I looked at your antenna guide. Great write-up.

Anyone ever find out what's up with the channel 5 audio volume on D*? Mine has been substantially lower and I have to turn up about 5-10 notches since locals went HD.

I've been checking my email updates from this site, but haven't seen anything.

I looked at your antenna guide. Great write-up.

Thanks. Its imperfect, but I hope its helped people. There is a dearth of information about indoor antennas.

EV Have you looked at the Eagle Aspen DTV-2 B-UHF Got one for my daughter in FL about 25 miles from stations and it was as good as the a ClearSteam -2 on UHF (no VHF stations) She sent the SC-2 back, the Eagle Aspen was only $15.
I have one up here and get all the Sav stations 41 miles and 2.1/2.2 and 24.1 from Charleston (71 miles) and it is only 15 ft off the ground.

Yeah, its in my guide somewhere. That is an Antennas Direct DB2 clone. Its a great antenna, and it is the equal of the ClearStream2. I give a slight edge to the C2, as it may have some more gain on VHF Hi. However the C2 is also quite a bit more expensive, making the Eagle Aspen DB2 clone a very good value. A best buy.

I ordered the HBU22 from Solid Signal. I'll let you know how it goes.

In the meantime, I built the homemade antenna here (http://lifehacker.com/5138746/build-your-own-dtv-antenna). I tried it on my mom's TV (she lives a couple of blocks away) and got 9 channels in, all strong, including all three VHF 7channels. I am pretty sure the HUB22 will meet my needs now. I don't know that I will get any more channels. But I will get those 9.

I didn't realize that I do not have a digital tuner at all on my Sony HD KV-30hs420. I knew I did not have an HD tuner, but thought I had digital. It turns out it iis an NTSC only tuner.
Once I get the wiring for the TIVO Box, I'll get it set up. It should be here today or Monday.

Wiring arrived today. I connected the homemade antenna to my setup and receive 2.1, 2.2, 4.1, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 24.1, 24.2, 36.1 all at 96% or better.

The box also receives 10.1, 10.2, 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 19.1, 19.2, 19.3, 25.1, 25.2, 27.1, 36.1, 57.1. Should I expect to get any of those with the HBU22?

BC

I ordered the HBU22 from Solid Signal. I'll let you know how it goes.

In the meantime, I built the homemade antenna here (http://lifehacker.com/5138746/build-your-own-dtv-antenna). I tried it on my mom's TV (she lives a couple of blocks away) and got 9 channels in, all strong, including all three VHF 7channels. I am pretty sure the HUB22 will meet my needs now. I don't know that I will get any more channels. But I will get those 9.

I didn't realize that I do not have a digital tuner at all on my Sony HD KV-30hs420. I knew I did not have an HD tuner, but thought I had digital. It turns out it iis an NTSC only tuner.
Once I get the wiring for the TIVO Box, I'll get it set up. It should be here today or Monday.

Wiring arrived today. I connected the homemade antenna to my setup and receive 2.1, 2.2, 4.1, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 24.1, 24.2, 36.1 all at 96% or better.

The box also receives 10.1, 10.2, 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 19.1, 19.2, 19.3, 25.1, 25.2, 27.1, 36.1, 57.1. Should I expect to get any of those with the HBU22?

BC
Sure looks like you picking up some Columbia and Greenville stations. WJWJ channel 16 is PBS in Beaufort. You can find these channel on this FCC website: http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/tvq.html

Oljim, I just wanted to say that I had a DB2 (or it could be an Eagle Aspen as I bought it used and cant find any markings).....on the roof with a Channel Master 7777 amplifier and it did a pretty damn good job of picking up Charleston stations and Beaufort WJWJ PBS 16 off the side.

I have a Channel Master 4221 up there now with the CM 7777 amplifier and Im not convinced its doing any better than the DB2 or the CM 4220 that I have also had up there. I actually think the wider beamwidth of the 2 bays helps with my yard tree situation(especially during tree leaf time). However the CM 4221 and the CM 7777 are pulling in Channel 7 WITV PBS fairly well....and I dont think the 2 bays will do as well on that one. Of course I dont mind losing it as I WJWJ 16 Beafort to get by with.

Well see what happens when the leaves come back.

Sure looks like you picking up some Columbia and Greenville stations. WJWJ channel 16 is PBS in Beaufort. You can find these channel on this FCC website: http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/tvq.html

The box shows them but they don't have any signal strength.

Channel 36 is showing 100% signal strength, but a black screen/no picture.

Anyone else getting random, audible clicking on Comcast HD since this weekend? It's a single, quick "crackling" sound. Random in occurrence, but averages about 1 every minute. Not sure if the issue is my cable box, the Comcast signal, or a rusted or poorly grounded cable line.

Standard def stations and my DVDs don't seem to exhibit the noise.

Haven't noticed any noise, however have a audio channel overlap with ESPN channel 7 on my non-cable box TV the past couple of Sunday mornings.

I ordered the HBU22 from Solid Signal. I'll let you know how it goes.

In the meantime, I built the homemade antenna here (http://lifehacker.com/5138746/build-your-own-dtv-antenna). I tried it on my mom's TV (she lives a couple of blocks away) and got 9 channels in, all strong, including all three VHF 7channels. I am pretty sure the HUB22 will meet my needs now. I don't know that I will get any more channels. But I will get those 9.

I didn't realize that I do not have a digital tuner at all on my Sony HD KV-30hs420. I knew I did not have an HD tuner, but thought I had digital. It turns out it iis an NTSC only tuner.
Once I get the wiring for the TIVO Box, I'll get it set up. It should be here today or Monday.

Wiring arrived today. I connected the homemade antenna to my setup and receive 2.1, 2.2, 4.1, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 24.1, 24.2, 36.1 all at 96% or better.

The box also receives 10.1, 10.2, 16.1, 16.2, 16.3, 19.1, 19.2, 19.3, 25.1, 25.2, 27.1, 36.1, 57.1. Should I expect to get any of those with the HBU22?

BC


I installed the AntennaCraft HBU22 this morning. I faced it North, with the hope of getting the Summerville and Ladson stations (18 & 26). I was expecting to get 20 as well (off the back side as it is due south). According to TV fool, 20 is only 5.8 miles away.

From the attic, the HBU22 really does not pick up anything I did not already get on the homemade antenna (also in the attic w/ 25 ft. of new RG6).

If you are in the North Mt. Pleasant area (Park West / Planter's Pointe / Rivertowne), I suggest you try a homemade antenna before you order anything. If you do want the channels from Beaufort, Ladson, Summerville, etc., I think you will need something stronger than an HBU22 in the attic.

I may try the HBU22 on the roof, as I initially planned. If I do, I will write up the results.

I installed the AntennaCraft HBU22 this morning. I faced it North, with the hope of getting the Summerville and Ladson stations (18 & 26). I was expecting to get 20 as well (off the back side as it is due south). According to TV fool, 20 is only 5.8 miles away.

From the attic, the HBU22 really does not pick up anything I did not already get on the homemade antenna (also in the attic w/ 25 ft. of new RG6).

If you are in the North Mt. Pleasant area (Park West / Planter's Pointe / Rivertowne), I suggest you try a homemade antenna before you order anything. If you do want the channels from Beaufort, Ladson, Summerville, etc. you will need something stronger than an HBU22 in the attic.

I may try the HBU22 on the roof, as I initially planned. If I do, I will write up the results.

What stations in Summerville are you referring too?

This is a email I got back from TVGOS about the lost of guide when SCETV shut down their analog transmitters. Both CBS stations in this area are owned by the same company and will not at this time carry the guide. I got intouch with TVGOS about the problem.

Response (Todd Mogielnicki) - 04/10/2009 09:42 AM
We are in the process of getting State Wide coverage in South Carolina for TV Guide data. This should be complete in the next 2 months. Thank you for your patience.

Customer (External Caller (SCL1MAS1)) - 02/23/2009 12:32 PM
<<Avaya Modular Messaging>>

what stations in summerville are you referring too?

26 - w26cf
18 - wlcn

Looks like it will be June before 18 is on air

Any info on WHDC (http://whdctv.com/)Channel 12?
Is this a new channel?

http://whdctv.com/

26 - w26cf
18 - wlcn

FCC shows WLCN-CA is owned by FAITH ASSEMBLY OF GOD OF SUMMERVILLE but their transmitter is on Venning Rd in Mt Pleasant. There are two towers there owened by WEZL. TBN also has their antenna located there.

Any info on WHDC (http://whdctv.com/)Channel 12?
Is this a new channel?

http://whdctv.com/

This is the FCC website where you can find info about TV stations: http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/tvq.html

WHDC is also a low power station which has their transmitter location on that same tower in Mt Pleasant.

Question... I am moving from West Ashley to Summerville. I have Comcast right now, but it is not offered in Summerville... What are my choices and does anyone have any suggestions? Not only about HDTV but also High Speed Interwebs...

Question... I am moving from West Ashley to Summerville. I have Comcast right now, but it is not offered in Summerville... What are my choices and does anyone have any suggestions? Not only about HDTV but also High Speed Interwebs...

Bell South gives the best deal. The have the internet, the phone land line, cell phone & direct TV. I would still get an antenna for you locals. With a distribution amp you can connect several TVs to your antenna. Your HD TV will look best when you get the signal directly from the station with an antenna. Also it will be on the right channel without the cable moving it around.

Has anyone heard when U-verse might be available in the Charleston area? I think I have a VRAD at the end of my street.

Geez where is everyone?

in ladson,

i only get 9 digital channels,
and one of those is TEST channel.

i was hoping for more, and get rid of Direct.

OTA seems to look much more clearer

in ladson,

i only get 9 digital channels,
and one of those is TEST channel.

i was hoping for more, and get rid of Direct.

OTA seems to look much more clearer

You may get more after the analog is shut down & vacates some frequencys thus giving more range to the dtv stations on the same channel.

9 clear OTA channels, including subs, in Ladson would be the expected.

I'm getting severe breakup on 2,4,5,24,36, but not 7 or 14. Everything else on DirecTV is solid. This just started. Support couldn't help - they scheduled a tech for Wednesday (!). Anyone else around here experiencing this?
-JFS

I'm getting severe breakup on 2,4,5,24,36, but not 7 or 14. Everything else on DirecTV is solid. This just started. Support couldn't help - they scheduled a tech for Wednesday (!). Anyone else around here experiencing this?
-JFS

I had the same problem Saturday. It must have been the feed from D*. No need for a service call.

Geez where is everyone?

All signs point to no U-Verse anytime soon unfortunately. I'll be first to sign up for that or FIOS when they're available. As far as I know the only decent option for residential high speed internet is the dreaded comcast (or knology, if you'd prefer a more palatable surrogate)

The problem left an hour or two after I called. I also left a message with WCBD engineering. I don't know who bears responsibility for the feed between the local stations and DirecTV (or Dish for that matter.) It certainly is frustrating when the OTA picture is verifiably good and the satellite one is not, and they say it must be a local issue!

FWIW - I'm seeing and have noted a lot of discussion on other forums about a "BRRIIP" problem - you hear that sound on various channels, then the sound goes away for a few seconds, then it comes back. Sometimes the picture pauses too. There doesn't seem to be a clear pattern or cause, but the general opinion seems to blame DirecTV.

After 4 months on DirecTV, I am happy with the volume of content, but not the quality (too much stretch-o-vision.) HBO On Demand isn't there yet (but Showtime, StarZ and many other channels are available On Demand.) Beware the contract - there is a $20 fine per unsatisfied month of the 24 month commitment if you try to cancel anytime after the first 24 hours after installation! As for the locals, PQ is similar to OTA, probably not quite as good (my set isn't good enough to tell.) You only get 7.1, which is not the national PBS HD - I understand that's all changing anyway with the national going away. The CW is out of Washington, D.C., not the local one from 2.2, but there probably isn't much difference. They use a full-screen SD feed of Smallville, instead of the letterboxed version that 2.2 uses.

I got all HD boxes, the newest models - they don't even install the older boxes now. It uses one cable per box. There is one large oval dish, several LNBs, and a multiplex switch box setup, all supplied in the free install. The HD DVR has terrific capacity - much bigger than the Scientific Atlanta boxes that Comcast and Knology use, probably because it's all MPEG-4 now. Selecting recordings over the web works pretty much as advertised. Their web UI for all functions is heads above the cable company sites.

Thanks to money issues, I've been wishing I had not switched, just knocking my Knology down to the $10 lifeline service. I kept Knology phone and internet, which I've been quite happy with. My wife has been less tolerant of sound-sync problems that have cropped up occasionally. I've been advised to call and complain about every little thing - apparently DirecTV customer service regularly gives away credits for months of premiums or other gimmes.
-JFS

I'm thinking about switching to Directv again, do the HD-DVR's still require an additional cable feed to them?

I'm thinking about switching to Directv again, do the HD-DVR's still require an additional cable feed to them?
I have the HR23-700 DVR - it's what I got for requesting an HD DVR. It uses only 1 cable and can record from both tuners at once.
-JFS

I'm thinking about switching to Directv again, do the HD-DVR's still require an additional cable feed to them?

For most installs they use the SWM LNB, which only requires one line. They say they only use them for homes with more that 4 tuners, but I have heard that they use them for any home that is hard to run a second line.

For most installs they use the SWM LNB, which only requires one line. They say they only use them for homes with more that 4 tuners, but I have heard that they use them for any home that is hard to run a second line.

I just had Directv installed on Tuesday and they used a 5 LNB dish to cover 5 satellites. It really looks like 3 LNB's but one covers 3 of the satellites. There are 2 coax goings into my HD-22.

I just had Directv installed on Tuesday and they used a 5 LNB dish to cover 5 satellites. It really looks like 3 LNB's but one covers 3 of the satellites. There are 2 coax goings into my HD-22.

Really? I had my equipment upgraded because of them moving our locals off of 72.5. The dish was on the order and he had it on his truck and it was a SWM LNB. I asked him if he could install it and after calling D*, they told him to go ahead and change it. I had the 5LNB but now I have the SWM 3LNB. They changed all my D11 receivers with H-21's and changed my R15 unit to the R22. I love it.

Anybody here with a HDDVR with Directv losings channels 4,24, and 36. I have them on all my other boxes but not my HR20-100. Talked to someone else with the same box and he is having the same problem. Can you all check and see what you are getting? thanks.

Anybody here with a HDDVR with Directv losings channels 4,24, and 36. I have them on all my other boxes but not my HR20-100. Talked to someone else with the same box and he is having the same problem. Can you all check and see what you are getting? thanks.

I have this box and receive locals OTA and all my channels are OK.

I have this box and receive locals OTA and all my channels are OK.

I am talking about thru the satellite. Thanks though.

New to this area of the forum I guess because I just cut my direct tv and comcast off so i just have over the air by outside ant. now. Never liked paying for tv anyway so hdtv is my choice now for a few months now. The ant. I have is a channel master and has an amp on it and is hooked up to 5 TVs all with tuner built in and pick up 2-1,4-1 5-1,5-2,7-1,7-2,7-3,20 with snow,24-1, and 36-1. Our church is going to have its station up today and would like to receive the broadcast and I live in ladson so my question is will I have to put a rotator on my ant. to receive there broadcast and what type.

Also do guys ever have meetings, to talk over home theater for tips and tricks you have come to learn over the years.

All the locals are in Awendaw on two towers a couple miles apart. If the church tower is near the path between you and there maybe not. The difference from that line and the exact type of antenna will determine the answer. Also The church broadcast might be analog low power and that would factor in.

There is an home theater area here on AVS

New to this area of the forum I guess because I just cut my direct tv and comcast off so i just have over the air by outside ant. now. Never liked paying for tv anyway so hdtv is my choice now for a few months now. The ant. I have is a channel master and has an amp on it and is hooked up to 5 TVs all with tuner built in and pick up 2-1,4-1 5-1,5-2,7-1,7-2,7-3,20 with snow,24-1, and 36-1. Our church is going to have its station up today and would like to receive the broadcast and I live in ladson so my question is will I have to put a rotator on my ant. to receive there broadcast and what type.

that will depend on where you live at. If you live like say west of the ch 20 tower then all 0f the stations will be in the same direction.
Do you mean ch 20 is snowy?

Is ch 20 a low power analog?

Do they plan to make it digital?

Gods blessing to save your money & use an antenna only. That is very wise.

I believe it is foolish to pay for some thing that is free while going deeper in debt to pay for TV cable. Folks should be paying off their personal debt like credit cards & etc. You can live with out cable TV. There sure was a lot more good shows on the Charleston tv stations in the 1960s & we did not need TV cable to get it. Cable TV is very little improvment in choice over a antenna & not worth the money.

Yes 20 is low power analog. It stated on our fryer as WLCN HD feel 18 again and was to go on air today.

I am fabulously rich and want cable TV. Thanks anyway.

Received an e-mail from Comcast making it seem like NFL Network will not be in the sports tier package that was additional money and will now be in the standard digital package. Good news:)

Received an e-mail from Comcast making it seem like NFL Network will not be in the sports tier package that was additional money and will now be in the standard digital package. Good news:)

It's true.

Just trying to keep this thread alive.

"Zed's Dead, Baby, Zed's Dead..."

According to their site, Channel 18 (http://www.wlcntv.com/) should be up by June 12.

I wrote an EMail to John Salov and asked about when WHDC Channel 12 would be up and what kind of programming would be offered. I received this response:

My goal is to have the station on the air this summer. To see what it will look like, visit my Orlando station we site at: www.whdotv.com (http://www.whdotv.com)

Thanks,

john

John Salov, President
Local HDTV, Inc.
180 W. Michigan Ave.
Jackson, Michigan 49201
517 206-0404
866 995-9850
517 782-1510 fax
WFHD-TV 36 TAMPA
WHDO-TV 38 ORLANDO
WHDC-TV 10 CHARLESTON, SC
KLPS-TV 19 PALM SPRINGS
WHDA-TV 27 ANN ARBOR

Comcast ... any new HD offerings ?

Sorry can't speak to HD channels at the moment, but will say we are going to add more channels in the future.

We do have a few other updates worth mentioning. We have alot going on, just not at liberty to talk about on web forum.

We signed a long term deal with the NFL network. At date TBD we will move it off the sports tier to the Digital Classic tier.

Also we signed an agreement with ESPNU and ESPN360.com. This is good because ESPN will carry the SEC football games instead of JP this upcoming year. Also Comcast Sports Southeast has agreed to carry 6 SEC football games. Not sure when we will launch ESPNU.

ESPN360.com is a web based sports site. You can watch games on it that sometimes are not televised. Unfortunately that could mean more Clemson games (Okay so I am a Gamecock fan).


Not sure when will launch ESPNU and ESPN360.com

Also we launched MLS Direct Kick soccer PPV package. The package cost $75 for the season.

regards,

Andrews

I've noticed that channel 5.1 (digital) has been weak the last few weeks. This morning I was getting only a 50-60 on the signal strength meter whereas I was getting a 95-100 on all the other local channels.

Does anyone know if Channel 5 has reduced their digital signal while they get ready for June 12?

Any reccomendations for an indoor HD antenna for James Island. I'm off Harbor View near the Piggly Wiggly. I've tried a couple w/o much success. Just cancelled Comcast for the summer to see if I can cope.

Thanks,
Brian

Any reccomendations for an indoor HD antenna for James Island. I'm off Harbor View near the Piggly Wiggly. I've tried a couple w/o much success. Just cancelled Comcast for the summer to see if I can cope.

Thanks,
Brian

What tytpe were the antennas you tried?

I have had a very good results from the radio shack bow tie.

What were the results of each channel.

If you did not get any thing at all you may need to check the set up on your dtv & make sure it is set up for off the air signals & not tv cable & make sure it is connected to the right connection. Some DTVs have a seperate port for cable ready than the antenna connection for over the air.

You can try spending a half hour making the coat hanger antenna. It worked fine for me and my Mom uses it. I am only a few miles from the towers. Some people comment that they are getting great reception 30 miles + from the towers.
I used this plan:
http://vimeo.com/2931902

pdfs are listed below the screen


These are similar:

http://uhfhdtvantenna.blogspot.com/


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWQhlmJTMzw (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EWQhlmJTMzw)

http://www.highdefforum.com/local-hdtv-info-reception/64768-coat-hanger-antenna.html

BC

Anybody heard if there are any new sub-channels coming after the DTV switch? Will the CW be in HD then? Will the weather sub-channels return?

CW can't be HD as long as it is on a 480i sub channel.

CW can't be HD as long as it is on a 480i sub channel.

Yes,but couldn't the conversion free up bandwidth that could allow it to be converted to a HD signal instead of 480i. I think that is why NBC's HD is so bad, because of having to share bandwidth with the analog and CW signal. Getting rid of the analog could theoretically allow for 2 more HD channels to take it's place. If I am wrong please correct me.

Yes,but couldn't the conversion free up bandwidth that could allow it to be converted to a HD signal instead of 480i. I think that is why NBC's HD is so bad, because of having to share bandwidth with the analog and CW signal. Getting rid of the analog could theoretically allow for 2 more HD channels to take it's place. If I am wrong please correct me.

I am not an EE, but no. The analog band freed up is not the same band as the digital. Think of bandwidth as a highway and greater bandwidth as more lanes on an individual highway. Now think of the analog as a Different Highway from the digital and you can see why it won't work. BTW I believe the signal recieved by WCBD is HD and they have to down convert it to squeeze it into the subchannel.

Also I agree that WCBDs signal is lousy if not the worst in the area. Just saw in the paper that WCSC will convert at 6 AM but WCBD will not convert until 11:30pm tomorrow night claiming it will give their viewers the night and weekend to correct their problems. They imply viewers problems but considering WCBDs performance it could be that they doubt themselves.

AT least the stations "switching" will not be changing their digital channel frequencies saving us from having to rescan three times.

AT least the stations "switching" will not be changing their digital channel frequencies saving us from having to rescan three times.

Aren't WTAT and WMMP moving back to their analog channels?

- Trip

Yes,but couldn't the conversion free up bandwidth that could allow it to be converted to a HD signal instead of 480i. I think that is why NBC's HD is so bad, because of having to share bandwidth with the analog and CW signal. Getting rid of the analog could theoretically allow for 2 more HD channels to take it's place. If I am wrong please correct me.

The FCC gave WCBD a 2nd channel for digital while they still ran the exsiting analog. The FCC requires WCBD to give up one of the channels on 6-12-09. Since channel 2 is subject to electrical noise because of the low frequency; They are going to give up the channel 2. To transmit CW in hd a completely seperate transmitter & apply with the FCC for a channel. What is really comes down to is really a completely new station. But there is a ray of hope. When the analogs shuting down there is going to be some antennas & equip available. But now the economy is slow so, it may not happen too soon.

OK, the switch has happened! How about some reception reports now that all but WCBD are at full power?

OK, the switch has happened! How about some reception reports now that all but WCBD are at full power?

I don't think WCBD (channel 2) is switching until 11:30 PM tonight per an article in The Post and Courier. Channel 4 is switching around noon today.

Aren't WTAT and WMMP moving back to their analog channels?

- Trip

I think you're right on this. I was just talking about the three major channels that had not switched.

OK, the switch has happened! How about some reception reports now that all but WCBD are at full power?

I thought the digital was aready up & running at full power. From what I understood the only thing to happen today was for WCBD, WCIV & WCSC to switch or shut down the analog. I do understand that some stations had the analog top mounted & then added the digital as a side mount antenna. Those stations that were staying with the orginal channel like WIS-TV 10 & WBTW TV 13 are going to run the digital with the same top mounted antenna. But since since all 2,4 & 5 going to UHF are not may remove the analog VHF low band antenna off the top & install the UHF on the top. I have not heard any on that task here but, I do know that In NY on the ESB they were doing something like that.

The only thing that will happen is the old analog will be shut off and Fox and CW will go to DTV 24 and 36

The only thing that will happen is the old analog will be shut off and Fox and CW will go to DTV 24 and 36

I can get WTAT 24 in Myrtle Beach very well now but WMMP is a no show up here.

2 has whomped out the power up here since July 2006. 5 is coming in too now. WCIV uses ch 34 & tbn uses the same channel so it will not be in up here until tbn moves to their digital ch 17.

When you do your rescan are you seeing the new channel numbers or the same old ones? I still get the old numbers even after doing a new setup on a Sony Bravia.

If I understand your question, Channel numbers did not change. In some cases the FREQUENCY changed, i.e., locally ch24 DTV has been on freq 40 during the transition but is now on freq 24.

If I understand your question, Channel numbers did not change. In some cases the FREQUENCY changed, i.e., locally ch24 DTV has been on freq 40 during the transition but is now on freq 24.

I understood that after June 12th the channel numbers would change to the new numbers that fcc has listed. Ch 5 would be 47 and so on. I still receive 5 on 5 and 24 on 24. Nothing has changed. I have done on two sets total setup from the beginning like it was a new set.

Has WMMP moved back to 36 yet?

- Trip

Your understanding of channel number and frequency is reversed. In the "olden days" before DTV they used to be the same. In order to allow the stations to retain their "brand name" channel established over many years and allow for dual analog and digital transition period they made the channel # in DTV a virtual ch #. This allowed channel # to be the same during the transition for both the analog and DTV broadcasts even though the frequencies were different. Using 24 as example their analog broadcast was on freq 24, ch24 as it always was. During the transition their DTV broadcast virtual channel was 24.1 But the actual Freq was temporarily 40. As of June 12 they permanently stopped the analog broadcast on freq 24 and began using frequency 24 for their digital broadcast of 24.1.

Clear as mud?

"Has WMMP moved back to 36 yet?"

Not according to my setup. Was watching for that but it did not happen??

OTA Reception of WMMP 36-1 has been sketchy for me here in Mt. P. Earlier it was 100%, now is 0%.
Last night, 32-1 WMBF and 32-2 XTRA came in crystal clear. Today they are showing 0% on the signal strength meter. They did come up again in a fresh scan. Still showing 0% on meter.
Channel Scans on the TiVo take about 15 minutes.

Below is my current reception w/ TiVo and an AntennaCraft HBU22 22 Element High-Band VHF UHF Outdoor HDTV Antenna mounted in the attic
Channel Call Sign Freq. Signal Notes
2-1 WCBDDT 50 100%
2-2 WCBDDT2 50 100%
4-1 WCIV 34 92%
5-1 WCSC 47 96%
5-2 WCSC-2 47 100% No Picture
7-1 WITVDT1 7 100%
7-2 WITVDT2 7 100%
7-3 WITVDT3 7 100%
8-1 ? 24 100% No picture
24-1 WTAT-1 24 100%
36-1 WMMP-1
I had not picked up the stations below on previous scans
32-1 WMBF 32 100% last night 0% today
32-2 XTRA 32 100% last night 0% today - weather maps
8-1 24 100%

Same experience here on 36-1

Your understanding of channel number and frequency is reversed. In the "olden days" before DTV they used to be the same. In order to allow the stations to retain their "brand name" channel established over many years and allow for dual analog and digital transition period they made the channel # in DTV a virtual ch #. This allowed channel # to be the same during the transition for both the analog and DTV broadcasts even though the frequencies were different. Using 24 as example their analog broadcast was on freq 24, ch24 as it always was. During the transition their DTV broadcast virtual channel was 24.1 But the actual Freq was temporarily 40. As of June 12 they permanently stopped the analog broadcast on freq 24 and began using frequency 24 for their digital broadcast of 24.1.

Clear as mud?

One of the reasons for the DTV change was to clear up VHF frequencies for future use. If what you say is true then this in not happening. I believe the higher frequency will remain and they will be remapped to the orginal channel numbers.

You are correct to a point. I was trying to explain the difference between the virtual ch# and the actual frequency. For example 5.1 DTV will stay at freq 47 and 2.1 DTV will stay at freq 50. During the transition PBS ch7 analog was freq 7 as always but had a Temporary higher freq, I don't remember what, for DTV 7.1 just like ch24. This past Feb the original change date PBS went ahead and made the switch. At that time they stopped analog ch 7 on FREQ 7 and moved 7.1 DTV back to FREQ 7. I believe the freq Below 7 are the ones which as you said freed up.

I just went back to your original question and decided maybe this would help. You have been seeing the Virtual ch# and will continue to always see the Virtual ch# for DTV. For example you are going to continue to see WCSC Virtual ch 5.1 DTV. You are not going to see 47 the FREQ it is actually on except that some devices will show a table that equates the virtual ch to the frequency it uses.

The channels that are being eliminated are channels 52-69, not 2-6 and not 2-13. The 52-69 frequencies have now been vacated by all full-powered broadcasters.

Now, since all the stations are in 2-51 and are scattered all over the place, it is within this spectrum that stations will be mapped to their original analog channel numbers.

Does that make sense?

- Trip

The channels that are being eliminated are channels 52-69, not 2-6 and not 2-13. The 52-69 frequencies have now been vacated by all full-powered broadcasters.

Now, since all the stations are in 2-51 and are scattered all over the place, it is within this spectrum that stations will be mapped to their original analog channel numbers.

Does that make sense?

- Trip

2-6 will not be used, same for 52-69

2-6 will not be used, same for 52-69

2-6 is part of the "core" spectrum. Just because most stations are fleeing it doesn't mean it's no longer used at all. See WPVI in Philly.

- Trip

2-6 is part of the "core" spectrum. Just because most stations are fleeing it doesn't mean it's no longer used at all. See WPVI in Philly.

- Trip

2 - 6 was subject to static. You could keep watching analog tv with the static but digital TV on those channels would be going in & out from static. Compare 2-6 to AM radio. If you are under the strong part of the AM signal it seems ok . Try listioning to AM in the weaker area while lighting is striking & you will loud pops in the radio.

Most of the tv stations do not want to use the ch 2 - 6 for that reason.

Also the FCC has an digital modulation for the stations on the AM band. But I have not heard good reports of it.

I did hear there is an idea do add the ch 6 & 5 channels into the FM radio band. But The FCC is too tied up with the dtv project to worry about the FM radio band.

I know first-hand the horrors of a low-VHF digital. The point I was making is that it's still part of the TV band, whether most stations use it or not.

- Trip

I live 8 miles from the 18.1 tower but get absolutely no signal with rabbit ears. However, I pick up 2, 4, 5, and 24 clearly. Anyone else having any problems? I'm using amplified Phillips rabbit ears.

Do you get 7.1?

Not anymore. I did until they switched back to 7.

I would expect that if you get 4 & 5 you would get 7 also. I'm stumped. Don't know what frequency 18 is on and have never watched it though it sometimes comes in on a scan and sometimes not. If you get 27 it is the same as 7, PBS, out of Beaufort. It is generally normal in the tri-county area to get 2,4,5,7,24 and 36. I am assuming you did a new scan after Friday since you are getting 24 which did change on Friday.

Idea, is 18 one of the low power stations that did not have to switch and is still analog?

18 filed to cover their permit to operate digitally, which means it should be on the air now, though their website has not been updated to reflect this fact. Here's their coverage area.

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=DC1298577.html

Also, I found an FCC filing which suggests WMMP may be moving back to 36 at 1000 kW tomorrow. Keep an eye open, though don't be too surprised if it gets delayed again.

- Trip

I havent seen 18 in my location. Also having trouble with 36 WMMP, now.

I picked up channel 20, very fuzzy analog though.

I see that Fox 24 is now on frequency 24. Any idea if or when WMMP channel 36-1 mytvcharleston be moving from freq 35 to 36? Any information would be greatly appriciated. Thanks!

Their last FCC filing said WMMP would move tomorrow, but the FCC gave them until July 12 to do it in the event they have further delays.

- Trip

36 is back up for me, but Im not sure if they are on real channel 36 or still on 35. Their power seems boosted, maybe.

Additionally, at 10:26 pm on Thursday, about an hour ago, sub channel 5.2 was broadcasting a news program, but then the picture cut out and then only audio for a few minutes then back to just the logo which has been up a day or 2 that Ive noticed.

SiliconDust implies that WMMP is up on 36 now, so that's why you'd see a stronger signal.

As for 5-2, I have to wonder what's coming to it.

On a possibly related but possibly unrelated note, Charleston is mentioned in an article I read as a market getting NBC Universal Sports on a subchannel as of July 1. It doesn't say what station, but I wouldn't be surprised to see it show up on WCBD-DT 2-3, since Media-General is doing two SD subchannels in Raleigh, with Universal Sports being one of them.

Article: http://www.multichannel.com/article/279303-Universal_Sports_Goes_For_the_Gold.php

- Trip

As of 06/19 @ 11:30 AM I have 36-1 on freq 36.

Does anyone get captioning on 36-1 ??

It is the only one that I never get CC on and I thought it was required and would finally show up after 6/12. Pic is good but though I can hear it is impaired and I need the CC.

I live 8 miles from the 18.1 tower but get absolutely no signal with rabbit ears. However, I pick up 2, 4, 5, and 24 clearly. Anyone else having any problems? I'm using amplified Phillips rabbit ears.

I do not get 18.1 in Mount Pleasant. I have tried and it does not show up in a scan and manually I receive a "no signal" type message.
The Faith Assembly sign says that it is up and running.

I would expect that if you get 4 & 5 you would get 7 also. I'm stumped. Don't know what frequency 18 is on and have never watched it though it sometimes comes in on a scan and sometimes not. If you get 27 it is the same as 7, PBS, out of Beaufort. It is generally normal in the tri-county area to get 2,4,5,7,24 and 36. I am assuming you did a new scan after Friday since you are getting 24 which did change on Friday.

Idea, is 18 one of the low power stations that did not have to switch and is still analog?

TC PBS in Beaufort is 16.1/.2/.3 and is on DTV 44 Looks like 36 is back and strong

Where the heck is 27 then? I get that almost as strong as 7. Yes getting 36 on 36 and strong also.

Where the heck is 27 then? I get that almost as strong as 7. Yes getting 36 on 36 and strong also.

WRJA 27 is PBS from Sumter

Weird, must be one of them there anomaly things. That is almost the exact opposite direction from All the others for me and as I said it is almost as strong as 7.

Weird, must be one of them there anomaly things. That is almost the exact opposite direction from All the others for me and as I said it is almost as strong as 7.

Have picked it up a few times myself, did a rescan last week and got 7.1/7.2/7.3/7.4 and it was PBS form Jax FL.

Ive been picking up Savannah stations regularly off the backside of the AntennaCraft G1483, enough to consider an A/B switched 4 bay pointing South and Amped.

I have also been picking them up with the RS 1880 indoor antenna in the bedroom facing south.

Additionally, Ive been picking up Jacksonville stations on both setups sporadically.



Question: Is Retro Television Network (http://www.myretrotv.com/index2.html) coming to Charleston?

I have been picking up 20 and now 18 on analog.

If you look at this, you will see it listed as 18.2 for Charleston in wikipedia.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Retro_Television_Network

Is 18 going digital?

Ive also heard from Trip in VA that Universal Sports (http://www.universalsports.tv/) is coming to Charleston. They are affiliated with NBC no?

A subchannel on ABC WITV, 4.2 has popped up.

Still a subchannel on CBS WCSC 5.2 still showing a station ID and nothing else.

Additionally Fox 24 WTAT had a subchannel 24.2 showing for a while that was broadcasting an SD signal of their primary signal, but now has disappeared.

Anybody know what is coming down the pike? As I argued before, I think that subchannels will breath new life and profitability into OTA. Im all for it.

I would also be interested in The Weather Channel and ION and This TV.

What the heck is going on with Comcast?
I have got so much tiling and audio dropouts that most shows are unwatchable.
This is happening at both out houses in Sullivans Island and West Ashley.

i'm a huge Tour de france watcher and it is UNWATCHABLE!!!

I've had strong reception of WITV (7.1, 7.2, 7.3 PBS) digital stations for years, but recently I can't get a signal. I'm using a Channel Master CM4228 mounted in my second story attic, off Ben Sawyer Blvd. in Mt Pleasant. I just checked antennaweb.org and it looks like 7.1 is VHF and I believe the CM4228 is a UHF only antenna. Is that my problem? Did WITV switch from UHF to VHF within the past year?

Yes, they returned to their original VHF High ch 7 after the switch. BTW they switched back in Febuary the original date.

I've had strong reception of WITV (7.1, 7.2, 7.3 PBS) digital stations for years, but recently I can't get a signal. I'm using a Channel Master CM4228 mounted in my second story attic, off Ben Sawyer Blvd. in Mt Pleasant. I just checked antennaweb.org and it looks like 7.1 is VHF and I believe the CM4228 is a UHF only antenna. Is that my problem? Did WITV switch from UHF to VHF within the past year?

I have the CM 4228 is West Ashley and receive PBS 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 at 90+ signal level after they switched back to frequency 7. In fact, one reason I purchased the CM 4228 was because of its' ability to receive the high VHF channels. How do you have your antenna setup?

I am on vacation at the moment...I'll be back in the office tomorrow. Nothing has come across the Blackberry about Versus. I'll check. I watched a little of the tour on VERSUS HD and it looked great. I also announce we are launching ESPNU and moving a bunch of sports programing around.

Andrews

Comcast

I have the CM 4228 is West Ashley and receive PBS 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 at 90+ signal level after they switched back to frequency 7. In fact, one reason I purchased the CM 4228 was because of its' ability to receive the high VHF channels. How do you have your antenna setup?

I have it on a rotor, but have never even needed the rotor as all the channels came in without having to move the antenna. When I looked at the location of the WITV tower, it was in the same area as another (NBC?) that I receive at full strength. Considering that, and the fact that I used to pull it in well, made me think that its not a positioning problem. I'm using Vista Media Center and have a QAM tuner, so I'm going to give that a shot tonight with comcast and see what happens.

It has been my understanding that all the major locals are on two towers in Awendaw. Is there something on the 4228 or your TV that separates VHF/UHF? I have 4, 5 and 7 on the same.

Nothing on the antenna, so I'm guessing it has something to do with either the tuner Avermedia M780 or Media Center. I tried pulling in QAM channels from Comcast through the M780 last night and found quite a few, however, the quide information for those channels doesn't populate, which is a major problem.

I also announce we are launching ESPNU and moving a bunch of sports programing around.

Andrews

Comcast

Can you give us an indication when this will take place especially ESPNU with college football season getting to start in less than two months? Also, does this include ESPN360.com for those of us that also use Comcast for internet?

nilknarf,

Ok, is this Only on your HTPC or also on regular TV set?

Have you done a rescan on your HTPC tuner (M780) and if so did it find 7,1?

What MCE? 2005 or Vista?

Do you get 24.1 & 36.1?

Can you give us an indication when this will take place especially ESPNU with college football season getting to start in less than two months? Also, does this include ESPN360.com for those of us that also use Comcast for internet?
On June 30th we placed an ad in the Post and Courier announcing sports channels moves and additions that are going to happen in Charleston on July 31, 2009.

Attached is the ad that was placed in the paper. The following will be happening on July 31, 2009:

ESPN U (channel 735) will be added to Digital Preferred and SEP

NFL Network (channel 180) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
NBA TV (channel 734) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
NHL Network (channel 739) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
ESPN News (channel 102) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
MLB Network (channel 279) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP

ESPN Classic (726) will be moving from Digital Preferred to SEP. No longer available on channel 65

SEP stands for Sports and Entertainment tier

Please let me know if you have any questions. We also have more channel moves coming. We are moving some religious channels soon. Details TBD

Details on ESPN360.com when I have them. I suspect we will know something before football season, at this point I have no details.


Andrews Mcilwain
Comcast

Andrews_mcilwain@cable.comcast.com

On June 30th we placed an ad in the Post and Courier announcing sports channels moves and additions that are going to happen in Charleston on July 31, 2009.

Attached is the ad that was placed in the paper. The following will be happening on July 31, 2009:

ESPN U (channel 735) will be added to Digital Preferred and SEP

NFL Network (channel 180) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
NBA TV (channel 734) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
NHL Network (channel 739) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
ESPN News (channel 102) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
MLB Network (channel 279) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP

ESPN Classic (726) will be moving from Digital Preferred to SEP. No longer available on channel 65

SEP stands for Sports and Entertainment tier

Please let me know if you have any questions. We also have more channel moves coming. We are moving some religious channels soon. Details TBD

Details on ESPN360.com when I have them. I suspect we will know something before football season, at this point I have no details.


Andrews Mcilwain
Comcast

Andrews_mcilwain@cable.comcast.com
Oh yeah I keep working on a filter to block all Clemson and Georgia games

Our engineers keep running me off.

We will have several more changes coming soon. I can't say anymore than that.

Thanks for the info. I read the paper but must of missed the ad since I usually only read the "news".

Now I will keep my fingers crossed that TiVo picks up the changes correctly.

What the heck is going on with Comcast?
I have got so much tiling and audio dropouts that most shows are unwatchable.
This is happening at both out houses in Sullivans Island and West Ashley.

i'm a huge Tour de france watcher and it is UNWATCHABLE!!!

Since I've come across this far too many times, it could be issues at just your location. I've had a few times where the TV was unwatchable, went across the street to my neighbors house and all was fine. For some reason the signal just gets bad at my house. I think I've had a new line ran from the pedestal to my house 3 times in 6 1/2 years.

On another note, is it just Comcast that doesn't offer their HD channels with cable ready TV's? I would really like HD at other rooms of the house, but hate the idea of spending another $5 per box, plus TV's like in my kitchen, there is no where to put a box as my TV is hanging over my breakfast bar with no cabinets above to hide it in.

I guess cable ready TV's are no longer cable ready as they don't pick up anything but extended basic cable. My thinking is I pay far too much for cable and internet too not be able to enjoy the digital cable I pay for in other rooms, but my living room.

I received the following email from a friend and was wondering if anyone has information on this. Does this apply to all Comcast customers or is it if you have one of their boxes? Any info appreciated. If I call Comcast, I want to be prepared.

*****************
Friends with Comcast TV: today I learned from Comcast tech that the lower channels (0-99) and the lower the more affected……..don’t have a full digital signal.. It is available with the switch to digital that happened a couple of weeks ago…the catch is it doesn’t happen automatically…you need to call Comcast and ask for ADS to be able to get digital signal for your “lower” channels. It’s free. If asked how you knew of this just say a Comcast tech told you.
*****************

Thanks in advance!!

I received the following email from a friend and was wondering if anyone has information on this. Does this apply to all Comcast customers or is it if you have one of their boxes? Any info appreciated. If I call Comcast, I want to be prepared.

*****************
Friends with Comcast TV: today I learned from Comcast tech that the lower channels (0-99) and the lower the more affected……..don’t have a full digital signal.. It is available with the switch to digital that happened a couple of weeks ago…the catch is it doesn’t happen automatically…you need to call Comcast and ask for ADS to be able to get digital signal for your “lower” channels. It’s free. If asked how you knew of this just say a Comcast tech told you.
*****************

Thanks in advance!!
A couple months ago we began going all digital. I took some testers from this site. What we are doing is as we visit a house and ensure the plant is tight we move a customer into simulcast. It is done with a rate code. We prefer to roll a truck before we add the code. If you have marginal signal, you may not be aware until every channel is digital. You will have pixilation on every channel until signal is tight.

Every customer is progressively getting ADS, we are doing it incrementally. You can call and they will add the rate code, but if you have a signal problem you will need a tech visit.

Thanks for the explanation!!

A couple months ago we began going all digital. I took some testers from this site. What we are doing is as we visit a house and ensure the plant is tight we move a customer into simulcast. It is done with a rate code. We prefer to roll a truck before we add the code. If you have marginal signal, you may not be aware until every channel is digital. You will have pixilation on every channel until signal is tight.

Every customer is progressively getting ADS, we are doing it incrementally. You can call and they will add the rate code, but if you have a signal problem you will need a tech visit.

Comcast continues to make some channel changes. We are adding some HD channels, changing some sports programming, adding some sports programming, moving some digital religious channels, and adding some religious channels.



HD Channels INFO

We are launching 3 more HD channels on HD Digital Starter Tier

On August 18, 2009

Comedy Central HD 453
MTV HD 473
VH1 HD 474



Religious Channels INFO

The following channel changes are happening in Charleston on 07/15/09

Adding the following channel to digital starter:
Daystar: 248 http://www.daystar.com/

Adding the following channels to digital preferred:
Gospel Music Channel: 172 http://www.gospelmusicchannel.com/
Ion Life: 181 http://www.ionlife.com/home.php
Qubo: 183 http://www.qubo.com/index.asp

Moving the following channels from preferred basic to digital starter:
Ion: From 15 to 178 (Ion will still be available on channel 15 for digital starter and above customers only)
TBN: From 22 to 242
Inspiration Network: From 70 to 244

Moving the following channel from digital preferred to digital starter:
EWTN: 243


SPORTS Channels INFO

SEP stands for sports and entertainment package (A $5 sports tier)

The following will be happening on July 31, 2009:

ESPN U (channel 735) will be added to Digital Preferred and SEP

NFL Network (channel 180) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
NBA TV (channel 734) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
NHL Network (channel 739) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
ESPN News (channel 102) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP
MLB Network (channel 279) will now be available on Digital Preferred and SEP

ESPN Classic (726) will be moving from Digital Preferred to SEP. No longer available on channel 65

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Is channel 18 WLCN (http://www.wlcntv.com/programming/) going to increase its broadcast power? Where is its tower located? I havent been able to pick up a signal. But aparently they are airing RTV on 18.2 in 480i, Id really like to get that. Im having better luck with Savannah stations though. Aslo their site has HD behind the call letters, are they broadcasting 1080i? 720p?

Thanks!

Comcast ... why do you overcompress my favorite HD PBS shows (FrontLine, Nova etc.)? Pixelizes when there is even slight motion. Makes the shows unwatchable.

PBS over OTA does not show this problem at all !!

Thx //

I'm sorry if this isn't posted correctly, but I have difficulty negotiating the forum at times. This is my post from another area: I am considering purchasing the Clearstream4 antenna to be mounted on a 15ft. mast. I would like to have some comments from some to the experts whether this small antenna will perform well in this area. The following is data specific for my adress: http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...aead5a7e6e0305
Thanks.

I'm sorry if this isn't posted correctly, but I have difficulty negotiating the forum at times. This is my post from another area: I am considering purchasing the Clearstream4 antenna to be mounted on a 15ft. mast. I would like to have some comments from some to the experts whether this small antenna will perform well in this area. The following is data specific for my adress: http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...aead5a7e6e0305
Thanks.

Not sure how well it will work on PBS 7.1/7.2/7.3 but I would never spend $150 on the Cl 4 when you can get by with something like the Eagle Aspen ( 2 bowtie) for $12-15. I get all the Sav. Ga stations (1 is on DTV11) and they are 40 miles away. I can get most of the Charleston stations ( not PBS) at 71 miles

Searching for an antenna is relying somewhat on luck because of the many variables. If it doesn't work, I'll return it. BTW I spent $108.89 on Amazon with free shipping.

I'm sorry if this isn't posted correctly, but I have difficulty negotiating the forum at times. This is my post from another area: I am considering purchasing the Clearstream4 antenna to be mounted on a 15ft. mast. I would like to have some comments from some to the experts whether this small antenna will perform well in this area. The following is data specific for my adress: http://www.tvfool.com/?option=com_wr...aead5a7e6e0305
Thanks.

I do not think you will need an antenna that strong unless you are wanting stations besides those in Charleston. Also the SC ETV is on rf ch 7. To receive that station you will need a antenna to receive vhf hi. I have seen some vhf/uhf combo antennas that should work at lowes.

Are you wanting other stations outside of the Charleston dma?

I don't particularly care whether I get Ch-7 or not, as it is available on Dish. I do care that I can get Ch-18, which I couldn't get on a smaller antenna. Yes, I would like to get some other TV stations. I shall see whether this antenna works for me. If not, as I stated earlier, I will return it and try another.

Comcast ?, so we got NFL Network, but only in SD. We need to pay extra to get the HD feed? What gives? Some sort of negotiated BS to say no one is being charged for the station?

Lancer1991,

Let me check with engineering. I suspect it has to do more with Tier Mask locally than carriage agreements. We moved or launched over 10 channels recently. A lot of moving pieces

Let me look and get back to you. I am traveling all week, so please be patient.

Andrews

Andrews_Mcilwain@cable.comcast.com

Andrews can you tell me what is the status with a new GUI for Comcast. Chris George would tell me that one was coming,but I still see the same old one. That is one thing that is keeping me from returning to Comcast. That EPG is ancient.

Not sure.... a ton of changes are in the works...I am in Atlanta almost all week.

I want to do some digging and get you and answer.

It might take a little while

sorry for not having a better answer.

AM

Saw this post in the Greenville, SC forum about AT&T U-Verse being installed in upstate using crews from Charleston.

"Well, I came home this afternoon to find two AT&T trucks directly across the street from my house. Needless to say, I went to get the mail, said hello, they responded. I followed up with, "so, you guys hooking up u-verse for me?" They said, "No, we're doing some setup work for U-Verse though." So, that kind of surprised me. They said it shouldn't be more than 2-3 weeks, and when I told them about the gentleman on this thread who was able to order near the Brushy Creek Rd area, they actually said they were brought up here from Charleston to work on the U-Verse launch, so they weren't too familiar with the area. Interesting that they would bring a crew from Charleston, when I don't even think they have U-Verse yet."

I didnt know if anyone knew it or not but they have HBO HD On Demand now on comcast.

Any explanation about the infomercials playing on Channel 2 instead of "Great American Road Trip"? Seemed kind of odd to see that during prime time. Guide showed GART, The NBC website showed a regular scheduled showing tonight. Law & Order came on just fine immediately after "Swivel Sweeper" and "Free Money". So it would seem that the problem occured on the local end. Did someone forget to download/record tonight's episode of GART off the sat's?

Weird problem and I want to see if anyone else is having this. I have D* and have it hooked up to my Yamaha Home Theater via digital cable. On the local HD channels from D* and OTA, I lose all audio when show thats not in HD comes on. When a HD show comes on the audio comes back. This only happens on the local channels and thru the home theater w/ digital sound, not national HD channels. Did our local channels change the way they are sending audio down the pike. The model number on the box is HR20-100. If you could all try this, regardless of what provider you have, and tell me if you are having this problem. Thanks.

I assume by digital cable you mean a fiber optic or coax digital to your AVR(yamaha). The AVR therefore expects a digital signal and is not receiving one. Your D* box needs to convert analog signals to digital and then send them on the digital out to your AVR.

I use Windows MCE and tell it to send all audio, converting any analog to digital, to the spdif output on my sound card which goes to my AVR. Your D* box should give this option but I have NO knowledge of how that works. It must be solvable because it would be unacceptable to live with that in this day and time.

I assume by digital cable you mean a fiber optic or coax digital to your AVR(yamaha). The AVR therefore expects a digital signal and is not receiving one. Your D* box needs to convert analog signals to digital and then send them on the digital out to your AVR.

I use Windows MCE and tell it to send all audio, converting any analog to digital, to the spdif output on my sound card which goes to my AVR. Your D* box should give this option but I have NO knowledge of how that works. It must be solvable because it would be unacceptable to live with that in this day and time.


Yes I know and I have never had a problem until the last few days. I am just trying to isolate the problem. Like I said, I have audio on all HD and SD channels, digital and non-Digital signals. It is just on the locals thru D* and OTA.

Ok, if it has been working you got me. I would still suspect the D* box first, especially if the OTA is channeled through it and you have made no adjustments to the AVR and the AVR is working otherwise. BTW I have experienced no such problems with my HTPC setup which is OTA only.

Ok, if it has been working you got me. I would still suspect the D* box first, especially if the OTA is channeled through it and you have made no adjustments to the AVR and the AVR is working otherwise. BTW I have experienced no such problems with my HTPC setup which is OTA only.

Thanks. that is what I needed to know. I did a beta download the other night that could be the culprit. It is strange that it is only happening on the local channels. I tried going back to that National Release software and it is not reverting.

"beta download"? The cutting edge is the bleeding edge! :)

"beta download"? The cutting edge is the bleeding edge! :)

Most of the time they have been pretty good. This time maybe not so good. Since it was just the local channels, I thought it might be something else, but I guess not.

There are many variables involved and it may not be that even though odds favor it. Certainly contact them. Some people do enjoy the challenge/excitement of beta versions. Me, this an area where I prefer to be Second, not first, and let others get it to be reasonably stable before I jump in. Could be a sign of my old age. ;)

There are many variables involved and it may not be that even though odds favor it. Certainly contact them. Some people do enjoy the challenge/excitement of beta versions. Me, this an area where I prefer to be Second, not first, and let others get it to be reasonably stable before I jump in. Could be a sign of my old age. ;)

Turns out someone was just messing with my receiver and cut the right and left speakers off. Duh!

Like I said, To Many Variables! :confused:

BTW a genuine Big Thank You to all Beta testers! You make my life Much Easier.

Hello:

I am in the Charleston area and run a HDHomerun through my Media Center setup.

For some reason, I can receive all the local channels in HD except for Fox. I used to be able to tune Fox in HD with no problem.

Does anyone have any suggestions for how to tune Fox HD through my HDHomerun? I need to fix this BEFORE Panthers season begins.

If you go to http://www.silicondust.com/hdhomerun/lineup_web/US:29412#lineup_519080, the HDHomerun site makes it seem as if Fox HD is not broadcasting OTA. Also, I am a subscriber (forced) of Comcast because D* and Di$h offer ****** support for Media Center.

Thanks!

By HD I assume you mean digital.

Can you see 24.1 in your HDhomerun program? I know nothing about that but should be some minamal software to view with the card.

Have you done a rescan with HDhomerun?

Can you see 7.1 and 36.1 channels?

What MCE version? 2005, Vista, Win 7

By HD I assume you mean digital.

Can you see 24.1 in your HDhomerun program? I know nothing about that but should be some minamal software to view with the card.

Have you done a rescan with HDhomerun?

Can you see 7.1 and 36.1 channels?

What MCE version? 2005, Vista, Win 7

I am running Vista Media Center.

I cannot see 24.1 in the HDHomerun software, but I am tuning for QAM where you would need to tune to something different than 24.1 to tune FOX.

I cannot see 7.1 or 36.1, but I can tune WCBD, WCIV, WMMP, and WCSC perfectly

Yes, I did a rescan, and I will likely do another today

ok, I use MCE 2005 so can't help much and for whatever reason I thought you ment OTA not cable.

I asked about 7.1 WITV (PBS) and 36.1 WMMP because along with 24.1 they actualy changed OTA frequencies by June 12.

Looks like the only thing I can tell you is that with MCE 2005 and a Fusion tuner card I am recieving all local DIGITAL channels OTA very well.

We (comcast subs) now have MTV-HD / Comedy Central HD and VH1-HD. Comedy Central yesterday had a HD movie (forget the name) and it looked phenomenal.

MTV and VH-1 are mostly SD. On a side note, I have yet to see a HD show on the E! HD channel. Why call it an HD channel ?

On another side note, I see that Paid Programming is now encroaching into regular time slots. Darn, these providers must think we are sheep ... waiting to be herded into the next scam pen.

Okay Comcast subs, what are your opinions of the HD quality on Comcast? I have heard there is more microblocking that there use to be. I may be coming back and want to know if the quality is good. I have Directv now and I have little, if any, microblocking. We are looking to save money and the HD triple play sounds very appealing to us right now.

Okay Comcast subs, what are your opinions of the HD quality on Comcast? I have heard there is more microblocking that there use to be. I may be coming back and want to know if the quality is good. I have Directv now and I have little, if any, microblocking. We are looking to save money and the HD triple play sounds very appealing to us right now.

Depends on the channel. PBS is the worst - the OTA feed does not have any MB ... so its Comcast's fault.

On Comcast ... Video rate for Premium and Network channels is about 14Mb ... for Discovery / History etc. its about 8Mb.

For reference, Blu-Ray is about 16Mb - 40Mb (Keep in mind that a 40Mb Video does not always look better than 16Mb Video. The 'weakest link in the chain' logic applies here)

In the past, DirecTV has been accused of HD Lite ... 1280x1080 ... 8Mbps. Not sure if that holds any more.

http://www.multichannel.com/blog/The_Satellite_Dish/19685-Who_Has_The_Best_HD_Picture_.php

Wondering if anyone with Comcast and a DVR box happened to watch the FOX football games the last two nights. I swear when watching on the box the play was stuttering ever so slightly. When I flipped to OTA I didn't notice this issue. Watching tonight's game on NFL Network and not noticing anything wrong, short of audio issue I assume is at the stadium.

The Comcast DVR once in a while will get into that mode. The easiest way to verify this is to tune to a channel that has the scrolling news on the bottom (e.g. CNBC / Headline News / Fox News etc.) ... if it exhibits jerky motion thats a problem that calls for a reboot (turn off power for a few seconds)

The Comcast DVR once in a while will get into that mode. The easiest way to verify this is to tune to a channel that has the scrolling news on the bottom (e.g. CNBC / Headline News / Fox News etc.) ... if it exhibits jerky motion thats a problem that calls for a reboot (turn off power for a few seconds)

Thanks for the heads up. First time I've experienced it. I should know if it worked tonight as I have the box unplugged right now.

Thanks for the heads up. First time I've experienced it. I should know if it worked tonight as I have the box unplugged right now.

After having the box off for 6 hours or so, still same issue. Will have to try and replace the box I guess as the next option.

Okay Comcast subs, what are your opinions of the HD quality on Comcast? I have heard there is more microblocking that there use to be. I may be coming back and want to know if the quality is good. I have Directv now and I have little, if any, microblocking. We are looking to save money and the HD triple play sounds very appealing to us right now.

HD quality is horrible on Comcast. It seems to be getting worse and worse as time goes by. Try watching an action flick on HBO and it's riddled with macroblocking. If you have a 42-46" set you might not notice many of the artifacts. If you have a larger set, like I do, you will notice them. It's a shame, I used to brag about how good my picture was and I would tell friends of mine to go with Comcast.

HD quality is horrible on Comcast. It seems to be getting worse and worse as time goes by. Try watching an action flick on HBO and it's riddled with macroblocking. If you have a 42-46" set you might not notice many of the artifacts. If you have a larger set, like I do, you will notice them. It's a shame, I used to brag about how good my picture was and I would tell friends of mine to go with Comcast.

Okay thanks, all I needed to know.

HD quality is horrible on Comcast. It seems to be getting worse and worse as time goes by. Try watching an action flick on HBO and it's riddled with macroblocking. If you have a 42-46" set you might not notice many of the artifacts. If you have a larger set, like I do, you will notice them. It's a shame, I used to brag about how good my picture was and I would tell friends of mine to go with Comcast.

You must have some problems with your setup. I have Comcast HD and my display is a 92-inch 1080p front projector.

HBO and Showtime HD are extremely good ... and I am very picky when it comes to audio and video. The premium channels are allotted a higher bandwidth and it shows.

The macroblocking happens when there are fast pans on channels that have 8 to 9Mb bandwidth ... Discovery HD / History HD.

If you have macro blocking on all channels ... the signal strength of your incoming cable needs to be checked.

I have no issues overall with Comcast HD. Its not anywhere close to a Blu-ray ... but we all know that is not achievable (well ... maybe with FIOS).

You must have some problems with your setup.

Yeah probably a "Freelance Broadcast Technical Director" without a clue. :rolleyes:

Can any Comcast expert share the impact of the recent fiber upgrade ? I got a voicemail on our answering machine informing us that the cable was going to be out for a few hours as they upgrade the fiber.

Anyone ?

Did something change recently?

I don't subscribe to Comcast HD, but I do have an HD receiver TV (Panasonic Viera 50" plasma) and I have watched the local network HD channels provided "free" for a year with great results. I too used to brag on the Comcast quality. But a couple of weeks ago all the HD channels became very choppy with both video and sound (macroblocking?) - very unwatchable.

I used to watch Ch. 4 on 116-1, Ch. 5 on 116-2, Ch. 2 on 2.1, Fox on 77-4, and a few ETV channels in the 77 range. Recently, Ch. 4 and Ch. 5 moved to 4-1 and 5-1 (without rescanning channels). Then a few days later they all became unwatchable.

So I rescanned and immediately lost all but the ETV channels and Fox, which moved to 86-4. Still unwatchable though.

Is there something going on or should I just call Comcast for a signal check?

FYI ... no I have not changed anything with my setup in a year. The cable comes from the wall directly to the TV. I did receive a digital receiver last year from Comcast but didn't use it for even a full day because the picture was very grainy.

Thanks.

Redfishrunner,

They have added more HD channels. I'd have to say that I flipped back and forth during the Denver vs Chicago NFL game Sunday night and I'd have to say the macroblocking during the close up motion, especially the orange Denver jerseys, was worse on the cable than over the air. Rest of the picture wasn't bad.

I think there is always going to be arguments that there is or there isn't. May be just crappy wiring/connections at ones location over another. I sure know I've had my share of signal issues at my house, so I may not be the best to say.

Just my 2 cents, we can all at least afford that much.

You must have some problems with your setup. I have Comcast HD and my display is a 92-inch 1080p front projector.

HBO and Showtime HD are extremely good ... and I am very picky when it comes to audio and video. The premium channels are allotted a higher bandwidth and it shows.

The macroblocking happens when there are fast pans on channels that have 8 to 9Mb bandwidth ... Discovery HD / History HD.

If you have macro blocking on all channels ... the signal strength of your incoming cable needs to be checked.

I have no issues overall with Comcast HD. Its not anywhere close to a Blu-ray ... but we all know that is not achievable (well ... maybe with FIOS).

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1177070

Interesting. You didn't describe HBO as being extremely good in that thread. If you think the roller coaster sequence has artifacts, try watching Transformers on HBO HD.

There's nothing wrong with my setup, if there was a way to make it better, it would be done. My signal strength is fine, I've had every connector and piece of copper replaced between the tap on the pole and my TV because of an unrelated issue.

Either way, macroblocking isn't caused by a loss in signal strength. Macroblocking is an artifact created during MPEG2 compression - which doesn't compress motion very well. If you have a loss in signal strength, you would experience audio and video dropouts, freezes, portion of the picture freezing or turning black. Typically with MPEG2 compression, it's a total picture loss.


@RedfishRunner
If you're having sound dropouts and a "choppy" picture, that sounds like an issue with signal strength. Think of digital video and audio as a stream of 1's and 0's. If some of those 1's and 0's are missing you will start missing parts and/or all of the picture until that stream is restored - same with audio.

Macroblocking won't affect the sound at all, macroblocking is a compression artifact- created when they use MPEG2 to try and reduce the number of 1's and 0's going down the pipe. Digital sound is generally passed untouched during the entire distribution process and sound dropouts are an excellent indicator of signal quality issues.

I would check your signal strength, try bypassing any splitters, wall outlets, etc and see if the signal improves.

Within the last week the ESPN HD (403) and ESPN2 HD (404) channels have been stuttering (very noticeable with the bottom scroll). I do not have trouble with any other channels. Anyone else experiencing these issues?

FYI: I'm using a TiVo with cable cards. I've tried rebooting. I would think it was a hard disk issue if it was happening on other cable or OTA channels but everything else seems okay.

chsgas,

I am having the exact same issue on my Tivo, but it is also occurring on the Comcast DVR box that I have upstairs. I was worried it was my tivo, but that doesn't seem to be the common denominator. I watched the Clemson/GT game last night on both sets and the same issue occurred on ESPN. The jerkiness and stuttering was constant, every 3-5 seconds and was annoying me greatly. I was wondering if it was the signal strengh from Comcast, and if all the channels were doing it, but when I switched over to watch the Pittsburgh game on NBC the picture was clear as a bell and smooth.

I am convinced that this is either an ESPN source issue, or a Comcast re-broadcasting issue for just the ESPN feeds.

Anyone else see this as well?

jcvadder99 & chsgas,

Having same issues. I'm actually having the picture drop and come back continuously along with your issues. I'm in the process of checking the signal this morning. So far ESPN ticker doesn't seem choppy this morning. I'm thinking I'm having signal issues at my house again. I always seem to have signal issues that Comcast amps fix for some time and then they tell me to remove. It's a roller coaster every 6 months or so.

---------------------------

NFL Redzone

Add in yesterdays local section of the paper said 9/11 would be a free preview of channel 741. Tune to it and it says call Comcast to get this service. Way to stay on top of the ball there.

For whatever reason, the stuttering on the ESPN HD channels (403 and 404) was not noticeable this weekend. Hopefully Comcast corrected problem permanently.

lancer1991 and jcvadder99, did you see the same improvement?

Yes there was a issue we ESPN that was corrected.

I have been away on personal business.

A few changes upcoming to Comcast


We launched:

Charleston has launched ESPN U HD on Channel 396

All Digital Preferred HD and Sports Entertainment Pack HD Customers
will be able to enjoy this new channel.

We launched:

NFL Red zone digital Feed on 741

Must have Sports and Entertainment Pack to get it


Channels coming soon (10-13-09)

Digital Starter

BET HD: 475
The Weather Channel HD: 441

Digital Classic HD:

CMT HD: 476

Changing channel numbers only:

TV Guide: Move from channel 19 to channel 70

If you have any questions don't hesitate to reach out to me. I am trying catch up so apologies if I am tardy.

Andrews

Chsgas,

Yes as Andrews stated there was improvement. I also did a hard reboot of my DVR and it removed the flickering of the picture I was getting on other channels also. I would recommend looking into a hard reboot if you experience some issues with your picture. It may actually solve it.

Andrew ... thanks for the update.

Can you please tell me which HD channels are in which package ? (starter / classic)

I get ScienceHD / NatGeo HD etc. ... but cannot get EncoreHD-on-demand ... wonder what package I am on.

Andrew .. thanks for the PM.

Two more requests ...

- HDNet ? Please.

- Upgrade to Scientific Atlanta Software ? This is a request pending since 1998 :)

Andrew .. thanks for the PM.

Two more requests ...

- HDNet ? Please.

- Upgrade to Scientific Atlanta Software ? This is a request pending since 1998 :)

I am assuming this is for the GUI and if it is then....YES!!! This is one thing that is keeping me from coming back to Comcast. The GUI is horrible. It has been the same since Digital Cable started here in Charleston. It really needs to be updated. I see GUI's on the web from other Comcast cities and they are miles better than we have here.

PBS-HD now available thru Directv.

Yes there was a issue we ESPN that was corrected.

I have been away on personal business.

A few changes upcoming to Comcast


We launched:

Charleston has launched ESPN U HD on Channel 396

All Digital Preferred HD and Sports Entertainment Pack HD Customers
will be able to enjoy this new channel.

We launched:

NFL Red zone digital Feed on 741

Must have Sports and Entertainment Pack to get it


Channels coming soon (10-13-09)

Digital Starter

BET HD: 475
The Weather Channel HD: 441

Digital Classic HD:

CMT HD: 476

Changing channel numbers only:

TV Guide: Move from channel 19 to channel 70

If you have any questions don't hesitate to reach out to me. I am trying catch up so apologies if I am tardy.

Andrews

Is the Red Zone in HD? I will get that package if it is.

Redzone is in SD on Comcast.

Anyone else getting freezing on the Comcast HD channels? Doesn't seem to be happening on the local HD channels but all the others. The picture will be fine for 10-15 seconds, then it will freeze for 5-10 seconds, repeat.

Andrew @ Comcast ...

When are we getting BBC America HD ? Quite a few of us here in my community are looking forward to it.

Did anyone loose their ClearQAM stations tonight sometime between 8:30 and 9?

This is on Comcast, BTW.

Anyone know if Channel 5 is going to ever show anything on their weather subchannel 5.2 (besides their logo)? I emailed the station but no response.

I find here in Beaufort that WCBD OTA has very loud audio peaks and voices sound harsh. Does anyone else have this problem? It almost sound like they are yelling when they start a sentence.

Just a few questions (and comments) that I have regarding Comcast in the Lowcountry...

1) ESPN-U-HD on channel 396 - "Lovin it!!" (just wish Tivo would update the schedule)

2) Why did ESPN classic get turned off (channel 726?) It used to be there and now I can't find it anywhere. Of course the Carolina Game this past week was scheduled to be on there and I Tivo'd 4 hours of black screen)

3) When a college football game is listed as being on "FSN", where on earth do I find it? I try channel 401, but it is almost always dark, and even when it isn't, the schedule listings are never accurate.

That's about all. Just wondering if anyone has any similar thoughts or answers.

Later, :cool:

JCVader99:

I don't work for Comcast (just a subscriber) but your ESPN Classic issue may be that they switched it to the Sports and Entertainment Package (S&EP) tier (I think). So unless you subscribe to that I don't think you will get it.

The regional FSN channel is 59. All the other FSN regional channels are in the the 720's / 730's range and they may part of the S&EP tier also.

I hope that answers your questions. Again, I'm just a subscriber so hopefully the Comcast rep on the board will verify my answer.

JCVader99:

I don't work for Comcast (just a subscriber) but your ESPN Classic issue may be that they switched it to the Sports and Entertainment Package (S&EP) tier (I think). So unless you subscribe to that I don't think you will get it.

The regional FSN channel is 59. All the other FSN regional channels are in the the 720's / 730's range and they may part of the S&EP tier also.

I hope that answers your questions. Again, I'm just a subscriber so hopefully the Comcast rep on the board will verify my answer.


You are correct that ESPN Classic was moved to the S&EP tier. If you don't subscribe to that tier you won't get it. I think that happened as part of the corporate ESPN U deal.

For what it was worth they had problems broadcasting it anyway. The stadium lost power in parts for a quarter and 1/2 and ESPN could not broadcast. I was there. Until the second half the Gamecocks did not look good anyway.

FSN is indeed on channel 59...or the way I like it on FSN HD 401 at 12:30 on saturday.

On other Gamecock news (yeah i am a fan)

South Carolina's Oct. 17 game at Alabama will be televised by either CBS at 3:30 p.m. or by ESPN at 7:45 p.m., the SEC announced Monday.

If you have any questions drop me a message. The AVS forums emails me sporadically...so i would suggest my work email

andrews_mcilwain@cable.comcast.com

regards,
Andrews

BBC America HD coming to Comcast Charleston ?

Channels coming soon (10-13-09)

Digital Starter

BET HD: 475
The Weather Channel HD: 441

Digital Classic HD:

CMT HD: 476



Looks like this is delayed ?

looking for help with knology clear qam channels

I have been able to find:
Fox 81.1
CBS 80.1
ABC 79.1

Some other random channels...
102.27 is this AtMax-Pay per the channel guide in media center?
91.10 appears to be some Starz channel I can't identify
102.26 no idea what this is
102.6 no idea what this is

I am trying to find NBC's clear QAM and any others. Also any help identifying 102.26 or 102.6?

Looks like this is delayed ?

My apologies in my tardiness.

We have delayed launching these channels. I have no more details at this time.

http://www.stationindex.com/tv/markets/Charleston,+SC

is that link useful?

looking for help with knology clear qam channels

I have been able to find:
Fox 81.1
CBS 80.1
ABC 79.1

Some other random channels...
102.27 is this AtMax-Pay per the channel guide in media center?
91.10 appears to be some Starz channel I can't identify
102.26 no idea what this is
102.6 no idea what this is

I am trying to find NBC's clear QAM and any others. Also any help identifying 102.26 or 102.6?

I think different TV's may handle the station they tune differently. I know I had problems with Comcast way back when and I brought my TV to another fellow AVSForum member and that channel tuned in at his house on a different station than what his TV did. I may be wrong in my recollection, it has happened before (at least my wife tells me so).

Well it looks like TWC in our area is ready to switch from SARA to NAVIGATOR on the Scientific Atlanta STB's. We got a mailing announcing the change today, but it did not give a specific timetable for the SW download.

I will eventually go through the relevant threads in the SA8300 area (our STB), but if any of you in the area have recently been converted to Navigator, I'd appreciate your comments- good, bad, or ho-hum...

Thanks,
Mike

Anyone getting freezes in the picture on WTAT(sorry, wrote WTIT last night) tonight? Watching through Comcast and hoping I'm not getting signal drops again.

For some reason Comcast s blacking out the USC vs Oregon game on ESPN2HD (ch 404). It is being shown on the SD channel (ch 41). Called Comcast and they said thet were aware of the problem but did not know if or when it would be resolved.

The picture quality on the SD ch 42 is terrible!!

For some reason Comcast s blacking out the USC vs Oregon game on ESPN2HD (ch 404). It is being shown on the SD channel (ch 41). Called Comcast and they said thet were aware of the problem but did not know if or when it would be resolved.

The picture quality on the SD ch 42 is terrible!!

Same thing with Directv. It must be a ESPN thing.

I finally got around to troubleshooting my lack of VHF channels. It turns out it was my preamplifer (Channel Master 7775) that was UHF only. Going to switch to a 7777 model.

Same problem in Murrells Inlet. We had ESPN news on the HD channel and the game in SD on the SD channel

The ESPN2 problem sounds like it was on ESPN's side. I don't know how they "code" the transmission so that areas of the country get certain games or if the local cable company picks the "correct" feed. Anyhow it really sucks to have to watch it in SD especially with the quality of channel 42 (ESPN2) on Comcast.

Anyone know how all the network feed stuff works?

Has anyone noticed a signal drop with WCIV. I use to get them and for sometime now they don't come in here in Beaufort. I've done rescans and still can't get their signal. I get WCSC, WCBD, WTAT and WMMP 95% of the time.

It has been sucky at least in the evening. WCSC hasn't been much better. I record everything on my HTPC and a large percentage of WCIV ha sjust been unwatchable.

It has been sucky at least in the evening. WCSC hasn't been much better. I record everything on my HTPC and a large percentage of WCIV ha sjust been unwatchable.

Thanks, I sent a email to WCIV's engineer and will let you know when I hear back from him.

Anyone know how all the network feed stuff works?

Sure,
There were two 8pm ABC games. USC/Oregon and TX/Oklahoma State. In areas that were shown USC/Oregon on ABC, the TX/OSU game was available on ESPN2 HD. In areas, like ours, where we saw TX/OSU on ABC, the USC/Oregon was available on ESPN2 SD. This is due to a distribution limitation at ESPN where they can't send out two versions of ESPN2 in HD at the same time. They can regionalize the SD feeds, so the TX/OSU went to ESPN2 HD and SD in essentially all markets, but in markets where that game was on ABC (like ours), it was blacked out and the SD feed replaced with the USC/Oregon game.

Here's the ABC coverage map for 10/31
http://www.hdsportsguide.com/files/ABC1031800.jpg

And the map for the "Reverse Mirror" on ESPN2:
http://www.hdsportsguide.com/files/ESPN21031800.bmp

All, Sorry if this question is out of place for this board, but I am wondering what everyone else is paying for Cablecards from Comcast in Charleston? My rates seem extremely high using 2 cablecards in my Tivo HD unit...

First Cablecard = $16.95
Second Cablecard = $6.95

So I am paying $24 for 2 cablecards just to use them in my Tivo. It only costs me $23 to Rent a Comcast HD/DVR conerter box (which has a horrible, horrible interface).

Just wondering what pricing other folks are receiving, aside from any introductory deals that I am not eligible for.

jcvader99, don't know what version of Widows and PC you have but with Media Center for the One time cost of a couple of tuner cards you can watch/rec live TV with pause, Rew, Fwd and record another channel at the same time and with an EPG. What more does Tivo give you for the monthly charge? BTW you also can choose the interfaces for sound and video.

All, Sorry if this question is out of place for this board, but I am wondering what everyone else is paying for Cablecards from Comcast in Charleston? My rates seem extremely high using 2 cablecards in my Tivo HD unit...

First Cablecard = $16.95
Second Cablecard = $6.95

So I am paying $24 for 2 cablecards just to use them in my Tivo. It only costs me $23 to Rent a Comcast HD/DVR conerter box (which has a horrible, horrible interface).

Just wondering what pricing other folks are receiving, aside from any introductory deals that I am not eligible for.

When I had Charter cable they were $5.00 each per month. I changed to Directv about eight months ago.

Has anyone noticed a signal drop with WCIV. I use to get them and for sometime now they don't come in here in Beaufort. I've done rescans and still can't get their signal. I get WCSC, WCBD, WTAT and WMMP 95% of the time.


Some of our channels have dropped in quality also,,our cable comes from charter.

Some of our channels have dropped in quality also,,our cable comes from charter.

Can you give me your location?

Well it looks like TWC in our area is ready to switch from SARA to NAVIGATOR on the Scientific Atlanta STB's. We got a mailing announcing the change today, but it did not give a specific timetable for the SW download.

I will eventually go through the relevant threads in the SA8300 area (our STB), but if any of you in the area have recently been converted to Navigator, I'd appreciate your comments- good, bad, or ho-hum...

Thanks,
Mike
Given the date of your post, Mike, my comments may be a bit too late to be of much help. Never the less, I'll give you my impressions just in case you or someone else wants to know what to expect after the switch.

First off, if you happen to have an external hard drive hooked up (I have the Western Digital DVR Expander (http://www.wdc.com/en/products/Products.asp?DriveID=609)) do yourself a favor and follow the instructions to do a temporary shut down of the device as soon as you get the voicemail from TW. We received the mailing on the same day as the voicemail, but neither one indicated which day the switch would be taking place. If we would have been given a date range, I would have done the temporary shut down of the drive, just to be on the safe side.

Consequently, as luck would have it, the software download started while my wife was watching a recorded show. This caused the installation to hang. After waiting an hour she went to bed.

The next morning I found I was able to get some of the box's functions working, but DVR functions were definately hosed. I was on my way to work so didn't have much time to mess too much with it. My wife called TW support while I was at work, but the CSR wasn't able to get it working either. The CSR decided to roll a truck.

My wife didn't know that I had an idea for what would fix it (troubleshooting steps are in the Western Digital booklet) and that I wanted a chance to fix it before a TW tech could get to it. Unfortunately, I arrived home too late. The tech had never seen, or even heard of, an add-on hard drive before. As a result, he didn't follow the prescribed shut down sequence...he just started pulling cables out at random. Bottom line...we lost every bit of data...every single show (including the 3 hr Springsteen concert I'd been saving for just the right Sunday afternoon).

Unfortunately, I wish I could say that was the worst of it. The worst was yet to come. That moment arrived when we got a look at the new interface (Mystro, I believe). It is beyond horrible. It is beyond slow. The old interface was already terrible at letting the viewer see the program listings...but the new one shows even less....in fact MUCH less. I can't conceive of any reason anyone would design an interface that purposefully provides less information to the viewer than he or she was getting before. Actually, I don't think there are enough adjectives in the dictionary that can properly describe just how terrible this thing is.

We are so disappointed. We were very satisfied with our DVR service from TW, but now we are forced to look for an alternative. Actually, I logged in here to gather some info for the research I'm now forced to do. Don't know if it's going to be TIVO, a HTPC (which I know very little about), or DirectTV...but I do know that it's certainly not going to be TW's poor excuse of a DVR interface. I think they have most definately shot themselves in the foot on this one.

What is Mystro? Do you mean Navigator? It is working quite well for me. I especially like the fast forward and auto skip back.

Given the date of your post, Mike, my comments may be a bit too late to be of much help. Never the less, I'll give you my impressions just in case you or someone else wants to know what to expect after the switch.

First off, if you happen to have an external hard drive hooked up (I have the Western Digital DVR Expander (http://www.wdc.com/en/products/Products.asp?DriveID=609)) do yourself a favor and follow the instructions to do a temporary shut down of the device as soon as you get the voicemail from TW. We received the mailing on the same day as the voicemail, but neither one indicated which day the switch would be taking place. If we would have been given a date range, I would have done the temporary shut down of the drive, just to be on the safe side.

Consequently, as luck would have it, the software download started while my wife was watching a recorded show. This caused the installation to hang. After waiting an hour she went to bed.

The next morning I found I was able to get some of the box's functions working, but DVR functions were definately hosed. I was on my way to work so didn't have much time to mess too much with it. My wife called TW support while I was at work, but the CSR wasn't able to get it working either. The CSR decided to roll a truck.

My wife didn't know that I had an idea for what would fix it (troubleshooting steps are in the Western Digital booklet) and that I wanted a chance to fix it before a TW tech could get to it. Unfortunately, I arrived home too late. The tech had never seen, or even heard of, an add-on hard drive before. As a result, he didn't follow the prescribed shut down sequence...he just started pulling cables out at random. Bottom line...we lost every bit of data...every single show (including the 3 hr Springsteen concert I'd been saving for just the right Sunday afternoon).

Unfortunately, I wish I could say that was the worst of it. The worst was yet to come. That moment arrived when we got a look at the new interface (Mystro, I believe). It is beyond horrible. It is beyond slow. The old interface was already terrible at letting the viewer see the program listings...but the new one shows even less....in fact MUCH less. I can't conceive of any reason anyone would design an interface that purposefully provides less information to the viewer than he or she was getting before. Actually, I don't think there are enough adjectives in the dictionary that can properly describe just how terrible this thing is.

We are so disappointed. We were very satisfied with our DVR service from TW, but now we are forced to look for an alternative. Actually, I logged in here to gather some info for the research I'm now forced to do. Don't know if it's going to be TIVO, a HTPC (which I know very little about), or DirectTV...but I do know that it's certainly not going to be TW's poor excuse of a DVR interface. I think they have most definately shot themselves in the foot on this one.

I think you will be quite happy with Directv. The boxes are a little slow for some, but it is getting better all the time. Also, if you have your home networked, the upcoming Multi Room Viewing is just awesome. I am beta testing it now and it is almost ready. My wife, who is hard to please, has said she does not want to change providers. As far as the speed, I have never seen TWC, but once you get use to it, it is just fine. The features of the DVR are great and they are adding features all the time. The picture quality of the HD channels are very good and they should be adding more HD at the first of the year. PM me if you want a referral that will net you $10 off for 10 months.

Yesterday I bought a new HDTV (Sony Bravia 46") and a Sony Blu Ray. I had intended to buy the Samsung 46", 120Hz, but Best Buy had a package deal (both tv and blu ray) for a little less than the Samsung.....

So I made an impulse buy. I sure hope I didnt make a mistake. Anyone out there have any good thoughts about Sony. A little too late I know, but just wondering. The TV will be delivered Wednesday.

This is replace my 5 year old 42" Panasonic rear projection LCD that was state of the art for about 5 minutes :)... It only had one HDMI input and no HD tuner so had to hook to cable to get HD. It finally gave up the ghost when I started getting color blotches all over the screen.