installed Friday and noticed the audio/video problems during football on fox on Sunday. Luckilly I somehow ended up with a hr20 so i was able to switch to ota. Regardless, this needs to be addressed asap.

I recommend that EVERYBODY having this problem post a message on the link I provided above. cbhpi did, and DirecTV may be working on it now, but the more people complaining about it, the better. I know for a FACT that DirecTV reads those threads, and I've SEEN people get results from posting there. The link again is: HD Locals: Macon, GA (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=144543)

Read the instructions linked to on the first post as it will tell you the best way to "format" your post for the best results.

~Alan

I've posted at the other forum and reported the problem to DIRECTV. He told me to call back if it isnt fixed in a few days. Today I turned on Fringe and there was no audio at all.

Hey Y'all:
I just had a conversation with someone at Direct TV about this audio problem. Though I didn't get the man's name, he said he would open a ticket on it and monitor the feed. I was able to show him that it was their problem, and that they would look into it. This is the day before Thanksgiving as I write this, so if any of y'all have any more problems, please report them here and on the Direct TV's website. Please report every incident, even if others have already done so. We think the problem traces back to their pickup receiver, which is the same type that we have had problems of a similar nature with the SEC football feeds. This type receiver can be configured for off the air or for sattellite reception. So it is quite possible for it to be the same thing. I am hoping that our conversation will yield results of a positive nature. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Thanks, Ralph. You're great! I'll continue to post my observations on the dbstalk site on Tuesdays.

Got any idea when you'll be on Dish HD?

Hey Y'all:
I just had a conversation with someone at Direct TV about this audio problem. Though I didn't get the man's name, he said he would open a ticket on it and monitor the feed. I was able to show him that it was their problem, and that they would look into it. This is the day before Thanksgiving as I write this, so if any of y'all have any more problems, please report them here and on the Direct TV's website. Please report every incident, even if others have already done so. We think the problem traces back to their pickup receiver, which is the same type that we have had problems of a similar nature with the SEC football feeds. This type receiver can be configured for off the air or for sattellite reception. So it is quite possible for it to be the same thing. I am hoping that our conversation will yield results of a positive nature. Happy Thanksgiving to all!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Back to the original, recurring problem: audio burrrrps; video stutters, stalls and catches up during HD 5.1 programming on channel 24. It's not worth watching on Directv, have to tune in OTA. My DVR records the problem, so play back is no fix. I feel sorry for those depending on Directv for their local channel 24 HD signal.

I am sorry to hear that there are still problems with our signal on Direct TV. I wish I could do something about it. We did have a problem Thanksgiving night, when our microwave digital STL receiver took a walk down the frequency band. We're now looking for a part while the ENG receiver does the job. So, if anyone missed us, that's what happened.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

Ralph I saw a commercial I think Monday night on 24 that said that 24 might be dropped from cable on January 1st and that if you wish to continue to recieve FOX 24 on cable to contact your cable company and let it be known to them.

Is this a true possiblty that people with cable might lose 24 come the first of the year?

We are in the process of negotiating cable carriage with a number of cable carriers. Since I am not privvy to that information, I will have to wait and see what will happen, just like you. That's about all I can say about it.

The Direct TV audio problem may or may not be a problem with our signal. At this time, we're not sure. Direct TV says it is, and they've given us something to look at, and we will be looking into it. It is a bit odd, that cable companies are not having problems but they are. But with this medium, you never know. It could be a problem with the distances involved. We will know when we find out.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

There have been reports of other stations across the nation experiencing the audio/video problems with Direct TV. We are getting Fox Engineering in on the act, to help investigate the problem. Also Thompson Grass Valley (who monitors the splicer systems). If you can watch us off the air, then please do so, the rest of y'all will just have to be patient, while the problem is being investigated. I understand that the problem only happens during network programming. If this is not so, then let me know by posting here. And, by the way, the SEC Championship Special will not be in high def this weekend. I don't know why, they're just not transmitting it to us in high def. It wasn't on the sat coordinates sheet. That's all.

Ralph Carson
A.C.E.
WGXA TV24/DT16

It sounds a lot like a DirecTV problem I've seen reported on Fox affiliates in Charleston SC, Syracuse NY, and Pittsburgh PA as well.

- Trip

Ralph, the recurring problem seems to be with national, HD, 5.1 programming. The occasional problem (total loss of audio) involves local and national programming, and includes SD shows. My national programming observations are limited to prime-time hours during the work-week. I don't watch a lot of FOX on the weekends.

Sometimes when I'm watching channel 24 OTA, I feel like, but I'm not certain, that I detect some of the audio burping, but it is very slight, almost imperceptible to me. I have wondered whether Directv's set up is magnifying a small FOX problem. It's good to know that it's being looked at.

Hey Y'all, Thanks for the info. It will help us with our evaluation of the problem(s).

Ralph Carson
A.C.E.
WGXA TV24/DT16

Yesterday afternoon (Saturday), at about 5:45 p.m., I was switching channels and noticed that channel 24 through Directv did not have any audio. Audio was present OTA. I think "Two and a Half Men" was on during that time. It was being shown in SD. I don't know if that was network or local programming.

Ralph, last night while watching Prison Break OTA, I'm pretty certain I detected some audio brrrping four or five times. The duration was slight, but it seemed to be more pronounced than in the past.

For what it's worth, I've noticed some audio brppping on Directv's CNN and National Georgraphic HD channels, too. It's not as pronounced and frequent as with FOX HD programming, however. Hope this helps.

Hey Y'all:
We think we might be able to bring Smackdown to y'all in HD. It was originally slated to be recorded, which means it wouldn't be in HD, but there is a second feed, and we think we can get that on direct. SEC basketball will be iffy. Some of the games will be in HD, and some will not. No promises, but if we can get it on in HD, we will. Thanks for watching,

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

Hey Y'all:
We have ordered instrumentation to deal with this problem. But it will probably be delayed during Christmas. We at this time suspect the problem is ours, and as soon as we can, we'll take care of it.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

P.S. Merry Christmas to all!

This is GREAT news. The Fox programing in HD was unwatchable on DirecTV. Thanks so, so much.

Merry Christmas!


Hey Y'all:
We have ordered instrumentation to deal with this problem. But it will probably be delayed during Christmas. We at this time suspect the problem is ours, and as soon as we can, we'll take care of it.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

P.S. Merry Christmas to all!

Hey Y'all:
We have ordered instrumentation to deal with this problem. But it will probably be delayed during Christmas. We at this time suspect the problem is ours, and as soon as we can, we'll take care of it.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

P.S. Merry Christmas to all!

Great news, Ralph. Let us know when you install the instrumentation. Happy Holidays!

Hey Y'all:
We have identified a major part of the Direct TV problem. It appears that our exciter on our transmitter is the culprit. But we cannot fix it. The manufacturer has been notified, and it is up to them. The problem apparently shows up on many of that company's exciters, which is not the same brand as the transmitter itself. The company in question has a good reputation, and we expect that they will want to protect that reputation. When they provide us with a fix, we will act on it. But we don't know how long that will take. I expect it will be sometime in January. They tried a software upgrade, but to no avail. We will also monitor streams within our plant to make sure there are no other trouble spots. Merry Christmas to all!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Judging from the number of viewer complaints that I've seen posted on dbstalk, it appears that many stations across the country use that type exciter. Hopefully, the manufacturer will fix the problem soon. Ralph, any chance you will reveal the name of the manufacturer so that I can send a letter or e-mail?

I will reveal the name only if they fail to provide a satisfactory solution. Let's give them a chance to work through the problem before we hang em high! If they don't, I will provide the name and the number!

Ralph Carson
Fox TV24/DT16

P.S. I have made it very clear to them the fix we are in.

Sounds good.

Hey Y'all:
The manufacturer is sending a signal recorder so that we can send a sample of our signal problem to their laboratory for examination. We hope they will move quickly, and they appear to be doing so.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Has anyone heard anything about WMGT boosting their power in February? As of late I can't pick them up at all. I'm going to climb on the roof and make sure it's not a problem with a cable (I doubt it as I still get the other UHF channels).

I know WPGA is upping their power in February, as is WMAZ. WGXA is always coming in loud and clear (thanks again Ralph!). And WMUM is coming in great as well, although they have very little HD content as of late (I love watching This Old House in a tiny 16x9 windows in the center of my screen).

That just leaves poor little WMGT. I sure miss watching The Office and Chuck in HD. :(

In northern Treutlen County, coverage from the Macon stations is limited. After the transition, it looks as though WMAZ & WMUM will be the only stations with dependable signals. I assume WGXA is at full power, now--1,000kW. If so, I rarely am able to receive them with an Antennas Direct DB-8 at 35 feet. This may be due, in part, to what seems to be a sharp drop in gain for the DB-8 around channel 15 or 16 (not sure if this is true for the "new" design, which "boasts" a 22% increase in net gain). Perhaps WPGA will fair better.

I think a major problem with Macon is tower height, which is much lower than either Augusta or Savannah. I can receive WTOC-DT (15 @ over 75 miles) much more often than WGXA-DT (16 @ about 60 miles) and WTOC is three-quarters the ERP.

I gave up on WMGT long ago.

I plan to replace my antenna system, soon. Hopefully, that will help.

I just looked at TVFool and saw that WGXA is only putting 506 kW my way. These directional patterns are spelling doom for my OTA DTV hopes!

Yes, we are directional. We had to protect an on frequency station in Columbus as I recall.

Ralph carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

Treutlen County is southeast of Macon, opposite of the Columbus area. I wish you could crank up the ERP towards Soperton & Adrian, GA! My only hope of receiving a Fox affiliate seems to be when WFXG in Augusta moves to channel 31, ups their ERP, and becomes non-directional. Of course, tower height is a factor, too. I was looking at WFXG's tower specs as compared to the other Augusta stations I receive and it is lower. Therefore, even their changes may not benefit me.

It's really bad when receiving your local market is considered dx-ing! Oh, well, I accept the challenge. This is like a hobby! And I admit, my receiving setup has some room for improvement.

Tonight is good for reception... WGXA is at 70%, WMUM 92%, WMAZ 80%. Even WPGA & WMGT rose above the digital cliff. All the Savannah stations came in without a glitch. Augusta faired well, except for WFXG.

I'm afraid that the signal strength for WGXA DT will get much worse. We are planning to switch to the Ranger transmitter to temporarily solve the Direct TV PCR jitter problem. The Ranger is much less powerful, so some of you OTA guys will lose our signal. This will continue until further notice. We hate to do this, but there is more benefit viewer wise by getting Direct TV operational. Still, the ranger does suprisingly well, so it might not be that bad. Of course, if you lose HD over the air, there's still the old analog RCA, old faithful, putting out a powerful NTSC signal. It's not HD, but at least you'll be able to see the game. We have a couple of other tricks up our sleeve to try, and we'll do what we can until the exciter manufacturer gets their unit straightened out.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Yep, I've lost 24 down here in Eastman. :(

Hey Y'all:
We think we might be able to bring Smackdown to y'all in HD. It was originally slated to be recorded, which means it wouldn't be in HD, but there is a second feed, and we think we can get that on direct. SEC basketball will be iffy. Some of the games will be in HD, and some will not. No promises, but if we can get it on in HD, we will. Thanks for watching,

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

First I would like to thank Fox 24 for bringing Smackdown back to Macon. I have been watching this show for close to 10 years but back in Oct. the CW network took it off.

My question is that the first night Fox 24 showed Smackdown on Dec. 19th it was in HD. But the last two weeks it was only in SD. Will it be back in HD on Friday the 9th? Please do what you can to put it on in HD because that one Friday night it looked awesome.

I'm afraid that the signal strength for WGXA DT will get much worse. We are planning to switch to the Ranger transmitter to temporarily solve the Direct TV PCR jitter problem. The Ranger is much less powerful, so some of you OTA guys will lose our signal. This will continue until further notice. We hate to do this, but there is more benefit viewer wise by getting Direct TV operational. Still, the ranger does suprisingly well, so it might not be that bad. Of course, if you lose HD over the air, there's still the old analog RCA, old faithful, putting out a powerful NTSC signal. It's not HD, but at least you'll be able to see the game. We have a couple of other tricks up our sleeve to try, and we'll do what we can until the exciter manufacturer gets their unit straightened out.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

I live around Hartley Bridge Road and I had to adjust my indoor antenna for WGXA DT today. But it still got 8 out of 10 bars and it still looked great. It used to fill up all 10 bars on my signal indicator.

WGXA still good here (2 miles NE of Byron)

I've been having trouble with WPGA DT for at least a couple of weeks now. It has been good all summer and fall. Last week I noticed it would take up to a minute to lock in when switching channels, but once it did, it remained pretty solid. Tonite i cant get a lock at all. I've tried rescans and it doesn't help.

Anybody else having WPGA DT problems?

WPGA DT looks good here in Macon.

Hey Y'all:

I was not aware that the smackdown show was not being aired in HD. I'll check on this.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

P.S. OK, I can tell y'all what happened with Smackdown not being in HD. Due to the earlier football programming pushing Smackdown out of it's timeslot, it had to be recorded. We don't have the capability to record HD signals yet, due to the outrageous expense of broadcast quality HD recorders. Therefore, if we can't air it in the time slot when the feed comes down, (the second feed) the first feed which was recorded in NTSC, is run. All this new equipment is very expensive, and it will take awhile to get up to speed. What we are able to do so far, we are able to do because it could be done relatively cheaply.

i'm out on 41 almost at 96.

i get ABC, NBC, and PBS just fine.
CBS comes and goes, depending on the temperature outside. the colder it is the less likely i catch it.
FOX is now gone, but i knew that might happen (thanks ralph for the info)

sorry, for no call letters, i'm still learning what they are here.

Hey Y'all:
We're working on the problem here. We are currently transmitting at extremely low power. We are now arranging a workaround and hope to be up to at least half power by Tuesday (jan 6) evening if the workaround suceeds. Half power will go a long way to getting things back to normal, especially with a clean signal. The range actually increases with a cleaner signal, because it is more easily decoded. I suspect that the problem with the exciter will take awhile to be straightened out. We will be off the air while this workaround is being set up and tested. The good news was that the problem disappeared for the Direct TV viewers when we switched transmitters. This tells us we are on the right trail. Of course, our analog signal will operate as normal.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Ralph,

Can we expect to experience any outages during the BCS Championship game Thursday night, or do you think things will be somewhat ironed out by then. I am getting a good enough signal where I am at, so as long as it doesn't get any worse I should be ok to watch the game.

Can we expect to experience any outages during the BCS Championship game Thursday night, or do you think things will be somewhat ironed out by then. I am getting a good enough signal where I am at, so as long as it doesn't get any worse I should be ok to watch the game.rockandchelle, I hope you get to see the game Thursday, in all it's HD Glory. But, as far as I'm concerned, Utah is the National Champion
Congratulations to Utah for a Perfect Season...!!!!!!

Hey Y'all:

I was not aware that the smackdown show was not being aired in HD. I'll check on this.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

P.S. OK, I can tell y'all what happened with Smackdown not being in HD. Due to the earlier football programming pushing Smackdown out of it's timeslot, it had to be recorded. We don't have the capability to record HD signals yet, due to the outrageous expense of broadcast quality HD recorders. Therefore, if we can't air it in the time slot when the feed comes down, (the second feed) the first feed which was recorded in NTSC, is run. All this new equipment is very expensive, and it will take awhile to get up to speed. What we are able to do so far, we are able to do because it could be done relatively cheaply.

Thank you for looking into this. As long as Smackdown is back in HD this Friday at 11pm I'll be happy.

i'm out on 41 almost at 96.

i get ABC, NBC, and PBS just fine.
CBS comes and goes, depending on the temperature outside. the colder it is the less likely i catch it.
FOX is now gone, but i knew that might happen (thanks ralph for the info)

sorry, for no call letters, i'm still learning what they are here.

WMAZ DT 13-1 needs to get to work and do something about their digital station. It is the worst in town. It pixellates off and on and skips from time to time.

WMAZ DT 13-1 needs to get to work and do something about their digital station. It is the worst in town. It pixellates off and on and skips from time to time.

I think part of the problem is that it is on a low VHF channel that is very susceptible to any kind of electrical noise. When they move from channel 4 to channel 13 it should help clear up the problem.

Ralph, looks like WGXA is back here in Eastman. I still get some occasional breakups but it's not too bad.

Hey Y'all:
WGXA DT16 is up at high power again! We wired the Ranger's exciter to the Acrodyne's power amplifier. The result is 20 Kilowatts of signal power (minus antenna gain). We are at about 80% now. That is as much power as we could make without running out of linearity correction. The ranger exciter has enough correction for a small solid state amplifier but not a large vacuum tube (IOT) system This should cover most of the normal coverage area, and still satisfy Direct TV with a cleaner signal. What we did today also provides redundancy for future problems. This will hold us over until the normal exciter can be repaired. And thanks to Hugh Allegood (a top notch consulting engineer) who helped. So, y'all enjoy!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Hey Y'all Smackdown fans:
I cannot guarantee that Smackdown will be in HD as long as there are football games on in the same day that can push programming into it's time slot. Once that happens, the tape has to be used, and it isn't high def.

Ralph Carson
A.C.E.
WGXA

ralph,
where i'm at i'm getting a signal of ~65/100 on my dish receiver. think the signal used to be at around 80 or so, but at least i have fox again. which is amazing i get it, because the other stations usually go out when below 70-75/100.

WGXA TV24/DT16 is back to full strengh at my house and looks good.

Thre isn't any football on this Friday so I'll look foward to Smackdown in HD.

Ralph,

Is there any news about Macon getting a Retro Television Network station? Atlanta has one on WSB 2-2 channel. It would be great if WGXA could put one on channel 24-2 or WPGA could put one on channel 58-2. I love the shows that the Retro Television Network has and it would be great if the network would come to Macon.

http://www.myretrotv.com/

We at this time have no plans for a secondary channel. We were talking about it at one time, to the point that I drew up the plans for a system, but it fell through. When we upgrade to a digital High Def master control, we will have a lot of unused analog gear that might be useful for that, but right now, we're trying to get some redundancy in place so that a failure of any part of our digital air chain won't knock us totally off the air. So, I don't forsee it in the immediate future. However, you never know what's going on in corporate offices, so we'll see.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Hey Y'all Direct TV Viewers:
Direct TV is still complaining of errors in our signal. Are any of y'all seeing visible or audible problems?

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

I watched "Bones" last night via Directv HD and did not detect any problems. I even sang your praises to my wife and daughter. I'll tune in tonight for some prime-time programming and see if I can detect anything.

P.S. OK, I can tell y'all what happened with Smackdown not being in HD. Due to the earlier football programming pushing Smackdown out of it's timeslot, it had to be recorded. We don't have the capability to record HD signals yet, due to the outrageous expense of broadcast quality HD recorders.

Fascinating information and appreciate you providing the insight. I am curious (enough to show my ignorance of the situation) what constitututes "broadcast quality" (BQ) in HD equipment. I could understand BQ equipment in the good ol' analog days where the intrinsic quality was required to ensure steady picture and good PQ through copying, editing, etc. Today the signal is digital...so why can't something like a HD Tivo be used to record a feed? Or even the Hauppauge HD recorder? I've gotta think that even a slightly degraded WS HD feed is preferable to 4X3 NTSC limited to 480i (does BQ NTSC equipment even provide 480i?).

I heard the big problem is delay. When you press play, it has to go now, not in 5 seconds, or whenever it gets around to loading, else you're left with a couple seconds of blank space which quickly adds up into one or more 30-second spots.

But I'll let Mr. Carson give the final word on it. =) He knows better than I do!

- Trip

Hey, that's a very good question! And I have some very good answers. To start with, just as in analog, the tolerances are tighter, or there is signal processing that the consumer gear won't have. Of course, considering the problems we've been having, I wonder about that. But that's the way it's supposed to be.

If the signal elements are encoded sloppily, it might be readable with a strong signal input to the receiver, but a signal from an antenna on the fringes of the reception area might not be decodable with sloppy signal elements. Imagine you are about to watch Smackdown after the Georgia game, it has been delayed, and the game was good, the commercials are good, then smackdown comes on, suddenly the picture's blocking up and finally goes to black. If you left the TV on, when the commercial comes on, suddenly the picture's just perfect! You just need a consistant quality level.

Next is that the signal types and connectors are different. That's just an all around headache.

Third, consumer gear has no control interfaces (GPI's) to allow external control of the equipment, and I rather doubt there is an RS422 port that uses Sony protocol.

And finally, the consumer gear just isn't built with professional ruggedness, and doesn't have rack mounts.

And as far as delays go, the video and audio must be in sync. Errors are cumulative in a large plant, so it must be kept in sync at all stages.

The final straw is that consumer gear does not have genlock connections to keep the equipment timed to the house. This is also true with analog gear. The result is that when you switch to it at the studio, the resultant glitch in the data stream causes the receivers at home to lose lock and that is demonstrated as a momentary loss of audio and video. And maybe some nasty pixellation.

So there's your answer.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

P.S. Actually, we can compensate for startup delay, the switcher does that automatically. This was common in the analog days when the older tape machines needed a full 5 seconds to lock up. The operator would work by a precise clock, start the transition 5 seconds in advance. The switcher would immediately roll the tape, and five seconds later would make the switch. It's still done that way, but the roll time is down to about two seconds.

Hey Y'all Direct TV Viewers:
Direct TV is still complaining of errors in our signal. Are any of y'all seeing visible or audible problems?

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16


Thursday night, I watched the game via Directv HD. I did not notice any audio or video glitches. However, the test will be "Prison Break," which was virtually unwatchable via Dtv HD.

or forgot that SNL is supposed to be in HD. Ugh. Is it too much to ask for stuff to be done right?

DIRTFT!

Thanks for all the good info. Smackdown looked great in HD Friday night. It was awesome.

or forgot that SNL is supposed to be in HD. Ugh. Is it too much to ask for stuff to be done right?

DIRTFT!

SNL looked horrible Saturday night. It was in a box in the middle of the screen. I watched about 2 minutes of it and changed the channel.

About 35-40 minutes in, someone must have switched it. Looked great in typical NBC HD. Then about 10 mins before the end of the show, it went SD again. Weird...

Too bad you switched, the first half of the show was actually funny this week.


SNL looked horrible Saturday night. It was in a box in the middle of the screen. I watched about 2 minutes of it and changed the channel.

Hey, Ralph. American Idol via Directv HD was, as far as I could tell, problem free!

Excellent!

Ralph Carson
WGXA

Ralph,

8:00 Mon House was not in HD...FYI

back on at 8:42 Horray!!

SNL looked horrible Saturday night. It was in a box in the middle of the screen. I watched about 2 minutes of it and changed the channel.

WMGT still hasn't impressed on the master control operator that they need to pay attention instead of talkin' on the cell phone.

WMGT... We Might Get Television

I am experiencing a lot of drop out lately. Has the signal been weakened ?
I can not receive 13 at all, but never have. I live off 96 near 41.
Any suggestions? I am using the Dish Local Tuner to pick up HD locals.

Hey Y'all:
We had a problem with our Fox splicer system which prevented it from switching to HD Monday night during "House". Just an occaisional glitch. Digital stuff is so finicky. A reboot, and it's OK. We are currently trying to come up with a splicer failure workaround that will allow HD backup. Currently we can bypass, but it only provides a standard def picture.

Also, we were testing a new PSIP system Monday. During the day, we had to reboot the Flexicoder a number of times. It still isn't right. That caused complete loss of signal while rebooting. As far as our signal strength goes, we're about 80% right now because of the exciter PCR Jitter problem.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

We are currently trying to come up with a splicer failure workaround that will allow HD backup. Currently we can bypass, but it only provides a standard def picture.

Isn't Fox supposed to be providing you guys with one or two new splicers before the fall season for HD overlay and to make the current one into a backup? I remember hearing that.

- Trip

Hey Y'all:
We had a problem with our Fox splicer system which prevented it from switching to HD Monday night during "House". Just an occaisional glitch. Digital stuff is so finicky. A reboot, and it's OK. We are currently trying to come up with a splicer failure workaround that will allow HD backup. Currently we can bypass, but it only provides a standard def picture.

Also, we were testing a new PSIP system Monday. During the day, we had to reboot the Flexicoder a number of times. It still isn't right. That caused complete loss of signal while rebooting. As far as our signal strength goes, we're about 80% right now because of the exciter PCR Jitter problem.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16
Fortunately, the new administration is going to move the transition out several months, possibly a year or more... otherwise, going completely off the air for reboots would generate a significant number of complaints!

I'm starting to think that the broadcasters aren't ready for the transition, either, so I'm swinging toward supporting a delay in the transition.

Hey Y'all:
Trip in VA is correct. Fox intends to upgrade their system. I know there will be new IRDs (receivers) and I hear there will be a new splicer. But I don't know what else. Apparently, Fox is going to a new encoding standard, MPEG 4. The new receivers will receive the new signals, and convert them to regular MPEG for broadcast. Fox has often upgraded their system even when we have not been reporting problems. We are hoping to get a Net VX to replace the flexicoder, with the flexicoder serving redundancy. But not this year. Once we have this, it will not be necessary to interrupt the air signal to straighten out a balky encoder. We're working on reliability/redundancy before building out for more capability.

Unfortunately, delaying the transition date six months will cost us about $50,000.00 in electricity costs. That is what it costs to run the analog transmitter for that period of time. This doesn't improve the possibility of making improvements in our plant. Make it a year, and it will be $100,000.00. And that doesn't include maintenance costs for an aging system. We are not happy about the extension. It just drags it out longer.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Unfortunately, delaying the transition date six months will cost us about $50,000.00 in electricity costs. That is what it costs to run the analog transmitter for that period of time. This doesn't improve the possibility of making improvements in our plant. Make it a year, and it will be $100,000.00. And that doesn't include maintenance costs for an aging system. We are not happy about the extension. It just drags it out longer.
Yeah, but going off the air to reboot equipment because of bugs will... well... bug... the sales department no end.

Not to mention viewers.

Imagine the fun when a tornado's rippin' through the outer edges of a city and everybody has to reboot their digital gear because of the power surges the protection gear didn't suppress.

"Oh, you thought you could depend on television stations to warn you about a tornado coming toward your neighborhood? Don't be silly."

Sure, that's extreme and not even a likely case. It's also true that it's not the responsibility of any broadcast station to protect people...

There's going to be a much bigger outrage when people miss 30 seconds of Idol or CSI because of software bugs.

The answer might be to provide government funds to stations to cover the costs of maintaining the analog plant. More people care about watching TV than care about the name on the bank where they cash their paycheck.

The government mandates upgrades and expenditures to TV stations all the time, never offers a dime in compensation. Why would they start now?

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

well, ralph you may be spared. if what is being broadcast online is true, broadcasters will still be able to swith on the 17th with out penalty. would be nice if this is true. really waiting for stations like wmaz to go full digital power.

well, ralph you may be spared. if what is being broadcast online is true, broadcasters will still be able to swith on the 17th with out penalty. would be nice if this is true. really waiting for stations like wmaz to go full digital power.
I am aware of several groups that will switch on 2/17, numbering somewhere over 100 stations. That is unless Congress comes through and makes it illegal to turn off the analog.

As long as it is voluntary, the analog transmitters will be gone on 2/17.

Ralph,

I don't know if its possible or not but I thought I would see if Channel 24 could show some TV shows that I haven't seen in a long time. I noticed on evenings between 4 and 8 and late at night after 11 you only show a small handful of shows and you even show paid programming on Saturday afternoon. Here are some shows I would like to see.

CHiPs
The A-Team
The Fall Guy
Perfect Strangers
The Incredible Hulk
The Misadventures of Sheriff Lobo
Simon & Simon
Mama's Family
Carson's Comedy Classics

I would love to see these shows again.

Hey Y'all:
Add "I Dream of Jeanie" to that list. Yum Yum! Unfortunately, an engineer can't help you with that. You need to talk to the program director. Good Luck!

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

well, ralph you may be spared. if what is being broadcast online is true, broadcasters will still be able to swith on the 17th with out penalty. would be nice if this is true. really waiting for stations like wmaz to go full digital power.

The bill the Senate passed today (Monday), and that will probably pass Congress on Tuesday will delay the mandatory transition to June 12. But it will allow broadcasters to turn off the analog transmitters at will.

From the Associated Press article http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20090127/ap_on_go_ca_st_pe/digital_transition_delay

Paula Kerger, president and CEO of the Public Broadcasting Service, estimates that delaying the digital TV transition to June 12 would cost public broadcasters $22 million.

But [Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Jay] Rockefeller managed to ease some of these concerns by allowing broadcast stations to make the switch from analog to digital signals sooner than the June deadline if they choose and by permitting public safety agencies to take over vacant spectrum that has been promised to them as soon as it becomes available.

Hey Y'all:
Add "I Dream of Jeanie" to that list. Yum Yum! Unfortunately, an engineer can't help you with that. You need to talk to the program director. Good Luck!

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

I would have but I have all 5 seasons of I Dream of Jeannie on DVD. Its one of my favorite comedys.

The House of Representatives just voted down a bill to postpone the mandatory cutoff date for analog signals to June. Here is a link to the story:

http://apnews1.iwon.com//article/20090128/D960A21G0.html

Barring any reconsideration by Congress, the digital transition will occur on February 17.

Hey Y'all:
The DTV transition was not passed in the house. It was voted under rules that required a super majority. The Republicans didn't support it, and I suspect the Democrats will bring it back under different rules. I don't know a whole lot about precedural rules in the House, but I suspect this will not be the last we hear of it. The Democrats have a strong majority in the House and it is most likely the majority that are not ready for the transition are their constituents.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Are the Macon stations going to go widescreen with their local news coverage come Feb 17th, or whatever date the transition takes effect. I was watching WMAZ the other day and the during a sports spot, the picture looked like an anamorphic pic coming from a DVD player not properly set for a 4:3 tv?

Hey Y'all:
I can't speak for the other stations, but we do not intend to attempt to fake it. In other words, we won't stretch the picture. When we get HD cameras, we will display it in widescreen. But before that can happen, we have to work on our infrastructure. This requires the purchase of switching equipment, routing, special effects gear, and character generators. I expect the first thing we will do is to upgrade Sheena, our video server. That will allow us to record syndicated shows, such as smackdown and Raycom sports, in HD and play them back. There is a lot to do.

Ralph Carson
WGXA TV24/DT16

WPGA has put in notice that they will be ending their analog next month... regardless of any possible delay.

~Alan

Hey Y'all:
If the law allows it, we will also.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Actually, the picture on WMAZ doesn't look stretched, but rather it looks like a widescreen picture being squeezed into a 4:3 frame. I saw it again with their sports coverage just yesterday. Looks odd.

It is my understanding WMAZ will change digital transmission channels from chanel 4 to chanel 13 on 18 Feb. Is anyone having a problem with the digital signal for channel 41?

WMGT's digital signal contour barely reaches Dublin. So those on the fringe, as I am in Treutlen County, rarely finds WMGT's digital signal (perhaps at 3 in the morning when the wind is blowing in the right direction). Even the Fox affiliate is poor, here, because of it's directional pattern. It looks as though WMAZ & WMUM will be my most dependable dtv stations. Right now, with WMAZ on chnnel 4, impulse noise sometimes makes it barely watchable. The move to 13 will hopefully solve most of that problem. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for WPGA when it fires up 1,000 kW NON-DIRECTIONAL.

As I have mentioned before, another problem with Macon is tower height. I am 59 miles from the Macon towers & almost 80 miles from the Augusta towers; yet, I get more stations from Augusta. The biggest difference I see is tower height. Macon needs to realize "size does matter!"

I sometimes wonder if stations could have made better choices with their dtv channel selections in order to avoid directional patterns. For instance, WFXG, in Augusta, was orignially suppose to use channel 51, directional, for post-transition dtv. Instead, they filed to maximize their coverage by switching to channel 31, increasing power and using a non-directional pattern. Some of the charts I've seen, showing the post-transition stats for WFXG, indicate the channel 31 change, but still show it as being directional. I hope that's an error.

Yep, 41's digital signal has completely disappeared for me here in Eastman. 58 doesn't come in like it used to here either. I thought maybe it was a cable problem on my setup, but after replacing the cable it's still a no-go.

The macon station's tower heigth is not likely to change. Each station has it's own tower, and would have to bear the expense on it's own. As for WGXA, as soon as Rhode and Schwarz repairs our exciter, we will go full power again. Currently we are running at about 80%. WMGT elected to go with an under powered transmitter, so they will be weaker than the rest of us, unless they buy a new transmitter or convert their analog transmitter to digital. WMAZ appears to be under construction. I suspect they're building a new transmitter. They better hurry, it's getting down to crunch time!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Thanks, Ralph. I forgot about WGXA's problems. Hopefully when you are able to go 100% I will get your signal. Your directional pattern only puts a little over half your total ERP in my direction (around 500 kW per TVFool) when you are at full power. Another problem is with my setup... I am currently using an Antennas Direct DB-8 and I think the gain drops quite a bit around channel 15 & 16. I hope to be replacing it, soon.

Hey Y'all:
If the law allows it, we will also.

Well, Ralph,

I notice the FCC now has notice that ya'll will be shutting down on the 14th of this month!

Congratulations! ;)

~Alan

Well, here it is straight from the horse's mouth (in regard to WMGT):

From: Barry Stubbs <#############>
To: Todd ####### <#############>
Sent: Monday, February 2, 2009 1:54:49 PM
Subject: Re: Over the Air signal strength

Todd,

We are running at our maximum FCC rated power on the digital. So, unfortunately, no, we will not be increasing our signal strength.

Barry Stubbs
Chief Engineer, WMGT-TV/DT

Looks like no NBC HD for me. :(

Well, it seems to me WMGT made a poor choice with their dtv channel selection. Then, again, maybe that was the only allocation the FCC would allow. I've sort of lost my knowledge of the broadcasting industry. In my younger days, I was involved in radio broadcasting and was up to speed on the subject of FCC rules and regulations. I was around when AM stereo was getting started (yeah, that was a real winner, :D)!! You know how it is, if you don't use it, you lose it!!

I tend to think that if a broadcaster is really interested in his service area, he would do what it takes to provide maximum coverage. Back in the early 70's, I was able to receive Macon's channel 41. Eventually, it became impossible. I don't remember if their call letters were the same as today. That was probably under different ownership. Heck, they may still be using equipment from the late 60's or early 70's! :p

My interest in Macon is because it is my DMA. I wish my current satellite provider would understand that. They will only allow me Augusta because they only use my zip code to determine what locals I can get. The other satellite service takes it one step further and actually looks at your location by county. I could change satellite providers, but with my chances of receiving WMAZ, WPGA and maybe WGXA being good, my local news & weather will be covered.

Hey Y'all:
Our cutoff day will be February 17th. That's when channel 24 analog goes dark.

So, channel 41 is at full legal power. I didn't know that.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

Hey Y'all:
Our cutoff day will be February 17th. That's when channel 24 analog goes dark.

So, channel 41 is at full legal power. I didn't know that.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

I wish Mr. Stubbs would visit like you do Ralph. Be nice to see another local engineer here.

What does "full legal power" mean? At first I thought it was just how much power their transmitter puts out but legal part is confusing.

Maximum power they're allowed to run by the FCC.

- Trip

Back in the early 70's, I was able to receive Macon's channel 41. Eventually, it became impossible. I don't remember if their call letters were the same as today.
They were WCWB (We Can't, We're Broke)... now WMGT (We Might Get Television)

WMGT's digital suffers from an increased noise floor a bit... their digital is on UHF 40, and the analog's on UHF 41. When 41 goes dark, hopefully the noise floor will decrease a bit.

Database shows their digital antenna 52 meters down the tower from the analog. I've not asked, nor checked, but they could probably retune the higher antenna... or move the new one to the top of the tower. Another 150 feet would be helpful to some.

I don't see a CP for it, but my understanding is that WPGA-DT will increase power and go unidirectional post-transition - just don't count on it being on 2/17 itself (some sort of antenna trouble). Currently, they're protecting analog 32, WNEG, Toccoa (which, in turn, is protecting analog 24, WGXA, Macon)

EDIT: I did check, post-transition, WPGA-DT will go to 1000 kilowatts effective radiated power, non-directional, at 244.1 meters above average terrain, staying on channel 32.

WMAZ-DT will move to channel 13, looks to be going to 52.6kw from the top of their tower, non-directional.

END OF EDIT.


It'll be interesting to see how things shake out... I'm most concerned that WGXA-DT get back to full power... I'm in the null on the directional pattern, and I'm gonna be some kinda unhappy camper if I can't get the Daytona 500 in high def (way too much noise right now)

The house just passed a DTV transition delay bill all that is needed now is the presidents signature. :(

http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c111:S.352.ES:

yes, they passed it but it won't really affect us. As Ralph has said he will turn Fox's analog signal off the 17 and NBC and ABC I'm sure would do the same. The one question is WMAZ, depends when they get their stuff finished if they haven't already. The bill allows stations to change if they are ready. It basically gives broadcasters a 4 month window to switch over instead of 1 day.

More info about the transition delay bill that was passed:

The FCC has published a Public Notice regarding the DTV Delay. Some highlights from a quick reading:


Stations must file by February 9 if they plan on keeping their February 17 transition date.


Stations might be required to defend their plan if all stations in a market are transitioning and that market has a large group of unprepared households.


Stations may not transition between February 18 and March 13.


The new date for 30 advance filing is March 14.


Stations that have an interim digital channel assignment must stay on that assignment until June 12


The whole notice is at: http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-09-6A1.pdf

Hey Ralph.

I've lost WGXA here in Eastman. Has anything changed power-wise? I'm thinking it might be a cable but wanted to make sure before I climbed on the roof. Thanks.

Hey Todd:
We haven't changed our signal since we cut in the Harris exciter. We're about 80% right now. When we get back on the Rodhe & Schwarz exciter, we'll return to full power. Rodhe has been slow to respond.

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

http://www.13wmaz.com/article/20090210/NEWS01/90210015

http://www.13wmaz.com/article/20090210/NEWS01/90210015

Yes, WMAZ will be the only analog station in Macon by the end of the month.

Hope they are aware that should they decide to shut down prior to June, they will no longer be able to use channel 13 until June 12th.

~Alan

I'm sure WMAZ's Chief Engineer is up on the regulations.

Ralph Carson
WGXA

I'm sure WMAZ's Chief Engineer is up on the regulations.

I'm sure he is (along with WMAZ's lawyers)... much more than I am anyway...

I just posted my first thoughts after reading the link though... since it talked about them possibly shutting down BEFORE June... but didn't state that it wouldn't be on their final digital channel.

~Alan

I'm sure WMAZ's Chief Engineer is up on the regulations.


I know the new rules require it, but how 'bout putting the crawl on the analog only? It's gonna be some kinda annoying during the Daytona 500. Probably to the point of "screw it, hello MRN on Sirius 128." (ooops, that'll tick off the sales dept at Cumulus... oh, well)

They could easily file a request for an STA to operate 13 before June 12. Lots of stations have filed for such authority.

- Trip

would be nice if they are not going to kill the analogue signal to maybe decrease it's power and up the power of the digital signal a bit. they are the only local station that breaks up on me.

would be nice if they are not going to kill the analogue signal to maybe decrease it's power and up the power of the digital signal a bit. they are the only local station that breaks up on me.

Unfortunately, those breakups are the nature of low-VHF operation. I doubt more power would fix it.

- Trip

I agree...that crawl knocked HD off AI tonight (the horror!), and it will be worse during the race since lots of people will be watching. Ralph, is that possible?

Yep, I had a bad cable. I'm picking up 24 at almost 95% now. I'm even getting 58 again. Of course, WMGT is a no-go.

Ralph, you heard anything of late about Dish Network adding Macon HD locals? With the new bird in the air, Dish has been uplinking HD locals left and right with the exception of Macon.

The latest Retailer Chat showed the following HD Locals launching soon:

HD Locals Market Launches: Launching on February 18th: Cedar Rapids, IA; Champaign, IL; Dayton, OH; Fresno, CA; New Orleans, LA; Toledo OH.

Launching February 25th Charleston, SC; Colorado Springs, CO; El Paso, TX; Savahhah, GA; Tallahasse, FL; Tri Cities, TN/VA.

Scheduled to Launch sometime in March include: Albany, Ga; Deluth, MN; Indianapolis, IN; Palm Springs, CA; Santa Barbra, CA; Bakersfield, CA; Erie, PA; Lafayette, LA; Peoria, Il; Sherman-Ada Tx/OK; Boise, ID; Eugene, OR; Las Vegas, NV; Roanoke, Val Sioux City, IA; Chico, CA; Fargo ND; Monterey, CA; Reno, NV; Yakima, WA; Corpus Christi TV, Harlingen, TX; Montgomery, AL; Rockford, IL, Youngstown, PA/OH.

HD Locals coming after March, Baton Rouge, LA; Ft. Smith, AR; Great Falls, MT; Medford, Or; Panama City, FL; Butte MT; Ft. Wayne IN; Idaho Falls, ID; Meridian, MS; Sious Falls, SD; Cheyenne, WY; Gainsville, FL; Johnstown, PA; Minot, ND; Terre Haute, IN; Columbus, OH; Grand Junction, CO; La Crosse, WI; Missoula MT; Twin Falls, ID; Columbus-Tupelo, MS; Ft. Smith AR; Laredo, TX; Odessa, TX; Wausau, WI.

And I didn't see Macon, GA anywhere in there. Oh, well, I was hoping it would be coming soon.

Also, the above information came from satelliteguys.us.

A quick word of thanks to Ralph and the gang at WGXA for keeping the crawl off the HD broadcast of the Daytona 380 on Sunday.

I'm tempted to put VCRs on the analog channels tonight and record a little bit of the end of the era... heh...

Hey y'all:
I don't know about Dish Network, but I do know Direct TV is broadcasting Local into Local for Macon. better to get it off the air if you can, I hear they recompress the signal and that reduces the picture fidelity, though I don't know if that is true. Perhaps some of you who can receive it both ways could enlighten me on this. Hey, I hear that we're getting a visit from Uncle Charlie tomorrow to watch over the transition. I guess they want to guage the public's reaction to the loss of signal. Anyway, it happens at high noon!

Ralph Carson
Assistant Chief Engineer
WGXA TV24/DT16

When everything is working properly, I can't tell a difference between Directv local HD and OTA HD. The MPEG4 compression scheme seems to work really well.

So does anybody know what WPGA power is today (16 Feb) and when they will go to 1000KW? Will that be 17 Feb? Not that i watch them that much - but i like to have the option. For the last few weeks, they have been below lock threshold on my receiver.