I dunno how these DMA rules work, but Sunflower has always provided us the Analog signals for KC AND Topeka for ABC, CBS, and NBC (and, PBS, for that matter). Somewhat redundant, but at least we have 7 different news broadcasts (including Fox, only from KC) to choose from and, if one of the locals is going "weather warning" crazy, we can switch to a less intrusive broadcast. Analog only, of course.

Is this off topic? I'm just glad to have people talking about Lawrence on the boards.

Originally posted by timmy1376
Then how is Sunflower allowed to give you WIBW in HD?? It that way of thinking works, then Cox could give us ABC and Fox from KC in HD right??


Don't ask me why the cable companies have an advantage in that regard...

For instance, in St. Joe, MO, you cannot even get locals over satellite out of KC because it's in the St. Joe DMA (even though ABC is the only major affiliate), but the cable company can give out the KC AND St. Joe channels...and they are doing the KC locals in HD, or at least some of them..

It's government bs...

Many areas of the Topeka DMA get KC Locals and Topeka locals over cable.

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
Don't ask me why the cable companies have an advantage in that regard...

For instance, in St. Joe, MO, you cannot even get locals over satellite out of KC because it's in the St. Joe DMA (even though ABC is the only major affiliate), but the cable company can give out the KC AND St. Joe channels...and they are doing the KC locals in HD, or at least some of them..

It's government bs...

Many areas of the Topeka DMA get KC Locals and Topeka locals over cable.

I actually agree that they should be able to do it. I just wish here in Manhattan that Cox would give us KMBC and WDAF out of KC since the local ABC and FOX do not do HD.

It would be nice if satellite was allowed to also.

Ok, who wants to join the "no HD Super Bowl" pity party?

I am still hoping that I won't be attending such a party. I definitely wouldn't get the invitations printed any earlier than I had absolutely had to.

I just got home today and found channel 204 DWDAF on my channel guide. Can it be that Sunflower has come through? I'm a little giddy, which has prompted my wife to ask if I love my TV more than her. Perhaps I should calm down. I hope this is real and that it's not a test.

Kansas Capital Broadcasting, the owners of KTKA-TV sold KTPK-FM for $5.7 million. Maybe they will use some of that money to upgrade to HD.

Has anyone ever had any luck getting responses from KTMJ here in Topeka? I've sent emails, letters and a phone message to the general manager, (Dave Waters), asking for a waiver to get the network Fox feed from Directv purely for the HD content. Once KTMJ goes HD, I'll immediately cancel the Directv feed. However, I've never received any kind of reply, which I find somewhat un-professional.
Also, does anyone know the timetable for KTMJ to begin broadcasting digitally, and specifically in HD?
Thanks,
Bish

does anyone know the timetable for KTMJ to begin broadcasting digitally, and specifically in HD?

Does KTMJ actually offer a broadcast signal? It's my understanding that Cox tried to get KTMJ-HD on their system in time for the Super Bowl. The delay has been on KTMJ's end but I don't believe there's some inherent barrier preventing them from being in HD. At this point and at any point in the future, they could be on Cox in a matter of weeks. Unfortunately, a real timetable needs real dates.

A couple of weeks ago I posted that I wouldn't give up on the Super Bowl in HD. Obviously, I now have, but when I posted that a carriage agreement was a realistic possibility. I would think it still is.

Originally posted by thebishman
Has anyone ever had any luck getting responses from KTMJ here in Topeka? I've sent emails, letters and a phone message to the general manager, (Dave Waters), asking for a waiver to get the network Fox feed from Directv purely for the HD content. Once KTMJ goes HD, I'll immediately cancel the Directv feed. However, I've never received any kind of reply, which I find somewhat un-professional.
Also, does anyone know the timetable for KTMJ to begin broadcasting digitally, and specifically in HD?
Thanks,
Bish

Actually, I just did today. I like you have emailed and called both Waters, Dave and Bart, with no response. I had also emailed their engineer, with no response. But looking today, I see they have a new engineer named Kristen. I email, and within an hour, got something back.

Like Matthew, she says they are working with Cox to get the Fox HD feed on the cable system. I wouldn't hold my breath for the Super Bowl, but perhaps sometime.

I too believe they should at least respond, and in the past they have not. Now, let's not stuff Kristen's inbox, but it's nice to know someone there will respond.

tim

Bart and Dave are both good folk. I'm sure they are trying their best to improve that station and hope we don't give up on them. Having said that, after watching the Philadelphia game on Fox and then switching to WIBW 44 i was amazed that i hadn't vomited during the Fox show. I really have HD disease and it's at its worst when i switch from and SD sport to an HD sport

They may well be 'really good people", but good customer relations demand that you should at least respond to a viewer, (customer), like myself who has repeatedly sent correspondence, only to receive no answer. Further, if they cared for their customers, and for HD programing, they would allow those of us using Directv waivers so that we can watch the Fox HD network feed from Directv until KTMJ begin broadcasting OTA HD. There is no downside for them to do this as as soon as KTMJ goes live with HD, I would immediately cancel my Fox network feed from Directv and watch KTMJ HD using my OTA antenna.

Originally posted by thebishman
They may well be 'really good people", but good customer relations demand that you should at least respond to a viewer, (customer), like myself who has repeatedly sent correspondence, only to receive no answer. Further, if they cared for their customers, and for HD programing, they would allow those of us using Directv waivers so that we can watch the Fox HD network feed from Directv until KTMJ begin broadcasting OTA HD. There is no downside for them to do this as as soon as KTMJ goes live with HD, I would immediately cancel my Fox network feed from Directv and watch KTMJ HD using my OTA antenna.

Adding to that, they are getting paid by Directv since you sub to the Topeka locals. I believe that they should not show a subscriber loss because of the waiver. I may be wrong, however.

As it is now, I watch little to none KTMJ or KTKA programming. I can usually find something to watch in HD on another channel. So they loose anyway. I have sent emails to both letting them know this. Now I just need to let their advertiser know this.

I'm the exact same way. If it comes down to KTMJ or WIBW and the WIBW show is a network HD feed, they'll generally always get my 'business'; that's how brilliant HD is, (unless the show is a real pig of course).

BTW BJS188, do you use Directv?

If you have the HD disease as most of us do, the show can be really bad and we'll still watch it over an SD superbowl :D

Originally posted by thebishman
BTW BJS188, do you use Directv?

Yes. I even pay for locals but only watch them on SD tvs.

Originally posted by BJS188
Yes. I even pay for locals but only watch them on SD tvs.

I have emptied out space in my mail box if you were trying to pm me.
Bish

Can anyone verify reception of the OTA guide and closed caption for WIBW.

Hello Topeka

Im from the Omaha NE thread. Looks like we have the same problem. Emmis owns one of your stations (KSNT) in the area and they will not let them put there HD Channel on Cable as they want Money for a Free over the air channel.

Please help and Email Emmis and let them know what you think.

===============Pasted from the thread==============

Looks like over in the Omaha-Lincoln Ne Thread the Cox Cable Emmis issue is still alive.

Emmis pulled there CBS HD from Cox cable one year again demanding money for the free over the air channel.


Here is the thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/show...&pagenumber=130


Here is some info on who to Email- pated from the thread

Here are the EMAIL Addresses for the Top VPs at Emmis Corp (the ones who own KM3 and the ones who made them pull the HD).

Cut and Past Comma delimited:

rmena@emmis.com,desayian@emmis.com,kate@emmis.com,staffingde partment@emmis.com,ir@emmis.com,wzberger@emmis.com,rcummings @emmis.com

(below is a line by line list)

Please Email them weekly and ask for the free HD channel to be put back on.



KM3 and Emmis one year ago said they pulled there HD Feed because cox was charging for it and making money on it.

Things have changed in the last year.

Now all cable systems in a Emmis area offer the Local HD channels FREE unscrambled via free QAM channels.

This means the Emmis reasoning is no longer valid. They have no reason to demand money for a FREE OVER THE AIR HD Signal.

After all the Government, our tax money gave them the channel. We should be able to watch it free over the air and free on cable.

It is time for Emmis to add KM3 HD back to Cox.



rmena@emmis.com
desayian@emmis.com
kate@emmis.com
staffingdepartment@emmis.com
ir@emmis.com
wzberger@emmis.com
rcummings@emmis.com

A couple of months ago, I heard Cox was supposed to be adding 5 or 6 HD channels in the first of the year. So dissappointing. Then again, why should I have expected Cox to do anything except raise rates. They can barely keep their IP network up.

So no Fox in HD...stinks. Does KC have any HD Fox stations we can get from T-town(OTA)?

WDAF, (Fox in KC), is broadcasting a digital signal and in HD, BUT it is only a very low power signal that can be received, (if lucky), within 10-15 miles from reports. WDAF does give their HD feed to the local cable co in KC I think. No chance of HD Fox here in Topeka anytime soon, unless WDAF goes full power, and by some Godsend we can pick it up here. No idea when KTMJ goes digital yet.

Thanks Bish...I was going to buy an antenna and try....you save me some grief.

Originally posted by spaceghost
A couple of months ago, I heard Cox was supposed to be adding 5 or 6 HD channels in the first of the year. So dissappointing. Then again, why should I have expected Cox to do anything except raise rates. They can barely keep their IP network up.

So no Fox in HD...stinks. Does KC have any HD Fox stations we can get from T-town(OTA)?

Where did you hear they were adding channels? What channels did you hear?

I heard from a friend of the family over Thanksgiving. Those were the same questions I asked him. but he didn't know anything...said he heard it from someone at cox. was just a rumor...I was hoping though.

Does anyone know where Directv put eqpt to get their local feeds from? They came to our company looking for space and required a direct line of site to all the local towers (from the top of our building no less). Guess they wanted to put antenna's on the roof and pull in the feed.

Spaceghost,
That's interesting. I was under the impression that Directv took a fibre-optic feed from the locals to the up-link site in CO. Perhaps the fibre lines are only for certain locals, and some, (smaller?), markets like ours they just 'rip' the signal from an OTA antenna.
Bish

Originally posted by thebishman
Spaceghost,
That's interesting. I was under the impression that Directv took a fibre-optic feed from the locals to the up-link site in CO. Perhaps the fibre lines are only for certain locals, and some, (smaller?), markets like ours they just 'rip' the signal from an OTA antenna.
Bish

Actually, if I am not mistaken, their receive facility is through KTWU. If you notice, on Directv, KTWU is by far the best quality. WIBW, KTKA, and KSNT are all obviously picked up with an antenna, because they all have all the qualities of an analog over the air signal, ghosting. Not sure on KTMJ, but if you look close, you will see a faint bar that moves up the screen, so it seems they may be picked up with an antenna. KTMJ is on the same tower at KTWU.

I'll try to find the site survey form they sent us...it's what I got my assumptions off.

Ok, here it is...hope I don't get fired or sued.......I believe they wanted several DS3's for the backhaul into their network...

[Sorry guys, we might have a NDA with them...so I snipped most of it]

9. Ownership, Permits and Roof Rights
9.1 Will any permits be required for the installation of either off-air antennas or baseband equipment?

9.2 Are there any city codes (building codes, ordinances, aesthetic considerations, etc) that would affect the proposed off-air installation?

9.3 Are there any building-imposed requirements or permits that would affect the installation?

9.4 Who owns the building? Station, Co-lo provider or third party?

9.5 If the rooftop is owned by a third party, are roof rights obtainable? Identify company name, point of contact and phone number.

9.6 Are there any restrictions on owner installation of equipment, i.e. restrictions on whether NTC will be permitted to install the baseband systems or off-air equipment on site? Will DIRECTV need to hire union contractors?

9.7 Does the site require an engineering study to install antennas on an existing tower or rooftop?

11.3 If survey is performed at a TV station, can the station provide a direct feed of its signal (i.e. baseband video and audio)? Can the off-air signal serve as a viable backup source?

12. Off-Air Survey & Installation Details
12.1 Will the site permit the installation of a mast and the following complement of mast-mounted equipment?
_ VHF/UHF broadcast television receive antennae (2 or more)
_ DIRECTV broadcast satellite receive antenna (18” diameter dish)
_ Down lead access (4 or more)

12.11 Identify the area near the tower where the RF enclosure may be installed.

12.22 Who will provide the off-air antenna installation including mast or tower?

12.24 Describe (sketch) the physical layout of the rooftop including the survey location(s) and proposed location of VHF/UHF and DIRECTV antennae. If the proposed location is on a tower ensure that this tower is shown on the layout. Include the orientation of the tower as well as dimensions. This information will help in locating the antennas on the correct leg of the tower.
*Indicate the site approved areas on the rooftop for the planned off-air antenna installation.

13.2 What is the distance or travel time from the nearest airport that services the DMA?

Off-Air RF Survey Procedure
_ Before starting the survey contact the local stations to determine if any planned maintenance will be performed during the survey period. This may have an impact on the signal level received during the survey.
_ Gain access to the rooftop and a nearby source of AC power.
_ With reference to the azimuth map, complete a visual survey of the roof and the surrounding area to determine the most likely survey location within the site approved area.
_ Move survey equipment to the survey location. Assemble tripod and antenna; set up test equipment.

For each channel:
_ Orient the antenna to desired azimuth using a compass.
_ Select the channel on the RF meter.
_ Using RF meter, adjust the antenna for a peak reading.
_ Record the reading.
_ Compare the reading with the predicted result from the pre-survey. Investigate any large discrepancies (ie. > + or - 10dBmV ) and explain the possible causes.
_ Select the correct pad value to obtain +15dBmV at the demodulator input.
_ Record the picture quality (*see below) with ghostbuster on and off.
_ If a channel has signal impairments:
_ Describe the problem in the report (path blockages, interference, low level, etc).
_ Identify an alternate location, if available.
_ If an alternate location is identified, re-survey all channels from that location.
_ Using the RF meter take an RF scan with the antenna pointed at the following azimuths:
0, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300 degrees relative to true north. The scans should be named as follows: WI2_A000 where WI represents the location (Wichita site 2); A represents the survey location and 000 represents the
azimuth.
_ Draw a rooftop plan view indicating survey location(s), proposed antenna/mast location(s), conduit paths, grounding connection points, building penetrations for downlead access, etc. Include a compass heading on the drawing.
_ Examine the rooftop structure to propose mast mounting, grounding, and pullbox attachment methods.
_ Walk the downlead path to location of proposed baseband installation, and estimate or measure downlead length.
_ Take rooftop photos as described below.

*Picture quality ratings are to be based on the following table:

Numeric Value Subjective Assessment Criteria

1 Excellent Perfect. No anomalies.
2 Good Some noise or ghosting, barely discernable.
3 Fair Noticeable noise or ghosting.
4 Poor Noticeable noise, ghosting and distortion.
5 Very Poor Not viewable. Unacceptable.

You know you guys are obviously right. The damn Directv feed of our locals are terrible, so they must be coming from an antenna. Fibre, even hugely compressed by Directv, should look far better than what we're seeing.
Bish

"with ghostbuster on and off"...guess that's the tradeoff. Get the most channels looking good...

If KTMJ is on the same tower, I'm assuming they don't have any eqpt onsite to feed directly into DTV like KTWU can...and picking up the signal off an antenna directly above/below would result in terrible reception...unless KTMJ is REALLY that generic.

Ok, here's another question then. How is Dish getting locals here? Maybe they worked a deal with dtv to "share"?

2nd request:
Could someone please take a moment and check that WIBW has guide information as well as closed captions.
It would be appreciated.

Thanks

Originally posted by VideoTech
2nd request:
Could someone please take a moment and check that WIBW has guide information as well as closed captions.
It would be appreciated.

Thanks

I'd help you if I could. I cannot get WIBW-DT. I am sure BJS or someone else will try.

Could someone please take a moment and check that WIBW has guide information as well as closed captions.

I just checked it OTA during the State of the Union wrap-up. The miniguide had all the info on my Samsung 151 but the full guide was blank. Captions didn't work, but it could be because the program wasn't captioned.

Cox had both.

I'll start a rumor. Topeka PBS and CBS will start locally originated broadcasts soon. I can't wait. :D

Originally posted by notreally
I'll start a rumor. Topeka PBS and CBS will start locally originated broadcasts soon. I can't wait. :D

In HD I assume? That would be awesome.

Matthewt;
Thanks for the reply.
I'll take that as a yes, the OTA guide is there. Since the mini guideand the full guide are reading the same tables it must must be a local box issue.
Captions is another issue because those type of events are captioned.

Thanks

Man Fox looked horrible last night on Cox. I could BARELY watch the SB. It looked worse than I've ever seen it. Almost looked like they tried to pick up the feed from an antenna. I am glad I didn't try to throw a SB party..people would have thought my pj sucked.

For those interested who get thier Topeka locals from satellite, someone posted the significaly viewed FCC document. Topeka has 3 stations from KC listed and us in the Manhattan area will get zero added if I understand it correctly.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=506600

Has anyone here in our area heard when KTMJ is going digital?
They simply will not respond to any correspondence I send them regardless of the type sent.
Bish

Haven't heard. They're so low budget, they might dump before the mandate hits. Speaking of the FCC mandate, when is the date now? I've heard rumors as late as 2009 now...and correct me if I'm wrong, but that's just to be digital right? Not that they have to be transmitting in HD by then.

For KTMJ, they are a Class A (?) station and their digital channel assingments haven't even been made yet. I think I heard that a Class A station in Florida asked for a digital channel and just recently got one.

Originally posted by spaceghost
Haven't heard. They're so low budget, they might dump before the mandate hits. Speaking of the FCC mandate, when is the date now? I've heard rumors as late as 2009 now...and correct me if I'm wrong, but that's just to be digital right? Not that they have to be transmitting in HD by then.

There is no mandate anyone HAS to do HD. Just digital.

I heard from a guy I know who just went to work for them overnight on the weekends. He says they don't even have any digital equipment. They play programs off of home DVD players too and the old shows are on some sort of big tape he said he'd used when he was in school. They got no digital allotment from the FCC and won't get one in the near future. I guess this means no Fox HD for us for a while. Also said the girl engineer was some trade school newbie too. :(

Hopefully when the digital white area gets solved, we will be able to get FOX-HD programming for another source. If our local station does not want to provide it, then we should be able to get it from DIRECTV or DISH. I would guess that even cable would be able to provide an FOX-HD feed from someone.

Since Cox has WDAF, (Fox channel 4), from K. City already, I'm surprised that they aren't showing the WDAF HD feed as Time Warner is showing in the K. City area.
Really it's a shame that KTMJ has made no move towards digital/HD broadcasting. Perhaps they don't understand that it is HD that is bringing people like myself back to network TV. BUT, I'll go where the HD is, and if KTMJ won't supply me with the best quality I'll look to the other networks or satellite.
Bish

WIBW-DT for the first time that I have seen was stretching local programming (local commercials and news) on Thursday night. I wonder (hope) that this is preparing them to go to HD for local news.

Also be sure to watch WIBW news at 10 starting tonight to win an HDTV. I can't win so I hope one of you guys do.

http://www.wibw.com/unclassified/1249182.html

BJS188,
Yes I also saw that last night they were up-converting their local non-HD programming to 1080i and 16:9. There were a lot of video artifacts that I noticed; (primarily linear pink or green 'lines' stretching from one side of the screen to the other at times, as well as the occasional A/V sync problem), but I can certainly forgive them those minor glitches as they are still early in the up-conversion process.
WIBW really ought to be congratulated for the excellent job they've done here in Topeka both being the first to bring us HD, and now the first to begin to display their local programming in 16:9, 1080i. They leave behind all of their 'peers' in the Topeka market re: their commitment to 'digital' TV.
Bish

I hate to burst any bubbles but I think WIBW DT is actually having HD problems and that is why seeing the SD material stretched rather than the prior practice of upconverting their SD. I e-mailed them Sunday night when the Grammys was not shown in HD. They responded with this:While conducting a monthly test early Friday morning we experienced a power surge that disabled one of our HD cards. What I have seen in terms of SD material this week has not been very good at all. Strangely enough do seem to be showing the CBS HD material fine. I also asked about the news going HD and their response was someday but wouldn't expect it for some time.

I agree they are a local leader in HD and I am really hoping for great things from them. Unfortunately this doesn't seem to be it.

It's interesting what you say about WIBW, and the recent 16:9 ratio on their local material.

Here is why I assumed that they were beginning to up-convert the 1080i/4:3 to 1080i/16:9:

I use a Sony HD300 to receive my locals, including WIBW 13.1, (44), OTA. It feeds my plasma via Auto-DVI and hence will only output 480p and 1080i as my Panny plasma does not accept 720p.

Now, when the Panny receives a 480p broadcast, I'm able to use multiple 're-sizing' modes, BUT when it receives a 1080i broadcast, it only allows Shrink, Standard and Expand. I have only been able to use the later, (1080i), modes when viewing WIBW regardless of whether they were broadcasting the local programming in 4:3 or the recent 16:9. Therefore, I was thinking that they are simply broadcasting SD local in 1080i, BUT had begun to convert that broadcast from 4:3 to 16:9.

It would be great if someone from the station engineering dept. would actually let us know what 'resolution' and format the local programming is being sent out in. It certainly looks very good considering it is not captured in HD; (except for the video artifacts and A/V sync issues of course).
Bish

I'm becoming increasingly frustrated with KTMJ Fox Topeka. Not only are they not doing HD (obviously), but now we're unable to even enjoy the SD programming. We don't watch that many things on Fox, but one of them is American Idol (as much as I hate to admit it in a public forum). The poor video quality is one thing, but the last several shows have been coming through (via Cox digital cable) so distorted on the audio side that the show is hardly watchable. The audio is pretty damn important for a singing show! I don't think it's my setup, since I haven't noticed this problem on other channels. Anyone else having problems?

I noticed tonight the audio on KTMJ on Cox was pretty bad. I though it was just my TV.

I get KTMJ on DIRECTV and the sound is horrible also. It is about 3 times louder than other stations. Also WIBW has a bad hiss in the left channel. I don't watch it much since I get channel 44 OTA.

Has anyone ever applied for and been granted waivers from KTMJ to obtain Fox HD programming from either Dish or Directv?

If so, did you have the Sat co. petition KTMJ for the waiver, or did you contact the station yourself?

TIA,
Bish

I have VOOM and am wanting to get the KC HD Locals... I live in the 17th and Fairlawn area.... What kind of antenna and booster will allow me to do this? If I am correct then I think Topeka has 2 HD stations (CBS and NBC) and KC has them all (FOX, ABC, CBS and NBC)....

I have a channel master now but will upgrade the antenna if needed...

Thanks in advance!

I live just west of 29th and Fairlawn and have had no luck picking up Kansas City stations. However, I only have an indoor antenna. A co-worker who lives east of Croco Rd does pick up ABC from Kansas City. FOX in KC is low power so you will have no luck picking them up.

Topeka also has PBS in HD on channel 23.1.

Ok thanks.... I was hoping to get ABC HD and FOX HD for football season...

You can get ABC in a digital format here in Topeka; unfortunately they are only broadcasting at low power and in 480i. Their stated plans are to be in HD by the end of the year.
KTMJ has announced no plans and have not even applied for a digital license as far as we know.
WDAF is only broadcasting in low power, and can only be received via an OTA antenna within approximately 10 miles of its transmission tower per reports. Hopefully when they go to full power, there is a chance of being able to receive a signal here, IF you have a good, large and directional antenna.
Bish

I currently have VOOM with their standard antenna mounted on my roof and receive NBC, CBS, PBS from Topeka in HD and ABC from Topeka in digital. I also receive ABC in HD from K.C. I live about a mile northeast of 29th and Croco. I have also heard the same things about the other KC stations being so weak that most of K.C. can't even pick them up.

We just replaced our upscaler card for SDI-HD. We had to use a
1080i 16x9 up converter until we received the new card. We are back
to up converting our SD 4:3 and passing network in 1080i 16:9. We did
have some positive feedback on the 16:9 but most feedback was negative for
users that did not like the artifacts and so called “screen stretching”. We will
be upgrading our antenna in June and will be installing Dolby 5.1E too.

:)

Originally posted by wibw13
We will
be upgrading our antenna in June and will be installing Dolby 5.1E too.

:)

Thanks for the update. When you say the above, does that include a power increase also?

Yes, from 93ERP to around 200ERP

Yes, from 93ERP to around 200ERP

Very nice.

Originally posted by wibw13
We just replaced our upscaler card for SDI-HD. We had to use a
1080i 16x9 up converter until we received the new card. We are back
to up converting our SD 4:3 and passing network in 1080i 16:9. We did
have some positive feedback on the 16:9 but most feedback was negative for
users that did not like the artifacts and so called “screen stretching”. We will
be upgrading our antenna in June and will be installing Dolby 5.1E too.

:)

I am very dissappointed that you have decided not to continue to upconvert your SD programming to a 16:9 format. It not only looked great but is far better for most digital displays in that with the screen 'full', there is no chance for 'burn-in' on those displays prone to it, (especially plasmas). The stretching 'artifacts' were minimal at best, and were probably worse for those individuals whose sets are a native 4:3 ratio. Since most digital sets sold in the last year, (and hence the majority of digital sets therefore in people's homes), are now using the 'widescreen', 16:9 ratio, it only makes sense for you to broadcast all of your programming in that format.

There were some video dropouts noticeable initially, however these decreased dramatically over time. There was a slight A/V sync issue, but that also could have been easily addressed. I hope that you will re-consider this decision. Otherwise WIBW are setting the standard for all other Topeka stations to follow; keep up the great work. We appreciate it!!
Bish

Not to include peoples personal lives in this forum, but I was getting ready to email Fox 43 about their Royals schedule for this upcoming season, and noticed that our friend, Jeff Groves, formerly of WIBW is now chief engineer at KTMJ. So maybe he is getting them in gear for going digital. I know he was a big part of the WIBW digital beginning.

It's great to see a WIBW representative on the forum! Thumbs up to WIBW for doing a useful multicast and keeping an HD game on the HD channel, but was anyone else finding the W. Virginia - Wake Forest game nearly unwatchable due to break-ups, etc. I had freezing, blocking, and sometimes an eventual black screen. I don't know it it was related to the multicast or a problem with Cox. Normally the channel is pretty darn stable.

Mine was perfect. Your signal may be weak?

Thank you channel 13 for the information. You are, as always, the leader. At the risk of sounding stupid, what is dolby 5.1E ? Steve

There is discrete channel soundtracks encoded to the AC-3 bit stream so that the sound is heard through the five main speakers and a sub-woofer. Each speaker is independent of the others and has it's own track. The result is the greatest degree of realism that can currently be found. This audio format comes in two basic varieties, Dolby 5.1 and DTS Six Channel.
CBS currently is using 5.1E

Watching the NCAA tourney on Sunflower Broadband in Lawrence, I now realize that I've never heard anything from my center channel or surrounds when watching programming on WIBW. It's just 2 channel stereo. Interestingly, both the digital guide and my receiver indicate that it's 5.1, but three speakers are silent. The mix is perfect (center & surrounds) on the three KC stations (NBC, ABC, FOX), and all of the premiums. WIBW has never had anything but 2.0. What's up?

I receive WIBW DT off air. On network programing I also receive only the LF and RF channels even though my Denon shows I'm receiving 6.1. I can switch to channel 5 DT off air (CBS) out of Kansas City and watch the same program and receive a 6.1 display on my Denon and hear sound out of all channels. Does anyone else have this problem? I am receiving of air signals through a Hughes Direct TV HD receiver. Thanks, Steve.

We have not updated our Dolby 5.1 yet as you can see from the threads above. In June
We will be doing that. CBS changed its format from Dolby D AC3 to Dolby E. So our
Equipment became obsolete. I understand your frustration. I will let everyone know when
The upgrade is complete. Mean while set your TV to Pro-logic and let it do the channel
separation. This will reduce echo and other problems. Thanks for watching!!

Originally posted by wibw13
Mean while set your TV to Pro-logic and let it do the channel
separation. This will reduce echo and other problems. Thanks for watching!!

Out of curiosity, why does the signal tell my receiver that it is a getting a 5.1 feed when it really isn't? If the receiver thinks it's receiving a 5.1 feed, it won't let me use Pro Logic.

Has anyone had any recent information come their way re: KTMJ and any signs of digital tranmission in the near future?

They really are missing the boat here regarding HDTV, especially since there are very good FOX network shows that are in HD.

I think there are several of us on the forum who have tried to email and/or call them. To my knowledge no one has ever even received so much as a brush off reply, much less a real answer. If you can't tell, I'm pretty frustrated with them too.

Good news, we will install our new Dolby 5.1E unit sooner than we expected. We are aiming for the second week in May. Anyone having reception issues? I found a cool website that was very interesting. http://www.krohe.com/top_tv_rcpt.htm

WIBW13,
Thanks for the link;it was excellent reading.
Bish

Originally posted by wibw13
Good news, we will install our new Dolby 5.1E unit sooner than we expected. We are aiming for the second week in May. Anyone having reception issues? I found a cool website that was very interesting. http://www.krohe.com/top_tv_rcpt.htm

Is that your website? I know the krohe.com was somehow associated with Gary Krohe who used to be a KTMJ. It is a great read for those in Topeka. I cannot imagine how hard it is to be an engineer in the Topeka market, and trying to serve the 40,000 people in Manhattan(cable makes it easeir).

My name is Gary Krohe. The site Mark so graciously posted is my corporate site. I do consulting for different stations in half a dozen markets in the midwest.
I've been a Chief Engineer since 1980 at KSNT. Since then at KTKA in the early 80's and at KMCI in Lawrence for 14 years. I recently did a short stint at KTMJ as their Chief until their new studio was completed. I've been looking in here for a year or so but have been a bit reluctant to post until now. I just wanted to introduce myself and thank Marc again for posting the link to the reception primer. I may be able to shed some light on general reception issues but for station specific questions those should be addressed to the station directly.

Good to have you Gary. I hope you will accept an apology for anything that was said while you were at KTMJ. I am sure you can understand the frustration in the lack of responses from them.

Hope you will be an active participant.

Gary,
Welcome and thanks for your website; it's very informative.
Given the info I learned there, I consider myself lucky that I can pick up all of my local Topeka digital stations just using a Silver Sensor indoor antenna, and without having to move it around. BTW, I live in SW Topeka.
Bish

In Meriden, I've been trying to get KMBC 7-1 to get ABC in HD... tried the UFO-type antenna from RS, then a full-size monster, no luck... but simple rabbit ears taped to the bay window facing east get watchable reception on my DirecTV HR10-250. Hooray! Hopefully 49 will get on the ball soon so I don't have to leave these up forever!

Good new our Dolby 5.1 E is on the air. Let me know how it sounds.

Hopefully 49 will get on the ball soon so I don't have to leave these up forever!

Change may soon be in the air at KTKA 49. Cross your fingers.

Originally posted by wibw13
Good new our Dolby 5.1 E is on the air. Let me know how it sounds.

This is great news! I heard the center channel loud and clear with a good mix last night during CSI: Miami... earlier than you had promised. I don't normally watch NCIS, but I checked it out tonight to see how the 5.1 sounded, but didn't notice any center channel sound. I don't know what kind of quality I should expect from that show, though. Based on CSI last night, I'm excited!

I'm watching on Sunflower in Lawrence. WIBW has had good quality and reliabilty lately and it's greatly appreciated. Keep up the good work.

Originally posted by wibw13
Good new our Dolby 5.1 E is on the air. Let me know how it sounds.

On Tuesday night, The Amazing Race was coming thru as 5.1. I assume that this show is not in 5.1 and the signal from WIBW or CBS is just flagged as 5.1. Should it be this way?

If the network doesn't show the surround 5.1 logo at the beginning of the
show it will be in 2 channel stereo but flagged as 5.1 Thanks for question.

Thanks for the answer.

There is a notice from Cox in today's Wichita Eagle that a number of digital cable lineup changes will become effective June 30. One of those is the addition to the HDTV tier of Universal HD. That confirms a rumor I recently heard concerning its addition in that same timeframe to our lineup here in Topeka.

Unfortunately, NFL Network is also being added but not in HD.

UPDATE: Just confirmed with Cox that the Wichita changes will be identical to what happens in Topeka.

Any network additions? Like NBC? or FOX?

Any network additions? Like NBC? or FOX?

No, not yet. I believe the hangup with the local Fox affiliate is still nontechnical in nature and neither side is budging thus far. I'm not sure anything will happen with KSNT until ownership gives up on USDTV.

Well this is mainly for KS bugeater.....The UHF antenna from RS won't work for VHF hi band which is what KMBC channel 7 is....However that antenna will work nicely from Meridan for either the UHF channels in K.C. or in Topeka. UHF channels are 14 thru 69... If you want to use an outside antenna for KMBC-HD a VHF antenna will work nicely. And you'll also get 4,5,9 with it too. VHF is actually two bands VHF-lo is 2 thru 6 and VHF- hi is 7 thru 13.

Wow! The 5.1 on WIBW sounds great on CSI: New York tonight. I am watching on Sunflower Cable in Lawrence. Thanks for the upgrade.

Originally posted by Gojhawks
Wow! The 5.1 on WIBW sounds great on CSI: New York tonight. I am watching on Sunflower Cable in Lawrence. Thanks for the upgrade.

Agreed. That was excellent. Same provider.

Change may soon be in the air at KTKA 49. Cross your fingers.

An announcement has now been made concerning the sale of KTKA to the World Company in Lawrence.

From the Lawrence Journal-World website:
Free State Communications LLC, a newly created Lawrence company, has reached agreement to acquire KTKA-TV, Topeka's Channel 49.

The Federal Communications Commission Monday accepted an application to assign the broadcast license to Free State Communications. Final FCC approval is expected this summer.

Free State Communications is a newly created World subsidiary. Since World also owns Sunflower Cable, I hope they'll have a strong incentive to upgrade KTKA to HD.

Let's hope, but it seems doubtfull that a new company that just bought it would pony up a big sum just to pass HD right now. We shall see.

or maybe I am just negative today....

The Topeka Capital-Journal also announced that KSNT is up for sale. Since Emmis was/is planning "over-the-air" cable, this might be a good thing for us HD lovers. Maybe a new owner will allow the station to be on COX in HD.

Originally posted by BJS188
The Topeka Capital-Journal also announced that KSNT is up for sale. Since Emmis was/is planning "over-the-air" cable, this might be a good thing for us HD lovers. Maybe a new owner will allow the station to be on COX in HD.

I would also hope they might increase power also.

Let's hope, but it seems doubtfull that a new company that just bought it would pony up a big sum just to pass HD right now.

If you buy a sinking boat you'd better be prepared to put some money into it.

From today's Capitol-Journal:
Ann Brill, dean of the journalism school at The University of Kansas, said Dolph C. Simons, chairman of the World Co., has a history of putting money back into properties and making them better. The World's convergence of online, television and print properties has become a model for other media all over the world, she said.

"They've been winning awards and setting trends," she said. "It will be fascinating to watch what they do with this station. It's not going to be business as usual. I expect innovation and overall good for the audience."

That seems a little over the top, but I can't believe they won't offer KTKA in HD, especially when Sunflower Cable has HD offerings.

I have said it before, but if they want me to watch their programming, they need to upgrade to HD. This season the only ABC programs I watched were NYPD Blue, Alias and Lost. NYPD and Alias because I have been watching them for year and Lost just because it sounded interesting. I skipped MNF most of the time.

And I only watched KC HD ABC for the same reason.:D

Originally posted by notreally
And I only watched KC HD ABC for the same reason.:D

Yea, but you are one of them east side county folk that can pick that station up. I am a west side city folk that can't.:D

WIBW13,

A co-worker noticed that The Young and the Restless was in HD today. He said that in the passed when he checked that it was in SD on WIBW-DT (he said that he has not checked for a while). Is this something new or have you been doing it for a while now?

Anybody been able to contact KTMJ recently, or are they still ignoring their best customers; i.e. those of us in the forefront of the HDTV conversion process? I'd certainly like to know their definitive plans for digital transmission in the near future.
Bish

Cox in Topeka has turned on 5c......

Cox in Topeka has turned on 5c......

On all channels or just premium?

I don't use Cox, but what is 5c?
Bish

Ah, copy protection I believe.
Bish

sorry, just checked this thread....

Haven't checked to see if it's on for all channels...but HD ones for sure.

Today is the third annivasary of this thread and where are we today. From my mind here are my thoughts. Feel free to add to or correct any info.

WIBW: HD, 5.1 sound, going high power as we speak, provides CBS HD programming and does a very good job at switching at the correct times. I give them an A.

KSNT: HD, 5.1 sound, I have no idea what power they are at, provides NBC HD programming and have gotten a lot better at switching. I give them a B+.

KTKA: SD, mono (at least on my equipment), no HD at all. I give them a D-. Hopefully new owners will get them changed over in a hurry.

KTWU: HD plus one sub channel. I don't watch PBS so I can't give much info here.

KTMJ: No digital, No HD. I know that they are low power and don't have to be digital yet, but I still give them an F. (plus their sound sucks on DIRECTV).

COX: Provides CBS, PBS, HBO, SHOWTIME, STARZ!, INHD1, INHD2, Discovery and ESPN (PBSKids). I don't have their service so I can't give a score. I would probably have to lower them a grade because they don't have a deal with NBC yet. If they could provide an out of market signal for ABC and FOX, I would have them

Any comments?

I think you've summed things up very well.
WIBW are the obvious leader followed somewhat by KSNT.
KTKA told me late last year that their plans were to be broadcasting in HD by this year's end; God let's hope so.
KTMJ are the most frustrating in that we've heard of no plans for them to begin broadcasting digitally, let alone in HD. This is a huge shame as there are many decent things on the Fox network worth watching in HD; (24; House; NFL, etc.). The worst problem with them is their complete lack of concern for their viewers. I have contacted them multiple times re: a waiver for Directv to send me the Fox HD feed until such time as KTMJ begins broadcasting in HD, and they have just ignored me.
WTKU has an excellent HD feed, even though I totally disagree with the multi-casting they do on the one sub-channel.
I don't use Cox, as I use Directv and OTA for local HD channels. I wonder if the HD feed from Cox is better quality than those sent from Directv; especially HBO, Showtime, DiscoverHD, etc? Anyone know?
Bish

WIBW.com is showing that WIBW-HD is moving to channel 612 on COX cable. COX cable is showing that Universal HD is "coming soon". I wonder what other changes are coming? COX uses have any new information?

The Cox website shows Universal HD appearing on Channel 624. The non-HD NFL Network will be on Channel 261, one channel after College Sports Television. I don't really care about any of the other changes.

http://www.cox.com/Kansas/digitalcable/cityinfo.asp?city=Topeka

Is KSNT bumping up power by the July 1 deadline does anyone know?

Hey, helpful WIBW guy--

Tonight, CSI: NY was analog with the annoying weather bug filling up one quarter of the already reduced 4:3 screen. Perhaps forgivable if it was a lifesaving message during a dangerous situation, but really... a thunderstorm watch? In Kansas? And not even in Shawnee or any adjacent counties? Yawn. I stopped watching.

Does WIBW have a policy about weather bugs and flipping the HD switch? The KC forum has noted that the weather bugs don't work in HD yet. KMBC inserts a small note in the corner: "Severe Weather Alert. Tune to KMBC Analog for More Information". They are able to broadcast that in HD. Do you have that option?

Just curious. Thanks.

Brian in Lawrence on Sunflower

Ran down to the HDTV this morning and checked out the new channels since they weren't there at midnight. Universal HD is at 624 and I set the DVR to record Karen Sisco at 3 p.m.

For the last two days I have not been able to lock on WIBW 13.1. The receiver seems to start locking (at about 70% signal strength), but then I get the screen that says "no digital signal detected". All other local digital stations come in OK. I use a Dish Network 942 OTA receiver, I live about 2 miles W of downtown Topeka. Any ideas what is going on?

Thanks,

Gianfranco

For the last two days I have not been able to lock on WIBW 13.1. The receiver seems to start locking (at about 70% signal strength), but then I get the screen that says "no digital signal detected". All other local digital stations come in OK. I use a Dish Network 942 OTA receiver, I live about 2 miles W of downtown Topeka. Any ideas what is going on?

Thanks,

Gianfranco

It's off currently-- and fairly regularly-- on Sunflower Cable in Lawrence. I'm getting used to it. The times when it works, it's like a special treat. Enjoy those times. Good times. Just tell yourself that it's new technology and they're getting used to it, too. That's what I do.

WIBW seems to be back on the air. There signal strength does not seem to be any better than before.

It turns out that they were having PSIP Generator problems.

Yesterday's Wichita Eagle reported that, according to the KSNW general manager, over the next four to six weeks several potential buyers will tour the Emmis stations that are on the block. I assume our own KSNT would be included in that group since it's for sale. He expects a buyer to be determined within 8 to 12 weeks.

Over a month and nothing? Is all of Topeka comfy and satisfied? Good, I guess.

I sure as hell am not satisfied! I'm in Manhattan with Topeka channels, though, so I don't know if that counts for your question ;) . I think it's absolutely ridiculous that we're starting another football season without HD Fox and/or ABC! I keep hoping Cox figures out a way to bring us the Wichita feeds, but I don't see it happening. Speaking of Cox, they could stand to step it up as well. I'm not impressed with the addition of Universal, as I have yet to watch anything on there.

I thought that I was pissed at Directv's paltry HD line-up, and the pathetic bit rate that they are transmitting; but Cox here in Topeka still doesn't have NBC HD yet, and as you say still no ABC and FOX HD here in Topeka. Guess I'll still stay with Directv for a while longer.
Bish

Saturday, WIBW wasn't passing CBS' HD feed of the PGA tournament. A quick call to the WIBW newsroom, a transfer to master control, and I was talking to a guy who didn't realize that the feed was in HD. He asked if I was watching an HD TV. He flipped the switch while I was on the phone with him and asked if that was any better. He was friendly. It was magical.

So, try that process if you believe the flip hasn't been switched. There's always someone working in the newsroom who will tranfer you to a person who can push buttons and flip switches.

Bad news for most everyone. Emmis has announced the sale of nine of their 16 television stations. KSNT and KSNW are among the seven stations that will remain under Emmis ownership. Emmis made the announcement this morning.

If I must find a silver lining in this, I'll continue to have use for my OTA receiver even if I can't use my Cox DVR on it.

There is a rumor that COX in Omaha was going to start offering TNT-HD next month. Anyone in Topeka hear anything if Topeka is going to offer it?

Hey everyone...I've been a reader here for a while, and thought I'd put a post out there and participate.

I'm in Manhattan, KS in a 3 story brick apartment building. Obviously this isn't good for recieving Topeka stations OTA, but I thought I'd try, here's what I've got:

WIBW-DT: Very strong signal on a set top antenna w/35db variable preamp. It doesn't give a percentage, but the bar is probably 70% of the way across. Really impressive, actually.

KTWU-DT: Picked it up once, along with 11-2. Not strong at all.

KTKA-DT: Stops on channel 48 for a long time, as if it is trying to pull in a signal and is just not strong enough.

No other clues to stations really stick out in my testing. I'd really like to pull in KSNT-DT, since they actually pass NBC HD content on. I tried locating the antenna to the attic, with no luck. It did make WIBW-DT stronger, but wasn't enough to pull in anything else.

How do other people around Manhattan do? Has anyone else done any experiments with recieving the digital stations over the air? I thought it might be interesting to compare notes and tips with each other.

Edit: After further research, I see exactly why WIBW works so well. It is a good 15-20 miles closer to Manhattan than any of the other towers.

Edit2: After repositioning the antenna in the room some more, I am now able to reliably recieve KTWU-DT as well, at around 70% signal strength, the same as WIBW-DT. My method for measuring the signal strength is probably not a good metric however, because I believe the preamp in the set top antenna probably throws that measurement off.

Hello,

I've been lurking on this board for quite some time now reading your posts. I've been in Topeka for about a year with the HDTV flustration a lot of you have had. I've been using a Silver Sensor all this time and pulling in KTWU always, KSNT most of the time, and WIBW sometimes. I live on the east side of Burnett's Mound which seriously impairs line of sight for RF transmissions.

Recently I decided to stick my silver sensor out on my front stairs pointing toward KC just to see what I could pick up. Suprisingly without any preamp I was able to pick up KMCI, KSHB, KCWE, & KPXE quite well. KCPT, KMBC, & KCTV I picked up once or twice.

In the past I've just let my whole HD quest go by the way side since I travel for a living. I've now decided to get a bit more involved and go for an outdoor antenna. The problem now is getting it installed hence the reason I've decided to speak after so long.

I would ask you all for contact information on people in Topeka who do OTA antenna installations. Did you have them install yours? and if so are you pleased? Also anybody you would stay away from?

Thanks gents, I appreciate the information.

-HiDefAutomation

I recently bought at Channel Master 4228 and 7777 preamp. I haven't yet installed them on my roof but have them sitting on my front steps pointing toward KC. Before setting it on the front stops I temporarily placed in on the edge of my roof on the back side of my house to see what I could get. Below you will see both my KC stats and Topeka stats.

The Topeka stations don't have w/preamps values because the antenna is now sitting on my steps pointing toward KC with my house in between the Topeka antennas and I can only sometimes pick up KTWU. (Reflections I'm sure of since every time a car drive in front of my house it goes out) Soon it will go on the roof where I know I'll be able to get KTWU, KSNT at near 100 probably and hopefully WIBW. I've been reading the KC posts and found the information quoted below from the WDAF website FAQ so hopefully soon we'll be able to get FOX HD.

-------------W/O PREAMP W/PREAMP
KMBC-DT 85 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KCTV-DT 86 (LOCKED) 94 (LOCKED)
WDAF-DT 0 (NO LOCK) 38-42 (NO LOCK)
KMCI-DT 89 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KSHB-DT 85 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KCPT-DT 0-81 (RARELY) 89 (LOCKED)
KPXE-DT 85 (LOCKED) 97 (LOCKED)
KCWE-DT 89 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KSMO-DT 82 (MOSTLY) 89 (LOCKED)

WIBW-DT 40 (NO LOCK)
KTWU-DT 97 (LOCKED)
KSNT-DT 90 (LOCKED)

DTV Update (July 05)

WDAF’s DTV antenna has recently been relocated to the 650 ft. level on our main tower. From our tower at 3030 Summit, our new low power coverage on Channel 34 is approx. 30 miles. WDAF welcomes hearing from viewers that can receive our signal with an off-air antenna.

HIGH POWER DIGITAL TELEVISION

Within the next few months, we will be installing a new DTV antenna on top of our main tower at 3030 Summit which is approx. 1200 feet and increasing our power from 1.1 kW to 1000 kW. WDAF plans on offering full service high power digital television on Channel 34 by the end of September, 2005. Thank you for your patience and for being a loyal viewer.

Just thought I would let you all know my results to hopefully give you all a brighter outlook on Topeka HD coverage. All the KC stations are at full power except for WDAF. From where I live (on the west side of Topeak) all the KC transmitters are 61.3 - 68.0 miles away (according to antennaweb) which is well within the range to pick up DTV. Keep the faith. Back to watching the Raiders vs. Patriots on KMBC 720p. :D

-HiDefAutomation

I've had some problems getting WIBW-DTV in Rossville so I played with where my antenna pointed. When it's pointed to Topeka from north of Rossville I get channel 43 ok. But with the antenna there WIBW won't lock all the time even though there seems to be plenty of signal. I get over 70 on the TV's bar display. I turn it South and all the DTV stations are ok but I can't get a good 43 picture. I asked buddy of mine who's also got a DTV set and he said that he'd heard channel 43 was kinda jamming 44 since their transmitter was off frequency. I can see that if two stations are next to one another it may be bad but can this be possible? Does anyone on this forum have a good answer? How can I get CBS in HD and still get Fox? I called the fox guys in Topeka and they've never called me back, have you guys had this too? Why is it so darn hard to get someone to help with over the air TV?

Thanks

I recently bought at Channel Master 4228 and 7777 preamp. I haven't yet installed them on my roof but have them sitting on my front steps pointing toward KC. Before setting it on the front stops I temporarily placed in on the edge of my roof on the back side of my house to see what I could get. Below you will see both my KC stats and Topeka stats.

The Topeka stations don't have w/preamps values because the antenna is now sitting on my steps pointing toward KC with my house in between the Topeka antennas and I can only sometimes pick up KTWU. (Reflections I'm sure of since every time a car drive in front of my house it goes out) Soon it will go on the roof where I know I'll be able to get KTWU, KSNT at near 100 probably and hopefully WIBW. I've been reading the KC posts and found the information quoted below from the WDAF website FAQ so hopefully soon we'll be able to get FOX HD.

-------------W/O PREAMP W/PREAMP
KMBC-DT 85 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KCTV-DT 86 (LOCKED) 94 (LOCKED)
WDAF-DT 0 (NO LOCK) 38-42 (NO LOCK)
KMCI-DT 89 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KSHB-DT 85 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KCPT-DT 0-81 (RARELY) 89 (LOCKED)
KPXE-DT 85 (LOCKED) 97 (LOCKED)
KCWE-DT 89 (LOCKED) 95 (LOCKED)
KSMO-DT 82 (MOSTLY) 89 (LOCKED)

WIBW-DT 40 (NO LOCK)
KTWU-DT 97 (LOCKED)
KSNT-DT 90 (LOCKED)



Just thought I would let you all know my results to hopefully give you all a brighter outlook on Topeka HD coverage. All the KC stations are at full power except for WDAF. From where I live (on the west side of Topeak) all the KC transmitters are 61.3 - 68.0 miles away (according to antennaweb) which is well within the range to pick up DTV. Keep the faith. Back to watching the Raiders vs. Patriots on KMBC 720p. :D

-HiDefAutomation

Thanks for your information.
i've had a 4228 for over a year and it's still in the box since I thought that there would be no way I'd be able to pick up the KC stations. Now I'll buy the 7777 pre-amp and see what I can receive. I'm on the west side of Topeka, and the 4228 will have to go in my attic due to home owner's assoc. rules, and I don't want to retain a divorce attorney. If only I could get the K. City Fox station I'd be very happy, since KTMJ refuses to allow Directv waivers for HD reception, and they've made no plans re: moving to digital/HD. Once I can receive Fox from K. City, KTMJ has lost a viewer, through their own refusal to help their local viewers obtain HDTV.
Bish

Thanks for your information.
i've had a 4228 for over a year and it's still in the box since I thought that there would be no way I'd be able to pick up the KC stations. Now I'll buy the 7777 pre-amp and see what I can receive. I'm on the west side of Topeka, and the 4228 will have to go in my attic due to home owner's assoc. rules, and I don't want to retain a divorce attorney. If only I could get the K. City Fox station I'd be very happy, since KTMJ refuses to allow Directv waivers for HD reception, and they've made no plans re: moving to digital/HD. Once I can receive Fox from K. City, KTMJ has lost a viewer, through their own refusal to help their local viewers obtain HDTV.
Bish

The government created the Telecommunications act of 1996 which preempts all HOA agreements on the installation of DBS & OTA antenna. Refer to the link provided.
http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html

That should take care of the HOA agreement allowing you to install your antenna outside. :D Run it by the HOA and see what they have to say. It really shouldn't matter what they have to say. Their hands are tied by this law.

Just a side note WDAF tentatively will be full power at the end of the month.

-HiDefAutomation

Just thought I would post this in case it might help some of you in pointing your antennas. From reading various forums I've seen people indicate that antennaweb.com isn't always correct.

I've used Google Earth (a really sweet free program:D) and mapped the locations of all the Topeka & Kansas City DTV transmitters. If you open the attached Topeka.&.Kansas.City.Antennas.kmz file using Google Earth it will plot the location of all the Topeka & KC antennas. (The .kmz file was zipped since this board doesn't allow the .kmz file extension for uploads) When it's opened it will put a folder in your "Temporary Places" folder called Topeka & Kansas City Antennas. You can then right click on that folder and save it to the "My Places" section to save it permanently. You can then search for your own home address using the "Fly To" feature and it will plot your house.

Expanding the Topeka & Kansas City Antennas folder you will find separate folders for the Topeka Stations Antennas & Kansas City Stations Antennas. Within each of these folders you will see an entry for each of the stations. There you can hide or select them individually. Double clicking on any single station listed within the group will automatically fly you to that stations antenna location. Double clicking on the group will zoom to show you all the stations within that folder. Once you've searched for your home address you can right click on the entry for your home and save it to the "My Places" section. If you drag and drop your home location into the Topeka & Kansas City Antennas folder and double click on that folder it will zoom to show you an overall view of all the stations antennas and your home. From there you can get a better perspective of where the antennas are located in relation to your house. If you're only concerned about the Topeka market then you can drag your home into the Topeka Stations Antennas folder and by double clicking only on the Topeka Stations Antennas folder it will zoom your house and the Topeka antennas giving you a overview of only that and not the KC antennas

I'm fairly certain these plottings are correct. I took the coordinates from the FCC's antenna structure registrations for these stations. I could be wrong though.

Google Earth can be downloaded here. http://earth.google.com/ There are many more things you can do using Google Earth. It was used quite a bit post Hurricane Katrina by media outlets. You will see how in the link.

-HiDefAutomation

Edit- The attached file has been updated to correct a problem with the KSHB & KCWE antenna placement.

I have corrected a problem with the placement of KSHB & KCWE antenna placement. If you download the newly uploaded .kmz file above it will correct its placement.

Looks like you got them spot on. If you zoom enough, you can actually see the type of tower they have on most of them except for WIBW. Pretty cool.

thanks!

I've had some problems getting WIBW-DTV in Rossville so I played with where my antenna pointed. When it's pointed to Topeka from north of Rossville I get channel 43 ok. But with the antenna there WIBW won't lock all the time even though there seems to be plenty of signal. I get over 70 on the TV's bar display. I turn it South and all the DTV stations are ok but I can't get a good 43 picture. I asked buddy of mine who's also got a DTV set and he said that he'd heard channel 43 was kinda jamming 44 since their transmitter was off frequency. I can see that if two stations are next to one another it may be bad but can this be possible? Does anyone on this forum have a good answer? How can I get CBS in HD and still get Fox? I called the fox guys in Topeka and they've never called me back, have you guys had this too? Why is it so darn hard to get someone to help with over the air TV?

Thanks

Good luck getting a response. We drove through Topeka Sunday and I saw the Fox 43 studios, and I told my wife I should go down there and kick some ass.

I don't really have a good answer for you other than don't waste time waiting on a response from them.

I sent a message to the new owners of KTKA and did not hear back from them.

I sent a message to the new owners of KTKA and did not hear back from them.

That's what's wrong with these rules governing local TV stations. We can only get KTKA for our ABC, so it doesn't matter if they listen to us or not, we have to watch them if we want to watch Lost, or any other ABC show.

Why should they care....

I recently sent an email to Mike Caudle the Chief Engineer at KTKA asking how the transition to true HDTV, (instead of the current low power 480i), was progressing. He replied that equipment is being received and they hope to still be at full 720p by the end of the year.

As for KTMJ, they are the worst anti-customer company I've ever dealt with. I have emailed multiple times to the owners on down without receiving any kind of reply. I even sent a letter to the station manager and included a stamped, return addressed envelope, and still no response. As soon as WDAF in K. City goes full power, I'm going to ensure that I can receive their digital signal, come what may. I'll never watch KTMJ again at that point.
Bish

Well just an update on the KSNT-DT situation. KSNT-DT is still at low power. Over the next 2 months they're changing their antenna and transmission line along with a few other bits and bobs. With the new antenna, which has higher gain and higher placement on the tower they plan on covering 95% of their population before November sweeps. (November 3 - November 30, 2005) :)

-HiDefAutomation

I recently sent an email to Mike Caudle the Chief Engineer at KTKA asking how the transition to true HDTV, (instead of the current low power 480i), was progressing. He replied that equipment is being received and they hope to still be at full 720p by the end of the year.

As for KTMJ, they are the worst anti-customer company I've ever dealt with. I have emailed multiple times to the owners on down without receiving any kind of reply. I even sent a letter to the station manager and included a stamped, return addressed envelope, and still no response. As soon as WDAF in K. City goes full power, I'm going to ensure that I can receive their digital signal, come what may. I'll never watch KTMJ again at that point.
Bish

I beleive it when I see it. KTKA (including Mike Caudle) has been saying end of the year for a couple of years now.

I got into LOST last season when I had HD from Canada (no longer have it), so I'll continue to watch it on KTKA but that is the only ABC program I'll watch until they go HD.

The last few days, my signal strength from WIBW has been lower than normal. Anyone else having a problem?

I believe it when I see it. KTKA (including Mike Caudle) has been saying end of the year for a couple of years now.

I am hopeful that the pending change in ownership will mean it actually happens this time.

Well just an update on the KSNT-DT situation. KSNT-DT is still at low power. Over the next 2 months they're changing their antenna and transmission line along with a few other bits and bobs. With the new antenna, which has higher gain and higher placement on the tower they plan on covering 95% of their population before November sweeps. (November 3 - November 30, 2005) :)

-HiDefAutomation

I would hope that if they plan on covering 95%, that would have to include Manhattan???

We are not luck enough to be able to get another DMA's stations floating over this far. Fingers crossed!

Anyone notice the new WIBW 13 logo? Kinda snazzy. Wasn't there some news of them doing local news in HD sometime???

I recently sent an email to Mike Caudle the Chief Engineer at KTKA asking how the transition to true HDTV, (instead of the current low power 480i), was progressing. He replied that equipment is being received and they hope to still be at full 720p by the end of the year.

As for KTMJ, they are the worst anti-customer company I've ever dealt with. I have emailed multiple times to the owners on down without receiving any kind of reply. I even sent a letter to the station manager and included a stamped, return addressed envelope, and still no response. As soon as WDAF in K. City goes full power, I'm going to ensure that I can receive their digital signal, come what may. I'll never watch KTMJ again at that point.
Bish

As to KTMJ, they are classified as a class A low power staion. What that means is if they won the lottery and could switch to digital, they don't have a channel allocation for digital. Hope for the analog spectrum to end 1-1-07, and then start sending cards an letters.:D

As to KTMJ, they are classified as a class A low power staion. What that means is if they won the lottery and could switch to digital, they don't have a channel allocation for digital. Hope for the analog spectrum to end 1-1-07, and then start sending cards an letters.:D

It wouldn't suprise me if they just held on throughout the end of analog, then just went dark....

Your days of waiting for FOX HD may be now over. :D WDAF-DT must have gone full power and the signal is smokin. I can receive them now at 99 out of 100 when before they never came in higher than 42. Goodbye KTMJ!

-HiDefAutomation

Your days of waiting for FOX HD may be now over. :D WDAF-DT must have gone full power and the signal is smokin. I can receive them now at 99 out of 100 when before they never came in higher than 42. Goodbye KTMJ!

-HiDefAutomation



Speak for all of you over to the East. Those of us in Manhattan will still be waiting :(

The last few days, my signal strength from WIBW has been lower than normal. Anyone else having a problem?

Sounds right to me. Maybe there is a PSIP issue on WIBW and on KTWU that causes wide signal fluctuations. Some tuners are less forgiving on errors in PSIP

Your days of waiting for FOX HD may be now over. :D WDAF-DT must have gone full power and the signal is smokin. I can receive them now at 99 out of 100 when before they never came in higher than 42. Goodbye KTMJ!

-HiDefAutomation

Relative signal strength the same in Topeka as KTKA and better than WIBW

So I should be getting a Voom box Saturday from a guy on ******s, and I am at the very least hoping to get WIBW, and KTWU. I really would like to get KTKA, and I think I might have a shot at it. I have really no expectations about getting KSNT.

It will be interesting to see what happens with KAAS out of Salina. I think there are too many hills blocking me. Sunday should be good for tropo ducting, so I might get some KC stations floating in.

I will be using the box on my SDTV since I don't have an HDTV, but it will eliminate the nasty ghosting on the analogs if I can get those stations.

Wish me luck....

It looks like KSNT found a buyer, SJL Broadcast Group. They are a former owner of KSNT from 1988 to 1995. Does anyone know anything about SJL like do they get along with cable companies and do they multicast?

http://cjonline.com/stories/093005/bus_ksnt.shtml

I got my Voom box today, and did a little messing around and right off the bat, no matter where my antenna was pointed, I got WIBW. Almost every turn of the antenna I got KTWU. There was a small window where I got KTKA, and was very glad to get it, especially for Monday night football, since ABC on Directv is pretty compressed.

I was picking up some signal on 31, not sure but I think it was a KC station. I got some signal on KSNT, but it wouldn't lock. This box has to have consistent 80 to lock, and KSNT and 31 both were hovering around 77 to 79. I will say I have my antenna diplexed with my satellite signal, so I may try to run another cable down just to see if it would be better without the diplex.

Any thoughts??

So I should be getting a Voom box Saturday from a guy on ******s, and I am at the very least hoping to get WIBW, and KTWU. I really would like to get KTKA, and I think I might have a shot at it. I have really no expectations about getting KSNT.

It will be interesting to see what happens with KAAS out of Salina. I think there are too many hills blocking me. Sunday should be good for tropo ducting, so I might get some KC stations floating in.

I will be using the box on my SDTV since I don't have an HDTV, but it will eliminate the nasty ghosting on the analogs if I can get those stations.

Wish me luck....

I happen to have a Voom box from back when they were still in operation. I've been quite satisfied with it thus far. The only bad thing is you don't get any program information from the PSIP data sent in the stream. They never enabled that feature in the software before they went under. As you said no lock without getting above 80. You might check the version of software on your box to see if you're on the latest released before their sale. This can have an affect on your boxes reception.

31 is KCWE-DT out of KC. If you're going to get any KC station it would probably be that one, 51 (KPXE-DT), or 34 (WDAF-DT) as their signals are probably the strongest out of KC. All 3 are 99 on my unit and I'm 63-68 miles from all the stations.

Are you using any preamp on your antenna? I have a CM7777 on my CM4228 and none of the KC stations were less than 92 last night during the storms. I was quite happy with the performance as none of the KC stations were lost all night. The only thing that would happen was a few frames of macroblocking when there was lightening.

-HiDefAutomation

Can you lock KSNT with your Voom box? I get sniffs, but it never locks. No, I am not using any pre-amps. I just have the second cheapest model of antenna at radio shack, so the UHF part is really small.
I am looking at one of these two antennas:
http://www.antennasdirect.com/DB8_HD_Antenna.html
http://www.antennasdirect.com/91XG_HDTV_Antenna.html

I think the DB8 will possibly be better for 17 Fox out of Salina, since the antenna would have to point through a tree. I should get it, but the signal bounces so much.

I finally figured out that analogs will register on the tune your antenna part. So, our low power religious station is what I was getting on 31.

thanks for the info.

I can lock onto all the Topeka stations just fine if I turn my antenna that direction and turn off the preamp. I live between 4.5-17 miles from the Topeka stations and the preamp boosts their signals too much. I've chosen to point my CM4228 toward KC since I can get ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, WB, UPN, I, & PBS there while here in Topeka we only have CBS, NBC, & PBS in HD. I'm actually adding a second antenna this week. Either a CM4221 or CM2001 w/o a preamp to get the Topeka stations. I'm just going to have to switch between the 2 using an A/B switch since disabling the preamp requires climbing on the roof. I would seriously recommend a preamp. I live 62-68 miles from the KC stations and a lot of them would come in at like 82-89 w/o the preamp. Though, with wind and rain fade there would be dropout. With the preamp none of them except for KSMO-DT come it at anything less than 92. KSMO-DT still locks at 89, up from 82 w/o preamp, but that's due to their transmission issues. People who live in KC have a hard time with KSMO-DT. You might try and purchase the Channel Master 3041DSB preamp from Lowes since you would then have the option of returning if it doesn't work for your needs.

The only reason I'm doing this 2 antenna install is because I would like the ability to see 2 NBC, CBS, & PBS stations in HD. On Sunday CBS in Topeka aired the Broncos vs. Jaguars game while at the same time CBS in KC aired the Chargers vs. Patriots game. There are times when WIBW will air KU basketball games instead of CBS Primetime programming and I would rather just switch to KCTV and watch CBS in HD instead of an SD delay at 11pm or later. The PBS stations usually don't run their telethons at the same time. When one of them is in telethon mode I can make my donation and move on to watch the PBS HD programming instead of the damn telethon. I would just rather have the flexability to pick what I want to see since they're both available for an added cost of $50.

I would seriously look at this website (http://www.hdtvprimer.com) especially this section (http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ISSUES/erecting_antenna.html) on erecting antennas. It has a huge amount of data concerning antennas and what you'll face when pointing them through a tree or near objects. It even give a comparison of the gain achieved by several commercial antennas. I would say do your homework before buying. Read through the Official Antenna Topic (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=381623) to see what others have faced. I've seen people on this board favor the CM4228 over the Antenna's Direct DB8 $99 because it has better gain and ability to receive Hi-VHF. (Plus it's only $40 from here (http://http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/4228.htm) and shipping is cheap $17 for ground shipping on that antenna and the CM7777) I can't really comment on the DB8 since I've never used it. I've just read other people opinions of it. I do however know that I get KMBC-DT 7 from KC on my CM4228 just fine even though its suppose to be a UHF only antenna. (refer to the comparison chart on hdtvprimer)

I spent about 3 weeks just doing research here and there. (I'm anal about research into things I buy :o )I've been happy thus far with everything I've selected and watch HD daily on any of the networks.

1. Buy a quality antenna from a quality manufacturer that is correct for your needs...do a little research now to save time and money later. Cheap antennas get you what you pay for.

2. Use RG-6 coax with no splices and good quality connectors no matter how far the installation run is...it has the least signal loss and is the best...enough said.

3. If your stations are in different directions or you are constantly having to "re-adjust" your antenna...get a rotor...life is to short for "re-adjustments daily". There is nothing better than being able to hit a button from your chair to make small adjustments or move the antenna anytime you feel the need.

4. The higher the antenna the better.

5. If you are going to try and pick up stations consistently with an antenna in the attic or inside the home realize that you are going to need a very strong signal from the stations to overcome loss from the antenna being inside a structure.

6. If you want to draw in distant stations you will need a pre-amp. Once again a good quality one that is correct for your needs. Do the research and save yourself time and money.

-HiDefAutomation

Do you live on the east or west side of Topeka?
Is the 4228 mounted outside and at what height, or in an attic?
TIA,
Bish

I live on the west side of Topeka by Burnett's mound. The closest major intersection is 35th & Gage. The antenna is definitely outside. It's about 27 or so feet off the ground but only 7 feet above the apex of my roof. I do have one advantage though. From my roof I can see toward KC without a single obstruction, not a tree nor house. Before I installed it on the roof I had it hanging on the front of my house, which faces KC, by a flag pole bracket and could pick several stations. The only problem then was when a car would drive by it would cause breakup. :)

-HiDefAutomation

Where did you get your 4228? I cannot find anyone here that carries it, and everyone online is out of stock? Anyone local in Topeka?

http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/4228.htm Good people!

Is it just me (or perhaps the weather) or did KSNT up power? I have been able to receive them all night. I caught the last 30 minutes of Las Vegas and Conan was just on.

Hepburn's tropo ducting forecast said there was "fair" enhancement of signal in Eastern KS last night. My setup has changed since our basement flooded, so I haven't been getting perfect signal lately from any of the Topeka stations, and I can't watch in HD for the time being, so I'm doing all recording off the DTV bird.

Hepburn's tropo ducting forecast said there was "fair" enhancement of signal in Eastern KS last night. My setup has changed since our basement flooded, so I haven't been getting perfect signal lately from any of the Topeka stations, and I can't watch in HD for the time being, so I'm doing all recording off the DTV bird.

I usually look at those images, but hadn't for yesterday, so that could have been it, thus my "weather" comment. The wierd part was it was steady. Normally when I am getting some tropo activity, it comes and goes. It was the first time I had ever gotten a solid picture on KSNT, without breakups. There were one Sunday night a few weeks ago, I was watching KMBC in HD, but KSNT wouldn't even scan in....

Must have been the weather, nothing when I was home at lunch.

Anyone have any idea how long KSNT-DT is going to be off air?

hello, no, but KTKA digital is also off the air and mr d was trying to set his tuner:D

Sorry Marty, I am getting KTKA-DT fine at my house. I am watching Texas Tech and Texas in glorious standard def.

yes it's back on. Of course KC ABC's game is also in caca def, also

Do I understand that KSNT-Channel 27 is off the air? Anyone has any ideas why and for how long?

I don't know how long KSNT will be off the air, but Doug there told me they hoped to be finished with everything, and hit their 95% coverage area by November 3. That is a week from Thursday, so who know how long it will be off, but you wouldn't think it would be the whole week and a half.

During Leno on Wednesday night, most of the screen was green with sound. They also were not switching to local commercials. You could hear the band and singer playing during the local spots. I thought maybe it was weather related. Then late Friday night the analog system was also down. They may have been working on it at the time.

Can someone tell me what channels are broadcasting in HD now and if they are powerful enough to reach Manhattan?

I would really appreciate it.

Can someone tell me what channels are broadcasting in HD now and if they are powerful enough to reach Manhattan?

I would really appreciate it.

I live off Marlatt Ave. in Manhattan, and in HD, I get WIBW, KTWU, and KAAS. So, CBS, PBS, and Fox. I also get KTKA, ABC, but in SD. Supposedly KSNT will hit Manhattan by the end of next week, and ABC is supposed to be in HD by the end of the year.

I had to upgrade antenna to get the Fox out of Salina, and it's hit or miss in Manhattan.

You movin here??

Not sure yet, just researching....(I would LOVE to, but job market doesn't seem very good)

Thanks for the info. I figured they were not all up and running yet, but they must be pretty powerful to be reaching Manhattan...that's awesome news.

Does anyone have the name of a very professional, quality Antenna installer that services the Topeka market?
I am looking to install my Channel Master 4228 in the attic above the garage for the local digital stations, (I pick them all up easily with my three indoor Silver Sensors), but then would also want a uni-directional UHF antenna pointing towards Kansas City mounted on the outside of the house, (to maximize reception), primarily for WDAF. That outside antenna could even be amplified if necessary. Both of these antennas would then be 'combined' before entering the basement where my cable distribution hub resides.
TIA for any help,
Bish

PS Does anyone know or can hazard a guess whether the 4228 in the attic space above the garage could possibly, with amplification, receive WDAF? My concern would be that the 'gain' on the amp would have to be so high, that my locals might not be picked up well. I do live on a relatively high point in SW Topeka.

Can someone report back when KSNT-DT comes back on the air?

thanks!

Does anyone have the name of a very professional, quality Antenna installer that services the Topeka market?
I am looking to install my Channel Master 4228 in the attic above the garage for the local digital stations, (I pick them all up easily with my three indoor Silver Sensors), but then would also want a uni-directional UHF antenna pointing towards Kansas City mounted on the outside of the house, (to maximize reception), primarily for WDAF. That outside antenna could even be amplified if necessary. Both of these antennas would then be 'combined' before entering the basement where my cable distribution hub resides.
TIA for any help,
Bish

PS Does anyone know or can hazard a guess whether the 4228 in the attic space above the garage could possibly, with amplification, receive WDAF? My concern would be that the 'gain' on the amp would have to be so high, that my locals might not be picked up well. I do live on a relatively high point in SW Topeka.

I'm looking to achieve the same thing! My 4228 isn't here yet, but I was thinking I'd have too much loss inside the attic. Our house has a "hip" roof, meaning that any signal has to go thru shingles, nails, etc. I tried an 8-bay old-fashioned style antenna in the attic but it didn't work all that well. My guess is that if the signal just has to go thru an exterior (probably un-insulated) wall to get to the attic above your garage, you might be able to do it.

Are you talking about using a different antenna than the 4228 for KC? I'm under the impression that the 4228 is the best for picking up UHF over long distance. Why not use the 4228 for WDAF and keep using your Sensors for Topeka?

I just sent an email to KSNT's general manager (since I don't have an addy for the engineer) asking when they'll be back in digital. Probably wouldn't hurt for all of you to do as well... let's them know there's a lot of us thinking about them. If the signal isn't missed, they might not be as likely to improve it in the future...

Just got this from KSNT's GM:

Sorry we won't be up until monday morning

Ken Selvaggi
KSNT VP/GM
(785) 582-3277
kselvaggi@ksnt.com

At least now I know not to set a timer for Sunday's NASCAR race on 27-1.

[QUOTE=KSBugeater]I'm looking to achieve the same thing! My 4228 isn't here yet, but I was thinking I'd have too much loss inside the attic. Our house has a "hip" roof, meaning that any signal has to go thru shingles, nails, etc. I tried an 8-bay old-fashioned style antenna in the attic but it didn't work all that well. My guess is that if the signal just has to go thru an exterior (probably un-insulated) wall to get to the attic above your garage, you might be able to do it.

Are you talking about using a different antenna than the 4228 for KC? I'm under the impression that the 4228 is the best for picking up UHF over long distance. Why not use the 4228 for WDAF and keep using your Sensors for Topeka?[/QUOTE)

The 4228 will do a great job for the locals, but I do not think it will have the range for WDAF, which must be 55-60 miles from me here in SW Topeka. A unidirectional small yagi type of antenna, possibly with a pre-amp will, I think, be the best choice for bringing in WDAF reliably. Further, I can place the 4228 in the attic, which will please the wife, and the small yagi should be relatively un-noticeable on the outside of the house facing east; at least I hope it will be!
Bish

The 4228 will do a great job for the locals, but I do not think it will have the range for WDAF

The 4228 works quite well at getting every KC station for me. Mine is pointed at 84° with a 7777 preamp. I watch WDAF-DT programming every week at 98/100 on my receiver. I will admit I have a clear view in that direction and the curvature of the earth is what is limiting that view. From Topeka all the KC stations are within about 7° of one another as far as line of sight is concerned. A directional antenna pointed properly should get them.

One thing I have experienced with my setup is that I can't get the Topeka stations with my antenna pointed toward KC as the Topeka transmitters are 191°-250° out and probably due to the CM4228 being good at rejecting signals from the backside. Most would say well just get a rotator but that doesn't solve another problem. The other problem I encountered I believe can be attributed to the gain of the CM4228 added to the gain of the 7777 preamp. Both devices adding gain to the signal as well as the noise. With my setup pointed toward KTWU-DT my receiver indicated that the signal was only coming in at 80/100 and would not lock. I bypassed the amp and voila 99/100 with picture. I’m 4-17 miles from the Topeka transmitters. A preamp isn’t needed and probably shouldn’t be used.

Unfortunately we live in one of those markets where of the 7 major networks, we have 6 affiliates, 4 of which broadcast DTV signals, 3 of those do HDTV, and only one at full power. I'm venturing a CM4221 w/o preamp for the Topeka stations as I would like to get all 7 networks and there are times when the programming is different even amongst the same affiliates. (Gives me options and it only costs like $60 :D ) Now only if they weren’t spread out by 70°

-HiDefAutomation

The source of my concern about the 4228 not being able to pick up the Kansas City stations is because it will have to be placed in the attic above the garage. I could use an amp on the 4228, and then it might pick WDAF up, but then the 'noise' might be so great that I won't be able to pick up my local Topeka digital stations. Hence a small, uni-directional yagi, simply to pick up WDAF might well work when combined with the 4228. I just need to find an antenna installer that really knows what they're doing.
Bish

Well KSNT-DT is back on the air! I'm picking them up my newly installed CM4221 w/o a preamp at 98/100 on my receiver without peaking up the antenna. I'm happy to say that I can now get all 13 DTV stations from both Topeka & KC. :D Hopefully everybody who wasn't able to receive KSNT-DT before can now do so.

Cross your fingers, fire up your receivers, & scan away boys!

-HiDefAutomation

Well KSNT-DT is back on the air! I'm picking them up my newly installed CM4221 w/o a preamp at 98/100 on my receiver without peaking up the antenna. I'm happy to say that I can now get all 13 DTV stations from both Topeka & KC. :D Hopefully everybody who wasn't able to receive KSNT-DT before can now do so.

Cross your fingers, fire up your receivers, & scan away boys!

-HiDefAutomation

I will be scanning at approximately 12:07 PM, and I will post results. What type of signal were you getting before?

Now if KTKA just starts to pass HD, I will be happy. :eek:

Automation....Where are you located?

I was driving down 59/4 the other day between Atchison and Topeka and there are a TON of people with antenna's pointing at both Topeka and KC, and I wondered what kind of luck they were having.

Timmy,
Previously I would get 90/100 from KSNT-DT using a CM4228, now I'm getting 98/100 using a CM4221 which is half the size.

WILDCAT,
I live in Topeka on Burnett's mound around the 35th & Gage area. I know people know live along that route and they can definitely get the KC stations. Valley Falls & Meriden are only like 55 miles from KC which is closer than I am.

-HiDefAutomation

Very happy to report here in Manhattan, I am hitting 97-98 on the signal bar on KSNT-DT.

Very happy.

Just thought I would ask some of you folks what you are using to pick up KC.

I'm currently using a UHF/VHF Combo that I bought at Radio Shack, and I'm having a lot of intermittent signal loss with it. I added a booster, and it totally screwed it up...so I'm looking into other options.

The thing is, I'm picking up KMBC-DT out of KC (which is actually VHF) without even spreading out the "VHF Fins" on this combo...so I'm wondering if I could just use a 4228 and pick up everything I'm wanting. I'm only asking because being in St. Joe, I'm about the same distance from KC as you all...and I'm dealing with living about 1 mile north of the KQ2 tower here in St. Joe.



Any thoughts?

I don't have a good measure of strength on my reciever, besides "Strong", but I also can recieve it fine here in Manhattan. I've got an antenna in the attic of my 3rd story apartment near campus.

Thanks KSNT!


Very happy to report here in Manhattan, I am hitting 97-98 on the signal bar on KSNT-DT.

Very happy.

It sounds like KSNT is doing well. I guess we need to work on KTKA now. Anyone hear any updates?

It sounds like KSNT is doing well. I guess we need to work on KTKA now. Anyone hear any updates?


Got a response from their GM today, and he is saying middle of next year. :(

I don't have a good measure of strength on my reciever, besides "Strong", but I also can recieve it fine here in Manhattan. I've got an antenna in the attic of my 3rd story apartment near campus.

Thanks KSNT!

brianm66, which antenna are you using to pull in KSNT? It's good to hear that we can actually pull in some digital stations here in Manhattan!

Is the KSNT signal a High Def widescreen signal like WIBW?

Nation, I run into you everywhere!

Is the KSNT signal a High Def widescreen signal like WIBW?

Nation, I run into you everywhere!

Yeah, KSNT is passing HD widescreen. We watched My name is Earl on there Tuesday night, and have caught Leno also. Looks good.

brianm66, which antenna are you using to pull in KSNT? It's good to hear that we can actually pull in some digital stations here in Manhattan!

Not trying to answer for Brian, but I use a Wingard PR8800, but it is roof mounted. Do you have that option?

https://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?CAT=&PROD=SPR8800

It is actually a lot more sturdy than it looks. I actually used it inside for the first night I had it, and it picked up the sations I couldn't with my radio shack antenna that was mounted on the roof.

Not trying to answer for Brian, but I use a Wingard PR8800, but it is roof mounted. Do you have that option?

It is actually a lot more sturdy than it looks. I actually used it inside for the first night I had it, and it picked up the sations I couldn't with my radio shack antenna that was mounted on the roof.

Thanks for the reply. I live in an apartment complex so roof mounting is not an option. :(

Hey guys i've read all of your guys' posts and all are very helpful with my new HDTV, but I can only get 11-1, 11-2, 11-3, 11-4, 27-1.

I know WIBW and KTKA, and our Fox channel all have Digital Channels or at least WIBW does, but i can only have an indoor receiver since my neighborhood has a law against it, or and ordinance.

Can you guys please tell me how to receive all the Topeka Channels? Or just tell me the digital channels for each?

If you can help me please tell me at (caliblue15 at gmail) Thank you guys so much!

Hey guys i've read all of your guys' posts and all are very helpful with my new HDTV, but I can only get 11-1, 11-2, 11-3, 11-4, 27-1.

I know WIBW and KTKA, and our Fox channel all have Digital Channels or at least WIBW does, but i can only have an indoor receiver since my neighborhood has a law against it, or and ordinance.

Can you guys please tell me how to receive all the Topeka Channels? Or just tell me the digital channels for each?

If you can help me please tell me at (caliblue15 at gmail) Thank you guys so much!

I use Silver Sensor type indoor antennas, and I can bring in all of the digital Topeka channels which are:

WIBW 13-1 1080i
KSNT 27-1 1080i
PBS 11-1 1080i; 11-2 480(i or p)
KABC 49-1 480i


KTMJ, (FOX), is not transmitting in a digital format, and has announced no plans to do so.
Bish

caliblue15, where are you located? I have heard good things about wingard
square shooter. Who makes Silver Sensor?

If you want real channel assignments (which is what most signal meters deal in), 13 is 44 and 49 is 48, the same way that 11 is 23 and 27 is 28. I'm in Meriden and with only rabbit ears taped to a bay window facing east I can get ABC 9 (which is 7), Fox 4 (34), CBS 5 (24), UPN 29 (31), Ind 38 (36), and "i" 50 (51), all out of KC.

If you are a homeowner, I think that there are ways around any covenants against antennas (or is that only good for satellite dishes?). Do a search here on AVS. DTV will not be denied!!! ;)

brianm66, which antenna are you using to pull in KSNT? It's good to hear that we can actually pull in some digital stations here in Manhattan!

I'm using Radio Shack's UHF only antenna, cat# 15-2160. Tried to post a link for you, but I don't have enough posts yet. It is on their website for $24.95.

It is located in the attic of my 3rd floor apartment, not very far from campus. I do have to use an amplifier on it, I'm using the mast mount amp that the local radio shack here sells. Other than that, it works great.

WIBW of course is the strongest, since it is located much closer than the others. I also get KTWU, and occasionally get KTKA (which is worthless to me, since it is SD only).

It would be really nice of Cox and KSNT would just get along and stop leaving their customers in the middle of their dispute. I like the NBC HD, but it would be really nice if I could use it with my Cox DVR.

Happy hunting, and let me know if you've got any questions, you should be good to go.

I use Silver Sensor type indoor antennas, and I can bring in all of the digital Topeka channels which are:

WIBW 13-1 1080i
KSNT 27-1 1080i
PBS 11-1 1080i; 11-2 480(i or p)
KABC 49-1 480i


KTMJ, (FOX), is not transmitting in a digital format, and has announced no plans to do so.
Bish

Well I pick up 27-1,11-1,11-2,11-3,11-4....

I cannont pick up 13-1 or 49-1, Do i just need a new indoor antenna, beacuse my neighborhood doesn't allow outdoor antennas? You email your info to caliblue15 at gmail with a com....

Well I pick up 27-1,11-1,11-2,11-3,11-4....

I cannont pick up 13-1 or 49-1, Do i just need a new indoor antenna, beacuse my neighborhood doesn't allow outdoor antennas? You email your info to caliblue15 at gmail with a com....

Indoor antennas, like the Silver Sensor, are highly directional. Antenna web pointing for locals from 66614 zip in Topeka are: 13.1-263degrees, 49.1-271 degrees, 11.1-352 degrees, 27.1 342degrees. I'm not sure of your zip, you can plug it in at www.antennaweb.org go to find an antenna. The point her is that to find 13 and 49 digital stations a directional antenna, like the Silver Sensor, needs to be pointed in a more southerly direction than 11 and 27. How much depends on your location.

Well I pick up 27-1,11-1,11-2,11-3,11-4....

I cannont pick up 13-1 or 49-1, Do i just need a new indoor antenna, beacuse my neighborhood doesn't allow outdoor antennas? You email your info to caliblue15 at gmail with a com....

Kinda depends on where you are in town?? I live just north of Marlatt ave. and I am decently high up and can get WIBW with an indoor antenna. I would imagine if you are in a "neighborhood" it might get difficult. Also, remember if you are in the south part of town, there is the KS hill that would block the general direction from you to the WIBW tower, since it is south of I-70 and not in Topeka at all, more like south of St. Mary's.

Kinda depends on where you are in town?? I live just north of Marlatt ave. and I am decently high up and can get WIBW with an indoor antenna. I would imagine if you are in a "neighborhood" it might get difficult. Also, remember if you are in the south part of town, there is the KS hill that would block the general direction from you to the WIBW tower, since it is south of I-70 and not in Topeka at all, more like south of St. Mary's.

21st and Wanamaker..... It's straight down the street.... though the hill might block it... any help?

Timmy/Brian,

Where is the KSNT tower located and how strong is the HD signal for 27.1 relative to 13.1 WIBW? I can pick up 11.1 and 13.1 flawlessly with my 4228, but cannot get any signal for the KSNT digital frequency.

I live in the state street area about one mile west of the stadium, so I know some trees and neighborhood problems might cause interference.

Another question is have you been able to pick up KAAS Fox digital out of Salina?

Timmy/Brian,

Where is the KSNT tower located and how strong is the HD signal for 27.1 relative to 13.1 WIBW? I can pick up 11.1 and 13.1 flawlessly with my 4228, but cannot get any signal for the KSNT digital frequency.

I live in the state street area about one mile west of the stadium, so I know some trees and neighborhood problems might cause interference.

Another question is have you been able to pick up KAAS Fox digital out of Salina?

WIBW is stronger. KSNT is on 24 highway just East of Silver Lake. You are searching 28 right?? I am about a mile North of the stadium, and yes, I do get KAAS. I have a rotator, do you?? because I do have to move it to get all of them. Do you get KTKA??

Timmy/Brian,

Where is the KSNT tower located and how strong is the HD signal for 27.1 relative to 13.1 WIBW? I can pick up 11.1 and 13.1 flawlessly with my 4228, but cannot get any signal for the KSNT digital frequency.

I live in the state street area about one mile west of the stadium, so I know some trees and neighborhood problems might cause interference.

Another question is have you been able to pick up KAAS Fox digital out of Salina?


I live west of campus a few blocks, and have the antenna up in the attic of my 3rd story apartment. I actually pick up KSNT and WIBW, and have trouble recieving KTWU unless I turn the antenna a bit to the south. WIBW always seems to come in nice and strong, but they are a lot closer than the others.

I've tried to get KAAS before from Salina, but never really had any luck. I recieved a very weak signal from them one night, but I think that's probably just because conditions were very good that night. I was also able to get NBC out of KC that night, all in an attic.

Good luck!

I'm really just the opposite of you guys, because i get 11-1, 11-2, 27-1, flawlessly, but can't get even a touch on WIBW 13-1 or KTKA 49-1..... I really need some help, any cheap recievers that can do the job? Or am I going to ahve to spend big money just to recieve it, or should I just go cable!
I live west of campus a few blocks, and have the antenna up in the attic of my 3rd story apartment. I actually pick up KSNT and WIBW, and have trouble recieving KTWU unless I turn the antenna a bit to the south. WIBW always seems to come in nice and strong, but they are a lot closer than the others.

I've tried to get KAAS before from Salina, but never really had any luck. I recieved a very weak signal from them one night, but I think that's probably just because conditions were very good that night. I was also able to get NBC out of KC that night, all in an attic.

Good luck!

I'm really just the opposite of you guys, because i get 11-1, 11-2, 27-1, flawlessly, but can't get even a touch on WIBW 13-1 or KTKA 49-1..... I really need some help, any cheap recievers that can do the job? Or am I going to ahve to spend big money just to recieve it, or should I just go cable!

Caliblue, if you are located at 21st & Wanamaker, your problem is that big ol' hill that is west of you. You can get 11 and 27 because their towers are basically north of you, but 13 and 49's signals are being blocked by the hill @~Arvonia Rd. I'm sorry, I don't know what to tell you other than that an aerial might help... or maybe a strong directional antenna like the Channel Master 4228.

WIBW-13 and KTKA-49 would probably not be happy to hear that their signal can't be received in the Brookfield neighborhood (=many of their marketing target).

I just use a old Voom box I bought for $50, but I would LOVE to have a HD PVR, but since I don't even have an HDTV yet, I should probably wait. I use an Winegard PR8800 antenna but I am decently high up in Manhattan, and all of the towers are east or southeast of me. Hills are really bad about blocking the signal. Do you think you could ask IT to move????

Kidding of course, but you could always call WIBW, they seem very responsive to questions such as this.

I'm really just the opposite of you guys, because i get 11-1, 11-2, 27-1, flawlessly, but can't get even a touch on WIBW 13-1 or KTKA 49-1..... I really need some help, any cheap recievers that can do the job? Or am I going to ahve to spend big money just to recieve it, or should I just go cable!

Unfortunately you won't get KTKA-DT with cable either. :mad:

Of course, until KTKA gets their HD on, the analog version cable carries would look the same as KTKA-DT (480 lines of res). Currently KTKA is getting by with the minimum allowed by law: a digital signal, but not HD.

Please, new owners of KTKA, make the switch to HD soon!

I may be wrong but I don't think the KTKA's digital signal is even in stereo. At least thr cable version is stereo.

I was about to install my never used 4228 antenna in the attic above the garage when I realized that there is no easy way to dismantle the 4228 to get it up there. Hence if anyone local would like to buy a 'new' in box Channel Master 4228, pm me with an offer.
Bish

The thread in the HDTV section reminded me that this will be my second year in a row without the Superbowl in HD. When do we start the pity party? :mad: While I'm on an HD rant, I've had HD through Cox since it was first available in the area, and I'm amazed (and yet not) that they haven't added anything significant to the lineup in 2+ years. Even if they don't control the local networks (though we should have KSNT by now), I think they could do better than PBS and Universal (aka the NBC rerun channel). I don't think I've watched one thing on Universal.

I have read that some Cox areas are getting MTV-HD when it comes out. Have any of you on Cox seen anything in your billing statement yet?

The thread in the HDTV section reminded me that this will be my second year in a row without the Superbowl in HD. When do we start the pity party? :mad: While I'm on an HD rant, I've had HD through Cox since it was first available in the area, and I'm amazed (and yet not) that they haven't added anything significant to the lineup in 2+ years. Even if they don't control the local networks (though we should have KSNT by now), I think they could do better than PBS and Universal (aka the NBC rerun channel). I don't think I've watched one thing on Universal.

Brett, I feel your pain!! What's been the holdup? Money? Are the local networks demanding more money than Cox is willing to pay to carry their channels? If I had any legit alternatives, I would cancel Cox in a heartbeat. My brother in K.C. has access to just about every HD channel through Time Warner (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, TNT HD). Very frustrating! :mad:

What's been the holdup?

Some of this I've said before, but here we go...

Nothing is going to happen with KSNT until the sale is completed and who knows what happens then. Anyone know the new owners? Emmis had some hare-brained schemes regarding HD and it was going to be a long time before they would have put KSNT-HD on Cox regardless of how much money they were offered. Those of us with OTA receivers continue to benefit from our investment on this one. :p

The old ownership at KTKA was cheap and was unwilling to make the necessary investments for HD. It should just be a matter of time before KTKA under its new ownership is in HD but it no doubt won't be soon enough, i.e. well after the Super Bowl. Since the new ownership owns a cable company, I'm sure they'll be reasonable in their negotiations with Cox.

KTMJ is the biggest question mark. They're literally a second-tier station. Cox made a major push to have Fox on in time for last year's Super Bowl but KTMJ made some nonmonetary demands that Cox thought were unreasonable. Cox was willing to help defray some of the expense for KTMJ but they stuck to their nonmonetary demands. Until KTMJ is willing to just take the money and run, no Fox in HD.

Cox carries UPN-HD in Wichita. It's my understanding that they really need a local affiliate up here to get the signal from before adding it to our lineup. Apparently, it's not as simple as just sending the HD signal from Wichita to Topeka. If there were a UPN affiliate in Topeka they would most likely already be in HD.

Some quotes from The Topeka Capital-Journal article on 12-23-05:

Dave Waters, general manager of Fox affiliate KTMJ, said the station would make a "flash switch" from analog to digital on channel 43 at the end of the transition. KTMJ also operates transmitters in Junction City, Manhattan and near Emporia, which also will need to switch.

The next Super Bowl will be on ABC, but to see it in HD viewers will need to watch the game on KMBC-DT, digital channel 7, because Topeka's ABC affiliate doesn't have the necessary equipment to transmit programs in HD. KTKA chief engineer Mike Caudle said discussions are under way at the station, which recently changed ownership, to change that.

http://cjonline.com/stories/122305/bus_digital.shtml

I noticed that the author of that article used to be program director of KTWU, but it had some good info. So basically in 2009, when they shut off analog, we will be able to get Fox in HD. I was told by someone at KTKA they could be HD by mid 2006.

Right now, I am actually pretty happy, as I get CBS, PBS, Fox, and NBC all in HD. I can also get ABC, but in SD, but it still not as bad as a compressed Directv signal. I can occasionally get KAKE out of Wichita for ABC HD, but it is not at all consistent, and when I do get it, it goes in and out alot. Probably 75% of the time, I can get KWCH out of Hutch, but since I get WIBW, I don't have a use, unless WIBW is showing a KU game and there is something I really want to watch on CBS.

I think it's sad we don't have an WB or UPN affiliate here.

Tim, do you get stereo with KTKA-DT? I only get mono sound.

I put up a bigger antenna in my attic and I can now sometimes get ABC out of Kansas City. Unfortunately it causes multipath problems for WIBW so I have to use an A/B switch. I just got a Jointenna yesterday but have not had time to play with it much. I have had no luck getting other stations from KC.

The only 'Flash Switch' we'll see from KTMJ here will in fact be a switch off!! They have made no effort to begin a transition to digital, let alone HD. Hence when the analog to digital date arrives in 2009, KTMJ will probably just turn everything off. They are pathetic, and do themselves and the Fox network a huge disservice by not investing in HD. There are many Fox shows that I'd watch, BUT when the competing networks are in HD, and KTMJ are still in 'crappo-vision', I'll watch the other channel everytime.
Bish

I know I'm not Tim, but I thought I'd jump in anyway. I only get mono sound on KTKA-DT. At least the Analog version gives you stereo sound. Talk about extreme lack of effort. I'm personally suprised someone even makes a digital transmitter that only does mono sound.

Tim, do you get stereo with KTKA-DT? I only get mono sound.

I put up a bigger antenna in my attic and I can now sometimes get ABC out of Kansas City. Unfortunately it causes multipath problems for WIBW so I have to use an A/B switch. I just got a Jointenna yesterday but have not had time to play with it much. I have had no luck getting other stations from KC.

well I'm looking at antennaes now--saw one for 99 bucks out of best buy-(outdoor) none are the specific rotor types that I've seen written about here (7777?)

Anway I live on a hill--get 4.1 (fox) out of KC occasionally--am shooting for 9.1 (abc)all with an indoor antennae. I really don't want to spend 2-4 hundred dollars for some motorized locking outdoor antennae. Anyone with experience with the best buy antennaes that king of look like a wing/foil of some sort? Or should I just breakdown and spend 2-4 hundred for one of these motorized 7777's before the superbowl.

well I'm looking at antennaes now--saw one for 99 bucks out of best buy-(outdoor) none are the specific rotor types that I've seen written about here (7777?)

Anway I live on a hill--get 4.1 (fox) out of KC occasionally--am shooting for 9.1 (abc)all with an indoor antennae. I really don't want to spend 2-4 hundred dollars for some motorized locking outdoor antennae. Anyone with experience with the best buy antennaes that king of look like a wing/foil of some sort? Or should I just breakdown and spend 2-4 hundred for one of these motorized 7777's before the superbowl.

I don't think you need to spend that much. I spent about $110 and got everything I need. Keep in mind however, that KMBC ABC out of KC is VHF, not UHF, so you will either need a combo, or have a seperate antenna for just them.

BREAKING NEWS: According to two unrelated, reliable and extremely well-placed sources, the Super Bowl will be on Cox in high-def. :D :D :D :D :D :D

BREAKING NEWS: According to two unrelated, reliable and extremely well-placed sources, the Super Bowl will be on Cox in high-def. :D :D :D :D :D :D

How is that going to be possible? KTKA would have to consent to having Cox use the KAKE or KMBC feed, right??

How is that going to be possible?

Both my sources said KTKA would have the Super Bowl in HD on Cox. I really don't know the specifics other than that. One of the two told me KTKA would be on Cox by the Super Bowl and the other said that KTKA would have the Super Bowl on cable in HD. Although different, the two statements aren't necessarily mutually exclusive and both agree about the Super Bowl in HD. I've said before that Cox was willing to go to great lengths last year to have the Super Bowl in HD and I assume they would have been willing to work with KTKA as much as possible this year.

Sounds like something like they will just take the ABC feed, then feed in KTKA commercials, but they will not have it over the air??

but they will not have it over the air??

I was told the Super Bowl will be exclusive to Cox. I assume that at some point KTKA will broadcast OTA in HD but not in the next 25 days. I would guess that it's much easier and cheaper to somehow send the signal to Cox than it is to start transmitting it OTA.

This makes sense...it sounds a lot like the arrangement that Cox almost came to with KTMJ last time around. KTKA will get the equipment to recieve the HD feed from ABC's satellites, and will send it to Cox. Then at some point, I assume they will upgrade whatever equipment with their transmitter that also needs upgrading.

I wonder how much Cox is helping them out financially to do this?


I was told the Super Bowl will be exclusive to Cox. I assume that at some point KTKA will broadcast OTA in HD but not in the next 25 days. I would guess that it's much easier and cheaper to somehow send the signal to Cox than it is to start transmitting it OTA.

I noticed that the author of that article used to be program director of KTWU, but it had some good info. So basically in 2009, when they shut off analog, we will be able to get Fox in HD. I was told by someone at KTKA they could be HD by mid 2006.

Right now, I am actually pretty happy, as I get CBS, PBS, Fox, and NBC all in HD. I can also get ABC, but in SD, but it still not as bad as a compressed Directv signal. I can occasionally get KAKE out of Wichita for ABC HD, but it is not at all consistent, and when I do get it, it goes in and out alot. Probably 75% of the time, I can get KWCH out of Hutch, but since I get WIBW, I don't have a use, unless WIBW is showing a KU game and there is something I really want to watch on CBS.

I think it's sad we don't have an WB or UPN affiliate here.

Dave is retired and was the program director at the local PBS for many years. He began experimenting in picking up digital channels when 19 KC went digital (1998). He has played with antennas for years and has a 60 foot tower with a parabolic antenna and rotor at his home. He has never hooked up Cable or Satellite. He is totally dedicated to broadcast. He retired shortly after the local PBS went HD. The article he wrote for the paper was edited down from a much longer article that would make more sense to those of us that have been following HD for years. He's a great guy, full of information and very unbiased.

I wonder how much Cox is helping them out financially to do this?

I don't know. However, if I remember correctly, with KTMJ last year it wasn't that the station was going to make a profit off the deal but rather Cox would cover the expense of getting the signal from the station to wherever Cox needed it. Basically, as long as the station could handle receiving the HD broadcast Cox would handle the rest. That's a fuzzy recollection.

That sounds about right. I know in other markets, Cox has done pretty much the same thing. Not a bad deal for the station. Not bad for Cox either, since they probably own some fiber going right by the station anyway.

As much as I'm annoyed with them most of the time, you've got to hand it to Cox for trying at least. They've offered mediocre HD for years, they could just go right on doing it.

I don't know. However, if I remember correctly, with KTMJ last year it wasn't that the station was going to make a profit off the deal but rather Cox would cover the expense of getting the signal from the station to wherever Cox needed it. Basically, as long as the station could handle receiving the HD broadcast Cox would handle the rest. That's a fuzzy recollection.

How is the COX DVR box? Does it work well or are there still problems? I have been using stand alone and DIRECTV Tivo units for years. Do you think I would like the COX DVR?

The Cox DVR is getting pretty good. I've had it for a year and a half or so, and have seen the problems it has had. They upgraded the firmware in KS a while ago, and I haven't had any major problems ever since. On occasion, I have seen it miss a recording, but that hasn't happened but once since the software update.

It is pretty hard to beat, considering the competition out there right now. A dual tuner HD DVR for $15/month can't be had anywhere else.

How is the COX DVR box? Does it work well or are there still problems? I have been using stand alone and DIRECTV Tivo units for years. Do you think I would like the COX DVR?

BREAKING NEWS: According to two unrelated, reliable and extremely well-placed sources, the Super Bowl will be on Cox in high-def. :D :D :D :D :D :D

This would certainly be an exciting development! Thanks for posting. Do you have any idea when they would make this official if it goes through? I might want to invite some people over.


How is the COX DVR box? Does it work well or are there still problems? I have been using stand alone and DIRECTV Tivo units for years. Do you think I would like the COX DVR?

It's not perfect, but I like it a lot. For me, it certainly beats paying the price for a Tivo. I also like that I can get a "free" upgrade/replacement as the machines improve or die (as my first on eventually did). You probably will like it less than I do since I've never used Tivo, and you'll probably miss some functionality that I'm not used to. Take a look at the Moto 6412 thread in the HD recorder forum.

Do you have any idea when they would make this official if it goes through?

I was told it would be in time for the Super Bowl. That's all I know. I would not be totally surprised if we saw KTKA-HD in the channel guide before we heard an official announcement but that's total speculation. The reason I say that is that I think they're rushing to get this done and the timing is more of a practical matter than it is a contract matter. Again, that's a guess. However, I would think Cox would want to make an announcement early enough to sign up a bunch of new customers.

I was told it would be in time for the Super Bowl. That's all I know. I would not be totally surprised if we saw KTKA-HD in the channel guide before we heard an official announcement but that's total speculation. The reason I say that is that I think they're rushing to get this done and the timing is more of a practical matter than it is a contract matter. Again, that's a guess. However, I would think Cox would want to make an announcement early enough to sign up a bunch of new customers.

I'm not even a Cox customer, but I have many friends who are. Their HDTV page (http://www.cox.com/kansas/digitalcable/hdratesandprogramming.asp) lists KTKA. I don't know if this is a new development or if that's been there a long time in hopes of KTKA's conversion. The lineup page still does NOT include KTKA.

All I know is, I was getting decent reception on KMBC (ABC) with my ChannelMaster 4228 last night once I got it working. Super Bowl party at my house in Meriden! It's the one with the garish antenna. :D

I'm not even a Cox customer, but I have many friends who are. Their HDTV page (http://www.cox.com/kansas/digitalcable/hdratesandprogramming.asp) lists KTKA. I don't know if this is a new development or if that's been there a long time in hopes of KTKA's conversion. The lineup page still does NOT include KTKA.

KTKA has been on that list for some time.

IF Cox can keep the HD feed from KTKA after the Super Bowl, and if they add KSNT-DT as well as an HD feed from KTMJ then, (and I can't believe I'm saying this), I will probably switch from Directv back to cable. The only thing I'd miss IF the above were available on Cox would be ESPN2-HD, and perhaps Cox would have that by next football season.

Question for those of you with HD from Cox: how do you find the quality? As many of you know, Directv lowers the resolution on their HD feeds, and some look like crap at times. Does Cox 'manipulate' resolution of its HD channels in order to conserve bandwidth?

Thanks,
Bish

I don't think so--resolution is great on cox and I have the sxrd

Wibw looks very similar whether I am on antennae or cox. pbs actually looks better on cox which I can't figure out. I guess cox gets it locally but I'm not sure. of course I get nbc ota but abc going to cox makes me rethink whether to go get an outdoor antennae or not

I don't think so--resolution is great on cox and I have the sxrd

Wibw looks very similar whether I am on antennae or cox. pbs actually looks better on cox which I can't figure out. I guess cox gets it locally but I'm not sure. of course I get nbc ota but abc going to cox makes me rethink whether to go get an outdoor antennae or not

I've always figured that was due to KTWU's multicasting. They have to reduce their bandwidth to the HD channel when it goes over the air. I'll bet Cox gets it before the bitrate gets cut down.

Thanks for the replies re: 'resolution' on Cox.
One more thing: the HD DVR from Cox, (Motorola 6412?), does it have an input for an OTA antenna also, or just the cable feed?
TIA,
Bish

Ok, maybe somebody could help me, or at least reassure me, but we live at approx 21st and MacVicar in Topeka. Our HDTV is up on the 2nd floor in the NE corner of the house. I'm looking for a cheap indoor antenna to get the local HD channels. Would the TERK HDTVA model work ok for me, or am I spinning my wheels by not getting a roofmount? Thanks in advance.

James

Thanks for the replies re: 'resolution' on Cox.
One more thing: the HD DVR from Cox, (Motorola 6412?), does it have an input for an OTA antenna also, or just the cable feed?
TIA,
Bish

Nope, just the two (encrypted) QAM tuners that it is using for the cable channels. It would have been nice.

Ok, maybe somebody could help me, or at least reassure me, but we live at approx 21st and MacVicar in Topeka. Our HDTV is up on the 2nd floor in the NE corner of the house. I'm looking for a cheap indoor antenna to get the local HD channels. Would the TERK HDTVA model work ok for me, or am I spinning my wheels by not getting a roofmount? Thanks in advance.

James

I am in the 29th and Wanamaker area and I have tried a indoor antenna on my TV. I could pick up most channels but any time someone in the house would walk around the picture would break up. You being on a 2nd floor might help. The towers are directly west of you and slightly north. I say it would be worth a try. Good luck.