Set the Favorites button to them.

Actually, I did, but it isn't the same as the guide. When I had Dish, I could customize my guide (and my wife could have hers, my son have his, etc) with the channels I like...I really miss that feature. :cool:

Bottom line - we aren't planning on changing the neighborhood.

Thanks for the insight...although change isn't in the plan, one day we will all be in HD land...suppose change is inevitable :D

Also, I appreciate the feedback as to new channels, but someone at TWC has to know...it would be great to know what to look forward to...even if put on the website as to what is "planned" (the TWCSC website leaves much to be desired, especially the "in the news" section with the latest posting from January)...but we know you wouldn't hold out on us here in this forum ;)

LuvThat --
As far as the price, you need to ask the CSR's. Call the Customer Retention department directly at 1-800-600-8977 and ask for the $299 price with $100 rebate. This deal is not publicized on their site and as of some posts I have read on *************.us, some of the CSR's are slow to get the info so you may need to call more than once.

Good luck...!

LuvThat --
As far as the price, you need to ask the CSR's. Call the Customer Retention department directly at 1-800-600-8977 and ask for the $299 price with $100 rebate. This deal is not publicized on their site and as of some posts I have read on *************.us, some of the CSR's are slow to get the info so you may need to call more than once.

Good luck...!
That's odd...why is the link converted to "********"? I saw this on Satellite Guys dot com, in case anyone was wondering...

Also, I appreciate the feedback as to new channels, but someone at TWC has to know...it would be great to know what to look forward to...even if put on the website as to what is "planned" (the TWCSC website leaves much to be desired, especially the "in the news" section with the latest posting from January)...but we know you wouldn't hold out on us here in this forum ;)


That's the thing - we plan to put on every HD channel that is available as it becomes available, we just have no way to accurately predict when that will be. So to post on the web site that we plan to add HD Channel X simply gives customers the false expectation that a launch is going to happen in short order and that is simply not something that we know given the nature of negotiations.

It just really isn't like the olden days when we knew in August which new channels we were going to launch in January because we only touched the lineup once a year.


Thanks for the note about the 'in the news' going back to January. A couple of my staff are responsible for making sure its up to date, so they have obviously dropped the ball on this one. I will point this out to them. Personally I go to the guide frequently, but mainly for Phil the Cable Guy and the main product categories - so I apologize for not noticing that myself.

SHUTTERMAKER, good luck with your calibration. If you get the time, I would surely be interested in their findings and your impressions, hope it comes out great. :)

atp1313:
Thanks I'll look into it. I was wondering about the ********'s myself!

LuvThat --
As far as the price, you need to ask the CSR's. Call the Customer Retention department directly at 1-800-600-8977 and ask for the $299 price with $100 rebate. This deal is not publicized on their site and as of some posts I have read on *************.us, some of the CSR's are slow to get the info so you may need to call more than once.

Good luck...!

Tried once and was rejected so I'll have to try again later

Was I dreaming?

Last week I thought I saw a promo (on WCSC?) for a local special program about the new Ravenell bridge, which would be broadcast in HD on the DT side, and SD on the analog side. I thought it was to have been on yesterday (Saturday, 8/20) at 7:00 PM, but never saw the promo a second time and no such program aired that I could find. Anybody else hear anything abouit this?

Mike

Was I dreaming?

Last week I thought I saw a promo (on WCSC?) for a local special program about the new Ravenell bridge, which would be broadcast in HD on the DT side, and SD on the analog side. I thought it was to have been on yesterday (Saturday, 8/20) at 7:00 PM, but never saw the promo a second time and no such program aired that I could find. Anybody else hear anything abouit this?

Mike

It was WCBD.

http://bridge.mgnetwork.com/index.cfm?SiteID=cbd&PackageID=83&fuseaction=article.main&ArticleID=7421&GroupID=364

-brian

Sorry I missed it; hopefully it will be repeated at some time in the future.

I also missed WCBD's HD special- not because I didn't try, but because of their low power for OTA reception. I know this has been discussed for months, but is there any hope of getting decent HD out of WCBD in the near future? I can't believe they would promo their HD "special" when so few people can receive their transmissions.

I also missed WCBD's HD special- not because I didn't try, but because of their low power for OTA reception. I know this has been discussed for months, but is there any hope of getting decent HD out of WCBD in the near future? I can't believe they would promo their HD "special" when so few people can receive their transmissions.

It was probably meant for those fortunate Comcast customers. I believe they receive their NBC in HD thru a cable agreement.

And only now I figure out why I missed it (as he slaps forehead with palm of hand):

Here in Georgetown TWC does not carry WCBD-DT, although it DOES have WCBD analog, as well as WCSC (both SD and DT) and WCIV (both SD and DT). The NBC-HD slot is filled by WIS-DT from Columbia. Also sounds like I would not have had any luck getting it OTA from 60 miles either.

Better luck next time.

Anyone see the show?

Sorry I missed it too...but my question is if they can produce a 30 minute special which spans several weeks, why can't they (or any other local station) produce an HD newscast? There is signifigantly less editing required and everything is stationary. I would imagine it would be easier. Obviously the cameras used to shoot the various events and ceremonies are not the same ones that would be used in-studio, and therefore cheaper. But couldn't they begin working on that? Many sports events are transmitted in HD, so they would have access to that stock footage...They could use their "mobile" HD cameras to cover local sporting events (i.e. Battery games, C of C/Citadel basketball games, etc)...and the weather brodcast would be super sharp with the extra details available on the radars and associated graphics.

And speaking of the radars, I must say that the WCBD radar signal on 2-2 is much better than WCSC's. The fact that the radar cycles through three or four zoom levels is quite effective and much more "interactive" than the static lower-state view on 5-2.

Anyway, I have assumed from the first day that I started paying attention to the local HD situation that WCSC would be on the cutting edge for HD broadcasts and technology. So cudos to Channel 2 for jumping ahead in recent weeks/months. Now about that stronger signal..... ;)

It was probably meant for those fortunate Comcast customers. I believe they receive their NBC in HD thru a cable agreement.

Nope. No NBC HD on Comcast. Thanks Media General.

-brian

Just got set up with an SA 8300 from Comcast and have already run into three major disappointments.

1) The UI is *no* replacement for our beloved TiVo.

2) The lack of NBC HD is going to be hard to explain to my wife (NBC HD was one of my justifications - I guess I should have investigated further before expecting the major networks to be available in HD in 2005!) And I've read some of the NBC affiliates rationalizations in the forum - but they seem very weak when the other stations are available - why are they so damn special?

3) The basic cable channels via the 8300 look horrible, worse perhaps than what I'm getting on the TiVo with regular cable. Why can't they be sent digitally? The digital channels look fine (even though they're not HD) - but they're mostly not channels I want to watch!

What a bizarre situation to be in.

Robert.

1. A little research would have revealed this. At least you did not buy it and new versions are getting better all the time.

2. Outside the big cities very few places in the country get all four networks in HD

3. Try setting Picture Format to pass-through and use 1080i and 720p only.

robus,

I just received your email and responded. Please let me know if you do not receive it.

Hey Gary,

Yeah I was aware that it isn't a TiVo - I just didn't understand how *unlike* a TiVo it is. Just trying to find a show to record is painful!

I guess I thought things were moving faster than they have been on the HD broadcast front - it's just kind of staggering that the biggest channel (NBC) is not yet available.

I'll try the pass through option. Are you saying to disable the 480x options on the box? I went through and dutifully enabled them! D'oh!

Thanks again.

LuvThat --
As far as the price, you need to ask the CSR's. Call the Customer Retention department directly at 1-800-600-8977 and ask for the $299 price with $100 rebate. This deal is not publicized on their site and as of some posts I have read on *************.us, some of the CSR's are slow to get the info so you may need to call more than once.

Good luck...!

Thanks for the input. I got the deal today!!! Much better than $499 (after rebate) from Best Buy.

Hey Gary,
I'll try the pass through option. Are you saying to disable the 480x options on the box? I went through and dutifully enabled them! D'oh!

Thanks again.
That is correct, let the box upconvert. It has made a difference for the analog channels for a lot of people.

That is correct, let the box upconvert. It has made a difference for the analog channels for a lot of people.

Gary - thanks for the tip - it was playing everything back at 480i! A couple of runs through the screen configurator (first time seemed to just get it up to 480p) and now it's showing everything at 1080i. The HD picture is awesome and the basic cable channels are much less grainy! Digital Cable is very pleasant.

Robert.

LuvThat--
Glad to hear it...hope you enjoy it. And the really sweet feature of the HD Tivo is the ability to record OTA signals. So it is dual satellite tuners and dual ATSC tuners. So until we get HD locals via D*, you won't miss out on the fun!

NOOB ALERT
I am in Mt. P and am on comcast with basic cable and high speed internet.

I have a sp4805 and want to wow my friends this football season with hdtv.

I've tried playing basic cable over it, tuning it thru a VCR. Which is outputting a rca and I have an adapter to convert it to s-video.

Of course the results this yields are unsatisfactory. It is not sharp and black and white srambling (due to vcr I bet) is at top of image.

I want to know the cheapest way to watch hdtv or digital cable ( if that produces good results for what I want). I know I probably have to purchase a box of some kind with s-video outs (at least). I know component would work better...but I already have s-video strung to the projector. So if s-video would work well that'd be great! If not, I'll get the components.

Do I have to upgrade with comcast? I read talk about free over the air transmissions in HD. Is that what I need...a special antenna/tuner. Is there any kind of equipment I can rent from comcast that would make the transition to better quality easier?


Thank you!

CT10

I don't know what a sp4805 is but if it does HD you want a cable HD DVR with component video, especially if you want ESPN HD football.

Sorry Gary...I have an Infocus SP4805 projector.

So you are saying (and correct me if I'm wrong), that I don't need to purchase anything extra from comcast...I just need to buy a HD DVR? Any examples of which to buy?

I figured I'd need an hdtv tuner.

SO confused.

CT10

We have several options for HD service:

1. You can rent a HD converter box ($5.00/month). This will give you the over the air broadcast channels we currently carry in HD (ABC, CBS, Fox, and PBS). This box has both composite, S-Video and Component outputs

2. You can subscribe to Digital Service ($14.95) and rent a HD converter box ($5.00). That will give you the same over the air broadcast channels in HD, plus InDemandHD 1&2, ESPN HD which carry games in HD (other HD channels as well but since you mentioned football, I'll just mention these). On the digital side, you will get NFL TV, the SC Channel (which will have Citadel, Furman, Wofford, and Charleston Southern games this year), plus access to ESPN Game Plan which has over 150 out of market college football games (this is an optional sports package for $99.00). Also, access to ON DEMAND which will give you ACC and SEC game recaps, coaches shows, etc.

3. you can subscribe to Digital Service ($14.95) and DVR service ($9.95) which will give you all the above plus DVR access to have picture in picture (great for game day), recording games, and pausing/rewinding for your own instant replay. In addition, the DVR converter box also has a DVI connection.

A HDTV tuner will get you whatever network stations you are lucky enough to pick up over the air - no recording

Renting a cable HD DVR from your cable company will get you whatever HD stations they offer in your area with recording.

NOOB ALERT
I am in Mt. P and am on comcast with basic cable and high speed internet.

I have a sp4805 and want to wow my friends this football season with hdtv.

I've tried playing basic cable over it, tuning it thru a VCR. Which is outputting a rca and I have an adapter to convert it to s-video.

Of course the results this yields are unsatisfactory. It is not sharp and black and white srambling (due to vcr I bet) is at top of image.

I want to know the cheapest way to watch hdtv or digital cable ( if that produces good results for what I want). I know I probably have to purchase a box of some kind with s-video outs (at least). I know component would work better...but I already have s-video strung to the projector. So if s-video would work well that'd be great! If not, I'll get the components.

Do I have to upgrade with comcast? I read talk about free over the air transmissions in HD. Is that what I need...a special antenna/tuner. Is there any kind of equipment I can rent from comcast that would make the transition to better quality easier?


Thank you!

CT10


1. Call Comcast...ask them if the DVI output is active on their SA8000 HD DVR. If it is active that would be your best bet. The SP4805 by InFocus has a DVI input.

2. If the DVI is not active and/or they dont have the SA8000 available. Your next best bet would be a OTA STB. Combined with a OTA antenna, mast, and rotator.

If step 1 is a no-go...then its going to cost you a little bit more money to wow your friends...call Comcast first and see what they say...

CT10:
FYI:
In order to view an HDTV signal at full resolution, S-video won't cut it. S-video only does 480i. You will need either component video, DVI, DVI-HDCP, HDMI, or Firewire (i-link) or whatever new connector comes up in the future. Even if you have a HD cable cox or HD OTA tuner, connecting it with S-video won't yield a true HD picture.

What the heck is going on over at comcast lately? Starting with the first 3 NFL preseason games, every time I went to watch the HD channel, it was just black. Other national HD channels, like discovery, would work, but it semed that all the locals were black.

So, I called 554-4100 and followed the numeric links, which ends up sending a "signal" to your cable box, and instructing you to wait 20 minutes. The first time, i just didn't call back. The second time, I called back and waited on hold for like 35 minutes, only to be told, by a very nice woman, that they were aware of the problem and it was just the local HD channels. (the SD channels worked, too) I suggested that they put an outgoing message to all callers when they have a known problem, especially at night when there's nobody really manning the phones. This would at least prevent the extra aggravation of waiting on the phone while staring at the problem channels...

Needless to say, this happened again last night, but this time NBC was out on SD (3) and now I am watching LOST on channel 180 and it's NOT in HD. What's UP!!


PS - i have a SA8300HD dvr, but I don't think this is a box problem. I was told to watch the braves game on ESPN two nights ago, and call in to Charles if I had any problems, but I didn't.

Channels that are completely black typically indicate an issue with the feed. I know that ABC is going through a nation wide HD upgrade so there is currently no HD feeds and many of the preseason games are on ABC. How long ago was this? I do know that 1-2 weeks ago there was an issue with all the local HD feeds we were receiving, but that was resolved within a day or so and have not heard any further issues recently. If anyone is still experiencing this please let me know. Unfortunately I do not have HDTV at home so it is difficult for me to check nightly.

As far as NBC being out last night, I have not heard anything on that as of yet but I will try and find out the details, possibly all the weather but I will let you know what I find out.

If Lost was not shown in HD on channel 180 (ABC), that goes back to the national upgrade where no HD signals are being sent out. For the most part, if the picture is there but it is not in HD format, it is usually either an issue with the national feed or the local affiliate.

NOOB UPDATE!

Ok, I called comcast and like someone suggested they will let me rent an HDbox for $5/month after I purchase HD service at $5/month. $10 is not too shabby!

This rate was given b/c I have basic cable already. I figure if it works then I can watch sports on NBC, FOX, ESPN, CBS, and ABC all in HD.

Also will I be able to watch standard def thru the HD box (maybe via RCA composites)? My normal tv is not HDTV compliant, so I don't want to get rid of my normal cable. I want to have my normal tv hooked up basicaly as is, and then bust out the HDTV as a special treat when I bring out the projector.

I ordered some component cables last night. I think I am all set. Is there anything that I am overlooking?

Thanks for all your help,
CT10

NOOB UPDATE!

Ok, I called comcast and like someone suggested they will let me rent an HDbox for $5/month after I purchase HD service at $5/month. $10 is not too shabby!

This rate was given b/c I have basic cable already. I figure if it works then I can watch sports on NBC, FOX, ESPN, CBS, and ABC all in HD.

I ordered some component cables last night. I think I am all set. Is there anything that I am overlooking?

Thanks,
CT10

Comcast does not have ALL the major networks in HD. Not sure which ones they DO have. Check their website.

Check to see if ESPN HD is in that basic package or a premium package. Sounds like you are not getting recording capability also.

You are right shutter...

http://www.comcast.com/Support/ChannelGuide.ashx?&LocResult

It appears that we only have

ESPN, PBS, CBS, ABC, DISCOVERY, TNT

so no FOX or NBC?

well, gary, I really don't need to have dvr capabilities. If someone here has gotten one from comcast, would you recommend it? How much extra is that?

It looks like ESPN HD is included. The sports channels that are at a premium are the NFL on demand stuff.

CT10

Just to clarify, it is not $5.00 for service and $5.00 for HD converter rental, it is only $5.00 for the converter rental. You will receive all your current analog channels now plus ABC, CBS, Fox, and PBS in HD format.

ESPN, Disccovery, TNT, InHD 1&2, Braves in HD and any premium channel (HBO, Starz, etc) are in our Digital Service. In order to receive those channels in HD, you would need to subscribe to Digital Service ($14.95) and rent the HD converter ($5.00).

If you need more details, just send me an email and I'll go over everything with you.

I'm new so bear with me.

First of all, it's nice to have a place to go to learn about local HD issues. I'm in MP and have Dish 942 and 811. I have two SS antennas in the attic and can pick up all stations (yes, Fox24 and worthless WMMP too). My problem is that I just got the 942 and can't add 24 and 35 to the guide.

24 gets about 70% and locks fine yet the 942 doesn't accept it. What's even more strange is that 36 comes in at a stronger 75% and won't even lock. It's weird and seems to affect more than just me according to posts at DBSTalk.
While very friendly, Dish technical support has been virtually useless to solve this as they always seem to insist that it is everything but the receiver. I believe it is a software issue.

811 has no problem at all with any of the channels. Both receivers are hooked to the same antenna and amplifier in the attic. Anybody else have this problem?

Also, are we still looking at Summer '06 for 24, 36, and 2 to move to the new transmitter tower?

Does anyone out there, besides me, receive WTAT-DT 24.1 OTA with a DirecTV H-10 HD box?
I have the H-10, a Sony Sat HD200 and a built -in ATSC tuner in my Mits TV. I was watching 24.1 on the TV tuner last night and noticed the Dolby Digital was very erratic with a lot of drop-outs. I tried the H-10 later on and had no picture or audio on 24.1 but I had normal pictures and audio on the other channels. 24.1 signal strength showed OK though. Another strange thing is that when I first tune to 24.1, while using the signal strength meter, the screen gets a few white lines across the screen for a second or two. The Sony and Mits TV work OK with 24.1, with the exception of the audio drop-outs.
Has anyone else heard of such a thing? I have tried rebooting the box and even tried resetting everything to factory defaults, but it didn't help. I'm wondering if WTAT is messing around with their PSIP data or something?

LuvThatHDTV,
Something must be going on over at WTAT. Last week, OTA receiver was mapping to 40-4, tried to reel it in last nite, and zippo, nothing. Probably my box, but I have never had any problems before last nite tuning them in.

I can also get FOX on regular antenna through my TV, but my H10 does not pick it up. I have since left the OTA connected straight to the TV as I do not get NBC through H10 either.

Even on my regular OTA connected to my TV, my FOX is picked up as 40-3, not 24-1. Does anyone else get that?

Should I do a re-autoprogram?

loadams2: Thanks for the input

reisb: Also thanks for the input. I don't have that problem but I would try a re-autoprogram only if it bothers you. I've learned the hard way that sometimes it's best to leave things as they are. With my TV I can only add channels if they are all available at once. And it rare to get all the channels at the same time so I never re-autoprogram it.

Good Morning,

We are happy to announce an agreement with Universal HD that allows us to air the US Open Tennis Tournament in HD on our HD Special Events Channel 814.

Below please find a schedule of specific viewing times in which the Tournament will be on Channel 814. When the tournament is not on the air, you will see a Black Screen. There will be limited exposure to regular Universal HD programming as we activate the signal each day. Most specifically, we will keep the window open an extra hour each night in hopes of making sure we don't cut off any matches still in progress each night.

Non-HD coverage of the US Open Tennis Tournament is available on USA Network. If the HD feed gets cut off, you can view the remainder of the match on this Basic Cable channel.

Before you ask:
Our Corporate Office is still in negotiations for full time carriage of the network and we do not have an estimated timeframe in which the channel MAY launch full time, nor have we considered yet whether it will be a free channel or part of the HD Tier.


Date Day Start (et) End Time (et) Session
8/29/2005 Monday 7:00 PM 11:00 PM 2 - Live

8/30/2005 Tuesday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 2 - Repeat From Monday night
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 4 - Live

8/31/2005 Wed 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 4 - Repeat From Tuesday night
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 6 - Live

9/1/2005 Thursday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 6 - Repeat From Wed night
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 8 - Live

9/2/2005 Friday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 8 - Repeat From Thursday night
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 10 - Live

9/3/2005 Saturday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 10 - Repeat From Friday night
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 11 - Live

9/4/2005 Sunday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 11 - Repeat From Saturday night
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 12 - Live

9/5/2005 Monday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 12 - Repeat From Sunday night
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 13 - Live

9/6/2005 Tuesday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 13 - Repeat From Monday night
11:00 AM 6:00 PM 14 - Live
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 15 - Live

9/7/2005 Wed 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 15 - Repeat From Tuesday night
11:00 AM 6:00 PM 16 - Live
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 17 - Live

9/8/2005 Thursday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 17 - Repeat From Wed night
11:00 AM 5:00 PM 18 - Live
7:00 PM 11:00 PM 19 - Live

9/9/2005 Friday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 19 - Repeat From Thursday night

9/10/2005 Saturday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 17 - Repeat From Wed night

9/11/2005 Sunday 6:00 AM 10:00 AM 19 - Repeat From Thursday night
1:00 PM 2:30 PM 20 - Live

You know what - its just impossible to copy an Excel spreadsheet to this forum.....

Hope the schedule makes sense to everyone.

Last night my wife and I sat down to enjoy Rome in HD (recording had already started about 40 minutes earlier).

First issue: no easy way to start watching the program from the beginning. Had to rewind the thing back to the beginning - getting a reverse preview of the show in the process (cue whistling while trying to look anywhere but the screen)!

Second issue: when the recording ended we got kicked out of the playback and the box seemed to forget that we had been watching the show and forced us to FF from the beginning to where we'd left off.

I understand that these bugs have been fixed (from the SA 8300 HD Tips and Tricks thread) by SA but I want to know when this fix will be rolled out to Comcast customers? It was another sorry reminder of how far behind TiVo this box is.

Robert.

Last night my wife and I sat down to enjoy Rome in HD (recording had already started about 40 minutes earlier).

First issue: no easy way to start watching the program from the beginning. Had to rewind the thing back to the beginning - getting a reverse preview of the show in the process (cue whistling while trying to look anywhere but the screen)!

Second issue: when the recording ended we got kicked out of the playback and the box seemed to forget that we had been watching the show and forced us to FF from the beginning to where we'd left off.

I understand that these bugs have been fixed (from the SA 8300 HD Tips and Tricks thread) by SA but I want to know when this fix will be rolled out to Comcast customers? It was another sorry reminder of how far behind TiVo this box is.

Robert.

robus--
This is one of the reasons, if not THE PRIMARY reason, my wife and I finally decided to switch back to D*. We had the Tivo a couple of years ago before the local channels were available, and then had service for variable amounts of time with E* and Voom, then Comcast. Switching back to DirecTV has been a blessing so far...especially when you throw in a brand new HDTivo for $199 (after rebate). So far, the only channel I miss from Comcast's HD lineup is the Braves in HD when they play in Atlanta.

But to be fair, as Diana has posted before, the goal of the cable DVR's is simply to be a jazzed up VCR. Tivo, by contrast, is solely designed to make recording easy and intelligent. They own the patents for so many of the technologies that we all want and yearn for in a DVR. So try not to scream too loud... :rolleyes:

Either way, you can be patient as Comcast will be rolling out sometime next year (of course no date has been announced that I have seen) a Tivo-enabled DVR for a small fee above what is already being paid. Or you can make the switch to D* and immediately enjoy Tivo or HDTivo and chalk up the SA8300 as a great experiment that never really panned out for full intelligent use.

I'm new so bear with me.

First of all, it's nice to have a place to go to learn about local HD issues. I'm in MP and have Dish 942 and 811. I have two SS antennas in the attic and can pick up all stations (yes, Fox24 and worthless WMMP too). My problem is that I just got the 942 and can't add 24 and 35 to the guide.

24 gets about 70% and locks fine yet the 942 doesn't accept it. What's even more strange is that 36 comes in at a stronger 75% and won't even lock. It's weird and seems to affect more than just me according to posts at DBSTalk.
While very friendly, Dish technical support has been virtually useless to solve this as they always seem to insist that it is everything but the receiver. I believe it is a software issue.

811 has no problem at all with any of the channels. Both receivers are hooked to the same antenna and amplifier in the attic. Anybody else have this problem?

Also, are we still looking at Summer '06 for 24, 36, and 2 to move to the new transmitter tower?

Am I the only one with a 942 that has this problem? Can anybody help or at least steer me somewhere?

Am I the only one with a 942 that has this problem? Can anybody help or at least steer me somewhere?

I think there are less people on this thread that use DISH than of cable or Directv. I do know however that Fox 24.1 right now has issues. It is showing up on my TV's tuner on 40.3 with a picture. On my Sony Sat-hd200 is also works, but I'm not sure what channel it is on. On my DirecTv H10 receiver I get a strong signal when I use the signal strength meter but the receiver still says it has no signal when tuning to the station so I get no picture. My new HD Tivo I got today won't pick up any signal strength on 24 ( I think it will when WTAT fixes it's signal since I do get some signal on 36.1 and it's usually worse than fox)
I have tried for the second time to email Fox and get an email address for their engineering dept. but will probably not receive and answer again.
The main problem I have with UPN is just it's terrible picture quality and low signal strength, but it's signal seems "normal" and I can always view it unless the weather doesn't cooperate

Speaking of not getting Fox via OTA, my wife was pissed tonight when she saw that the DirecTV-HDTivo was recording "Prison Break" but when we went to play it back, there was a message that Tivo had dumped the recording simply becasue there was not enough signal strength. I know for a fact that as recently as a few days ago, my antenna was getting a great signal and Tivo was happy. Now, bupkis...

Hopefully they can figure this out in time for Football and the World Series.

Clemsontiger10,
You will not ever see true Hi Def from the Infocus SP4805. It does not display full Hi Def resolution. The SP 4805 has a native resolution in 16:9 aspect ratio of 480 pixels vertically, and 848 pixels horizontally -less than 450k pixels total (800x600 in 4:3 aspect). 1080i and 720p images are down rezzed internally by the projector. The Infocus 7200, 7205, and 7210 have native 1,280 by 720 pixel DLP chips - 921k pixels total, and therefore can display hi def resolutions. That said, the 4805 supports the full resolution of DVD and SDTV, and considering the fact that it is one third to one fourth of the price of the 7200 series projectors, it's an exceptional value. Do use the Y Pb Pr inputs if at all possible. You are probably better served by using the composite (single yellow) input instead of the S Video as the comb filter in your 1K projector is much better than the one in an in expensive vcr or some type of adapter. (Besides which analog cable originates as a composite video signal anyway!) Good contrast levels are a function of screen size and type, ambient light control, and proper set up.
Regards,
HighTechRedNeck
[U]NOOB ALERT[/U
I am in Mt. P and am on comcast with basic cable and high speed internet.

I have a sp4805 and want to wow my friends this football season with hdtv.

I've tried playing basic cable over it, tuning it thru a VCR. Which is outputting a rca and I have an adapter to convert it to s-video.

Of course the results this yields are unsatisfactory. It is not sharp and black and white srambling (due to vcr I bet) is at top of image.

I want to know the cheapest way to watch hdtv or digital cable ( if that produces good results for what I want). I know I probably have to purchase a box of some kind with s-video outs (at least). I know component would work better...but I already have s-video strung to the projector. So if s-video would work well that'd be great! If not, I'll get the components.

Do I have to upgrade with comcast? I read talk about free over the air transmissions in HD. Is that what I need...a special antenna/tuner. Is there any kind of equipment I can rent from comcast that would make the transition to better quality easier?


Thank you!

CT10

Speaking of not getting Fox via OTA, my wife was pissed tonight when she saw that the DirecTV-HDTivo was recording "Prison Break" but when we went to play it back, there was a message that Tivo had dumped the recording simply becasue there was not enough signal strength. I know for a fact that as recently as a few days ago, my antenna was getting a great signal and Tivo was happy. Now, bupkis...

Hopefully they can figure this out in time for Football and the World Series.

Of course they blew off my email request for an email address from someone in engineering... Luckily my TV tuner works with Fox so I can still use my D-VHS to record FOX. But it kinda of sucks when I get a brand new Tivo and can't fully use it!! WTAT :mad:

Knology has 12 HD channels now. Including the "Big 4" locals.


901 WCIV-DT 4 (ABC)
902 WCSC-DT 5 (CBS)
903 WCBD-DT 2 (NBC)
904 WITV-DT 7 (PBS)
905 WTAT-DT 24 (FOX)
911 ESPN HD
913 Discovery HD Theater
917 Universal HD
918 HDNet
919 HDNet Movies
921 HBO HD
926 Starz HDTV

Well that's kinda good news, bad news for us - but glad to see someone is making headway on this front.

Would anyone like to share with me the break out of Free v Tier v Premum Subscription?

Are we about to get WIS-DT (NBCHD) on TWC in Summerville? I was looking at Titan TV and they are now listing it on the TWC HD link as channel 805. Is there something you can tell us? Am I getting my hopes up for nothing? Interestingly, they do not list 815 (ABCHD).

Are we about to get WIS-DT (NBCHD) on TWC in Summerville? I was looking at Titan TV and they are now listing it on the TWC HD link as channel 805. Is there something you can tell us? Am I getting my hopes up for nothing? Interestingly, they do not list 815 (ABCHD).

I think it is Titan TV putting up the wrong listing...if you notice, it has WOLO on 815 listed there, as well as another area's FOX station. I would love to get NBC and FOX soon, but I think that is a false alarm.

I hope TWC notices our interest, as well as the fact Knology has there <stuff> together when it comes to locals...

But right now I suppose there are bigger things in the world to worry about, so I won't complain.

I am thinking about adding the digital phone to my cable service, or possibly switching it all to Knology. Does anyone out there have digital phone? I want to know how it compares in quality to a standard Bell South line (which is pretty expensive for the basics). Also, when power goes out, I still have a phone line with what I have now (usually); will I lose the line every time when power goes out with digital phone service?

Diana, is there a money back guarantee if I don't like the quality? Will TWC get it back to the way it was (with Bell South) if I don't like the service, or is the rehook fee out of my pocket with Bell South? Is there a discounted rate to add the service? (like for the first 3 months, etc) I am looking for a reason (in my mind) to make it an advantage to switch. I saw the package price for all three, which simply adds the $39.95 for the phone service to my existing cable/internet bill. Oh, it is not clear on your website, does the bundled service that includes the internet (with other items) have the 8MB service? I have Earthlink via TWC, but can't tell which service I can get...the standard 3MB or the faster connection (8MB).

Thanks,
...Rob

Good Morning,

Darthtom - we don't have a relationship with Titan TV, so I don't know where they get their info. Obviously it's incorrect.

FCC Regulates Broadcast Carriage in DMAs. WIS doesn't have Significantly Viewed status in Summerville, so it is agains the law for us to provide their HD service in the Summerville system. Significantly Viewed status is a filing only WIS can initiate.

I am thinking about adding the digital phone to my cable service, or possibly switching it all to Knology. Does anyone out there have digital phone? I want to know how it compares in quality to a standard Bell South line (which is pretty expensive for the basics). Also, when power goes out, I still have a phone line with what I have now (usually); will I lose the line every time when power goes out with digital phone service?

Diana, is there a money back guarantee if I don't like the quality? Will TWC get it back to the way it was (with Bell South) if I don't like the service, or is the rehook fee out of my pocket with Bell South? Is there a discounted rate to add the service? (like for the first 3 months, etc) I am looking for a reason (in my mind) to make it an advantage to switch. I saw the package price for all three, which simply adds the $39.95 for the phone service to my existing cable/internet bill. Oh, it is not clear on your website, does the bundled service that includes the internet (with other items) have the 8MB service? I have Earthlink via TWC, but can't tell which service I can get...the standard 3MB or the faster connection (8MB).
Thanks,
...Rob

I have had Digital Phone since last June and the quality is absolutely comparable to Bell South - especially for the price. There is a new modem out there with 2 hours battery backup, but honestly this isn't my area of expertise so I don't know the availablility in Summerville - certainly you can request it. It really is a comparable risk to having a cordless phone, which will be out of service with Bell South if your power goes out. I even have my Alarm System hooked to Digital Phone.

We do have Money Back guarantee for all our products.

We would not take responsibility for any rehookup charges to Bell South - but they are going to send you a 'buy back' offer with Free Installation within the first month of your switching services, so that's really a mute point.

There is no additional promotional offer to add the service - Full rate ala carte is $49.95 - with one other product it is $44.95 and then with two other products it is $39.95 a month

The Speed of Light and VIP package price points both include the Standard Internet connection.

Advantages - all local and long distance at $39.95 per month? Don't know how you match that (please read the Knology fine print on telephone carefully, their definition for 'unlimited' wouldn't match my own)

TW Digital Phone is and always has been E911 compliant. We don't have the issue faced by a VOIP provider in that regard. While we use VOIP technology to provide the service, our calls never go on the internet where quality is impacted. Calls go directly from our plant to the national telephone network via our partner MCI.

Thanks for stretching my brain muscles on Digital Phone and HSD - Happy Holiday

Advantages - all local and long distance at $39.95 per month? Don't know how you match that (please read the Knology fine print on telephone carefully, their definition for 'unlimited' wouldn't match my own)

TW Digital Phone is and always has been E911 compliant. We don't have the issue faced by a VOIP provider in that regard. While we use VOIP technology to provide the service, our calls never go on the internet where quality is impacted. Calls go directly from our plant to the national telephone network via our partner MCI.

Diana - Simple answer is $24.95 for Vonage VOIP. Of course you would still need to subscribe to someone's broadband service, so maybe the cost/savings is not a huge deal.

RFrank - I have Vonage and had some difficulty getting the transfer from AT&T (Local & Long Distance at the time). Vonage says AT&T was dragging their feet, and AT&T said the same about Vonage, so who knows. But once installed, it is sweet. $24.95 for all local and long distance calls. international calls - if this is an area of concern - is exceedingly cheap...like $0.03/minute to UK and $0.05/minute to Japan. The service is solid so long as you have a good internet connection. I have the 8MB Comcast internet service so I have zero dropout or lag in my calls. And yes, if the power goes out, then my phone goes out. But to guard against not having ANY phone service in the event of any emergency with no power, I simply subscribed to BellSouth for their extremely basic phone service and hooked that up to my fax machine. It costs like $16/month, If I recall (sorry, my wife mails the checks so I rarely pay attention), and would cost $.20/minute for any local toll call or more for long distance. Since it is only an incoming or backup 911 line, I have never seen any additional fees on top of that basic price.

Vonage is E911-compliant, but you must register your location as soon as you begin service.

Once you sign up, they send you an internet/telephone adapter (about the size of your standard hub, switch or cable modem) and you can immediately make calls. They provide a temporary phone number so you can make these calls until your existing number is ported over from BellSouth, if you want the same number.

The controls available to you online are quite impressive. You can forward you calls to any number or series of numbers that will ring in a cascading order. You can also make all of those preprogrammed numbers ring at the same time. This is handy if you are ouot and about and expecting a call, it will ring the house and the cell phone at the same time. And you can have up to I think 5 numbers ringing at once...okay that might get annoying.

You can have all your voicemails emailed to you as MP3 attachments playable on your computer or you can play them online or you can listen to them on your phone(s). Oh, and possibly the coolest featureof all is that you can take your TA (telephone adapter) with you anywhere you go and always be making and reciving local calls. They also offer something called a softphone that would allow you to make and receive calls directly through your computer. So much to look at, you should go to Vonage.com and check it out.

Right - Vantage is VOIP - travels over the internet and subject to quality issues because of that. I'm glad to hear you haven't had that issue yet Mr. Price, however it is a very common complaint on VOIP services.

Time Warner Digital Phone - VOIP technology, but never touches the public internet.

Plus - Time Warner Digital Cable and Digital Phone customers receive Caller ID on TV as a free service.

I would compare the price difference to the difference in quality and service you get between a Yugo and a Cadillac.

Last night, I had the game in HD (OTA antenna straight to TV). It started flickering/locking up towards the end of the 3rd quarter. When ABC came back for the 4th quarter, HD was gone, widescreen gone (had side bars).

Just wondering if it was local ABC tower since others across country didn't appear to have this problem.

thanks,
Brian

Brian, the exact same thing happened to me using an antenna.

John

Same thing here - someone at the station must have had it set to switch back at 11 for the local news or something.

I was getting significantly more dropouts during the game than usual. My signal was very irradic - especially during the 3rd quarter.

Thanks. I had the same. Quite a few dropouts. I am very disappointed in ABC's HD football this season. They didn't have any games in HD this weekend except 3 quarters of the FSU/Miami game, not to mention the Texas/OSU game is not even going to be in HD this weekend. Kind of strange since they are part of ESPN and ESPN has MANY games in HD.

I ALWAYS get dropouts OTA when we get a system that blows from the North or NE, go figure.

Game looked stunning, but if you get a chance , take a look at the Raiders-Patriots game Thurs. night. In an article I read a while back, Foxborough has some of the best lighting for evening games. If you really look at it, you will not see any shadows from the players, looks almost daylight.

Diana - Simple answer is $24.95 for Vonage VOIP. Of course you would still need to subscribe to someone's broadband service, so maybe the cost/savings is not a huge deal.



I second the Vonage recommendation. Of course you still need to have a broadband connection, but most people probably already do or are thinking of it. If not then the $39.99 for Digital phone is obviously better.

However, if you have a broadband (I have Comcast) then Vonage is the way to go. The 911 compliance thing is a trivial inconvenience, you have to register your address with Vonage so they can tie your number to an address. This is because you can have virtual numbers (i.e. you can have a NYC area code and you phone in Charleston, probably something some businesses would want). Once registered you are set, 911 works fine.

Vonage is especially great for people who almost would go cellular all the time. But my wife wanted to have a land line, and it is good for visitors, babysitters, etc. Since we use our cell phones for a lot of stuff, I have the 500 minutes Vonage plan which cost $16.95 after taxes for everything. This is 500 outgoing minutes, including long distance, incoming are not counted against you. As far as anyone knows you have a regular phone. I have never had a quality issue, but of course, if your cable or power is out then so is your phone.

Andy

Right - Vantage is VOIP - travels over the internet and subject to quality issues because of that. I'm glad to hear you haven't had that issue yet Mr. Price, however it is a very common complaint on VOIP services.

Yes, I have been lucky, thankfully. Although I did have a heck of a time getting everything ported from AT&T...so much trouble I may not want to go through it again. Ended up getting credits for money paid and no "actual" phone number to use during the transition. I would hope that the porting offered as part of TWC would be a lot smoother. For someone with zero patience, Vonage may not be the best plan...but once you have it, you start to forget all the crap that happened before.

Plus - Time Warner Digital Cable and Digital Phone customers receive Caller ID on TV as a free service.

This is a feature that I had back when I had E*. When they mentioned it, I kind of laughed at the installer. Then I started realizing how handy it could be. Nice to hear some other companies are offering this.


I would compare the price difference to the difference in quality and service you get between a Yugo and a Cadillac.

I think this analogy might be a bit strong. I have not looked at what TWC offers, but if I see correctly the price for TWC is $39/month vs. Vonage at $24.95 (or as mentioned in the previous posting above this one: $16.95/500 minutes). So based on price alone, there is little contest. Is there a discount if you have cable service and/or Internet service with TWC? A bundle discount like Knology? This might make it more attractive.

But anyway, so long as you have reliable broadband service, and obviously faster is better, then you cannot tell the difference between BellSouth landline and Vonage.

Plus, can you take the TWC digital phone with you wherever you go? Probably not... ;)

So to get back on track, maybe the better analogy would be 89 Octane Regular gas vs 92 Octane Premium gas. Some cars run better (supposedly) on higher octane. For some cars it is simply a waste of money to get the "good stuff". So depending on what you have, the value to expense ratio might be skewed. Obviously, I would receommend that each person weigh the full benefits and risks before switching.

As far as Vonage goes for me, the price is right...the service is right...the quality is right...so long as I have power :rolleyes:

D* just added ESPN2-HD to their lineup....YEAH!

D* just added ESPN2-HD to their lineup....YEAH!

Stupid question of the day, but what is "D*"...also, what is "E*" from the previous message?

:confused:

Has anyone heard an update on WTATs OTA signal? It would be GREAT to watch the Cowboys in HD on Sunday. Diana, has TWC thought about running a FOX game as a "special event" on one of those two underutilized channels? Maybe give us a taste of what will (hopefully) eventually come...it sure would go a long way with your customers. This is a perfect weekend for it:D Well, at least for us diehard Cowboy fans anyway;)

Stupid question of the day, but what is "D*"...also, what is "E*" from the previous message?

:confused:
Quick, name 2 sat TV companies.

Quick, name 2 sat TV companies.


OK, the D* part I kind of figured (either Dish or DirectTV)...but the E* was a bit more difficult...Echostar?

Has anyone heard an update on WTATs OTA signal? It would be GREAT to watch the Cowboys in HD on Sunday. Diana, has TWC thought about running a FOX game as a "special event" on one of those two underutilized channels? Maybe give us a taste of what will (hopefully) eventually come...it sure would go a long way with your customers. This is a perfect weekend for it:D Well, at least for us diehard Cowboy fans anyway;)


We cannot legally air HD Programming from WTAT without a contract - not even as a special event. It would be stealing.

Speaking of WTAT; does anyone happen to have any contact info for their engineering department since all my emails to WTAT go unanswered? I wouldn't really care if it wasn't for football (and my wife with American Idol), but it's pretty lame when a company has no desire to keep it's customers happy.

We cannot legally air HD Programming from WTAT without a contract - not even as a special event. It would be stealing.

Well, what I meant was to work something out with them for a special event...some kind of win-win deal.

Its not win-win for WTAT. What leverage do they have if they give up popular programs for special events. That's why we can't buy specific programming from CCS anymore.

Its not win-win for WTAT. What leverage do they have if they give up popular programs for special events. That's why we can't buy specific programming from CCS anymore.

Bummer :(

I have had it with Sinclair and WTAT. I have been emailing them every week for months. They never answer. Here is a list of the email addresses I send to. EVERYONE should email them daily and just keep going until they listen. Notice that I am also emailing FOX and TWC. I have also added the NFL in many of the emails...

comments@wtat24.com; comments@sbgi.net;twcscservice@twcable.com; support@fox.com; sales@fox.com; programming@wtat24.com; comments@fox.com; programming@fox.com; webmaster@fox.com

I have been out a better part of the morning trying to rig up something to watch the Cowboys in HD. WTAT SUCKS! I live 7 miles from their "temp" transmitter and can get nothing.

Since they won't answer emails or letters, I think I will show up and knock on the door this week in person. I want answers! These greedy B****** need to get it together and listen! Give us our FoxHD!

I have been on them a year now. Lets get more people on it. The more angry emails, letters, and phone calls they receive... the better! Let your voices be heard!

I have had it with Sinclair and WTAT. I have been emailing them every week for months. They never answer. Here is a list of the email addresses I send to. EVERYONE should email them daily and just keep going until they listen. Notice that I am also emailing FOX and TWC. I have also added the NFL in many of the emails...

comments@wtat24.com; comments@sbgi.net;twcscservice@twcable.com; support@fox.com; sales@fox.com; programming@wtat24.com; comments@fox.com; programming@fox.com; webmaster@fox.com

I have been out a better part of the morning trying to rig up something to watch the Cowboys in HD. WTAT SUCKS! I live 7 miles from their "temp" transmitter and can get nothing.

Since they won't answer emails or letters, I think I will show up and knock on the door this week in person. I want answers! These greedy B****** need to get it together and listen! Give us our FoxHD!

I have been on them a year now. Lets get more people on it. The more angry emails, letters, and phone calls they receive... the better! Let your voices be heard!


I feel your pain. When I reached my breaking point I switched my cable service to Knology. The HD looks great. They have all the locals in HD and NFL Network to boot.

Not sure if they offer service in your area but it might be worth a check.

www.knology.com

I was able to get the same Scientific Atlanta cable boxes (SA8300 and SA8000) that I had with TWC. Its nice to have a service provider choice. If TWC catches up with Knology I may switch back. At least I know that for at least this season, I have all my football needs in HD.

GO JAGS ! ! ! !

I have had it with Sinclair and WTAT. I have been emailing them every week for months. They never answer. Here is a list of the email addresses I send to. EVERYONE should email them daily and just keep going until they listen. Notice that I am also emailing FOX and TWC. I have also added the NFL in many of the emails...

comments@wtat24.com; comments@sbgi.net;twcscservice@twcable.com; support@fox.com; sales@fox.com; programming@wtat24.com; comments@fox.com; programming@fox.com; webmaster@fox.com

I have been out a better part of the morning trying to rig up something to watch the Cowboys in HD. WTAT SUCKS! I live 7 miles from their "temp" transmitter and can get nothing.

Since they won't answer emails or letters, I think I will show up and knock on the door this week in person. I want answers! These greedy B****** need to get it together and listen! Give us our FoxHD!

I have been on them a year now. Lets get more people on it. The more angry emails, letters, and phone calls they receive... the better! Let your voices be heard!

Darthtom, what kind of OTA tuner do you have? My DirecTV H10 and HD Tivo no longer work with WTAT due to something on their end. My Sony Sat HD200 and Mitsubishi TV built-in tuner still work, but the TV tuner has the Dolby Digital signal dropping out very frequently and the Sony has been moved upstairs to the bedroom. The H10 says it has no signal but the signal meter shows a normal signal (But no picture). The Tivo shows nothing, even though it picks up UPN (which is at lower power and on the same tower) I had similar problems with either ABC or NBC when they had a PSIP problems. A firmware upgrade and a PSIP change fixed the problem. But of course since WTAT never responds to emails they will probably never fix the problem. And since they get no direct $$$ from OTA customers they probably don't care. And from what I hear Sinclair is even more money hungry so I doubt it's even worth trying to contact them
KTrout, who started this thread, might have contact info, but I haven't seen anything from him in a while.
(Also the Cowboys game wasn't in HD OTA today anyway... :( )

For anyone with Dish Network

http://nfl.com/nflnetwork/story/8837251

About a week ago. For 160 package and up.

NFL Network is available to customers who subscribe to America's Top 120 programming package ($42.99 per month) or above.

..according to nfl.com anyways.

Just glad that its being made available to other outlets

Has anyone noticed that FOX finally went from channel 40-3 to 24-1? I noticed it Monday night while watching "Prison Break" and again last night when watching "Bones" and "House" in HD. Very nice!!!!

I'm assuming the people that are having issues with FOX HD are not OTA? because I do not have any problems.

thanks,
Brian

I am glad to hear that they finally got back to "their" channel, but I cannot get them still. Of course I am in Goose Creek and have had spotty reception at best. If they could only run their transmitter with more power than it takes to run a dishwasher, we all might be able to get their signal. :rolleyes:

Has anyone noticed that FOX finally went from channel 40-3 to 24-1? I noticed it Monday night while watching "Prison Break" and again last night when watching "Bones" and "House" in HD. Very nice!!!!

I'm assuming the people that are having issues with FOX HD are not OTA? because I do not have any problems.

thanks,
Brian
FOX HD OTA? HA! Never seen it :D

Has anyone noticed that FOX finally went from channel 40-3 to 24-1? I noticed it Monday night while watching "Prison Break" and again last night when watching "Bones" and "House" in HD. Very nice!!!!

I'm assuming the people that are having issues with FOX HD are not OTA? because I do not have any problems.

thanks,
Brian

So far, with the HD Tivo, it's not working. I will do a re-scan of the digital signals when my wife is done watching the tube; but for some reason I doubt it will work.

So far, with the HD Tivo, it's not working. I will do a re-scan of the digital signals when my wife is done watching the tube; but for some reason I doubt it will work.

LuvThat-
Big surprise...I just did a re-scan on my HD-Tivo and it says there are no new digital signals received. I just hope they have all of this fixed well enough to transmit the World Series and playoffs in HD. :(

I don't know about the rescan because I run my OTA straight into the TV as it picks up my HD channels then through my DTV H10. I could not pickup NBC or FOX in HD through the H10 receiver.

But my 40-3 just automatically changed to 24-1 and has stayed that way all week.

I don't know about the rescan because I run my OTA straight into the TV as it picks up my HD channels then through my DTV H10. I could not pickup NBC or FOX in HD through the H10 receiver.

But my 40-3 just automatically changed to 24-1 and has stayed that way all week.


say what?

I don't know about the rescan because I run my OTA straight into the TV as it picks up my HD channels then through my DTV H10. I could not pickup NBC or FOX in HD through the H10 receiver.

But my 40-3 just automatically changed to 24-1 and has stayed that way all week.

reisb,
I think I understand that your TV has an ATSC tuner in it and this is what you use for watching HD TV?
I have a total of 4 HD tuners and two of them can no longer pick up Fox in HD, but the other two can. My HD Tivo and D* H10 cannot pick up Fox, but my Sony Sat HD200 and Mitsubishi TV can pick up Fox. The H10 even shows signal strength, but no picture.
Previously ABC had issues with their PSIP data and the only way to get the H10 to receive the picture with audio was to use the wrong Zip Code and just have the box find the local channels on it's own. The guide was then useless, but ABC had audio. Once ABC fixed their PSIP data then the H10 worked correctly.
My guess is that Fox has made some changes to their data stream and some tuners can't decipher the data correctly. This is why the H10 shows a signal on the signal meter but says their is no signal when trying to tune to the channel. (At least this is my guess) If Fox would ever reply to emails then maybe they could/would try to fix the problem; but since they don't seem to care about their customers it will probably be a loooooonnnnng time before they fix their signal. Luckily I still have the TV tuner and D-VHS for recording Fox. And I'm real glad I didn't spend $1000 on the Tivo and then have it quit working on Fox. It's bad enough to spend $240 on the Tivo and have it partially useless

atp1313:

I also tried a rescan and also tried using a different zip code and still nothing on the HD Tivo either

I finally received a reply from WTAT's engineer. It seems that they have the low power antenna pointed at down town Charleston. That leaves the rest of us out of signal. He claims that they are moving towards the full power tower being up in the next few months. Haven't we heard that before? Anyway, they are finally listening and paying attention. Thank you to all who have helped with the emails. Someone somewhere is starting to notice. Now if we can get Sinclair and TWC to play together, a lot of us would be much happier.

Did anyone watch ER last night on WCBD-DT? I did for awhile, but the picture froze about 10 minutes into the program and stayed that way while the sound continued for at least another 10 minutes. I switched away to CSI and checked back a couple times. I presume this was not a Knology issue, but can't say for sure - I didn't check the OTA feed (didn't think of it).

I just switched from Comcast to Knology. Having WCBD and HDNet in HD pushed me over the top. They don't have the INHD channels, Braves-HD or the ETV-SC channel, but do have Universal HD, so I think I came out ahead. I was happy to tell Comcast I'm cancelling because they can't commit to a time for carrying WCBD!

They provided an SA8000, but supposedly have 8300's available. Their call center was confused about whether I could carry-in the 8000 for an exchange. I'm seeing the problem I had with Comcast's SA8000 where I get frequent audio dropouts on HD recordings; Knology supposedly did a reset, but it didn't look like what they described (it was supposed to erase everything on the box, but didn't), and I haven't had time to review any recordings since Monday.

The picture quality for HD is fine. For OTA analog stations it blows - I mean ghosts and all. It looks like they're using rabbit ears! The satellite fed analog channels look okay, and the digital tier looks and sounds good. Is the OTA analog issue local to me on James Island?

I did have issues with HDNet reception when they connected me. The installer did a nice job on the wiring - new RG6 drop from the pole, sealed utility boxes on the outside of the house for the junctions, and would have done new outlets inside if I asked (they did one for the cable modem, which is replacing DSL). However, I had to remove a 3-way splitter that was in front of my DVR in order to get HDNet, even though the other channels worked okay.

I also had an issue getting DVI-HDMI to work. The SA8000 has a DVI output, so I bought an adapter from Radio Shack so I could keep on using my $100 HDMI cable from the SA8300. There wasn't as much point, since the DVI output doesn't pass the sound through the set (which would have simplified my setup had it ever worked - it didn't with Comcast), but some of the stations would black out with a message from the box that DVI/HDMI was blocked. So now, I'm back to using component cables. Frustrating, but I don't see a quality difference, and the pass-through option exists (it's disabled on HDMI).
-JFS

LuvthatHDTV,

You are correct. My TV has built in ATSC tuner and that is what I meant by "straight into TV"

I too, have sent emails to WTAT that have never been answered.

Did anyone watch ER last night on WCBD-DT? I did for awhile, but the picture froze about 10 minutes into the program and stayed that way while the sound continued for at least another 10 minutes. I switched away to CSI and checked back a couple times. I presume this was not a Knology issue, but can't say for sure - I didn't check the OTA feed (didn't think of it).

I just switched from Comcast to Knology. Having WCBD and HDNet in HD pushed me over the top. They don't have the INHD channels, Braves-HD or the ETV-SC channel, but do have Universal HD, so I think I came out ahead. I was happy to tell Comcast I'm cancelling because they can't commit to a time for carrying WCBD!

They provided an SA8000, but supposedly have 8300's available. Their call center was confused about whether I could carry-in the 8000 for an exchange. I'm seeing the problem I had with Comcast's SA8000 where I get frequent audio dropouts on HD recordings; Knology supposedly did a reset, but it didn't look like what they described (it was supposed to erase everything on the box, but didn't), and I haven't had time to review any recordings since Monday.

The picture quality for HD is fine. For OTA analog stations it blows - I mean ghosts and all. It looks like they're using rabbit ears! The satellite fed analog channels look okay, and the digital tier looks and sounds good. Is the OTA analog issue local to me on James Island?

I did have issues with HDNet reception when they connected me. The installer did a nice job on the wiring - new RG6 drop from the pole, sealed utility boxes on the outside of the house for the junctions, and would have done new outlets inside if I asked (they did one for the cable modem, which is replacing DSL). However, I had to remove a 3-way splitter that was in front of my DVR in order to get HDNet, even though the other channels worked okay.

I also had an issue getting DVI-HDMI to work. The SA8000 has a DVI output, so I bought an adapter from Radio Shack so I could keep on using my $100 HDMI cable from the SA8300. There wasn't as much point, since the DVI output doesn't pass the sound through the set (which would have simplified my setup had it ever worked - it didn't with Comcast), but some of the stations would black out with a message from the box that DVI/HDMI was blocked. So now, I'm back to using component cables. Frustrating, but I don't see a quality difference, and the pass-through option exists (it's disabled on HDMI).
-JFS

Knology does have the SA8300, when i switched from TWC i just told the CSR that i wanted an 8000 for the bedroom and an 8300 for the living room.

The only instance of ghosting i see is on my crappy set in the garage. I dont use a cable box in the garage, just straight to the TV with cable. However the analogs on all 3 sets are grainy. Having all the major locals in HD is nice.

jfschroeder- I could never get the digital out (via HDMI) on my 8300 to work with my projector. I've read several posts where people have problems with it, so maybe the 8000 uses a similar chipset? It kept telling me that my display device was not HDCP compliant when it is, so I now use component cables.

Anyone know if the Clemson game on ABC will be in HD? I doubt it, but it is worth asking...

There wasn't as much point, since the DVI output doesn't pass the sound through the set (which would have simplified my setup had it ever worked - it didn't with Comcast), -JFS

DVI connection doesn't include audio, so a separate audio connection much be established. This is a technology issue not an issue with Comcast, Knology or TWC.

Alcon,

I am using the HDMI-out on my 8300 (comcast@chs) to my Infocus 4805 PJ with no issues. HD PQ makes my pla$ma neighbors envious.

Max

I finally received a reply from WTAT's engineer. It seems that they have the low power antenna pointed at down town Charleston. That leaves the rest of us out of signal. He claims that they are moving towards the full power tower being up in the next few months. Haven't we heard that before? Anyway, they are finally listening and paying attention. Thank you to all who have helped with the emails. Someone somewhere is starting to notice. Now if we can get Sinclair and TWC to play together, a lot of us would be much happier.

Darthtom,

Did you happen to mention the possible PSIP issues to the engineer? If not how did you get in contact with the engineer? I would like to explain the situation to him if I could, thanks!

Darthtom,

Did you happen to mention the possible PSIP issues to the engineer? If not how did you get in contact with the engineer? I would like to explain the situation to him if I could, thanks!

I believe a lot of us would love to be able to contact that engineer and get some straight answers on what is happening. Darthtom, maybe you can share the email address with us so we can all send our comments and concern into this person who seems to be closest to having a clue. :rolleyes:

As far as the HDTivo (HR10-250) not picking up or "translating" the WTAT-DT signal, does anyone know if this is simply an issue of rebooting my box? I rescanned and nada. I have manually entered 40-3 as a channel number, and nothing shows up. I guess if they are pointing to downtown (is this from Arco Ln or Awendaw?) then those of us in the north area are SOL.

I have a Voom STB that I can try and search for the signal, but this would be frustrating as I only have one Component In on my TV, and no HDMI/DVI option, so I would be constantly swapping cables back and forth. I will none the less give it a try and report back on success or failure.

And I do not have a built-in ATSC tuner, so that option is moot. I guess they just don't want to care about those individuals who are getting the signal for free. Besides, what's in it for them when we are getting a free OTA signal - or not getting one for that matter. :mad:

Does anyone else have this box with Comcast? I've posted before regarding the issue with the different HD signals and the box not picking it up HD correctly and switching it to 480P. Before it wasn't every time, but now it seems like an every time occurance.

For example if I'm on INHD1 and it's stuck in 480P(grey bars on top and bottom) it will stay this way on INHD2, TNT, CBS, and will get fixed when it hits ABC's 720P. What I usaully do is change the channel to ESPN and then back to INHD or whetever and it corrects it, unless I'm on a 720P station to begin, then I have to go to a 1080i to fix it.

According to other forums there is a firmware update to correct this, but apparently local Comcast isn't picking this up. Maybe if enough of us shout it will get fixed.

BTW, the worst time for this to happen is if you pause live HD TV and happen to be recording other shows on the same signal, you have nothing to bounce to and are forced to watch the remaining HD show in SD.

I believe a lot of us would love to be able to contact that engineer and get some straight answers on what is happening. Darthtom, maybe you can share the email address with us so we can all send our comments and concern into this person who seems to be closest to having a clue. :rolleyes:

As far as the HDTivo (HR10-250) not picking up or "translating" the WTAT-DT signal, does anyone know if this is simply an issue of rebooting my box? I rescanned and nada. I have manually entered 40-3 as a channel number, and nothing shows up. I guess if they are pointing to downtown (is this from Arco Ln or Awendaw?) then those of us in the north area are SOL.

I have a Voom STB that I can try and search for the signal, but this would be frustrating as I only have one Component In on my TV, and no HDMI/DVI option, so I would be constantly swapping cables back and forth. I will none the less give it a try and report back on success or failure.

And I do not have a built-in ATSC tuner, so that option is moot. I guess they just don't want to care about those individuals who are getting the signal for free. Besides, what's in it for them when we are getting a free OTA signal - or not getting one for that matter. :mad:

ATP,
I will check tomorrow, but I think this affects the Directv H10 also. I don't have the H10 connected to an antenna right now, so I can't tell, but I plan on connecting it again tomorrow to test it. But it quit working with Fox a few days before I got the HD Tivo installed. If it wasn't for the H10 not working and the fact that I occasionally pick up UPN (which is on the same tower but at a lower height and power than Fox), I might think it was just the HD Tivo not working well. Especially since I tried buying a HD Tivo several months ago (as an open box buy for $850), but I returned it since it's OTA tuner had issues. The H10 actually shows a signal when using the signal meter, but the box says it has no signal when trying to watch the channels.
One problem I see is that there seems to be relatively few people in the Charleston/Mt. Pleasant/ N. Charleston area that actually pick up HD OTA. The DirecTv installer who installed my HD Tivo said he had never even seen the unit work with OTA HD signals (he originally set the Zip Code for the box to 11111, not knowing that the box needs the right zip code for the OTA signals' guide to work correctly) Since few people receive Fox OTA, WTAT probably doesn't care if we few "early adopters" can receive their signal or not.
At least we have one station (WCSC CBS) that cares about their HD signal(and PBS also). ABC needs to raise up their volume a lot!!! and get rid of that flickering few pixels near the top center on their SD broadcasts. And NBC needs to get their act together and buy a transmitter a year ago when they knew it would take a year to get their tower up to par; that way they can broadcast with more power than most ham radio operators. And UPN needs to get some HD equipment so they can broadcast their one show in HD. Actually it's a sad state of affairs for HDTV in Charleston!
(BTW I believe Fox is still at Arco Lane)

LuvThatHDTV Will your HD tivo give guide info from DMAs other than what you have zip code set.
I have a Dish 921DVR I get OTA chs from 5 DMAs I get ota guide from sat that has the locals for that DMA.
Charleston, Sav. and Columbia have locals on Sat at 105 deg. I do not have a dish for 105 so no EPG.
But Jax. and Orlando have locals on sat 110 and I can get EPG for the OTA ch I pick up from Jax and Orlando because I have a dish for 110 sat.

Does anyone else have this box with Comcast? I've posted before regarding the issue with the different HD signals and the box not picking it up HD correctly and switching it to 480P. Before it wasn't every time, but now it seems like an every time occurance.

For example if I'm on INHD1 and it's stuck in 480P(grey bars on top and bottom) it will stay this way on INHD2, TNT, CBS, and will get fixed when it hits ABC's 720P. What I usaully do is change the channel to ESPN and then back to INHD or whetever and it corrects it, unless I'm on a 720P station to begin, then I have to go to a 1080i to fix it.

According to other forums there is a firmware update to correct this, but apparently local Comcast isn't picking this up. Maybe if enough of us shout it will get fixed.

BTW, the worst time for this to happen is if you pause live HD TV and happen to be recording other shows on the same signal, you have nothing to bounce to and are forced to watch the remaining HD show in SD.

Is your box in Pass Thru when this happens?

As for the patch, it is currently not approved for any Comcast systems. Once it is approved, it would likely be sent down to all systems one time. The upgrade itself has many changes (not just the pass thru change) so they have to all be tested for every Comcast system to determine what if any negative effect it would have.

Frank,
Can you give us any hints as to what else the upgrade changes?
-brian

LuvThatHDTV Will your HD tivo give guide info from DMAs other than what you have zip code set.
I have a Dish 921DVR I get OTA chs from 5 DMAs I get ota guide from sat that has the locals for that DMA.
Charleston, Sav. and Columbia have locals on Sat at 105 deg. I do not have a dish for 105 so no EPG.
But Jax. and Orlando have locals on sat 110 and I can get EPG for the OTA ch I pick up from Jax and Orlando because I have a dish for 110 sat.


oljim,
I know that I can add at least one other zip code to the list for getting guide info; but since I only use Charleston I haven't experimented with more.

Well it looks like I now have a quandary! I connected my D* H10 to my Silver Senso antenna and it now picks up WTAT again. But so far the HD Tivo doesn't. I wonder if the H10 started working whenever reisb said "FOX finally went from channel 40-3 to 24-1"
Either the HD Tivo still has issues with WTAT's data stream, or the tuner is a piece of crap. Well time for some more playing.

Frank,
Can you give us any hints as to what else the upgrade changes?
-brian


I'm not sure of any of the specific upgrades/fixes. Based on what our engineers are saying, the patch the OP was referring to has other components that are in the process of being lab tested.

Well I tried the HD tivo again and still no WTAT.

Well it looks like I now have a quandary! I connected my D* H10 to my Silver Senso antenna and it now picks up WTAT again. But so far the HD Tivo doesn't. I wonder if the H10 started working whenever reisb said "FOX finally went from channel 40-3 to 24-1"
Either the HD Tivo still has issues with WTAT's data stream, or the tuner is a piece of crap. Well time for some more playing.

Can't say whether it is crap or not, but I hooked up my Voom STB today and tried to get WTAT and nothing. I think - for me anyway - the issue is more the relative position of the Fox tower (Arco Lane) and pointing directly to downtown (opposite of me here in Goose Creek).

I am so far quite pleased with the HDTivo's signal pickup/amplification. On the Voom STB, I got 5-1 at about 85-90%. on the HDTivo, it comes in at 95-100%. Obviously, different boxes have different scales of reception and power ratings.

So I am just chalking it up as WTAT being weak and improperly aimed for my purposes. :(

Here's my situation with WTAT (Fox). I could never pick up a signal using my Silver Sensor, but then I installed a Channel Master 4228 antenna & amp in my attic and was able to pull it in with no problem for several months. I'm in Mt Pleasant, off Ben Sawyer Blvd.

Anway, a few weeks ago, I completely lost WTAT and havn't gotton a speck of signal since.

So I'm guessing one of two things happened:
1. They changed thier PSIP info
2. They moved to a lower power antenna (I thought they were already using a low power antenna, since I couldn't pick it up with the silver sensor, but could get most other local feeds via the SS)

Not sure if it makes any difference, but I'm using an ATI HDTV wonder PCI card in a Media Center HTPC. All my other locals are coming in fine.

Here's my situation with WTAT (Fox). I could never pick up a signal using my Silver Sensor, but then I installed a Channel Master 4228 antenna & amp in my attic and was able to pull it in with no problem for several months. I'm in Mt Pleasant, off Ben Sawyer Blvd.

Anway, a few weeks ago, I completely lost WTAT and havn't gotton a speck of signal since.

So I'm guessing one of two things happened:
1. They changed thier PSIP info
2. They moved to a lower power antenna (I thought they were already using a low power antenna, since I couldn't pick it up with the silver sensor, but could get most other local feeds via the SS)

Not sure if it makes any difference, but I'm using an ATI HDTV wonder PCI card in a Media Center HTPC. All my other locals are coming in fine.

nilknarf,
I think your experience is somewhat similar to mine. My biggest problem is that I got the HD Tivo about 2 days after WTAT was lost on my H10. And once the HD Tivo was installed I quit using the H10 for a while. The H10 now seems to be working, but I have never gotten WTAT on the HD Tivo. My signal seems the same on all my tuners (except the Tivo) as it used to be, so I don't think they've lowered their power any. I think it is PSIP related. Since the H10 quit for a while and then eventually came back, i'd be willing to bet that they have made at least two changes. The first wiped out the H10 and Tivo and the second allowed the H10 to start working but kept the Tivo and your ATI dead. If only WTAT would reply to emails then maybe they'd know something was wrong and try to fix it!!

Hmmm...I had a similar issue with WTAT. My Dish 811 picks it up fine but it was installed a while back. I recently installed a new Dish 942 and it won't register WTAT even though the signal is plenty strong enough. Dish tech support has been no help.

With everyone seeming to have the same problems at the same time, WTAT obviously did something, the question is what did they do and how can we get their channel back? Seems like they would be interested in keeping viewers but considering how lousy their customer service is (no returned phone calls or e-mails) I am doubting this will get resolved.

Anybody have any contacts at the station?

Hmmm...I had a similar issue with WTAT. My Dish 811 picks it up fine but it was installed a while back. I recently installed a new Dish 942 and it won't register WTAT even though the signal is plenty strong enough. Dish tech support has been no help.

With everyone seeming to have the same problems at the same time, WTAT obviously did something, the question is what did they do and how can we get their channel back? Seems like they would be interested in keeping viewers but considering how lousy their customer service is (no returned phone calls or e-mails) I am doubting this will get resolved.

Anybody have any contacts at the station?

I called WTAT today and the receptionist said the engineer was going to be at the tower until ~4 pm and then she linked me to his voice mail. I left a brief description of the problem some of us seem to be having. But of course I doubt I will ever hear back from them. I guess I can just call back every few days!

Sorry I have been responded to you guys. I have been away. Below is a copy of the email I received the other day.....

Mr. Richards,
We currently air YD on a low power transmitter from our studio site on Arco Lane in N. Charleston. The antennas are pointed toward our city of license, that is Charleston, with you being located in North Charleston you are on the back side of our antenna. That, most likely, is the reason that you are unable to receive our YD signal at this time. We are currently working on our full-power transmitters and are expecting to have them up and running within the next few months. Once we are at full power you should have no problem receiving our YD signal. If you have any other questions, please feel free to call me At 744-2424ext 251.
We appreciate your continued viewership and your continued understanding in this matter.

Michael Kordek
Chief Engineer
mkordek@sbgnet.com

Of course, he is only the engineer but he can answer your tech questions.

I am on a mission to get the signal boosted and have FoxHD added to the TWC Summerville line up. I have been emailing them a lot. These emails is what made someone take notice and the engineer email me. I would appreciate everyone's help in emailing the list. If we inundate them with emails, hopefully someone will listen.

Here is the list I currently use...

programming@fox.com; support@fox.com; comments@fox.com; twcscservice@twcable.com; comments@sbgi.net; webmaster@fox.com; programming@wtat24.com; comments@wtat24.com; sales@fox.com; mkordek@sbgnet.com

As i find more.. I will let everyone know. Thanks for your help.

Is your box in Pass Thru when this happens?

As for the patch, it is currently not approved for any Comcast systems. Once it is approved, it would likely be sent down to all systems one time. The upgrade itself has many changes (not just the pass thru change) so they have to all be tested for every Comcast system to determine what if any negative effect it would have.

Yes, this happens on pass-through, and both upconvert. The only one it doesn't have problems with obviously is 'fixed' since it doesn't switch between 720 and 1080, but the problem is watching standard def with gray bars on the side and not allowing my TV to stretch (which does a heck of a lot better than the cable boxes stretch).

I hope they get this patch through quickly. I'm glad to hear that they will be changing more, but I hate when they(any manufacturer) roll comfort(not necessity) changes in with what I feel to be a mandatory fix, as you have said it 'it needs to be tested'

Sorry I have been responded to you guys. I have been away. Below is a copy of the email I received the other day.....

Mr. Richards,
We currently air YD on a low power transmitter from our studio site on Arco Lane in N. Charleston. The antennas are pointed toward our city of license, that is Charleston, with you being located in North Charleston you are on the back side of our antenna. That, most likely, is the reason that you are unable to receive our YD signal at this time. We are currently working on our full-power transmitters and are expecting to have them up and running within the next few months. Once we are at full power you should have no problem receiving our YD signal. If you have any other questions, please feel free to call me At 744-2424ext 251.
We appreciate your continued viewership and your continued understanding in this matter.

Michael Kordek
Chief Engineer
mkordek@sbgnet.com

Of course, he is only the engineer but he can answer your tech questions.

I am on a mission to get the signal boosted and have FoxHD added to the TWC Summerville line up. I have been emailing them a lot. These emails is what made someone take notice and the engineer email me. I would appreciate everyone's help in emailing the list. If we inundate them with emails, hopefully someone will listen.

Here is the list I currently use...

programming@fox.com; support@fox.com; comments@fox.com; twcscservice@twcable.com; comments@sbgi.net; webmaster@fox.com; programming@wtat24.com; comments@wtat24.com; sales@fox.com; mkordek@sbgnet.com

As i find more.. I will let everyone know. Thanks for your help.

Tom -

Do you have a stock email that you are sending? Maybe if we all send the exact same copy of the email it might carry more weight. Sort of a political grass roots letter campaign. Obviously, some personalizations would be required for each of us to explain our location and equipment,but the soul of the email would be the same, including dates of first noticing the problem, previous contact attempts,etc. Just a thought... :rolleyes:

Tom -

Do you have a stock email that you are sending? Maybe if we all send the exact same copy of the email it might carry more weight. Sort of a political grass roots letter campaign. Obviously, some personalizations would be required for each of us to explain our location and equipment,but the soul of the email would be the same, including dates of first noticing the problem, previous contact attempts,etc. Just a thought... :rolleyes:

I do not have stock email. I have sent so many over the last year. I will make one and post it though. Let me give it some thought.

For those asking about the HR10-250 & OTA.

Just installed a Channel Master 4221 on a 5' mast on the top eave on my 2 story house. (~25-30' total height), and I get a 71% signal strength. Watched about an hour of 24-1, and no dropouts. 71% was the best I could get on Fox aimed right at WTAT's tower. I get 90-95% on 2-1, 4-1, 5-1, 7-3, and 20-40% on 36-1 which is not enough to lock in.

I'm in Goose Creek, woodland lakes area.

Question for Frank or Diane

How do you handle ABC-HD (originally 720p) ? Do you upconvert it to 1080i or leave it alone ?

Thanks.

Max

For those asking about the HR10-250 & OTA.

Just installed a Channel Master 4221 on a 5' mast on the top eave on my 2 story house. (~25-30' total height), and I get a 71% signal strength. Watched about an hour of 24-1, and no dropouts. 71% was the best I could get on Fox aimed right at WTAT's tower. I get 90-95% on 2-1, 4-1, 5-1, 7-3, and 20-40% on 36-1 which is not enough to lock in.

I'm in Goose Creek, woodland lakes area.

Precision Power,
What firmware and software versions do you have? The firmware is listed as PROM and both can be accessed by pressing "right" and info simultaneously on the front panel. The reason I ask is because I also get 36-1 at about 25-50% with an occasional lock (this is slightly worse than my 3 other tuners, but not by much) I get the strongest signal from 36-1 with my antenna aimed at about 240 degrees. All my other tuners get the strongest signal with the antenna at about the same position.
And with my 3 other tuners, I get Fox at a very steady 70-80% with an aiming within 5-10 degrees from UPN's strongest signal. But the Tivo has absolutely nothing for signal at 240 for 24-1. If I aim around 160 or 330 degrees I see some kind of signal jumping between about 1% and 8% for something on channel 40, but have never gotten a lock on that station and therefore don't know if that signal is even from WTAT.
So this leads me to one of two conclusions.
1) The TIVO has a very crappy tuner, but only with Fox
2) There is some kind of stream issue with the signal which only affects some machines
Until reading your post, no one on this thread seemed to have any luck with the HR10-250 and 24-1 recently. And some other people have had recent issues with 24-1 with other tuners, so I have been leaning towards answer #2, especially when 4-1 had PSIP issues with some Samsung tuners (including the H10) several months ago. If your Firmware and software revisions are identical to mine then I'm really lost.
Thanks

LuvThatHDTV,

Software Version 3.1.5f-01-2-357
Prom Version 2.14 M H3 S3

I just got the hr10-250, and moved my Zenith HD-SAT520 upstairs. Last year during football season I used a temporarily installed R.S. antenna. It worked OK, but being that it was not permanently installed I had occasional dropouts. Right now the zenith is hooked up to my Silver Sensor, and gets everything except fox/upn. I was hoping that WTAT would go high power this season, but since they haven't I went the permanent installation route.

LuvThatHDTV,
Software Version 3.1.5f-01-2-357
Prom Version 2.14 M H3 S3


I have the same versions on my HDTivo. And we are likely to keep that version since D* has made it clear that they are only pushing their soon-to-be-released HD PVR. The thing that is confusing me is that everything was working until a couple of weeks ago. It just suddenly dropped for good.

I have the ChannelMaster 3010 (or 3020) and it is permanently attached to my chimney top, about 15-20 feet high. When it was originally installed by the E* tech, we decided that since their receiver could not clearly pick up Fox/UPN, we would aim it for the majority of channels. I don't know the exact angle, but generally towards Awendaw. BTW, I am in the Crowfield area of Goose Creek.

When V* did their install about a year ago, their box was able to get all channels...even UPN was clear enough to get a lock. There was the occassional dropout on UPN and it was slightly better on Fox. Then when D* was installed about 1 1/2 months ago, Fox was crystal clear, but no UPN. At no time did I ever re-aim my antenna.

So I would have to say:
1. Not all boxes are created equal. The HDTivo from D* seems to be pretty good at getting everybody that broadcasts with any "umph"
2. Something recently changed at Fox causing anyone not directly in-line with the signal from Arco Lane to lose all signals.

I figure it has nothing to do with the HDTivo boxes because D* is not pushing any software/firmware updates since they are ignoring these boxes in place of their own product. So this leaves only one culprit: WTAT-Fox.

On a slightly different note, I get the local channels through D* in SD. I wanted to watch the Clemson game today (Saturday) and since I cannot get UPN via OTA, I tuned to D*'s channel 36. The PQ was horrible. It looked like something you would see on an OTA signal that you get from using rabbit ears and tin foil on an old B&W TV from the 50's. So does this means that D* is only rebroadcasting what they get. They don't monkey with the signal at all, do they? If so, they need to boost the UPN inbound signal or clean it up somehow. I can handle a little ghosting, but this was ridiculous. Then again, I don't ever expect to see anything of any value on that channel to begin with.

Precision Power :

Thanks for the info. I also have the same firmware and software. There must be something else going on.

atp1313:

I also believe it is WTAT at fault, especially since you also had the HD Tivo working with Fox until recently. But I wonder why the Tivo can't pick up anything when my other receivers work fine.
I do have a silver sensor upstairs, so maybe I will drag the Tivo upstairs this week and see if I have any luck using it. It would be easier to drag the silver sensor down here, but I know the SS can't get Fox except for upstairs.
It would be nice if the WTAT engineer would have the courtesy to give a reply if they have made any recent changes, but it looks like that will never happen!

Question for Frank or Diane

How do you handle ABC-HD (originally 720p) ? Do you upconvert it to 1080i or leave it alone ?

Thanks.

Max

TWC passes through HD signals exactly as they are received from the Broadcast Affiliate.

{Please don't call me Diane - thanks}

I am on a mission to get the signal boosted and have FoxHD added to the TWC Summerville line up. I have been emailing them a lot. These emails is what made someone take notice and the engineer email me. I would appreciate everyone's help in emailing the list. If we inundate them with emails, hopefully someone will listen.

Here is the list I currently use...

; twcscservice@twcable.com;

As i find more.. I will let everyone know. Thanks for your help.


Please don't include twcscservice. That is the On Line Customer Service group (2 FT and 1 PT) who are primarily supposed to help with On Line Troubleshooting. I monitor this group and they simply refer your emails to me... so if you want to include a TWC email please make it twcscnews so that we don't clog up the twcscservice inbox and delay responses to those customer's trying to get help with troubleshooting.

I appreciate this consideration.

atp1313

Last year with my temporarily installed Radio Shack antenna I was able to get WTAT with it at a height of 15'. When I tried a few weeks ago I couldn't get a good lock, granted I didnt try real hard since I planned on getting a CM. Even with the CM @ 15' I was just barely able to get a lock 50-60%. Now with the CM @~30' I get 70-75%.

So I will have to agree that WTAT has changed something, but a signal can be locked from Goose Creek if you can get the antenna high enough.

I also agree with you on D* locals. When I talked to the installer he said that they have an vhf/uhf antenna somewhere in Summerville that receives the locals, and they send it to D*, and that's how we get our locals.

LuvThatHDTV

No problem.

WTAT

Well instead of disconnecting the HD Tivo and dragging it upstairs I connected the Tivo to the Silver Sensor with a 100' coax and drug the SS all around the house until I finally got a locked signal of about 62%. Therefore the problem with WTAT for me isn't the PSIP data, it's somehow related to the OTA reception. (although they did seem to have a problem for a week or two with the PSIP data when the H10 had signal strength but no picture) The SS was aimed approximately the same direction as the outside antenna is when the other tunes have the strongest signals ( approx. 240 degrees from my house)
My outside antenna is placed to aim between my house and the neighbors, which is approximately aimed towards Fox's tower. I would venture to guess that I get plenty of reflected signals since I'm actually aimed more towards the corner of my house than between the two buildings. (I can't move the antenna more since it's on the corner of the porch) This would lead me to believe that the Tivo tuner has problems with reflected signals. (Strange though that I occasionally get a picture on UPN). I guess I will next try disconnecting the Radio Shack pre-amp/amp and see if that has any effect. If that doesn't work then I guess the WTAT on Tivo will have to wait until they finally move to the NBC tower (2007???)

Is anyone getting audio on channel 36-1? I just did my daily check on the channel, and I finally am getting a good lock (62-70%), but no audio at all. I am also getting 80-85% on 24.1 which is higher than normal. Does anyone know if WTAT finally went with higher power or is it just weather related?


I also checked my old zenith HD receiver, and was able to lock both fox/upn with the silver sensor. I wasn't able to lock those channels before today with the silver sensor. Also no audio on 36-1. The silver sensor is in an upstairs bedroom, so I don't think I would be able to get a signal with it downstairs. I wonder if WTAT has amplified their signal a little.

Is anyone getting audio on channel 36-1? I just did my daily check on the channel, and I finally am getting a good lock (62-70%), but no audio at all. I am also getting 80-85% on 24.1 which is higher than normal. Does anyone know if WTAT finally went with higher power or is it just weather related?


I also checked my old zenith HD receiver, and was able to lock both fox/upn with the silver sensor. I wasn't able to lock those channels before today with the silver sensor. Also no audio on 36-1. The silver sensor is in an upstairs bedroom, so I don't think I would be able to get a signal with it downstairs. I wonder if WTAT has amplified their signal a little.

Precision Power,
While playing with the SS with my Tivo I also noticed that 36-1 had no audio. When I went back to my normal antenna I barely got 36-1 (mostly pixelated), but NBC seemed stronger for me. So I would venture to guess that it's more weather related than anything else.
On a side note. I played around with the outside antenna and some inside cable/antenna amplifiers I've had for years. I tried running two of them in series, but I think I need an attenuator for that. But I did notice one thing very strange with the Tivo.
With my normal antenna setup, my three old receivers get their strongest signal when I'm aimed pretty much directly at the Fox tower. But with the Tivo, I only get any signal when I'm aimed about 90 degrees away from the tower. I left the pre amp on the antenna and removed the inside amp. and installed my old radio shack cable/antenna amplifiers (not designed with pre-amplifiers). When I did this Fox now almost locked in (about 25-35%) and the antenna was now aimed at the correct position instead of being 90 degrees out. I guess this means the HD Tivo has issues with the radio shack amp/pre-amp I usually have installed. Maybe it's multi-path issues or something similar. I'm toying with the idea of getting a channel master amp/pre-amp from Lowes today...I don't know

Well, I went by Lowes and tried the Channel Master 3041DSB pre-amp/amp. The Radio Shack #15-2507 I already have wound up being better. I actually got the strongest signal with the CM preamp and the RS amp connected at the same time, but since WTAT was still not watchable on the HDTivo I will return the CM.
The RS Pre-amp/amp is supposed to be 15dB gain for each of the amp and pre-amps for a total of 30dB gain. But I always have the amp turned to "minimum" on it's dial. (I wonder if they actually have the dial labelled wrong??) The CM is supposed to be 23dB gain on UHF with lower noise than the older RS amps. Looks like the RS probably has more gain than the CM.
Well I guess Fox on the HD Tivo will have to wait until WTAT moves to the new tower. :(

I have Comcast Digital. Anyone know how I can get the Clemson vs. Wake Forest game today at 3?
Thanks

need to have ESPNU on your cable system -- maybe this "blackout" will help. HTC just added ESPNU and ESPN2HD in the Myrtle Beach area yesterday and ran ads in the MB paper letting us all know!

I'm not sure of any of the specific upgrades/fixes. Based on what our engineers are saying, the patch the OP was referring to has other components that are in the process of being lab tested.
Well hopefully there will be fixes to the DVR part of the box. This is the main part giving us grief. The latest woe:

We want to record Rome, House and Commander In Chief. That should be fine as new Rome episodes are on Sunday at 9. House and Commander in Chief are on Tuesdays at 9. However because the "New Episode" flag is not being set correctly if you ask the DVR to record new episodes only it basically records every presentation of a particular show. So I just ignore that setting. Now I use the "Record every presentation in this time slot" - works some of the time (though we get far too many recordings of the same episode of Weeds - why is it that this DVR doesn't mind filling the limited hard drive space with duplicates!! :mad: )

Anyway back to the original problem: Rome repeats on Tuesdays at 9 so I'm stuck with having to choose. I can't even tell the damn thing to skip the Tuesday recording of Rome - cancelling that recording cancels all Rome recordings. So basically I would like to be able to watch a show but I can't because the DVR is too dumb!

Thanks for listening.

Robert.

TWC passes through HD signals exactly as they are received from the Broadcast Affiliate.

{Please don't call me Diane - thanks}

Diana ... apologies ... and thank you for the response.

Max

Is Frank from Comcast still active here ?

I have a few major gripes with the On Demand service.

- Every time you exit a show it takes you back to the main on demand (OD) menu. This is frustrating if you are trying to watch several segments in a series ... for instance, HGTV has small tips that last no more than 2-3 minutes each ... after every segment I have to route my way back into the HGTV section from the root OD menu !!!

- On demand channels are scattered all over the place with no logical order ... in instances where they are categorized ... they are not in alphabetical order !! This is plain aggravating. Appears like the same person was also responsible for coming up with the overall channel lineup for Comcast ... its a big embarrasing mess. Who is overseeing this ? It amazes me that Comcast would let such a major thing slide. The same company that cannot gets its channel in some sensible order is however also responsible for providing exceptional HD video quality (way better than what I used to receive from another provider). Which way is that pendulum swinging ?

Max

I finally had a chance to get up on my roof today and twiddle with my antenna to try and get Fox with my HR10-250 (HDTivo). The good news is that I was able to pick up Fox with very little drop out when the antenna was pointed directly at the Arco Ln tower. The bad news is that the other three "major" networks became scattered in their reception. I would get the same signal flucuation on all three where it would be crisp and clear for 5-15 seconds, then pixilate/dropout for about 2 seconds, then repeat.

I am hoping that this inability to lock onto the signal has more to do with the fairly steady breeze today making trees sway back and forth across the signal's path. Maybe I am being optimistic about that...

But considering that I am a fan of Desperate Housewives and Grey's Anatomy, I didn't want to "hope" that the signal would increase or the wind would decrease this evening, so I turned the antenna back to the 111-degree range (pointed at Awendaw).

So now I have a few additional dilemmas...now that I know that Fox OTA exists (again) for me in the Creek, what can I do to get a good signal without sacrificing the other three channels/networks.

1. Do I buy a rotator for my antenna? This would be fine except that I am fairly certain my Tivo will not be smart enough to rotate the antenna when i change channels. ;) If I have to manually turn it, how well/quickly do rotators work? Is this something that can be preset to only rotate the relative 50-degrees to point from 111* to 167*? Or would I have to monkey with it for several minutes each and every time I want to switch back and forth?

2. Do I buy an amp/pre-amp? How much can I expect this to boost the signal strength? Any recommendations? Where would it fit in...just any point before it goes into the HDTivo? Is the signal boost variable so I can monkey with it? Would the signal boost screw with the good signals I am getting already with the other channels to the point that they would be "washed out"?

3. What about adding a second antenna just for WTAT? Can antennas work in series? What kind of splitter/combiner would I need? Would it need to be powered/amped? I already have a Silver Sensor in mothballs that I could use. Would mounting it to the existing ChannelMaster antenna screw up either's performance?

If anyone can offer guidance on this, I would appreciate it. My main concern is getting everything set up in time for the MLB playoffs/World Series...unless the Braves choke early again. :rolleyes: Otherwise I can deal with NOT getting Fox HD as there is really nothing else out there on Fox that NEEDS to be in HD for me. It might be nice to watch some football in HD, but not required.

Precision Power,
While playing with the SS with my Tivo I also noticed that 36-1 had no audio. When I went back to my normal antenna I barely got 36-1 (mostly pixelated), but NBC seemed stronger for me. So I would venture to guess that it's more weather related than anything else.

I guess it was weather related, I lost 36.1 again, and WTAT is back down to 70%.

atp1313,

What you tried is exactly what I'm doing. It may have a lot to do with the height of my antenna. I'm pointed directly at Arco, but I'm still able to get the other 3 networks with no dropouts on any (knock on wood). Have you gave thought to trying a UHF only antenna? I have never used amps or rotators so I am no help in that department.

- Every time you exit a show it takes you back to the main on demand (OD) menu. This is frustrating if you are trying to watch several segments in a series ... for instance, HGTV has small tips that last no more than 2-3 minutes each ... after every segment I have to route my way back into the HGTV section from the root OD menu !!!

This is a function of the VOD platform that we use. I agree that it can be frustrating, especially when it comes to the 5 minute clips. Perhaps this is something that will be addressed with future upgrades, this same sentiment has been sent to the provider by others as well.

- On demand channels are scattered all over the place with no logical order ... in instances where they are categorized ... they are not in alphabetical order !!

They are categorized by genre, like Kids programming, Home, TV Shows, Movies etc. The arrangement is done in a way so that the more popular content is higher up on the guide so that it is easier for customers to find it and get to. That is why Free Movies is first, followed by Movies, etc. If they were in alphabetical order, some of the most popular categories would be on the second page of the menu. This would make it more difficult for the novice users to find and therefore they may not use it as much. The individual content providers are organized in the same manner for the same reasons. But if you go under say, Free Movies, Show All Titles, they are in alphabetical order. Most of the individual providers, like A&E, History, Discovery, etc list their titles in alphabetical order, once you get to their listings.

I live in N. Charleston (Coosaw Creek Sub.) and according to Antenna Web, I am 24 miles from the Awendaw Tower. The Compass bearing is 100 degrees for me.

I am using an outdoor Channel Master 4221 UHF Only Antenna. The Antenna Spec. is rated for 45 Miles. I am not using any Pre-Amp or Rotor. This antenna is the smaller baby brother to the popular/Highly Rated CM4228.

The antenna is mounted low (6' above ground) on the back wall of my home. I had to mount the antenna here (low) because of Tall Standing Pines which negated any higher mount configuration for my site.

I receive the following Digital UHF Station Signals as follows:

1. CBS - 90+ %
2. NBC - 90+%
3. PBS - 90+%

I have no signal dropouts for these 3 stations.

Up unitil last week I could not receive FOX (WTAT) or the local ABC Station. I then started to receive FOX (60%) and ABC (80%) with some but very few dropouts.

Now (this week) I am back to not receiving FOX, and ABC signal is still there but with many drop-outs.

It is my understanding that WTAT is still transmitting a low power signal and thier full-power tansmissions are still a few months away from reality.

Is my understanding on this Correct?

I also do not receive 36UPN.

I too have thought about purchasing a Pre-Amp and a Rotor, but I am not sure the pre-amp will help that much. The CM 7577 Pre-Amp is rated best at 26 db and only 2db noise floor. I do not need a pre-amp for other currently received stations.

I may opt for a Rotor, but I will wait and see if/when WTAT goes full-power.

You can pick up a CM Rotor at Lowes (for about $100.) and try it to see if it helps. If not, return it.

Does anyone know when WTAT will be at full-power?

These folks do not answer messages.

Thanks!

Max> Every time you exit a show it takes you back to the main on demand (OD) menu. This is frustrating if you are trying to watch several segments in a series ... for instance, HGTV has small tips that last no more than 2-3 minutes each ... after every segment I have to route my way back into the HGTV section from the root OD menu !!!

Frank> This is a function of the VOD platform that we use. I agree that it can be frustrating, especially when it comes to the 5 minute clips. Perhaps this is something that will be addressed with future upgrades, this same sentiment has been sent to the provider by others as well.


Ok ... lets hope we get that soon.

Max> On demand channels are scattered all over the place with no logical order ... in instances where they are categorized ... they are not in alphabetical order !!

Frank> They are categorized by genre, like Kids programming, Home, TV Shows, Movies etc. The arrangement is done in a way so that the more popular content is higher up on the guide so that it is easier for customers to find it and get to. That is why Free Movies is first, followed by Movies, etc. If they were in alphabetical order, some of the most popular categories would be on the second page of the menu. This would make it more difficult for the novice users to find and therefore they may not use it as much. The individual content providers are organized in the same manner for the same reasons. But if you go under say, Free Movies, Show All Titles, they are in alphabetical order. Most of the individual providers, like A&E, History, Discovery, etc list their titles in alphabetical order, once you get to their listings.

I realize what you are saying ... but I think its still flawed. There is room for significant improvement. For instance TCM OnDemand is hidden deep within some menu. TLC on-demand has no reason to hide inside Discovery OD ... put all channels inside a category called "Comcast Regular Channels OD" and consider alphabetizing them. You already have a category called "Premium Channels OD" ... I am proposing that very same concept.

Also, ordering by popularity is not effective ... because the percentage of viewers whose tastes exactly mirror Comcast's popularity chart ... is going to be very very miniscule.

This same logic should apply to regular channel lineups as well. Headline news is on 25 ... while MSNBC is on 31 ... with non-news channels in between the two. Makes no sense. The same tech who neatly organized the p$rn channels ... task him/her with this ... I bet he/she can do a bangup job.

But seriously .. feel free to PM me .. and we can chat offline ... I am willing to offer my strategic mgmt expertise for free ... well ... come to think of it ... you can return the favor by working on getting us National Geographic in HD :)

Sincerely appreciate your efforts in working with the 'community'. Thanks for your response.

Max

Just to clarify when I said the most popular titles, that is based on reports of what customers are ordering, not what I or anyone else feels is the more compelling content. There are multiple reports that we run monthly to drill down to what content is being ordered. There is a method to the madness.

It is still a work in progress and there are some improvements that can be made, as you said. This is true with all products and services and feedback alway helps. I will forward your thoughts and concerns up the ladder to my division and corporate marketing for review.

Moving linear channels around in the line up can be tricky but it is something that is currently being discussed. There are several moving pieces that each could have a major impact so we have to be careful and take our time. It is a long process, but stay tuned!

Media General and COMCAST have reached an agreement for full carriage of their digital signal.

I received word via an executive at Media General via e-mail earlier this afternoon.

I don't know the exact date for when COMCAST plans to bring WCBD-DT on board. Frank might be able to shed some light on this.

Have a good night
Mark

Media General and COMCAST have reached an agreement for full carriage of their digital signal.

I received word via an executive at Media General via e-mail earlier this afternoon.

I don't know the exact date for when COMCAST plans to bring WCBD-DT on board. Frank might be able to shed some light on this.

Have a good night
Mark

...maybe that will get the ball rolling.

Media General and COMCAST have reached an agreement for full carriage of their digital signal.

I received word via an executive at Media General via e-mail earlier this afternoon.

I don't know the exact date for when COMCAST plans to bring WCBD-DT on board. Frank might be able to shed some light on this.

Have a good night
Mark

Is TWC taking notes? Everyone else seems to be fully on board with local HD...cable companies anyway.

Welcome back Mark, that's great news !

Seems WTAT has gotten their psip issues corrected, am able to receive them here again on my Moto OTA box @ 24.1. And yes, PP, no sound either here on 36.1.

For everyone having weather related issues - Just seems when we get one of those pesky offshore winds blowing, I ALWAYS get dropouts here in MP and I'm only 8 miles from the towers. Nature of the beast, I guess.

Can anyone recommend a good (read: affordable) antenna installer? I think it might be easier if I pay someone to climb up on my chimney and insert a pre-amp and/or rotor.

So now I have a few additional dilemmas...now that I know that Fox OTA exists (again) for me in the Creek, what can I do to get a good signal without sacrificing the other three channels/networks.

1. Do I buy a rotator for my antenna? This would be fine except that I am fairly certain my Tivo will not be smart enough to rotate the antenna when i change channels. ;) If I have to manually turn it, how well/quickly do rotators work? Is this something that can be preset to only rotate the relative 50-degrees to point from 111* to 167*? Or would I have to monkey with it for several minutes each and every time I want to switch back and forth?

2. Do I buy an amp/pre-amp? How much can I expect this to boost the signal strength? Any recommendations? Where would it fit in...just any point before it goes into the HDTivo? Is the signal boost variable so I can monkey with it? Would the signal boost screw with the good signals I am getting already with the other channels to the point that they would be "washed out"?

3. What about adding a second antenna just for WTAT? Can antennas work in series? What kind of splitter/combiner would I need? Would it need to be powered/amped? I already have a Silver Sensor in mothballs that I could use. Would mounting it to the existing ChannelMaster antenna screw up either's performance?

If anyone can offer guidance on this, I would appreciate it. My main concern is getting everything set up in time for the MLB playoffs/World Series...unless the Braves choke early again. :rolleyes: Otherwise I can deal with NOT getting Fox HD as there is really nothing else out there on Fox that NEEDS to be in HD for me. It might be nice to watch some football in HD, but not required.

atp1313,

1) I have the CM rotator from Lowes. It has a digital readout and can be programmed. (i.e. you can rotate the antenna to a certain position and store this as a two digit number) or, if it is setup correctly, then it uses compass numbers for it's position. The remote is pretty poor but it uses standard IR commands so it's possible to get a universal remote to control it. I guess if the remote is robust enough then a macro might be able to be used to move the antenna at certain times. (but this is only a guess) Also for a 50 degree change it takes about 8 seconds. Also there is some drift in the positioning control so occasionally a "calibrate" or "sync" needs to be done, which is done rather quickly. The box rotates the antenna fully clockwise then counter-clockwise and then back to your original position. The drift on my box isn't too bad so I do a sync about once every 2 months. Also the "monkeying" would depend on how narrow a range you need on the aiming. With everything but my Tivo I get at least 10-20 degrees of play and the rotator can easily move to within this range quickly.

2) While researching amps/pre-amps last year I read somewhere that a certain gain amp was the equivalent of getting an antenna that was 12 times the size. I use the Radio Shack Cat # 15-2507. It worked better for me than the Lowes Channel Master I tried last week. Obviously neither of these helped me get WTAT on my Tivo, but the RS had a stronger signal on all the other stations. (as it should since the gain is higher).
I do know that a small antenna with an amp/pre-amp worked much, much better for me than a large antenna. Last year I tried numerous things to get WTAT. I even tried a 150" Channel Master antenna with an indoor cable/tv amplifier and couldn't get WTAT. I settled on a 50" RS antenna with the amp/pre-amp and it worked great until the Tivo rained on my parade. And the 50" antenna with amp was about the same price as the 150" antenna without an amp.
The amp/pre-amp has two parts. One part is pole mounted and needs to be as close to the antenna elements as possible. The other part can be indoors and just needs to be wired upstream of the Tivo.
The indoor part (which I now believe is actually the pre-amp portion) sometimes has gain control and sometimes not. My RS amp does have gain control but I think it's labeled wrong since I always keep it at the lowest setting. Also I never have issues with having the gain too high (assuming the setting is labeled wrong)

3) see this website:
http://www.tvantenna.com/support/tutorials/combining.html

I live in N. Charleston (Coosaw Creek Sub.) and according to Antenna Web, I am 24 miles from the Awendaw Tower. The Compass bearing is 100 degrees for me.

I am using an outdoor Channel Master 4221 UHF Only Antenna. The Antenna Spec. is rated for 45 Miles. I am not using any Pre-Amp or Rotor. This antenna is the smaller baby brother to the popular/Highly Rated CM4228.

The antenna is mounted low (6' above ground) on the back wall of my home. I had to mount the antenna here (low) because of Tall Standing Pines which negated any higher mount configuration for my site.

I receive the following Digital UHF Station Signals as follows:

1. CBS - 90+ %
2. NBC - 90+%
3. PBS - 90+%

I have no signal dropouts for these 3 stations.

Up unitil last week I could not receive FOX (WTAT) or the local ABC Station. I then started to receive FOX (60%) and ABC (80%) with some but very few dropouts.

Now (this week) I am back to not receiving FOX, and ABC signal is still there but with many drop-outs.

It is my understanding that WTAT is still transmitting a low power signal and thier full-power tansmissions are still a few months away from reality.

Is my understanding on this Correct?

I also do not receive 36UPN.

I too have thought about purchasing a Pre-Amp and a Rotor, but I am not sure the pre-amp will help that much. The CM 7577 Pre-Amp is rated best at 26 db and only 2db noise floor. I do not need a pre-amp for other currently received stations.

I may opt for a Rotor, but I will wait and see if/when WTAT goes full-power.

You can pick up a CM Rotor at Lowes (for about $100.) and try it to see if it helps. If not, return it.

Does anyone know when WTAT will be at full-power?

These folks do not answer messages.

Thanks!

Frow what I've heard NBC won't have a transmitter until about June. Their tower is supposed to be ready for the new transmitters now, but of course they didn't order a transmitter until the tower was ready and the transmitters have a one year lead time. I can only assume WTAT won't be ready at the tower until after NBC, but this is only an assumption. For now I believe that they are still at low power from Arco Lane. I have always had my antenna aimed the same direction for the strongest signal so I doubt they've moved. And since my signal strength has not changed much in the last year or so, I would also assume they are still broadcasting with about as much power as most CB radios!

Can anyone recommend a good (read: affordable) antenna installer? I think it might be easier if I pay someone to climb up on my chimney and insert a pre-amp and/or rotor.

I've done my own installing so I'm no help with this.

LuvThat...huge help and info. What was the installation time (approx) with these various trials? Did you have someone inside relaying PQ info, or were you simply going based on exact angles/degrees? I ask because while I am not "afraid" to get on my fairly average-pitched roof, I am not hugely comfortable as someone who would do this on a regualr basis. And as for the amp/pre-amp,is it simply attached in-line to the existing mast, or will I have to uninstall the existing antenna and attah the device, then re-install the antenna? Ditto for the rotator...

I have to say that I have now spent close to an hour Googling for an antenna installer in the Chas. area, and can't find anything other than STEALTH, which is a company that conceals antennas with things like silos and flagpoles. Or the other end of the spectrum, I could call someone to install a 700' broadcast tower, but I think my homeowner's assoc. would frown on that.

There has got to be someone out there who knows someone who is willing (and experienced) to climb up on my roof to enhance my OTA signal. It would be nice if sites such as ChannelMaster's website would include an "Authorized Retailer/Installer" page.

On a side note, just about Google result included a link to this forum...

I have to say that I have now spent close to an hour Googling for an antenna installer in the Chas. area, and can't find anything other than STEALTH, which is a company that conceals antennas with things like silos and flagpoles. Or the other end of the spectrum, I could call someone to install a 700' broadcast tower, but I think my homeowner's assoc. would frown on that.

There has got to be someone out there who knows someone who is willing (and experienced) to climb up on my roof to enhance my OTA signal. It would be nice if sites such as ChannelMaster's website would include an "Authorized Retailer/Installer" page.

On a side note, just about Google result included a link to this forum...

I would think that just about ANY satellite installer would be willing to make a few bucks on the side by installing an antenna to your chimney.

Good suggestion...The antenna antenna is already up there. I just need a rotator/pre-amp solution added. I have the suggestions for getting the supplies at Lowes, RS, etc. I am just looking for the labor. I will begin calling around tomorrow, but would appreciate a direct hit before wasting phone time.

LuvThat...huge help and info. What was the installation time (approx) with these various trials? Did you have someone inside relaying PQ info, or were you simply going based on exact angles/degrees? I ask because while I am not "afraid" to get on my fairly average-pitched roof, I am not hugely comfortable as someone who would do this on a regualr basis. And as for the amp/pre-amp,is it simply attached in-line to the existing mast, or will I have to uninstall the existing antenna and attah the device, then re-install the antenna? Ditto for the rotator...

atp,
I spent months playing with indoor antennas. Including remote controlled indoor antennas, the Silver Sensor, amplified rabbit ears and using a cable/tv amplifier with the non-amplified rabbit ears and silver sensor. I had the best luck with the Silver Sensor and my old Radio Shack cable/TV amplifier. But even with CBS I had occasional dropouts during storms and never received WTAT or UPN so I decided to try an outdoor antenna.
I used an old DirecTv bracket for a dish and mounted it to the top corner of my back porch. I first tried the Channel Master Stealth Antenna with the indoor amp and got good results with everything except Fox or UPN. I played with the Stealth for a couple of days and never got Fox. Also the stealth uses a circuit board and it obviously had a loose connection since I would lose all the channels occasionally after trying the aim it. (I didn't initially have a rotator)
I then tried the 150" Channel Master antenna with the rotator and the inside amp. I also never got Fox with this arrangement but I did get some signal from Fox with this setup. I saw the direction the antenna was aimed when I got some signal so I decided I needed to move the antenna. Instead of moving the 150" antenna I had my wife return it since it was way too big. She then picked up the 50" RS antenna with their 30dB amp/pre-amp. I installed this antenna on the other corner of the porch and installed the amp/pre-amp. I then could almost always get Fox and about 30 -50% of the time get UPN. NBC became more finicky since I was now aimed through the house for NBC but all the other channels are all at good signal strength.
Of course the Tivo does has issues with this setup. I can only assume it's due to multi-path since I'm aimed between two buildings. But my other tuners work fine with this setup.
My setup has the rotator attached to the DirecTv bracket and then a 5' pole attached to the rotator. The antenna mounts on this pole. The amp has a c-clamp that also mounts on this pole, about 1 foot below the antenna. The downlead connects to a balun which connects to the amp with a short piece of RG-6 coax.
You can get away with attaching the amp to the antenna without moving the antenna, but the antenna needs to be moved to install the rotator.
As far as adjustments go. Before the rotator I used my wife and the built-in signal meter on my Sony Sat HD-200 and walkie talkies to adjust the antenna. After the rotator I just used the rotator's remote.
Good luck

atp,
I spent months playing with indoor antennas. Including remote controlled indoor antennas, the Silver Sensor, amplified rabbit ears and using a cable/tv amplifier with the non-amplified rabbit ears and silver sensor. I had the best luck with the Silver Sensor and my old Radio Shack cable/TV amplifier. But even with CBS I had occasional dropouts during storms and never received WTAT or UPN so I decided to try an outdoor antenna.
I used an old DirecTv bracket for a dish and mounted it to the top corner of my back porch. I first tried the Channel Master Stealth Antenna with the indoor amp and got good results with everything except Fox or UPN. I played with the Stealth for a couple of days and never got Fox. Also the stealth uses a circuit board and it obviously had a loose connection since I would lose all the channels occasionally after trying the aim it. (I didn't initially have a rotator)
I then tried the 150" Channel Master antenna with the rotator and the inside amp. I also never got Fox with this arrangement but I did get some signal from Fox with this setup. I saw the direction the antenna was aimed when I got some signal so I decided I needed to move the antenna. Instead of moving the 150" antenna I had my wife return it since it was way too big. She then picked up the 50" RS antenna with their 30dB amp/pre-amp. I installed this antenna on the other corner of the porch and installed the amp/pre-amp. I then could almost always get Fox and about 30 -50% of the time get UPN. NBC became more finicky since I was now aimed through the house for NBC but all the other channels are all at good signal strength.
Of course the Tivo does has issues with this setup. I can only assume it's due to multi-path since I'm aimed between two buildings. But my other tuners work fine with this setup.
My setup has the rotator attached to the DirecTv bracket and then a 5' pole attached to the rotator. The antenna mounts on this pole. The amp has a c-clamp that also mounts on this pole, about 1 foot below the antenna. The downlead connects to a balun which connects to the amp with a short piece of RG-6 coax.
You can get away with attaching the amp to the antenna without moving the antenna, but the antenna needs to be moved to install the rotator.
As far as adjustments go. Before the rotator I used my wife and the built-in signal meter on my Sony Sat HD-200 and walkie talkies to adjust the antenna. After the rotator I just used the rotator's remote.
Good luck


LuvThat - Thanks...will keep people posted on my trials and tribulations.

Everyone else - Please feel free to post any additional info regarding installers/suggestions.

Everyone else - Please feel free to post any additional info regarding installers/suggestions.

PM sent with an installer suggestion.

LuvthatHDTV all the ant. you tried were UHF/VHF. Have you tried any UHF only ant.
I know down here the little R/S 2160 ($25) works better than the BIG VU190 on DTV stations.
Same with CM 4228

LuvthatHDTV all the ant. you tried were UHF/VHF. Have you tried any UHF only ant.
I know down here the little R/S 2160 ($25) works better than the BIG VU190 on DTV stations.
Same with CM 4228

So does this mean that you have two separate antennas? Or does this attach to the VHF elements?

All the DTV stations are UHF and no need for a VHF ant.

Okay...good point
Sorry, had a brain freeze.

So does this one UHF antenna gather from a wide range or is it pretty much a "spot on" function?

Obviously from Beaufort all of Charleston's stations are going to come from a tight range to begin with...

Any ant that picks up signal over a wide range will not work good at long distance or have much gain. Just like a rifle and shot gun, a shot gun will cover a big area but only for a short range. A rifle must point at target but has long range.

LuvthatHDTV all the ant. you tried were UHF/VHF. Have you tried any UHF only ant.
I know down here the little R/S 2160 ($25) works better than the BIG VU190 on DTV stations.
Same with CM 4228

oljim,
As a matter of fact, I went to Radio Shack today and bought the UHF only antenna. I got tired of NBC dropping out occasionally and thought it might help with Fox. I just installed it and low-and-behold I now get Fox and UPN about 65-70% and I even have one position where I get all stations at the same time. :)
I originally got the VHF/UHF combo antenna since I occasionally had to watch analog TV. But since all stations are usually broadcasting a DTV signal I tried the UHF only antenna. ( as oljim and Precision Power and others have suggested)
Hopefully this is the last of my sagas...thanks to everyone for their help with my OTA woes. :D

And is it an indoor or outdoor antenna?

And is it an indoor or outdoor antenna?

40" Boom Length, 17 Elements Outdoor Antenna for UHF-Only (Channels 14-69)
$24.99
Catalog #: 15-2160

You can check online at radioshack.com for stores that stock it. The Mount Pleasant store was out, so I got mine at Aviation Square (where Sam's Club used to be)

thanks

Good evening, I have just joined and am looking forward to helping and learning with you for better free T.V. for all...

I have sent many e mails to FOX regarding its signal upgrade and have a short response I will share with you. I wish it was more...

"We are still in the process of working on that and unfortunately I do not have an exact date as of yet."

I have just installed a quick setup just to see what reception is in my neck of the woods. It is a RCA indoor vhf/uhf table top set with an adjustable gain amp. I currently have the amp in the attic of my two-story home. I am using a Samsung tuner connected with a DVI cable. With some adjustments I have just been able to receive CBS, NBC, ABC, ETV /PBS. I have never seen FOX/UPN. NBC is my trouble child only during heavy rain.

I have been pro active in getting answers regarding fox because it’s not worth the time and money to upgrade my setup if they are going high power soon. But from what I here from you all, is it may be a year. Is that right??? Does anyone have solid info on when it’s coming???

I live near 17 North + 41 in Mount Pleasant. I am willing to upgrade my setup if it’s going to take a long time for FOX to get it together. I am reluctant to do so till I get some sort of clue. The answer they gave me is poor at best to shed any light on the dilemma. Does anyone have any current news on upgrades of power?

Thank you for all the info. :)

Sincerely,
Rich

Good evening, I have just joined and am looking forward to helping and learning with you for better free T.V. for all...
...
Thank you for all the info. :)

Sincerely,
Rich

First of all, welcome to the group. I am sure you will find many strong opinions on what you can/should do to improve your reception. But DO NOT hold your breath waiting for FOX to do anything for the genral public, especially free OTA folks...there's just no money in it for them.

Secondly, I think I am not alone in this one...an outdoor antenna will get you much better results than will a table-top unit. Just my 2-cents. I am in Goose Creek and get solid signals from everyone but FOX,and I am <10 miles from their tower. I have a ChannelMaster 3018 with no amp's. Like everyone else, I am always trying different things to get FOX added to my available channels.

Finally, I subscribe to D* and get my locals in SD that way (as a back-up). They are beginning to offer LIL HD to 12 markets at-a-time working down the DMA list. Since Charleston is somewhere around 120th, it will be the 10th or 11th cluster to go live. I am keeping my money on D* coming through before FOX is up to full power on their tower space in Awendaw.

So kick back, crack open a cold one, and enjoy the discussions! :)

I have always had the outdoor in the plan. I just wasn’t sure just which one would give the best results. I am one to plan for a rainy day (literally) If the rain is sheeting outside, I don’t want any problems on the screen. The better the signal now... I have already ran an additional coaxial for that purpose. I have had thoughts of getting a long range very directional setup with a rotor to see if places out farther would come in, but then the thought of just getting another NBC feed that I already get is not so appealing. So what to do.... The question for me is should I leave FOX alone? Or get a semi directional antenna to reach them, but then what happens to all the others.... I could do a rotor, but should I hassle with it first??? I shouldn’t need it for more than a year....

I do know that I get a better picture from OTA then from any HD provider. Others have to pay more for sending the full signal... BTW, I am a Comcast customer, Just too cheap to pay them for channels that should be free….

free4me If you want to save time and money, forget about indoor ant, wingthings and so called HD ant. and attics.
If you want ALL the stations go get a CM 9521 rotor and a R/S 2160 UHF ant ($25).
Now you can move ant for best signal for each station and maybe find a spot where they all come in.
If the R/S 2160 does not get them all, move up to the CM 4228.
Both ants are UHF, all DTV stations are UHF.
A small UHF ant will outperform a large UHF/VHF

I do know that I get a better picture from OTA then from any HD provider. Others have to pay more for sending the full signal... BTW, I am a Comcast customer, Just too cheap to pay them for channels that should be free….

Just to clarify, we do not charge anything for OTA HD channels. A High Definition converter box is needed for HDTVs that do no have a built in tuner, which is a monthly rental of $5.00 but you are not exactly paying for the HD channels. If you have a built in HD tuner, then the set top box isn't even needed.

I do know that I get a better picture from OTA then from any HD provider.

Most cable HD is virtually a full bandwidth signal. How does it get any better than that?

Others have to pay more for sending the full signal...

I don't quite understand this. Who is "Others" and what full signal are you referring to?

free4me If you want to save time and money, forget about indoor ant, wingthings and so called HD ant. and attics.
If you want ALL the stations go get a CM 9521 rotor and a R/S 2160 UHF ant ($25).
Now you can move ant for best signal for each station and maybe find a spot where they all come in.
If the R/S 2160 does not get them all, move up to the CM 4228.
Both ants are UHF, all DTV stations are UHF.
A small UHF ant will outperform a large UHF/VHF

After much troubleshooting, I second that motion!!!

Most cable HD is virtually a full bandwidth signal. How does it get any better than that?



I don't quite understand this. Who is "Others" and what full signal are you referring to?


Notice the cable guy didnt address this issue. He clarified the fees regarding HD, but didnt touch the signal comment.... :rolleyes: I rest my case.... :)

Just to clarify, we do not charge anything for OTA HD channels. A High Definition converter box is needed for HDTVs that do no have a built in tuner, which is a monthly rental of $5.00 but you are not exactly paying for the HD channels. If you have a built in HD tuner, then the set top box isn't even needed.
Your telling me that to receive DISC, ESPN,TNT in HD all you do is to feed it into the tuner??? its included with standard service???? No extra fees???

Notice the cable guy didnt address this issue. He clarified the fees regarding HD, but didnt touch the signal comment.... :rolleyes: I rest my case.... :)
He did not need to. Do the research.

Your telling me that to receive DISC, ESPN,TNT in HD all you do is to feed it into the tuner??? its included with standard service???? No extra fees???
Incorrect. Do the research.

I use a UHF outdoor antenna from Radio Shack for about $25 and can get all local HD OTA here in Goose Creek. It is a UHF only antenna and worked much better than my larger outdoor antenna. It is only about three feet off the ground and hidden behind a bush for aesthetics, I could probably get better if I got it farther off the ground. I found that a FM trap is a must and an amp helps out. I also get Comcast HD (8300) and I can't personally tell the difference. I do not know if they use full bandwidth, but I think what really matters is what the picture looks like.

Notice the cable guy didnt address this issue. He clarified the fees regarding HD, but didnt touch the signal comment.... :rolleyes: I rest my case.... :)

free4me,

I don't do cable, but I think I know how it's usually done. I believe the cable companies usually pass along the full bandwidth signal that we OTA users receive. They may not pass along the extra channels (i.e. the weather feeds from CBS and NBC, 5-2 and 2-2), but I think they generally pass along the main signal unaltered, uncompressed and unencrypted. Therefore a standard ATSC tuner that can handle cable signals (QAM I believe) should be able to decode these MPEG-2 streams.
As "the cable guy" fbtcu said, "A High Definition converter box is needed for HDTVs that do not have a built in tuner, which is a monthly rental of $5.00"; so it sounds like you can rent an HD tuner for $5.00 a month. Or you can buy an ATSC tuner for $200 or maybe less.
Obviously you have to subscribe to cable to get these signals into the house, but it sounds like they don't charge extra for the local HD signals. (unless of course they have rate hikes due to Sinclair and others wanting $0.50 per user per month for the right to carry the HD signals)
DirecTV does charge extra for local channels (and eventually HD local channels), but their HD boxes have ATSC tuners to receive OTA signals. Of course you have to buy the D* equipment or sign at least a one year agreement to get the equipment cheaper/free. Plus you have to go through the headache of getting the right antenna, rotator and amp. Or wait until all the channels are broadcasting from Awendaw

free4me,

I don't do cable, but I think I know how it's usually done. I believe the cable companies usually pass along the full bandwidth signal that we OTA users receive. They may not pass along the extra channels (i.e. the weather feeds from CBS and NBC, 5-2 and 2-2), but I think they generally pass along the main signal unaltered, uncompressed and unencrypted. Therefore a standard ATSC tuner that can handle cable signals (QAM I believe) should be able to decode these MPEG-2 streams.
As "the cable guy" fbtcu said, "A High Definition converter box is needed for HDTVs that do not have a built in tuner, which is a monthly rental of $5.00"; so it sounds like you can rent an HD tuner for $5.00 a month. Or you can buy an ATSC tuner for $200 or maybe less.

First, I don’t want to give you the wrong impression. I appreciate your info regarding this topic. It was a loaded question. I already subscribe to cable, dish and receive all but FOX. OTA. I don’t think its worth the extra $ to any of them for their HD packages. I have spoken with Comcast; they have said I need the box. (I have already tried feeding it to the tuner (ATSC) and it wont give you squat.) I was looking for him to clarify his reply....

As for the signal question, ALL companies will (and do)shave what they can off the quality of signal to the point of what they think the normal viewer would not notice. Trust me when I say, The reason the OTA signals are better is they cant even use the allowed bandwidth they are paying for already. The "others" have to pay more for each bit of bandwidth they send. Or they save more space for your precious "on demand" and other extras....

Most OTA have sub channels stealing the bandwidth. All of this is discussed extensively in the HDTV Programming forum where you will find many people complaining about their OTA HD signal if they are lucky enough to get one at all. Trust you? I trust the engineers and broadcast pros posting in that forum.

The sub channels are not stealing the HD bandwidth. The only sub channels I've seen offered by the networks is the weather radar which only uses a minute amount of space.

I'm in Mount Pleasant and receive NBC, ABS, CBS and PBS on an antenna mounted in the attic. I pick up Fox (64%) with a Silver Sensor indoor (I gave up on UPN but who cares anyway). My picture is perfect on HD and the SD content broadcast on the HD channels looks great too.

I doubt there is any outift sending a 100% uncompressed signal anywhere. As for the locals here, any compressing they do has not gone to a point of noticable decrease in PQ. Lets not forget that STB's and tv's play a big role in PQ as well.

Trust Noone!!

I use a UHF outdoor antenna from Radio Shack for about $25 and can get all local HD OTA here in Goose Creek. It is a UHF only antenna and worked much better than my larger outdoor antenna. It is only about three feet off the ground and hidden behind a bush for aesthetics, I could probably get better if I got it farther off the ground. I found that a FM trap is a must and an amp helps out. I also get Comcast HD (8300) and I can't personally tell the difference. I do not know if they use full bandwidth, but I think what really matters is what the picture looks like.

I am also in the Creek...do you get ALL channels with the antenna scrapping the ground? Mine (currently UHF/VHF CM3018) is on my chimney so I wouldimagine I would get slightly better reception, but would like to know your signal strength for curiosity's sake.

Am I wrong in thinking that our local PBS runs 3 seperate HD signals? Does this not run the bandwidth thin?

First, I don’t want to give you the wrong impression. I appreciate your info regarding this topic. It was a loaded question. I already subscribe to cable, dish and receive all but FOX. OTA. I don’t think its worth the extra $ to any of them for their HD packages. I have spoken with Comcast; they have said I need the box. (I have already tried feeding it to the tuner (ATSC) and it wont give you squat.) I was looking for him to clarify his reply....

As for the signal question, ALL companies will (and do)shave what they can off the quality of signal to the point of what they think the normal viewer would not notice. Trust me when I say, The reason the OTA signals are better is they cant even use the allowed bandwidth they are paying for already. The "others" have to pay more for each bit of bandwidth they send. Or they save more space for your precious "on demand" and other extras....

free4me, I would check over in the programming forum before stating that the cable companies are shaving or compressing an OTA signal prior to resenting it. It has been stated by many experts that some companies (and Comcast is one) retransmit the signal as received, except for converting to the digital cable format. I can't remember the acronym but digital cable signals are a format that is not the same as OTA digital channels. This is why all OTA tuners will not decode the cable HD channels. You need either a digital cable converter built into your TV or the decoder box from the cable company.

Frank had stated that you can receive the OTA HD signals via cable with a built-in TV decoder. Most TVs don't have them, but some do. What may be unclear, is that you won't get all the HD stations with an built-in tuner, because the cable companies encrypt their digitals signals. However, I have read on the programming forum, the cable companies can't encrypt the retransmitted OTA channels.

AndrewG

DirecTV does charge extra for local channels (and eventually HD local channels), but their HD boxes have ATSC tuners to receive OTA signals. Of course you have to buy the D* equipment or sign at least a one year agreement to get the equipment cheaper/free. Plus you have to go through the headache of getting the right antenna, rotator and amp. Or wait until all the channels are broadcasting from Awendaw

LuvThat...D* does NOT charge for the local channels, with a year's subscription/contract. In my case this was overridden by my 2-year commitment for getting the HD Tivo for $199. Maybe a technicality, but still it's free without monthly payment.

Am I wrong in thinking that our local PBS runs 3 seperate HD signals? Does this not run the bandwidth thin?

7.1 = Standard ETV Programming SD
7.2 = South Carolina Channel SD
7.3 = High Definition Programming

So only one HD channel and 2 SD

Am I wrong in thinking that our local PBS runs 3 seperate HD signals? Does this not run the bandwidth thin?

It definitely does affect the bandwidth. You can see it in both OTA and the Comcast signal on the HD signal, it frequently blocks up and pixalates with fast motion. I think PBS gets away with it because they are not a commercial venture but are trying to provide as much different programming as possible, note that the HD is not a duplication of the SD station. This has been discussed in the programming forum, and apparently is somewhat common with PBS stations around the country.

But it should be a warning as what could happen with multicasting. From what I understand and has been described by Eldon at WCSC, the radar station (5-2) uses almost no bandwidth at all, but they even turned that off during the Superbowl a few years ago.

I noticed the pixalating on PBS as well, formerly with TWC and now with Knology.

The PBS HD PQ does fall apart frequently, but the content usually outweighs the PQ. Also, I was just watching a HD Content Delivery forum on HDNet and they used an example of a PBS station (in Denver, I think) that was multi-casting FOUR streams/channels, and if memory serves, non of them were in HD. But can you imagine how horrible that PQ would be against three other SD feeds?

free4me, This is why all OTA tuners will not decode the cable HD channels. You need either a digital cable converter built into your TV or the decoder box from the cable company.

Frank had stated that you can receive the OTA HD signals via cable with a built-in TV decoder. Most TVs don't have them, but some do. What may be unclear, is that you won't get all the HD stations with an built-in tuner, because the cable companies encrypt their digitals signals. However, I have read on the programming forum, the cable companies can't encrypt the retransmitted OTA channels.

AndrewG
This is the question I was asking. What makes a HD tuner- Cable ready??? besides the optional card for pay channels. And if they rent them, Who sells them. I dont rent..... EVER!!!

So we are all up to speed........

Taken from HDTVPrimer.com

Bandwidth

(The term “bandwidth” means “minimum required channel size”. Thus if a random binary data stream is fed through a 2 MHz-wide channel, and if that channel could handle twice that much data, then the bandwidth of that data stream is said to be 1 MHz.)

The bandwidth for NTSC is always 6 MHz. Without data compression, the bandwidth for 1080i would be 300 MHz. With MPEG-2 data compression the bandwidth varies according to how fast the image changes. For 480i the bandwidth rarely goes above 1 MHz. For 1080i and 720p the bandwidth rarely goes above 3 MHz.

Thus it is possible to put six 480i programs or two 1080i programs in a 6 MHz channel. The FCC allows this. Thus terrestrial DTV stations have sub-channels. It is up to the station managers how many sub-channels to have and what programming will air on those sub-channels. Note that a sub-channel showing a static image (e.g. a weather map or bulletin board) requires almost no bandwidth despite being at high resolution.

ATSC is an imperfect standard in that occasionally the bandwidth requirement will exceed the channel size. When this happens, the picture can get coarse or jumpy as frames are deleted. A more graceful failure should be possible since that bandwidth exceeds what the human mind can absorb. Hopefully in the future, compression schemes will be developed that fail in an unnoticeable manner.

I have not noticed pixaltion or other problems listed with PBS but I will be watching a little closer now.....

Of course if I see it now I will have to quit this forum for ruining what I thought was a good picture :)

This is the question I was asking. What makes a HD tuner- Cable ready??? besides the optional card for pay channels. And if they rent them, Who sells them. I dont rent..... EVER!!!

I am pretty sure that cable companies will not allow you to buy a box from the manufacturer, so they always rent those. So that covers that, if you don't rent.

That said, I know there are some HD tuners that have both OTA (8VSB, is the modulation mode I think) and cable (QAM is the modulation mode for cable) tuners, but these would only work on unencrypted (free to air) signals, so they would never decode ESPN, DiscoveryHD, TNTHD, etc., anything Comcast/TWC/Knology would encrypt.

My Toshiba set has a built-in 8VSB and QAM HD tuners so it can tune both OTA and cable (unencrypted) digital signals. So that is how I know it can work.

I am sure that Frank or Diana can input more here than I can regarding accessiblity to digital cable boxes, but I can't imagine it would be cost effective to own one, when they cost $5 / month to rent.

Hope that helps,

AndrewG

ALL companies will (and do)shave what they can off the quality of signal to the point of what they think the normal viewer would not notice. The "others" have to pay more for each bit of bandwidth they send. Or they save more space for your precious "on demand" and other extras....


Alright - I try to stay out of these because my statements as a cable representative are always viewed with skeptism and tend to simply enflame some posters who just want to cable bash (plus he's in Franks area, so I was just letting him take the heat - sorry Frank) .... but here's my series of two cents.



TWC DOES NOT EVER shave anything off HD Signals - we pass them to you as we get them. We sign a deal with broadcasters for 19.8 bitrate and if they choose to use that entire amount for HD, you get the best picture, if they don't you don't.


"Trust me when I say, The reason the OTA signals are better is they cant even use the allowed bandwidth they are paying for already. "


WHAT? Tell me what Bandwidth Broadcasters are paying for - your Federal Government gave them the rights to Bandwidth for FREE! and now they don't want to give it back so that the nation can transition to Digital Broadcasting?????

"The "others" have to pay more for each bit of bandwidth they send."

WHAT OTHERS? who is paying for HD carriage?

"save more space for your precious "on demand" and other extras...."

On Demand is a stream. The amount of space it takes up would allow us to launch 'maybe' one more HD channel via standard technology, AND is allowing TWC to launch Digital Simulcast and Switched Digital Video in South Carolina this year.

This is the question I was asking. What makes a HD tuner- Cable ready??? besides the optional card for pay channels. And if they rent them, Who sells them. I dont rent..... EVER!!!


This is going to require technology built into the converter that will make stealing signals bulletproof - were not even close, without making the cost of the converter go through the roof.

But, hey, you want to buy, I don't care - I'm happy to provide you the equipment HOWEVER you want it, so as soon as the Studios feel warm and fuzzy about the deal, I'm ready to go!



Now, in my own experience I have had an SA 3100, 3250, 8000 and 8300 in about 34 months. Lets say I paid $500 each - wouldn't have been that cheap, but lets just say - $2000 in 34 months. In the same time with TWC converters I have paid $427.40.... so the first converter isn't even paid for yet and I've already had 3 free upgrades..... Personally this makes more economic sense to me.

I am pretty sure that cable companies will not allow you to buy a box from the manufacturer, so they always rent those. So that covers that, if you don't rent.

That said, I know there are some HD tuners that have both OTA (8VSB, is the modulation mode I think) and cable (QAM is the modulation mode for cable) tuners, but these would only work on unencrypted (free to air) signals, so they would never decode ESPN, DiscoveryHD, TNTHD, etc., anything Comcast/TWC/Knology would encrypt.

My Toshiba set has a built-in 8VSB and QAM HD tuners so it can tune both OTA and cable (unencrypted) digital signals. So that is how I know it can work.
AndrewG


Andrew - you are absolutely correct. With TWC all 'unscrambled' HD signals are available through a built in QAM tuner in the TV which includes broadcasters, Discovery HD Theater, TNT HD and our special events channels.

One minor correction though - as I stated above, we don't 'allow' converters to be purchased yet because the technology isn't to the point that our programming partners (read very powerful studios) are comfortable that it will restrict theft of service.

Wow! Lots of posts the past couple of days, makes for some good reading! My UHF antenna is hooked up to a Samsung SIR-451. The antenna is not grounded, the cable runs straight to an amp, to a FM trap to the tunner. I get CBS and PBS at near 100%. ABC about 80%. Fox and NBC require me to move the antenna (in other words, I don't get either NBC or FOX without moving the antnna). NBC about 70-80% and FOX 60-70%, just enough to get FOX without dropout). Of course, if it is raining hard or if Pluto is aligned with Jupiter I will loose NBC and FOX. The SIR-51 has a built in QAM and I was able to get Comcast local HD this evening with no problem. I agree with Diana in that I can not tell the difference between OTA and cable HD. I hope this helps....

To further clarify HD service options:

Local HD channels WTAT, WCIV, WCSC, and WITV are included with ANY level of video subscription. It does require an HD tuner to view them however. We make a HDTV converter box available for customers that do not have a tuner of their own. This is NOT a subscription charge, it is an equipment rental fee.

Satellite delivered HD channels, Discover, ESPN, TNT, Braves HD, iNHD 1&2 are INCLUDED as part of our overall Digital Service for $14.95. You are not paying just for the HD channels, but all the digital channels, parental controls, ON DEMAND access, etc. They are just included in the package.

Premium HD channels, HBO, Showtime, Cinemax and Starz are INCLUDED as part of that subscription to the premium channel. There is no extra charge for HBO HD if you already subscribe to HBO.

So to answer your question....We do not charge extra for any HD channel. The level of HD service you receive is completely based on your level of video service.

To further clarify HD service options:

Local HD channels WTAT, WCIV, WCSC, and WITV are included with ANY level of video subscription. It does require an HD tuner to view them however. We make a HDTV converter box available for customers that do not have a tuner of their own. This is NOT a subscription charge, it is an equipment rental fee.


Thank you for your response. I am frustrated that everyone puts out this information without checking. You say, ALL you need is a tuner (ATSC). Well, that’s not the whole truth. It also needs to have QAM. This is just one more part of the truth. I have a tuner which is both. Guess what, They don’t tune in but two channels which wont even come in all the way. They are scattered like no other. This is frustrating, because FCC rules say we should be able to get them without all the other crap that gets done to it. I know its not scrambled, but if they would have set a standard for QAM. I wouldn’t be having this problem. OH, but now I have to rent a box.... great, that’s so classy sitting under a $3500 plasma.... OH wait there is more.... I get a new remote for my collection... WOW.... where do I sign??? Great planning ppl.... Its not like this in the rest of the world. Its all tied up with $$$$$$ and monopolies here. Other countries have been doing this for years with no problem.



The tuners are in the TVs because of the government, what they don’t tell you is they wont work anyways... I’m not sure who to blame. Who’s to blame for some TVS not working on your system like the government planned? Whose idea was it to incorporate such things as QAM??? Who are you protecting??? Your telling me that QAM is not a method that "changes the signal they send you" I thought you just said, "You send it as it comes?" Please explain why my tuner is not working...

TWC DOES NOT EVER shave anything off HD Signals - we pass them to you as we get them. We sign a deal with broadcasters for 19.8 bitrate and if they choose to use that entire amount for HD, you get the best picture, if they don't you don't.





Should I call the networks to have them remove the QAM part??? Im sorry, does this method help my signal??

I'm not sure why blame needs to be assigned - there are a lot of players in the CE game who have a lot of smart people devoted to growing and developing the technology around the electronic entertainment industry. Given the amount of energy put into making it work, it seems counterintuitive to suspect that some players would be spending time to make it not work.

And I'm very confused as to your protection statement.

Finally, yes, QAM is not a method that changes the signal they send.

Perhaps you should have a professional service technican come and check your system for any issues with your television or your home set up. This would certainly go a long way in determining what your specific issue might be.

I'm not sure why blame needs to be assigned - there are a lot of players in the CE game who have a lot of smart people devoted to growing and developing the technology around the electronic entertainment industry. Given the amount of energy put into making it work, it seems counterintuitive to suspect that some players would be spending time to make it not work.

And I'm very confused as to your protection statement.

Finally, yes, QAM is not a method that changes the signal they send.

Perhaps you should have a professional service technican come and check your system for any issues with your television or your home set up. This would certainly go a long way in determining what your specific issue might be.

The protection statement pertains to the question of why do you need QAM? To save space? Or to protect you from theft???

OH, but now I have to rent a box.... great, that’s so classy sitting under a $3500 plasma.... OH wait there is more.... I get a new remote for my collection... WOW....

While I like sarcasm as much as the next guy, it doesn't work here. You are obviously not opposed to spending money on your system. If you are concerned about how a cable company-supplied converter box looks, maybe you could spend a little bit and make a media cabinet/closet where you could store and "hide" all of those pieces of equipment that embaraas you. Also, as far as the "new remote for your collection", I have a simple answer for you: Home Theater Master MX-500 universal learning remote. This is the remote I favor, and it will handle everything and is completely flexible and will learn any signal you can give it. I used to have 6 remotes in the living room and 3 in the bedroom. This ONE remote has allowed me to store all of those unsightly remotes in a drawer somewhere out of sight.

And my final suggestion: Maybe cut down on the coffee intake there buddy. ;)

Perhaps you should have a professional service technican come and check your system for any issues with your television or your home set up. This would certainly go a long way in determining what your specific issue might be.


Im not the only one with this problem... Its not anything that a cable guy can fix. Its a problem of standards...

BTW. They already tried..... Go figure...

The protection statement pertains to the question of why do you need QAM? To save space? Or to protect you from theft???

Quadrature Amplitude Modulation - QAM - provides Digital Format. That's it, nothing else. Its the most common technology for providing Digital Signals - doesn't change the signal, simply allows you to view the Digital Channels.

Im not the only one with this problem... Its not anything that a cable guy can fix. Its a problem of standards...

BTW. They already tried..... Go figure...


I wasn't suggesting a Cable Technican for your issue. I was suggesting a CE specialist.

And, you are the first person I have heard of who has had issues with the QAM tuner picking up signals. I know of many, many TWC customer's without issue in this area.

Should I call the networks to have them remove the QAM part??? Im sorry, does this method help my signal??


QAM doesn't impact the signal as it is sent from the source - it is the technology that allows you to view the channel. I don't know how else to say it.

While I like sarcasm as much as the next guy, it doesn't work here. You are obviously not opposed to spending money on your system. If you are concerned about how a cable company-supplied converter box looks, maybe you could spend a little bit and make a media cabinet/closet where you could store and "hide" all of those pieces of equipment that embaraas you. Also, as far as the "new remote for your collection", I have a simple answer for you: Home Theater Master MX-500 universal learning remote. This is the remote I favor, and it will handle everything and is completely flexible and will learn any signal you can give it. I used to have 6 remotes in the living room and 3 in the bedroom. This ONE remote has allowed me to store all of those unsightly remotes in a drawer somewhere out of sight.

And my final suggestion: Maybe cut down on the coffee intake there buddy. ;)

I was speaking for the entire group of ppl who are in my boat. I do have the means to hide stuff. I guess my biggest gripe would be one more issue to mess up the features of the Plasma... PIP...etc...

And yes, the remote comment was sarcasm. I’m just letting it out... No offence meant...

I JUST WANT MY MTV!!! lol , you all remember that right???

Let’s change it to I WANT MY HDTV with two tuners in the TV, one remote. That my local cable company will come by one time and have no problems with the methods of transmission.

Thank you for your suggestions...

I was speaking for the entire group of ppl who are in my boat. I do have the means to hide stuff. I guess my biggest gripe would be one more issue to mess up the features of the Plasma... PIP...etc...

...

Let’s change it to I WANT MY HDTV with two tuners in the TV, one remote. That my local cable company will come by one time and have no problems with the methods of transmission.


If I recall correctly, even if your tv does not have PIP, the SA8300 does offer a PIP feature...you may want to check that out. And yes, we all want our HDTV!

free4me.... Both my TV and a seperate tunner (bought a year apart) have QAM. I have noticed that when I scan for in the clear HD on cable, the tunners will memorize many stations which are not available (premium stuff). I have to flip through all those stations to find the four HD stations. An earlier post has the channel and station lineup for Comcast QAM, I am sure that the information is available for all the other cable companies if you need. Also, on my older tunner, I had to make sure the settings were right so it would pick up the signal. I had Comcast install a Cable Card in my TV (technician worked on it for at least an hour), but it would not work. Lots of issues with Cable Cards that have to do with several different companies and compatability issues which cable companies are only a part of. I just got a 8300 a couple of days ago and am playing with the settings and HDMI output. I am finding that I am not getting as good of a picture with HDMI than I am with the Component Cables which was a bit of a suprise, but I am still working on it. Overall, though, I am very pleased with Comcast service and support here in Goose Creek.

A note about ATSC vs QAM...

I apologize up front if this is a bit technical, but the history behind these two modulation techniques is interesting and may help the above discussion a bit.

Over 20 years ago, the FCC started the process of setting a new over-the-air broadcast standard expressly intended to support digital (both std and hi-def) transmission from the TV station to the home. The new standard would replace the old National Television Standards Committee (NTSC) analog standard. It established the Advanced Television Standards Committee (ATSC) to spearhed that project. Eventually a private industry panel set up under ATSC called the Grand Alliance drafted a specific set of specifications derrived form several competing tecnnologies, but only after many years and exqiuisite agony in the industry. The 8VSB (vestigial sideband) method was proposd to the FCC and eventually selected as that standard for the US. It was deemed the best compromise to permit multiple picture formats to be carried over the air and still fit in the standand FCC-licensed channel, which is only 6 megahertz (MHz) wide. (For those of you in the industry, I know this is a gross oversimplification, but I think it conveys the gist of the process.)

In a parallel development, the cable television industry through its own research arm, Cable Labs in Colorado, began searching for a digital standard to meet its unique requirements. Eventually it was demonstrated that several flavors of Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM) were the best compromise for the "closed" environment of a CATV disrtibution plant. First, QAM offers the possibility of conditional access, which means there is a way to control viewing of premium content through encryption, yet allowing "open"access to unencrypted signals. Second, the more dense versions of QAM like 64QAM and 256QAM are very bandwidth-efficient, meaning more "channels" could be fit within the finite CATV plant capacity, typically ranging currently from about 550 to 1000 MHz. The ATSC payload of a little over 19 megabytes per second which takes up 6 MHz over the air can be transcoded (losslessly, by the way, i.e. totally transparently) to less than half that in a CATV QAM system. Finally, the the process of unbundling the 8VSB signal and recoding to QAM lets the CATV operator separate out channels if the source is multicasting, and select whether and how to pass on the additional sub-channels. (This is a sore subject between the broadcasters and cable system operators but perhaps better the subject for another post!)

Could the CATV system instead deliver the 8VSB signal direct? Yes, but it would waste precious bandwidth. Most new consumer receivers now include at least one tuner that is both ATSC (8VSB) and QAM capable, so the end user has the option of using it for either over-the-air or cable viewing. The only downside of using an inboard QAM tuner for CATV is that with the curent marketing system of extra-cost "tiers" for almost all channles, few sources are unencrypted, so as a practical matter you need to rent either a settop box (or a cablecard, if your receiver supports it) and pay for a higher tier to see more than the local OTA-HD and a few "freebies".

Hope that helps,

Mike

Can someone tell me where the comcast QAM lineup is on this forfum. I can't seem to find it.

Thank you Mike,

Very informative!! This brings me closer… the questions I have for anyone who has first hand knowledge is:

1. Is there a set top box that is available for purchase that has both DVI and Component outputs with a QAM tuner that works here in charleston? I don’t need/want the cable card. I don’t PPV…

2. So there are many versions of QAM?? And would this be the reason why my channels are not coming in all the way?

3. What are the channels so I may try to tune them in again? Or do they change depending on what brand of tuner???

4. What could be other reasons this tuner is not working?

Thanks for your help…. :)

These work for me on both my Samsung and my built in tunner.

77-3 PBS ETV SD
77-4 FOX WTAT HD
77-5 PBS ETV HD

116-1 ABC WCIV HD
116-2 CBS WCSC HD

I hope this helps. My Samsung SIR-451 has DVI and Component Video and it's QAM works with Comcast. The two downsides to this tunner is that it cannot recieve standard analog signals and it has a pretty weak remote control.

2. So there are many versions of QAM?? And would this be the reason why my channels are not coming in all the way?

I think if the tuner is QAM capable, it should decode all versions, but the manual should tell you more in the specifications. CATV is only using one or two, I think 64 and 256. We have a Pioneer with two inboard tuners. The first only demodulates analog NTSC but the second will do 8VSB, QAM, and QPSK too, which to my knowledge is not used in the US.

Can't say why you are not getting the results you expect, but as others have noted, there are hundreds of QAM signals on the CATV feed, of which maybe only 6 or 8 are "in the clear". So after doing a search function, you wind up with many many "blank" channels (those are the encrypted ones) to scan through until you find the ones that work. Not very user friendly!

Our Pioneer won't even let you enter these manually, the only way to find them is to scan, which takes 15-20 minutes, then go back and get rid of the unusable blank ones. In our case, since the Pioneer does support 4 banks of 10 favorites, I put the HD favorites under button A, the Weather subs (WIS and WCIV in our case) under button B, the PBS SD subs under button C, and the few other freebies I found under button D.

We also now have a SA8000HD stb from TWC which is the primary source now. But believe it or not there are times when its two tuners are grinding away recording shows to the HD that we use the Pioneer tuner(s) to watch a third show live.

This is an odd question in an effort to find a solution to my OTA problems with FOX...

Whenever you see a graphical disply of off air signal wavelengths, they are always vertical (up and down, peaks and valleys). If I mount my antenna at a 90-degree angle and point the elements of the UHF-end of the antenna (CM 3018/3020) directly at FOX (Arco Ln), will the now-vertical elements not catch the "vertical" waves of signals from the Awendaw or FOX towers? Do waves of energy really flow in an "up and down" wave form? Do the elements need to be horizontal to catch the waves of energy? Would turning the antenna sideways present three rows of elements and introduce ghosting/interference?

As you might be able to deduce, science was NEVER my strong point...just trying to think outside the box here... :p

Most television in the US is transmitted with "horizontal polarzation", which means the active elements of your receive antenna will usually work best oriented horizontally. Some stations use "circular polarization" in which case the emitted power is sort of a corkscrew, with equal energy in all planes. In this case the polarization of your receive antenna is not critical. (Circularly polarized TV receive antennas exist and can help in a strong multipath problem area, but they are kind of offbeat and hard to find at the consumer level.)

I don't know what type of polarization the various Charleston stations use (others may chime in), but you will probably find that the hardware and mounting system for all the common VHF/UHF or UHF only antennas are set up for horizontal use. Unless you have an odd multipath (ghost) situation between you and the transmitter, I doubt anything other than horizontal will be better. But as you have found out, experimentation doesn't hurt and you may find a unique solution that works better despite theories! Just be careful up there on the ladder...

Check this link, this guy really had some time on his hands, but he certainly went to the length. Down the page a little, there's a link to calculate your antenna tilt depending on your location from the broadcast towers. Good reading IMO, have it bookmarked and refer to it from time to time.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=546066


This one is dated , but has some links towards the bottom for various STB's.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=179095

NHL Games in HD from Outdoor Life Network.

Some of you have emailed me about potential NHL HD games coming from OLN - and I had absolutely no information to share on that point. I got my first info on it Friday afternoon - with the first game this Monday - wasn't that helpful!

Anyway, TWCSC will provide the following games to all HD subs free on Special Events Channel 814. {sometime Monday my webmaster will get the schedule on the consumer web site for future reference} This is only the schedule for October/November. They will send additional schedules as we get to those months.

All at 7:00 pm eastern

Mon 10/10 - Pittsburg at Buffalo
Mon 10/17 - Florida at NY
Mon 10/24 - Detroit at Columbus
Mon 10/31 - Montreal at NY
Tue 11/8 - Boston at Philadelphia
Wed 11/16 - Pittsburg at Philadelphia
Tue 11/22 - Tampa Bay at Philadelphia

Diana,

First of all I would like to compliment TWC on their coverage of HD channels, I am still saddened though that you do not have NBC or FOX on HD programming yet. What's the hold up, is Sinclair still fighting TWC on this. What do we as consumers have to do to get the networks/broadcasters to cooperate so we the consumer can have the best there is to offer?

Anyway, I do appreciate what I do get, my Dish network programming just wasn't cutting it after many years of very good service. I chose to go with TWC for the whole package, (phone, internet and cable). Overall I have been very satisfied.

For CBS though you guys aren't broadcasting CSI in DD 5.1 on Thursday nights, CSI: Miami and CSI: NY usually are. What gives?

Any info back from you would greatly be appreciated.

Thanks,

Scott Rothfusz

Thanks for the kind words and I'm very glad you are enjoying your VIP bundle.

Negotiations continue in good faith with both WCBD and WTAT. In both instances the Network owns a multitude of affiliates in several different TWC Divisions - so its much bigger than just TWC in SC and your local Charleston station - unfortunately.

As far as WCSC - we pass through the signal exactly how we get it. If a show is coming down in SD when it should be HD, then you need to contact the station to find out why.

Just got a JVC HD52G886.

Not having much lock with a philips OTA indoor antenna. I am in Crowfield Plantation in Goose Creek.

I stumbled upon this thread. I see mention that Comcast doesn't charge extra for OTA HD channels.

I currently have Comcast basic package. Non-digital. Only reason I have comcast has been for cable modem and when directv goes out because of weather.

I went to hook up my comcast line into my ATSC on the tv. Had it scan for channels.

It found a whole bunch of channels above 70. None of them display anything. Just blank.

Any hints on how to get this to work?

Just to mention, I am currently using diplexers to put the cable signal on the same cable as my directv signal.

Any ideas?

Does the JVC tuner demodulate QAM in addition to ATSC? (Check your manual in the specifications section.) If so you may be able to see the non-encrypted digital signals, but there will only be a few such as the OTA digitals among hundreds of "blank" channels which have been encrypted for "conditional access". You'd need Comcast's STB or a cable card, if your set supports it, along with the relevant subscription fee, to see those.

Don't think the diplexers would cause any problem, although they will knock the cable level down a few dB. If the analog channels below 70 are OK on the JVC, you probably have plenty of signal strength to see any "in-the-clear" QAM digital channels.

Kudos to WCBD News...tonight on the 6:00 news, they broadcast a timely story about ...wait for it, wait for it... satellite radio! Now that satellite radio has been commercially available and viable for several years, Channel 2 has decided that we the general public (read: apparently retarded and with our heads completely lodged in our collective a**es) should be informed of this alternate option to local terrestial radio.

Obviously this is must have been a VERY SLOW news day. :rolleyes:

Does the JVC tuner demodulate QAM in addition to ATSC? (Check your manual in the specifications section.) If so you may be able to see the non-encrypted digital signals, but there will only be a few such as the OTA digitals among hundreds of "blank" channels which have been encrypted for "conditional access". You'd need Comcast's STB or a cable card, if your set supports it, along with the relevant subscription fee, to see those.

Don't think the diplexers would cause any problem, although they will knock the cable level down a few dB. If the analog channels below 70 are OK on the JVC, you probably have plenty of signal strength to see any "in-the-clear" QAM digital channels.

Yeah the JVC supports QAM. Not sure what the problem is. It doesn't find any channels except higher level channels. A total of 200 channes/subchannels between 70-115.

All of them blank.

I removed the diplexer from the mix and it still doesn't work. I am also having trouble getting OTA with an antenna here in Goose Creek(using an outdoor antenna setup in my attic. I can successfully get PBS, CBS, ABC. That is it. I really want to get Fox and NBC would be nice.

I get more drop outs and pixelation with Comcast than I ever did using OTA on the local channels . I've called and complained several times and it's always the same thing , they want me to reboot the cable box . It seems like after 4 calls and this doesn't work something else would be done .

You can always swing by the Comcast office on 52 (next to Advance Auto Parts) and swap the box. There is no charge for that. If it continues to happen, demand (politely) that someone come out and test the signal on the line. You might have a bad drop or it could be in your house.

If they test it outside the house and the signal is solid and good, then issue is internal. But since the internal runs are generally short and well contained, if there is a problem, they might find it outside. You probably don't even have to be home to have them test the signal to the house.

I had problems like this and they ended up ahving to run new cable from the drop to my house and VOILA! The difference was night and day. Hopefully, this is all that is wrong with you.

Diplexers when used with DirecTV and OTA signals will cause the OTA signal to weaken.

Diplexers when used with DirecTV and OTA signals will cause the OTA signal to weaken.

If I even add another coax cable (short one) to my Silver Sensor I lose Fox.

When you say "Diplexer" do you mean a real Diplexer or a splitter
turned backwards?

Media General and COMCAST have reached an agreement for full carriage of their digital signal.

I received word via an executive at Media General via e-mail earlier this afternoon.

I don't know the exact date for when COMCAST plans to bring WCBD-DT on board. Frank might be able to shed some light on this.

Have a good night
Mark

Did anything ever come of this? Haven't heard or seen anymore on it.

-Brian

Jefrfr have them come out and check you signal strengh. I had the same problem and all it took was for them to replace the line coming to my house.

Did anything ever come of this? Haven't heard or seen anymore on it.

-Brian


Please stay tuned. We are still working out all the details before we can announce anything locally.

To get Fox or NBC OTA in Goose Creek, you will probably have to place your antenna outside. A neighbor had actually zip tied a Silver Sensor (without it's base) to an attic vent on his roof and was able to get all local HD OTA. He was in a two story house which is why I think it is so important to have good elevation. I have also found that you should minimize the connections you make between the antenna and the amp, a single cable straight to the amp works best. If that isn't enough, try an FM trap, it actually gives me about 5% more signal strength. Good luck!

One last part to my OTA epic.
Since I got the UHF only antenna from radio shack I haven't had one bit of trouble with Fox. I consistently get about 68% with Fox and UPN, even during rain and wind.
My problem has been NBC. Since I have to aim through my house to receive NBC I only get 70% and I get a lot of drop-outs . I made one change which had a big impact on Fox and NBC.
I had the cable coming in from the antenna going through a surge suppressor before going into the pre-amp. (I had it connected this way due to concerns about a nearby lightning strike). I now have the cable connected directly to the pre-amp and then the cable leaving the pre-amp goes through the surge suppressor and then to the Tivo and TV. This has given me about 85% on both NBC and Fox and UPN. ANd so far NBC hasn't dropped out completely yet . The signal jumps sometimes, but only down a few percent instead of to 0%.
I don't know if anyone else has their antenna connected this way, but if you do, a slight change might help

I can now get NBC, ABC, CBS, PBS at around 80-85 signal strength. I can also get fox at about a constant 65 signal strength. No UPN but I personally don't care.

I gave the silver sensor a try at the very top of my attic at the vent. It was the only place I could even get a signal from Fox. I have a one story house. I also have a radio shack amp hooked up that provides 30dB.

If I get any drop outs I might try a CM4228 in the same location with an amp. I am sure I could get even better reception that way.

One last part to my OTA epic.
Since I got the UHF only antenna from radio shack I haven't had one bit of trouble with Fox. I consistently get about 68% with Fox and UPN, even during rain and wind.
My problem has been NBC. Since I have to aim through my house to receive NBC I only get 70% and I get a lot of drop-outs . I made one change which had a big impact on Fox and NBC.
I had the cable coming in from the antenna going through a surge suppressor before going into the pre-amp. (I had it connected this way due to concerns about a nearby lightning strike). I now have the cable connected directly to the pre-amp and then the cable leaving the pre-amp goes through the surge suppressor and then to the Tivo and TV. This has given me about 85% on both NBC and Fox and UPN. ANd so far NBC hasn't dropped out completely yet . The signal jumps sometimes, but only down a few percent instead of to 0%.
I don't know if anyone else has their antenna connected this way, but if you do, a slight change might help

So you are willing to sacrifice the amp just so you can get FOX and NBC....seems like a good gamble ;)

Now that fall might finally be approaching, and the leaves are falling faster than I can rake them up, how much of an effect will this have my OTA reception? Do the leaf-filled trees really cause that much interference?

And now that the rain has finally stopped for a few days, maybe I can get up on my roof and replace the UHF/VHF antenna with a UHF-only and see what kind of a difference that makes. I will report any successes (or likely failures) as they happen. :rolleyes:

So you are willing to sacrifice the amp just so you can get FOX and NBC....seems like a good gamble ;)

Well if it makes the wife be happy, it's worth it. (Plus, if it gets hit, the part on the pole will be shot anyway!) :D

What is the highest recommended amp I get get off the shelf around here? Is it something from RS or Lowe's? Any recommendations from fellow Goose Creek readers would be great. I would like to go out and get one tonight or tomorrow if possible.

Leaves ...and especially wet ones cause a drop in reception. When I was on Johns Island, I noticed a great difference in reception once the leaves fell...i wonder if by any chance did cooler weather (less humidity) play a factor as well hmmm...

What is the highest recommended amp I get get off the shelf around here? Is it something from RS or Lowe's? Any recommendations from fellow Goose Creek readers would be great. I would like to go out and get one tonight or tomorrow if possible.
And is anyone using just an inside amp without a mast-mounted pre-amp? If so, which one(s) and what is the gain? Or should I just completely dump the idea of a non-preamp system altogether? Obviously, as one site I saw says, $ for $. You get what you pay for.

Can anyone suggest the best antenna for OTA on John's Island?

Yippee!! Without doing a thing, I am now watching the NLCS in HD! I actually went out this evening and bought an amp, but before I could plug it in, I checked the signal. Lo and behold, the game is on. I can't check the actual signal strenth since it is recording off the air until 11:00, but the signal is pretty good with just a little drop out here and there...audio is good...maybe it is the clear, crisp air and the lack of leaves. Right now, I don't care "why" just as long as I am getting my FOX signal. ;)

Can anyone suggest the best antenna for OTA on John's Island?

I don't know what the best antenna is for OTA, but from my experience a UHF only antenna seems to work best if you only care about local HD channels, since all are UHF. I currently use the RS Catalog #: 15-2160 which is supposed to be good for up to 75 miles. Also a lot of people recommend the CM 4228 which is supposed to have a 60 mile range.
These antennas are very directional and therefore you may need a rotator.

Oh well...must have been a fluke of the weather or the wind or something, because FOX went dead for me shortly after the game. Is it possible that they might be boosting their signal somehow for the game(s)?