I have the Terk indoor antenna and receive all the Rockford digital stations including 39.1. in Roscoe, 12 miles away. I even get a couple of Madison digitals.

Which model Terk do you have? I would like to give it a try.

Cool enjoy! Let me know which looks better the OTA or cable for the local HD's

Thats the way it should be but I was just curious. Thanks.

Last night – 02/11/06 – my reception of NBC Rocford 13.1
was VERY bad. Does anyone know if they are having transmitter
issues causing breakups and picture blackouts?

I think that was a national issue due to the snow storm in the northeast (which is supposed to continue through most of today.

I did read this post regarding the nascar race that's on NBC right now, and it looks like that is switching back and forth from HD to SD, possibly the same issue. My fingers are crossed that it gets better today.


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=643804

Yeah, NBC has a KU-band HD-feed from New York, but they do have a C-band SD feed they can fall back on from Burbank. There's no such backup for the HD feed. KU-band transmission via satellite is more susceptible to outages from precipitation. In this case, the 22.8" of snow they've gotten so far in New York City, and counting!

But...what do I see on WREX-DT...oh no...not a transparent bug in the upper right hand corner! Say it isn't so...I hope that's just for the Olympics. :(

I am also in the rockford area can anyone help with which receivers are working the best in this area... I have not used the HD on my TV as of yet and would like to start!

Last night – 02/11/06 – my reception of NBC Rocford 13.1
was VERY bad. Does anyone know if they are having transmitter
issues causing breakups and picture blackouts?
I had the same picture breakups on both WREX-DT 13.1 and WMTV-DT 15.1 last night while watching the Olympics.

I am also in the rockford area can anyone help with which receivers are working the best in this area... I have not used the HD on my TV as of yet and would like to start! How much do you want to spend? Have you checked www.antennaweb.org for the distance and directions of the transmitting towers? If not, do that first.

I have the HD DVR from DirecTV. I was wondering in I got an antenna would I be able to receive the Rockford/Madison local channels in HD? Would I also be able to DVR those local channels? How much would it cost me roughly for the antenna and installation? Would I only be able to receive the antenna feed on the HD DVR box, or could I also get that on a second HD box that I have in the bedroom? How clear do the HD locals come in using the antenna?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Where in town do you live? I get all the Madison stations at my house. Which is by Rock Valley College. I use a pretty big antenna with a preamp/amp. I point my antenna NW and i can get everything but 39.1. I'd rather get 47.1 out of Madison because they do broadcast in HD. Do you have any antenna now? If you decide to do it let me know if you need help getting your HDTivo settup for both cities. I would imagine a setup like mine installed would be about $350 with parts and labor, maybe a little less. Of course if you can find a sweet spot like I did you could forgo the rotor which I included in my guestament. But it's nice if I do want to move to get 39.1. I may get 39.1 at my sweet spot if they ever start broadcasting at full strength/ HD. Email me if I can help you out/thru it.

I don't have any antennas now. I have called around town, but not sure who is the best to go with for the installation. Will I be able to use my Directv HD DRV to record the local channels?

I don't have any antennas now. I have called around town, but not sure who is the best to go with for the installation. Will I be able to use my Directv HD DRV to record the local channels?
Absolutely. You may be able to pick up Rockfords with a rabbit ears or a powered indoor antenna. If you want Madison or probably 39.1 til they boost their signal you will need to go to an outside model.

I was talking to a D* installer today, and asked him when he thought that D* would be offering Rockford locals in HD? To my surprise, he told me "in about a month." He said he has been installing the 5 LBN dishes for customers wanting to be ready for the local HD channels. He also told me that my HD DVR would not work with the new 5 LBN dishes. I called D* to get their take on these developments, and they told me they had no idea when Rockford would be getting HD locals. And that I would be getting a letter in the mail sometime in May regarding switching my current HD DVR box with one that would be compatable with the 5 LBN dish, at no cost to me. Does any of this make sense to anyone else? Do anyone else have any information about D* and Rockford Locals?

I would imagine(as a D* dealer) that it will be a couple years before Rockford gets its locals in HD from D*. I mean we only got SD locals in the last couple of months and how long have they been doing SD locals elseware? I also would be shocked if their replacement mpeg 4 DVR was out before the 3rd quarter. Their is no reason your HR10-250 wouldnt work with a 5 LNB dish. It just can't receive mpeg 4 information.

I have the HD DVR from DirecTV. I was wondering in I got an antenna would I be able to receive the Rockford/Madison local channels in HD? Would I also be able to DVR those local channels? How much would it cost me roughly for the antenna and installation? Would I only be able to receive the antenna feed on the HD DVR box, or could I also get that on a second HD box that I have in the bedroom? How clear do the HD locals come in using the antenna?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I live in Rockton and get all of the Madison and Rockford channels with a set of rabbit ears.

I'm 45 miles southwest in Crystal Lake and I can receive WTVO, WREX and WIFR digital with an amped indoor antenna (but no Madison - although I'm pretty sure I could with an outdoor antenna). Shouldn't be too hard for you, I would think.

what kind of indoor antenna do you have?

Low power TBN repeater W52BI has requested to change from channel 52 to
channel 19 and flash-cut to digital, possibly causing interference to
WGN-TV in DeKalb county on the same frequency during "DX".

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=LD1123456.html

Also, W25CL, the low power TBN affiliate, requests channel 38 and a flash-cut
to digital:

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=LD1123041.html

That should interfere with channel 38 in Chicago, which by that time would be
a spanish speaking station.

what kind of indoor antenna do you have? Right now I'm using a Radio Shack 15-1880 with the 24db amp maxed out. I get equal results with a Silver Sensor and an added on 24db amp. Tonight I was getting CBS-DT Milwaukee rock solid and was actually receiving WQRF-DT for the first time EVER (since they've been on)! Did they just up the power there or something?

I live in Rockford, IL. Is anyone getting the Cubs in HD? I do get ESPNHD with Insight but it is rare that they are on. I heard that both Comcast SportsNet and WGN TV have HD sports programming. Can anyone in the Rockford area get either of those this far out OTA?

Does anyone know if Insight plans to pick up either WGNHD or ComcastSportsHD in the near future?

How about more HD programming for Insight period? Right now we get only 8 stations in HD.

Thanks!

E

I live in Rockford, IL. Is anyone getting the Cubs in HD? I do get ESPNHD with Insight but it is rare that they are on. I heard that both Comcast SportsNet and WGN TV have HD sports programming. Can anyone in the Rockford area get either of those this far out OTA?

Does anyone know if Insight plans to pick up either WGNHD or ComcastSportsHD in the near future?

How about more HD programming for Insight period? Right now we get only 8 stations in HD.

Thanks!

E You do know that starting today, WCIU-DT just went 720p, also, right? The Sox' home game is on there in HD tonight, but the Flubs home games will also be. And they are supposed to be going high-power, too. So if you can manage to set yourself up to receive WGN-HD, you might (I said might - but it won't be easy) be able to get WCIU-DT too. But being, what - 85-90 miles away, you'd probably need an optimal reception situation.

2 posts from falling off!
bump

2 posts from falling off!
bump

I was going to do it anyway, but for a different reason: as announced on air WREX-DT will be going full power next week after a new antenna is installed,
weather permitting.

what kind of indoor antenna do you have?
A cheap little set of RCA rabbit ears from Target ($15).

Cool! So I presume it's anticipated to have the same coverage as their analog?

I was going to do it anyway, but for a different reason: as announced on air WREX-DT will be going full power next week after a new antenna is installed,
weather permitting.

Cool! So I presume it's anticipated to have the same coverage as their analog?
Yessir!

I was going to do it anyway, but for a different reason: as announced on air WREX-DT will be going full power next week after a new antenna is installed,
weather permitting.
Does this move tie-in with their schedule to start broadcasting HD content? I can't remember where that was, I thought it was sometime around this part of the year, at least projected anyway.

They have been broadcasting HD for quite some time. Do you mean WQRF Fox 39.1?

They have been broadcasting HD for quite some time. Do you mean WQRF Fox 39.1?Yeah, that's what I meant, I had a brain freeze there for a minute. :)

Does anyone have an idea as to when Insight will broadcast Fox in HD??? Also, WGN-HD. I would like to be able to see all the local teams Bears, Cubs, Sox in HD. I hear the local personalities on sports talk radio talking about the games in HD, but alas, I don't receive them. Any help out there on Isights timeline?

Yeah, that's what I meant, I had a brain freeze there for a minute. :)

July-August time frame was last I heard for HD.

You do know that starting today, WCIU-DT just went 720p, also, right? The Sox' home game is on there in HD tonight, but the Flubs home games will also be. And they are supposed to be going high-power, too. So if you can manage to set yourself up to receive WGN-HD, you might (I said might - but it won't be easy) be able to get WCIU-DT too. But being, what - 85-90 miles away, you'd probably need an optimal reception situation.
Unfortunately WKOW-TV in Madison drowns out our WCIU-DT signal once you reach Rockford. If you get lucky, PM me.

Does anyone have an idea as to when Insight will broadcast Fox in HD??? Also, WGN-HD. I would like to be able to see all the local teams Bears, Cubs, Sox in HD. I hear the local personalities on sports talk radio talking about the games in HD, but alas, I don't receive them. Any help out there on Isights timeline?
WQRF has to convert to HD first. I should happen within the next year. Once that happens I'm sure Insight will pick them up.

All,

I just saw an application whereby they have decided to downgrade and go to 164 kw for their full power, directional mostly to the northeast on channel 54(though if you are in DeKalb or are within 50 miles of the tower, you'll get them fine on an outdoor antenna no matter what). In a few years, they'll be able to go 30 kw on channel 13 and blow the roof off, so no worries.

The signal will be 9 db or more lower than their original application, but you should still get them fine with an outdoor antenna within 50 or 60 miles.

All,

I just saw an application whereby they have decided to downgrade and go to 164 kw for their full power, directional mostly to the northeast on channel 54(though if you are in DeKalb or are within 50 miles of the tower, you'll get them fine on an outdoor antenna no matter what). In a few years, they'll be able to go 30 kw on channel 13 and blow the roof off, so no worries.

The signal will be 9 db or more lower than their original application, but you should still get them fine with an outdoor antenna within 50 or 60 miles.
Kinda figured they'd go cheap. With the money they saved, they should buy a new live truck.

WREX-DT sent in a license to cover for their 169 kw signal on Friday.
Signal is up a bit here in DeKalb.

It would have been nice to see the Macy fireworks in HD like advertised in the program guide. What is up with these crazy stations? Even the HD capable ones don't show HD content when they are supposed to. And they conned us into investing HOW MUCH MONEY for THIS?

It would have been nice to see the Macy fireworks in HD like advertised in the program guide. What is up with these crazy stations? Even the HD capable ones don't show HD content when they are supposed to. And they conned us into investing HOW MUCH MONEY for THIS?

I missed that, but three things could have happened.

1. WREX-TV/DT Master Control operator forgot to throw the switch.

2. New York City had rain, and rain knocks out the HD signal sent
to affiliates.

3. Equipment failure.

New York City was clear, so #2 is ruled out. So, either WREX forgot to throw the switch, or something broke somewhere.

I missed that, but three things could have happened.

1. WREX-TV/DT Master Control operator forgot to throw the switch.

2. New York City had rain, and rain knocks out the HD signal sent
to affiliates.

3. Equipment failure.

New York City was clear, so #2 is ruled out. So, either WREX forgot to throw the switch, or something broke somewhere.

1. VERY POSSIBLE. operators at WTVO forget it all the time.

2. Very unlikely. The SD signal will drop first. At least its like that with ABC.

3. Doubtful although I've seen it happen.

4. Cheapness. Every network goes cheap.

5. Lack of HD truck. Happens too.

WQRF-DT this morning officially filed an STA to stay at low power for up to an additional 6 months. Someone on this board (cough, hvs10trk, cough) probably knows more.

WREX-DT is definitely up now with higher power. Noticed a significant boost in signal level on my tuner.

WQRF-DT this morning officially filed an STA to stay at low power for up to an additional 6 months. Someone on this board (cough, hvs10trk, cough) probably knows more.

WREX-DT is definitely up now with higher power. Noticed a significant boost in signal level on my tuner.
Wow...ummm.....they were so excited about going full power. Ill have to contact some insiders. :D

Someone on this board (cough, hvs10trk, cough) probably knows more.
LMAO!! Needed a good laugh this morning. :D

WQRF-DT this morning officially filed an STA to stay at low power for up to an additional 6 months. Someone on this board (cough, hvs10trk, cough) probably knows more.

Still full power HD by end of year. Filing was "just in case" update to license.

I missed that, but three things could have happened.

1. WREX-TV/DT Master Control operator forgot to throw the switch.

2. New York City had rain, and rain knocks out the HD signal sent
to affiliates.

3. Equipment failure.

New York City was clear, so #2 is ruled out. So, either WREX forgot to throw the switch, or something broke somewhere. I went by it on WMAQ-DT and it was 4:3 SD on there, too.

I went by it on WMAQ-DT and it was 4:3 SD on there, too.
NBC went cheap or the truck wasn't available.

So does this mean that WQRF Fox will be broadcasting in HD by the end of the year. Becuase i called in march and they told me a year to 2 years.

So does this mean that WQRF Fox will be broadcasting in HD by the end of the year. Becuase i called in march and they told me a year to 2 years.
Unless the hit a big snag, by the end of the year for them. I worked with them for 3 years. They wont jerk me around.

NBC went cheap or the truck wasn't available.

4. NBC decided to not show it in HD after all. :o

D'oh! Forgot about that option. :-) Yep, it was only in 4:3, so WREX is off the hook.
Call NBC Network in New York...

Still full power HD by end of year. Filing was "just in case" update to license.
Cooooool. :cool:

Unless the hit a big snag, by the end of the year for them. I worked with them for 3 years. They wont jerk me around.

I wonder if I called the office if they would say the same thing?

I wonder if I called the office if they would say the same thing?
I wouldn't seen why not. Unless you get your answer from the receptionist. Keep in mind we (engineers) usually give a time frame for something to come online because there are numerous problems that can arise. They have to install and whole new transmitter/antenna, and you have to take weather in to account. You cannot climb a tower in rain or a thunder storm. It's kinda like landing the space shuttle. 150 things have to happen correctly in order or the timeline is thrown off. When we installed WCIU-DT full power transmitter earlier this year, it took us an extra week because of software glitches in the transmitter. I have faith in them. They are a great bunch of engineers!!

So it looks like they will miss the NFL season again?

So it looks like they will miss the NFL season again?
They quite possibly will be HD before full power. Converting from SD to HD is just changing out an encoder and some minor processing/wiring. Converting to full power is a new antenna, new transmission line, and a new transmitter.

Unless the hit a big snag, by the end of the year for them. I worked with them for 3 years. They wont jerk me around.

No, but the station owners may have a different perspective:

http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/getattachment_exh.cgi?exhibit_id=415274

well it says feb 07 for WQRF so yeah it looks like now football season once again.

well it says feb 07 for WQRF so yeah it looks like now football season once again.

Remember, that's full power. They can go HD earlier.

i think ill call tomorrow and ask

Not good...water in the transmission line going up the tower to the transmitting antenna. Engineers are scrambling to microwave a signal to Insight...not a good sign. That means they could be out for days...

And in DeKalb, WWME-CA 23 and WOCH-LP 41 from Chicago are now booming in.

i think ill call tomorrow and ask
As a former employee and good friend of engineering staff, they will be HD for football season. The full power process has begun but does take a little time.

Engineers are scrambling to microwave a signal to Insight...not a good sign. That means they could be out for days...

I worked with one of them. Days is an understatement.

As a former employee and good friend of engineering staff, they will be HD for football season. The full power process has begun but does take a little time.

I hope so the sooner the better.

any more info on Fox?

any more info on Fox?
Nothing more than HD by football. The full power transmitter will take some time.

Analog is back up at 50% power, no digital. Tomorrow (7--13-06), equipment on the tower gets replaced. They will be off the air while this is done.
After that, if all goes well, analog and digital will be back up to full
power.

At 45 miles out, and not being able to receive WBBM-DT, I sure wish they would jack up the power some, or at least get that antenna up a little higher. CBS (DT) is the only network that's not completely reliable for me.

Sebenste

I am seeing sparkles and jerky motion
in HD broadcasts channel 23. Are you
seeing the same thing?

July 30th 2006

Sebenste

I am seeing sparkles and jerky motion
in HD broadcasts channel 23. Are you
seeing the same thing?

July 30th 2006

I only saw it for several seconds tonight...no problems noted, but again, I only saw it for 5 seconds.

I've got a question for anyone out there who wants to answer:

I never watch WREX-DT, except occasionally late nights (I stay pointed at Chicago mostly, and I get WMAQ fine), but I noticed something about it earlier one evening recently - they were using "stretch-o-vision".

I don't recall ever seeing it used on that affiliate before - has it always been like that? I thought that crap ended with WTVO-DT out by you guys.

I've got a question for anyone out there who wants to answer:

I never watch WREX-DT, except occasionally late nights (I stay pointed at Chicago mostly, and I get WMAQ fine), but I noticed something about it earlier one evening recently - they were using "stretch-o-vision".

I don't recall ever seeing it used on that affiliate before - has it always been like that? I thought that crap ended with WTVO-DT out by you guys.
I dont remember. When I was at WTVO we tried converting to the 4:3 crop on DTV and we were flooded with phone calls telling us to put it back. Eventually they did it anyways. WLS was doing it for quite a while. TNT-HD does is but its a gradual stretch.

I've got a question for anyone out there who wants to answer:

I never watch WREX-DT, except occasionally late nights (I stay pointed at Chicago mostly, and I get WMAQ fine), but I noticed something about it earlier one evening recently - they were using "stretch-o-vision".

I don't recall ever seeing it used on that affiliate before - has it always been like that? I thought that crap ended with WTVO-DT out by you guys.

They started doing it dueing the heat wave in the first week of August, since they had the "heat advisory" bug up all the time. I thought it would be temporary,
but I guess it isn't...they do it all the time when in SD now. It looks bad, of course.

They started doing it dueing the heat wave in the first week of August, since they had the "heat advisory" bug up all the time. I thought it would be temporary,
but I guess it isn't...they do it all the time when in SD now. It looks bad, of course.
I've dealt with their "crack" engineering staff there before so I'm not suprised.

I was recently told over the phone by an Insight salesperson that they are adding many more HD channels sometime soon.

I just talked to customer service and this now sounds like an empty promise.

Anyone here about new HD channels being added for Insight in the Rockford market?

If not, why doesn't Insight offer some of the channels (ESPN2HD, TNTHD, etc) that Dish Network does?

Thanks-

E

I've received 3 different answers the last three times I've spoken with customer service. About 2 months ago I was told new channels were coming. Last month the rep said nothing was being added. Today I was told there are rumors about additional channels coming, but no timetable or definative lineup. I inquired about a few and they said my requests would be forwarded to the marketing department.

Im really just hoping Fox goes HD for football.

Thanks, Larson-
The fact that Insight is sending a mixed message is very frustrating...they seem to have a different answer every time.

I hope that more Rockford area customers will continue to lobby for more HD programming...it is something they need to make a stronger committment to and have a more suitable time table.

Kind of like train service coming back to Rockford...it is nice that it is being talked about but show us some results!

E

I received a letter today from Insight mentioning they are adding ESPN2HD, TNTHD, and MHD (MTV's HD channel). They didn't give a timetable, just saying the changes are coming later this year.

Hi guys, this is my first post. I recently upgraded my D* service to HD. I got 2 new H20 boxes, and was supposed to have an off air antenna installed. To make a long story short, I am getting whatever brand antenna D* gives me installed this friday. I'm hoping to get in the 4 locals here in Rockford. In the meantime, I went to CC and found myself a Phillips Silver Sensor. I can get WTVO, WIFR, and WREX in both analog and HD just fine, but I cannot get anything from WQRF. With some moving of the antenna, I can sometimes get up to 40% on 39-1, but not good enough to watch. I will return the Silver Sensor when D* gets my outdoor antenna up and running. I'm just not holding my breath with the luck I had with the last tech. Has anyone else here ordered the off air outdoor antenna from D*, and what kind of luck have you had with it? I couldn't find anything regarding what brand and model the antenna is.

Don

Hi guys, this is my first post. I recently upgraded my D* service to HD. I got 2 new H20 boxes, and was supposed to have an off air antenna installed. To make a long story short, I am getting whatever brand antenna D* gives me installed this friday. I'm hoping to get in the 4 locals here in Rockford. In the meantime, I went to CC and found myself a Phillips Silver Sensor. I can get WTVO, WIFR, and WREX in both analog and HD just fine, but I cannot get anything from WQRF. With some moving of the antenna, I can sometimes get up to 40% on 39-1, but not good enough to watch. I will return the Silver Sensor when D* gets my outdoor antenna up and running. I'm just not holding my breath with the luck I had with the last tech. Has anyone else here ordered the off air outdoor antenna from D*, and what kind of luck have you had with it? I couldn't find anything regarding what brand and model the antenna is.

Don

Hi Don,

Welcome aboard!

I don't knoiw much about the outdoor antenna, other than it "clips on" to the dish, and those don't provide strong gain. That said...if you are in Rockford, getting the antenna outside might be enough do the trick. The reason why you are not getting Fox is that WQRF is is only at 2,300 watts. According to a statement they sent to the FCC, they are going to be full power by February 1, 2007. Reports from engineers here indicate it may be sooner, though...and they should be in high definition before that time. When they go to full power, they'll be at 1 million watts, and probably melt the antenna right off your dish. ;) :D

If you really want FOX in HD, try tuning to channel 11-1 and see if you can get the signal from Madison. Without an outdoor antenna, however, that will be nearly impossible to do.

I hope that helps!

FYI 11.1 is channel 47.1. 11.1 is their digital channel assignment.

FYI 11.1 is channel 47.1. 11.1 is their digital channel assignment.
There is a TVCT reassign for 47.1, I get 47.1 and 47.2 mapped down as 47.1 and 47.2 on my receiver.

Integra, I get a pretty strong lock on Fox these days, what part of the Rockford area are you in and have you checked the map at http://www.antennaweb.org to see where the transmitters are in conjunction to your home's location?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=63950
.
.
.

I just said it in english. :p

Integra, I get a pretty strong lock on Fox these days, what part of the Rockford area are you in and have you checked the map at *** to see where the transmitters are in conjunction to your home's location?

This is what I get from antennaweb-

WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD IL 285° 10.0
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD IL 285° 10.0
WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD IL 289° 10.1
WTVO 17 ABC ROCKFORD IL 285° 10.0
WQRF 39 FOX ROCKFORD IL 287° 9.7
WIFR 23 CBS FREEPORT IL 289° 10.1
WREX 13 NBC ROCKFORD IL 284° 13.5
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD IL 284° 13.5

I can get a strong signal on all of them (60-95%) except WQRF. I am on the corner of Perryville and Newburg, and not terribly low. I pointed my Silver Sensor north but couldn't get anything from Madison. If the antenna D* gives me is the clip on variety I will not be too thrilled, although they are flipping the bill for it. I did call a local install place and they quoted me 250 for an antenna just for the locals.

Don

This is what I get from antennaweb-

WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD IL 285° 10.0
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD IL 285° 10.0
WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD IL 289° 10.1
WTVO 17 ABC ROCKFORD IL 285° 10.0
WQRF 39 FOX ROCKFORD IL 287° 9.7
WIFR 23 CBS FREEPORT IL 289° 10.1
WREX 13 NBC ROCKFORD IL 284° 13.5
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD IL 284° 13.5

I can get a strong signal on all of them (60-95%) except WQRF. I am on the corner of Perryville and Newburg, and not terribly low. I pointed my Silver Sensor north but couldn't get anything from Madison. If the antenna D* gives me is the clip on variety I will not be too thrilled, although they are flipping the bill for it. I did call a local install place and they quoted me 250 for an antenna just for the locals.

DonI don't care much for clip-ons or indoor antennas (personal preference). I would call Stateline and buy the piggyback Winegard setup that they sell. Lot of those in my area. I think I paid $99 bucks for The antenna, mount, preamp, di-plexors, and install.

I am out in Caledonia, I can lock all Rockford, A couple Madison, 1 Davenport, and a Couple Chicago's with my setup.

http://www.dbstalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5423&d=1141700793

I don't care much for clip-ons or indoor antennas (personal preference). I would call Stateline and buy the piggyback Winegard setup that they sell. Lot of those in my area. I think I paid $99 bucks for The antenna, mount, preamp, di-plexors, and install.

I am out in Caledonia, I can lock all Rockford, A couple Madison, 1 Davenport, and a Couple Chicago's with my setup.

http://www.dbstalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5423&d=1141700793
I'm surprised you do that well with that setup. Is it on a 2nd story or something?

Hey Gang,
Does anyone have a decoder I can buy? I have been having a heck of a time finding one in Rockford. I realize that ebay is a good place but I had too many bad experiences there. I would come and pick it up from you and pay a fair price. I NEED MY HD SIGNAL!!!!!

Thanks

I have an RCA DTC100 Directv receiver which also has a OTA HD/digital tuner that you Don't need to have Directv to use. I'll sell it for $70 bucks including the breakout cable (VGA/RGB to component cable) and an RCA Universal remote. LMK.

I'm surprised you do that well with that setup. Is it on a 2nd story or something?
Yes I have a 2 story home. Winegard has always pulled through for me.

Here's a more current glamor shot.

http://www.dbstalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=5666&d=1146424742

I have an old Samsung SIR-T165 STB, but it doesn't handle PSIP very well at all, in fact I gave up on it long ago. Jeff's solution would likely be less frustrating for you.

I have it from a reliable source that WQRF-39 will be HD some time in the next 2 weeks.

I have an RCA DTC100 Directv receiver which also has a OTA HD/digital tuner that you Don't need to have Directv to use. I'll sell it for $70 bucks including the breakout cable (VGA/RGB to component cable) and an RCA Universal remote. LMK.

Perfect - I'll PM you :D

edit: PM has been sent. Thanks

I have an old Samsung SIR-T165 STB, but it doesn't handle PSIP very well at all, in fact I gave up on it long ago. Jeff's solution would likely be less frustrating for you.
Thanks - I'll work with Jeff.

I have it from a reliable source that WQRF-39 will be HD some time in the next 2 weeks.

Fantastic! Still gunning for full power in February? What about DD 5.1 audio?

Your analog upconvert is excellent thanks to you having the latest generation
of equipment; your HD should be "wow!". And welcome to the board!

On an unrelated topic...I wonder if any Rockford station will be carrying "The Tube" music network anytime in the future?

I have it from a reliable source that WQRF-39 will be HD some time in the next 2 weeks.
Hi AST CHF. Welcome to the boards. Certainly great news to hear. ;)

I currently have a Winegard HD7084-P Antenna with an AP-8700 Amp on a 2nd floor deck. I pull in FOX-47 Madison very well but was wondering if anyone is able to acquire the signal from WFLD FOX 32.1 Chicago from Rockford? I have a somewhat obstructed (trees) line of sight to the Hancock building. Wanted to check before I attempted it...would save some work if someone knows it can't be done.

I don't know where your located, but weather depending, I can occasionally hit Chicago 5 and 32. Now if I turn my antenna, I can lock them pretty good but with an occasional macro-blocking.

So is it possible, sure it is, with the right equipment,... can any of us guarantee that you will be able to.... No.

I'm in Roscoe....according to Antennaweb I am 79 miles to WFLD FOX 32. The Winegard I have has an 60--100 mile range.That's most likely 60 for UHF, 100 for VHF. WFLD-DT is 31 UHF.

That's most likely 60 for UHF, 100 for VHF. WFLD-DT is 31 UHF.

Actually after searching around it looks like the VHF reception range is approximately 80 miles and UHF reception range is approximately 45 miles. So I guess I'm doing good getting all the Madison stations (52 miles)...and at 94-98% signal strength.

I really wish that I could get the Madison channels, I live in Rockton and I cant seem to lock onto any of them with my outdoor anenna. Maybe I need a pre-amp or something like that. I also cant get WQRF which sucks becuase if they do start to broadcast in HD I wont beable to see it until they go full power.

DO you have a rotor? If not you may want to try pointing it due west and you may get both but an amp helps

I really wish that I could get the Madison channels, I live in Rockton and I cant seem to lock onto any of them with my outdoor anenna. Maybe I need a pre-amp or something like that. I also cant get WQRF which sucks becuase if they do start to broadcast in HD I wont beable to see it until they go full power.

You are within 50 miles of all the Madison channels...how big of an antenna are you using? My Winegard HD7084 is a large directional and it needed the AP8700 Amp to work. The towers are NNW from Rockton...facing North approx 11:00 o'clock. I am in Roscoe and can get WQRF even at their reduced power on a small indoor antenna.

Channels

I: 17, 17.1, 23, 23.1, 39, 39.1
J: 13, 13.1
N: 3, 3.1, 21, 27, 27.1, 47, 47.1
O: 15, 15.1 57

I really wish that I could get the Madison channels, I live in Rockton and I cant seem to lock onto any of them with my outdoor anenna. Maybe I need a pre-amp or something like that. I also cant get WQRF which sucks becuase if they do start to broadcast in HD I wont beable to see it until they go full power.
You should be able to see WKOW in madison. Especially in Rockton. I could get them clear as day from downtown Rockford.

Well I'm all set up. I ended up finding a tuner at Circuit City (Samsung) and figured what the heck and paid the $250. Got it home and plugged it into my little $10 RCA rabbit ears and got 85 - 95% readings on

WTVO-DT 17.1
WIFR-DT 23.1
WTVO 17 ABC
WIFR 23 CBS
WREX 13 NBC
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC
WISC 3

Plenty happy with those results. Not bad for a tiny little indoor antenna. From the past I know that I can get more Madison channels if I turn the antenna but I figure that out later.

Tonight's plan. Train my Harmony to do activties with my new toy.

BTW - Thanks for the offer on the DTC100 Jeff.

I couldn't really tell you what kind of antenna I have. I had Bock Antenna install it and i never got any litterature on it. All i know is that Its fairly big, silver, and I get the 3 Rockford channels. I tried turning it awhile ago and I could only get it locked on the ABC in Madison but not the fox. I do have some large trees that were blocking the line of sight. I dont really know but i would really like to get all of the Madison channels, Especially Fox.

I'm giving up. The installer was supposed to come over here between 1-5 today to put up my off air antenna that he failed to bring with last week. He rings my doorbell at about 10:15 (I work nights). It was the same guy from last week. He tells me "it says on my sheet that you have no satellite signal." I told him my satellite is working fine and he is there to install the off air antenna. He once again does not have one with him. He called his boss and said he would be back with one. I don't even want the guy to come back over and disappoint me.

I just got back from Stateline and they quoted me 250 just like Bock did. I'm not going to spend that kind of money to get 4 channels. I'm on high ground with little tree coverage and no buildings. The wiring is already run...would just need to get split. I guess I'm stuck with my Silver Sensor and no WQRF at all until they go full power. What a disappointing and frustrating experience.

Don

Is it hard to install a pre-amp?

Is it hard to install a pre-amp?

Not hard, just a bit tedious. A preamp gets you two pieces: one that goes as close to the antenna as possible, so you have the antenna cable running to it directly, with an output cable running to the (powered) portion that goes nearest your TV as possible. There's no signal loss between the two pieces (unless it's over something like 200'+ long) , and you get a nice bump in signal. That may do the trick for you, so long as the antenna doesn't have an amplifier of it's own.

Recommendation:

http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/AP8700.htm

13-2 took away my favorite radar display. It's now showing the WB, soon to be CW.

13-2 took away my favorite radar display. It's now showing the WB, soon to be CW.You'll live, gilbert. :D :)

Also, 17-2 is now showing "My Netw" instead of "UPN-16" on my Sony tuner's display. I noticed that yesterday.

I wonder if WTVO will show the radar on 39-2? That would be cool, and not in any way affect 39-1. Or WIFR with 23-2? Nah. Let's keep CBS pure.

So I went up and decided to try to get the madison's again. Well this time it worked better than last time. I acually got Fox ABC PBS and CW, i also got NBC but it kept going in and out, which sucks. I wonder why i didnt get CBS. Since I didnt want to loose NBC and CBS i put it back. I guess i will try and get a pre amp.

I wonder if WTVO will show the radar on 39-2? That would be cool, and not in any way affect 39-1. Or WIFR with 23-2? Nah. Let's keep CBS pure.Definitely. CBS is way more important, especially since they show sporting events.

So I went up and decided to try to get the madison's again. Well this time it worked better than last time. I acually got Fox ABC PBS and CW, i also got NBC but it kept going in and out, which sucks. I wonder why i didnt get CBS. Since I didnt want to loose NBC and CBS i put it back. I guess i will try and get a pre amp.If you're getting those results without a pre-amp, then having one should definitely help.

So I went up and decided to try to get the madison's again. Well this time it worked better than last time. I acually got Fox ABC PBS and CW, i also got NBC but it kept going in and out, which sucks. I wonder why i didnt get CBS. Since I didnt want to loose NBC and CBS i put it back. I guess i will try and get a pre amp.

NBC is only at 56 kw, and because of their channel choice, they can't go any higher. CBS might be because of interference with channel 50 in Chicago.
I betcha if you get that preamp, you're going to be amazed at what you get!

Okay I just figure out that I have a Winegard 7084 antenna. Now what would be the pre-amp you guys would recomend to go with that.

Okay I just figure out that I have a Winegard 7084 antenna. Now what would be the pre-amp you guys would recomend to go with that.
Nice antenna. No change in thinking; this Winegard preamp will serve you well.

http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/AP8700.htm

In fact, here is a picture of your antenna with a model similar to the AP8700
that this person mounted on the mast.

http://www.tvantenna.com/products/tvreception/amplifiers/preamp.html

If you want the weather map its on 15.2 from Madison.

WQAD out of Moline runs a Doppler feed on 8.3 as well.

Do you think there is any chance of getting Chicago's locals from Rockton?

I'm in Caledonia. Your a bit further out....not sure.

Jeff and Jason,

Wish I could get those. But at 56 kw, 15.2 is too weak to pick up from DeKalb (19 from Chicago, WGN-DT also stomps on it here, even with a CM 4228 antenna),
and 8.3 is blocked by a large ridge to my west which runs north-south through far eastern Ogle and Lee counties. How about it 39-2?

Jgags,

If you want a better shot, you could try the Winegard AP-8275 amp. That really
cranks up the gain, also available from Warren. But, you then risk overloading on the Rockford stations, causing you to not get them anymore.

Once you are over the 60 mile Chicago broadcast reception line-of-sight horizon, all bets are off. If you are on a hill or high area, you have a shot. Way earlier in this thread, people have talked about how they could solidly lock WTTW-DT in Rockford from State street near Rockford College, but that was with the largest Winegard antenna, twice the size of yours...and outside, with a preamplifier.

Do you think there is any chance of getting Chicago's locals from Rockton?
Doubtful. Rockton is pretty low. When I worked at WTVO we could only do live shots from several points in town. You could try but don't be dissapointed if it doesnt work. You'd be better trying madison.

Jeff and Jason,

Wish I could get those. But at 56 kw, 15.2 is too weak to pick up from DeKalb (19 from Chicago, WGN-DT also stomps on it here, even with a CM 4228 antenna),
and 8.3 is blocked by a large ridge to my west which runs north-south through far eastern Ogle and Lee counties. How about it 39-2?

Jgags,

If you want a better shot, you could try the Winegard AP-8275 amp. That really
cranks up the gain, also available from Warren. But, you then risk overloading on the Rockford stations, causing you to not get them anymore.

Once you are over the 60 mile Chicago broadcast reception line-of-sight horizon, all bets are off. If you are on a hill or high area, you have a shot. Way earlier in this thread, people have talked about how they could solidly lock WTTW-DT in Rockford from State street near Rockford College, but that was with the largest Winegard antenna, twice the size of yours...and outside, with a preamplifier.
Insight Com. locks WTTW from Loves park but thats with a 200'+ tower and the picture ain't all that great.

Alright, looks like i will just go for Madison. Is there any place to get the pre-amp here in Rockford. I hate waiting for things when I order them online.

Bock or Jaytronics

I'm doing pretty good this weekend.

I turned my antenna's azimuth about 20 degrees further north.

I picked up a few more stations, although my receiver will not translate the guide info. Most likely cause I don't get those channels through satellite, so it doesn't have the EPG info to populate the fields.

The one thing I don't understand is, even though the sat receiver provided the guide data, it still uses PSIP to indentify the station. The problem I don't understand is on channel 35.1, the channel does not indent, but the rest of the 35 subs do. Weird.

Here some pics, sorry about the CRT in these pics.

Two more.

Bock or Jaytronics
Jaytronics is a great store. Used to do tons of business with them.

bump. close to falling off.

a
a
a
a
h
h
h
!

So i got the pre amp, Installed it, but i still cannot get CBS. I get all of the others. This is really disapointing, i thought for sure that this would work. Any pointers?

Is there I reason I am not getting FOX? I get other channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, CW?) at 90+%. I actually get a 75-80% signal from Fox but no pic. Probably obvious but could some one please help me out.

BTW - just using a litte RCA indoor antenna.

WQRF isnt up to full power, im also in rockton and i have an antenna on my roof and i never get fox. I was told today that WQRF is going to broadcast HD starting sunday, but that doesnt nessararaly mean that they will push it up to full power

So i got the pre amp, Installed it, but i still cannot get CBS. I get all of the others. This is really disapointing, i thought for sure that this would work. Any pointers?

Madison CBS is Channel 3.1. I'm getting it in Roscoe.

3.1 is the weekest Madison channel I get. I have to pretty much point my antennas due north to get it. I dont really need it because 23.1 has everything I want. Until/if the Packers and the Bears play at the same time on CBS which I dont think happens.

Got 3.1 for a couple days. Nothing lately though.

Thanks jgags6 I 'll wait patiently

So i got the pre amp, Installed it, but i still cannot get CBS. I get all of the others. This is really disapointing, i thought for sure that this would work. Any pointers?

Punch in channel 41-1. See if you can get it directly. Do you have a signal strength meter, and if so, what does it say? How does analog 23 come in, any way you can check?

WQRF isnt up to full power, im also in rockton and i have an antenna on my roof and i never get fox. I was told today that WQRF is going to broadcast HD starting sunday, but that doesnt nessararaly mean that they will push it up to full power
They're not ready for full power yet. That involves some construction work still yet to come.

Is there I reason I am not getting FOX? I get other channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, CW?) at 90+%. I actually get a 75-80% signal from Fox but no pic. Probably obvious but could some one please help me out.

BTW - just using a litte RCA indoor antenna.
WQRF-DT is strong to the south and east. Where are you located?

so what are the odds that WQRF will be broadcasting the game in HD tomorrow?

Not sure where they're transmitting from, but I believe that their signal emanates from the lowest point of all the digital channels.

WQRF-DT is strong to the south and east. Where are you located?
Rockton

Not sure where they're transmitting from, but I believe that their signal emanates from the lowest point of all the digital channels.
WTVO's tower most of the way up.

Rockton
You should be able to receive them. Hopefully you're not right up by the river. Otherwise you should see them. Heck I could get a live shot from Old Settler's day from the bank!!

You should be able to receive them. Hopefully you're not right up by the river. Otherwise you should see them. Heck I could get a live shot from Old Settler's day from the bank!!

It's weird? I look on antennaweb.org and I see that the Fox tower is right in line with the other towers that I get and it's the same distance (same tower?) and no dice. Whatever, I'll just sit tight.

thats the same probelm im having, except i cant get CBS

thats the same probelm im having, except i cant get CBS
Rockford or Madison?

I cant get the madison CBS, but i get all the others.

As I said in post #390 3.1 is the most difficult to get.

well so much for WQRF broadcasting in HD today

As I said in post #390 3.1 is the most difficult to get.
And that because analog WPWR-50 in Chicago, 5 million watts at 1,800', causes interference. 3.1 is at high power.

Also noticed WQRF at no HD today...hopefully soon. There are upgrades going on at WQRF and at their CBS sttions in Peoria and Champaign over the next month.

I'm wondering - Does WIFR-DT broadcast the CBS network shows in 5.1 ??
Not set up to receive 5.1 here yet but hope to be soon.
Thanks :)

No I dont believe that any of the locals in rockford broadcast in 5.1

No I dont believe that any of the locals in rockford broadcast in 5.1
I know WTVO does broadcast in 5.1. I've crashed the Dolby Encoder many times.

I'm wondering - Does WIFR-DT broadcast the CBS network shows in 5.1 ??
Not set up to receive 5.1 here yet but hope to be soon.
Thanks :)
Reliable sources believe so.

As of 10:30 PM on 9/29/06, WQRF-DT, at a mere 2.3 kilowatts, has become the final "full power" (I know, I know) station in the Rockford market to go HD.
As I type this, they're still obviously hooking stuff up, but they are now 720p,
and I am guessing that they are passing DD 5.1 audio. You know how good their
upconvert looks. Now that they're using the latest and spankin' new HD encoders,
I betcha NFL football is going to look real sharp!

For those of you with high def TV's hooked up to decent antennas, congratulations. You are going to have a great weekend. Next goal is full power in February 2009, so sayeth corporate HQ.

Edit: 11:05 PM...back to 480i. May have had a problem, who knows, but they're
obviously getting very close!

Thats great news!

I live in Byron and can recieve 13, 17, +23. What power are those stations running at and do you think I will be able to recieve FOX at 2.3 power?

WQRF (39.1) is configuring the Fox supplied equipment for HD at this time. They havn't been on in 720p at all yet. But keep your fingers crossed. It could happen in time for football this Sunday.
Also they are looking to be full power by year end. They will be on WTVO's tower.

Byron should be able to get them now with a rooftop antenna with good cable.
(Belden 8192) RG-6 works best. Stay away from the cheap stuff. You want the best shield possible.

WQRF (39.1) is configuring the Fox supplied equipment for HD at this time. They havn't been on in 720p at all yet. But keep your fingers crossed. It could happen in time for football this Sunday.
Also they are looking to be full power by year end. They will be on WTVO's tower.

Byron should be able to get them now with a rooftop antenna with good cable.
(Belden 8192) RG-6 works best. Stay away from the cheap stuff. You want the best shield possible.

Hi Assistant Chief,

I had them in at 720p briefly Friday night during a tweak. Maybe that was an accident, but in either case...a birdie told me it may not be until sometime this week. Of course, if you are the WQRF Assistant Chief in-the-know, then just call me "Assistant Chef". :)

NewT...Re: receiving WQRF-DT: in my install, I used quad-shielded RG-6 (copper core) from Lowe's. Got it on sale for half price, utterly stunned. OK, it wasn't Belden, but it was still very good and a steal for the price. Even with my ChannelMaster 4228 on the north side of and inside my attic, WQRF-DT locks easily for me here in DeeeeeKalb and at a friend's house in Waterman 10 miles south of me using a large Winegard combo antenna and a ChannelMaster 7777 preamp for both of us.

Power as of right now:

WREX-DT: 160 kw
WTVO-DT: 190 kw
WIFR-DT: 53 kw
WQRF-DT 2.3 kw (with, as "Ast Chf" notes, 1 mw by 1/1/2007, easily becoming Rockford's strongest digital station)

Edit: OK, at 10:45 PM Saturday 9/30/06, they are doing "stretch-o-vision". They are
doing something to try to fix that. It actually looks like the HD feed stretched. It is!!!
The upconverted SD commercials don't look quite as sharp now. Must be going through new equipment that needs to be tweaked. So they are now EXTREMELY close to getting this. Man, they really want Sunday NFL in HD, gang!

WQRF (39.1) is configuring the Fox supplied equipment for HD at this time. They havn't been on in 720p at all yet. But keep your fingers crossed. It could happen in time for football this Sunday.
Also they are looking to be full power by year end. They will be on WTVO's tower.

Byron should be able to get them now with a rooftop antenna with good cable.
(Belden 8192) RG-6 works best. Stay away from the cheap stuff. You want the best shield possible.
You're not trying hard enough!!! Don't make me come out there, I know where you work. :D

You're not trying hard enough!!! Don't make me come out there, I know where you work. :D

Wow, HVS! You scared him! And at 11:30 PM, WQRF is passing 720p, I see the Fox HD-only logo cut off at bottom right. They got some work to do, but he's really close. Making the poor dude work in Rockford on Saturday night. Have mercy! :D

(And way to go, to whoever is putting in the extra 10 miles!!!!! (Standing ovation))

The blue logo was a leftover from a firmware upgrade. I blasted it at 7:15ish.

Fox didnt have ANY HD programming tonight so stretch OOO vision was automatic on their part unfortunatly. Our local up-converted video looks excelent with the new Evertz up-converters compared to others we've demo'd. I'm looking forward to seeing the HD games on Sunday.


Dekalb can get us now from any 20 foot+ agl elevation for the most part. Our signal kicks to the SE. I was there and east to Cortland with our live truck doing field strength measurments and only had 10-15 feet of mast in the air in the south lot of the new arena and over by Annnie Glidden/38. We were received in Kingston/ Malta/Kirkland at ground level. Obviously the bad areas in the west and north will improve greatly once we go high power in a couple months.

Quad shield is awsome. Basicly anything rated at 70%+ shielding will do for the avarage household length. Quad is 90+. Obviously stay away from ordinary RG-59. Most of that is 40-60%. You'll lose 70% of your UHF signal before it gets anywhere near your Rx. Good cable is essencial when it comes to anything digital. Use good F connectors also and make sure there's no braid sticking out the rear of them.

The blue logo was a leftover from a firmware upgrade. I blasted it at 7:15ish.

Fox didnt have ANY HD programming tonight so stretch OOO vision was automatic on their part unfortunatly. Our local up-converted video looks excelent with the new Evertz up-converters compared to others we've demo'd. I'm looking forward to seeing the HD games on Sunday.


Dekalb can get us now from any 20 foot+ agl elevation for the most part. Our signal kicks to the SE. I was there and east to Cortland with our live truck doing field strength measurments and only had 10-15 feet of mast in the air in the south lot of the new arena and over by Annnie Glidden/38. We were received in Kingston/ Malta/Kirkland at ground level. Obviously the bad areas in the west and north will improve greatly once we go high power in a couple months.

Quad shield is awsome. Basicly anything rated at 70%+ shielding will do for the avarage household length. Quad is 90+. Obviously stay away from ordinary RG-59. Most of that is 40-60%. You'll lose 70% of your UHF signal before it gets anywhere near your Rx. Good cable is essencial when it comes to anything digital. Use good F connectors also and make sure there's no braid sticking out the rear of them.

Hey AC,

OK. Weird, it looked like you were showing HD stuff because I was getting more on the screen than analog. Must be my TV. Any chance you could kill the stretch during non-HD programs? You obviously lose quality when you do that. WTVO looks good with 4:3. When it was stretched...ugh. After you get some sleep and a few days off for your hard work, can you make it so?

As for your quad shielded comments, "standing O" again! Be safe rather than sorry. RG-59 loss is bru-tal, as you note. I would go even further and say excellent cable is needed for anything digital. I am QS RG-6 from antenna to TV,
including all of my "jumpers". And of course, the #1 reception problem is
typically bad connections/poor connectors.

Your station group in Rockford is in the best position by far for market penetration.
WREX is good but is on 54, difficult for some antennas to handle. I wish they could have gone 1 mil watts, but that's an electric bill they decided they couldn't handle; can't blame them there. WIFR gets killed by WOCH-CA 41 in Chicago to the east and southeast, and at 53 kw, doesn't have the punch to go west very well into the
hills and the valleys from the Rock River in Ogle county to the west side of Freeport and west. I hope that changes after analog bye-bye. WTVO is in a great channel position for most antennas to handle very well, and gets little interference except from South Bend on tropo nights...but your 190 kw stomps on that in your ADI. One million watters on 42...
speaks for itself. I just wish you had that at 2,000' AGL. Would be nice to see
you in Chicago. :D

And if HVS keeps giving you hassle, don't worry. We know where he works! ;) :D

P.S. Any chance you could use 2 mb of that leftover 19.3 mb pie to add your
17 StormTracker to 39.2? This is the only market in the region that I know of that doesn't have a weather subchannel on any full-power station.

Hi all,

Just got an HDTV and am currently using some rabbitears. I am able to pull in WIFR and WTVO, but no other digital stations. I live in Rockford in the Alpine/Spring Creek area (top of the hill). I was wondering if any of you had suggestions for a different indoor antenna? I realize that isn't the ideal setup, but that's what I have to live with for now.

I am looking to get WQRF(which sounds like a slim chance for now until they boost the signal) and WREX. Below are my results from antennaweb:

Call sign Network City State Compass Miles Freq.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD IL 270° 6.9 41
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD IL 265° 7.0 16
WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD IL 265° 7.0 42
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD IL 271° 10.4 54

its a great day, WQRF is in HD now

Hi all,

Just got an HDTV and am currently using some rabbitears. I am able to pull in WIFR and WTVO, but no other digital stations. I live in Rockford in the Alpine/Spring Creek area (top of the hill). I was wondering if any of you had suggestions for a different indoor antenna? I realize that isn't the ideal setup, but that's what I have to live with for now.

I am looking to get WQRF(which sounds like a slim chance for now until they boost the signal) and WREX. Below are my results from antennaweb:

Call sign Network City State Compass Miles Freq.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD IL 270° 6.9 41
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD IL 265° 7.0 16
WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD IL 265° 7.0 42
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD IL 271° 10.4 54

You should be able to get everything with a "Silver Sensor" antenna. More than likely, you are getting "ghosts" (multipath) which is keeping you from getting WIFR and WQRF. I would say two things:

1. If you are using "rabbit ears" and nothing else, that's a VHF antenna. I'm surprised you're getting anything! Move 'em around if you can, but keep them short. UHF wavelengths mean your antenna rods need to be pretty small.

2. A Radio Shack combo antenna that sits on your TV may work very well since you are so close to the transmitters. That's what I would do.

3. Eventually, if you want to go for broke, get a ChannelMaster 4221 or 4228 with a rotor and get Madison and some Chicago stations as well.

its a great day, WQRF is in HD now

I can compare WFLD-DT 31 Chicago with WQRF by pushing a button. I show
no difference in the quality of each picture. Both are fantastic. Ast Chf, where do we send the check? :D (Oh yeah, Alpine Road. :) )

I assume the setup is not yet complete, so not every program will be in HD for a while? And thanks for killing the stretchy on the 480i stuff. It looks GREAT!

Are you passing 5.1 audio?

1. If you are using "rabbit ears" and nothing else, that's a VHF antenna. I'm surprised you're getting anything! Move 'em around if you can, but keep them short. UHF wavelengths mean your antenna rods need to be pretty small.

I guess I could have been more specific. I'm actually using a rabbit ear/loop combo antenna that I bought from RadioShack(no gain control).

I think my next move is going to be trying a "silver sensor" type antenna. Thanks a lot for the suggestions.

No plans yet with the extra bandwidth but I'll toss the idea around.
(Find me a sponsor for it and its' a done deal :)

I'll look into the 4x3/16x9 issue tomorrow and attempt to "make it so" Right now I need sleep.

WTVO digital is running at 85%. When we kick it up to 100 we hit downtown Chicago with ease. Tube life span is a major concern at $37k each so we keep the power on the low side of legal.

No plans yet with the extra bandwidth but I'll toss the idea around.
(Find me a sponsor for it and its' a done deal :)

Can I toss ya $10? :-) Seriously, though, it's community service. And it's not
being seen 23 hours and 50 minutes out of the day. Throw it on cable and run
"crawl" ads or still images in a corner like they do in the other markets, and
you make some bucks and get more exposure. If nothing else, it's a loss leader.
I should have been in weather marketing! :D

I'll look into the 4x3/16x9 issue tomorrow and attempt to "make it so" Right now I need sleep.

Well, I saw you tweaking during the bull riding stuff and it's back to nice-looking 4:3 now. Go get some rest!
WTVO digital is running at 85%. When we kick it up to 100 we hit downtown Chicago with ease. Tube life span is a major concern at $37k each so we keep the power on the low side of legal.
190 kw x .85 = 161.5 kw. I assume you're allowed 15% variance? 161 kw does the trick for covering Rockford's ADI nicely. 15% less gains you significantly more life?

Anyway, I now expect more lurkers coming onboard to ask how they can get WQRF-DT, since cable and sat won't be picking it up anytime soon (well, OK, maybe Dish Network).

Hey Everyone,

I'm new here and am very interested in getting WQRF-DT. Sebenste, why do you say that cable and sat won't be carrying it anytime soon?

Thanks for all the info!!

Hi all,

Just got an HDTV and am currently using some rabbitears. I am able to pull in WIFR and WTVO, but no other digital stations. I live in Rockford in the Alpine/Spring Creek area (top of the hill). I was wondering if any of you had suggestions for a different indoor antenna? I realize that isn't the ideal setup, but that's what I have to live with for now.

I am looking to get WQRF(which sounds like a slim chance for now until they boost the signal) and WREX. Below are my results from antennaweb:

Call sign Network City State Compass Miles Freq.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD IL 270° 6.9 41
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD IL 265° 7.0 16
WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD IL 265° 7.0 42
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD IL 271° 10.4 54The first thing I would try is a dedicated UHF antenna.

Something like the Zenith Silver Sensor (first choice) or the Radio Shack double bowtie (if you can still find one).

The first thing I would try is a dedicated UHF antenna.

Something like the Zenith Silver Sensor (first choice) or the Radio Shack double bowtie (if you can still find one).

I went out today and bought a Silver Sensor from Circuit City. It boosted my signal from WTVO and WIFR by about 20%, but I'm still not able to get any signal from WQRF or WREX. Any other suggestions besides an outdoor antenna? I know that I'll be able to get WQRF when they finally go full power(unfortunately after football season...), but I'm confused as to why WREX isn't coming in at all. I'm not getting any static on the analog of WQRF or WREX, but there is some slight ghosting, although better since I've gotten the Silver Sensor. Thanks for your continued help.

I went out today and bought a Silver Sensor from Circuit City. It boosted my signal from WTVO and WIFR by about 20%, but I'm still not able to get any signal from WQRF or WREX. Any other suggestions besides an outdoor antenna? I know that I'll be able to get WQRF when they finally go full power(unfortunately after football season...), but I'm confused as to why WREX isn't coming in at all. I'm not getting any static on the analog of WQRF or WREX, but there is some slight ghosting, although better since I've gotten the Silver Sensor. Thanks for your continued help.
Sounds like you might have multipath issues. Have you tried placing it in every spot imaginable?

I had read the rumors here that we were going to see the 'the beloved bears' in HD sometime this season, but I tried not to get to excited. But as I flipped through the NFL games this afternoon, and I realized FOX NFL was in HD, I about fell outta my chair. I actually yelled for my wife to come see.

Thanks to the engineer's and all who pushed this through.......looks like this maybe a season to tivo all of these now HD Chicago Bear wins! I'm sure as you tweak the new installs our feed will continue to get better and better. Nice Job. I have been waiting for a couple of years on this one, like most of us, and I'm pretty happy.

Andy

Sounds like you might have multipath issues. Have you tried placing it in every spot imaginable?
Multipath isn't really a problem out there unless you're right in downtown Rockford. What town are you located in (if you dont mind me asking)?

Multipath isn't really a problem out there unless you're right in downtown Rockford. What town are you located in (if you dont mind me asking)?

I live in the northwest part Alpine/Spring Creek area. So I'm at the top of the hill, not down in the trough.


Sounds like you might have multipath issues. Have you tried placing it in every spot imaginable?

I've tried moving it around a bit, but I need to do a little more of that.

I live in the northwest part Alpine/Spring Creek area. So I'm at the top of the hill, not down in the trough.
I've tried moving it around a bit, but I need to do a little more of that.

I agree with HVS and Ramm, multipath is hurting you, and you probbly have a 4th generation tuner, which doesn't handle that well.

Get it as close to the outside facing towards the west side of Rockford as you possibly can. Signal strength is probably not an issue for you, just the multipath.
Even though Halloween is still a month away, the ghosts have to go! :D

Well I did move my antenna around a bit and still had no luck. Then I realized that I was forgetting to rescan for channels! I completely forgot that the channel number isn't inherently associated with the frequency they are broadcasting on. So once I rescanned, I'm now getting all of the Rockford channels and actually can get WKOW if I move the antenna a bit. Again, thanks to everyone for all of your help with everything. I certainly wouldn't have pulled this off myself(atleast not with spending a lot more time and $$$).

Well I did move my antenna around a bit and still had no luck. Then I realized that I was forgetting to rescan for channels! I completely forgot that the channel number isn't inherently associated with the frequency they are broadcasting on. So once I rescanned, I'm now getting all of the Rockford channels and actually can get WKOW if I move the antenna a bit. Again, thanks to everyone for all of your help with everything. I certainly wouldn't have pulled this off myself(atleast not with spending a lot more time and $$$).

No problem! I wish all HD problems were that easy to solve. :D Enjoy!

No problem! I wish all HD problems were that easy to solve. :D Enjoy!
He should'a included his address so we could send him the bill. :D

He should'a included his address so we could send him the bill. :D :D

Is it me, or is WREX doing alot of 4:3 HD broadcasts these days?

I was flipping back and forth between WREX and KWQC during last nights Bears game, and KWQC was broadcasting it in wide-screen and DD5.1. Is anyone else seeing this or am I having PSIP issues again?

I also love how KWQC's alternative to grey-bars during replays and commercials, they fill the grey-bar area with a blurred doubled image, sounds weird but it really does beat the heck out of grey-bar. I'll have to get a screen capture of this next time I see it.

Is it me, or is WREX doing alot of 4:3 HD broadcasts these days?

I was flipping back and forth between WREX and KWQC during last nights Bears game, and KWQC was broadcasting it in wide-screen and DD5.1. Is anyone else seeing this or am I having PSIP issues again?

I also love how KWQC's alternative to grey-bars during replays and commercials, they fill the grey-bar area with a blurred doubled image, sounds weird but it really does beat the heck out of grey-bar. I'll have to get a screen capture of this next time I see it.
Sunday Night Football was 16:9 with 2.0 audio. As for KWQC, they dont control the grey bars during replays, that was NBC.

Sunday Night Football was 16:9 with 2.0 audio. As for KWQC, they dont control the grey bars during replays, that was NBC.


Dont you have work to do there or do you get paid to sit and surf forums all day long?

Dont you have work to do there or do you get paid to sit and surf forums all day long?
Hi TVChief. Welcome to the Forums. I feel like I know you. Actually yes I do get paid to venture here.

Hey gang,

I am red-faced, embarrassed, in other words, OOPS!
WQRF-DT is owned by NEXSTAR broadcasting, not Sinclair. I deleted my post
about it probably not being on Insight. As a matter of fact, Nexstar DOES have a good record of getting their HD signals on cable. So, mea culpa, sorry about that.
And I therefore now DO expect FOX on Insight pretty soon!!!

Gilbert

Ok guys i just purchased a mits SR-HD5 and a indoor antenna from radio shack. I can get in almost all Rockford locals. The only question that I have is there a way to make the digital channels stretch to fill in the whole screen. The regular locals with the antenna fills the whole screen so does the cable. I am using component cables and have the receiver set to full. Was watching a couple of shows on 23 last night that said to be in HD but my screen still had bars on the side. Is this how it's suppose to be or do I have something set wrong. Thanks

They were there because of the storm warnings. They cant stay HD and have the warnings up at the same time. They (13.1,17.1 & 23.1)usually have bars up when they are showing something that is not broadcast in HD/digital

Thanks Jeff. So if no storm warnings tonight I should see some shows in hd widescreen?

After doing some more tweaking with the antenna, I am now able to pick all of the UHF digital stations that from Rockford, Freeport, Madison and Janesville. I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for an indoor VHF antenna so that I could pick up the Fox station from Madison?

After doing some more tweaking with the antenna, I am now able to pick all of the UHF digital stations that from Rockford, Freeport, Madison and Janesville. I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for an indoor VHF antenna so that I could pick up the Fox station from Madison?
Indoors on a set-top, no way...60 miles from the transmitter. You'll need a Radio Shack VU-160 with an amp or better to get it. 120 is too small, 190 would work great but it is BIG.

BTW, WQRF-DT looks a tad darker than WFLD-DT tonight, but both look excellent.

Tooskinny,

They were all in HD tonight.

Gilbert

Indoors on a set-top, no way...


That's what I figured. Oh well, I suppose there is such a thing as asking for too much :rolleyes:

That's what I figured. Oh well, I suppose there is such a thing as asking for too much :rolleyes:

Asking for too much is no problem. It's the *getting* too much that is hard to do. :D

Thanks Jeff. So if no storm warnings tonight I should see some shows in hd widescreen?

WTVO should not have to drop out of HD anymore. We have a new piece of equipment in place so that we can stay in HD and key our weather info. WQRF on the other hand does not work the same and may end up dropping out of HD for weather situations.

Thanks Gilbert it all came in fine. I cannot seem to get the fox in HD. Is it a 39-1 or a different channel. I get all other with a indoor antenna.

WTVO should not have to drop out of HD anymore. We have a new piece of equipment in place so that we can stay in HD and key our weather info. WQRF on the other hand does not work the same and may end up dropping out of HD for weather situations.


Yea, But I installed it so dont take ALL the credit :p

Yea, But I installed it so dont take ALL the credit :p
Oh yeah, well i put the cable ties there that you had to cut off. :D

Thanks Gilbert it all came in fine. I cannot seem to get the fox in HD. Is it a 39-1 or a different channel. I get all other with a indoor antenna.
It's physical, or true broadcast channel is 42. So punch in 42 or 42-1, depending on what your tuner lets you do, and see what you get. Now that the weather is better, it may help.

And how many engineers does it take to install HD equipment to drop weather bulletins in without dropping to SD? 3. :D

Virtual pats on the back from appreciative viewers: priceless. :)

Any ideas as to why WREX is frozen on a screen shot of nascar but still has the current sound?

Any ideas as to why WREX is frozen on a screen shot of nascar but still has the current sound?

Probably not monitoring their DTV.

on wqrf, when a hd show is on, have any of u guys noticed where the fox logo is, it is like half on the screen in the lower right hand side, i was just wondering if this is really where its suppose to be or if the just messed up on that. Thanks

on wqrf, when a hd show is on, have any of u guys noticed where the fox logo is, it is like half on the screen in the lower right hand side, i was just wondering if this is really where its suppose to be or if the just messed up on that. Thanks
If it's a network logo, Ive noticed several networks like that. ABC is good for that too. Fox Chicago is another guilty one.

Ok, here's the deal. I can pick up Madison 3.1 with a pretty low signal. But when I tune to Fox (Rockford 39-1) I get almost 3x the signal strength but no picture or sound. Am I doing something wrong??

on wqrf, when a hd show is on, have any of u guys noticed where the fox logo is, it is like half on the screen in the lower right hand side, i was just wondering if this is really where its suppose to be or if the just messed up on that. ThanksIf it's half-off, I wouldn't complain. :rolleyes:

You should see the CW logo on the Chicago affiliate. Makes you want to scream. :eek: :mad: :D

(Haven't noticed if yours is the same, but my guess is that it very likely is.)

No matter where i place my indoor antenna i cannot seem to get fox hd. I asked before and was told it was not 39-1 but all the other -1 channels are not fox. Any help on how to pick this up. I pick up all the other locals.

Well 39.1 maybe a little too far away for an indoor antenna. 47.1 probably is for that matter too

i did get 47-1 but i scanned and now it's gone. Is that fox also?

yes

i did get 47-1 but i scanned and now it's gone. Is that fox also?

I see you're in S. Beloit so I am assuming you are about 1 mile or so from my place. I can't get fox either. I can get Madison 3.1 at 48 miles away but I can't get Fox from Rockford at 13.9 miles. Something is goofy here?

WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD 212° 13.3 41 get 95% sig
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD 211° 13.9 16 get 95% sig
WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD 211° 13.9 42 get 75% sig but no pic
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD 224° 15.3 54 get 95%
WMSN-DT 47.1 FOX MADISON WI 330° 48.2 11 nope
WISC-DT 3.1 CBS MADISON WI 330° 48.2 50 50% or so looks fine
WKOW-DT 27.1 ABC MADISON WI 330° 48.2 26 nope

If it's half-off, I wouldn't complain. :rolleyes:

You should see the CW logo on the Chicago affiliate. Makes you want to scream. :eek: :mad: :D

(Haven't noticed if yours is the same, but my guess is that it very likely is.)
Like the faces. Makes the whole post. :D

Well 39.1 maybe a little too far away for an indoor antenna. 47.1 probably is for that matter too
I agree. You need something outside. WQRF-DT for the moment is low power digital. If you can wait a bit they'll have a slammin signal soon. ;)

I see you're in S. Beloit so I am assuming you are about 1 mile or so from my place. I can't get fox either. I can get Madison 3.1 at 48 miles away but I can't get Fox from Rockford at 13.9 miles. Something is goofy here?

WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD 212° 13.3 41 get 95% sig
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD 211° 13.9 16 get 95% sig
WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD 211° 13.9 42 get 75% sig but no pic
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD 224° 15.3 54 get 95%
WMSN-DT 47.1 FOX MADISON WI 330° 48.2 11 nope
WISC-DT 3.1 CBS MADISON WI 330° 48.2 50 50% or so looks fine
WKOW-DT 27.1 ABC MADISON WI 330° 48.2 26 nope
Rockton is a tough town, especially if you're close to downtown. South Beloit shouldn't have problems, unless you've got multipath problems.

Any ideas as to why WREX is frozen on a screen shot of nascar but still has the current sound?
I may be a newly registered user on AVS Forum, but I have been a lurker and viewer of HD since 2004. I recently moved to Rockford, IL from the San Francisco Bay Area. I also purchased a new TiVo Series 3 HD unit the day it was released. I've had it for a couple weeks now. It's awesome!

I must say that on one hand I am impressed that the Rockford market has all of the major networks in HD OTA (with the newest additions being Fox WQRF).

However, I am extremely dissapointed in the quality control of most, in not all, of the local affiliates here in Rockford.

I just got around to watching Thursday night TV on my TiVo (time-shifting for the uninitiated) and I was dissapointed to see that the all of My Name Is Earl and half of The Office was stuck on a still frame of a Nascar broadcast.

I've seen numerous problems from all four major network affiliates in Rockford and I am not pleased. I know some of these problems are being dealt with (e.g. emergency weather broadcast dropping into SD) But there are still too many issues that are unacceptable.

WQRF... please do not show SD broadcasts at 720p stretched. Let us decide how to handle these broadcast with our own equipment. Show the broadcast in its native format, please. (Congrats on going HD, BTW. The MLB games look fabulous!)

WREX... do you know that Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune are now available in HD. Why aren't you showing them in HD?!?!

I've seen too many late shows in HD where the local broadcast is SD at the beginnings and ends (the endings are my favorite, whatever guest music group performs).

Basically, if it's in HD then SHOW IT IN HD, FOR PETE'S SAKE!!! (and not a still frame from a previous Nascar broadcast).

Just get it right.. all the time! It's your job! (please don't make me report you to the fcc)

(End of late night, three martini flame)

--Jazzjukebox

For me, it seems like WQRF is coming in a bit steadier/stronger since going HD. Maybe a coincidence, I don't know, but I haven't had many reception issues since the switch. My signal strength is ranges from 58 to 70. That's about the threshold for acceptability. Not as strong as the other three networks (all over 90) but strong enough to watch without breakups, for the most part.

The Series 3 TiVo is probably partly due some credit. I've heard lots of other positive reports about its ATSC tuners in the Tivo Community Forum on AVS. I'm not using any outdoor antennae. I've got two indoor antennae: Zenith Silver Sensor and an older Radio Shack Amplified VHF-UHF Indoor HDTV antenna model 15-1880 running through a combiner. Works pretty well.

-Jazzjukebox

I just got around to watching Thursday night TV on my TiVo (time-shifting for the uninitiated) and I was dissapointed to see that the all of My Name Is Earl and half of The Office was stuck on a still frame of a Nascar broadcast.

I've seen numerous problems from all four major network affiliates in Rockford and I am not pleased. I know some of these problems are being dealt with (e.g. emergency weather broadcast dropping into SD) But there are still too many issues that are unacceptable.

WQRF... please do not show SD broadcasts at 720p stretched. Let us decide how to handle these broadcast with our own equipment. Show the broadcast in its native format, please. (Congrats on going HD, BTW. The MLB games look fabulous!)

WREX... do you know that Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune are now available in HD. Why aren't you showing them in HD?!?!

I've seen too many late shows in HD where the local broadcast is SD at the beginnings and ends (the endings are my favorite, whatever guest music group performs).

Basically, if it's in HD then SHOW IT IN HD, FOR PETE'S SAKE!!! (and not a still frame from a previous Nascar broadcast).

Just get it right.. all the time! It's your job! (please don't make me report you to the fcc)

(End of late night, three martini flame)

--Jazzjukebox

OK, to answer your questions...

WREX had major equipment failure. Unfortunately, in small TV markets, you'll learn fast that stations not only go off the air, but digitals can go off for a while.
Expensive backups like San Fran and other large markets have aren't available
here. Sad, but true. They do their best and got back on the air as quick as they could, I more than bet.

720p...read above. 4:3 is coming. They are still working on the FOX splicer. The assistant chief engineer there is working on it.

Why is WREX not showing Wheel and Jeopardy! in HD? Because the equipment to do so is very expensive, and I'm guessing, like most small markets, they don't have the bucks to buy it yet (I heard that 40 or less than 40 markets have players that integrate with the rest of the equipment to be able to do this. And as you might imagine, it's the 40 largest markets).

Why are the local broadcasts ending in HD? Simple. When they throw their station promos up, they have to be in SD, and their Master Control Operator is handling two stations at once. In large markets, NBC controls the Master Control from a computer in New York or elsewhere. In Chicago, WMAQ is actually controlled via fiber from NYC, and they have expensive automated equipment to do it at multiple stations simultaneously.

Believe me, they want to do HD, but given limited resources, it isn't going to be perfect. If you are a long-time lurker, you then know that WIFR was off for almost a week in August, IIRC...WTVO was off for a few days when a tube blew in their tranny. It happens. Call the FCC all you want, but it won't do you any good. Unless they are intentionally trying to circumvent the law, which they are not, direct your call towards the stations themselves. That will get your questions more accurately or completely, and if you call WREX and ask them when they will getWheel and Jeopardy! in HD, the more calls they get, the harder they'll push the owners to get that equipment.

I see you're in S. Beloit so I am assuming you are about 1 mile or so from my place. I can't get fox either. I can get Madison 3.1 at 48 miles away but I can't get Fox from Rockford at 13.9 miles. Something is goofy here?

WIFR-DT 23.1 CBS ROCKFORD 212° 13.3 41 get 95% sig
WTVO-DT 17.1 ABC ROCKFORD 211° 13.9 16 get 95% sig
WQRF-DT 39.1 FOX ROCKFORD 211° 13.9 42 get 75% sig but no pic
WREX-DT 13.1 NBC ROCKFORD 224° 15.3 54 get 95%
WMSN-DT 47.1 FOX MADISON WI 330° 48.2 11 nope
WISC-DT 3.1 CBS MADISON WI 330° 48.2 50 50% or so looks fine
WKOW-DT 27.1 ABC MADISON WI 330° 48.2 26 nope

Well I ordered a silver sensor to see if that might help with some of the signal. I even took the antenna and put it up by the ceiling and on the front porch but still no fox. Guess I will wait and see if they boost the signal.

Wow, I dragged out the 8-bay UHF yesterday and set it up to pull in 23.1 to watch the Bears game, and lo and behold... 39.1 is in beautiful HD glory!!

I see from some of the above posts that I am a little bit late to this party... When did 39.1 add the HD content??

What's with the different games between the analog and digital channel on WQRF?? The started off showing the Packers in HD and then I leave the room and come back in and it's the Redskins?

What's with the different games between the analog and digital channel on WQRF?? The started off showing the Packers in HD and then I leave the room and come back in and it's the Redskins?
All the FOX affiliates in Illinois either lost it to that game...or like Fox Chicago, are showing neither. WQRF must have been on that feed but they are now back on the correct one. BTW, flip between analog and digital. Notice how much more colorful the digital signal is? Wow...

BTW, flip between analog and digital. Notice how much more colorful the digital signal is? Wow...

Yeah I noticed that. Pretty insane amount of difference.

Hey, to everyone
Just recieved an e-mail from Marshall Porter, VP at WQRF-Fox 39.He say's 39.1 which has been broadcasting an SD signal for some time now will have a low power HD signal early Oct.-06. With full power sometime in 4th quarter. I live within 5 miles and am watching the Dallas/Phily game right now in 720P with full 5.1....YES...FINALLY!!! With an 82% signal. Tune to 39.1(42-3, for older OTA recievers) and try it....!!!

Wow, I dragged out the 8-bay UHF yesterday and set it up to pull in 23.1 to watch the Bears game, and lo and behold... 39.1 is in beautiful HD glory!!

I see from some of the above posts that I am a little bit late to this party... When did 39.1 add the HD content??
8-bay, huh. Probably picking up the satellite signals from space. :eek:

It was given to me by a colleague of Jeff Whitford.

I was planning to put up a tower to pull Madison's Fox HD feed...

I put off that plan because I scored decent tickets to 5 out of the 8 Bears home games. HD is great, but not as good as being there!!

Anyway, now that 39.1 has HD content, I am glad that I didn't go nuts and erect a tower!!
This could mean that I have the budget for the upcoming Toshiba HD-XA2 and/or the Panasonic Blu-Ray player...

It was given to me by a colleague of Jeff Whitford.

I was planning to put up a tower to pull Madison's Fox HD feed...

I put off that plan because I scored decent tickets to 5 out of the 8 Bears home games. HD is great, but not as good as being there!!

Anyway, now that 39.1 has HD content, I am glad that I didn't go nuts and erect a tower!!
This could mean that I have the budget for the upcoming Toshiba HD-XA2 and/or the Panasonic Blu-Ray player...I'd just wait until they record also, and until they handle both formats or one wins out.

Ive got the Hd-a1, and I would definately recomend it. The picture is amazing, and I can only imagine that the HD-XA2 will be even better because it will support 1080p !!

This time of year is big for Sun outages. The feed was bad and Fox switched us on their end. These kind of things happen when airing live games from network.

I am glad to see more positive than negative now for Fox HD. Thanks for your patients.

OK, to answer your questions...

WREX had major equipment failure. Unfortunately, in small TV markets, you'll learn fast that stations not only go off the air, but digitals can go off for a while.
Expensive backups like San Fran and other large markets have aren't available
here. Sad, but true. They do their best and got back on the air as quick as they could, I more than bet.

720p...read above. 4:3 is coming. They are still working on the FOX splicer. The assistant chief engineer there is working on it.

Why is WREX not showing Wheel and Jeopardy! in HD? Because the equipment to do so is very expensive, and I'm guessing, like most small markets, they don't have the bucks to buy it yet (I heard that 40 or less than 40 markets have players that integrate with the rest of the equipment to be able to do this. And as you might imagine, it's the 40 largest markets).

Why are the local broadcasts ending in HD? Simple. When they throw their station promos up, they have to be in SD, and their Master Control Operator is handling two stations at once. In large markets, NBC controls the Master Control from a computer in New York or elsewhere. In Chicago, WMAQ is actually controlled via fiber from NYC, and they have expensive automated equipment to do it at multiple stations simultaneously.

Believe me, they want to do HD, but given limited resources, it isn't going to be perfect. If you are a long-time lurker, you then know that WIFR was off for almost a week in August, IIRC...WTVO was off for a few days when a tube blew in their tranny. It happens. Call the FCC all you want, but it won't do you any good. Unless they are intentionally trying to circumvent the law, which they are not, direct your call towards the stations themselves. That will get your questions more accurately or completely, and if you call WREX and ask them when they will getWheel and Jeopardy! in HD, the more calls they get, the harder they'll push the owners to get that equipment.


Its nice to see someone who understands how things work. You are correct in the cost part of HD. Currently our stations only retransmit HD signals from the networks. Most stations in this size market do not broadcast anything local HD. A majority of the talk shows and game shows you see are recorded on tape and played back at time of air. As far as I know, no station in our local market has HD cameras, HD recording decks, and HD players.
On a side note, I will gladly accept your personal check to purchase all this equipment and all the other things I really really need.

This time of year is big for Sun outages. The feed was bad and Fox switched us on their end. These kind of things happen when airing live games from network.

I am glad to see more positive than negative now for Fox HD. Thanks for your patients.
Patients??? Are you a doctor now?? :eek:

Patients??? Are you a doctor now?? :eek:


No, but he plays one on TV :p

I'd just wait until they record also, and until they handle both formats or one wins out.
I don't really care about recording anyway...
A) I usually buy media
B) HD-DVD and BD have DRM built into the spec, so we should be able to rip them into Vista.
C) For home video, I have a 720P JVC HD camcorder, and I dump it straight to the hard drive... I would guess that a PC burner drive will be a lot cheaper than a component burner, and it will be faster to reach market.

As for the format war, I am not as jumpy over this as a lot of people in the software forums here... I have been in the biz for 15 years and an enthusiast since the mid-80s. I lived through LP vs. cassette, CD vs. LP, Mini-Disc vs, DCC, DVI disc vs. LaserDisc, "open" DVD vs. DiVx DVD, and on, and on...

I don't have a problem buying into the new formats, just not the Gen1 players.
When a really good combo unit comes out in a few years, I will buy that and pass these along to a relative or something.

Re-buying a player never bothers me, not as much as re-buying my entire collection when the greedy studios release "special edition" DVDs, and then offer the same title again in 6 mos. with some other "must-have" bonus content or SuperBit or something. I am not naive enough to believe that the media I buy in HD-DVD or BD will be the last format I will own...

Ive got the Hd-a1, and I would definately recomend it. The picture is amazing, and I can only imagine that the HD-XA2 will be even better because it will support 1080p !!
My set is 1080P (Sony Grand Wega SXRD), but the HDMI only accepts up to 1080i.
I am waiting for the Gen2 because it appears to have a better processor and operate more quickly.

The Gen1 players are a little too slow for my taste.

No, but he plays one on TV :p
That would explain things.

My set is 1080P (Sony Grand Wega SXRD), but the HDMI only accepts up to 1080i.

Which model do you have? I know the A2000 and XBR2 accept 1080p through the HDMI. Not sure about the XBR1 though.

Does anyone know if/when CW will go HD in Rockford?

Does anyone know if/when CW will go HD in Rockford?

WREX-DT, as well as any other station, doesn't have the available bandwidth to broadcast 2 HD signals at the same time. The 19mbs bandwidth allows for one HD and 1 (quality) SD channel. So technically no station would be able to broadcast a second service in HD.

Oh well, it looks like WBUW from Madison has their HD feed back up for now. For some reason I thought you could carry either 4 SD channels or 2 HD channels.

Oh well, it looks like WBUW from Madison has their HD feed back up for now. For some reason I thought you could carry either 4 SD channels or 2 HD channels.WElllllll technically you can have 2 HD at 8.8mbps or 6 SD at 3 mbps. But why?? HD at 9 mbps is practically good SD video. Chicago has 1 DTV that has 6 subchannels.

Which model do you have? I know the A2000 and XBR2 accept 1080p through the HDMI. Not sure about the XBR1 though.
I have the 60" XBR1, and according to the gurus elsewhere on this site, itr will not accept a true 1080P.

I talked to the sales manager for Sony at CEDIA to see if a board level fix might be available for a nominal upgrade charge (plus installation by a tech).

They were unsure, but optimistic that this might be possible!!
If it can happen, I doubt that it would be a recall or under warranty in any way, but I would be happy if an upgrade were available to tweaky owners of the Gen1 60".

Its nice to see someone who understands how things work. You are correct in the cost part of HD. Currently our stations only retransmit HD signals from the networks. Most stations in this size market do not broadcast anything local HD. A majority of the talk shows and game shows you see are recorded on tape and played back at time of air. As far as I know, no station in our local market has HD cameras, HD recording decks, and HD players.
On a side note, I will gladly accept your personal check to purchase all this equipment and all the other things I really really need.

Maybe I wasn't clear about the Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune thing. Both of these game shows are national shows coming from a national network feed, correct? Both of these game shows are now produced in HD (in case you did not know). So, wouldn't the national network feed be shown in HD. In which case, you would just retransmit the national network HD feed, just like you do for the primetime HD programs?

So, you already have the equipment to this, correct? It doesn't cost any more $$ to do it at any specific time of the day, does it?

That is what I meant by "if the program in in HD, show it in HD."

Please explain why Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune are not being shown in HD on WREX-DT. Thanks!

Maybe I wasn't clear about the Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune thing. Both of these game shows are national shows coming from a national network feed, correct? Both of these game shows are now produced in HD (in case you did not know). So, wouldn't the national network feed be shown in HD. In which case, you would just retransmit the national network HD feed, just like you do for the primetime HD programs?

So, you already have the equipment to this, correct? It doesn't cost any more $$ to do it at any specific time of the day, does it?

That is what I meant by "if the program in in HD, show it in HD."

Please explain why Jeopardy! and Wheel of Fortune are not being shown in HD on WREX-DT. Thanks!

TV Networks distribute their SD and HD programs on two different satellite feeds and affiliates are equipped with two different receivers and pass through the feeds on their SD and HD channels simultaneously while being fed from the network.

Similarly, syndicated programs like Wheel and Jeopardy are sent in both SD and HD to stations carrying, but if not "passed through" in real time the shows need to be delayed for broadcast.

SD recording is universal among TV stations, but few have yet to invest in devices to store and forward HD programming.

So if the program is in HD does not necessarily mean the station has the ability to record it in HD and play it back in HD translated in time.

WElllllll technically you can have 2 HD at 8.8mbps or 6 SD at 3 mbps. But why?? HD at 9 mbps is practically good SD video. Chicago has 1 DTV that has 6 subchannels.WElllllll technically, if you're referring to Pax, it would be 5 subchannels, along with the main one. And the 5th subchannel currently isn't carrying anything. ;) :D Although, I guess they are all equivelent to subchannels, since the main one probably doesn't take up any more bandwith that any of the others.

There is a PBS channel in Milwaukee that has 6 subs (and 7 total), though. Yikes. :eek:

TV Networks distribute their SD and HD programs on two different satellite feeds and affiliates are equipped with two different receivers and pass through the feeds on their SD and HD channels simultaneously while being fed from the network.

Similarly, syndicated programs like Wheel and Jeopardy are sent in both SD and HD to stations carrying, but if not "passed through" in real time the shows need to be delayed for broadcast.

SD recording is universal among TV stations, but few have yet to invest in devices to store and forward HD programming.

So if the program is in HD does not necessarily mean the station has the ability to record it in HD and play it back in HD translated in time.

Thanks for the explanation. One more question; about syndication. So, what about the newly produced showings of Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune, those are syndicated too? I always thought syndication just had to do with old episodes.

Are you saying that WREX-DT doesn't show the new episodes of Jeopardy and Wheel at the time of the national NBC broadcast feed? Or maybe there isn't a national NBC broadcast of these shows (even the new ones). I guess I really don't understand what syndication is.

One other thing... consumers can now record HD in their homes (affordably). I have a Series 3 TiVo and record everything (including HD) for time-shifted viewing. Why shouldn't I expect a local broadcaster to have the necessary equipment?

Thanks,
Jazzjukebox

Ok. So, I did a wikipedia search on syndication. So, these two programs show new episodes as "first-run syndication?" And, if the show is on, say TV Land, cable network, it's "off-network syndication?"

Either way, WREX-DT doesn't have the equipment to show it HD. :-(

From what I've heard Jeopardy in HD is like a whole new Jeopardy. Maybe someday.

-Jazzjukebox

WElllllll technically, if you're referring to Pax, it would be 5 subchannels, along with the main one. And the 5th subchannel currently isn't carrying anything. ;) :D Although, I guess they are all equivelent to subchannels, since the main one probably doesn't take up any more bandwith that any of the others.

There is a PBS channel in Milwaukee that has 6 subs (and 7 total), though. Yikes. :eek:
Wow thats like under 2.5 mbps. Yikes is right. Yeah gotta love Pax.

WElllllll technically you can have 2 HD at 8.8mbps or 6 SD at 3 mbps. But why?? HD at 9 mbps is practically good SD video. Chicago has 1 DTV that has 6 subchannels.

Yes technicly you can sqeeeeeeeze 2 in there, but it depends on the type on content being aired. Anything with fast moving detailed video (ie a football game) would need the extra bandwidth. Stationary shots (ie photographs/ still graphics and the like without lots of panning and zooming) can accomodate the compression nessesary to get 2 HD signals into the 19mbps bandwidth at 8.8 each without seeing any pixilization, artifacting or worse (dropped packets)

Yes technicly you can sqeeeeeeeze 2 in there, but it depends on the type on content being aired. Anything with fast moving detailed video (ie a football game) would need the extra bandwidth. Stationary shots (ie photographs/ still graphics and the like without lots of panning and zooming) can accomodate the compression nessesary to get 2 HD signals into the 19mbps bandwidth at 8.8 each without seeing any pixilization, artifacting or worse (dropped packets)
Mmmmmmmmmm.............dropped packets........... :p

Hello there! I've been lurking this site since I bought my Samsung HD set in May but decided to come out and play. I live in the southern part of Roscoe and get Charter cable out of Janesville so I get all NBC, CBS and ABC HD feeds from Madison but for some reason they don't carry the Fox network. Of course, I have been unable to get the Fox HD feed from OTA. I have an RCA ANT1250 indoor antenna that gets all the other locals fine. Does anyone here live near Roscoe and if so, what is your Fox feed like? It's so frustrating to not get Fox in HD because of MLB and NFL games. Thanks!

FOX 47 from Madison is VHF, that's why it's harder to pick up. It's true # is 11.1 but on my tuner it is 47.1 and 47.2 The Tube which is a lousy music channel that needs to die.

BigCubFan,
I have the same antenna.

I live in the Roscoe / Rockton border and do not get FOX from Rockford. I get a strong signal (75 -80%) but no pic or sound.