Has no one noticed that Comcast is conducting a broad campaign of getting local channels to make a big issue out of what the "Comcast channel" for it is?

The answer is obvious: Comcast pays the stations. OTA doesn't.

Conspiracy Theories? To the best of my understanding, the different cable companies have their weather channels on different channel numbers. It is in the station's best interest to point the viewers to the correct channel.

Also, I asked once about promoting the digital sub-channels over-the-air. The response I got is that would become too much of a mouthful at the end of a weather forecast and that most of the viewers are found on cable or the internet. Unfortunately, OTA viewers are still in the minority.

By the way...WPXI, WTOV in Steubenville and WJAC in Johnstown all fall under the ownership of Cox Enterprises (http://www.coxenterprises.com/corp/home.htm). In other words, don't be too surprised if you find similarities between the three of us.

Does this help explain things any?

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

Conspiracy Theories?

Nope. Just a basic of human nature that people do what yields the most benefit.

Has no one noticed that Comcast is conducting a broad campaign of getting local channels to make a big issue out of what the "Comcast channel" for it is?

Aside from Weather Plus, the only other channel I have noticed mentioning their cable slot is WPMY. You figure since Crapcast absorbed Adelphia after they and Time Warner cast lots on the carcase of Adelphia, they became the top dog and control the majority of coax in the Pittsburgh DMA so 65%-75% of cable sets will receive them on channel 10.

There are some stations that identify solely with their cable channel, and in San Diego they ID with both channels such as "NBC 7/39" since most of that area is Cox territory. In Canada where cable penetration is higher than in the US, they do the same but the OTA slot takes precedence.

I have an older DirecTV receiver (RCA model of some sort) and recently I noticed that there are a lot of new channels showing up that appear to be slots for HD or Digital local channels. Contrary to what I've read, all of the digital channels are showing up for each 'channel', WTAE's Weather and Traffic for example and all 3 WPGH digital channels. I'm in the Butler county region so I might be seeing something different than folks in Allegheny county.

Has anyone else seen this? And do you have any information about it?

...Kevin

p.s. sorry if this is in the wrong thread. I couldn't find a better place to put it.

I have an older DirecTV receiver (RCA model of some sort) and recently I noticed that there are a lot of new channels showing up that appear to be slots for HD or Digital local channels. Contrary to what I've read, all of the digital channels are showing up for each 'channel', WTAE's Weather and Traffic for example and all 3 WPGH digital channels. I'm in the Butler county region so I might be seeing something different than folks in Allegheny county.

Has anyone else seen this? And do you have any information about it?

...Kevin

p.s. sorry if this is in the wrong thread. I couldn't find a better place to put it.

Glad to see someone else in Adams on the boards! I don't know much about DirecTV receivers (I have DISH), however, since you are here, why not try OTA? I receive a bunch of great signals (15 channels), so much to the point that I dumped my local channels package from DISH. As for Direct, their latest TV ads say something about having capacity for 150 HD channels eventually. So maybe it's something with that.

Glad to see someone else in Adams on the boards! I don't know much about DirecTV receivers (I have DISH), however, since you are here, why not try OTA? I receive a bunch of great signals (15 channels), so much to the point that I dumped my local channels package from DISH. As for Direct, their latest TV ads say something about having capacity for 150 HD channels eventually. So maybe it's something with that.

pghturbo88 - thanks for replying. I am trying to get some OTA channels. However, due to the topography of where my house is situated, I can't get much of anything. I have a 100' hill right behind my house in the direction of most Pittsburgh broadcasters. I was able to get the stations in Youngstown, OH somewhat, but since the trees have gotten their leaves, that signal is very weak at best.

...Kevin

pghturbo88 - thanks for replying. I am trying to get some OTA channels. However, due to the topography of where my house is situated, I can't get much of anything. I have a 100' hill right behind my house in the direction of most Pittsburgh broadcasters. I was able to get the stations in Youngstown, OH somewhat, but since the trees have gotten their leaves, that signal is very weak at best.

...Kevin

Topography makes all of the difference. I get great reception, yet a buddy nearby (down over the hill) can't get very much (not even the Youngstown stuff.) What are you using for an antenna?

Topography makes all of the difference. I get great reception, yet a buddy nearby (down over the hill) can't get very much (not even the Youngstown stuff.) What are you using for an antenna?

Sadly a crappy radio shack omni directional with an inline signal booster. If I can prove to myself that my home built PVR (MythTV) can play back HD content I might consider getting something better.

I have my first (and only) ATSC tuner in a new TV. I get solid signal from all of the pittsburgh locals except WQED.

I have solid signal, but I have a decoding issue with the WTAE feed. I read back through the thread, and it looks like some people started having some issues with WTAE when they added 4.2. I, unfortunately, haven't had my tuner that long, so I don't know if my problem would predate the 4.2 addition.

During most of their HD programming (every primetime HD show that I have watched: ex: Traveler, Housewives) I get some very pronounced frame "lag". The scene freezes for about a quarter of a second every five seconds or so. It seems to be worse when there is motion in the scene. It really reminds me of a CPU that can't keep up with the decoding of a video stream, like if you tried to watch a DVD with a SW only decoder on a slow pentium eight years ago.

Just to rule out the signal quality, since WTAE is off on its own, I tried the Comcast QAM feed and saw exactly the same behavior.

I also saw the same issue on an HD movie feed on WPMY one night. I don't have as many details on that feed, because they don't show as much HD.

It isn't all 720p feeds, because WPGH is solid. It isn't even all of WTAE's feeds, because Good Morning America doesn't have any problems. Also, the Chicago fireworks feed on WPMY on the 4th was fine.

So does anyone else have a set that is confused/overwhelmed by some of the streams on these channels? I posted to the thread of the individual set, and found one other person in Pittsburgh with the same problem. But without any other responses it's still impossible to determine if it is a flaw in the set's tuner, or if these stations are broadcasting something out of the ordinary that confuse a lot of tuners.

Thanks in advance for any insight that you have!
-justin

I have my first (and only) ATSC tuner in a new TV. I get solid signal from all of the pittsburgh locals except WQED.

I have the same problem. I don't mind not getting WQEX-DT, since I don't need to see home shopping in clear digital and in Dolby Digital 2.0.

I have solid signal, but I have a decoding issue with the WTAE feed. I read back through the thread, and it looks like some people started having some issues with WTAE when they added 4.2. I, unfortunately, haven't had my tuner that long, so I don't know if my problem would predate the 4.2 addition.

I've noticed some glitches with WTAE and WPXI with the image freezing momentarily.

On "Channel 4 News at 5" on WTAE today, there was a segment about cell phones and a proposal from the FCC to make any phone workable on any network. The reporter also mentioned about the government reclaiming TV spectrum currently in use but will be freed once they begin digital operations, to be used for a national wireless broadband network

This is about as close to mentioning digital OTA TV will replace analog as any station has come.

I don't know when the 50 cent tour is, but I understand that there will be a time that the public can come in to see the facility. I'll post it as I learn more (I think it will be sometime near Labor Day). And no, I haven't seen the QED MC yet...I'd like to see it sometime. I'll bet things are a lot different than they were for the short time I worked there!

Dave

Dave,
I happened to pass by the new digs yesterday while transporting the wife and daughter on a shopping expedition. All I can say is WOW! Looks like you guys will have some much improved working conditions once everything is moved. Even the ladies were impressed. I am looking forward to seeing local HD programming.

Dave,
I happened to pass by the new digs yesterday while transporting the wife and daughter on a shopping expedition. All I can say is WOW! Looks like you guys will have some much improved working conditions once everything is moved. Even the ladies were impressed. I am looking forward to seeing local HD programming.

Aside from the fact that we've got our work cut out for us between now and Labor Day, I have to say that I won't miss the drive up to TV Hill in the winter!

Dave

On "Channel 4 News at 5" on WTAE today, there was a segment about cell phones and a proposal from the FCC to make any phone workable on any network. The reporter also mentioned about the government reclaiming TV spectrum currently in use but will be freed once they begin digital operations, to be used for a national wireless broadband network

This is about as close to mentioning digital OTA TV will replace analog as any station has come.
I heard the same news story on WTAE . You are correct that this the FIRST report concerning the TV spectrum that I have heard also. Grandma&Grandpa are in for a BIG suprise when Uncle Sam "Pulls the plug" Feb 09! :eek: Keep up the good work WTAE , ;) you are the best news station around with real people to present it.

I got a new tv this morning and all three were on and thirty min. later I get no signal.

I got a new tv this morning and all three were on and thirty min. later I get no signal.

It was probably the weather changing, and the signal weakened. WQED doesn't have the greatest transmitter. I'm 60 mi from WQED, and once the weather changes each morning I can say good-bye.

Hey Dave Morrison,

Nice write up in the Trib.

Is WPXI going to be the first station in the Burg' to go HD with its local newcasts?

This market is lagging behind even smaller markets when it comes to this.

Just wondering...

Hey Dave Morrison,

Nice write up in the Trib.

Is WPXI going to be the first station in the Burg' to go HD with its local newcasts?

This market is lagging behind even smaller markets when it comes to this.

Just wondering...

Benji....thanks for the heads up on that Trib article. I didn't know it was out there and I just finished reading it before replying to you.

As far as HD newscasts, I hear a lot of people asking that very same question! Hmmm...it sounds like you have $$$ riding on this! ;)

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

Dave,

I just couldn't see Cox investing $ 30 million dollars into new digs that weren't up with the times.

I also think it would be a great move on WPXI's part because it would make people like us watch your newscasts over the other stations. What a great publicity campaign WPXI could have on this!

Btw, by using a microwave link to your old antenna, will this degrade your HD picture quality?

I also think it would be a great move on WPXI's part because it would make people like us watch your newscasts over the other stations. What a great publicity campaign WPXI could have on this!

First I think they need to straighten out the newscasts. It seems lately that both the ones on 11, as well as 53's edition, have been really sloppy: audio drop-outs, throwing to taped pieces that either don't play or play without audio, incorrect chyrons, anchors reading the other anchor's script, etc. From having worked in TV, I understand that in a live newscast things happen unexpectedly, but it seems to be happening too often.

As for news in HD, I saw a broadcast of WDIV-DT Detroit's evening newscast in HD. It is impressive, but I'll still take watching sports over news in HD.

Btw, by using a microwave link to your old antenna, will this degrade your HD picture quality?
There should be no noticable difference in picture quality at all.

Dave

First I think they need to straighten out the newscasts. It seems lately that both the ones on 11, as well as 53's edition, have been really sloppy: audio drop-outs, throwing to taped pieces that either don't play or play without audio, incorrect chyrons, anchors reading the other anchor's script, etc. From having worked in TV, I understand that in a live newscast things happen unexpectedly, but it seems to be happening too often.

JK77...Please bear with us. Newscasts have been produced in much the same way for the last 30 year or more - until now. Just recently we've implemented a new computerized system and we've been training and learning in advance of the move to the new facility. All of us have to un-learn what we used to know, and learn new systems, techniques, etc.

There's a steep learning curve; and while there are still plenty of issues (those that viewers notice, and those they don't), we're getting better at it.

We don't have the luxury of doing one thing or another - we simply have to multitask much better. We're going through a rough stretch, but I see a light at the end of the tunnel.

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

will the HD news casts finally get rid of the horribly obtrusive station logo/graphics ?


will the prime time lineup suffer less of the stuck in widescreen SD for 2-3 commercial breaks after the advertisement popins? (heroes and friday night lights in particular were ruined consistently last season with this)

As for news in HD, I saw a broadcast of WDIV-DT Detroit's evening newscast in HD. It is impressive, but I'll still take watching sports over news in HD.

I have seen the local ABC, and FOX out of Cleveland's newscasts in HD, and they are REALLY NICE to watch, and well done.

My local cable Company(TWC) up here in Hermitage, PA sends those locals(plus others) in the CLEAR.

Unfortunately, they are SACRIFICING the locals out of the Burgh(which I can get with an OTA antenna. But only KDKA/WPGH/WPXI, which are on the north Side of town. And this is with a crappy indoor amplified antenna) which I WILL NOT STAND FOR.

It may be forcing me over to satellite, and installing an Large outdoor antenna for the local YTown HD/digital staions, and the important Burgh ones(at least to me. WPGH and KDKA carry ALL of the Steeler games, which is a MUST HAVE :) )

There's a steep learning curve; and while there are still plenty of issues (those that viewers notice, and those they don't), we're getting better at it.Show this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbpUwx_YLGc) the next time something goes wrong over there. Remember that no matter how bad things can be, they can always be worse. For the video I linked, listen for the producer's scream after she says the wrong URL.

will the HD news casts finally get rid of the horribly obtrusive station logo/graphics ?

Probably not.



will the prime time lineup suffer less of the stuck in widescreen SD for 2-3 commercial breaks after the advertisement popins? (heroes and friday night lights in particular were ruined consistently last season with this)

I don't know the answer to that.

Dave

Show this video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FbpUwx_YLGc) the next time something goes wrong over there. Remember that no matter how bad things can be, they can always be worse. For the video I linked, listen for the producer's scream after she says the wrong URL.

Oh my! That IS a disaster! It was a disaster even before she gave the wrong URL!

Dave

If I'm not mistaken, that was ABC's on-line news service and that was an intern doing the interview.

I don't know the answer to that.

Dave


well, i hope at least it's a known issue :confused: :(

JK77...Please bear with us. Newscasts have been produced in much the same way for the last 30 year or more - until now. Just recently we've implemented a new computerized system and we've been training and learning in advance of the move to the new facility. All of us have to un-learn what we used to know, and learn new systems, techniques, etc.

I thought something must have changed for all of these problems to just begin occuring all of asudden. I figured management would save rolling out new equipment for when you all move to the new studios.

Another glitch I've noticed is that on WeatherPlus, Latrobe's five day forecast seems to lack temperatures from time-to-time. I wrote the station and was told it was some sort of software glitch, but it's only Latrobe's that is afflicted. Out of the ten or so in the rotation, Beaver Falls' low temps are missing sometimes.

NFL Question: Which station will be picking up the local OTA broadcast of the preseason game between the Steelers and the Saints?

NFL Question: Which station will be picking up the local OTA broadcast of the preseason game between the Steelers and the Saints?

It looks like KDKA according to the steelers online schedule.

Another glitch I've noticed is that on WeatherPlus, Latrobe's five day forecast seems to lack temperatures from time-to-time. I wrote the station and was told it was some sort of software glitch, but it's only Latrobe's that is afflicted. Out of the ten or so in the rotation, Beaver Falls' low temps are missing sometimes.

I'm very familiar with Weather Plus. Unfortunately, we're at the mercy of the NWS reporting stations at the airports. From time to time, they supply incomplete information. Latrobe is notorious for not reporting complete information. I've also noticed that Washington is often incomplete.

Dave

I'm very familiar with Weather Plus. Unfortunately, we're at the mercy of the NWS reporting stations at the airports. From time to time, they supply incomplete information. Latrobe is notorious for not reporting complete information. I've also noticed that Washington is often incomplete.

I'm surprised the reply I got from the station didn't mention the incomplete data, but referred to it as a "glitch" making it sound like a problem with the WX+ system itself. I like that it's streamed on the site. Thanks for the info Dave.

I'm surprised the reply I got from the station didn't mention the incomplete data, but referred to it as a "glitch" making it sound like a problem with the WX+ system itself.

JK77...You just have to ask the right guy! ;)

Dave

It looks like KDKA according to the steelers online schedule.


According to TitanTV the Steeler vs New Orleans game on KDKA is not being shown in HD. The NFL network is producing this game in HD, the New Orleans ABC affiliate, and DirectTV are also carrying the game in HD. Anyone know for certain that we will not see this game in HD?


Kevin

According to TitanTV the Steeler vs New Orleans game on KDKA is not being shown in HD. The NFL network is producing this game in HD, the New Orleans ABC affiliate, and DirectTV are also carrying the game in HD. Anyone know for certain that we will not see this game in HD?


Kevin


if true, beyond lame and shame on KDKA.

if true, beyond lame and shame on KDKA.

I was watching the 4:00 KDKA news, and they had a little note about the game that they will show the NFL Networks presentation, so I guess it depends on if they have access to the HD feed or not?

I don't know if any of this is true or not. But I would like to see it in HD.

I was watching the 4:00 KDKA news, and they had a little note about the game that they will show the NFL Networks presentation, so I guess it depends on if they have access to the HD feed or not?

I don't know if any of this is true or not. But I would like to see it in HD.

well, as the nfl network presentation is in HD, then kdka should be able to receive it and pass it in HD. if they don't... we know the rea$on$

guys... i have a question. i haven't been reliant on ota since comcast came out in pittsburgh, but i'm thinking of cancelling cable altogether. i started to entertain this the other day when i noticed a friend of mine getting flawless reception of hd ota channels with a pair of radio shack rabbit ears on her xbr-970 in shadyside. in a basement apartment.

so i presume tuners have gotten a lot better since like 2002. or signals. or something. i don't know. my question is, specifically, this: 1 - is wtae-dt broadcasting a more powerful signal these days? it was impossible to receive back in my days in oakland. 2 - how reliable, overall is reception with rabbit ears in the city, and what kinds of antennae are ideal?

any input at all is very much welcome.

go stillurs.

dan

I do know that last year, the NFL Thurday Night Game between the Browns-Steelers was presented in HD locally.

I can't remember if it was KDKA/WKBN(Ytown CBS) who carried the game, or WPXI/WFMJ(Ytown NBC).

I know this is a regular season game, and not a preseason game.

But that game was shown in HD by the network.

But it may be a $ issue sot to do it, and save the HD broadcasts for the regular season/postseason, which would make sense.

Unless it is a NATIONALLY TELEVISED game(which for the first time, the Hall of Fame Game is not since the NFL Network is carrying it), then I doubt it will be in HD.

But who knows.

guys... i have a question. i haven't been reliant on ota since comcast came out in pittsburgh, but i'm thinking of cancelling cable altogether. i started to entertain this the other day when i noticed a friend of mine getting flawless reception of hd ota channels with a pair of radio shack rabbit ears on her xbr-970 in shadyside. in a basement apartment.

so i presume tuners have gotten a lot better since like 2002. or signals. or something. i don't know. my question is, specifically, this: 1 - is wtae-dt broadcasting a more powerful signal these days? it was impossible to receive back in my days in oakland. 2 - how reliable, overall is reception with rabbit ears in the city, and what kinds of antennae are ideal?

any input at all is very much welcome.

go stillurs.

dan

Here is the thing about OTA reception for ANYONE:

It is VERY FINICKY.

Topography/location plays a HUGE part in what people can receive.

Your neighbor just may be in some sort of "sweet spot" for rabbit ear reception.

Which is weird since the locals are in the UHF band, and not the VHF band, which rabbit ears are useful.

But that aside, tuners HAVE gotten much better at reception. They reject multipath alot better than older models.

The Samsung 260 found at Circuit City is a crowd pleaser for MOST people. And it appears to be on CLOSEOUT since the Set Top Box tuners are being PHASED OUT because they are being now incorporated HEAVILY/MAINLY in all the new TV sets available now.

You will find many of the same chips in the new tv's 27" or larger at this point, so the STB is being phased out by manufacturers(not completely though).

Anyway, back to reception.

I live about 50 miles NORTH of the towers for KDKA, WPGH, and WPXI.

Using the LG 4200A, and a RCA indoor amplified antenna, I get those stations with NO PROBLEM(plus the local Ytown stations at well).

But my Topography plays a huge part in that because, technically(if you looked at a topographical map), I live on top of a hill.

Just down the road from me at a lower region, this may be impossible. Maybe, but possibly.

WQED/WTAE/The CW are to far off for reception with an indoor antenna, even amplified.

I would probably have GREAT LUCK with a nice 8-bay outdoor UHF antenna(may need indoor amp, maybe not), but since this works for me, it is not neccessary.

But I would try an amplifed indoor antenna(UHF mainly) from WalMart.

Just keep the receipt and original box since they have a nice 90 return policy.

It may be hit or miss for a while until you find the right antenna, plus the SWEET SPOT in the house to get reception.

Here is the thing about OTA reception for ANYONE:

It is VERY FINICKY.

Topography/location plays a HUGE part in what people can receive.

Your neighbor just may be in some sort of "sweet spot" for rabbit ear reception.

It may be hit or miss for a while until you find the right antenna, plus the SWEET SPOT in the house to get reception.


I agree about the sweet spot. I have two antennas - a Terk HDTVI (no amp), and a Philips PHDTV3 (with a 10db line amp) that I saved from the trash heap. Most of my programming is OTA here in Pittsburgh. The Terk is connected to my Sony HD DVR, and the Philips connected to the antenna input of the Mits Y-65. I am on a slight hill, about 25 to 30 miles away from most of the transmitter sites in the Pittsburgh metro. Reception is great, even on WTAE-DT. TAE is lower on the horizon, in Elizabeth Township, but they are cranking at full power now. (attached a couple of pix of the antennas. ) Still use the VHF for FM and guide data for TVGOS for the TV on the Philips, and VHF to pull in guide data from the Terk to the Sony DVR. After some experimenting, I did locate a spot for both antennas where I no longer have to adjust them for optimal signal.

Had the Terk HDTVA (one with a 10db outboard line amp) hooked up to a DirecTV H20 when I worked at BBY in Monroeville a couple of years ago to demo live HD in the store - managed to pull in channel 4 to record super bowl XL in the store. No problems. I'd recommend the Terk, because you can orient the UHF element horizontally or vertically. You can also find it online for as low as 17 bucks. Shop around....

According to TitanTV the Steeler vs New Orleans game on KDKA is not being shown in HD. The NFL network is producing this game in HD, the New Orleans ABC affiliate, and DirectTV are also carrying the game in HD. Anyone know for certain that we will not see this game in HD?

TV Guide on Screen is also indicating KDKA will not be showing this game in HD. Although, I don't know how accurate that is since sometimes they indicate non-HD programming as being in HD, and vice-versa.

Does anyone have any updates on WPCW-19 broadcasting in HD? I enjoy watching a few shows on the WB and would look forward to watching in HD as there are no other alternatives here in western PA.

Does anyone have any updates on WPCW-19 broadcasting in HD? I enjoy watching a few shows on the WB and would look forward to watching in HD as there are no other alternatives here in western PA.


The FCC has still not acted on WPCW's request for a construction permit for their digital transmitter. A low power station in Indiana, PA, owned by the same group that operates WBGN in Pittsburgh, has opposed WPCW's claim for channel 49 (which the FCC has already approved. I've been monitoring the FCC's Daily Digest and have noticed an increase in the granting of digital construction permits, so I can only guess they are working their way through a backlog of applications. Rob Owen's weekly TV Q&A (http://www.post-gazette.com/tv/questions/) column in the Post Gazette has a paragraph on this topic as well.

thanks for the helpful responses, guys. your input is appreciated. i'm gonna just buy an antenna or two and play with them for a while to determine what i can get from where i am.

to reiterate my first question, though: does anyone know the status of wtae-dt's signal? any stronger now than it was a few years ago?

dan

thanks for the helpful responses, guys. your input is appreciated. i'm gonna just buy an antenna or two and play with them for a while to determine what i can get from where i am.

to reiterate my first question, though: does anyone know the status of wtae-dt's signal? any stronger now than it was a few years ago?

dan
Hi Dan: It's raining cats and dogs right now, and WTAE DT is coming in at 88%. Much much better than a couple of years ago. Best I could get 4 digital to come in on a clear day back then was approx 60 to 66%. I do think they are at 100% of their ERP (effective radiated power) at a million watts. You could always call engineering on Monday and ask 'em.

WTAE-DT transmitter data link:
http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?list=0&appid=1019227

WTAE-TV PA PITTSBURGH USA (Digital)

Licensee: WTAE HEARST-ARGYLE TV, INC. (CA CORP.)
Service Designation: DT Digital television station

Channel: 51 692 - 698 MHz Licensed
File No.: BLCDT-20041014AEY Facility ID number: 65681
CDBS Application ID No.: 1019227

40° 16' 49.00" N Latitude Site in Canadian Border Zone 79° 48' 11.00" W Longitude (NAD 27)

Polarization: Horizontal (H) Effective Radiated Power (ERP): 1000. kW ERP Antenna Height Above Average Terrain: 273. meters HAAT -- Calculate HAAT Antenna Height Above Mean Sea Level: 587. meters AMSL Antenna Height Above Ground Level: 287. meters AGL TV Zone: 1 Frequency Offset: 0 (zero) Directional Antenna ID No.: 40377 Pattern Rotation: 0.00
Antenna Make: DIE Antenna Model: TFU-30DSC-R CT150

Relative Field values for directional antenna Relative Field polar plot
Relative field values do not include any pattern rotation that may be indicated above.

0° 0.864 60° 0.921 120° 0.384 180° 0.744 240° 0.973 300° 0.981 10° 0.919 70° 0.863 130° 0.465 190° 0.863 250° 0.919 310° 1.000 20° 0.973 80° 0.744 140° 0.384 200° 0.921 260° 0.864 320° 0.981 30° 0.997 90° 0.542 150° 0.214 210° 0.957 270° 0.845 330° 0.932 40° 0.986 100° 0.289 160° 0.289 220° 0.986 280° 0.875 340° 0.875 50° 0.957 110° 0.214 170° 0.542 230° 0.997 290° 0.932 350° 0.845

Additional azimuths:
106° 0.194 154° 0.194

Additional Individual Tower Information from the Antenna Structure Registration database.
(Use the Registration Number link for detailed information.)

ASRN Site Elevation (meters) Overall HeightAbove Ground(meters) Overall HeightAbove Mean SeaLevel (meters) NAD 83 Tower Coordinates----------------------------------------------- Convert toNAD 27 Latitude Longitude 1025144 299.6 324.0 623.6 N 40° 16' 49.0" W 79° 48' 10.0" To NAD27

Does anyone have any updates on WPCW-19 broadcasting in HD? I enjoy watching a few shows on the WB and would look forward to watching in HD as there are no other alternatives here in western PA.
An alternative would be WBCB 21.2 from Youngstown.SD, but far better than 19! I might mention it's 20 digital.

http://www.hdsportsguide.com/nfl.php

assuming this is correct, kdka must just being cheap :mad:

guys... i have a question. i haven't been reliant on ota since comcast came out in pittsburgh, but i'm thinking of cancelling cable altogether. i started to entertain this the other day when i noticed a friend of mine getting flawless reception of hd ota channels with a pair of radio shack rabbit ears on her xbr-970 in shadyside. in a basement apartment.

A friend of mine from college was living in Oakland a few years back, didn't have cable, and she got clear signals from all of the stations including the LPTVs. Meanwhile where I live, I get only full power stations and zero LPTVs.

so i presume tuners have gotten a lot better since like 2002. or signals. or something. i don't know. my question is, specifically, this: 1 - is wtae-dt broadcasting a more powerful signal these days? it was impossible to receive back in my days in oakland. 2 - how reliable, overall is reception with rabbit ears in the city, and what kinds of antennae are ideal?

WTAE, as with all of the other DTVs except WQED, WQEX, and WPCB, are running at 1,000kW, which I believe is full power for digital but I defer to Dave on specifications. Where I live, Pittsburgh is to the northwest, so that is where the antenna faces most of the time and I can get WTAE-DT even though it is to the west of me. I even get WWCP-DT on the backside of the antenna.

Considering where you are, it's probably not out of the realm of possibilities to be able to get DTVs via indoor antennas. A bow-tie antenna could work since everything right now is on UHF, but the best possible solution would be an outdoor VHF/UHF antenna (since WQED, WTOV, and WWCP will return to their current frequencies after 2/17/2009) with a rotor. With the latter, you might be able to pick up Wheeling/Steubenville, Youngstown, and Johnstown, depending on trees, buildings, terrain, and interferrence from LPTVs. For the most part, it'll help you get all of the Pittsburgh stations, since WPCW will be and WPCB is to your southeast, and others to the west and northwest.

A friend of mine from college was living in Oakland a few years back, didn't have cable, and she got clear signals from all of the stations including the LPTVs. Meanwhile where I live, I get only full power stations and zero LPTVs.



WTAE, as with all of the other DTVs except WQED, WQEX, and WPCB, are running at 1,000kW, which I believe is full power for digital but I defer to Dave on specifications. Where I live, Pittsburgh is to the northwest, so that is where the antenna faces most of the time and I can get WTAE-DT even though it is to the west of me. I even get WWCP-DT on the backside of the antenna.

Considering where you are, it's probably not out of the realm of possibilities to be able to get DTVs via indoor antennas. A bow-tie antenna could work since everything right now is on UHF, but the best possible solution would be an outdoor VHF/UHF antenna (since WQED, WTOV, and WWCP will return to their current frequencies after 2/17/2009) with a rotor. With the latter, you might be able to pick up Wheeling/Steubenville, Youngstown, and Johnstown, depending on trees, buildings, terrain, and interferrence from LPTVs. For the most part, it'll help you get all of the Pittsburgh stations, since WPCW will be and WPCB is to your southeast, and others to the west and northwest.


thanks for the advice. unfortunately, considering i live in an apartment, outdoor antennas are not an option.

a friend of mine today brought over a silver sensor and an rca ANT-537 (i think). i played around with both for a while, and made some interesting discoveries.

- i can get KDKA-DT, WPXI-DT, WPXI WP, WQED-DT, WQED-SD, WQED-Neighborhoods, WQEX-DT (a shopping channel... WTF?), WPMY-DT, WPMY-SD, WPGH-DT, and WPGH-SD

so that's channels 2.1, 11.1, 11.2, 13.1, 13.2, 13.3, 16.1, 22.1, 22.2, 53.1, 53.2

- the tv (xbr960) does NOT see WTAE-DT at all.

- for some reason, the tuner does not acknowledge the very existence of analog OTA channels. i have no idea why this is. i've run the "auto program" and "add digital channels" multiple times on the xbr960, and it hasn't seen a single analog channel, including ones that i should obviously be receiving loud and clear, like KDKA-TV 2 and WPGH-TV 53.... Why that is, i have no clue.

- apparently there is no way to manually add a digital channel in the xbr960. so i can't even tell it that 4.1 is there and then try to find a sweet spot for the signal.

... does anyone have a favorite indoor uhf-vhf antenna? does anyone have any clue why my tv doesn't seem to think analog channels exist?

thanks for the advice. unfortunately, considering i live in an apartment, outdoor antennas are not an option.

a friend of mine today brought over a silver sensor and an rca ANT-537 (i think). i played around with both for a while, and made some interesting discoveries.

- i can get KDKA-DT, WPXI-DT, WPXI WP, WQED-DT, WQED-SD, WQED-Neighborhoods, WQEX-DT (a shopping channel... WTF?), WPMY-DT, WPMY-SD, WPGH-DT, and WPGH-SD

so that's channels 2.1, 11.1, 11.2, 13.1, 13.2, 13.3, 16.1, 22.1, 22.2, 53.1, 53.2

- the tv (xbr960) does NOT see WTAE-DT at all.

Have you gone to antennaweb to plot the stations to assist you in pointing to get signal? Digital signals are very directional, and WTAE-DT, channel 51 is due south for most of us - depending where you live. Go to www.antennaweb.org, point properly, and I'll betcha a quarter 4.1 and 4.2 will come in.
- for some reason, the tuner does not acknowledge the very existence of analog OTA channels. i have no idea why this is. i've run the "auto program" and "add digital channels" multiple times on the xbr960, and it hasn't seen a single analog channel, including ones that i should obviously be receiving loud and clear, like KDKA-TV 2 and WPGH-TV 53.... Why that is, i have no clue.

Most of the analog channels you are trying to add are in the VHF band (2 - 13=VHF, 14-69=UHF) - the Silver Sensor is a UHF antenna.

- apparently there is no way to manually add a digital channel in the xbr960. so i can't even tell it that 4.1 is there and then try to find a sweet spot for the signal.

If you tune to 4.1, rotate the antenna til you get a picture. Run autoscan again, and let it complete. Don't recall if your set has a signal strength meter - check your owners guide. If you don't have it, download it here:
http://www.amazon.com/SONY-Super-Pitch-Television-KD-34XBR960/dp/B0002NDFKM

... does anyone have a favorite indoor uhf-vhf antenna? does anyone have any clue why my tv doesn't seem to think analog channels exist?

Once again, the sensor is a uhf antenna ONLY - try the Terk as I previouly suggested. Much better build quality, and more stable on a flat surface than the sensor. You get what you pay for. Hope this helps. Good luck!

Go Stillers!

I know the sensor is UHF only, so I didn't expect to get any VHF channels on it... but I also don't get any UHF analog channels with it. And I didn't get any analog channels - be they VHF or UHF - with the other antenna I tried, which was a UHF-VHF antenna.

I know it's not me, but don't you wish KD would fix this lip sync issue - Cris and Bryant look like they are in a badly dubbed Japanese monster flick. Yoi and double yoi. The surround sound and picture are outstanding. CBS and/or KD engineering - please correct the audio synchronization error......

wow, so it IS in HD . i eat my words gratefully. thanks kdka

Just for argument's sake, wouldn't it be nice if WQED ran their normally-scheduled programming on 13-3 while they run pledge drive programming on 13-2?

Just for argument's sake, wouldn't it be nice if WQED ran their normally-scheduled programming on 13-3 while they run pledge drive programming on 13-2?

What would be the logical point of doing that? Everyone in the viewing area does not have access to 13.2 or 13.3. Where would you place the Neighborhood Channel content from 13.3? Have you made a pledge yet to support the station? For what it's worth, QED made it's first (in the nation) HD pledge drive during the hi def premier of the Sebak "Underground Pittsburgh" special earlier this summer on 13.1. Some food for thought.

I know it's not me, but don't you wish KD would fix this lip sync issue - Cris and Bryant look like they are in a badly dubbed Japanese monster flick. Yoi and double yoi. The surround sound and picture are outstanding. CBS and/or KD engineering - please correct the audio synchronization error......

I noticed that no matter what the HD source, CBS or NFL Network, their equipment still can't transition smoothly between it and local commercial inserts. It is a shame that a network O&O station does such a sloppy job while the others that are not network owned can handle it so effortlessly.

I know the sensor is UHF only, so I didn't expect to get any VHF channels on it... but I also don't get any UHF analog channels with it. And I didn't get any analog channels - be they VHF or UHF - with the other antenna I tried, which was a UHF-VHF antenna.

I give up...zzzzzzzzzzzzzz

I noticed that no matter what the HD source, CBS or NFL Network, their equipment still can't transition smoothly between it and local commercial inserts. It is a shame that a network O&O station does such a sloppy job while the others that are not network owned can handle it so effortlessly.

hey, it's not like they've been at this for years....

i mean, it's not like they're the only station with these problems...

wait.

Does anyone have any updates on WPCW-19 broadcasting in HD? I enjoy watching a few shows on the WB and would look forward to watching in HD as there are no other alternatives here in western PA.

The latest Digital TV report released today by the FCC appears to settle the dispute over the use of Channel 49.
The FCC is suggesting WPCW move to Channel 11.
Obviously, that will not happen before 2009 (no need to create another headache for Mr. Morrison :) )
So, my read between the lines is no digital CW for some time, unless somebody can make more sense of the FCC's DTV report than I.

Link to FCC Final Assignment of Digital TV Channels (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-07-138A1.pdf) (in a pdf file - see page 61)

The latest Digital TV report released today by the FCC appears to settle the dispute over the use of Channel 49.
The FCC is suggesting WPCW move to Channel 11.
Obviously, that will not happen before 2009 (no need to create another headache for Mr. Morrison :) )
So, my read between the lines is no digital CW for some time, unless somebody can make more sense of the FCC's DTV report than I.

It sounds like CW-HD won't be available until 2/17/2009 since CBS doesn't want 30, the owners of WLLS-LP don't want them on 49, and the FCC is giving them a current analog slot. I'm still surprised they haven't put an SD version on 2-2 yet so it at least has a digital presence. While I don't watch CW programming, it'd be nice to have a clear picture for Pens games.

The latest Digital TV report released today by the FCC appears to settle the dispute over the use of Channel 49.
The FCC is suggesting WPCW move to Channel 11.
Obviously, that will not happen before 2009 (no need to create another headache for Mr. Morrison :) )
So, my read between the lines is no digital CW for some time, unless somebody can make more sense of the FCC's DTV report than I.


Hey Yak -- What's up with the "Mr." stuff?

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

Its on a digital channel wpxi is on 42 so the cw could do 11 now I think

Hey Yak -- What's up with the "Mr." stuff?

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

:)
Well, with you moving into the North Hills and all, I figured you might be going all upscale on us... you know drinking beer out of a clean glass, that sort of thing.

Is anybody else having problems receiving WPXI and WPGH in HD on Dish? I can receive all other channels, including the standard definition WPXI and WPGH. It started after the bad storms that rolled through the area. I receive a "signal is lost" for those 2 channels.

Thanks,
Brian

I was in the 'burgh this past weekend and brought my set-top box and an indoor antenna, I was staying in shaler and was impressed with reception. I had all the locals, plus WWCP.

According to TV fool, I should have been able to receive WPCW, does anyone else have a problem recieving it?

Its on a digital channel wpxi is on 42 so the cw could do 11 now I think

WPXI has a legal right to channel 11 for another year, 6 months, and 4 days. You couldn't have both 11 and 19-1 broadcasting on that same frequency, whether the signals being broadcast are in analog or digital format.

I was in the 'burgh this past weekend and brought my set-top box and an indoor antenna, I was staying in shaler and was impressed with reception. I had all the locals, plus WWCP.

According to TV fool, I should have been able to receive WPCW, does anyone else have a problem recieving it?

Yes, because WPCW-DT doesn't exist :D. When it was a Johnstown station, it was to get 30, but moved to Pittsburgh and 49 was granted to them but owners of WLLS-LP argued it would knock them off the air. PA_MainyYak's post from August 7, as well as the link he provides, goes into further detail on the continuing saga.

I don't know when the 50 cent tour is, but I understand that there will be a time that the public can come in to see the facility. I'll post it as I learn more (I think it will be sometime near Labor Day). And no, I haven't seen the QED MC yet...I'd like to see it sometime. I'll bet things are a lot different than they were for the short time I worked there!

Dave
Since on the Labor day weekend after the telethon,WPXI supposed to have the first local news broadcast in HD, does this also mean that the channel 11 news on Fox 53 will also be in HD? :confused:

Hello there I just moved to the point breeze area and was trying to get my system setup. I am having some problems.

I ran a cable to the third floor and put my 15-1862 radio shack antenna up there. Before I moved I had exceptional reception with this antenna.

Now I cannot get a signal if I turn on the built in amplifier. With it off I get FOX 53.1, and HSN 16.1. MNT says it has perfect reception, but there is no signal when I tune to the channel. I am using Window MCE so I can see the reception quality separate from actually watching. That is what I am saying. It says there is a perfect signal, but there is nothing being broadcast basically. Those seem to be the only channels I can get.

I was just wondering if the rst of the channels are always broadcasting or not. This is the listing I am working off of. Is that list accurate as of now? Sorry I did search the thread for MNT, but it might be to short for the search algorithm to work or something.

WPXI-DT 11.1 NBC 48
WPMY-DT 42.1 MNT 42
KDKA-DT 2.1 CBS 25
WPGH-DT 53.1 FOX 43
WQED-DT 13.1 PBS 38
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN 26
WPCW-DT 49.1 CW 49
WPCB-DT 50.1 CTVN 50

I just reset the MCE files and get the following with the amp off
KDKA-DT 2.1 CBS 25
WPXI-DT 11.1 NBC 48
WQED-DT 13.1 PBS 38
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN 26
WPGH-DT 53.1 FOX 43

Since on the Labor day weekend after the telethon,WPXI supposed to have the first local news broadcast in HD, does this also mean that the channel 11 news on Fox 53 will also be in HD? :confused:

That's a very good question!

I was just wondering if the rst of the channels are always broadcasting or not. This is the listing I am working off of. Is that list accurate as of now? Sorry I did search the thread for MNT, but it might be to short for the search algorithm to work or something.

WPXI-DT 11.1 NBC 48
WPMY-DT 42.1 MNT 42
KDKA-DT 2.1 CBS 25
WPGH-DT 53.1 FOX 43
WQED-DT 13.1 PBS 38
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN 26
WPCW-DT 49.1 CW 49
WPCB-DT 50.1 CTVN 50

All of them run 24/7. WPCW doesn't have a digital transmitter going yet, and with the latest FCC ruling, it probably won't until the axe falls on analog. Roughly due south would be WTAE-DT (51/4-1 & 4-2), which is the only Pittsburgh local not on your list.

You might be able to pick up WTOV-DT (57/9-1 & 9-2) from the west-southwest, and WWCP-DT (29/8-1 & 8-2) from the southeast.

Since on the Labor day weekend after the telethon,WPXI supposed to have the first local news broadcast in HD, does this also mean that the channel 11 news on Fox 53 will also be in HD? :confused:

I'm sorry, but I don't think I can speak to that. I don't mean to be difficult or vague. I'm spending most of my time getting equipment up and running! :eek:

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

I'm sorry, but I don't think I can speak to that. I don't mean to be difficult or vague. I'm spending most of my time getting equipment up and running! :eek:

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering
If and when you have any word on this Dave, Please let us know about the Fox 53 news in HD . Thanks

Take this for what it's worth...from this morning's P-G:

WPXI delays move

Channel 11 was expected to move into its new Summer Hill facility around Labor Day, but general manager Ray Carter said the on-air premiere of the new station and new set will be delayed until the 6 p.m. news on Sept. 23 to allow more time to get everything in working order.

"We just want to get it right and not rush it," he said.

By holding off a few weeks, WPXI also avoids jockeying for viewer attention with WTAE, which plans to debut a new set of its own on Sept. 4.

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07232/810739-237.stm

I have to wonder what this will do to the already challenged HD picture quality on the main channel.

(I also posted this link in the Pittsburgh - Comcast thread since the article says it will be carried there.)

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07232/810739-237.stm

I have to wonder what this will do to the already challenged HD picture quality on the main channel.

(I also posted this link in the Pittsburgh - Comcast thread since the article says it will be carried there.)

Please don't worry about quality. I think you'll be pleased...really.

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07232/810739-237.stm

I have to wonder what this will do to the already challenged HD picture quality on the main channel.

I've seen RTN stations (full power, LPTV, and subchannels) on satellite, and the format of the network is similar to TV Land. I'd rather have seen PCNC go on 11-3, for those of us that dispise cable TV companies, but that'd be a violation of some FCC rule no doubt. Not to mention a violation of the first "C" :D.

It's funny, Pittsburgh gets a Retro Television Network affiliate before we get an Ion, or PAX as it was originally known as, affiliate.

Please don't worry about quality. I think you'll be pleased...really.

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering



and if we're already displeased with the picture quality to begin with (sports routinely make other normal satellite hd-lite channels look good) - you're saying it won't get worse? or that it will somehow get better? :confused:

I've seen RTN stations (full power, LPTV, and subchannels) on satellite, and the format of the network is similar to TV Land. I'd rather have seen PCNC go on 11-3, for those of us that dispise cable TV companies, but that'd be a violation of some FCC rule no doubt. Not to mention a violation of the first "C" :D.

It's funny, Pittsburgh gets a Retro Television Network affiliate before we get an Ion, or PAX as it was originally known as, affiliate.

Bring back "The TUBE" Network!!

Bring back "The TUBE" Network!!

That too, but Sinclair is still using the smokescreen of the FCC mandate of E/I programming and EAS compatibility to hide what amounts to a dispute of carriage fees. That is the only reason I can see why they had to pull it off their subchannels, but other stations are still broadcasting The Tube.

and if we're already displeased with the picture quality to begin with (sports routinely make other normal satellite hd-lite channels look good) - you're saying it won't get worse? or that it will somehow get better? :confused:

I'm saying that it will get better.

Dave

I'm saying that it will get better.

Dave


thanks for clarifying. that would INDEED please me.
:)

Hey, pgh_hd_aholic.

If you lurk here, please enable your PM feature for your user. I can't PM you a reply.

Thanks.

Sorry for the intrusion on this thread :D

Living in Seven Fields, PA

using an Indoor Antenna this is what i get. Granted i have to move it to get particular channels.

KDKA-DT 2.1 CBS 25
WWCP-DT 8.1 FOX 29 Johnstown/Altoona
WATM-DT1 23.1 ABC 29
WQED-DT 13.1 PBS 38
WQED-DT 13.2 PBS 38
WQED-DT 13.3 PBS 38
WPXI-DT 11.1 NBC 48
WPXI-DT 11.2 NBC 48 (Weather)
WPMY-DT 42.1 MNT 42
WPGH-DT 53.1 FOX 43
WPGH-DT2 53.2 FOX 43 SD
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN 26
WPCB-DT 50.1 CTVN 50
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN 26

I used to struggle to get WPGH 43 but recently it seems like the signal is stronger or a slight move of my antenna helped it out. not sure. anyone have ideas?

Also I know the ABC I'm getting from Altoona/Johnstown isn't being broadcast at all in HDTV and I can't pick up WTAE at all.

Currently using a Phillips Indoor antenna PHDTV3.
Duel 2.7 GHz G5 Macintosh computer for Decryption and a
DVICO HDTV3-Gold TV Card

Living in Seven Fields, PA

using an Indoor Antenna this is what i get. Granted i have to move it to get particular channels.

KDKA-DT 2.1 CBS 25
WWCP-DT 8.1 FOX 29 Johnstown/Altoona
WATM-DT1 23.1 ABC 29
WQED-DT 13.1 PBS 38
WQED-DT 13.2 PBS 38
WQED-DT 13.3 PBS 38
WPXI-DT 11.1 NBC 48
WPXI-DT 11.2 NBC 48 (Weather)
WPMY-DT 42.1 MNT 42
WPGH-DT 53.1 FOX 43
WPGH-DT2 53.2 FOX 43 SD
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN 26
WPCB-DT 50.1 CTVN 50
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN 26

I used to struggle to get WPGH 43 but recently it seems like the signal is stronger or a slight move of my antenna helped it out. not sure. anyone have ideas?

Also I know the ABC I'm getting from Altoona/Johnstown isn't being broadcast at all in HDTV and I can't pick up WTAE at all.

Currently using a Phillips Indoor antenna PHDTV3.
Duel 2.7 GHz G5 Macintosh computer for Decryption and a
DVICO HDTV3-Gold TV Card


Welcome to the mix! I assume that you've visited www.antennaweb.org to check on your specific address location. I use a Radio Shack DA-5200 amplified antenna ($50) to pull in a bit more than is on your list. Depending upon which part of Seven Fields you are in, elevation makes all of the difference. That is, you'll do better up by Franklin Road than you will down by 228. Anyway, I'm surprised that you are not pulling in anything from Youngstown. Point your antenna that way, and try for 20 (WFMJ), 41 (WKBN), 45 (WNEO) or even 36 (WYTV -- a bit of a challenge.) I have my antenna on a rotor up in my attic to optimize signals, as all channels need the antenna pointed in different directions. Try pointing a bit more south to get WTAE. I don't understand your problem with 53 -- that's one of the easiest and strongest signals for me. Again, look at your street map on antennaweb.org for help. Happy hunting!

Just a comment on the verge of insanity....

Anyone noticing on KDKA-DT that some of the commercials are NOT playing all of the 'audio?' It sounds like some of the commercials have just the background track playing.

I was watching an episode of NCIS a week or so ago, and all I could hear was the background music for about 45 minutes, then the 'vocals' finally started.

Am I imagining it?

That happens when only the L and R channels of a 5.1 program are used.

That too, but Sinclair is still using the smokescreen of the FCC mandate of E/I programming and EAS compatibility to hide what amounts to a dispute of carriage fees. That is the only reason I can see why they had to pull it off their subchannels, but other stations are still broadcasting The Tube.

Yeah, but none in the 'burgh. I am sometimes fortunate to catch an early morning glimpse of The TUBE via WUAB 43-2 from Cleveland, but I lose the signal as the sun comes up. When I first had OTA, The Tube was on probably 50% of the time. I'm one of those people who remembers when MTV actually had something on it called "music videos."

Folks,

im in mt lebanon, in a valley, so reception has been spotty come spring. and i was never able to get wtae. i used to be able to get 2.1kdka, 11.1wpxi, 53.1fox on my skimp db2 that was provided with my directv installation, but come spring when the trees are full, the signals would crap out on me.

so now i have the channel master 4221, and ill be darned if i can tune in kdka signal. darn signal meter goes up and down erratically and just cant hold the signal. wpxi and fox are fine. you can turn that 4221 left and right and still pick them up...a huge improvement from the db2. so here i am now, trying to ensure stillers HD in week or so and im in a bind. anyone have any suggestions? kdka used to be my best signal.

also, when i got the 4221, it was bent a little bit and i bent it back to close to normal. would the pick up of the vhf 2.1 signal be degraded somehow. do i need a new 4221?

thoughts??

Yeah, but none in the 'burgh.

Yes, unfortunately, Sinclair has the contract and will sit on it until it expires and the other big station group that carried The Tube, Tribune, has no presence here. It'd be nice if someone else picked it up, like QED Communications who could put it on 16-2 to augment their budget. Unfortunately in that case, I still wouldn't be able to watch it 90% of the time.

When I first had OTA, The Tube was on probably 50% of the time. I'm one of those people who remembers when MTV actually had something on it called "music videos."

I usually flipped to it between commercials. A music video channel that actually carried music videos...what a concept! :D

Folks,

im in mt lebanon, in a valley, so reception has been spotty come spring. and i was never able to get wtae. i used to be able to get 2.1kdka, 11.1wpxi, 53.1fox on my skimp db2 that was provided with my directv installation, but come spring when the trees are full, the signals would crap out on me.

so now i have the channel master 4221, and ill be darned if i can tune in kdka signal. darn signal meter goes up and down erratically and just cant hold the signal. wpxi and fox are fine. you can turn that 4221 left and right and still pick them up...a huge improvement from the db2. so here i am now, trying to ensure stillers HD in week or so and im in a bind. anyone have any suggestions? kdka used to be my best signal.

also, when i got the 4221, it was bent a little bit and i bent it back to close to normal. would the pick up of the vhf 2.1 signal be degraded somehow. do i need a new 4221?

thoughts??

KDKA broadcasts their digital signal on RF 25, do you get WQEX (RF 26)? That should be close enough in frequency to let you know if it is the antenna that cannot pick up those frequencies due to damage.

from the PG:
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07243/813501-237.stm

beam me up Scotty....

from the PG:
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07243/813501-237.stm

beam me up Scotty....

Oh boy,
Now we can hear about
-- Tenth anniversary of Diana's passing
-- Two year Katrina anniversary
-- One year anniversary of O'Connor passing
... all in hi-def (and they call that stuff "news"?)!

yay... as usual, someone at kdka fallas asleep at the switch and the us open coverage is dropped to SD @ 5pm

yay... as usual, someone at kdka fallas asleep at the switch and the us open coverage is dropped to SD @ 5pm

besides that, the first hour had some serious audio issues.

besides that, the first hour had some serious audio issues.

wasn't aware of that, only started watching around 4pm (playing tennis in person since noon! :cool:).

but seriously, is this 2007 or 2001? this kind of problem(s) should be long gone by now

yay... as usual, someone at kdka fallas asleep at the switch and the us open coverage is dropped to SD @ 5pm

Then they could say the transitions from CBS to local commercials and vice-versa are smooth :D.

Big golf day tomorrow. The PGA tour is in the second week of the playoffs. Tiger and Phil are being paired together in the next to last group. It will be a great finish.

Here in Pittsburgh we'll be watching a fund raiser for 10 hours instead.

Thank's WPXI.

Big golf day tomorrow. The PGA tour is in the second week of the playoffs. Tiger and Phil are being paired together in the next to last group. It will be a great finish.

Here in Pittsburgh we'll be watching a fund raiser for 10 hours instead.

Thank's WPXI.

Fellow Cox stations WJAC and WTOV are carrying the final round.

Fellow Cox stations WJAC and WTOV are carrying the final round.

That sure doesn't help for those of us that have only WPXI through DirecTV. I know that I won't be watching anything on WPXI again. Alternative arrangements should have been made!

WPXI actually transferred the feed for the golf match to WBGN. I never saw any notice about it, but a little searching found it (thank you Allan).

Thank you WPXI (although it would have been nice to have advance warning so I could have set up my Tivo for the beginning).

That sure doesn't help for those of us that have only WPXI through DirecTV.

No, but this is the "Pittsburgh, PA - OTA" thread, so I assume most here would be receiving the locals via an antenna and neighboring markets depending on where in DMA #22 you reside.

Not only are you not locked into the OTA stations the FCC says you have to watch, but you get a first generation signal and without handing more money over to whomever owns DirecTV this week.

It's been quite awhile since I did an OTA channel scan, so I just did one to see what's new. Got some strange results.

KDKA-HD still comes in on 2-1, but it also comes in on 25-2, 53-1 and 53-2. The strange thing is that I have duplicates for the last two, since that is also the assignment for WPGH HD. So, I have two channels for 53-1 and two for 53-2.

WPMY-HD still comes in on 22-1 and 22-2, but it also comes in on 42-1 and 42-2.

WQED-HD has its normal stable of 13-1, 13-2 and 13-3, but it is also on 38-4

Any ideas on what is going on?

Not only are you not locked into the OTA stations the FCC says you have to watch,

You mean that the FCC is now dictating that I have to watch OTA stations!! They are really going too far.:)

You mean that the FCC is now dictating that I have to watch OTA stations!! They are really going too far.:)

Through a DBS system they do, but I defy them to say I can't watch WJAC-6 or WTOV-9 with my antenna :D.

On the satellite systems in Canada, no matter what your postal code, you can watch TV stations from any corner of the country.

It's been quite awhile since I did an OTA channel scan, so I just did one to see what's new. Got some strange results.

KDKA-HD still comes in on 2-1, but it also comes in on 25-2, 53-1 and 53-2. The strange thing is that I have duplicates for the last two, since that is also the assignment for WPGH HD. So, I have two channels for 53-1 and two for 53-2.

WPMY-HD still comes in on 22-1 and 22-2, but it also comes in on 42-1 and 42-2.

WQED-HD has its normal stable of 13-1, 13-2 and 13-3, but it is also on 38-4

Any ideas on what is going on?

The duplicates that you are receiving are the actual channels that the stations broadcast their digital signals, and the "2-1, 53-1, 13-1, etc." are the virtual channels that are rendered via the PSIP code in the signal. Usually when there is interference or something wrong at the station, my set will lose the virtual channel and default to the real channel but the total number in its memory remains the same.

I have discovered via my WinTV-HVR and a program called TSReader (http://www.coolstf.com/tsreader/) that only KDKA and WPXI have their multiplexes set up correctly. WTAE, WPMY, WPCB, and WPGH number their main channel "-3" instead of "-1" and the subchannels "-4."

The duplicates that you are receiving are the actual channels that the stations broadcast their digital signals, and the "2-1, 53-1, 13-1, etc." are the virtual channels that are rendered via the PSIP code in the signal. Usually when there is interference or something wrong at the station, my set will lose the virtual channel and default to the real channel but the total number in its memory remains the same.

I have discovered via my WinTV-HVR and a program called TSReader (http://www.coolstf.com/tsreader/) that only KDKA and WPXI have their multiplexes set up correctly. WTAE, WPMY, WPCB, and WPGH number their main channel "-3" instead of "-1" and the subchannels "-4."

I had always heard that KDKA was transmitting on 25.1 with a virtual mapping to 2.1 thru the PSIP, but just couldn't figure out where the duplicate (triplicate?) at 53.1 was coming from, especially since my TV now has two channels 53.1, one for KDKA and one for WPGH.

Folks,

im in mt lebanon, in a valley, so reception has been spotty come spring. and i was never able to get wtae. i used to be able to get 2.1kdka, 11.1wpxi, 53.1fox on my skimp db2 that was provided with my directv installation, but come spring when the trees are full, the signals would crap out on me.

so now i have the channel master 4221, and ill be darned if i can tune in kdka signal. darn signal meter goes up and down erratically and just cant hold the signal. wpxi and fox are fine. you can turn that 4221 left and right and still pick them up...a huge improvement from the db2. so here i am now, trying to ensure stillers HD in week or so and im in a bind. anyone have any suggestions? kdka used to be my best signal.

also, when i got the 4221, it was bent a little bit and i bent it back to close to normal. would the pick up of the vhf 2.1 signal be degraded somehow. do i need a new 4221?

thoughts??
Sorry for not reading this and getting back to you earlier. My guess is that you're suffering from multipath issues (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6650906&&#post6650906).

There are a couple things you can do. The first is to buy an attenuator, which will cut down on the echos and allow the receiver to lock onto the original signal better. The other is to use a jointenna (http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/Jointennas.htm) with your old antenna.

I have discovered via my WinTV-HVR and a program called TSReader (http://www.coolstf.com/tsreader/) that only KDKA and WPXI have their multiplexes set up correctly. WTAE, WPMY, WPCB, and WPGH number their main channel "-3" instead of "-1" and the subchannels "-4."

You forgot to mention the best part of TSReader Lite...it's free! It is a very cool poor-man's bit stream analyzer.

Dave Morrison
WPXI Engineering

I had always heard that KDKA was transmitting on 25.1 with a virtual mapping to 2.1 thru the PSIP, but just couldn't figure out where the duplicate (triplicate?) at 53.1 was coming from, especially since my TV now has two channels 53.1, one for KDKA and one for WPGH.

That's strange. My set only has 2-1 and the 53-1/53-2 duo in its memory, with no cross over. I'd either try another rescan or just delete KDKA and WPGH then put 25 and 43 in manually and see if that fixes the problem.

You forgot to mention the best part of TSReader Lite...it's free! It is a very cool poor-man's bit stream analyzer.

Can't beat the price :). It is interesting to see what the various components are in the data streams.

Just for fun, I wondered where the optimum place would be to receive the maximum amount of TV signals here in the 'burgh. So I used antennaweb.org to check out a location I sometimes drive by on my way home from work, as it is up in elevation pretty high (yes, antennaweb can show you stations that you should get, and you sometimes get stations that aren't on the list, but it's the only objective site I know to use for this purpose.)

So I submit Fairway Road, near Sewickley Heights Golf Course (zip 15143). I typed in the address of the course, 126 Backbone, then moved west to the end of Fairway Road. Here is a list of what antennaweb produces. Note two Cleveland VHF stations show up on the list. Can anyone top this?

WPGH 53 FOX PITTSBURGH PA
WPGH-DT 53.1 FOX PITTSBURGH PA
WTOV-DT 9.1 NBC STEUBENVILLE OH
WPXI 11 NBC PITTSBURGH PA
WPXI-DT 11.1 NBC PITTSBURGH PA
KDKA 2 CBS PITTSBURGH PA
KDKA-DT 2.1 CBS PITTSBURGH PA
WPMY-DT 42.1 MNT PITTSBURGH PA
WPCW-DT 49.1 CW JEANNETTE PA
WQED 13 PBS PITTSBURGH PA
WQED-DT 13.1 PBS PITTSBURGH PA
WQEX 16 HSN PITTSBURGH PA
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN PITTSBURGH PA
WTAE-DT 4.1 ABC PITTSBURGH PA
WKBN-DT 27.1 CBS YOUNGSTOWN OH
WKBN 27 CBS YOUNGSTOWN OH
WTAE 4 ABC PITTSBURGH PA
W66BQ 66 IND BEAVER PA
WTOV 9 NBC STEUBENVILLE OH
WPTG-LP 69 BOX PITTSBURGH PA
WBGN-LP 59 IND PITTSBURGH PA
WPCW 19 CW JEANNETTE PA
WPCB 40 CTVN GREENSBURG PA
WPMY 22 MNT PITTSBURGH PA
WWBP-LP 25 BOX FREEDOM PA
WFMJ-DT 21.1 NBC YOUNGSTOWN OH
WFMJ 21 NBC YOUNGSTOWN OH
WBYD-CA 35 BOX JOHNSTOWN PA
WIIC-LP 29 BOX PITTSBURGH PA
WTRF 7 CBS WHEELING WV
WNEO 45 PBS ALLIANCE OH
WPCB-DT 50.1 CTVN GREENSBURG PA
WJAC 6 NBC JOHNSTOWN PA
WWCP 8 FOX JOHNSTOWN PA
WWCP-DT 8.1 FOX JOHNSTOWN PA
WYFX-LP 62 FOX YOUNGSTOWN OH
WYTV 33 ABC YOUNGSTOWN OH
W65CG 65 TBN PITTSBURGH PA
WKYC 3 NBC CLEVELAND OH
WEWS 5 ABC CLEVELAND OH
WNEO-DT 46.1 PBS ALLIANCE OH

thanks for the heads up. can you advise on what db attenuator to get? in fact, im trying to search for them on radioshack.com and there are no listings for any.

also another interesting change of events, my direct tv tuner hr10-250 is not even showing signal strength anymore for any channels, although 43fox and 48wpxi come in fine. 25kdka is still spotty/jumbled

thanks for the heads up. can you advise on what db attenuator to get? in fact, im trying to search for them on radioshack.com and there are no listings for any.

also another interesting change of events, my direct tv tuner hr10-250 is not even showing signal strength anymore for any channels, although 43fox and 48wpxi come in fine. 25kdka is still spotty/jumbled

Sorry to keep peppering the forum with the same material.....I got a heads up from a response a few posts back (THANKS!) that I should try an atennuator because my channel master 4221 (4 bowtie) may be picking up TOO MUCH since I live in Mt Lebanon (and only 6 miles from downtown). My problem could be that although Im getting a supersignal (95%) from the WPXI and FOX antennas, that supersignal may be cancelling out my KDKA (which was fluttering from ZERO to 80). I previously had a DB2 (little guy that I got with my DirecTV) and I used to be able to get all three (at least until the trees get leaves on them in the summer).

All that said, since Im in Mt Lebanon, does it makes sense that would I pick up WPXI and FOX a whole lot better because they are closer than KDKA. Im just trying to narrow down the problem. im a novice. thanks!

Sorry to keep peppering the forum with the same material.....I got a heads up from a response a few posts back (THANKS!) that I should try an atennuator because my channel master 4221 (4 bowtie) may be picking up TOO MUCH since I live in Mt Lebanon (and only 6 miles from downtown). My problem could be that although Im getting a supersignal (95%) from the WPXI and FOX antennas, that supersignal may be cancelling out my KDKA (which was fluttering from ZERO to 80). I previously had a DB2 (little guy that I got with my DirecTV) and I used to be able to get all three (at least until the trees get leaves on them in the summer).

All that said, since Im in Mt Lebanon, does it makes sense that would I pick up WPXI and FOX a whole lot better because they are closer than KDKA. Im just trying to narrow down the problem. im a novice. thanks!

Here ya go:


http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?prod=TA-8700 (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?prod=TA-8700)

So I submit Fairway Road, near Sewickley Heights Golf Course (zip 15143). I typed in the address of the course, 126 Backbone, then moved west to the end of Fairway Road. Here is a list of what antennaweb produces. Note two Cleveland VHF stations show up on the list. Can anyone top this?

Try these coordinates: 40.5949, -80.2612

It should produce a list something like this:

WPGH 53 FOX PITTSBURGH PA
WPGH-DT 53.1 FOX PITTSBURGH PA
WTOV-DT 9.1 NBC STEUBENVILLE OH
WPXI 11 NBC PITTSBURGH PA
WPXI-DT 11.1 NBC PITTSBURGH PA
WPMY-DT 42.1 MNT PITTSBURGH PA
KDKA 2 CBS PITTSBURGH PA
KDKA-DT 2.1 CBS PITTSBURGH PA
WPCW-DT 49.1 CW JEANNETTE PA
WQED 13 PBS PITTSBURGH PA
WQED-DT 13.1 PBS PITTSBURGH PA
WQEX 16 HSN PITTSBURGH PA
WQEX-DT 16.1 HSN PITTSBURGH PA
WTAE-DT 4.1 ABC PITTSBURGH PA
WPCB 40 CTVN GREENSBURG PA
WPCB-DT 50.1 CTVN GREENSBURG PA
WKBN 27 CBS YOUNGSTOWN OH
WKBN-DT 27.1 CBS YOUNGSTOWN OH
WTAE 4 ABC PITTSBURGH PA
WFMJ-DT 21.1 NBC YOUNGSTOWN OH
W66BQ 66 IND BEAVER PA
WTOV 9 NBC STEUBENVILLE OH
W65CG 65 TBN PITTSBURGH PA
WBGN-LP 59 IND PITTSBURGH PA
WPTG-LP 69 BOX PITTSBURGH PA
WPMY 22 MNT PITTSBURGH PA
WTRF 7 CBS WHEELING WV
WNEO 45 PBS ALLIANCE OH
WWBP-LP 25 BOX FREEDOM PA
WWCP-DT 8.1 FOX JOHNSTOWN PA
WFMJ 21 NBC YOUNGSTOWN OH
W58AM 58 PBS YOUNGSTOWN, ETC. OH
WYFX-LP 62 FOX YOUNGSTOWN OH
WYTV 33 ABC YOUNGSTOWN OH
W56CL 56 IND NEW CASTLE PA
WBYD-CA 35 BOX JOHNSTOWN PA
WIIC-LP 29 BOX PITTSBURGH PA
W56CG 56 IND GREENSBURG PA
WPCW 19 CW JEANNETTE PA
WWCP 8 FOX JOHNSTOWN PA
WJAC 6 NBC JOHNSTOWN PA
WEWS 5 ABC CLEVELAND OH
WKYC 3 NBC CLEVELAND OH
WNPB 24 PBS MORGANTOWN WV
W41AA 41 PBS WHEELING WV
WNEO-DT 46.1 PBS ALLIANCE OH
WYTV-DT 33.1 ABC YOUNGSTOWN OH

Try these coordinates: 40.5949, -80.2612

I used a site called 2150.com and came up with this (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=40%2E5949&longitude=%2D80%2E2612&magnetic_north=%2D13%2E25&range=150&sort=channel&show_expired=False&show_construction=False&show_analog=False&show_low_power=False&action=Show+Stations) report.

I used a site called 2150.com and came up with this (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=40%2E5949&longitude=%2D80%2E2612&magnetic_north=%2D13%2E25&range=150&sort=channel&show_expired=False&show_construction=False&show_analog=False&show_low_power=False&action=Show+Stations) report.

What is that site? First of all, why does it only show CW-19 as the only Pittsburgh station? And why is it that, no matter what distance you type in, all of the stations within that distance come in. For example, type a range of 200 miles, and look at all of the Canadian stations that make the list. I am skeptical of this site's results, in my opinion (with regard to reception abilities, not the station distance from the location you type in.)

Try these coordinates: 40.5949, -80.2612


Where is this? If you look at the street map on antennaweb.org, it does not show any streets or other markers. Very neat location, though!!

What is that site? First of all, why does it only show CW-19 as the only Pittsburgh station? And why is it that, no matter what distance you type in, all of the stations within that distance come in. For example, type a range of 200 miles, and look at all of the Canadian stations that make the list. I am skeptical of this site's results, in my opinion (with regard to reception abilities, not the station distance from the location you type in.)

I forget where I had heard about it, but it is supposed to be like antennaweb.org. I don't know why their default is 200 miles and not something less that is more realistic.

I just bought a TV with a digital tuner and hooked it up to my roof antenna, a very large traditional style. I don't have a rotor, but, I have been up and down the roof rotating 5 degrees at a time in a 180 degree arc - I am 2 miles away from Johnstown Channel 8, so it comes in fine (so does their 8.002 ABC affiliate simulcast).

The only signal I can get from the Pittsburgh market, and it's spotty at times, is WPXI - 48-001, 48-002.

Is this the best I can expect to get here? Do I need a new antenna? Help!

Thanks,
Tom

I just bought a TV with a digital tuner and hooked it up to my roof antenna, a very large traditional style. I don't have a rotor, but, I have been up and down the roof rotating 5 degrees at a time in a 180 degree arc - I am 2 miles away from Johnstown Channel 8, so it comes in fine (so does their 8.002 ABC affiliate simulcast).

The only signal I can get from the Pittsburgh market, and it's spotty at times, is WPXI - 48-001, 48-002.

Is this the best I can expect to get here? Do I need a new antenna? Help!

Thanks,
Tom

Welcome to the wonderful world of digital tv! You should be able to receive WTAJ -10 (32D) and WPSU 3.1 3.2 3.3 aiming your antenna with a rotor. Rg6 coax is recommended . A UHF only antenna such as a 4228 CM or a 91 XG Antenna will do the trick for you. Let us know the results, now get up on that roof before the snow flies and install your new antenna.

Is channel 19 (analog) off the air for any one else with OTA?

I just bought a TV with a digital tuner and hooked it up to my roof antenna, a very large traditional style. I don't have a rotor, but, I have been up and down the roof rotating 5 degrees at a time in a 180 degree arc - I am 2 miles away from Johnstown Channel 8, so it comes in fine (so does their 8.002 ABC affiliate simulcast).

The only signal I can get from the Pittsburgh market, and it's spotty at times, is WPXI - 48-001, 48-002.

Is this the best I can expect to get here? Do I need a new antenna? Help!


If you're surrounded by trees and/or hills, they can wreak havoc with digital broadcasting. Since you mention you are two miles from the WWCP transmitter, I'm guessing you're near Jennerstown.

The next time you are at your antenna, check to make sure there is no rust on the contacts where the cable to your TV is connected to the antenna. You might have to replace that line if it is RG-59 which has higher loss than RG-6 and try a pre-amp to see if the signals that are coming in are not being lost on the run.

Also, make sure there is no damage to the antenna itself which could be causing reception problems before you resort to replacement. If you have to replace it, go with a VHF/UHF antenna since stations such as WWCP and WQED will be returning to their current analog slots after 2/17/2009.

Is channel 19 (analog) off the air for any one else with OTA?

It's coming in here now.

KDKA has dropped the ball! No HD on todays Steeler game. Lucky I can get WTAJ out of Johnstown. They have it in HD.

Talked to George at KDKA, he said it is a satellite malfunction on CBS's part and they are working on fixing it.

Thanks daverph1! I hope they get it fixed soon.

Talked to George at KDKA, he said it is a satellite malfunction on CBS's part and they are working on fixing it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Try WTAJ from Johnstown. I don't know if you can get from your area but it's worth a try. They have the game in HD right now.

Fixed! Steelers are in HD again now...

thank god they fixed it... had on comcast and was ticked it wasn't in HD...then turned on OTA and it was no better... thank goodness for the HD signal now though!!!

Woo-hoo! Thanks guys.

Thanks for the replies; I have done some additional experementation....by turning the antenna to 50 degrees (Pittsburgh is approx 300 degrees) compass bearing, I got Channel 6 (D?) and channel 8. No luck with WTAJ-10 - is that a CBS affiliate? If so, I might abandon the Pittsburgh orientation and just go with the Alleghenies stuff...I get Fox & ABC via channel 8 / 23 digitial multicast, can get the NBC via channel 6 (plus that rather odd weather channel...I guess it's something...)

Yes, I am near jennerstown but on the Ligonier side of the mountain - much closer to Laughlintown, so almost all the way down.

I hooked up a preamp at the mast and line amp yesterday but they didn't have any effect. So I went back to the RG-6 line straight from the antenna to the TV, the best I can get is either Channel 11 (D48) from Pittsburgh but it breaks up a bit at times or the Channel 6 from Johnstown. When I run the signal through the rest of the old run, no digitial signals make it through to the TV with the exception of Channel 8 ( since we're so close, it even comes in with no antenna).

Ideally, I'd like to get Fox, ABC, NBC, CBS, and PBS from one antenna...I thought the Pittsburgh stuff would do it, but maybe there are too many trees here or I'm too far away. UHF has always been tough here.

Is Channel 13 broadcasting the digitial signal at full power?

THere is much fo rme to learn, but I am really happy that we made the switch to digital TV. We're not big TV watchers, but, the clearer picture is very impressive. We watched KDKA analog for the Steelers game today, and I'm already spoiled.

My plan is to get a UHF antenna aim it at Pittsburgh, run new coax lines and see what we get.

I know I have a bunch of questions - does anyone know if the Johnstown market is served by a PBS station other than channel 3 from State College? With the antenna "just so" they come in fuzzy, but no better than WQED.

Tom

Thanks for the replies; I have done some additional experementation....by turning the antenna to 50 degrees (Pittsburgh is approx 300 degrees) compass bearing, I got Channel 6 (D?) and channel 8. No luck with WTAJ-10 - is that a CBS affiliate? If so, I might abandon the Pittsburgh orientation and just go with the Alleghenies stuff...I get Fox & ABC via channel 8 / 23 digitial multicast, can get the NBC via channel 6 (plus that rather odd weather channel...I guess it's something...)

Yes, I am near jennerstown but on the Ligonier side of the mountain - much closer to Laughlintown, so almost all the way down.

Yes, WTAJ is the CBS affiliate for the Johnstown/Altoona market. I'm just down 30 from you near the Latrobe area and I can only get 10 but not its digital alter ego at 32. Terrain is the biggest problem in that the signal has to cross two mountain ridges to reach eastern Westmoreland County. WJAC-DT still eludes me.

I hooked up a preamp at the mast and line amp yesterday but they didn't have any effect. So I went back to the RG-6 line straight from the antenna to the TV, the best I can get is either Channel 11 (D48) from Pittsburgh but it breaks up a bit at times or the Channel 6 from Johnstown. When I run the signal through the rest of the old run, no digitial signals make it through to the TV with the exception of Channel 8 ( since we're so close, it even comes in with no antenna).

Ideally, I'd like to get Fox, ABC, NBC, CBS, and PBS from one antenna...I thought the Pittsburgh stuff would do it, but maybe there are too many trees here or I'm too far away. UHF has always been tough here.

That is probably the main reason. Since all of the stations currently use the UHF band, and being that Laughlintown has numerous trees, its situated in a valley, your track record with UHF, it'll be a tall order.

Is Channel 13 broadcasting the digitial signal at full power?

No, they are still below full power. I get them every so often.

I know I have a bunch of questions - does anyone know if the Johnstown market is served by a PBS station other than channel 3 from State College? With the antenna "just so" they come in fuzzy, but no better than WQED.

The eastern side of the market can probably get WITF-33 out of Harrisburg, but not on this side of the Appalachians.

TO JK: 19 is back now for me. Makes me wonder if something was interfering. Hmmmm... I guess. Thanks.

TO TJM70: I think you might just be in one of those really awful spots we get in Western PA. I suspect you may not see PBS without either getting a better antenna (to get WPSU) or until WQED switches its digital over to channel 13 in 2009 (the signal will get down into the valleys better).

WQED-DT is not at a full 1000 kw and probably isn't going to boost its signal now when it plans to go back to channel 13 in a little over a year anyhow.

Thanks for the replies; I have done some additional experementation....by turning the antenna to 50 degrees (Pittsburgh is approx 300 degrees) compass bearing, I got Channel 6 (D?) and channel 8. No luck with WTAJ-10 - is that a CBS affiliate? If so, I might abandon the Pittsburgh orientation and just go with the Alleghenies stuff...I get Fox & ABC via channel 8 / 23 digitial multicast, can get the NBC via channel 6 (plus that rather odd weather channel...I guess it's something...)

Yes, I am near jennerstown but on the Ligonier side of the mountain - much closer to Laughlintown, so almost all the way down.

I hooked up a preamp at the mast and line amp yesterday but they didn't have any effect. So I went back to the RG-6 line straight from the antenna to the TV, the best I can get is either Channel 11 (D48) from Pittsburgh but it breaks up a bit at times or the Channel 6 from Johnstown. When I run the signal through the rest of the old run, no digitial signals make it through to the TV with the exception of Channel 8 ( since we're so close, it even comes in with no antenna).

Ideally, I'd like to get Fox, ABC, NBC, CBS, and PBS from one antenna...I thought the Pittsburgh stuff would do it, but maybe there are too many trees here or I'm too far away. UHF has always been tough here.

Is Channel 13 broadcasting the digitial signal at full power?

THere is much fo rme to learn, but I am really happy that we made the switch to digital TV. We're not big TV watchers, but, the clearer picture is very impressive. We watched KDKA analog for the Steelers game today, and I'm already spoiled.

My plan is to get a UHF antenna aim it at Pittsburgh, run new coax lines and see what we get.

I know I have a bunch of questions - does anyone know if the Johnstown market is served by a PBS station other than channel 3 from State College? With the antenna "just so" they come in fuzzy, but no better than WQED.

Tom

Yes WTAJ 10 Digital (32) is CBS , I even receive it from Pittsburgh, so you with an unblocked sky should receive it fine.Try Sept 18th and 19th after 8:00 pm to lock onto WTAJ's signal. I suggest this time for the Troposphere forcast is good on those 2 days.WPSU 3 is 15 Digital. I have not had good luck with in line amps. I use a straight RG6 feed (short as possible) to my antenna. Also all RG6 cables are not created equal. I have had 5 different runs up the antenna. My last experiment was with RG6 Quad shield and I had terrible results, probably a bad cable .You have to do a LOT of experimenting, but in the the end it is worth it. Please continue to keep us informed on your progress.

Where is this? If you look at the street map on antennaweb.org, it does not show any streets or other markers. Very neat location, though!!

It's no particular place that I know of. I simply ran some simulations and looked at which spots had the highest channel count. Most places with high altitude work out well, and then it's a matter of finding spots that are within range of a lot of Ohio stations. There are several locations that are about equally good.

Best regards,
Andy

Two questions:
1) Is PBS 45/49 out of Youngstown running at reduced power? Until recently, I could pick that up quite easily, now it is a chore to pinpoint my antenna to receive an un-pixeled picture.

2) Is it just me, or is 08-02 (WATM ABC Johnstown) in the black? I get WWCP 08-01 fine, but nothing on 08-02. Been that way for a while now.

Thank you!!

8.2 has been having issues for a few days. It disappeared completely a few days ago and now it is back up with only PSIP data.

Two questions:
1) Is PBS 45/49 out of Youngstown running at reduced power? Until recently, I could pick that up quite easily, now it is a chore to pinpoint my antenna to receive an un-pixeled picture.

2) Is it just me, or is 08-02 (WATM ABC Johnstown) in the black? I get WWCP 08-01 fine, but nothing on 08-02. Been that way for a while now.

Thank you!!

Yeppers, black as my ex-wife's heart.
I just talked to the guy running master control at WWCP and he was not aware 8-2 was down, but promised to let the engineering department know. :) My guess is that the engineering folks do know. OTOH, having worked in that business for some time, I would not be shocked top learn they were not aware. (Most likely guess is they only monitor the 8-1 and 23-1 signals at master control for QC.)

Two questions:
1) Is PBS 45/49 out of Youngstown running at reduced power? Until recently, I could pick that up quite easily, now it is a chore to pinpoint my antenna to receive an un-pixeled picture. <snip>

I think it is running at normal power levels, but I don't know for sure. WNEO-DT's transmitter is located three miles west of Salem along U.S. route 62. Salem is about 20 miles southwest of Youngstown. Atmospheric conditions may be changing somewhat as we're entering Fall. The Cleveland stations' signal levels were lower at my location (Salem, OH) yesterday morning.

anyone else not getting SHARK in HD ?
sick and tired of KDKA crap.

It's in HD on WKBN-DT, Youngstown. However, it is not in sync with KDKA-DT. It probably has something to do with west coast NFL games that lasted past 7:00 P.M.

anyone else not getting SHARK in HD ?
sick and tired of KDKA crap.

No Sharky HD goodness at WTAJ in Altoona either. This time it does not appear to be KDKA's fault.

WATM has returned to the air on WWCP's 8-2.

Is this WTAE's fault or DirecTV's? Their MPEG4 feed of DANCING WITH THE STARS is mostly in SD. Periodically it will momentarily switch to HD, the picture will freeze, and then 5-10 seconds later it will revert back to the SD feed. Right now we're about 20 minutes in and it looks pretty bad.

Is this WTAE's fault or DirecTV's? Their MPEG4 feed of DANCING WITH THE STARS is mostly in SD. Periodically it will momentarily switch to HD, the picture will freeze, and then 5-10 seconds later it will revert back to the SD feed. Right now we're about 20 minutes in and it looks pretty bad.

Okay, the DirecTV feed switched to the "Technical Difficulties" screen about 45 minutes in, and it's still there. OTA looks fine. DirecTV--

Well, by shortening the RG6 run and raising up the antenna 5 more feet (now about 8 feet above the peak of the roof) I am having better results although not perfect yet.

KDKA DT comes in sometimes good other times it breaks up. WTAE-DT is no where to be seen. WPXI seems to have disappeared, too.

However, the good news is that WQED 001, 002, and 003 are all coming in reliably well now. So are 53 and 22 (forget their call letters...both are rather useless). WWCP (29) 001 (fox) and 002 (ABC) are great, too.

I bought another UHF only antenna and want to try to pickup WJAC...what is the best way to connect the antennas together? The instructions call for flat twin lead between the 2 antennas and only 1 75 Ohm coax connection. Tried this with zero results.

My goal is to get the 3 major networks and PBS...anything else is gravy. I don't know if I can pull it off.

Anyone else having issues with receiving WTAE's main HD feed via OTA right now?? We're getting the SD channel fine and we're getting 4.2 with weather/traffic just fine. We haven't had any issues before just all of the sudden tonight 4.1 is nothing but a black screen whether I try it directly through our TV or through the HR20 D* box????

Anyone else having issues with receiving WTAE's main HD feed via OTA right now?? We're getting the SD channel fine and we're getting 4.2 with weather/traffic just fine. We haven't had any issues before just all of the sudden tonight 4.1 is nothing but a black screen whether I try it directly through our TV or through the HR20 D* box????

Yep, I get the same, the "No video or audio" message comes up on my TV.

Yep, I get the same, the "No video or audio" message comes up on my TV.

Thanks, well at least I know it's likely not my equipment. Now they just need to get it fixed before 9PM when the DVR is supposed to record Grey's for my wife..... :confused:

Yep, I get the same, the "No video or audio" message comes up on my TV.

Same for me earlier, it appears to be back now.

Oops, just went back out to the living room and now its back on??? Weird, it was off for at least a good 45 minutes or so I believe. Oh well, just glad it's back. Now I don't have to try and find a VHS tape and fire up one of the VCR's. :D

Has anyone had any luck in using an indoor antenna? I'm looking at the Terk brands right now.

Has anyone had any luck in using an indoor antenna? I'm looking at the Terk brands right now.

I experimented with a Terk indoor to see if they were any good, but couldn't pull in anything. However, a lot of that has to due with all of the transmitters being 30-40 miles away. I guess if you're practically on top of the sticks, it is a different story.

I heard about this on the Washington/Baltimore page, so I thought I would check it out on The Tube's site (http://www.thetubetv.com/) for myself:

Dear friend of THE TUBE Music Network,

We regret to inform you of the fate that has befallen The Tube Music Network. October 1, 2007 The Tube ceased its national broadcast.

Viewers, Artists, Music Companies, Investors, Business Partners, TV stations, Cable companies, Advertisers , Friends and our creative partners @Radical Media - your support of The Tube has always been highly valued and appreciated. The collective efforts of this team, fueled by the letters we received from viewers, sustained THE TUBE as it struggled through the financial limitations that ultimately contributed to its incapacitated state.

Thank you for inviting The Tube Music Network into your life.

Sincerely,

The Tube Music Network staff

So thank you Sinclair for helping to kill a music video channel that, shockingly, played music videos! :mad: Why not celebrate by slapping a few more SD simulcasts up!

Is the FCC's push to put WPCW's digital on VHF 11 final, or does the station plan to appeal? Any sense of when they're going to get their digital transmission going?

Now that Reaper is on, I have an excuse to want the CW in HD.

Is the FCC's push to put WPCW's digital on VHF 11 final, or does the station plan to appeal? Any sense of when they're going to get their digital transmission going?

Considering CBS doesn't want 30, WLLS-LP doesn't want them having 49, it appears that the compromise is 11. Unfortunately that means we won't see it until Dave pulls the plug on WPXI's analog transmitter in 1 year, 4 months, and 16 days.

From an old Post-Gazette article it appears they have the transmitter and space leased on WPCB's tower. I'm surprised they won't just put it on KDKA's tower to save money, even though the city of license is Jeannette. It's location shouldn't be a problem of interference as it is now since WOIO in Cleveland will be on 10 and no one else will be using eleven.

I use the philliips indoor antenna. I live in Cranberry(north of Pittsburgh) and the problem i have is that Depending on the station i have to adjust the antenna.

So I can pick up CBS(KDKA-HD), NBC(WPXI HD), Fox 43(at times HD and SD) as well as
Fox 8(from Altoona/Johnstown).

I cannot pick up at all the CW or ABC (WTAE)

Also get the WQED stations which i don't watch too much.

I cannot pick up at all the CW or ABC (WTAE)

CW is not on the air yet.

From an old Post-Gazette article it appears they have the transmitter and space leased on WPCB's tower. I'm surprised they won't just put it on KDKA's tower to save money, even though the city of license is Jeannette. It's location shouldn't be a problem of interference as it is now since WOIO in Cleveland will be on 10 and no one else will be using eleven.

It would be nice to add another channel. I've heard fairly good things about fringe reception on the upper VHF channels (I'm up in Punxsy), so channel 11 is more to my liking.

So, then my understanding is that while they'll have to wait for WPXI to vacate channel 11, there is no reason they should be able to flip the switch in 2009, right?

Long time to wait. But, considering the whole transition has been pretty bumpy, this seems small in comparison. Also, they'll have experience from setting KDKA up.

If KDKA is any example, we'll be in good shape. KDKA is the only Pittsburgh channel I get solid, 100% of the time, no matter the weather. I can't imagine they'll do any worse with CW.

CW is not on the air yet.



I was -- at one point -- picking it up - though very faintly the CW on
i think it was 20.1 or 20.2? although that may have been like about a year ago.

Maybe that changed? or a different market?

And since you seem to be up on this stuff. is WTAE ever gonna increase their range or signal strength -- you think?

So, then my understanding is that while they'll have to wait for WPXI to vacate channel 11, there is no reason they should be able to flip the switch in 2009, right?

Like I said, none of the channel assignments that the FCC proposed seem to agree with everyone except eleven. I'm sure any other interim channel positions that could be proposed, someone, somewhere would complain. At this point, they might as well just flashcut on nineteen. February 17, 2009 will be here before you know it even though it may seem a long way off now.

I was -- at one point -- picking it up - though very faintly the CW on
i think it was 20.1 or 20.2? although that may have been like about a year ago.

Maybe that changed? or a different market?

WFMJ-21 Youngstown broadcasts CW affiliate WBCB on their digital signal at 21-2(20-2).

And since you seem to be up on this stuff. is WTAE ever gonna increase their range or signal strength -- you think?

I doubt they can legally go higher than 1,000kW which is where they are at currently. WTAE's propagation problem is their location in Elizabeth Township, which can be a problem if you live north of the city. Even being in Westmoreland County, I had a problem with it until I swapped my plain splitter out for a distribution amplifier.

I doubt they can legally go higher than 1,000kW which is where they are at currently. WTAE's propagation problem is their location in Elizabeth Township, which can be a problem if you live north of the city. Even being in Westmoreland County, I had a problem with it until I swapped my plain splitter out for a distribution amplifier.

A lot of stations aren't even using their full 1000kw, though. Even the ones that say their ERP is 1000. For example, over in the Johnstown thread, the WWCP station engineer said they were broadcasting at 700kw.

Now, considering I'm easily 10 miles within their service area, I shouldn't suffer the fades out on WWCP if they would use the full 1000. KDKA does use their full 1000 and I have no trouble getting them.

I use the philliips indoor antenna. I live in Cranberry(north of Pittsburgh) and the problem i have is that Depending on the station i have to adjust the antenna.

So I can pick up CBS(KDKA-HD), NBC(WPXI HD), Fox 43(at times HD and SD) as well as
Fox 8(from Altoona/Johnstown).

I cannot pick up at all the CW or ABC (WTAE)

Also get the WQED stations which i don't watch too much.
I am south of you but north of Pitts. I think I'll probably suffer a few problems with the WTAE feed but I haven't tried yet. What model do you have? Philips PM-HDTV1 Silver Sensor?

Well, by shortening the RG6 run and raising up the antenna 5 more feet (now about 8 feet above the peak of the roof) I am having better results although not perfect yet.

KDKA DT comes in sometimes good other times it breaks up. WTAE-DT is no where to be seen. WPXI seems to have disappeared, too.

However, the good news is that WQED 001, 002, and 003 are all coming in reliably well now. So are 53 and 22 (forget their call letters...both are rather useless). WWCP (29) 001 (fox) and 002 (ABC) are great, too.

I bought another UHF only antenna and want to try to pickup WJAC...what is the best way to connect the antennas together? The instructions call for flat twin lead between the 2 antennas and only 1 75 Ohm coax connection. Tried this with zero results.

My goal is to get the 3 major networks and PBS...anything else is gravy. I don't know if I can pull it off.
My advice would be to NOT connect the 2 antennas together. Feel free to try,but I think you will loose signal strength. I have found use a straight feed with no pre amps and a short run. I'm running a 10' height with a rotor.Do you have a rotor?For me this is a difference between WJAC,and WWCP by only a few degrees. Well worth the money for a rotor and they average under $80.00. Keep working on it before the weather gets bad.

I heard about this on the Washington/Baltimore page, so I thought I would check it out on The Tube's site (http://www.thetubetv.com/) for myself:



So thank you Sinclair for helping to kill a music video channel that, shockingly, played music videos! :mad: Why not celebrate by slapping a few more SD simulcasts up!

Bummer. After The TUBE left 22-2 here in town, I really enjoyed those tropo receptions of WUAB 43-2 from Cleveland to catch some videos on The TUBE. All the while holding out that someone in Pittsburgh, Youngstown, or Johnstown would pick them up on an extra channel. I guess that's not going to happen now. To celebrate this occasion, let's go watch some home shopping on 'QEX digital.

I am south of you but north of Pitts. I think I'll probably suffer a few problems with the WTAE feed but I haven't tried yet. What model do you have? Philips PM-HDTV1 Silver Sensor?

I am currently using the

Philips PHDTV3 Indoor HDTV UHF/VHF Powered Antenna
http://www.nextag.com/Philips-Silver-Sensor-PHDTV3-77180535/prices-html

I did order the new one
the Philips High Performance Amplified Indoor Antenna... gonna see how it does.
see if i can a little better performance =]

I am having difficulty with HDTV stuttering for WTAE especially during primetime show and was wondering if someone could help. (Of course, the wtae weather channel works fine.) The video stutters approximately every few seconds, but the audio is fine.

I have a large directional antenna in the attic with a pre-amp connected to a vizio lcd tv. I have tried removing the pre-amp, but it does not seem to help. I have tried moving the antenna to a different part of the attic. The wtae analog broadcast looks pretty good, but it does have a slight ghosting to the right of the image when looking at the tv and a little snow.

Another note, I previously had a little uhf antenna that I connected to the tv that received wtae just fine. I wanted to use the attic antenna, since I also have a media center pc in another room and was planning on splitting the signal from the antenna.

I am guessing that I should probably just try another location in the attic or try re-pointing the antenna.

Any other suggestions?

I am having difficulty with HDTV stuttering for WTAE especially during primetime show and was wondering if someone could help. (Of course, the wtae weather channel works fine.) The video stutters approximately every few seconds, but the audio is fine.

I have a large directional antenna in the attic with a pre-amp connected to a vizio lcd tv. I have tried removing the pre-amp, but it does not seem to help. I have tried moving the antenna to a different part of the attic. The wtae analog broadcast looks pretty good, but it does have a slight ghosting to the right of the image when looking at the tv and a little snow.

Another note, I previously had a little uhf antenna that I connected to the tv that received wtae just fine. I wanted to use the attic antenna, since I also have a media center pc in another room and was planning on splitting the signal from the antenna.

I am guessing that I should probably just try another location in the attic or try re-pointing the antenna.

Any other suggestions?


If you are overdriving the signal, inserting the splitter may help since would will see at lease a couple dB loss. If the problem is multipath, turning the antenna in different directions may improve the signal. It's more art than science.

I am having difficulty with HDTV stuttering for WTAE especially during primetime show and was wondering if someone could help. (Of course, the wtae weather channel works fine.) The video stutters approximately every few seconds, but the audio is fine.I strongly believe that WTAE has a flaw in the MPEG stream they are outputting.

I have a MythTV box (like Tivo, for those who haven't heard of MythTV), and whenever I record an HD show off of WTAE (over cable in my case), the video goes WAY out of sync with the audio (a good 20-30 seconds). Other people have mentioned problems similar to yours. I think it all depends on how fault-tolerant your tuner/decoder is.

I need to learn more about the MPEG format, then try to examine the file to see if I can figure out exactly what the problem is.

I strongly believe that WTAE has a flaw in the MPEG stream they are outputting.I'm curious, how many data points is this based on?

I used to think that KDKA had that exact problem. Then I discovered that it was the tuner I was using. Unfortunately, not all tuners work well with all stations.

I am having difficulty with HDTV stuttering for WTAE especially during primetime show and was wondering if someone could help. (Of course, the wtae weather channel works fine.) The video stutters approximately every few seconds, but the audio is fine.

I have a large directional antenna in the attic with a pre-amp connected to a vizio lcd tv. I have tried removing the pre-amp, but it does not seem to help. I have tried moving the antenna to a different part of the attic. The wtae analog broadcast looks pretty good, but it does have a slight ghosting to the right of the image when looking at the tv and a little snow.

Another note, I previously had a little uhf antenna that I connected to the tv that received wtae just fine. I wanted to use the attic antenna, since I also have a media center pc in another room and was planning on splitting the signal from the antenna.

I am guessing that I should probably just try another location in the attic or try re-pointing the antenna.

Any other suggestions?

This isn't going to make you feel any better, but I have the exact same problem with WTAE and a Vizio LCD TV. I can get the WTAE feed OTA with an antenna and also off the cable via unencrypted QAM. Both feeds are identical, and they both exibit the same stuttering problem that you are mentioning.

It is worth noting that live broadcasts do not suffer from this problem. (Good Morning America is good. Football games are good. I even watched some horse racing just to check. It was good.) I've only seen the stutter on the main primetime programming. Well, now that I think about it, I've seen it on some of the upconverted SD stuff that they show too. (Late night Alias re-runs come to mind)

I don't think you have an antenna problem. I think it is some incompatibility between WTAE's MPEG encoding and our vizio decoder. (we probably have the same decoder). BTW, I see the same problem on HD programming on WPMY too. But wait, just when you think we might have a terrible 720p flaw in the set, WPGH doesn't have the problem.

But just to confirm something you said... With the SAME set you were able to get HD WTAE primetime programming without the stutter with a smaller antenna??? That part is boggling my mind.

-justin

Thanks for the feedback. I have not been able to reposition the antenna, since we have been having such nice weather. I plan on trying the smaller antenna again to make sure that I don’t see the primetime stutter. I previously had the small antenna connected to a media center pc as well recording hdtv for a couple of years and it did not see the stutter.

My problem is very similar to Justin’s, i.e. the local news is perfect in the am/pm as well as some other broadcasts, but sometimes commercials do stutter during the broadcasts. However, the primetime hdtv still stutters horribly.

It makes me think that something is changing during the primetime programming. Since my house/antenna and wtae are not moving, it makes me think that something is changing with the signal during primetime. Does it make sense that wtae would switch between different mpeg streams/encoding for OTA broadcasts? If so, maybe it is a problem with the tv tuner decoding different streams. BTW, the vizio is a VX37L.

I have also connected the MediaCenter PC and it has the stutter as well using an ATI HDTV wonder card and the attic antenna, but for now I am just trying to get the LCD working.

It starting to make me think that maybe the idea of the attic antenna isn’t the best idea after all and maybe I should have just stuck with the small antenna :(

If a particular antenna works for you, it is definitely a reception issue rather than a compatibility issue between equipment. Keep in mind that the time of day, weather, solar activity, and even a neighbor running a ceiling fan can all affect reception.

An attic antenna is almost always better than an in-room antenna. But it is possible that the new antenna is too sensitive and is picking up reflections or interference from elsewhere. Finding the perfect antenna for a particular street address can easily take 3 or more attempts.

[QUOTE=dxernut;11302513]Since on the Labor day weekend after the telethon,WPXI supposed to have the first local news broadcast in HD, does this also mean that the channel 11 news on Fox 53 will also be in HD? :confused:[/QU CONGRATULATIONS to channel 11 for a fantastic job on this being the first Pittsburgh local news broadcast in HD. Way to go Dave! The broadcast picture was even sharper than I thought it would be.I was impressed to see that even the field reports were shot in HD! The weather graphics and maps look breath taking.It will be like going back to the stone age to watch "other" channels now.I noticed on the Live wide shot of the studio and the end, it appeared the the floor camera had a real camera person or was that my imagination as it trucked back. This is truly a large step forward in the Pittsburgh market. They are REALLY the ones to watch now! Thanks again Dave and channel 11, it was worth the wait!

[QUOTE=dxernut;11302513]Since on the Labor day weekend after the telethon,WPXI supposed to have the first local news broadcast in HD, does this also mean that the channel 11 news on Fox 53 will also be in HD? :confused:[/QU CONGRATULATIONS to channel 11 for a fantastic job on this being the first Pittsburgh local news broadcast in HD. Way to go Dave! The broadcast picture was even sharper than I thought it would be.I was impressed to see that even the field reports were shot in HD! The weather graphics and maps look breath taking.It will be like going back to the stone age to watch "other" channels now.I noticed on the Live wide shot of the studio and the end, it appeared the the floor camera had a real camera person or was that my imagination as it trucked back. This is truly a large step forward in the Pittsburgh market. They are REALLY the ones to watch now! Thanks again Dave and channel 11, it was worth the wait!

Thanks for the kind words on our HD News premiere. There were tons of people working lots of hours so we could get to air last evening, and the hourly guys like me are making lots of O.T.! Yes we had manned cameras; we're working some bugs out of the robotic cameras. Glad you liked the weather graphics...that is one of the systems that I spent lots of time on. Actually, there is some pretty cutting edge stuff we were able to do to make the weather and traffic systems work the way we wanted them to, and I am very pleased with the results.

There are going to be some bugs here and there, so I hope you all can bear with us as we continue to go through our growing pains!

Dave
WPXI Engineering

Dave,

I was out last evening so I missed the first broadcast , but was really impressed with the HD news this morning. Congratulations on a first-class job!!

Wow and congratulations! I know everyone there must be working extra hard to polish everything off.

Tell your bosses that they've just gained another daily viewer. Being in HD is enough for me to watch 11 instead of the other stations. HD fiends like myself will be talking about it at work on monday too.

The graphics are great! Seeing HD traffic and weather maps was a completely new experience. Wow!

Some shots from the studio seem a bit dark but otherwise it has been flawless.

Oops. I forgot about the Channel 11 HD cutover yesterday for local news. My TiVo always grabs the 6 and 11 p.m. news for me on KDKA. I think it's time to switch that to WPXI HD. Can't wait to see Fedko's blemishes.

Thank you for the new HD. I am on board now for all news on WPXI from now on. Great job.

Can someone tell me what the heck is up with KDKA? It seems like every week it's just going to be an adventure with NFL Today and their NFL games. Will there be 5.1 audio? Will it be in sync? Will NFL Today be in HD? Will it start in SD and switch to HD like twenty minutes in? How much of the games will be in SD? Will we have announcer audio? Will we have any audio at all?

I mean, it seems like every single week there's some sort of glaring, embarassing screw up. Is this CBS's or KDKA's fault? Three weeks ago we had to watch literally like half of the Steelers-Bills game in SD. Today, the first 20 minutes of NFL Today was SD. And it's just business as usual to have missing channels of audio, stuttering and dropouts, and to periodically lose HD. No other network's coverage seems to ever suffer from this, but with KDKA/CBS it's literally a weekly thing.

I mean, I don't mean to be insulting to any of KDKA's engineers, I'm sure they work very hard and everything, but it seems like every time KDKA does live HD, it's like it's 2001 and they're doing it for the first time all over again. Why?? Is there something weird about CBS that makes these problems a lot more pervasive?

pittsburgh fox affiliate wpgh (via cable) just dropped to SD at the start of the 2nd quarter.

wtf. i thought only kdka screwed up like this

Can someone tell me what the heck is up with KDKA? It seems like every week it's just going to be an adventure with NFL Today and their NFL games. Will there be 5.1 audio? Will it be in sync? Will NFL Today be in HD? Will it start in SD and switch to HD like twenty minutes in? How much of the games will be in SD? Will we have announcer audio? Will we have any audio at all?

I mean, it seems like every single week there's some sort of glaring, embarassing screw up. Is this CBS's or KDKA's fault? Three weeks ago we had to watch literally like half of the Steelers-Bills game in SD. Today, the first 20 minutes of NFL Today was SD. And it's just business as usual to have missing channels of audio, stuttering and dropouts, and to periodically lose HD. No other network's coverage seems to ever suffer from this, but with KDKA/CBS it's literally a weekly thing.

I mean, I don't mean to be insulting to any of KDKA's engineers, I'm sure they work very hard and everything, but it seems like every time KDKA does live HD, it's like it's 2001 and they're doing it for the first time all over again. Why?? Is there something weird about CBS that makes these problems a lot more pervasive?


ditto. best picture quality.... WHEN ITS ON... which is a crapshoot

Yeah, this is a first for Fox...what happened to the HD???

haha, guess i spoke too soon. way to go, wpgh. thanks for the hd. enjoyed it while it lasted.

zomg, looks like it's back up. let's pray it lasts past the commercials and halftime. do they have to switch back and forth between hd/sd to include local commercials or something? i could swear that's when it dropped out this time around.

Terrible....I absolutely dread when the Steelers play a game on FOX. When they play on CBS via KDKA partial HD is better than no HD. Now I understand why my dad gets HD NFL Ticket....

The picture seems to get a "jolt" once in a while, I keep thinking it's going to switch back to SD when it does that. Weird. At least it's back to HD.

The picture seems to get a "jolt" once in a while, I keep thinking it's going to switch back to SD when it does that. Weird. At least it's back to HD.

You are getting it in HD?

You are getting it in HD?I actually crawled into my attic during halftime (yes, it was quite hot) and aimed my antenna towards Johnston to pick up channel 8 (WWCP FOX) better. I think they had the Steelers game in HD the whole time.

I could only get a 35% signal strength, but the picture was rock-solid. I love digital broadcasting. :)

Well happy for you that u got it in hd. I will have to erect an antenna on my garage with a couple boosters so I can pick those channels up. I cant take a chance on not watching the game in hd again. My father lives a mile or so away and picks up some stations in Altoona and Johnstown, not sure what stations off top of my head but they look great.

[QUOTE=dxernut;11833985]

Thanks for the kind words on our HD News premiere. There were tons of people working lots of hours so we could get to air last evening, and the hourly guys like me are making lots of O.T.! Yes we had manned cameras; we're working some bugs out of the robotic cameras. Glad you liked the weather graphics...that is one of the systems that I spent lots of time on. Actually, there is some pretty cutting edge stuff we were able to do to make the weather and traffic systems work the way we wanted them to, and I am very pleased with the results.

There are going to be some bugs here and there, so I hope you all can bear with us as we continue to go through our growing pains!

Dave
WPXI Engineering


checking it out for the 1st time right now. it looks pretty nice except I despise the big blue background behind the anchors... but oh well. better than no HD news. PGH finally gets into the 21st century

it looks pretty nice except I despise the big blue background behind the anchors...

FYI: The big blue background behind each of the anchors is coming from one of two 103" Panasonic plasma monitors. These are the same monitors that NBC uses on The Today Show and NFL Night in America. I understand that they weigh about 550 pounds each...and they sure generate some heat!

Dave
WPXI Engineering

FYI: The big blue background behind each of the anchors is coming from one of two 103" Panasonic plasma monitors. These are the same monitors that NBC uses on The Today Show and NFL Night in America. I understand that they weigh about 550 pounds each...and they sure generate some heat!

Dave
WPXI Engineering

:eek:

i have to commend you not just for switching over to high def but for switching seriously ALL THE WAY to high def. i don't recall seeing any standard def graphics or any shots - even on location - that weren't at least framed for widescreen. i'm assuming a lot of the on-location stuff is upconverted, but it's not stretched, it's framed properly and not a pillarbox to be seen anywhere.

FYI: The big blue background behind each of the anchors is coming from one of two 103" Panasonic plasma monitors.

Is it possible to borrow one for the Super Bowl? :D

Seriously, great work and congratulations for being the first out of the gate in DMA 22. I missed the first newscast as I was in Raleigh to see the Pens lose, but caught today's noon news and was very impressed. Also, I enjoyed the 50th anniversay retrospective that was on two weeks ago.

Can someone tell me what the heck is up with KDKA?

Apparently a lot. The other CBS O&O I receive doesn't have the problems that they seem to always have, especially in the case of the shuttering switching between local and network content.

are they concerned about burning blue pixels into those 103" plasmas?
are they 1080p or higher resolution than that?

FYI: The big blue background behind each of the anchors is coming from one of two 103" Panasonic plasma monitors. These are the same monitors that NBC uses on The Today Show and NFL Night in America. I understand that they weigh about 550 pounds each...and they sure generate some heat!

Dave
WPXI Engineering

Hi Dave:
When I was in between gigs, I had an interview at Panasonic in Secaucus - I saw the 103 inch plasma beast in the lobby. It is huge, and expensive. 70K! Did you have to break that display in, and any problems with image retention? Attached a spec sheet.. Not like I can afford one soon. lol HD news is looking good, audio a little low when live. Thanks Dave. I'll send some donuts...

M

are they concerned about burning blue pixels into those 103" plasmas?
are they 1080p or higher resolution than that?

I don't think we're too worried about burning blue pixels. When we aren't using them, we turn them off. Also, the background has continuous motion, so it's a lot like a screensaver. I don't know the resolution of this monitor...sorry. It's at least 1080i...don't know if it's higher or even if it's 1080p.

Dave

Hi Dave:
When I was in between gigs, I had an interview at Panasonic in Secaucus - I saw the 103 inch plasma beast in the lobby. It is huge, and expensive. 70K! Did you have to break that display in, and any problems with image retention? Attached a spec sheet.. Not like I can afford one soon. lol HD news is looking good, audio a little low when live. Thanks Dave. I'll send some donuts...

M

Did I hear donuts? You'll be our favorite viewer if you feed us!!!! :D
Thanks for the spec sheet; I haven't had a chance to grab one yet. I don't know about break in, and I have found a couple of quirks with them. Also, thanks for the comments on the audio...like I said in an earlier post, we're still working through some bugs.

Dave
WPXI Engineering

I'm new to OTA and Antennas and I'm looking for some info...

I live about 30 miles south of the city in Scottdale, 15683.

My wife and I don't watch much TV other then the local channnels so we are looking to drop our cable, but we still want to watch our favorite shows in HD.

I'm looking for some opinions on antennas and preamps.

I bought a cheap indoor/outdoor RCA boomerang antenna from Walmart about a year ago and we picked up about 5 HD channels and maybe 5-7 digital channels. Problem was we couldn't get them all at the same time. (we'd get half with the antenna in the living room and half with it in the dining room.

I want to buy something that will pick up more stations and can be installed in my attic. We have a full attic so size isn't a huge factor.

I was checking out Terk and Winegard antennas, but I have no idea what to look for...

Our budget for Antenna and Preamp is $100-$200

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Here is our info from 2150:
http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=40%2E100097&longitude=%2D79%2E588986&magnetic_north=9&range=150&sort=channel&show_expired=True&show_construction=True&show_analog=True&show_low_power=False&action=Show+Stations (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=40%2E100097&longitude=%2D79%2E588986&magnetic_north=9&range=150&sort=channel&show_expired=True&show_construction=True&show_analog=True&show_low_power=False&action=Show+Stations)

Does Direct Tv have the Pittsburgh locals in HD or is an antenna required? Thanks.

Does Direct Tv have the Pittsburgh locals in HD or is an antenna required? Thanks.

they are in hd if you have the new dish

they are in hd if you have the new dish

I am looking to upgrade to HD in the next few weeks so I will need to upgrade my receiver and dish so I assume I will be ok. Thnaks for the info.

they are in hd if you have the new dish

No local PBS HD (13.1) on either Dish or DirecTV...still need an antenna for your local PBS hd station...

I turned on my set this morning and discovered 11-3/RTN now appears in my set's channel lineup. So far just a slate with the 11 logo, call letters, and "Pittsburgh" is airing until Monday.

I'm looking forward to being able to see those old shows without having to turn the dish to pick up the Equity Broadcasting stations.

I'm new to OTA and Antennas and I'm looking for some info...

I live about 30 miles south of the city in Scottdale, 15683.

My wife and I don't watch much TV other then the local channnels so we are looking to drop our cable, but we still want to watch our favorite shows in HD.

I'm looking for some opinions on antennas and preamps.

I bought a cheap indoor/outdoor RCA boomerang antenna from Walmart about a year ago and we picked up about 5 HD channels and maybe 5-7 digital channels. Problem was we couldn't get them all at the same time. (we'd get half with the antenna in the living room and half with it in the dining room.

I want to buy something that will pick up more stations and can be installed in my attic. We have a full attic so size isn't a huge factor.

I was checking out Terk and Winegard antennas, but I have no idea what to look for...

Our budget for Antenna and Preamp is $100-$200

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Here is our info from 2150:
http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=40%2E100097&longitude=%2D79%2E588986&magnetic_north=9&range=150&sort=channel&show_expired=True&show_construction=True&show_analog=True&show_low_power=False&action=Show+Stations (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp?latitude=40%2E100097&longitude=%2D79%2E588986&magnetic_north=9&range=150&sort=channel&show_expired=True&show_construction=True&show_analog=True&show_low_power=False&action=Show+Stations)


I don't care much for the 2150 site -- it does not provide a reasonable expectation for what one can receive at their given location. I prefer www.antennaweb.org for searching channels that one might get. That said, I have been very pleased with my Radio Shack DA-5200 (~$50) amplified antenna. I was at Lowe's over the weekend, and a Phillips antenna rotor was about $ 88. The combination of these two, plus good coax and rotor cable, should stay within your budget, and give you plenty of stations to watch.

I don't care much for the 2150 site -- it does not provide a reasonable expectation for what one can receive at their given location. I prefer www.antennaweb.org for searching channels that one might get.In my experience, antennaweb (http://www.antennaweb.org) severely underestimates what can be received, especially digital transmissions. But you are pretty much guaranteed to get good reception for the stations it does list.

2150 (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp) is very nice for showing you everything within a certain distance of your location. The direction information is nice, and the transmitter power & pattern information is invaluable for understanding why certain stations can be impossible to receive. But as pghturbo88 alluded to, this site doesn't make any guesses as to whether or not you will actually be able to receive the transmission - it just shows you everything available.

The best up-and-coming site appears to be TV Fool (http://www.tvfool.com/). It was started recently by a member of avsforum, andy.s.lee. It provides more detailed information about the attenuation of each signal, ideal antenna height, etc. The information in the generated table is quite interesting. I suggest that everybody take a look at it. In my case, I am able to receive every station in the table with Rx > -100 dBm. So the information seems to be very accurate. There's also a plot showing the direction and strength of all the signals, but he needs to add some way to separate the signals, and/or zoom in - for me it just looks like a green blob in the middle of the graph, with a bunch of station numbers written over top of each other. He also has a bunch of Google Earth overlays showing TV transmitter locations and TV coverage. Very interesting stuff.

In my experience, antennaweb (http://www.antennaweb.org) severely underestimates what can be received, especially digital transmissions. But you are pretty much guaranteed to get good reception for the stations it does list.

2150 (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/default.asp) is very nice for showing you everything within a certain distance of your location. The direction information is nice, and the transmitter power & pattern information is invaluable for understanding why certain stations can be impossible to receive. But as pghturbo88 alluded to, this site doesn't make any guesses as to whether or not you will actually be able to receive the transmission - it just shows you everything available.

The best up-and-coming site appears to be TV Fool (http://www.tvfool.com/). It was started recently by a member of avsforum, andy.s.lee. It provides more detailed information about the attenuation of each signal, ideal antenna height, etc. The information in the generated table is quite interesting. I suggest that everybody take a look at it. In my case, I am able to receive every station in the table with Rx > -100 dBm. So the information seems to be very accurate. There's also a plot showing the direction and strength of all the signals, but he needs to add some way to separate the signals, and/or zoom in - for me it just looks like a green blob in the middle of the graph, with a bunch of station numbers written over top of each other. He also has a bunch of Google Earth overlays showing TV transmitter locations and TV coverage. Very interesting stuff.


I have to echo garsh's opinion. If you enter a precise location (address or lat/long plus antenna height) the resulting analysis is very close to reality (perhaps just a wee bit conservative). And as garth points out, andy.s.lee's transmitter overlay files for Google Earth can often provide you with the "why" one signal is strong enough and another is not. This is especially true in our region of ridges and valleys.

Garsh,
Thank you very much for the tip on TV Fool. An excellent resource to say the least! (I had to use coordinates, as it did not process my address.) What strikes me is that how WTRF puts out respectable power, yet I apparently don't have much of a prayer receiving it here (yet I get their VHF analog signal quite nicely.) TV Fool is definitely much better than antennaweb! As for 2150, I hope I wasn't being too negative, it's just that you can put a distance of 200 miles in, and it will start showing you Canadian stations on your list. I like seeing more quantitative items on which stations I can get, not just the ones that are a certain distance from me. I agree also that I can get everything -100 dBm or greater on the list (though there are some within striking distance that I wish I could get, like WTAJ.) Thanks again for posting that tip for all to see.

What strikes me is that how WTRF puts out respectable power, yet I apparently don't have much of a prayer receiving it here (yet I get their VHF analog signal quite nicely.)

VHF and UHF are totally different animals. The fringe for VHF propogation by direct reception is 100 miles while for UHF it is 60 miles.

And, in our region, 60 miles is charitable, because the hills, valleys and trees mangle high UHF signals after about 45 miles.

As for 2150, I hope I wasn't being too negative, it's just that you can put a distance of 200 miles in, and it will start showing you Canadian stations on your list.2150 has a lot of information, but you need to understand how the tool works to take advantage of it. It's not nearly as user-friendly as antennaweb, but it provides a lot of additional, useful information. I think you should give it another chance.

The first rule is, keep your distance under 70 miles. ;) I can pick up one station from 66 miles out. You need a good antenna and some hilltop realestate to get much better than that.

I also checked "Include Expired Records" and "Include Construction Permits". It seems that some of the data is out of date, so including expired records was necessary to see any of the Pittsburgh Digital transmissions.

The four most important columns in the output are:
Direction: this is in degrees from North. 90° is due East. This is the direction in which you need to point your antenna (assuming your antenna has the most gain straight ahead - some have an offset maximum).
Distance: distance to the transmitter, as the crow flies.
ERP / HAAT: Effective Radiative Power, and Height Above Average Terrain. This is the power of the transmitter, and the height of the transmission tower antenna.
Transmitter Antenna: This shows the radiative pattern of the transmission, as well as your direction from the transmitter (a red line). If the pattern does not touch the edge of the circle in the direction of the red line, then you probably won't receive the transmission.


Here are some examples of using the information. Unfortunately, the transmission pattern pictures need to be linked, so you'll have to click on them to see them.

1) My best station is KDKA (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KDKA-TV).
Transmitter: link (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/antenna_plot.asp?id=8496D26C8BA4BA18&r=5897C2353193C701&b=8F40AC52592506EF&a=43233F91999DBD2D&d=F5BDA581FD89608C8C5DCA69FB9A679EDDDDFF5CBA49E423)
Distance: 17 miles.
ERP / HAAT: 1000 kW / 1020 ft
It's close, powerful, and the transmission pattern encompasses my area. If only every station was like this!

2) Here's a station I barely get, WWCP (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WWCP) in Johnstown.
Transmitter: link (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/antenna_plot.asp?id=55BA08A7B38F049A&r=5897C2353193C701&b=8F40AC52592506EF&a=43233F91999DBD2D&d=CF3BB3A1A5DFCD760EF60D2455E347485991B95C80653BAD)
Distance: 64 miles.
ERP / HAAT: 1000 kW / 1155 ft
Note that the transmitter pattern doesn't quite make it to the outside of the circle where the line intersects the circle. That means I'm not going to get a very good signal, and I'm lucky to pull it in.

3) Now here's a station I do not get, WYTV (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WYTV) in Youngstown:
Transmitter: link (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/antenna_plot.asp?id=8496D26C8BA4BA18&r=5897C2353193C701&b=8F40AC52592506EF&a=43233F91999DBD2D&d=628B437B2AA46638F7130DA13A3608B74EE27200950901FB)
Distance: 35 miles.
ERP / HAAT: 50 kW / 486 ft
Good pattern, and good distance. But it just doesn't have enough power to make it out to my location.

4) And here's another station I do not get, WPMY (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WPMY) (used to be WCWB, and WPTT before that):
Transmitter: link (http://www.2150.com/broadcast/antenna_plot.asp?id=CC5FFD7DAD1B6580&r=5897C2353193C701&b=8F40AC52592506EF&a=43233F91999DBD2D&d=0C6F308FC23B17122371AC04406235AD32024A63E43A7308)
Distance: 17 miles.
ERP / HAAT: 1000 kW / 1033 ft
See that transmission pattern? I'm screwed. The distance & power is great, but that transmission pattern means I don't stand a chance.

I turned on my set this morning and discovered 11-3/RTN now appears in my set's channel lineup. So far just a slate with the 11 logo, call letters, and "Pittsburgh" is airing until Monday.

I'm looking forward to being able to see those old shows without having to turn the dish to pick up the Equity Broadcasting stations.

As busy as WPXI is, they still put forth the effort to bring us the RTN Network. Hats off to WPXI for the great work! Now KDKA get your act in gear and offer us "something" other than the same old stuff everyday.

2150 has a lot of information, but you need to understand how the tool works to take advantage of it. It's not nearly as user-friendly as antennaweb, but it provides a lot of additional, useful information. I think you should give it another chance.



Garsh,
Thanks again for the detailed explanations!! I guess the lesson to learn here is that "you get what you can get," regardless of what the technical sites we've been discussing tell us. Cases in point: The coverage maps relative to my location on 2150 say that I should have no prayer of receiving WTOV or WPMY, yet I pick them up easily. It also says that I should be able to receive WTRF, but I never have. I am also on the "fringe" for WJAC, yet I can get that no matter where my antenna rotor position is at. I too show that WYTV in Youngstown should come in, but it is about a 50/50 chance for me (sometimes I get it, sometimes I don't.) Sure, I could probably do better getting my antenna out of the attic, but I just don't see the additonal channels being worth the effort (wish list: WTAJ, WTRF, and WPSX). Anyway, I am extremely pleased with my OTA reception, and do not regret for one minute dumping my local Pittsburgh channels from DISH.

Now, the next question: What local channels (if any) in Pittsburgh, Y'town, or Johnstown, will go to VHF in 2009? My digital OTA antenna is UHF only!

Also, is there a stand-alone tuner or DVD recorder with tuner that has a super-sensitive tuner (kind of similar to my old Pioneer Supertuner-III car stereo that picked up really weak FM) that would outperform my Sanyo TV tuner that I am using? Comments, please!!

Anyway, I am extremely pleased with my OTA reception, and do not regret for one minute dumping my local Pittsburgh channels from DISH.

I did the same when I got my HDTV. I'll support Echostar for trying to help revitalize my mother's hometown, but not for $6/month more needlessly.

Now, the next question: What local channels (if any) in Pittsburgh, Y'town, or Johnstown, will go to VHF in 2009? My digital OTA antenna is UHF only!

WQED and WWCP will be returning to 13 and 8 respectively.

WQED and WWCP will be returning to 13 and 8 respectively.

And WPCW (The CW, 19) is tentatively going to 11.

WTRF and WTOV from Wheeling/Steubenville will be returning to 7 and 9 respectively as well.

Has anyone besides me seen constant video and audio breakups on WPXI-DT (11-1) all weekend? I'm seeing these breakups on both my DirecTV satellite feed as well as the OTA signal I pick up through an antenna mounted on my roof. It has been quite annoying.

Has anyone besides me seen constant video and audio breakups on WPXI-DT (11-1) all weekend? I'm seeing these breakups on both my DirecTV satellite feed as well as the OTA signal I pick up through an antenna mounted on my roof. It has been quite annoying.

I've seen the same problems you're talking about, although I've only seen them during the local news and assumed they're having issues with the new studio.

Yes, frequent momentary audio dropouts and occasional video glitches on the Sunday Night Football game, via Comcast.

I feel a little better knowing that the audio and video problems I'm seeing on WPXI-DT are not just my problem. Dave from WPXI can you shed any light on what the problem might be?

I feel a little better knowing that the audio and video problems I'm seeing on WPXI-DT are not just my problem. Dave from WPXI can you shed any light on what the problem might be?

I've noticed since last week that Weather Plus has been on the national feed, and now there is no program information in the stream for any part of the boquet. I chalk it up to growing pains with the move.

I've noticed since last week that Weather Plus has been on the national feed, and now there is no program information in the stream for any part of the boquet. I chalk it up to growing pains with the move.

Has anyone besides me seen constant video and audio breakups on WPXI-DT (11-1) all weekend? I'm seeing these breakups on both my DirecTV satellite feed as well as the OTA signal I pick up through an antenna mounted on my roof. It has been quite annoying.

Yes, you can chalk up Weather Plus to growing pains. Hopefully we'll have it back up and running normally this week. Regarding the breakup, again, growing pains. We're working to get this back to normal.

Thank you both for the posts. They're always helpful.

Dave

Does low center channel volume go hand in hand with the audio dropout issues as well? I've noticed, for the past two weeks, that I've had to crank the center channel levels up on my receiver to have a prayer of understanding what people are saying over ambient music/effects in the other channels. This was apparent on Chuck, Heroes, Journeyman, and Bionic Woman for the past two weeks. I almost put the closed captioning on last night when watching Heroes to make sure I didn't miss any important dialog.

I have not noticed this on any other channel and I tried both Comcast and OTA with the same results. I talked to a co-worker on Armstrong cable this morning and he was also having the same issues.

Does low center channel volume go hand in hand with the audio dropout issues as well? I've noticed, for the past two weeks, that I've had to crank the center channel levels up on my receiver to have a prayer of understanding what people are saying over ambient music/effects in the other channels. This was apparent on Chuck, Heroes, Journeyman, and Bionic Woman for the past two weeks.

I noticed the same problem with the low center channel volume while watching Journeyman on the NBC station I receive via satellite. It must be a problem with the network feed.

I thought WPXI DT 11.3, which will be airing Retro Television Network was to go live on 10-15-07. They are not showing up yet on my OTA scans on my Directv receivers. Is there a delay on this?

They added Retro to my Comcast cable, so the
channel is definitely live.

Thanks for the quick reply scottro. Anyone else not able to pick up 11.3 ota via Directv receiver?

I thought WPXI DT 11.3, which will be airing Retro Television Network was to go live on 10-15-07. They are not showing up yet on my OTA scans on my Directv receivers. Is there a delay on this?

It's there as all of my equipment displays 11-3. You might have to power-cycle the receiver and see if it will accept all three channels on 48.

I thought WPXI DT 11.3, which will be airing Retro Television Network was to go live on 10-15-07. They are not showing up yet on my OTA scans on my Directv receivers. Is there a delay on this?I was picking them up on the 13th (a couple of days early).

Thanks for all the help. My old Sony SAT-HD200 was able to scan it in, but after several tries on my newer HR20 DVR, still no luck.

Anywhere I can find a program guide for 11.3? The Sony guide is only showing "regular schedule" as the only programming. Hopefully they will be showing old Chiller Theaters. I guess I just revealed that I remember that back in the day.

Thanks for all the help. My old Sony SAT-HD200 was able to scan it in, but after several tries on my newer HR20 DVR, still no luck.

Anywhere I can find a program guide for 11.3? The Sony guide is only showing "regular schedule" as the only programming. Hopefully they will be showing old Chiller Theaters. I guess I just revealed that I remember that back in the day.

Sorry, but there aren't any local shows on RTN. That being said, I really like the shows on RTN's schedule.

Dave

Here's the link that WPXI may air local programming on 11.3.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07232/810739-237.stm

Here's the link that WPXI may air local programming on 11.3.
http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07232/810739-237.stm

Heck...I guess I was wrong about local programming. :cool:

Dave

I've joined the crowd that now watches local news on WPXI-HD. It looks fantastic. Great looking set. Just one problem. I record it on my TiVo using a season pass, keeping only the latest episode for viewing. TiVo records season passes based on the name of the program as submitted to Tribune Media Services (guide info). Sometimes the 11 p.m. news is called "Channel 11 News" and othertimes it is called "Channel 11 News Nightbeat", without apparent rhyme or reason. This means that I miss some airings, or I have to set up 2 passes and check to see what it is called each night. What's the reasoning here?

WPGH comes into the 2nd half of Sunday late game Dallas-Minnesota in SD .

grrrrrrrrrrrrrr

can someone in the know please post the engineering #'s for all our PGH affiliates in one convenient post for future reference in fixing 'sd/hd switch problems' ?

HAHAHAHA FOX WPGH dumps the ALCS to SD in the 5th inning at 10:00 oclock.


pitiful. they need their license revoked.

HAHAHAHA FOX WPGH dumps the ALCS to SD in the 5th inning at 10:00 oclock.

They are back to 16:9 as of this post.

It must have been one of those days at master control on Ivory Avenue with all of the problems they've been having handling the Fox feeds.

still inexcusable.

Steeler game is unwatchable to me.
I am getting WPXI via OTA and COmcast, and the macroblocking and pixelation is horrendous.

still inexcusable.

Just as people have bad days, so do businesses where nothing seems to go right. I would say I'm sure they're not doing this on purpose, but it is Sinclair. I gave up on them this afternoon and switched over to WWCP.

What is inexcusable is their forced IDing due to their inability to encode the local content as "English" nor having actual EPG data for either WPMY or WPGH.

Just as people have bad days, so do businesses where nothing seems to go right. I would say I'm sure they're not doing this on purpose, but it is Sinclair. I gave up on them this afternoon and switched over to WWCP.





make no mistake, while I would love ZERO mistakes, I expect some. my significant contention is that WHEN there is a mistake, it is impossible to directly contact them so it can be corrected in a timely manner.

my significant contention is that WHEN there is a mistake, it is impossible to directly contact them so it can be corrected in a timely manner.What, you think that maybe they're just on a coffee break, and it's up to you to let them know that they have a problem?

well, when NOBODY can contact them to correct the problem, you get events like yesterday. football games with entire second halfs shown in SD instead of HD. if that's the kind of broadcast you bought your HDTV to enjoy, more power to you.
:rolleyes: