Originally posted by johnwcookjr
Warren,

The last two weeks ABC has aired a 007 film and Armagedon in HD yet KETV-DT was broadcasting SD. Others in the HD Programming forum have stated that ABC OTA of these films in their towns were in HD. Are you receiving an HD feed of the Saturday night films? Anyway to pass the Saturday night HD movies on to us?

Thanks, John

I like HDSteven researched this, I went back to November 17th and could not find a 007 movie. But did talk to the Master Control operator who was on duty Saturday night, and we did have a switching error on the HD side. We ran one segment as SD.

Sorry about that, we try to avoid this. When we pass ABC HD through, we preset a "special" switch, and we forgot to preset it coming out of one break.

Thanks for letting me know.

Warren

Thanks for checking, the 007 film in question may have been aired on WOWT-DT or may have been a few weeks earlier "View to a kill" I beleive was the name. This happens after fourty. ;)

It must have been my luck that I tuned in during the HD switch mishap, I saw window boxed bars on the sides and assumed no HD-OAR.

Thanks,

John

WOWT has not experienced any transmitter failures for several weeks. We now feel confident that all the 'bugs' have been addressed and a reliable system is present.

NBC has had trouble with the HD feeds lately. If you are viewing programming and a small NBC peacock suddenly appears in the center of the screen, NBC New York is expierencing problems and are placing the logo to inform the affiliates that it is not a data transmission problem but a origination problem.

Jay Nix
Chief Engineer
WOWT-Omaha

Originally posted by KETV
No word back from the FCC on the power increase as of yet. I will post when I do receive this authorization, and actually increase the power on the transmitter. I am still running at 10Kw ERP.

It is interesting during the night the signal level increases so much. The layers of the ionosphere must be changing and affecting the signal as it travels through "free space".


Warren,

Just wondered if there was any differance in the power of the signal you put out tonight. I was suprised to see my KETV signal lock on at 60% tonight at 6 oclock when I tried it. Normally it will bouce around and never lock until around 9 oclock or so and even then its around 40%. Was happy to see it, got to watch all of monday night football on the digital side for once!

Originally posted by sb60634
Warren,

Just wondered if there was any differance in the power of the signal you put out tonight. I was suprised to see my KETV signal lock on at 60% tonight at 6 oclock when I tried it. Normally it will bouce around and never lock until around 9 oclock or so and even then its around 40%. Was happy to see it, got to watch all of monday night football on the digital side for once!

Still at the same power level, no word from the FCC as of yet on the power increase. Must be a Christmas present on your receive side tonight!!!

Have a great Holiday!!!

Quote I found

"CBS Television and Thomson's RCA brand have entered into an advertising agreement for Thomson to sponsor high-definition coverage of the AFC Divisional Playoff games on January 11 and 12, 2003, and the AFC Championship game on January 19, 2003. Produced by CBS, the three live HDTV telecasts will be unified productions with the analog broadcasts and will, therefore, include commentary and analysis from the same broadcast teams as the analog audience. As with all of CBS Sports' HD productions, these three games will be broadcast in 1920X1080i, the highest definition widescreen digital television format."

Are we going to be able to get CBS from Omaha? Or at least point to lincoln?

I'm led to believe we are a few months at best to get a CBS-DT signal on air.

antennaweb.org says jan 1 for the lincoln hd feed.

In the not great news category:

I spoke again to KXVO/KPTM. They have their transmitter and most everything in place. They figure by the end of January now. Worst of all, they don't have the capability to pass the HDTV signal from WB. That would be next. Also they are only going to be broadcasting at 1kW at 300ft. Not a very big coverage area. Probably won't get them here in Lincoln. Not even sure North Omaha will see that one! I didn't ask how long before they started to go higher power.

I'm trying to get an an answer from KOLN/KGIN in Lincoln for a live date for a CBS broadcast. I doubt any of us (except the COX digital subscribers) are going to see HDTV AFC playoffs.

Can't wait for the superbowl. Hope the atmosphere is quiet that day!

Doug

Originally posted by dougehlers
In the not great news category:

I spoke again to KXVO/KPTM. They have their transmitter and most everything in place. They figure by the end of January now. Worst of all, they don't have the capability to pass the HDTV signal from WB.


Is this really bad news? I mean, does KPTM/KXVO really offer any programming worth watching?

I swear to god they must use 10th generation VHS copies of their programming because it looks AWFUL. Even on regular NTSC OTA, it looks **awful**.

Fox and WB programming is really nothing to get too excited about, anyway. They are third tier networks, really.

-- Robert

Robert,

Does Rupert Murdoch own our local KXVO/KPTM affiliates? From what I've read he's very anti-HD, choosing multi-casting 480p in place of meeting our expectations and broadcasting HD 720p or 1080i.

I wish he, or congress/fcc, would get him in step with the program.

John

John,

KXVO/KPTM are owned by Pappas broadcasting. I'm sure like many broadcasters they are just looking to meet minimum requirements until such time as there is an economic reason to switch. Like viewers...

Robert,
As far as WB/FOX programming, generally I agree. I do however watch a lot of football so 480p widescreen is still better than NTSC, and I am admittedly a WB junkie so my motivation for some of the HD programming is based on that. They do have a fairly decent viewership despite being second tier.

Most importantly, is anything HD being broadcast right now. CBS has the affiliates that need to catch up in my opinion. They have had the most HD programming for the longest period of time, yet basically no presence here in NE.

Doug

Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm in Fremont watching NBC and ABC perfectly. I took this forums advice and tried the Antennacraft MXU-59 from Zager in Lincoln. Only $45 and not too wide, although it is 100" long. I didn't even have to try and use a compass to get the signals as they were there immediately. No amp needed. Just thought I would let this forum know that Fremont can pick up those two stations in omaha with ease. I just love watching ER and Leno in 1080i on my 65" Diamond. Beautiful.

Bearcat2002,

Congrats and Welcome!

Doug

Hi everyone,

Jay Nix: I just thought I would inform you that I live about 70 miles from Omaha(by the way the crow flies) and I am receiving WOWT on 6-1 at a signal level from 93-100 on my Hughes E86 STB. I am using a 40' outside pole mounted antenna w/rotor that I have used for years for analog tv. The picture is outstanding! I am anxiously awaiting Dolby Digital 5.1 audio from your station. Keep up the good work!

Originally posted by gpflepsen
Just an idea.... Is it possible to have a small logo on the broadcast station's web site indicating if they are broadcasting in HDTV?

Something like a HDTV logo with a green or red light would be neat. That would keep guys like Jeff and I from pulling our hair out trying to tune in a non-existent signal. And I don't have a lot of hair to frivolously pull out :)

Per the suggestion of gpflepsen, KETV has added a link on our website (www.theomahachannel.com) to KETV-DT operation times and status.

You will find it under "Coming Up On KETV 7" on the main page, just click on HDTV: KETV-DT Program Schedule.

Thank-You for the suggestion as I have noticed Titantv.com does not have the operation times correct of KETV-DT.

Originally posted by KETV
Per the suggestion of gpflepsen, KETV has added a link on our website (www.theomahachannel.com) to KETV-DT operation times and status.

You will find it under "Coming Up On KETV 7" on the main page, just click on HDTV: KETV-DT Program Schedule.

Thank-You for the suggestion as I have noticed Titantv.com does not have the operation times correct of KETV-DT.

:) Cool! What's the word on getting the power increased? Super Bowl is only days away, or so it seems. Thanks for everything!

I still have not received any notice from the FCC on the power increase from my current power level with the temporary DTV antenna.

I might have confused the issue due to I am also filing for a change from my temporary DTV antenna and current power level, to the new dual antenna and 300Kw power increase in June of this year. I may need to clear that up.

I am hoping for a little stronger signal from KETV for the Superbowl also!
Sometimes at nite the signal is okay, daytime not so good. What happened
last sunday during the Sound of Music? First half of the movie was wonderful picture and sound then the picture started to pixelate bad and I lost signal for the rest of the nite.

Thanks to KETV for the link on they're website it been useful already.

Is anyone else having audio dropout problems on KETV (20-1)? This started on Wed Jan 1 and has not cleared up. I am getting a solid signal of 40 right now and still getting audio dropouts. I have never had this problem before and WOWT (6-1) and 31-1 do not have this problem. Even when signal strength was in the 70's lastnight during the Miami/Ohio State game I was getting dropouts.

Just want to see if it is my equipment or possibly a problem on the KETV side.


Thanks
Jeff

Lincoln, NE

I don't think there is a problem with your receive equipment, I think it is just the receive level you have. KETV-DT’s transmit antenna as compared to WOWT-DT is roughly 500' lower in elevation. I believe that is the main problem. A little more power would help, but elevation is the biggest factor. This will get better in June of this year when we install our permanent antenna at the top of the tower, and increase power to 300Kw.

I just tuned to channel 20 and watched for 5 minutes and did not notice the audio dropouts. I have line of sight to the towers at 72nd street from my house, so my signal is really good.

I watched the Sound of Music Sunday night myself in surround sound, and did not have any problems. I did however notice the audio level dropped quite a bit switching from ABC in 5.1 to local. I did make some adjustments on my Dolby audio encoder on the 5.1 side this week, and I believe I have them matched between ABC in HD and local.

Warren,

Thank you for the info. I posted because I did not have this dropout problem until Wed Jan 1. Up until then if I got at least a solid signal of 34 I had no problems with the picture or audio.

Looking forward to that power increase in June!

Thanks again
Jeff

I see Willy Wonka and Chocolate Factory is in HD tonight on KETV. Let's home the transmitters don't melt themselves... I am not sure this has ever been shown in HD before, so I really look forward to seeing this classic in HD.

Good luck, KETV! :)

-- Robert

I am thinking about buying a UHF only antenna(currently have a RS yagi in the attic) to try to increase signal strength. I am getting an uneasy feeling about the Superbowl reception from KETV, the recent weather has made reception bad. I know Warren from KETV is doing all he can and I appreciate his contribution to this forum. I realize moving the antenna outside would be best but I would like to keep it in attic. I am going to move the antenna to the north end of the attic close to the window(A-frame type house) and experiment with opening the window during critical viewing hours(there goes the gas bill). Do UHF only work good in attics and will moving the antenna close to a wall as opposed to being centered in the attic make reception worse(reflections)? I guess to experiment is the only to find out.

Steve

HDSteven: Where do you live in Lincoln? What do you use for a tuner? I'm curious as I have Dish's Model 6000 and can't get a lock with my Antennacraft MXU-59 yagi in the attic. I'm at 40th and Old Cheney.

I live in the Havelock area(NE Lincoln), clear line of sight to the northeast out of Lincoln, which is probably better for reception out of Omaha. I have the Samsung SIRT-165 OTA tuner. Radioshack adjustable/FM trap preamp Cat. No. 15-1108A, you will need a preamp in a attic install.

Tonight the reception from KETV was good only intermitent breakup. The audio level is much better per Warren's (KETV) adjustment. WOWT has always been good. I think in June when KETV boost power and mounts the transmitter higher we will get excellent reception.

I moved my antenna to the north side of attic no change in digital reception
and more ghosting on analog channels so I will move it back to the center of the attic soon.

rbwapiti,

Glad to hear that you are receiving us 70 miles out.

Jay
WOWT

Jay
WOWT

Reception is always really good, no dropouts, signal meter on Samsung tuner shows about 55% for WOWT, 55% for KLKN, 45% for KETV. I wanted to ask Jay(WOWT) if you know why on my tuner WOWT's digital channel(22) remaps to 6-1? KETV stays at 20-1 and KLKN stays at 31-1. Is WOWT broadcasting their digital channel in UHF or VHF band ?

Just curious
Steve

Originally posted by gpflepsen
HDSteven: Where do you live in Lincoln? What do you use for a tuner? I'm curious as I have Dish's Model 6000 and can't get a lock with my Antennacraft MXU-59 yagi in the attic. I'm at 40th and Old Cheney.


Also in addition to the other info I posted about my installation, the constuction materials in your attic can effect your reception. I have no foil or metal type material or insulation/drywall in nonfinished attic.

Have you tried a preamp? A rotor helps experimenting with antenna direction, I found in the attic best reception is with antenna pointed 10-15 deg. difference from the transmitter direction info found info sites like antennaweb.org.

I reported earlier in this thread that I am 70 miles from Omaha, and WOWT is "booming" in here with a signal of 93-100. I have a rotor on my outside antenna which allows me to "tweek" it. I cannot believe how sensitive it is to moving it just a minute amount. It makes a big difference. If any of you want to "fine tune" your system, add a rotor. The picture on Channel 6-1 "rocks"!!

Hello, My name is Shawn and I work at Zager Antenna in Lincoln. Thanks Warren for pointing me to this site.

I just wanted to let you all know what I have been able to find out. Channel 3 KMTV (45 dig) is looking to start broadcasting in Mid Feb and will be passing HD from CBS. I got this info about a week or two ago.
Channel 10 (25 dig) is hoping for around the start of Feb also and will be passing 1080i. It has been a while since I have talked to anyone at channel 10 so I will try to get an update. I also haven't talked to anyone at 15 or 42 for some time now to know how things are going there.

Well I just thought I would throw in my 2 cents.

I hope this will help. :D

Are you the short guy who sold the tall guy an MXU-59 and then exchanged a Dish LNB for a DirectTV LNB in the last two months? If you were, that was me!

Glad you found this place and welcome aboard.

Yes, I'm the short guy at Zager. :) :) :) :) :) I'm sorry that I don't remember exchanging the LNB. I guess my memory is slipping a little .

Sorry don't it posted twice.

Is the antenna working for you?

HDSTEVEN,

We have programmed our HD Encoder to map our HD signal to Channel 6-1 on all receivers and televisions. Even though we are broadcasting DTV on channel 22, we want our branding is still be associated with WOWT-6. We also thought it would be less confusing to the viewer as to which station they are watching.

Jay Nix
Chief Engineer
WOWT-Omaha

I wish KETV would map to 7.1. Channel 20 shows up in my guide away from Channel 7 so I can't just look and see whats on it. Besides, nobody at DirecTV has figured out that 20.1 should show the same guid info as Channel 7.

Doug

dehlers, Last I knew KETV wants and will be remapping to 7.1 however the sever (or equipment) that does that still hadn't come in yet. Hopefully that will be soon.

Also I did some calling today and got some updates. Channel 10 won't be until April and the same with channel 12. Channel 42 (and I think 15) is hoping for around the 20th. They said they will not be passing HD and don't know the power output they were going have.

Remember this dates are estimates. You know how the wheather can be in Nebraska.

Shawn

Doug,

Shawn is correct, when I receive my PSIP package, KETV will re-map to channel 7-1 for the same reasons as Jay Nix mentions.

My encoder cannot do it without the server, as the server holds all the program tables.

Thanks for the info on the channel mapping and station live dates. Too bad
Fox(43) and WB(38) won't be boadcasting any HD programming, I'm sure PBS(40) will have some HD. That would be good for Lincoln if KOLN(25) broadcasts some HD. Thanks to WOWT and KETV for broadcasting HD.

To Jay(WOWT) and Warren(KETV),

Is there any plans in the near future to add programming info(Titles, Dates, time) to your broadcasts(I believe as part of your PSIP data) to be used in the program guides of digital tuners?

To Warren(KETV),

Is there any way to change the big blue non transparent "Dolby Digital 5.1" logo that comes in the upper right corner of the screen to something
more like your KETV-DT logo(transparent)? Maybe just use the Dolby Digital symbol and make it transparent. The present logo you use for this is a little too much I think :).

On FOX and WB,

As I posted a few days ago, they are only coming up at 1kW. Not sure that will even cover all of Omaha? Almost no chance of reception in Lincoln.

Doug

I forgot to say the KOLN will be pass 1080i from CBS. PBS will also be doing 1080i with some other cool stuff that I didn't quite understand. Something for the educational side and using data streams. It sound really cool and I look forward to seeing what they will be doing.

I'm also not to happy about 15 & 42. I guess I also don't like channel 8 and they weren't giving me to much information. They couldn't even give a time table for any type of improvement. So I took it as that they will be up-converting their analog for quite some time. I guess I won't be watching channel 8.

Shawn

Agreed, channel 8 isn't even in my guide.

Doug

HDSteven,

I placed the order Friday for the server which will deliver PSIP information to my encoder. I hope to have PSIP running within the next 30 days or so. That will be the program guide you speak of. My encoder vendor wanted to certify the Dell server I will be using first, that was the delay. I say 30 days or so as the server will be shipped to me first, I will install some boards and load the operating system, then send it off to the encoder vendor, they will install the PSIP software on it and send it back to me. Long process...

I understand the FCC has received my application to increase power from 10Kw ERP to 18.9 Kw ERP. I hope to see the authorization for this toward the end of next week. When I receive it, and "throttle up" a bit, I will post a message here.

My Dolby logo is too big, you are killing me man, that is my pride and joy...Okay, I suppose it is a little on the large side. I will see if I can tone it down a bit next week.

:) Warren

Warren,

I think the DD5.1 logo is fine. Its only up a few seconds. Specially if its "your pride and joy!" <grin>

Doug

I like the logo. I would leave it as is. Viewers are lucky to be getting the DD 5.1 feed--it's great. Heck, HDNET was not even coming across in DD 5.1 until a week or so ago and KETV was doing DD 5.1 well before that! Keep up the great work Warren and thanks for everything you are doing!

Jeff

Originally posted by KETV




I understand the FCC has received my application to increase power from 10Kw ERP to 18.9 Kw ERP. I hope to see the authorization for this toward the end of next week. When I receive it, and "throttle up" a bit, I will post a message here.



:) Warren

That's good news! If I can help getting your power up let me know. [Super Bowl quickly approaching] As of now it's just shy of getting a lock on my receiver.

I echo the "Farwell Channel 8" sentiment.

Hey guys, this may be a stupid question, but I was wondering if the Superbowl will have digital audio stream? Obviously couldn't have 5.1 but wasn't sure about the other. Any insight? I know my digital channels from cable aren't the quality as the OTA reg digital channels....so I was wondering also if OTA audio would be better as well?

Correct me if I am wrong here
WOWT-DT is now at 30 Kw?? Is that correct?
KETV-DT will soon be increased to 18.9?

WOWT-DT is signal strength is good all the time. KETV-DT is hit and miss even in the evenings. I was just trying to get an idea if this signal increase is going to give me enough confidence to invite folks over for the super bowl. I also remember hearing something about differing heights currently in the transmitters. How big a difference will this make?

mills83,

Do you live outside the Omaha area? I will assume for the moment this is true. Taking into account you have never had a solid lock on KETV-DT, it would be my guess the little power increase would not do you much good, I could be wrong, but this is my feeling. My hope is for the people who have intermittent (once in a while) signal loss on some days, this will help fill in that gap.

The current signal on KETV-DT is a low power “City Grade” signal to cover Omaha only. This is the best I could do for 2002. My permanent high power antenna takes 11 months to manufacture, as it is a custom dual channel 7 & 20 antenna. This antenna will be finished up toward the end of next month and set in storage until the end of May. It will be then be shipped to my transmitter site to be installed in June of this year.

Since the only way to get KETV-DT on the air in 2002 was to purchase a temporary low power antenna, I did this, the low power antenna can only handle so much power, that is a max output of 18.9Kw ERP (Effective Radiated Power) This next power increase to that level is running the antenna at its max limit.

The height my temporary antenna is mounted at is roughly 520 feet, WOWT-DT’s antenna is mounted at roughly 1100 feet on their tower. Since I need to remove my existing channel 7 antenna in June of this year, and install the new dual channel 7 & 20 antenna, I placed the temporary DTV antenna at a lower level so KETV-DT could stay operational when I change out the analog channel 7 antenna in June. Otherwise I would need to lower the temporary DTV antenna, or go off the air with KETV-DT during that new antenna installation.

You may remember I was transmitting on my Aux transmitter for roughly 2 weeks this past summer while I re-placed my transmission line running up the main tower with new line. This new transmission line can handle the combined power of the channel 7 transmitter, and the power of the DTV channel 20 transmitter. I will feed the new antenna with this one transmission line.

I will again need to run on the Aux transmitter (for channel 7) while the above antenna is installed. I hope this takes no longer than 2 weeks max, but the weather can impact this time frame. Once the new antenna is up, I will be able to increase power on KETV-DT to over 300Kw ERP, and the dual channel antenna will be mounted on the top of my main tower where the current channel 7 antenna is now at roughly 1236 feet. At that point, you should have no problem receiving KETV-DT.

Sorry for the lengthy post, I hope this helps explain your frustration receiving KETV-DT as it is today.

Kickass post Warren! Very interesting and informative. Thanks!

Jeff

Can anyone post a quick summary of current HDTV availability for the Lincoln area (including potential Omaha broadcasts, i.e. WOWT).

Thanks so much - I just wanted to see if we could get a "sound off" of the current status :)

Thanks in advance.

I currently can get WOWT-DT through an attic mounted MXU-59 and Dish model 6000. Read the previous page for what KETV is up to. Hopefully after this week I'll be pulling them in too.

Any chance on receiving anything HD on an indoor antenna (Like a Silver Sensor or something preamped)?

Supposedly (according to antennaweb) ABC KLKN is already active, not true?

http://www.klkntv.com/Global/story.asp?S=920710&nav=2IfQCl5R

Any news on any of the following?

KYNE-DT (PBS)
KXVO-DT (WB)
KOLN-DT (CBS)
KPTM-DT (FOX)

Thanks guys for all your help - this stuff helps immensely!!

Thanks Warren,

Thanks for your informative answer. I am full of questions though and long answers just create more questions.

I would estimate that I am about 20 miles from your tower. I live between Gretna and Ashland in the sidehills leading down to the river. Just down the hill from the KPTM tower. Height, surrounding hills, and trees are my main limitation. Some nights I get KETV-DT strong enough to watch some nights not. So I am hoping the increase in power will help. If not just have to wait til June.

Anyone have any idea what WOWT-DT signal strength currently is? Do they have similar plans this spring/summer to ramp up? When others come on will they take the similar baby steps before ramping up full bore?

Too bad KMTV-3 is slow goings so we missed the playoff games. Did folks on Cox get them?

Thanks

dantz, This has been mentioned in the prior pages but here it goes again. Yes KLKN is broadcasting on there digital frequency. However they are only upconverting their analog signal. As far as I'm concerned it looks like crap. People have been getting WOWT and KETV in Lincoln some with attiac antennas and others with roof mounts. It really depends on where you live in Lincoln. Just remember that height will do nothing but help.

KYNE-DT (PBS) (40) should be up around April. 1080i
KXVO-DT (WB) (very soon) Low power not passing HDTV
KOLN-DT (CBS) (25) around April 1st. passing CBS 1080i
KPTM-DT (FOX) (very soon) Low power not passing HDTV
KMTV-DT (CBS Omaha) (45) Mid Feb passing HDTV

Remember these are projected dates so just keep checking back to see if anybody is receiveing yet.

Shawn

Some Info,

A couple of days ago I installed(attic) the following:

Channel Master 4228a 8bay UHF antenna
Channel Master 7775 UHF preamp
RG6 cable

Wow what an improvement! I am receiving KETV with no dropouts
and got rid of some ghosting, noise on analog channnels, better colors
too. I can definitely recommend this setup. It does take some vertical
room, and UHF only. I am using my RS rotor for now. My RS VHF/UHF is now used for VHF and secondary antenna.

Steven

Sorry about the repeats guys - but thanks for the info. It certainly helps when debating what kind of antenna to get at present. I can't wait for the days when we can all have rabbit ears and get 95-100% signals ;)

But for now, I'll need to plan my attack to receive those coveted HD signals!

Thanks again - this thread is the most valuable information I've seen to date for the Lincoln/Omaha area :)

Re: Channel 8 KLKN TV

I really hate to call people to the mat ;) but KLKN being the pioneer of digital TV is a farce. True they were the first to put a digital signal on the air. But they are doing a disservice to digital broadcasting.

People have invested in equipment to receive DTV, and I can't think of any digital receivers which can't decode HDTV. When choosing to broadcast SD, KLKN spent the money for sub-standard equipment just to claim a first. This will hurt their effort to get HD signals on air. Too bad a shortsighted decision will end up costing them in the long run. We are just months from having a full compliment of Network HD programming and KLKN will have missed the boat by not investing wisely in equipment.

What purpose does a digital SD signal serve? I get the same OTA picture digital or analog.

It makes me appreciate the efforts put forth by WOWT and KETV.

KETV & KMTV coming in good here, despite the snow storm.

For those that don't recall, I am in Millard with a Samsung 150 model receiver and a pair of RatShack double-bow-ties wired together. I usually get about 20% signal from KETV.

I was worried about performance with snow. I just watched about an hour of KETV with one very, very tiny image stutter.

I can't wait till you guys are at full power. DTV is great!

-- Robert

Warren,

It's getting close to Superbowl time. I am having several guests over for the "main event". Please, if you could, emphasize to your people who will be manning the station that evening that it's very important to remember to "flip to HD" when the time comes. :)

Two years ago, I was vexed by CBS when their operator forgot to flip the old switch during some of the AFC playoffs. Rather, they flipped the switch after ten minutes of the HD program, putting the Cox feed back into low-def.

I understand if the transmitter eats itself or somesuch... but let's not let down all your fans in Omaha by having a newbie operator botch the button pressing on this monumentous occassion! :) I really, really want to see the Superbowl in HD. This is going to be fantastic!

-- Robert

Hi Everyone,

I will be at the transmitter site Sunday evening during the Superbowl to watch over the analog and digital transmitter. The operator in MC is well versed in HD operations, but should the switch not make it back to HD, I can control the HD switcher from the transmitter site across the LAN back to the studio to switch it back. According to the information I have, only the game segment will be in HD, the pre-game and post game will be SD. Will be a fun viewing evening.

Cox Cable and KETV are very close to placing KETV in HD on their system. I am hopeful this will be before the Superbowl. It is a pleasure to work with the folks at Cox Cable.

I received my PSIP server this week, I am loading the operating system on it and will ship this off to my PSIP vendor next week to have the PSIP software installed and configured. Still looking at roughly 30 days to get this operational.

I understand the FCC has granted an STA for KETV this week. I do not have the information back to me as of yet, but I assume this is my authorization to increase power on the DTV side from 10Kw ERP to 18.9 Kw ERP. I should receive this information early next week.

Slightly Off topic - but this is the best resource I've found for local HDTV enthusiasts.

I noticed that Custom Electronics here in Lincoln does ISF calibrations. How much do those tend to run and how highly do you recommend doing it? This is my first HDTV and I want to do it right - I mainly watch DVDs and (soon) HDTV.

Thanks =)

I don't know much about ISF calibrators but hopefully can steer you to the information. Check out the forums in the Display Devices (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?daysprune=30&forumid=9&x=10&y=6) section. I know a search in the RPTV section on ISF will yield a wealth of information.

I would anticipate a cost for a full ISF to be in the $250-$500 range.

To Jay (WOWT) and Warren (KETV):

My father lives about 60-70 miles NNW of Omaha in PENDER. I was wondering if you thought he might be able to receive your digital channels? He wants to buy a HDTV and could put a large directional UHF antenna on the roof. He lives up on a large hill overlooking the landscape. Sioux City only has really LOW power KTIV (NBC) and KCAU (ABC) right now. So even though he is closer to them, I doubt he would receive any picture. Do you recommend an antenna mounted booster? Also, are your two stations now broadcasting at FULL POWER? If not, when do you forsee that happening? Thanks in advance.

Cox Cable and KETV are very close to placing KETV in HD on their system. I am hopeful this will be before the Superbowl. It is a pleasure to work with the folks at Cox Cable.


Slobbbbberr.... Things work THAT fast in the business? Wow! I've been anxiously awaiting the day when the "next" channel hit the 800's on Cox.

Eyedox,

I have had several viewers at the 70 mile range without any problems. Living on the hill and the willingness of placing the antenna on the roof will definitely help.

We are currenly running low-power at 38Kw. We placed a temporary heliax transmission line on our tower to accommodate the HDTV service. This spring/summer we plan on making the necessary modifications to our main transmission line. This will allow us to inject channel 6 and 22 into a single line. This was the plan when the line was purchased in 1996. Unfortunately, when we started the procedure, we found several problems with the line. To provide the service to the viewers, we made the decision to hang the heliax until we could repair the main line. Hopefully this will occur in April or June.

As to when we plan on going full-power, I do not know. I am extremely suprised at the distance our signal is being received. I do not know of any viewers who currently cannot receive us. I am waiting to see how two full power stations (KMTV and KETV) will impact the capabilities and sensitivity of the DTV receivers.

Jay Nix
Chief Engineer
WOWT

Eyedox,

At present I do not believe you will receive KETV-DT for two reasons. First my ERP power level is below that of WOWT-DT. That being 38Kw vs my 18.9Kw ERP. (Just increased this morning to this level)

Second, my DTV antenna is roughly 550' lower than WOWT-DT.

KETV-DT in June of this year will increase antenna elevation (to the top of the tower) and increase power to 1/2 our licensed DTV power. That being roughly 350Kw ERP. You would have more of a chance to receive us at that time.

As far as full power goes (700Kw ERP), this is scheduled for 1st quarter of 2004 at present. I will add the second IOT tube to my transmitter configuration at that time which will take my power level to full power.

Warren(KETV),

I noticed that you do not broadcast on your digital channel during the day. Do you plan on broadcasting 24/7 soon? Also, Superbowl sunday ABC pregame show starts at 1:00pm(4 hrs of pregame stuff wow :) ), will you be broadcasting for this as I read rumors that even alot of this pregame material will be High Def?

Thanks

Steven

I am sharing this info with the thought that maybe someone like myself could find it useful.

I am able to pull in KMTV off COX CABLE on channel 103.01. This did not require any converter boxes..etc. I set the cable system type as HRC and let it search. Of course a television set with HD built in is required. KETV will be able to be received in the same way.....real soon I hope.

Also there is a somewhat useful website called www.antennaweb.org that will help you locate the channels/direction for OTA HD broadcasts in your area. I am personally trying to avoid the whole antenna thing for a variety of reasons (lazy being at the top).

Hope this info can help someone.

Mits widescreen owner.

Hi Steven,

We have started this week to bring up the DTV transmitter at 1pm Monday - Friday, run it until midnight, and usually on the weekends at 12 noon - midnight.

This Saturday & Sunday we will run from 7am - 12 midnight. You can check the DTV transmitter operation time, and which shows are in HD at our website www.theomahachannel.com , from the home page, click on HDTV: KETV-DT Program Guide, it is just under "Coming up on KETV 7". I just checked this myself and it appears the webstaff has not updated that page as of yet for this week.

The information I have from ABC on the SuperBowl shows only the game segment will be in HD, the pre-game and post-game will be in SD. I will double check toward the end of the week, but the intranet site shows the above.

As far as 24 hour operation goes, this will need to be sometime after June when the new antenna is installed. I am still installing some necessary equipment at the transmitter site to combine the analog transmitter RF, and the digital transmitter RF together, plus installing some software upgrades to my encoder and closed caption bridge. I have two DTV transmitter modifications to install from Harris as well. It is helping out being able to take the transmitter off the air for a while to perform those mods.

Plus I am waiting to see what KMTV does with their DTV transmitter operation time once they go on the air. Since both KETV and KMTV will be running IOT tube transmitters, these are very expensive to run power wise. I would venture to say I consume the same amount of power running my DTV transmitter in 8 hours, as WOWT-DT consumes in 24 hours as theirs is solid state. I would need to compare power bills with Jay but just a guess on my part.

Hi sbswrmd,

Cox may need to move KMTV from 103.01 to a new area. I think that new area might be 107.01, 108.01, & 109.01. I think KETV will be in the 109.01 slot but I am not sure at the moment.

Reason for the change is Cox will deploy 256 QAM when KETV is added. This will require them to move KMTV to the new 256 QAM area as currently they sit in a 64 QAM area.

I have a question for you, can your set pickup the PSIP data and give you a program guide on KMTV at 103.01? I don't know if KMTV is sending PSIP on Cox, but was curious if there is an area for this.

Is that option on your Mits "ClearQAM"?

Warren

Warren,

I did not see the PSIP (programming info). As far as option (i.e. CLEARQAM) unless that is part of the SERVICE menu stuff, I am not familiar with it either.

You guys are doing a great job with HD. Keep up the good work.

Originally posted by sbswrmd
I am able to pull in KMTV off COX CABLE on channel 103.01. This did not require any converter boxes..etc. I set the cable system type as HRC and let it search. Of course a television set with HD built in is required.
Mits widescreen owner.
I assume then that COX is sending their HD content in the new digital cable standard QAM64/256 which our Mits sets can automatically receive and decode. I hope that MEDIACOM here in Des Moines does the same when they add HD (rumored to start this summer).

So what does this mean to those of us running the GI HDD-200's ? I'm confused.

Originally posted by dantz
Slightly Off topic - but this is the best resource I've found for local HDTV enthusiasts.

I noticed that Custom Electronics here in Lincoln does ISF calibrations. How much do those tend to run and how highly do you recommend doing it? This is my first HDTV and I want to do it right - I mainly watch DVDs and (soon) HDTV.

Thanks =)

I had Custom Electronics in Omaha come and ISF calibrate my TV a little over two years ago. It was a debacle! Their ISF tech didn't know how my TV worked and didn't understand the service manual whatsoever. We did get the set calibrated to 6500K, but it was a laborous event and I never did get the damn thing converged properly. I ended up converging it myself.

I don't think their techs converge much of anything other than what they sell (Pioneer Elites).

-- Robert

dimer0,

The HDD-200 users will see KMTV on 805 as you do now, and I believe KETV on 809. Really no change for you.

The HDD-200 will pickup either 64 or 256 QAM. Should be transparent to you.

The new Mits line has a QAM decoder built into the HDTV set.

Warren

Originally posted by sbswrmd
I am sharing this info with the thought that maybe someone like myself could find it useful.

I am able to pull in KMTV off COX CABLE on channel 103.01. This did not require any converter boxes..etc. I set the cable system type as HRC and let it search. Of course a television set with HD built in is required. KETV will be able to be received in the same way.....real soon I hope.

Also there is a somewhat useful website called www.antennaweb.org that will help you locate the channels/direction for OTA HD broadcasts in your area. I am personally trying to avoid the whole antenna thing for a variety of reasons (lazy being at the top).

Hope this info can help someone.

Mits widescreen owner.

This thread is a wealth of information. Warren and Jay do an excellent job. What model Mits do you have? I have a 55859 and currently tune WOWT and KETV over the air (can't wait for the Super Bowl). The Mits web site says my model has the following:

"QAM digital cable TV tuner. For receiving unscrambled HDTV and SDTV cable programming without a cable box."

It would be great if I could receive Cox's HD package without another receiver. I currently have DirecTv, but would be willing to switch when cox starts passing more HD, which I assume is only a matter of time. How much HD is available from Cox, currently? Is the quality the same as OTA?

I can't speak to the quality in comparison to OTA, but I'm very happy with the quality as compared to standard cable/digital cable.

Currently Cox has KETV, HBO-HD, and SHO-HD. I dont' watch much HBO and Showtime, but pretty much am glued to CBS every night during primetime.

The AFL championship was outstanding, 'cept for the last half of the 1st quarter -someone flipped a switch somewhere and it all went standard-definition. The Cox techs knew immediately (methinks they were watching the HD feed) - and it was fixed pretty quickly.

dimer0,

Are you able to gain access to KETV without having to pay for the extra digital tier. If I could get the locals in HD as part of basic service I'd consider it.

John

I have a 4.45/month "Digital Service" on my bill - I think this is just the "basic" portion of the digital service (music channels, access to pay-per-view, etc). I don't have any "tier", per se, to enable KETV. I've cancelled all my tiers, but then added plain ole Showtime and HBO to get access to the HD versions of each. Once more local channels come online, I'll probably dump HBO and Showtime..

I'd pay extra for HD Discovery channel, tho.

And, you'd HAVE to believe that HD-Spice is just around the corner. I mean, comon, that's the #1 industry for making money and promoting standards.. If HD-Porn hit the airs, EVERYONE would have a set. ;-)

Warren,

If my math is correct you've just about doubled your power output, an increase 2.76db ERP.

Thanks for your efforts, there will be a Superbowl party in The Pit come Sunday. Keep your finger on that switch, I'd like to see the HD commercials in HD. :)

Regards,

John

If porn can make money, I'd think you'd be all over that ;)

dimer0, I'm SOL for getting KETV HD for the Super Bowl. I'm too lazy to relocate my antenna on the roof, so are you up to hosting the SB XXXVII HD bash? :) I'm sure a bunch of other guys with slow cars would show too.

dimer0, let me get this straight. Are you getting KETV on Cox HDTV or is it just KMTV that you're getting? I thought KETV (the Superbowl channel) is not yet available on Cox HDTV.

I'm sorry - I had a couple beers in me last night. KMTV (CBS) is what I've been getting forever. The talk is that KETV might be this week. But it's not here yet.

John,

Your math is correct on the power increase, it was just under double the original power level.

Curious if this helped out any? I am now running the max that antenna will handle.

Cox Cable is currently placing KETV on their system in HD. This should be finished up this afternoon.

For the HDD-200 users we will be on channel 809

For the Mits users we will be on 108.01

YEEEEAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thanks, Warren! I'll post feedback tonight!!!!!

Originally posted by gpflepsen
If porn can make money, I'd think you'd be all over that ;)

dimer0, I'm SOL for getting KETV HD for the Super Bowl. I'm too lazy to relocate my antenna on the roof, so are you up to hosting the SB XXXVII HD bash? :) I'm sure a bunch of other guys with slow cars would show too.

Whoa - what's up flep! I might just have to host it .. You'd actually drive to Omaha??? :-)

I'c consider going to Omaha but I'm already hosting a SB party, just not in HD :(

Hi all great board here. I am glad to see so many in the Omaha area are interested in HDTV.

Anyway, just wondering what everyones experience has been with Cox. Thus far everytime I have checked I get basically a non-answer. It feels like I know more about there service offerings than they do.

I called them today and was told that they will never offer HDTV boxes and that they all must be purchased through NFM, does this seem accurate? I am sure never is too strong of a word, but I was surprised that there are no immediate plans to offer STB for rent.

What boxes are available in the area and what is the preffered box to use with Cox? GI/Motorola has what looks to be a nice box with PVR and HD in one unit, I was kind of hoping Cox would offer something like this since they use Motorola gear.

Any info would be great. Thanks!

That is "SUPER" news about COX cable on 108.01. Can't wait to try it this p.m. Alledgedly the addition of KETV would bring about a move of KMTV to another channel (other than 103.01) as well. If someone finds it before I do please feel free to share your findings.

TRENTD,
Is response to your message, I have a 55859 as well. Since I do not have an antenna setup, I cannot comment on a comparison between OTA and COX. You may also find the Mits info on http://www.***************.com helpful. There is a plethora of info to fine tune your viewing experience on your Mits.

FYI. These stations are up and running on Cox Cable. (Weds. 17:30)

KMTV on 107.01.
KETV on 108.01.

Mucho thanks for the efforts to get these stations up and running.

(After the shreaks of joy, my wife now officially thinks I'm insane.)

Man - I wish Lincoln's cable monopoly would be so receptive to HDTV and consumer demand.

My only hope is that Cox expands service 50 miles west ;)

On the flip side - for those of you who are now receiving this glorious gift from Cox Cable, be sure and call/email whatever so that they know it's appreciated and worth it.

KETV and the engineers on this thread already know how much we love them ;)

Warren,

Your power increase does appear to have helped with stability/dropouts. For whatever reason (probably weather) both WOWT and KETV had been very intermittent lately, especially during the day. KETV repection last night appeared solid during a brief viewing session. I'll have to do more evaluation and report back.

Thannks again, John

On the flip side - for those of you who are now receiving this glorious gift from Cox Cable, be sure and call/email whatever so that they know it's appreciated and worth it.

Already called - and emailed! :)

The picture looks great! Can't wait till tomorrow to see a wider variety of programming.. CSI will get it's normal hour viewing slot, tho.

Originally posted by KETV
Cox Cable is currently placing KETV on their system in HD. This should be finished up this afternoon.

For the HDD-200 users we will be on channel 809

For the Mits users we will be on 108.01

Are there any set-top boxes that can receive and decode HDTV signals over cable (QAM). Not all of us are lucky enough to have a Mits. :(

Let me clarify--I mean other than the current HDTV add-on decoder available at NFM.

Lyman,

I'm not sure about another STB besides the digital cable box + sidecar combination, but you might want to check out the HDD-201 (from Canada) instead of the HDD-200 that the mart sells. These are exactly the same boxes except the HDD-201 has a StarChoice logo on the front. Instead of paying the Mart $450 for the HDD-200, I paid about $290US for HDD-201. Check out www.kusat.com, that's the Canadian place that I purchased the HDD-201 from.

The upside to using the digital cable box + sidecar instead of some other STB is that you'll also be able to receive HBO and/or Showtime in HD if you subscribe to them. I'm sure that the pay channel feeds would not be accessable any other way at the moment. I've seen several movies on HBO-HD, and it looks awesome!

Hope this helps...

Jeff

Originally posted by suretytek
Lyman,

I'm not sure about another STB besides the digital cable box + sidecar combination, but you might want to check out the HDD-201 (from Canada) instead of the HDD-200 that the mart sells. These are exactly the same boxes except the HDD-201 has a StarChoice logo on the front. Instead of paying the Mart $450 for the HDD-200, I paid about $290US for HDD-201. Check out www.kusat.com, that's the Canadian place that I purchased the HDD-201 from.

The upside to using the digital cable box + sidecar instead of some other STB is that you'll also be able to receive HBO and/or Showtime in HD if you subscribe to them. I'm sure that the pay channel feeds would not be accessable any other way at the moment. I've seen several movies on HBO-HD, and it looks awesome!

Hope this helps...

Jeff

Jeff,

That's a good point about HBO-HD and SHO-HD! Thanks for the information about the HDD-201.

On the QAM STB issue.

Looking at www.motorola.com (follow the link to Cable Operators) I found an integrated STB the DCT-5100. It appears this box is an all in one box which you will not need the sidecar. Appears it is also a cable modem. I do not think this box is out as of yet.

Maybe in the future Cox will offer this as a rental box, I really do not know. But currently you have to purchase the sidecar.

I am no authority on cable, just thought I would toss this in.

Warren

Originally posted by KETV
On the QAM STB issue.

Looking at www.motorola.com (follow the link to Cable Operators) I found an integrated STB the DCT-5100. It appears this box is an all in one box which you will not need the sidecar. Appears it is also a cable modem. I do not think this box is out as of yet.

Maybe in the future Cox will offer this as a rental box, I really do not know. But currently you have to purchase the sidecar.

I am no authority on cable, just thought I would toss this in.

Warren

Warren,

Thanks for the link! That is more in line with what I was looking for. The problem will be getting any information from Cox.... :(

Warren at KETV,

Johncookjr's post on signal strength improvement seems to jive with what I have been observing in Lincoln as well. The last three nights I have checked signal strength. Before the power turn up a good night had the bar at 50%. Many nights more like 25-35%. The last three nights have run in the 40% plus range. In each case WOWT didn't seem significantly stronger than normal, such that I believe most of the improvement to be due to your power increase as opposed to lucky atmospherics.

I am getting more confident that my SB party will have a solid picture. Thanks for your hard work.

Doug

Doug, John,

Thanks for the feedback on the signal. It is good to hear it made a little difference toward the good side.

According to Jim Show

Hi Everyone,

ABC just sent a note that tonights show will not be in HD. Don't know what the problem is, maybe this show was an early one that was not in HD.

Just FYI...

Warren

Originally posted by sbswrmd
That is "SUPER" news about COX cable on 108.01. Can't wait to try it this p.m. Alledgedly the addition of KETV would bring about a move of KMTV to another channel (other than 103.01) as well. If someone finds it before I do please feel free to share your findings.

TRENTD,
Is response to your message, I have a 55859 as well. Since I do not have an antenna setup, I cannot comment on a comparison between OTA and COX. You may also find the Mits info on http://www.***************.com helpful. There is a plethora of info to fine tune your viewing experience on your Mits.

I also have the 55859. I am testing both now.. So far OTA seems to have better sound quality at times. Just my opinion though.. I also have the HDD-200.. mostly use it for the HBO/Showtime.

Originally posted by KETV
According to Jim Show

Hi Everyone,

ABC just sent a note that tonights show will not be in HD. Don't know what the problem is, maybe this show was an early one that was not in HD.

Just FYI...

Warren

Noticed that, Thanks for the info. It's very hard to watch regular programming after viewing HD!!

Just ran a scan on the Antenna again and picked up 38(WB) & 43(FOX)
Not sure if they will be broadcasting any HD shows yet but the antennas are active.

ajungjo,

Good news!

How strong of signal you getting? You are probably the closest to the towers. They won't be broadcasting any HD either. They are purely upconvert for now. Only WB has a few HD shows anyway.

Doug

I don't have a signal meter, I am using the Mits (55859) built in with the antenna in the attic, but it is comming in very clear. I am only about 2 miles from the towers though.

Just talked to a gentleman at 15 and 42. It doesn't sound like us in Lincoln will be getting their digital 38,43. He said that they are up and running 24 hours a day so you can give it a shoot. The output I guess looks like a cardio graph. Flat then peak,null then flat. Of course Omaha is in the peak and Lincoln or wherever might be in the null.

Zager antenna is located at 810 N. 48th in Lincoln are we are not getting any signal.

If I get an email from the guy at KPTM I will be forwarding this forum to him. Maybe he will come and post and explain things better.

Shawn

P.S. They are only 300 ft on the tower.

Hello Everyone,

I just received a message from ABC stating the post game segment will also be in HD. Originally ABC said only the game segment would be HD.

So at present, the pregame is SD, game is HD, and postgame is HD. Audio is said to be DD 5.1.

Thanks Warren for the info on the Superbowl. I am receiving a solid signal from KETV, no dropouts, signal strength the same as before power increase but no dropouts or breakup now Thank You. :)

I am receiving a digital signal from WB(38) but too weak, no picture/sound just a green digital indicator lights up. :( No signal from FOX. I cannot believe they would setup a digital transmission and not cover Lincoln too.
I was looking forward to some more digital stations by now, really waiting for the PBS startup(I like the Nature documentary and Music shows.

Steven

HDSteven - Where abouts in lincoln are you located (south east, north east,etc...) that you are receiving KETV with a strong signal? What kind of antenna do you have?

Do you also receive WOWT?

I've heard good things about the Silver Sensor antenna - do you think I would receive WOWT and KETV in Lincoln (north central - 27th and Superior on top of the hill) with a Silver Sensor?

Thanks in advance

Pic looks good on KETV, however the sound coming in over COX cable on 108.01 is toast. (i.e. crackly, popping, ..etc )

Anyone else notice the same anomaly on Fri night?

Yes, same thing is happening over the air on 20-1.

Yup,

15 & 42 are a lost cause in Lincoln for now. Not even a sniff.

Doug

Doug - could you tell me a little bit about your setup. I'm wanting to get OTA, but want to make sure Lincoln's setup isn't terribly complicated at this point :)

dantz,

I have a full band antenna mounted on my chimney with a pre-amp mounted at the antenna. To reliably get Omaha DTV broadcasts you need to be outside with the antenna and the higher the better. The pre-amp is also a requirement. Zager is a great place to go for this stuff, they are knowledgable and helpful. Radio Shack sells a UHF only Yagi that I put up to get a better shot at 18 (FOX & UPN) here in Lincoln. I put a pre-amp on it as well. For grins I tried it out on the digital stuff from Omaha (different direction) and they came in great. The Yagi on my dual band is the same size as the Radio Shack Yagi. If the VHF stuff isn't important right now, this might be a good way to go. Figure $25 for the RS yagi and $40-$100 for the pre-amp depending on what you get.

Doug

Hello,

Was the bad audio during Drew Carey from 8:30pm - 9pm in HD?

If it cleared up after that show, I bet it I know what it was, but if it is still bad, I currently do not hear the problem.

Warren

I will assume by the post times on the audio problem it was during Drew Carey.

I called ABC traffic and they did not report any audio problems on the HD side during this show, so I will assume the problem was on my end.

If you noticed the brief HD portion during Nightline, that was ABC's HD test loop. We switched to this to quickly test the HD gear. The audio was OK during that brief period.

We did reset our HD equipment just in case it did have a problem.

Thanks for the posts with the information on how you were monitoring, I could tell by the one OTA report, and the one Cox Cable report the problem had to be at the studio and not the transmitter site.

Warren

KETV: Do you have your nightly/weekly program listing available in a more, emm, raw format than what's currently on your web site?

(RSS/XML feed, for example)

dimer0,

Currently IBS hosts our website for us, is there something in particular you are looking for? I can always ask the web staff, but looking around at the other Hearst - Argyle stations, their DTV webpage is the same. It would be something they would need to add.

Warren

Warren,

Yes it was during Drew Carey. I did notice the DD 5.1 and KETV-DT logos as well. Assumed it had something to do with DD 5.1.

Originally posted by dantz
HDSteven - Where abouts in lincoln are you located (south east, north east,etc...) that you are receiving KETV with a strong signal? What kind of antenna do you have?

Do you also receive WOWT?

I've heard good things about the Silver Sensor antenna - do you think I would receive WOWT and KETV in Lincoln (north central - 27th and Superior on top of the hill) with a Silver Sensor?

Thanks in advance


I live in NE Lincoln, see previous posts for equipment.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=1749256#post1749256

I receive KETV, WOWT, KLKN digital channnels.

I don't think you will receive KETV, WOWT with silver sensor. You might receive KLKN. I recommend a Channel Master 4228 antenna / UHF preamp, RG6 cable, or RadioShack VHF/UHF antenna/preamp.

Okay... so am I to understand that KPTM and KXVO are now broadcasting DTV?

Cripes.

When did that start? Because I am not getting them at ALL in Millard. I don't even see them showing up on the program guide with even a channel beacon.

Are they broadcasting low power? Far lower than even KETV? Or am I just f'ed? This sucks.

-- Robert

I am between Lincoln and Eagle and am currently receiving KXVO-DT at about 54% , and KPTM is 0%. Don't really understand that. Thought there towers were in the same location??? Seems like KXVO is channel mapping to 15-1 on my Mits receiver. So far no drop outs or pixelization. Fingers crossed.

C Blake

Guys read the post at the top of the page. That talks about KPTM and KXVO. They are really only pushing to Omaha. On the back side of the toweres is going to be hit and miss. I don't understand what type of broadcast antenna they ae using but it is not a 360 degree output like most. Maybe Warren or Jay could shed some light about type of antenna they are using.

Shawn

Shawn

I sent you a pm. KXVO is kind of weird. My internal Mits receiver isn't picking it up , but my DIRECTV STB is at about 54% and like I said is channel mapping it to 15-1. Maybe the internal receiver needs a stronger signal?? No KPTM signal at all.

Hi guys,

I have the Mits 55859 w/ built in hdtv. I live just iinside the south end of gretna. I receive both stations but KPTM (43) is pretty choppy, must be running on low power, KXVO comes in strong though. Funny cause I think they are on the Same tower?

I talked to an engineer at KPTM. He was suppose to send me an email. I haven't received it yet. I wanted to give him this forum address so that he could help everyone out. If I haven't heard from him by Monday night I will call him again on Tuesday. Keep posting your results and your general location so I can get a feel on what to tell him. Street intersection would be great I understand not posting exact addresses.

Shawn,

Looking at the FCC website, the data for KPTM / KXVO is as follows:

KPTM-DT
DTV 43
ERP 16.5Kw (Effective Radiated Power)
HAAT 116m (380 feet) (Height Above Average Terrain) Antenna
Antenna type appears to be Andrew.
Directional antenna with the main lobe at 40 degrees.

KXVO-DT
DTV 38
ERP 16.3Kw
HAAT 116m
Antenna type appears to be Dielectric.
Directional antenna with the main lobe at 40 degrees.

Both antenna's would be on the same tower per the Lat & Long, question you need to find out is, are they on the same leg of the tower. If not, that might explain why one comes in better than the other due to the main lobe might be rotated.

Warren

Gents,

I can't pick up anything more than a low carrier on KXVO and KPTM here in Papillion. I'm running up to the Shack to pick up a 2160 UHF Yagi later today, I'll post the results.

My current situation is a bit strange, KETV comes in fine most of the time and WOWT is a bit hit and miss, during the day mostly miss. Hopefully the Yagi wil clear up the WOWT problem as well as pull in 38 and 43. Undoubtedly a rotor will have to be used until they're broadcasting at full power next year.

Regards, John

John

I am halfway between Omaha and Lincoln around the eagle area and my Dish 6000 doesn't even show a signal on Kxvo and Kptm. Currently getting Ketv around 60% and Wowt around 75%. Doesn't make much sense to me that a company would go to the trouble of getting a digital signal up on the air and not make it available to the most people possible. Does anyone know if there are any future plans from them to raise there tower or up there wattage any? Thanks...........

PS Thanks Warren on the power increase, it sure has helped my signal. It use to jump around between 40% and 50% on a good day. Now its a steady signal around 60% with very few dropouts. Thanks!!!!!!!!

Question for KETV/WOWT... but first:

Well, no KXVO or KPTM for me until they go full power, I guess. I moved my antenna around for about half an hour and never received so much as a beacon in the program guide. Guess the signal can't penetrate the apartment wall. And yeah, I know my double bow tie is directional... so I moved it around. No luck.

Now the question, which may have been answered earlier...

What power will the broadcasts be when they are full? How many kilowatts are we talking?

KETV's boost to 18.9kW seemed to give me only 5% more juice in my signal strength meter. Didn't seem to affect me. I am still only getting 15-20% but the picture is perfect.

Anyone know what KPTM/KXVO will be pumping out when they are full throttle?

-- Robert

Is it me, or does the SuperBowl look soft, almost 480p upconvert soft?

John

John,

I'm at the transmitter site watching a 20" Ikegami monitor so it is tough to tell for me. :( But it looks pretty good here as compared to other things I have watched on that small monitor.

Curious to what everyone else thinks? Be honest, I can take it. :)

Warren

Robert,

KETV-DT current 18.9 Kw ERP, antenna HAAT 179 meters.
Will go to roughly 350 Kw ERP in June 2003, antenna will be at the top of the tower.
KETV-DT full power is 700 Kw ERP, target 1st Qtr 2004.

In KETV-DT’s case, my full power DTV was backed down from 1000 Kw ERP to 700 Kw ERP due to causing interference (predicted interference) to KSMN analog channel 20.

Current FCC rule is stations are to be at full power by 12/31/2004, otherwise they loose the 2% protection, in my case that was causing more than 2% interference to KSMN, so I was backed down.

From the FCC website:
WOWT-DT current 38.7 Kw ERP. antenna HAAT 392 meters.
WOWT-DT full power 982 Kw ERP.

KMTV-DT
No STA on file (Special Temporary Authority) the STA grants you authority to run at reduced power.
Antenna HAAT 425.5 meters.
Full power 1000 Kw ERP.

KPTM-DT current 16.5 Kw ERP, antenna HAAT 116 meters.
KPTM-DT full power 360 Kw ERP, antenna HAAT 574 meters.

KXVO-DT current 16.8 Kw ERP (I found another STA for them), antenna HAAT 116 meters.
KXVO-DT full power 500 Kw ERP, antenna HAAT 577 meters.

Hope this is helpful.
Warren

Warren,

I posted the above comments early in the game, since then I've seen other camera angles which look quite good. The sideline camera's look very detailed.

John

Warren, Thanks for the comments. I will try to find out about which legs they are on.

DevoX, when I talked to KPTM they said something about possibly having to put up a new tower for the digital. He made it sound like they would be pushing the 2004 dead line if that was the case. I will try to find more information out.

I set up a 10' screen at my chruch to watch the game on. All I can say is WWWWOOOOOWWWWW!!!! Everybody was very impressed by the picture. Yes it was in HD.

I found out one of the guys will be gone all week. It doesn't sound like I will be in the office much so I don't know when I will be able to call to update the information.

Shawn

After having watched the full game, I have to agree with John. Some of the time, the footage was washed out (full stadium shots), other times, it was extremely crisp and HDish (sideline shots, in game shots). There were a few instances, also, that the audio didn't sync exactly right, but it was at the end of the broadcast and was short lived (noticable during Madden/Michael's commentary where they were shown). Still a sight to behold, truly impressive. I have to admit, though, the footage that me and my friends were oohing and aahing after was the ESPNHD stuff. That promo was incredible!

I have to thank KETV (Warren) for making this possible, great job guys. It was a blast and I can't wait till next year.

Only problem I saw was the very end audio sync problem that was mentioned. As far as some of the stadium shots being washed out, I don't know if you would have noticed it right away if you weren't watching it on a widescreen tv but alot of the lead in (full stadium shots) were in SD, along with some of the replays and other things. Watching on my Mits widescreen and dish 6000 it was easy to see when it went back and forth because the picture went back to black sidebars when it went into SD. Just a thought. I would guess most watched on widescreen tv's, but I sure didn't see any problem with the crispness of the picture when it was in HD.

PS. Thanks for all your hard work to make this possible for us Warren. Look forward to the NBA Finals now!

All and all the broadcast was quite good. It was interesting to see the switches between standard and high-def. The resolution difference was striking!

The broadcast was quite good with very few breakups here in Lincoln. My party gests were very pleased.

Thanks KETV for my first HD pro game!!!!

Doug

I thought the game looked awesome , even with my Mits upconverting to 1080i it still looked great. Very crisp , not to many motion artifacts. To bad it wasn't a better game though. hahaha

Glad you all enjoyed it. There are so many of us in the Des Moines market that are so incredably disappointed in WOI-TV (ABC) for not making the SuperBowl deadline as previously scheduled. They've had their equipment for months and have had plenty of time to get it up on the tower. I guess unlike some markets and stations, WOI doesn't consider their HD viewers an important priority.

Jay put me on to this forum this morning. Nice to see how many of you are out there pulling us in over the air.
Anyone have experience with either the 57" SONY 16x9 rptv or the 61" SONY 4x3 HDTV ready sets? Any recommendations for rptv sets in the $2500 range, with or without demods on board?
I'm looking for excellent HDTV performance and good performance upconverting everything else. Some of the sets I've seen have had terrific HDTV pictures but everything else was just awful.

Mike Plews
Chief Photographer
WOWT TV

Mike,

Welcome to the forum. Unfortunately, I cannot comment on the SONY sets. However there are 1000's of posts in the SONY forum on http://www.***************.com that I'm sure will help.

Although you didn't mention Mitsubishi, you may also want to take notice of the posts in the Mitsubishi forum. I am a Mits owner and am very happy with my choice.

One question: Do you have a time frame for when Cox cable will begin rebroadcasting WOWT in HD? I am in the Omaha area, however at this time I choose not to pursue the OTA method.

Thanks!

Warren,

Superbowl looked great coming through Cox cable. Hope I never see another SD game.

Thank you.

Guys, I got this email from KMTV and thought I would share. it is from Scot of KM3 Director of Broadcast Operations


"Plans are to hit the air by the end of February. I will have a Comark transmitter and full power antenna mounted at 1,237'. We will be capable of broadcasting 800kw ERP. After initial testing we will operate at 250kw ERP for an interim time. Should be more than enough to see us in Lincoln.

KMTV will be the midwest's first full power HDTV facility. Others may say the are first on the air, however, they are either using a low power transmitter, or a low power antenna, both which limit them to a low power signal for the next year or better.

We have been sending HDTV to the Omaha metro via Cox Cable for three years.

We will broadcast 24 hours 7 days a week. CBS HDTV will be passed through, they send quite a bit in 1080i. I am working on studio gear that will allow me to pass Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound.

Local programming will be upconverted in a 4/3 ratio. We will probably not be doing any local HDTV until 2004."

It sounds good to me.

Did anybody watch the game on channel 8 digital here in Lincoln? Just curious on how it looked.

Shawn

Warren, your information was very helpful! Thanks for the complete rundown. I guess there might be hope for the low-power Fox/WB cannels. 350+kW will certainly slice through this apartment better than the 13kW they are doing now (I hope!).

I can get KETV at 18.9kW then it'll be awesome at 700 next year.

Anyway, I watched the Super Bowl here and I didn't notice any of the softness that others are talking about. It was strinkingly better than even the best DVD's I've seen. Even though it was not 1080i, it was clearly high-def and extremely pleasing to watch. My guests, however, did not comment on it once and instead were more interested in my vacuum tube amplifier. :)

Didn't have any reception problems other than a strange 3-4 second glitch in the last 15 seconds of the 4th which caused us to miss the final, embarassing interception by the Bucs. :) Them's the breaks, though. Instant replays are your friend.

-- Robert

I watched channel 8, 31-01. It looked good for what it was, just wish it was HD.

I hope KMTV keeps on schedule! Thanks for the info.

Just wondering how many people here have sets that are native 720p. My Mits upconverts to 1080i and it still looked great, but I wondered how the people with 720p saw it? Some say 720p is better for sporting events and fast motion video, less moving artifacts and the like in 1080i. Just wondering. THANKS

Everyone,

I miss understood ABC on tonight’s show of Vertias. It will be SD tonight and not in HD as our webpage shows.

My mistake...

Thanks for the response on the SuperBowl!!!

Mr. Plews, welcome, always a pleasure!!!

Ok, I had the superbowl on native 720p on a sony projector, 92" screen using a dvi-d digital video cable from my samsung sir-ts160 and a cheapo uhf only rs antenna with a 69% signal. All digital HDTV signal! I looked awesome! I can't wait for espn HD. I seen the blip on the main page that CBS is going to do regular season games in HD. We are going to have alot of HD football next year I bet.

Anyway, I was having auido drop out problems, every 15 seconds for about a 1/4 second up until sunday afternoon. I even bought new antenna, hooked direct to the reciever and a small tv and set it all up in the backyard with same results. Samsung even replaced the reciever. Sunday afternoon, zap, audio problems went away.

Warren, did you make any changes then?

Weird. I love HDTV though. Take it easy,

Daryl

Daryl,

I have not made any changes since the power increase last Monday.

Might be weather related.

Gotta Love That HD Football. :)

Great reception of the Superbowl from KETV. I had two setups running side by side:
KETV/HD - Toshiba TW40x81 - 5.1 DD
KLKN/SD - Sony 27"

I thought the HD shots were stunning. Alot during the game with two setups you would get different views on the action at the same time. This is really neat, nice to have the two different broadcasts formats of same programs in this area.

What happened to the Veritas show tonight, I thought this was to be HD?
Other locations are not receiving HD either.

Steven

Warren,

Game looked great. Thanks for all the effort you put into everything!

I was monitoring the signal strength of KETV yesterday and right at kickoff my signal strength suddenly jumped from 58 to 64.

Warren-- anything to that or is it just coincidence?

Thanks
Jeff

KETV -

I also wanted to thank you, not for HDTV (since I am not fortunate enough yet to have an OTA receiver) but for the strong cable quality of the channel through Time Warner.

Generally Time Warner's signals and service isn't top notch, and certainly with the other network channels (CBS Omaha, Lincoln / ABC Lincoln / NBC Omaha) the quality looks like I'm watching 20s reel film over the SD Cable (fortunately, the other cable channels are better), but watching channel 7 is like a dream. It's the highest standard definition I've seen on certain broadcasts - especially last night during the state of the union (which was a prime example to test since everyone was carrying it).

I just wanted to thank your station for having such a high integrity for sending out the best possible signal, HD or SD. You guys are what broadcasting is all about (as is very evident from your time spent in here).


Thanks =)

Dantz,

You made my day!!!

Thank-You very much for the kind words about KETV, we try to give it our best effort everyday. Sometimes you come out on top, and sometimes not.

Broadcasting is a blast for me, especially now, I am very excited to be a part of HDTV in Omaha. I learn something new everyday.

Some interesting results with the Radio Shack 2160 UHF Yagi newly installed in the attic.

Signal strength is not as good as the Terk Stick antenna I'd been using for the last few years. This was a suprise to me, I figured with the internal amplifier of the Terk turned off that the 2160 would yield better results, but not so.

I used a UHF/VHF combiner to combine the VHF from the Terk and UHF from the 2160, UHF signal strength was unmeasureable (used the same cables for both installs). I should have tried bypassing the combiner and running the 2160 standalone to see if there's any improvement. If so, a dual amplifier UHF/VHF at the antennas may be the way to go. More testing to come this weekend.

Another interesting tid bit I hadn't thought much about until recently is that WOWT is less reliable than KETV. I live one block west of 72nd st in Papillion, about 7 miles straight south the HD towers at 72nd and Crown Point. Since KETV is in front of WOWT from my location, is there a null being created by KETV preventing solid reception of WOWT?

Warren,

Your low power solution appears to be stepping all over WOWT. ;)

John

Just a note about KXVO. I am receiving their signal again tonight , but can't quite figure it out. It shiows as 15-1 KXVO-DT on my Mits but it is full screen but definitely not HD. Can't quite figure that one out?? I know they are not actually suppose to be up for a couple of days at full capacity so maybe it's just a test siganl? Can't figure out the full screen non hd signal though. Even commercials are full screen???

cblake,

There is a mode we can run our encoders in to stretch the 4 x 3 picture and make it fit in 16 x 9.

When you do this, the people get short and fat. Looks strange. Bet that is what KXVO-DT is doing.

The advertisers do not really like their commercials run this way.

Warren,

Thanks for the quick reply. Great information as always. That explains it.

Amen to the advertisers. If I wanted my digital siganl stretched I would do it myself.

Thanks

Warren, I'm curious, On Cox Digital Cable is that being passed through as QAM in the Clear, or does it require a converter box. Most people don't reallize, but with an Integrated Mitsubishi TV, it is not Only an 8VSB tuner inside, it also has a QAM Digital Tuner. I'm just curious if Any Mits TV owners on Cox in Omaha get your signal w/out a Box from Cox. I know that you can get Ch. 3 this way over the Cox system w/ a Mits Integrated TV.

Thanks, S.K.

Warren, Sorry, I should have looked back a few days, I see that it was available on Ch. 108.01.

Thanks for all the good work. The superbowl was awesome. I took a Sony VPLHS10 from our retail store a Mits Set-Top and attended a party at relatives in Greatna. What a great town for Digital TV. Ch. 38 was testing and simulcasting on 43, WOWT and your station both came in great. If you live near Greatna, you should have no problem getting digital television..

Thanks again Warren.

S.K.

Make that Gretna, I think I was thinking Great!!

Warren,

Thanks for the power upgrade. Finally getting KETV in Northwest Lincoln consistantly with a Channel Master CM4221 4 element antenna in an attic above a garage. Works great for KETV and WOWT.

Thanks for the good work.

S.K.

Just wondering if anyone has any new info on KXVO or KPTM? I am receivind KXVO at about 54%( have been for a few days) but KPTM dosen't even register. Wondering what everyone else is receiving????

Thanks

I sent a fax to them today to try and get more information. I hoping to know more within a couple of days.

Warren,

Thanks for the PSIP upgrade. Its nice having guide info for 7.1. And nice to have 7.1 where it should be in the guide.

Doug

dehlers,

What does the guide show for 7.1, does it show 24 hour programming or 12? I assume this is the DirecTV guide you are looking at.

This change must be a "ripple down" effect since I have setup my subscription for PSIP data to feed my PSIP server.

Speaking of PSIP, my server is at the software vendor having the PSIP software installed. Once I receive this back, channel 20 will re-map to 7-1. It will be interesting to see if the OTA viewers will need to "re-scan", or if it will just take care of itself.

Can anyone tell me how many of the Omaha local stations have been added to DISH Network and when the others will most likey be up? My dad lives near there and can't pick up locals very well (analog ones). He qualifies but just wondering who is on already?

Eyedox,

Currently KETV, KMTV, KBIN and KYNE are up on dish.

Still in negotiations are WOWT, KPTM, and KXVO.

Here is a link for some information on this.
http://www.corporate-ir.net/ireye/ir_site.zhtml?ticker=dish&script=410&layout=-6&item_id=371468

Warren

I read that some stations are starting to use the option of mulitple programming. Heard a rumor that channel 13 in Des Moines is putting their normal programming on 19.1 and live radar on 19.2. Any of the Omaha stations have anything planned?

Also wanted to mention that my signal strength meter now shows a new king in the area. KXVO-DT is the strongest followed by WOWT-DT and KETV-DT. This make sense since I live very near the KXVO/KPTM tower. Still no sign of KPTM or KMTV.

Anyone know when or if the NBC (WOWT) station will be available on Cox Cable in HDTV. Not as concerned with Fox (KPTM) or the others, but that info would be great too.

Thanks

Warren,

Your guide appears to end at 12 hours? I have one of the Sony HD200 boxes for OTA and DirecTV. Not only does it end at 12 hours, it crashed my box! This has been documented on the hardware forum here at AVS with other boxes. Apparently much more frequency. I have reset the channel guide and favorites and all is well. But at 12 hours the PSIP was something my Sony didn't like!

I did also seem to show the actual hours of operation on your transmitter. It died on my at 6:30 AM (12 hours forward) but while 7 showed Good Morning America, 7.1 showed Sign off.

Doug

Originally posted by mills83
I read that some stations are starting to use the option of mulitple programming. Heard a rumor that channel 13 in Des Moines is putting their normal programming on 19.1 and live radar on 19.2.
Yup ... WHO-DT 19.1 was up in time for the winter olympics in 1080i last Feb, and last fall they added 19.2 for simulcasting the live radar map. They said it is only a 2Mb/sec stream so it doesn't use a lot of the 19.2 Mb/sec bandwidth either. I would like to start seeing multiple sports team choices on a network. Let me choose whether I want the Packers game on 19.1, Vikings game on 19.2, or Strip Poker on 19.3. :rolleyes:

dougehlers,

Is it the 12 hour guide that your box does not like? Or is it the data?

Sounds like it is the 12 hour guide.

Warren

WOWT and COX are still negotiating the HDTV contract. I know discussions and contracts are exchanging hands on a weekly basis, so I do not expect a long delay.

Jay Nix
Chief Engineer
WOWT

Warren,

I would suspect you are correct. I assume that the HD200 is looking for data from the 7.1 digital stream for the guide. When it does not find any, it hangs up the unit.

What I didn't try, (didn't feel like re-entering my setup) was to see if I was not tuned to 7.1, or at least focusing on 7.1 while looking ahead if it would have caused the problem. At the time I tried this, I had my cursor on 7.1. Had I been up in the 200's or something I wonder if the same would have occurred?

Doug

dehlers,

I think I understand the problem now. You and I think the problem is your box is looking for PSIP data on channel 7.1 OTA and it is upset for two reasons.

First, there is currently no channel 7.1 OTA right now, and second, there is no PSIP data anywhere for KETV-DT.

If that is the case, I would think this problem will clear up when I receive my PSIP server back and get it operational.

I hope this will be next week. I will keep you updated on the progress.

Thanks
Warren

Warren,

When my box reset and reaquired all signals from the antenna and dish, 7.1 came back in. 20.1 did not. Is DirecTV able to have this stay updated? Since a week or two back, 20.1 is no longer in my guide, but 7.1 is.

My box still thinks there is a 7.1???

Doug

First, I'd like to thank whoever posted that link to Ku Satellites up in Canada to get the HDD-201.. Just got mine UPS today! .. Just hooked it up, very impressed. NOW I'M SET. HDD-200 downstairs on the projection, HDD-201 upstairs on the direct view.. Ahh

So, while I'm flipping around testing everything out - I notice Cox has a channel 850 in their program guide, NBAHD! Description says it will be starting Saturday 2/8, covering the NBA all stars.. Whoa

Right now we have a SMPTE color bar pattern, and at the bottom it says CORE DIGITAL - TNT HD in big white letters.. Actually, this is pretty cool - cuz now I can go grab my blue filter from my VE disc and do some calibrations. :)

TNT HD? .. Whooooaaaa that would be cool. :)

WOWT -
How close are you to signing a retrans agreement with DISH Network? My father is anxiously awaiting to add the Omaha locals. I noticed your station was still missing from the lineup.

dimerO, I'm happy to hear the HDD-201 from Canada is working out well for you! I just ordered mine today. Are there any special connections to make besides the provided cable? At NFM a salesman told me I would need to hook up an extra video cable to be able to see the Cox guide while watching HDTV. Any truth to that? I told the salesman I was going to get the box a lot cheaper somewhere else, but he didn't seem to believe me. He stated that $499 is NFM's cost and that they are only selling the boxes to Cox customers as a service.

Thanks for the info. you provided and any future info. you can provide. Also a big thanks to the original poster for this great deal!

dimerO, PlumPeach,

I'm happy that the HDD201 lead helped. I don't know about additional cables, as I don't use the onscreen guide at all. It would be logical to assume that you'd want S-video in addition to the composite. I would look on the Internet as well for cables, NFM makes a mint on cables too.

Do you suppose there's any chance of getting HDNet on Cox?

So, here's how I have both of mine hooked up.

First, the cable they provide has the serial -> high speed connection jack that runs from the cable box to HDD ..

For stations that don't transmit digital audio during standard definition broadcasts (read: cbs/805), you'll need some rca audio cables.

Digital coax from the HDD to your receiver... (if you're running that way... upstairs, i'm just running rca normal audio cables out of the HDD to my TV set)

Component video cables... HDD to TV.

I that's it.

And, no, you don't need to run svideo or any other video cables to see the program guide... For analog signals, they have a switch on the back that you can pick what you want the signal converted to (i leave mine on 1080i) --- it's just that if you're using any part of the guide, since that's analog -- it will blank out your HD feed until you get out of the guide, etc)

I should scan in the instruction book. :)

Anyone see any programming from 43 KPTM-DT yet, the Daytona 500 is rapidly approaching...

John

Originally posted by dimer0
First, I'd like to thank whoever posted that link to Ku Satellites up in Canada to get the HDD-201.. Just got mine UPS today! .. Just hooked it up, very impressed. NOW I'M SET. HDD-200 downstairs on the projection, HDD-201 upstairs on the direct view.. Ahh

So, while I'm flipping around testing everything out - I notice Cox has a channel 850 in their program guide, NBAHD! Description says it will be starting Saturday 2/8, covering the NBA all stars.. Whoa

Right now we have a SMPTE color bar pattern, and at the bottom it says CORE DIGITAL - TNT HD in big white letters.. Actually, this is pretty cool - cuz now I can go grab my blue filter from my VE disc and do some calibrations. :)

TNT HD? .. Whooooaaaa that would be cool. :)

I don't know if this would be the same thing, but I saw a news article stating that NBATV would start broadcasting games in HD. I believe the first game was going to be on 2/16. Don't know if thats the channels that they are going to use or what. I have Dish Network so it would be a different channel # than your set up. There was a post about it on NBA.com this week.

Went back and found the link..........

http://www.nba.com/video/nbatv_030206.html

Cool - well, last night I watched the pre-NBA-Allstar-game festivities in HDTV, and WOW... VERY nice. I'll definitely be tuning in tonight for the All Star Game... To see MJ in HD.. :)

How is NBA TV packaging the HD games? Is it a part of the League pass? Who is onboard to provide the HD feeds? Inquiring minds want to know.

I don't know if there is going to be any special packaging for the HD feeds of the HD games on NBATV. I get the League Pass over Dish Network and NBATV is included in that package, but as of yet there hasn't been any new channel added to my guide. I did some looking and the HD feed of the allstar game is something separate from this. It looked like Direct TV and some of the cable companies have it available.

NBAHD is on my Cox Cable box and it appears to NOT be a premium channel since I am watching the all star game in HD. I am very encouraged by the recent increase in HD programming in Omaha on Cox. Keep it up!

I watched it too, and WOW - the quality was amazing. The halftime show was top notch as well. And having a game where one team scores over 150 points, well - .. :)

I have a feeling this isn't gunna be a always-free channel, cuz when they're not broadcasting, now the text overlaying the SMPTE pattern says "NBA On Demand"..

Eyedox,

We expect to be on the Dish/Echostar system any day. The delay involved negotiating four stations in our group. Omaha, Colorado Springs, Panama City, and Lexington Kentucky.

I understand DirectTV will be adding an additional 100 markets this year. Have not heard if Omaha will be included in this expansion.

Jay Nix
Chief Engineer
WOWT

Jay Nix (WOWT) -
Thanks for the update ... my dad cannot wait for the OMAHA LOCALS to be complete so he can add it. He lives in a tiny town (Pender) 80 miles from Omaha and his reception is terrible. He is still waiting for FOX-KMTV and WB-KXVO in Omaha, which have not signed retrans agreements yet. Anyone know when THEY will be up on DISH?
As for DirecTV, I know that MY market (DES MOINES) is one of the first new 10 cities they will be adding by June. I read a long list of projected Q3 and Q4 2003 locals and am positive I saw Omaha on the list.

Hi Omaha area Hi-def fans, I live in Omaha and totally frustrated with Kmtv in Omaha for not getting their terrestrial dtv signal on the air!!!!I read Titantv website all the time, last fall Kmtv said Nov 1, 2002, then Feb 1, then Feb 15, then as of today Titantv lists Kmtv live date as April 1 2003. I was looking forward to watching the grammys on Feb 23. and many other of their hdtv shows. I would like to thank,Warren from Ketv, and Jay from Wowt for getting their low power dtv signal on the air. I think Kmtv has been dragging their feet on torrential dtv because they have the cox cable Cbs hdtv feed. Question:I currently have Directv and their hdtv and Cox limited basic channels 1-27, can I just get cox local hdtv offerings? and how much can I get a cox Hdtv receiver for ? hd100 or hd200? Thanks

Ronald,

I would like to let you know that DTV is the most important Engineering project at KMTV. We have been working hard to put our system on the air. We believe in doing it right.

We have just completed construction of a completly new building and the installation of a full power Comark UHF transmitter. My only hold up now is the weather. I have to complete tower modifications before my antenna can be mounted at the top. The tower crew is on site and working as weather allows.

Inside timeline, Feb. 28. Outside timeline March 15th in time for the NCAA playoffs.

With that done, KMTV-DT will sign on with 250kw ERP, gradually increasing power. We will be set to broadcast many CBS programs in 1080i format and with Dolby 5.1 surround sound.

I greatly appreciate your patience

Hey Scot, great to see you here. I thought about emailing you today to see how things were going. This saves me from doing that. We look forward to the day you start broadcasting.

Thanks for posting.

Shawn
Zager Antenna

Anyone notice that KETV/809 on Cox is having audio problems right now? .. I had the same issues last night as well.. It's choppy, cutting in and out, but the picture is perfect, which leads me to believe it's not a problem with the quality of my signal, etc

dimer0,

Try channel up / down, if that does not do it, try power off / on the HDD-200.

It is OK here at the moment.

Warren

Thanks, Scott , I thank you for the quick response, and the good news!

Hi all,

Due to the lack of repsones I take it that no-one has yet to see 480p from KPTM. is this correct?

Just wondering when I need to start tweaking the antenna for this weekends 500 event.

Scott,

Thanks for the update, please keep us appraised of your progress.

Regards, John

Welcome Scot! We're waiting in Lincoln for you signal. Good luck and here's to you keeping on schedule. Hope the weather cooperates too.

Jay (WOWT),
Any chance of getting your station via Cox anytime soon? My wife would be ecstatic if I could get rid of all of the weird antenna things and the wires running into my OTA receiver. Right now, the only station that I watch OTA in HD is WOWT, only because I can't get you on Cox.
Jeff

Good news & bad news.

I have noticed a few times when monitoring 809 on Cox cable, the audio would be chopping in and out. I could power on / off the HDD-200 and the problem would clear up. I called Cox Cable this morning and asked about this problem as I thought it was more frequent on KETV-DT. Cox informs me this problem is a software bug in the HDD-200, and Motorola is going to discontinue this box. They will not offer a software fix for this problem.

The new box will be the DCT-5100 (I posted earlier in this thread). I asked Cox if they would be renting this box. I was told no, but NFM will be offering this box to purchase.

I contacted NFM and found out this is true. Matter of fact, they have one demo model now. NFM will be offering this box at roughly $499.00, to be available in March 2003. This box has the decoder inside it and no more side car.

I understand Cox Cable is waiting for software to add to their system to address / control this new box, this software is due in soon.

I would be curious to know for those of you who receive KETV-DT on 108.01 if you have ever had any problems with the above-mentioned audio chopping? If so, do you experience this on any other HD channel? This would confirm to me the problem is only with the HDD-200.

I guess they're the same box anyways, but I've seen this on both my HDD-200 and HDD-201.

I've never had audio choppiness on any of the other channels.. Also - I noticed when I switch to 809, there's some crazy artifacts right before the channel comes clear -- and this also is unique to 809.

Methinks there's something funky going on with 809.

I definitely like the idea of Cox going to the Motorola DCT5100. Hopefully they will also support the DCT5200. It has integrated PVR functionality. I do not know if it will be able to record HD. I think I will wait until it is available before I switch to Cox. I currently have Qwest cable. I tried calling them to ask about HD a few months ago. Got the standard . Yes we have digital cable......, Anyone have anymore info about Qwest and HDTV?

I agree the 5100 or if we are lucky the 5200 look like better boxes.

Here is a link to the manual for the 5100.

http://gicout60.gic.gi.com/customer_docs/user_guides/495012-001-a.pdf

Also, that seems to confirm a discussion I had with a Cox rep that stated they were going to stop renting out digital converters, since the 5100 is a digital converter and a HD converter. I guess I am kind of hoping they start renting them anyway.

Suretytek,

I was informed that WOWT should be on the bird anyday. I know there has been a hold up in a market not associated with Omaha, and is in the process of being resolved.

Sorry for the delay.

Jay

Everyone, Here is an email I got from Rick at KPTM about there DTV broadcast. I hope he doesn't mind that I forwarding it to all of you but here it is.

The information that he talks about in the first paragraph is:
- Antenna height about 300 ft.
- Both antenna on the same legs
- Directional toward Omaha


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shawn,

I received your fax, and your phone message. I have been too tied up with
other tasks to respond until now. The information you have so far is correct.

The published ERP for the antennas is 17.3kw, each channel. Actual ERP is a bit less than that. Because of the geographic location of the KPTM/KXVO
tower, we used a single lobe antenna system, directing 100 percent of the
signal towards Omaha. This was necessary to maintain 48dbu signal strength over the city of license. Beamwidth of the lobe at its widest point is 60 degrees. A compass bearing from Lincoln should be about 43 degrees. Our transmitter site is 2 miles south, and 1 mile east of the Gretna Outlet Mall. Unfortunately, this leaves Lincon out of our digital coverage for now.

Any signals received in Lincoln on 38 or 43 would likely be from reflections
off structures or terrain near the tower. Testing so far appears to back up
the predicted pattern of the antennas. I was unable to decode any digital
signal 1-1/2 miles south-southeast of the tower site, which tends to
reinforce that any signal towards Lincoln would be from reflections. I have
not yet been able to test towards the southwest, but the results will likely
match the other direction.

Power increases to replicate coverage of the analog channels are scheduled to take place in 2004.

I am curious, what brands and models of DTV reception equipment are you
carrying, and what do you have in stock? My search for consumer level gear
in Omaha has been abysmal so far. I have no aversion to directing potential
viewers your way for gear, even if the KPTM / KXVO signals cannot be picked
up at your location.

Thanks for your interest!

Rick Graham
Chief Engineer
Pappas Telecasting of the Midlands
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hope that this helps everyone out.
Shawn

Thanks Shawn.

So do I read between the lines correctly that in 2004 the power will be increased...

-------------------------------------
...so Lincoln will be covered?
-------------------------------------

I'm guessing the answer is no. Is KPTM an Omaha DMA while Lincoln's DMA is served by Fox from Grand Island. TW cable offers KPTM 42 and not KTVG.

Can we as Lincoln viewers secede and join the Omaha DMA? Perhaps a violent revolution?

This Omaha/Lincoln DMA split has always been a thorn in my foot. Their is no possible way for us to get the NBC KHAS affiliate. I cannot get LIL via satellite or through TW cable.

;) [rant off]

From talking to Rick, in 2004 they would cover the Lincoln and Omaha area similar to there analog coverage.

I agree with the Lincoln and Omaha split. Also with the different laws that allow Time Warner to broadcast out of market stations the a laws not allowing satellite to do the same. Help one and screw the other. The weird thing is that there are other markets out there that are in the same boat as Lincoln/Omaha. I don't know how to get it changed.

Warren. I watch KETV on 108.01 and have NOT noticed the audio issues.

sbswrmd,

Thank-you for the information:), this supports what Cox told me. I wonder if this “bug” with the 200 series box is more prominent when decoding the 720p format, as it sure seems to appear more on 809 than other HD channels.

Warren

Hi, Omaha area hi-def fans. I have a question? Anyone in Omaha receiving Kptm or Kxvo dtv? I live around 90th and Pacific and have no signal. Thanks

Shawn, Thanks for the post.

Soap box mode:

I doubt there is any law saying that KPTM - KXVO can only transmit to Omaha and not Lincoln. After all, their analog coverage includes both plus a lot more. Basically it sounds to me like that just did the minimum to get up and going. Pretty poor right out of the gate. KETV and WOWT have done a great job getting something to their viewers. (KMTV is trying to save face by saying they are doing it right... no signal? not right yet!) Beside KPTM-KXVO can't broadcast anything but upconvert right now anyway so the analog is just going to have to do.

Soap box off.

Doug

Anyone else think it is less than ideal that Cox is not making the 5100 available for rent? I always thought that was one of those positives about Cox against satellite, didn't have to buy the equipment, heck they even use that in their advertising. Now I have to drop $500 for something I usually had to pay $4 a month for.

Any idea if Cox will even support the box if there are problems? I can't imagine having to ship the cable box back to Moto for repair and be without cable, beyond the basic, for two months. I have read other cable companies are providing the box so why isn't Cox? Anyone know? I think I will write them and see if I can get an answer.

Cox is very secretive about HDTV for some reason. I e-mailed them about the box and their only response was that they would not be renting it. They would not say why. I'm glad I found out about getting the HDD-200 from KU-SAT in Canada because it saved me a lot of money. I'm sure there will be some benefits to the new box, but I'm happy with the HDD-200, and I have not experienced any of the audio problems on KETV. Maybe it's due to the fact that I have the digital audio going from the digital cable box directly into my receiver and not from the digital cable box and then through the HDD-200 and then into the receiver. I'm still experimenting with things, but as of right now I am more than happy with HDTV.

Here is a link that gives the schedule and channel info on the NBA games in HD...............

http://www.nba.com/video/nbacom_tv.html

Originally posted by mdg
Anyone have anymore info about Qwest and HDTV?

I have Qwest cable. I am pleased with their service and the fact that they offer affordable "business class" internet service that gives me a static IP with inbound and outbound traffic without any hassles or issues.

I also know the story behind Qwest's cable offering...

In the early 90's, when the techno-rage was offering "interactive TV", USWest (now Qwest) wired up half the city with fiber optic with the plans of test marketing interactive TV services. Well, of course that all fell through, because of obvious technical problems, lack of standards, etc. So, rather than throw the many millions of dollars out the window, they decided to offer regular cable TV service and compete with Cox. This was well before Cox had a digital offering. USWest TeleChoice offered more channels at a much lower rate. Then, in late 1996, the began to offer broadband internet service through a proprietary backend with cable modems built by LANCity.

At any rate, HDTV via Qwest really is probably not possible without major equipment changes at the head end as well as the neighborhood hubs. TeleChoice has always offered cable service without the need for boxes because they just send an analog signal to your house from the neighborhood hub. Channel descrambling is not done in home but rather at their CO and the neighborhood hubs (every 10 homes has a fiber hub of sorts).

Obviously, Qwest has the bandwidth for HDTV. If I recall, each home has close to 500 megabits of network capacity. Of course, you couldn't have too many HD channels, but then... how do you tackle the issue of not having to provide a cable box? You could encode everything as 8VSB and run that to each home that wanted it, but I am sure that that sort of thing would require new hardware in the hubs to deal with and to modulate the new signal.

In short form: Qwest will never offer HDTV via their cable system because it's not design to make money, it's designed to keep Qwest's partial fiber deployment from being written off as a loss. Qwest makes enough money from the system to justify its existence and that's pretty much it. :)

-- Robert

Hi to all!

Great information being posted here on the board. Just thought I would let everyone know that tomorrow we will be proofing our DTV transmitter.

There is a picture of our new KM-home theater located under the gallery button.

The transmitter is a Thales (formerly Comark) with two IOTs. The transmitter will enable us to run 800kW ERP.

As soon as the tower mods are done in the next three weeks or so (weather permitting), we will be on the air with 250kW ERP at first.

I know that this been a long time coming, but I think it will be worth it.

(P.S. My picture was removed. Another source of home theater entertainment ie: OTA HD, doesn't seem to be important to the web master. I guess they feel that DVD's are the only thing to watch.)

Mike good news, I have a question? How many more good weather working days needed to complete the tower mods?

I wish the tower crew could tell me. Due to the complexity of the project, it would be very difficult to get a definite number of days left to complete the project.

The tower crew is very professional and safety is their biggest concern as it is to us. They will not be rushed or cut corners.

They have 2/3rds of the redundants and bracing completed. Next they will hang the last 400 plus feet of six inch feed line followed by the replacement of four levels of guy wires. Lastly, they will hang the antenna.

This has been a major engineering project. Completed so far:

Extensive tower studies, new building with all of the mechanical, tower base enlargement, moving KGOR and KQKQ FM antennas , the removal of an additional FM, lower 75 feet tower leg beefing, removal of old dishes and feed lines etc. etc.

This project has been painful at times but mostly a lot of fun, especially now that the end of the project is nearing.

We haven't been sitting on our duffs here. Jay can attest to that. Remember KMTV was the first in the nation to provide an HD signal on a cable system, Jay had a big part in that.

Soon we will all rejoice as we watch our favorite soap in HD.

Mike is correct, HDTV in Omaha has been a hugh project. KM3 has performed extensive modifications and a hugh buildout to provide HDTV. I toured the new HD transmitter building last week, and was extremely impressed. Warren at KETV did an excellent job in determining a resolution for HDTV on his current tower. Purchasing a Dual-Band antenna to transmit both 7 and 20 was an excellent decision for thier situation. Although we are fierce competitors in our news ratings, the engineering staffs are very familiar with each other and communicate on a regular basis.

Thanks for the kind words Mike!

Jay

Thanks for the info Mike.

Not to put the pressure on, put check out this link;

Sears, CBS team up to broadcast 2003 NCAA Men's Basketball Championship, including the Final Four and Championship games in HDTV (http://cbs.sportsline.com/u/cbs/sports/news/0220ncaahdtv.htm)

5.1 sound too!

We were shooting for a March 15th deadline for the very fact that the NCAA games would be broadcast in HDTV. Depending on the weather, we may need to extend that to March 20th. After next week, the transmitter will be tuned and ready to go. We'll keep you posted.

And, when we do hit the air, it will include 5.1 surround!

Jay - I saw a post today that says your parent company signed with DISH Network for your Colorado Springs and Omaha (WOWT) stations on retrans consent. Can you confirm this and do you know when they will be online?

Anyone else having trouble with Wowt-dt tonight? I have a dish 6000, usually wowt shows up as 006-01, but tonight its back to 022-01, and there is a strong signal, but no audio or video. KETV-dt seems to be working fine..........

No 6-01 or 22-01 here for me.

In our effort to update the software in our HDTV Encoder, the system has completely crashed. Every attempt to recover from the "screen of death" progressed us deeper into software glitches.

We are now attempting to load an older version of software.

I have talked with Dish/Echostar and was informed that we were on the system as of Wednesday morning.

Jay

We loaded software that is two versions old, but the system seems to be happy again. I cannot remember if it was this version that the Samsung T-150 decoders did not care for.

Let me know if any additional problems arise. They are sending me a loaner unit so ours can head for the factory for hardware updates.

Jay

Eyedox,

Here is a press release from Dish Network, it lists the counties the Omaha locals are available in (analog only, not HD). I think you said your father is in Pender, I believe that is in Thurston county.

If this is the case, Thurston is not listed, Cuming is. I think the issue
with Thurston is it falls into another market.

Warren

Do the area DTV broadcasers have plans to utilize the sub-channels for other uses? I've seen weather radar on sub-channels. Perhaps when the NCAA Men's BBall tourney rolls around, KMTV could carry other regionals on the sub-channels. That would a phenominal use of the technology. Just think how cool that would be...

When you carry a program in HD, you can carry maybe one additional Standard definition at the same time. This is due to bandwidth limitations.

You could, however, carry four or maybe five standard definition programs in the bit-stream at the same time.

This could be expensive, as you have to buy a seperate encoder for each additionional program and mux it all together into the bit-stream to the transmitter. You would also have to have a separate satellite receiver/decoder for each network program to be carried.

Our sister station in Portland, OR (KOIN) received special permission from CBS and carried five games at the same time several years ago.

The stations have been discussing multicasting several years now. You have to put together a business plan and decide what programming, if any, you would run and when.

Is there revenue to be had and will it be worth the additional resources required to program additional channels.

Just a thank you for all the efforts and civil dialogue that is ongoing here on this thread.

There are a few players missing (i.e. local cable reps) however that does not detract from the great info that IS posted here.

I'm personally pretty pumped about the KMTV upgrade. HOpefully it will happen in time for the games, albeit I believe everyone knows that safety must come first.

Keep up the great work.

Hi, anyone in omaha getting Kptm or Kxvo digital signal?

Hello: 1st time poster in this forum.

I'm new to the HDTV arena, live in west Omaha and have a few questions. I have a new DLP projector that will do HDTV (720P) and a Toshiba HDTV capable rear projection TV. Until now, I've resisted the HDTV fever, but feel that it may be time to "jump in." My question to you all is where do I get the most bang for the buck? My families viewing habits center around local channels with occasional HBO and Showtime for feature films. I currently have Cox digital cable, but would be willing to consider satellite or OTA. I understand the local channels are available on DISH, but are they in high def? I also understand that COX is dragging it's feet in offering any type of converter boxes for HD. I would like one solution, so I don't have multiple monthly costs (ie cable + Satellite for example). Sorry if this has been brought up before, but by being a lurker for awhile, I surmised that someone else might have done this before me and I can learn from their experience. You can PM me privately if you prefer. Thanks in advance.

CJ

Originally posted by WOWT
We loaded software that is two versions old, but the system seems to be happy again. I cannot remember if it was this version that the Samsung T-150 decoders did not care for.

Let me know if any additional problems arise. They are sending me a loaner unit so ours can head for the factory for hardware updates.

Jay

Didn't see anyone post on this subject again yet, just wanted to note that I am still not getting any programming off of Wowt-dt. Its still showing up as 22-01 with a strong signal, but no video or audio. I'm using a dish 6000 system.

sb60634

I see WOWT-DT here at home (132 Pacific) Ok. Maybe since Jay had to go back a couple of software versions to get running again, there may be something missing that your Dish 6000 is looking for in the channel re-map area.

Long shot here, but is there a software reset on your box? Maybe un-plug it for a minute and re-scan.

Warren

Thanks for the reply. I went back in and removed channel 22-01 from my list and then added it back manually and it works fine now. I hadn't taken time to mess with it because I saw they where having problems. Thank goodness for this board or I might have been waiting quite awhile. Thanks again....

PS Its showing up as 6-01 again like its suppose to.

sb60634,

Glad to hear that fixed it.

Remember that trick as you will more than likely need to do this to channel 20-1 when I get my PSIP running as I will have it set to re-map KETV-DT to 7-1.

I hope to see my PSIP server next week. I will post when this is up and running.

If you are interested, I have attached a picture of the KMTV-DT transmitter.

Mike, can you explain what we re seeing in your picture?

What is the tall black rack to the left of center?

Are those wave quides above the equipment, the black rectangular ducting?

The black rack contains the HD monitoring equipment.

Yes, that is waveguide you are seeing. What you see combines the two IOT cabinet's RF outputs together. Hanging down immediately below you will see the reject load (the black cyclinder with a silver band in the middle).
It is a water cooled dummy load. You have to balance the two IOT outputs for minimum power into the reject load.

Only about half of the inside RF plumbing is visible in this picture. Most of the copper pipes that run horizontal are for water cooling. The RF feedlines are the two bigger vertical copper pipes that you see.

When we add a third IOT to run a megawatt, we have to add an additional combiner.

There is another section of waveguide that is part of the band filtering. It filters out all of the unwanted out-of-band products from your signal.

I have attached a picture of that to this post. The black cylinder that is hanging under the filter (right frame of picture) is the main water cooled dummy load. The Six inch feed line to the antenna taps off of the wave guide after the filter.

I have 1,000 or more pictures of this project already, from tower mods and prep to transmitter stuff. We will try and post some of them on our web site in the near future.

Mike Gann,

What brand MPEG-2 encoder are you guys using? Just a
personal interest. I used to develop MPEG-2 encoder
microcode, and am not impressed with the Lucent/Harris
encoders at all.

Ron

The HD encoder is a Tandberg.

Do you need lead underwear when entering the room? ;)

In the KMTV transmitter photo, you can see the IOT tube cabinets labled V1 & V2. The exciter cabinet is the narrower to the right side of the rig. Directly above the transmitter you can see the silver cable tray running into the control room.

Coming out of the top of V1 & V2 you can see each 3-1/2" copper transmission line going up and over to the black "magic tee" waveguide that combines the outputs of the two IOT's. The waveguide continues in a u-shape. In the attached photo you can see the waveguide filtering that ends in a switch which allows us to switch the transmitter output from antenna to dummy load. The switch output is 6-1/2" transmission line that exits the building and runs up the tower to the antenna.

The black cylinder that hangs just under the "magic tee" is the VSWR reject load. All of the other copper pipe you see is cooling plumbing for the IOT's and reject loads using a water glycol mixture.

The black rack in front of the transmitter holds our off air decoder, monitor and test gear.

I know this isn't cheap. Can you divulge how much the digital upgrade is costing the station?