Finally moved and settled into our new home in Summerville. Love the TWC "Speed Of Light" package. So long DirecTV :)

I watched the third period last night and I didn't notice focus issues so it looks like it is cleaned up. Nice to hear that they responded to you Mark, I never heard back from them....

Andy

Originally posted by AndrewG
I watched the third period last night and I didn't notice focus issues so it looks like it is cleaned up. Nice to hear that they responded to you Mark, I never heard back from them....


I hope that's true. I didn't get to watch game 7 at home last night, but the softening every time they seemed to change camera angles was really annoying and wasn't present on the ESPN HD broadcasts.

Too bad it was only caught at the end of the NHL Finals - I don't care much about the basketball.

COMCAST Channel 172 is the Turner South HD feed for the Atlanta Braves games and there should still be around 46 games to be broadcast.

The next game will be on the 15th.


patyoung: I feel the same way about the basketball...... don't have as much free time or I might have caught it earlier. Great series. My sister and brother in law were at the game last night.

Originally posted by JeffD
Either way it's an added bonus the more HD the better !

Agreed, I am not holding my breath for Comcast to add other new stations, but they must get this when they got Turner South. However, what they need to carry is NESN HD to get all the Red Sox games in HD :D

Found some information on the tower build-out for WCBD. Don't get excited though because I didn't find a completion date.

NBC Channel 50 is expected to have a broadcast power of 1000kW (for reference same as CBS's).
FOX Channel 40 is expected to have a broadcast power of 400kW (similar to ABC's)
UPN Channel 35 is expected to have a broadcast power of 46kW (Yes forty six)

If you want to see a contour map of the expected range, go to my website at www.markuyak.com/schdtv/schdtv.htm and either click-on or download the file containing the range info.

Ktrout great information! I was wondering if you had any information on Knology and what HDTV channels they offer. I didn't see that info on your site. My new house is in Coosaw Creek so I will have all 3 cable companies as an option.

Im really enjoying my 8000 HD box from TWC. Is it suposed to run as hot as it does?

Originally posted by shuttermaker
Im really enjoying my 8000 HD box from TWC. Is it suposed to run as hot as it does?


Without knowing how hot yours is running - I will go out on a limb and say yes because they do run hot. Its best not to put anything on top of the unit and in fact make sure you have plenty of space above it. I have about 8 inches clearance on mine.

Knology does have HD service. Could someone please let me know what's offered and on what channel and I'll add it to my site. Otherwise I'll give them a call.

Knology's HD service is on the 900's and has the following channels:

902__WCSC-DT 5 (CBS)
904__WITV-DT 7 (PBS)

High Definition TV:
911__ESPN HD
913__Discovery HD Theater
921__HBO HDTV
926__STARZ! HD


I have Comcast, but I know these are current. No word about adding ABC (or NBC).

Thanks Andrew

Good Morning,

TWCSC is happy to announce the broadcast of the following Atlanta Braves games in HD. These games will air on HD Special Events channel 813 (in case of conflict 814).

The games are available in the Greater Columbia area, Sumter area, Orangeburg area, Florence area and Upgraded areas of Summerville only. (If Turner South is part of your Basic Cable line up - and you have been upgraded in Summerville, you get the HD).

Turner South Broadcasts

15-Jun 7:30pm Kansas City Royals
17-Jun 1:00pm Kansas City Royals
18-Jun 7:30pm Cleveland Indians
19-Jun 7:00pm Cleveland Indians
20-Jun 1:00pm Cleveland Indians
29-Jun 7:30pm Florida Marlins
3-Jul 7:00pm Boston Red Sox
15-Jul 7:30pm Montreal Expos
16-Jul 7:30pm Montreal Expos
17-Jul 7:00pm Montreal Expos
19-Jul 7:30pm Philadelphia Phillies
20-Jul 7:30pm Philadelphia Phillies
30-Jul 7:30pm New York Mets
31-Jul 7:00pm New York Mets
10-Aug 7:30pm Milwaukee Brewers
24-Aug 7:30pm Colorado Rockies
7-Sep 7:30pm Philadelphia Phillies
11-Sep 7:00pm Montreal Expos
21-Sep 7:30pm Cincinnati Reds
25-Sep 7:00pm Florida Marlins
28-Sep 7:30pm New York Mets


TBS Broadcasts

28-Jun 7:30pm Florida Marlins
1-Jul 7:30pm Florida Marlins
2-Jul 7:30pm Boston Red Sox
4-Jul 1:00pm Boston Red Sox
18-Jul 1:00pm Montreal Expos
22-Jul 1:00pm Pittsburg Pirates
1-Aug 1:00pm New York Mets
12-Aug 7:30pm Milwaukee Brewers
13-Aug 7:30pm St. Louis Cardinals
15-Aug 1:00pm St. Louis Cardinals
26-Aug 7:30pm Colorado Rockies
27-Aug 7:30pm San Francisco Giants
29-Aug 1:00pm San Francisco Giants
30-Aug 1:00pm San Francisco Giants
6-Sep 1:00pm Philadelphia Phillies
9-Sep 7:30pm Philadelphia Phillies
10-Sep 7:30pm Montreal Expos
12-Sep 1:00pm Montreal Expos
23-Sep 7:30pm Cincinnati Reds
24-Aug 7:30pm Florida Marlins
26-Sep 1:00pm Florida Marlins
27-Sep 7:30pm New York Mets

Diana thanks for the update on the Braves but how about the Cubs?

WGN in Chicago is offering HD. :D

Originally posted by Telcomguy
Diana thanks for the update on the Braves but how about the Cubs?

WGN in Chicago is offering HD. :D


I haven't seen anything on WGN in HD and I don't know the status of any negotiations with my Corporate Programming group -

sorry, I appear to be clueless on this one.

At this point I think the HD feeds from WGN are OTA and I don't know if they are broadcasting via cable in HD. I was really just making a joke as I am a Cubs fan but will watch the braves if I have too. :)

Gotcha -

As a University of Illinois Graduate and resident of the state for 11 years, I was lucky enough to see the Cubs beat the Braves in the first playoff game last year. It was the best live sporting event I had been to in a long time.

Diana......I am glad to see someone who might be able to answer my question participates on this forum. I am moving into a fairly new neighborhood(Summerhaven) in Summerville. I have tried to look at the TWCSC web site and the upgrade map, but they don't even have our neighborhood listed on the map. I know TWC is the provider. Is there anyway I can find out when or if this area will be upgraded. My decision on either getting cable or Sat for HD upon move in depends on the upgrade, so I would like to have some idea.Thanks

Please email me the street address and I can look it up - thanks!

email is twcscnews@twcable.com

Good Morning,

Time Warner Cable of South Carolina is pleased to announce the addition of MLS games to the programming line-up on INHD. Please be aware, blackouts are required on INHD for MLS games to protect the local distribution market of the teams playing. These games will generally be available on that team’s Regional Sports Network, or team affiliated OTA station (in standard and/or high definition), and/or on MLS DIRECT KICK Sports Package. Blackouts are determined by MLS and the team’s local broadcaster.

Blackouts will be determined and announced several days prior to the game broadcast. Please check local listings for game availability in your area.

INHD is available on the HD Tier in upgraded areas of Summerville.

Diana, where can I get info on the new INHD channels and does my area have to be upgraded to get the additional HD channels?

Also, it's good to here you guys are getting the other local channels in HD.

Yes you must be upgraded to get the new HD channels. If you email your address to twcscnews@twcable.com I can look it up for you.

I'm not sure what you mean by getting the other local channels in HD - I didn't announce anything like that?

http://www.inhd.com provides a good overview on IN HD 1 & IN HD 2

http://www.hd.net does the same for HD Net and HD Net Movies

Ktrout,

I noticed you list CBS and PBS as 5.1. Is it only certain programs that broadcast in 5.1? ABC is always 5.1 for me when I go to my digital audio, but only get 2.0 for other stations. This always blows my mind why they do that, why not broadcast at least a Pro logic digital signal rather than 2.0.




Will motion in HD ever get better as the years go on. What I mean is the pixelation of movement. I notice this a lot in the PBS HD programs. Nature shots look awesome then they show a bird in flight and I see every pixel.

lancer1991: yes only certain shows broadcast in 5.1. ABC probably does the most 5.1 broadcasting, but unless its a movie or sporting event you don't get a lot on the surrounds, that's my experience at least. CBS, to my knowledge, has only used their 5.1 capability on a few sporting events (Final Four, Masters)..... I don't think their sitcoms are broadcast that way.

I'm pretty sure PBS broadcasts in 1080i, which supposively doesn't do as well with motion as 720p. I haven't had the time or desire to do a side by side comparison, so I can't really tell you first hand if it's true or not.

Originally posted by lancer1991
Ktrout,

I noticed you list CBS and PBS as 5.1. Is it only certain programs that broadcast in 5.1? ABC is always 5.1 for me when I go to my digital audio, but only get 2.0 for other stations. This always blows my mind why they do that, why not broadcast at least a Pro logic digital signal rather than 2.0.

The local ABC station shows (broadcasts) a 5.1 signal all the time, however, rarely, (Live sporting events, NBA, NHL, are two exceptions) broadcasting true 5.1 sound, i.e. not 5 active channels. This can actually be a problem for people when your DD receiver locks into the 5.1 mode, and sometimes there is only one or two channels. What you want is a 2.0 signal when normal programming is on, because that 2 channel signal is what your DD processor uses to make Pro Logic. There is no such thing as a Prologic digital signal, the Prologic surround info is contained in the two channels, but for people with just stereo then it also works without a hitch. CBS seems to understand this, not surprisingly they are the most on top of things locally, and you typically get 2.0 on your receiver, but for things like the SuperBowl they switch to 5.1 because it exist at the source.



Will motion in HD ever get better as the years go on. What I mean is the pixelation of movement. I notice this a lot in the PBS HD programs. Nature shots look awesome then they show a bird in flight and I see every pixel. [/B]

This pixelation effect is a problem with our local PBS station (and many other PBS stations that multicast) because they are using their OTA channel bandwidth to broadcast PBSHD, and 2 SD digital stations. What you see are compression artifacts because of the limited bandwidth. This is not an issue with HD programming overall. As Ktrout mentioned some people say 720p is better for action, but you don't see any issues with WCSC (CBS broadcasting at 1080i) during the NCAA finals or the Superbowl, because they dedicate all of their allocated bandwidth to the HD station. HD might get better, but what you are seeing is not a limitation of the current HD technology just how PBS utilizes their digital spectrum.

Andy

Thanks Andy for your detailed response. The odd thing is I tend to get a louder signal when I use the rca's over the digital signal when 2.0 is displayed.

I think Comcast or PBS has done something to our feed other than multicasting. I think PBS been multicasting for a while but only recently has it begun to look really bad. I also get a lot more glitches in the audio and some MPEG blocking on the other HD channels. I wonder if they have allocated less bandwidth to the HD channels to make room for more channels (Braves and CinemaxHD).

Now that there is a rumored agreement between Discovery HD and Comcast is there any word on getting it here in Charleston? I know it took forever for them to get CinemaxHD up after that agreement.

-Brian

Diana, I was wondering if you know of the possiblitly of Time Warner adding ESPN HD service any time soon?

BTW trying to get hooked up at the house but the agents say the system is down. :(



Thanks

Deon

I can't make a guess on the timeline for ESPN-HD - sorry, but I have no control over the situation so I'm not willing to guess...


"The system is down." You mean there is storm outage now so they didn't take an order, or that we don't service your area?

Diana,

Is there a contact that you know of to voice our request for ESPN HD?

Mike

I'm you contact and I hear it loud and clear

Diana,

Im sure all of us TWC customers in this forum are very happy to have an ear to speak to. As long as you're listening :)...any word on the NFL Network? Its only carried by DirecTV at the moment. I do know that Comcast is in negotiations. Would love to have that as an option...hope im not in the minority on this one.

Mike

TWC Corporate is also in negotiations for the NFL Network and we have told them we would love to launch the service in the SC system areas.

Apologizes for the lack of Braves in HD in Florece and Summerville last night. The Engineers have worked on both all afternoon and claim everything is fixed and ready to go for tomorrows 1pm game.

I do not have HD in my office (what's up with that!) - so please if anyone has trouble post right away!

Diana:
While I do not live in your cable area, I have appreciated your comments and forthright nature in addressing issues that arise from time to time. In fact, they should include you as the best "NO DTV or DISH program", since you address issues before customers get fed up and leave for the SATS! Having said that, I think that before you can manage a program you must get the program. That way when it goes SOUTH, you will be on top of things and experience it first hand. I know they have monitors in place, but you are the line of communications for TWCS in the Summerville area. Your question of "Whats up with that?" While said in jest, it is a legitimate question. So when can we expect the new Plasma in your office???? Thanks for taking the time to address this forum.
HDSC

A new plasma in my office.... it would be great, but not very soon - However, there is a Plasma in a conference room on another floor and I also have HD at home, so I can actually can monitor it.

Considering my current situation with recent knee surgery, I'm not getting around as well as under normal circumstances, so I need to owe up to a certain degree of laziness on my part for not going downstairs at 1:00 to check it myself.

Thanks for the kind words and support for my 'needs'.

Diana....Sorry I didn't get back to you sooner, I was in Atlanta. The name of the road we will be living on is Towering Pine Drive or Road, I'm not positive. It is in a new neighborhoos called Summerhaven. The sales agent said it has only been about six months since TWC put there equipment in the ground!

weezer: I have some answers regarding your inquiries regarding COMCAST Programming. Yes, COMCAST did reach an agreement with DISCOVERY and our local group here is actively pursuing bringing it online. I don't have a timetable, but it's definitely coming.

Secondly, they are not reducing bandwidth to accommodate the additional channels, they actually reduced the number of Pay Per View channels to make room for the new HD channels.

Patriots - Summerhaven is upgraded, so you should be good to go.

Have a great weekend

Hi everyone,

I just moved from Mississippi to Johns Island, and I just wanted take a current "inventory" of the OTA DTV/HDTV offerings. I am off River Rd., about a mile from Maybank (Zip 29455), with no significant obstruction between my house and James Island/West Ashley. With a Silver Sensor on the second floor and a Zenith DTV1080, I can reliably get:

NBC 2-1
ABC 4-1
CBS 5-1, 2
PBS 29-1, 2, 3

I am showing no signal from FOX. Antennaweb.org says that I am 13.7 miles away from the antenna. Is this to be expected? I know going to a larger/outdoor antenna might help, but it troubles me that I don't show any signal strength for FOX.

Also, are there any other OTA channels I'm missing? Thanks for the help and for being a great resource!

-f4

F4: Welcome to Charleston and we're glad you found the forum.

You are not alone being troubled by not finding any signal from FOX. But most of us are in the same boat. FOX broadcasts their "digital" signal at a whopping 3.6kW from only 154' and therefore most of us can't get it. However, you are close enough that you might be able to with the correct orientation and/or external antenna and amplifier.

This is a link to a map on my website showing where their broadcast originates. http://www.markuyak.com/schdtv/antennas.htm It might help you find it from where you live. However, I would not expect much as I believe they will not be broadcasting anything HD until permanent facilities are completed in approximately 16 months (That's a completely different story). Same thing for UPN and I don't remember if they're broadcasting now or not.
(Can somebody pick me up on UPN's status?)

Fox is DTV Channel 40, UPN is DTV Channel 35.

Good luck.

Someone PLEASE help ! Received my father's day gift a little early, a Samsung 165 and a amplified Terk, ( which I promptly went to Sears for a Silver Sensor).The apparatus sits on top of my TV. I live off of Longpoint Rd. in Mount Pleasant. Anyway, with the Terk i can receive all fairly well, in the 40-60% range. With the Silver Sensor about the same but WCSC only comes in around 50% and very frequently drops out completely, all I get is a NO SIGNAL! Why in the world would I have a decent signal then nothing?
I need to get this right by Thursday so she can watch CSI and more importantly, give her the satisfaction that she gave me a wonderful Fathers Day present.
I have followed the great advise you guys give here and think this is the best place to start. Many at the retail stores think I'm talking Latin or something.
Thanks so much in advance.

loadams: We all understand the need to justify our expensive toys to our better halves, and I liked your angle about making sure she got satisfaction from giving you a great gift......

Anyway... I'm not the best OTA reception guy here on the forum but lets see if I can start things off.

I would start by trying to properly orient your antenna. This might eliminate some multipath issues you might be having now.
Since you live on Longpoint you should have the antenna aimed ENE (67 Deg.) for WCSC, WCIV and PBS. Unfortunately, WCBD is almost the other direction and you need to point it SSE (219 Deg.) for it.

If this doesn't work, you might need to consider an amplifier. But lets hold off on that for now. See if that helps at all and let us know.

Have a good Fathers day.

Thanks Ktrout, last night seemed much better, watched "Thirteen Days" on Wcsc
with a very steady signal. My family got a pretty good laugh watching me "turn the ears" to get a good signal.
My concern yesterday was I am able to lock in even a weak signal from WCBD with no dropouts at all, and Ive read where you can get WCSC with a paper clip, but no amount of aiming the antenna was working without a signal loss from 70% to zero. I'm gonna rig up something to get the antenna up a little higher, should probably get another good laugh from that.
Thanks for your response. I'll look at the maps today and fine tune. Happy Fathers Day to all out there !

Originally posted by loadams
The apparatus sits on top of my TV. I live off of Longpoint Rd. in Mount Pleasant. Anyway, with the Terk i can receive all fairly well, in the 40-60% range. With the Silver Sensor about the same but WCSC only comes in around 50% and very frequently drops out completely, all I get is a NO SIGNAL! Why in the world would I have a decent signal then nothing?
.

I live in Brickyard which is probably pretty close to you and I have a Silver Sensor in my attic. At some point I may try to go outside since I have metal foil covered roof sheathing and spray foam insulation in the way that makes alll kinds of signals inside the house problematic. Anyway, even with that less than ideal situation, I get ABC, NBC, CBS and PBS pretty reliably. The big key was getting the silver sensor aimed properly while flipping through those receivevable channels (I give up a touch on CBS, but still high 80s to get CBD in the 70s). And definitely the higher you can get that antenna the better. This aiming is also a great way for your wife to help you out here as she tells you the numbers while you are crouched in the attic!

Thanks Pat, Im gonna try to get it in the attic this week, maybe a run of 50 ft. or so. Ive got a RS 10db amp laying around somewhere, might come in handy. Ktrout, will let u know how that works.
Thanks again guys and do you think I have any chance of getting my wife in the attic? Better leave that one alone...........

loadams: Make sure you use RG-6 Coax cable if at all possible. If it doesn't say RG-6, it probably isn't.

Just a quick rant...

What's with all these "agreements" that have to be made to get more HD channels? For instance, Discovery HD, HDNet, and for ***** sake, can Comcast get NBC already? Someone mentioned that it took forever for Comcast to obtain rights to broadcast CinemaxHD... Well Comcast already offered regular Cinemax, right? So what's the big deal? I'm just a bit pissed though because I'd really like to see the Olympics in all of it's glory.

Originally posted by dolemite77
Just a quick rant...

What's with all these "agreements" that have to be made to get more HD channels? For instance, Discovery HD, HDNet, and for ***** sake, can Comcast get NBC already? Someone mentioned that it took forever for Comcast to obtain rights to broadcast CinemaxHD... Well Comcast already offered regular Cinemax, right? So what's the big deal? I'm just a bit pissed though because I'd really like to see the Olympics in all of it's glory.


My impression from reading other parts of this forum as well as hearing from folks local is that Comcast doesn't want to pay to carry certain stations or wants to pay a minimum and a major reason is that they don't have a HD tier. They give it to you "free" with the HD box rental. Some other cable companies have pricing levels that include a HD premium so they get money to help pay for HD programming. I think the agreements are on two levels. First, a national agreement is typical for things like DiscoveryHD, and now that it is place it is a matter of local Comcast freeing up space. The second type is like what we have with Charleston Comcast (and TWC, I think as well) trying to negotiate with Media General, the company that owns WCBD our NBC affiliate and then it gets back to paying a minimum to broadcast. It would seem that if WCBD is going to the effort to transmit a weak digital signal they would want it seen by as many people as possible.

I am not defending Comcast's business policy, it's what they think is best, but I know that at least currently they are not using the pricing tier, but that of course comes at a "price" to us that includes slower rollout of HD channels.

On your other issue of the Olympics, I was excited about seeing it in HD as well, but I have read on this forum (and of course it may still change) that they were going to tape delay the HD coverage up to 24 hours, I forget what the reasoning was. But NBC is not exactly on the cutting edge for HD or sports coverage.

Now my rant mode on: Did anyone try to watch the U.S. Open on NBC. It was terrible, they have all these "special interest" stories about the Hamptons, etc, the golf was a second thought, makes me appreciate CBS's golf coverage. I guess NBC was practicing for the Olympics, you know minimum sports, lots of side stories, small coverage blocks of different sports.

Rant mode off.

Andy

As stated before and touched on by Andy, Local COMCAST and WCBD are not the players in bringing WCBD-DT to cable. WCBD's parent company Media General owns 20 or so stations (Not all NBC affiliates by the way) and they have not reached an agreement with COMCAST anywhere for carriage.

I suggest that you contact Media General Broadcasting Group and express your displeasure.

I'm not happy about it either, but as Andy also points out I don't have a good feeling about NBC's HD coverage in general and I don't know that seeing the pool where Michael Phelps learned to swim in HD will do much for me.

Here's Media General's contact page.
http://www.mgbg.com/staff.shtml
Email and phone numbers for everyone.

-Brian

Don't mean to change the subject here, but many thanks to all in helping me set up my first HD experience.

I wound up taking the Samsung165 back, found out the dropouts on WCSC were caused by the Samsung not being able to decode "broadcast flags" properly. It seems they have not updated the firmware on OTA sets, but sat users are fine because Dish and DirectTV automatically downloaded the update for their users.

Anyway, purchased a Moto HDT-100 and everything is performing flawlessly.

Pat, I mounted my SS outside under my eave, it's upside down but works great.

Ktrout, used a 10db RS amp with RG-6 as you advised, working perfect.

And no, I did not get my wife in the attic !!!!

Does anyone know if there will ever be a broadcast WB station in Charleston? I can receive all the other digital stations (except UPN). Yes, I can receive Fox in digital (sometimes better than others).

I don't even really care if it is HD (although that would be nice).

Thanks,
David

I had contacted the WB some time ago and they told me that it was highly unlikely they would ever do an OTA station in Charleston. They said it might change as the rules for how many owned and opertated allowed them to have more stations, but it would seem to be some time before they would get to a market as small as ours.

I'm happy to report that work has begun at WCBD's tower in Awendaw.

I don't have a timeline for when their work will be finished.
I don't know if WTAT has started working out there yet or when they plan to finish either.

But, I'm pretty sure that at least WCBD will be broadcasting from there A LOT sooner than what we previously thought. And that's a good thing.

It will be nice to have the last big "3" affiliate to give us a decent signal. If they show it, we will come. I think this digital thing is gonna work out after all.
HDSC

Well I have my TV hanging on the wall and I am paitently waiting for TW's technicians to get my house hooked up. It is killing me as I need VPN access for work and I have not had it for almost 2 weeks. :( Oh and haveing a HDTV w/out HD signals is killing me too. :)

I am suppose to have the boring crew out to my house to bore under my driveway to get the feed into my house tomorrow.

Is anyone else having audio problems with OTA 4-1? I noticed that it is no longer showing up DD5.1 on my receiver and the audio is at an extremely low level compared to the other stations.

Yes, noticed it also. Sending e-mail this morning to station.

While I'm here, is anyone getting any guide information from WCBD-DT?

Also having audio problems with 4-1. Last night, the opening of "According to Jim" was coming thru fine until the first scene, then sounded like only surround was being passed.

No info guide on 2-1 here, was wondering if any noticed if 2-1 has dropped their power late at night, received a no signal last nite on Leno.

Didn't notice drop in power, but wasn't up either.

Has anyone received guide information on 2-1 at any time?

Kinda quiet in here Happy 4TH of July (though its late) :)

Well I've got good and bad news.

FOX will be capable of broadcasting in HD here locally prior to moving permanently to the Awendaw facility. They still need the receivers from National FOX but once they are in hand, they can put HD OTA, albeit still at Low Power from their current location. So if you get Channel 40 now, it's entirely possible that you will see some NFL games and the World Series this year in HD.

Unfortunately the earliest the build out in Awendaw would take place is late December / early January where they could go high power. Thus, the Superbowl is not dead for those outside of Channel 40's current range. However, we must keep in mind that all things must go well for this to happen and there's a lot more that could go wrong than right.

But, it's encouraging that they are trying to get into the game.

Mark

Anyone ever get 9.1? I just moved my Silver Sensor to the attic and I'm getting intermittent broadcasts. It looks like ABC out of Orlando. Also has radar broadcast on .2 like our CBS. I'm just off Folly Rd about 3 miles from the beach.

Ol Jim mentioned getting some stations out of Orlando before, but I've never heard about anyone from up this way getting it.

Only get about a 50% signal strength, but at that direction I loose strength on ABC and NBC. Only if I could get CBS another CBS during football and I could have an option of what games to watch.

Anyone up on different OTA antennas? I'm curious if anyone has had any luck with other antennas on James Island getting FOX or UPN.

I'm pretty sure "LngdnAlger" also has a silver sensor in the attic. "Shuttermaker" used to live on James Island and had a CM 4228, but then he moved to S'ville. But he could probably let you know what he was getting before he left.

I was on Johns Island and had 100% signal on WCSC

90% on WCIV

65 - 75% on WCBD

Fox and UPN were almost non-existent. CM 4228 with an amplifier

Thanks guys. I guess I'll cross my fingers on FOX getting their new tower up faster as it looks like even an amplified antenna doesn't work (I know I could always get HD through Comcast, but that would mean paying for most of the channels I already get for free).

Is there any way to run 2 antennas on the same TV via a splitter? I noticed while moving the Silver Sensor around just a fraction changed the signal strength (my TV only gives me bars, no percentage on signal strength) on one channel while increasing another. Just thought maybe 2 could be installed in different directions.

I am in Florence, and I picked up WFTV-39 (9) from Orlando on May 28th. Funny thing was I was using the Silver Sensor pointed out of my window, and it picked up that station better when it was pointed North instead of South. (I was moving it around scanning...). I get WCSC-DT and WITV most nights here, and have picked up WCIV a few times.
(Put up two antennas and use an A/B switch, that's what I do.)

I live downtown on Limehouse St. and was wondering what OTA channels I could get. I looked at the charts on Ktrout's website, but I'm still not sure. Right now I just have Comcast HD, but am looking to get into OTA for the Olympics. I know I should be able to get NBC since it's right across the bridge, but is Fox within reach from where I am? Thanks!

Good Afternoon,

Turner Networks has just alerted us to the fact that the scheduled Braves Game in HD for Saturday, July 17th WILL NOT BE in HD. This is a technical issue on their end and they apologize for any inconvenience.

Tonights game will be in HD.

For the first time ever, Time Warner Cable will provide a Live High Definition PPV event. Mike Tyson (50-4-44 KOs) will fight the current International Heavyweight Champion Danny Williams (31-3-26 KOs). The fight will be aired live from Freedom Hall Arena in Louisville, Kentucky.

· Friday, July 30 at 9:00 pm eastern time
· Special Events HD Channel 814
· $44.95

The fight will be available via an impulse buy on Channel 814 as of Wednesday, July 28th. Just tune to Channel 814 and press the B button on your remote.

This event will only be available in upgraded areas of Summerville. For those of you who have received a letter indicated your upgrade is scheduled for the week of August 3rd, we are trying to push as many areas as possible into the week of the 26th. Please check your Interactive Program Guide on Wednesday the 28th to see if the fight is available on Channel 814.

Good Morning,

I'm headed to the airport for a Cable Marketing conference. I will not be checking the Forum while I'm out, so please contact customer service if you have an urgent issue with your service.

I'll be back online next Saturday - take care and have a great week,

Where is everyone? I had a question a few posts above if anyone could help me with that, that would be great! Couple more questions:

1- I have the comcast HD service with the Explorer 3250 HD. I didn't think it was possible, but the guy at Circuit City said I don't need an additional box for OTA. He said I can just plug in an antenna to the 3250. Not true, right?

2- Also, how is the Samsung SIR-T151 OTA receiver?


This one. (http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=61396&item=5710908982&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW)

I can get it for about 140, is that a good deal? Thanks!

Dolemite: Uh, Circuit City strikes again. You are correct, it is not possible.

I don't know anything about the Samsung, but $140 is a pretty good price I would think. (The link didn't work for me by the way).

freakin eBay.... i tried to edit it. Is there no way to post links to ebay auctions now?? anyway, here's the link cut n paste...

http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=61396&item=5710908982&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW


that is some bull sh@!!! let's see if this works...

http://****/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=61396&item=5710908982&rd=1&ssPageName=WDVW

replace **** with cgi.*********


oh my gosh, ebay sucks! why are they doing this? cgi.*********

cgi . ebay . com

I have the 151, works for me. And that is a good price

dolemite - http://www.samsungusa.com/stb_upgrade/

Thanks for the replies guys. Hey, does anyone have any experience with the DISH Network in Charleston? They're offering a pretty nice promo right now, and was wondering if i should ditch Comcast for Dish. Comcast's rates are so high in comparison...

Originally posted by dolemite77
Thanks for the replies guys. Hey, does anyone have any experience with the DISH Network in Charleston? They're offering a pretty nice promo right now, and was wondering if i should ditch Comcast for Dish. Comcast's rates are so high in comparison...

I have always been a DirecTV user and that works well for me. Dish just started offering the local channels in Charleston. Its nice to be recognized, but given that 3 of the main network are broadcasting digital, I wouldn't use the Sat to get them anyway. If they offered a WB, then I might pay for that.

I am also a Directv subscriber, but I have a friend with Dish. Unfortunately (for me anyway) Dish subscribers can get WB (and UPN) as part of the superstation package. He even gets them in multiple timezones. I already called Directv and they said that don't have something like the superstation package, nor will they.

Maybe if more Directv subscribers call and ask they may offer it. Especially if we tell them that Dish has it, why don't they.

Barring that, I really wish that Charleston had a WB broadcast station. Of course I also wish that FOX and UPN would up their power. I can get FOX (WTATDT) watchable, but UPN is always about 13% signal strength and not watchable.

David

P.S. In case you are wondering I live just the other side of the airport from FOX's tower which probably explains why I can receive it :-)

At onetime I was able to receive Fox with my silver sensor in Goose Creek . Ever since Comcast went with HD I haven't tried to pick it up . Maybe I should try to get my Zenith receiver and silver sensor and try again . That's if I can get it from my little brother who is using them both right now until cable is put in his neighborhood .

Any ideas or info on trading in my Comcast 3100 box for a 3250? Comcast has not been helpful. Thanks!

Hey Dolemite77,

Look into Voom. I dropped Dishnetwork for the sorry overcompressed SD signal and lack of HD channels. www.voom.com

The race from Louden, NH will be on TNT HD (I hope it's true HD). My VOOM program guide shows that it is.

free on showtime HD

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

just received email back from voom
---------------------------------------------------------------
Response (Meagan J.) - 07/21/2004 10:12 AM
Thank you for contacting VOOM.
I am happy to say that you have been correctly informed. The Tyson
fight will be free to all existing VOOM members and it will be televised in
HD. It will be broadcasting on Showtime HD. If you have any further
questions please give us a call at 1-800-GET-VOOM and once again thank you
for contacting VOOM - HDTV Delivered!
Joseph T. Grant
VOOM Email Support

Helpful Links displayed on website on - 07/21/2004 12:53 AM
-


Customer (BRYAN) - 07/21/2004 12:53 AM
Is it true that Voom is going to carry the Tyson fight on July 30th? Is
it also true that this will be free and in HD?

Thanks

Just saw the fight, free courtesy of Voom. Williams K.O.d Tyson in the fourth.
Thank You Voom!!! The PQ was awesome. You HD guys should look into Voom. They rock!!!

Hi all!

I recently purchased the Samsung SIRT351 for OTA reception. I also purchased the Terk HDTVI antenna. I live in upper Mt. Pleasant, near Awendaw. When I tried it out, it kept stating "No Signal", no matter what I tried. I live in a three story house and tried everything from taking the antenna outside and up on the roof. I brought that antenna back to Circuit City and they suggested the Terk TV55. When I drove all the way back to Mt. P, the same thing happened. I then took the tuner and antenna to a friends house to see if I could get any reception there--no luck. I assumed the tuner was defective, so I took it back to Circuit City to explain my problems. They "tested" the tuner out and "agreed" that it was defective and let me swap it out for another one. Once again when I got home, no signal. I was getting annoyed this evening so I took the tuner and antenna with me in the car to various places in Chas. to see if I could get any reception--no luck. The guy at Circuit City suggested that I may be too close to the towers in Awendaw--that doesn't sound right to me. Any suggestions would be helpful!!! Should I go back to Circuit City tomorrow and get the Motorola model that they have. How about the Silver Sensor antenna that I've read about?? From all that I've read, Channel 5 is so powerful that I should be able to use a paper clip from this distance to the tower.

Thanks in advance,
Greg

Ive never heard of being "too close" to an antenna. Wouldnt hurt to try the Moto...since the Samsung failed twice. And ive had my best experiences with a Channel Master 4228 antenna.

Look in the main menu, setup, scan channels, make sure you are scanning for OTA and not cable.

I returned a 165 for a Moto 100, seems to lock better, not quite as buggy.
They have the smaller 101 if space is a problem but they don't carry it in the store, I think next day shipping or something like that.

From where you are, your hair should be on fire. I'm in Longpoint and get good reception with a Moto100 and a Silver Sensor, can lock everything except Fox & Upn. Even with the Terk, you should be getting something.

If the 351 is like the 151, just enter the DTV ch and it will take care of them
punch in 47 for 5-1 34 for 4-1 50 for 2-1 49 for PBS 40 for 24-1 and 36 for 36-1
DO NOT spend any money on a TERK ant, they are JUNK

Diana,

I see that TNT-HD is listed on my cable box on channel 840. Is there any word on when TNT-HD will be broadcast here in Summerville? I spoke with a rep for TWC on Saturday and ordered the Showtime package, she wasnt aware that TNT-HD was listed in the program guide. Any info would be appreciated. Thanks

Mike

Good Evening,

TNT HD is available upon upgrade of your neighborhood, so customers who have already received the upgrade have the channel and that's why its on the IPG. I'm sorry, I can't remember if we have already checked on the upgrade in your area.... the memory goes more every day....

Take Care

Tried to send you a PM but your mailbox was full :(

When it clears i will send you my address , maybe you can check to see if im in the upgraded area

Thanks

Sorry about the full mailbox, I just cleaned everything out (which always makes me very nervous that I will get rid of something important, oh well, too late now)

Please send the address and I will check for you. I am leaving at noon today for the final Cable Conference of the summer, so once again I will be away from the internet for a couple of days - back in Wednesday morning.

Take Care.

Mike I am in Node 5 on the upgrade map and I get TNT-HD now. I am still waiting for HDnet and InHD1 and 2 tho. :) I called to ask about them and they said when my neighborhood is upgraded I will get them. Dunnoh but the map shows that my neighborhood is upgraded.

Telcomguy:

I have no idea what node im in. Does HDnet and InHD 1 & 2 show up on your program guide? If so, what channels are they? Im in the Greenhurst subdivision.

TWC Summerville

HDnet is channel 930
HDnet Movies is channel 931
INHD1 is channel 940
INHD2 is channel 941

In order to receive these channels I had to subscribe to the HD tier. I live in Legend Oaks and we were upgraded at the beginning of June.

Phil

Telecom Guy - pm me your address please (I know I had it but as I said above I cleaned out my pm's and probably got rid of something important... ie your address). Your node is upgraded and there is no reason you shouldn't have access to the HD Tier.

First thing for me to check is to make sure the service code is on your account. As pcm19 said, the HD Tier does have a monthly subscription rate of $6.95 per month, so you have to ask for it separately. We do offer the first 30 days of the tier free.

Sorry for the confusion - CSSRs tend to overcompensate then they have an umbrella answer like "Upgrade" available.

Have a great week,

Sure wish we had someone here from Comcast like Diana...
On that note, Diana, I guess there is no chance that TimeWarner would be servicing Charleston anytime soon, huh?

Thanks for the compliment.

I have no information about any deals between TWC and Comcast. Those are all handled on the Corporate Level. Sorry I can't be of further assistance.

Talked with an engineer from WCBD today, says they will possibly be up and running from Awendaw by the first part of next month. He said they needed to make a change in their application for weight requirements, I'm under the impression they will be transmitting both the digital and analog signals from there.

Both WTAT and WMMP filed applications for changes in their construction permits, WTAT on 6-17 and WMMP on 7-14. Both were granted. Hopefully they can get on the ball soon.

Loadams: WCBD, WTAT and WMMP will all be broadcasting both digital and analog from there. And they certainly have accelerated their schedule :).
Not to be a doubting Thomas, but I don't think there's any way they'll be broadcasting HD from Awendaw next month.

(By the way, this is a new strategy for me, and I hope that I'm proven wrong)

Dolemite77: I agree that Diana is a great addition to the board. However, what info would you like to get from Comcast? I might be able to help.

Ktrout, with WCBD being my least reliable sig, I guess I just got too excited with the Olympics around the corner.

What led to the phone call was I removed my 10db preamp and slightly tilted my SS a little giving me a 80% solid sig from them even though I'm pointed in the opposite direction. They never pegged more than 48-50% before and plenty of dropouts.

I am not optimistic about anything from WTAT and WMMP until next year either. From what I've read, SBC is financially strapped. FOX is trying to get things moving, 33% of their DTV affiliates are at full power and supposedly a full network roll out by Jan 05. Key word, supposedly. Fox is waving their flags now with all of the sports this year and next. Wish they could get things rolling a little faster here in time for the Superbowl !

What is the compass heading for their tower in Awenda and the projected broadcasting power for the stations?

r.jones: WCBD's tower is pretty much right next to WCSC's. Here's a map.

http://www.markuyak.com/schdtv/antennas.htm

WCBD-DT - 1000kW (Same as WCSC-DT)
WTAT-DT - 400kW (Same as WCIV-DT)
WMMP-DT - 46kW (Same as some electric heat strips in larger air handling units)

New member joining in. Live in Coosaw Creek and been watching the conversations for a while. Recently made the purchase to buy at OTA tuner Samsung SIR-T150. When it comes will try first a silver sensor. Have a 46 wide screen rear projector HD-ready.

It looks as though NBC is going to have a great deal of coverage of the Olympics on HD. Any ideas on what we should be able to pick up?

Thanks, Todd

Anyone getting 2 small lines on a digital picture from ABC from OTA signal? I've looked at ABC with HD and they don't show, it's only in 4:3 digital that I see it. No other channel has it.

lancer1991: Just saw your thread and turned on WCIV-DT. Didn't notice any small lines on the picture. Show was that Drew Carey show w/ the comedians.

toddemiles: Welcome to the forum. WCBD-DT will be broadcasting all of the HD feeds from national NBC for sure. I don't think they have any plans or possibly the capability of passing through the HD feeds from any of the other broadcast partners.

To all: Please pass on comments regarding WCBD's broadcast on the Olympics. They are interested to hear how we feel about the broadcast.
Thanks.

Well let me correct myself. I had not geared up yet for watching the Olympics yet.... power out today, stuff with my daughter etc..... but then decided to throw something together after she went to bed.

Turned on WCBD and noticed 4:3. Called Master Control. They indicated there wasn't any HD from NBC tonight. Checked the schedule and actually they are supposed to be re-broadcasting the opening ceremony tonight and the stuff we're seeing tonight tomorrow night. Ugh.

Obviously, I haven't spent the time and am not up on this stuff. Oh well, we'll see what happens.

Waiting patiently for TWC to offer more local channels in HD

Doesn't look like NBC is sending the HD feed. I didn't care last night because I'd rather watch sports, but this morning I wanted to check out the swimming, but they are still simulcasting!

Of course Directv shows that 2.1 is supposed to be HD Olympics pretty much 24 hours a day. But so far I've only seen the opening ceremonies in HD. And of course, since we have a HD NBC available, I can't get the D* HD feed. Maybe I can get a waiver from NBC before the Olympics is over since they are only simulcasting. No wonder I don't watch NBC.

How do I contact NBC to get a waiver? Anyone know?

i could be wrong but i dont think waivers are issued for HD signals..if you can get an OTA analog signal. Waivers are for those people that live in the boonies...too far for any signal

Question: Would you rather have WCBD simulcast digital signal or show HD feed from previous nights action?

Well they started HD broadcasts now.
KTrout: I'd like the other option of live HD; but since that wasn't one of your options I'll go with HD from previous night since most of the events are taped anyway and D* signals don't look that much worse than NBC's SD signal. Plus D* doesn't have "snow" that NBC has occasionally.

NBC really had a chance to shine but as usual, they drop the ball when it comes to HD and sports.

Hd from previous night here also. Swimming looked decent in SD, but HD was a treat. The promo looked really good with all of the shots of Athens and surroundings, what a beautiful place.

Any comments about the PGA Championship ?

PGA Championship looked great. What a beautiful course. CBS is doing a great job with the HD coverage. Now only if it could be every match and every station.

As for the coverage of players, that's another story. Never truly understand it. Mickleson and Els are the same shots back, but they show Els and nothing of Mickleson.

Well, they've got the HD up on NBC, but having watched a bit, I'd definitely rather have them show the regular NBC broadcast when they are showing the Olympics there. Its fine to run the HD loop at other times during the day, but for me, I'd take it just for the improvement in PQ that the digital channel has. Also, on the HD, you just don't see as many Americans competing.

Also, I am with loadams, that loop with the shots of Athens is awesome, really makes you want to go there. Makes it even more surprising that most of these events have loads of empty seats.

I have to agree about the Olypmics coverage in HD. While the footage was stunning it is dated as it seems to be about 12 hours behind the regular coverage. The opening ceremonies were stunning. You could pick up the wires and when showing the parade of countries teams you could see each person standing in the center.

The PGA was a mixed bag however. While the shots from a distance were spectacular (could see grains of sand) the upclose did not look HD. Do they use Low-res and high-res cameras?

Yeah, definitely thought it was a mixed bag as well. I think they are mixed SD and HD camera shots, still, the 50% of HD shots were well worth watching. SD shots look "heat waved". The 18th was spectacular ! So right about Els and Mickelson, maybe they just wanted to show him collapse again or something, he really wanted that one.

How about the multicasting now?
2- showing live Olympic coverage
2.1- taped HD coverage
5 - Panthers football
5.1 - Without a Trace( or something like that)

Wouldn't it be great if the HD channels always showed HD programs, even if taped? Reruns of West Wing, ER, CSI, etc. Heck, I'd watch em !

All this talk of local HD programming is making me jealous.

Anything new on TWC providing WCBDDT or WCIVDT ?

I agree with you Shuttermaker. I've been perusing ebay lokking for an OTA receiver. I don't want to go another year without Monday Night Football in HD.

Dianna said TWC was in negotiations with the local stations but she didn't have any idea of a timeline. I too have been perusing eBay for a receiver.

Unfortunately the've been negotiating for a long time. I hope we're not bidding against each other on the OTA receiver!

On the golf coverage apparently the high def cameras are cumbersome so they only set them up in stationary areas and use standard def cameras to roam the course.

In regards to my issue with ABC and the 2 lines on digital pictures, I'm getting them now on Extreme Home Makeover if anyone can look for me and I've linked a picture here (http://mywebpages.comcast.net/cmhomer/abclines.jpg) .

walmart sells OTA HD receivers for $200, at least the walmart in Mt Pleasant

Shuttermaker - you should have all your HD Channels now. Please let me know if this is not the case.

Thanks,

Yesterday, 2 field techs from TWC came to my house to see why i wasnt receiving TNT HD. After testing the signal at my house, they said they should have it fixed early the next day. True to their word, it was done.

Any promising news on additional local HDTV channels, ESPN HD, or The NFL Network?

Once again, fantastic service from TWC. I have all of my HD channels. TNT-HD looks and sounds fantastic.

Thanks Diana,
Mike

Originally posted by shuttermaker
TNT-HD looks and sounds fantastic.



It does not look and sound fantastic to me. Most of their stuff is up-converted, not OAR, and the sound is boomy.

Sorry, I have no additional news on any other HD adds at this time.

Wow Gary, NICE SETUP.

With a setup like that, i bet analog looks great ..lol ;)

Originally posted by Gary J
It does not look and sound fantastic to me. Most of their stuff is up-converted, not OAR, and the sound is boomy.

I have been using Dishnetwork for over a year with Timwarner broadcast only. Last month I though I would give TWC a shot again and got the SA3250HD. I have to say I am still pretty disappointed with TWC and will probably turn my receivers in and go with broadcast only again until I get my Superdish install then get the local channels through Dishnetwork.

The channels I watch are still grainy (SCIFI, FOOD, local channels). The receiver should loose audio more than half the time I switched channels (I am using digital audio out). I think I will be staying with Dish until TWC goes all digital or cleans up their analog channels.

Oh yeah, the last reason was I called and was supposedly going to get the SA3250HD with firewire output. They lady said she had one and scanned it into my account so it would be ready when the installer came out. When the installer showed up I failed to notice that I had the SA3100HD unit instead. I had to drive to the store and replace it with the 3250. The unit did not have firewire and have not been able to get anyone who knows anything about it.

- James

Dump Dishnetwork and give Voom a try. You and your HDTV will be glad you did.:D

Originally posted by jamesarm
I have been using Dishnetwork for over a year with Timwarner broadcast only. Last month I though I would give TWC a shot again and got the SA3250HD. I have to say I am still pretty disappointed with TWC and will probably turn my receivers in and go with broadcast only again until I get my Superdish install then get the local channels through Dishnetwork.

The channels I watch are still grainy (SCIFI, FOOD, local channels). The receiver should loose audio more than half the time I switched channels (I am using digital audio out). I think I will be staying with Dish until TWC goes all digital or cleans up their analog channels.

Oh yeah, the last reason was I called and was supposedly going to get the SA3250HD with firewire output. They lady said she had one and scanned it into my account so it would be ready when the installer came out. When the installer showed up I failed to notice that I had the SA3100HD unit instead. I had to drive to the store and replace it with the 3250. The unit did not have firewire and have not been able to get anyone who knows anything about it.


- James


We have a very, very limited number of Firewire Converters available for the entire state of SC. The process in place is supposed to be:

You call Customer Service and ask for a Firewire Converter. They will take your name and number and have a member of my team call you back to qualify the placement and set up the installation. The installation window for this is up to 2 weeks because of the very, very limited number we have (they are all housed in Columbia and it takes several days to transition a Converter in the DNCS from Columbia to Summerville). As it is, if you PM me your phone number, I will (1) get a call back to you for qualification and installation and (2) make sure the CSSR you spoke with gets additional training on the subject.

As for your reception, it really isn't supposed to look like you describe, so I believe there is a problem with the plant in either you home or neighborhood. I am confident the problem can be resolved with a service call.

Hey guys, Any of you upgrade yet to an HDTivo? Got mine last week....been playing around with it. Having real troubles with OTA WCSC. Seems to be that the signal is too strong according to some reports and that I need to get an attenuator for the signal. Anyone else having these problems?

-DTF

Originally posted by DavidTigerFan
Hey guys, Any of you upgrade yet to an HDTivo? Got mine last week....been playing around with it. Having real troubles with OTA WCSC. Seems to be that the signal is too strong according to some reports and that I need to get an attenuator for the signal. Anyone else having these problems?

-DTF

Is it actually a TiVo DVR? I've been looking for one and haven't been able to find one.

Originally posted by DavidTigerFan
Hey guys, Any of you upgrade yet to an HDTivo? Got mine last week....been playing around with it. Having real troubles with OTA WCSC. Seems to be that the signal is too strong according to some reports and that I need to get an attenuator for the signal. Anyone else having these problems?


I have had one for a little while now without any problems with WCSC. Of course, my NBC reception has been spotty, which is sad because of all the Olympics I have Tivo'd. No trouble with too much signal though. I just have a Silver Sensor in the attic and get a 95 or so Signal on WCSC.

BTW - so far the HD Tivo has been great. I had been waiting for this for a long time.

patyoung:
I've heard that the HD Tivo doesn't have an analog OTA tuner, is that true?
If so, it would seem like a pretty big over-site to me. No Fox or UPN recording for us.

Originally posted by patyoung
I have had one for a little while now without any problems with WCSC. Of course, my NBC reception has been spotty, which is sad because of all the Olympics I have Tivo'd. No trouble with too much signal though. I just have a Silver Sensor in the attic and get a 95 or so Signal on WCSC.

BTW - so far the HD Tivo has been great. I had been waiting for this for a long time.

Where did you get yours? I can't find one anywhere.

Does anyone have any news on when Comcast will offer a DVR and/or an HD-DVR? I think I remember a few months ago someone said they were about to begin beta testing, but since then, I haven't heard anything.

TWC has had an HD-DVR for some time now, and it appears DirecTV is now offering one too. Hopefully Comcast will follow suit in the not too distant future...

Thanks,
McLeod

I HAVE HAD THEIR SCIENTIFIC ATLANTA BOX FOR ABOUT 4 WEEKS, AND WOULD RATHER SEE THE WIFE LEAVE THAN THIS BOX (KIDDING OF COURSE). YOU CAN RECORD ONE HD, WHILE WATCHING ANOTHER, OR RECORD 2 HD PROGAMS AT THE SAME TIME. NO SCREW UPS AT ALL, AND THE 4:3 FILL TO 16:9 SCREEN WORKS GREAT. THIS IS MANNA FROM HEAVEN !!!!
RICK CATHCART
843-814-8789

Hi GRC -
Wow, are you using a beta box, or are they readily available? Do you have to pay more per month for it? Any info would be great.

Thanks!

I AM IN BETA MODE. HAVE YOU CALLED COMCAST ??
RICK

I called Comcast and was told that they are not adding any more people to the beta testing, but that the boxes are scheduled to be available to the public around the first of September. They have a list of people to call when they are available, and I got on that list.

YOU WILL WET YOUR PANTS !!!!!
RICK

To let you all know, the HDTivo does not have analog OTA tuners. I couldn't pull in UPN anyway so that doesn't matter to me. I get FOX off D* so it doesn't matter to me...=o)

I got mine through value electronics on the web. You can sometimes catch them in stock on the Best buy or Circuit city website. I'd be interested in seeing this comcast HD dvr....still in beta and only just now getting dual tuner capability. I guess you can call me a Tivo snob....;)

-DTF

Anybody else having problems with INHD1 and INHD2 in Summerville? Mine have disappeared (black screen) sometime within the past couple of days. Customer service has "re-booted" my box with no luck. Can anyone check and see if you're receiving these two channels - 940 and 941?

On the HD Tivo as David said there is no analog tuner which did seem surprising to me. Hopefully the Fox and UPN will be available digitally pretty soon. It hasn't really been an issue for me so far because I don't watch too much from those stations (though if they did Enterprise in HD, I would watch that!). Of course, I would have liked it to Tivo the regular NBC coverage instead of having to go old school with that.

Still, its a big step forward for D* subscribers since before this you couldn't Tivo ANY local channels at all (not until they carry the CHS locals later this year - but why pay for them when you can get them in a much higher quality OTA digital anyway).

You do have to pay the extra $5/mo for D* Tivo the same as any other Tivo, but that seems well worth it to me.

Im not getting 940 or 941 either...but i just noticed channel 811 CBS - W WLTX, which is the cola affiliate showing WCSC Doppler radar.

Is this new or have i just been in the dark?

LngdnAlger: The boxes will cost an additional $5 / month if you already have digital and HD.

I haven't had INHD 1 or 2 for several days. I also went through the rebooting the box process.

I also have had a problem with my SA3250 box loosing the widescreen format overnight. I am going to have to run it down to the office and swap it out today.

I just spoke with my headend manager. He's sending someone in to look at the IN HD 1 & 2 issue.

You guys need to email me when you see these things so I can get someone on them sooner - Please - twcscnews@twcable.com

I just got DishNetwork HD installed today. I am looking to add an OTA Antenna to add to the setup for Local HD. Any suggestions? I am about 30 miles from transmitters, so signals should be decent...I hope.

Any and all suggestions welcome...

I live in G.C. and have a Radio Shack UHF antenna ($20.00) on a 15 ft. pole mounted on roof. Works great for me.

The rat shack UHF should work good for you, U75 PN 15-2160.
Stay away from TERK, and clip on dish type.
Jim

I actually tried the Terk before I got DN. What a waste of money. Are there any indoor antennae that work in GC?

Thanks for suggestions, BTW...

atp 1313 do it right the first time, go for the outside and get all the local ch.

Just wondering if it was my connection/reception that prevented me from getting MNF on HD.

Excited about the prospect of MNF but this was not good getting nothing.

Thanks

MNF was in HD. Must have been something on your end.

How do you receive 4-1?

Tonight, I noticed in the Comcast guide a new channel DISCHD at 186. When I tried to go to it it said I wasn't authorized. This looks like Discovery HD Theater. This is the first I heard of it. Now I didn't actually see anything, so I suppose it might be Comcast getting ready for something, but it is nice to see some progress with new HD channels.

Anyone noticing a lot of pixalation lately on INHD1/2. I have seen it over the last few days, but I didn't notice it on HBO or the networks. Maybe Comcast is playing with compression with those stations?

Andy

It would be nice to get Discovery HD ! I've noticed the pixelation on INHD 1 & 2 as well .


Is anyone else haviung trouble with ESPN HD or PBS HD on Comcast ? I can't get either channel to come in ever since the storm Saturday .

186 will be Discovery HD.

It will be here before you know it.

I haven't checked out ESPNHD, PBSHD, INHD for any duration lately, but I will try to watch a little tonight to see if it's a common problem or something localized.

I too see a lot of pixelation on the INHD channels. On rare occasions PBS gets scrambled but the rest of the HD channels have no problems. Sometimes INHD cuts out so much that its unwatchable. I mentioned this before on here a couple of months ago... right around the time BravesHD showed up.

-brian

Count me in as a COMCAST subscriber with INHD drop-outs and sometimes severe pixalation. Since I have their HDPVR, for what ever it's worth, these drop-outs, if severe, will disconnect the recorder.
rick

I checked it out last night and didn't notice any differences in my reception. I too have had some issues w/ INHD but I know that my signal is weak. Seems like you guys might be experiencing some signal strength issues. Did you lose service at all during the storm? Was it a sudden development or something you've noticed over time?

I put an amplifier in line and it seemed to help.

An amplifier for cable ???? That's news to me. Comcast should be responsible for a strong signal, and yes, I was having INHD pixelation before GASTON, and ONLY on INHD. I am reporting this to COMCAST Monday,
rick

I finally called Comcast about not being able to get ESPN HD or PBS . On the phone doing all their magic they could not figure out why I'm not receiving either channel . So they are sending out a tech next Friday to check it out . I think it might be the box , it was working fine before Gaston hit . Ever since neither channel has worked but I can get all the others .

Originally posted by KTrout
186 will be Discovery HD.

It will be here before you know it.

I haven't checked out ESPNHD, PBSHD, INHD for any duration lately, but I will try to watch a little tonight to see if it's a common problem or something localized.

Great news, any word on NBC, Mark?

Andy

Unfortunately, no news on NBC. Seems the corporate people are still serving our best interests by not doing anything at all.

On saturday went through extreme pain and suffering to get an antenna and put it in the attic, (no roof mounted allowed for me) and got worse results.

Just to check I took my small Radio Shack antenna to the attic and it too gets worse response. The signal seems a little stronger but very flaky - comes and goes. Tried several locations and directions with little/no improvement.

Any thoughts?

Why no roof mount????

Todd,

When you say "no roof mounted allowed for me" are you indicating that the by-laws of Coosaw Creek indicate you are not allowed to have an outdoor antenna? If so please check out this website........
http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html

If you don't want to challenge authority or would rather not try to use an outdoor antenna, have you tried a signal amplifier? If you have a compass, you might also make sure you are aiming in the right direction. Here's a link to a page indicating where the signals are originating........

http://www.markuyak.com/schdtv/antennas.htm

Let us know, there's people here that will help solve this problem for you.

I'll try a signal amplifier. Does the fact that I have a 100' RG6 cable contribute? I can shorten it, just lazy right now.

What ant. do you have

Don't have the specific models now. (Am away from home) the smal TV top is a radio shack (amplified) and the attic antenna is an RCA brand

The longer the cable the more signal loss. However, it's probably not that significant. If Ol Jim is on the case, it'll get resolved.

Anyone have any info when channel 2 will be broadcasting from the tower in Awenda?

I did try to search thru this post to determine if we have any info on when Comcast will offer an HD DVR solution - but I didn't have any luck. I'm interested in the Mt. Pleasant area specifically (we're relocating w/in a few months).

It seems that Comcast has been offering a DVR in most of their other service areas around the country. Even Adelphia is rolling out the SA8000HD DVR where we currently live (northern virginia). Having a DVR is pretty much a requirement for us. We have Directv/Tivo now (SD only), and will start using the Adelphia SA this week for HD.

I figured you all would probably know better than a Comcast CSR????

COMCAST here will be offering the same SA8000HD DVR any day now, certainly by the time you move in a few months.

Hope you have a good move.

I got tired of waiting for NBC and ABC to be added to TWC here in Summerville so I finally got an OTA receiver. Didn't want to miss any more Monday Night Football in HD. Went to Sears and picked up the floor display Sylvania for less than $100. I'm getting signal strength of 85 to 95 on ABC, NBC, CBS, and PBS with an RS UHF outdoor ant (15-2160) in the attic. I can't get Fox or UPN at all but I didn't really expect to. I'm up on Hwy 61 at Legend Oaks. I'm very pleased with the picture quality of the OTA reception.

Phil

thanks, ktrout, for the quick response. the fact that it was good news helps as well!

I'll be interested to see what I think of the SA8000 vs. Tivo...

tenflyer,

i think you'll like the SA DVRs. i have an 8000 and an 8000HD through TWC in summerville, sc and i've been pleased with the performance of both units. i've never had tivo for comparison but IMHO i think they work well. being able to time shift HD is fantastic.

Phil

Is there anyway to subscribe to comcast without following their "packages" pricing scheme? Right now, I have the Digital Gold (i think), but I don't watch half the channels... Is there a way I could just have the basic cable lineup, with the HD tier and say, two premium channels for less $$?? I shouldn't have to pay for all these channels that i don't watch... Thanks!

Digital Platinum 4 Premiums $91.80

Digital Gold 2 Premiums $79.80

Digital Silver 2 Premiums $70.35

I just heard that ESPN is launching 2 new channels. A full time simulcast of ESPN2 in 24/7 HD and ESPN U....devoted to all college sports.

Would be nice to see TWC get a jump on that ALL HD ESPN channel when it launches!!

Originally posted by shuttermaker
I just heard that ESPN is launching 2 new channels. A full time simulcast of ESPN2 in 24/7 HD and ESPN U....devoted to all college sports.

Would be nice to see TWC get a jump on that ALL HD ESPN channel when it launches!!


That will be cool, since they carry a lot of Big Ten Football on ESPN2, but according to the story it won't launch until January.

http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/tvlistings/espnhd/espnHDStory?id=1876748

But more HD is always better.

I haven't heard about ESPNU is that also supposed to be HD.

I guess Comcast and TWC are going to have to start clearing some space, to carry new HD channels, at least we can hope....

dolemite77: I am no help at all when it comes to pricing schemes. You will have to call COMCAST to discuss rate plans.

I saw that same announcement on the bottom line yesterday regarding ESPN2-HD. As much as I would like to see it in January, I'm not expecting it. ESPN ruffled some feathers with their restructured carriage rates so unless they are almost giving it away, I wouldn't expect to see a lot of companies going out of their way to add ESPN2-HD.

I hope I'm wrong, the more HD the better. I'm just not expecting it right away.

Speaking of COMCAST..... Keep your eyes open, they will be making some announcements soon that I think everyone will be happy about.

And please don't bother asking me to elaborate.

Be nice to get some good news from TWC....all this COMCAST talk is making me jealous.

My Christmas wish list

1. ESPN-HD
2. NFL Network
3. WCBD-DT
4. WCIV-DT
5. ESPN2-HD
6. More of a service area crossover of cable providers to create some competition for subscribers

Originally posted by KTrout
I saw that same announcement on the bottom line yesterday regarding ESPN2-HD. As much as I would like to see it in January, I'm not expecting it. ESPN ruffled some feathers with their restructured carriage rates so unless they are almost giving it away

It looks like they are "almost giving it away".....
According to sources in the Programming section of this forum, folks who seem to be in the know, are quoting that ESPN2-HD and ESPN U are already in the pricing scheme that has been negotiated. In other words, if you are getting ESPN-HD then your provider has already paid for ESPN2-HD. Good news for Comcast and DirectTV subs, it sounds like bad for TWC.

they better tighten up...ill get my DirecTV equipment back out

KTrout - can you elaborate on the .............j/k.

Question:
How are you so in the know though with Comcast......bro?

AndrewG: Thanks for finding that out. I didn't think to look through the programming section for info before my diatribe......

Dolemite: It's not so much about being in the know.... A long time ago I started communicating with people at COMCAST about High Definition here in Charleston and have maintained a good relationship with them. I think they have come to understand that I'm just interested in bringing HD to the masses, it doesn't matter how.

I've been working on Nielsen lately. And I would encourage all of you to drop them a line questioning why they don't count HD broadcasts in their ratings?

"Comcast is pleased to announce the launch of Discovery HD. The official launch date will be October 1, 2004 however, we will have a special sneak preview beginning Friday September 10, 2004. All Digital HD customers in Charleston will have access to this new channel tomorrow on Digital Channel 186 at no additional charge."


More to come.

Additionally, for those that didn't know, Georgia vs. South Carolina will be on ESPN-HD this weekend. And College Gameday will be there as well

Awesome! I guess we knew it was coming eventually, but tomorrow is good... So we get a sneak peek starting tomorrow but does it end on october 1st? After the official launch date, will they want us to pay more to recieve Discovery HD?

THanks KT...

Anyone notice the Pioneer Plasma commercial during the NFL game tonight? The commercial was in HD. Pretty sweet, never seen commercials in HD yet, maybe this will be a start... Oh well, back to watching the Apprentice...

There was a Sony HD commercial during the Olympics repeated quite a number of times.

Lol, With everyone's talk of comcast (whom I don't like very much) I'd like everyone to know that Dtv just rolled out BravoHD and also is rolling out several NFL HD games per week that are included with the NFLST. Looks like the national HD NBC feed should be up by the end of sept also.

Yeah I knew about the more than 100 HD-NFL games on ST this year. I dropped my DTV and didn't get ST this year because I didn't think I'd have as much time with my new family addition. Turns out my 4 month old daughter loves football (OK I might be making some creative leaps with my interpretations of her actions). So I'm missing out on that.
And I would have liked to have BravoHD to catch some of the US Open recently as well.

Speaking of NBC.... nothing new in regards to carriage with COMCAST. Someone asked a while ago I think about when they'll be up full power from Awendaw. Unfortunately, I'm starting to think it will be next summer instead of this winter.

AndrewG et all: There is no additional cost for DISCOVERY HD if you already have the digital package.

Is anyone getting COMCAST DISCOVERY HD Yet ???????
if so, how did you do it ???????
rick

no, i think they just now got the program guide in there for discovery hd, but still no picture... hopefully by this evening?

Originally posted by KTrout
"Comcast is pleased to announce the launch of Discovery HD. The official launch date will be October 1, 2004 however, we will have a special sneak preview beginning Friday September 10, 2004. All Digital HD customers in Charleston will have access to this new channel tomorrow on Digital Channel 186 at no additional charge."


More to come.

Additionally, for those that didn't know, Georgia vs. South Carolina will be on ESPN-HD this weekend. And College Gameday will be there as well


Cool, my impression from Comcast is that they didn't want to have tiered pricing, so are we to assume that DiscoveryHD will be included in the HD prices.

And since you say more to come, and we had discussed DiscHD a few pages ago, there must be some new announcements coming. So time for some wild speculation:

No NBC based on your recent reports, but I will guess (hope) that Comcast has reached an agreement with FOX here in Charleston to begin broadcasting their HD signal for football. Although, WTAT hasn't indicated they will be ready and they are a Sinclair station, who has a rep. for resisting HD, but that would be great news. Because, the Superbowl (featuring my beloved Patriots and some NFC team TBA) will be on FOX this year. And after last year's outstanding HD Superbowl, on CBS, I don't think I could go back to grainy, blurry analog FOX.

My other wish list would be : NFL Network and HDNet.

Just for fun,

Andy

I just received this e-mail from WCBD.


Roger,
We are currently broadcasting in HDTV from our studio here in Mt.Pleasant at 10kw. This signal has a range of some 30 miles. A tower crew started work yesterday on prepartions to begin modifing our Awendaw tower to accomodate a new digital antenna. This work should be completed by November 1. Our full power HD transmitter is not scheduled to be in operation until first or second quarter of 2006 but that date may be pushed forward. I hope this information helps.

Tim Coghill
Operations/WCBD-TV

Originally posted by r.jones
I just received this e-mail from WCBD.

Our full power HD transmitter is not scheduled to be in operation until first or second quarter of 2006 but that date may be pushed forward. I hope this information helps.

Tim Coghill
Operations/WCBD-TV


2006? That is painful, but I guess the additional height of the Awendaw tower should increase the range into something like WCIV's, so most people should be able to get it.

Are we to believe that FOX will move to WCBD's antenna as well at that point and just maintain low power. If so many people would be able to get it, right? Height makes a big difference, and also having all the antennas in the same direction would help as well (Ktrout, any ideas)

First of all I believe 2006 is a typo. Their full power transmitter is being delivered May of next year, thus my earlier speculation about next summer or 2nd Q 2005. WCBD won't move the other transmitter as it will remain at their facility in Mt. Pleasant as a back-up. (Learned that on the tour). The full power transmitter is the same power as WCSC's.

As far as FOX goes, I wouldn't count on them changing their current broadcasting status until WCBD's full power transmitter is in place. It's possible that they would put their transmitter out there and tie into the antenna and stat-mux etc. that WCBD is providing, but, again I hope I'm wrong, I just don't see Sinclair pushing that.......... there's a lot involved with starting up this new system that I don't see happening until WCBD is ready to broadcast.

ESPN HD is now available on the TWC HD Tier Channel 950

– the deal was just signed – authorization is in progress – so it will come on the air sometime this evening (sorry I can’t be more precise than that)

No information will show up on the Guide until Tuesday, September 14th.

Customer’s who currently subscribe to the HD Tier will automatically receive this channel. Customer’s who wish to ad the HD Tier should call 866-TWC-SC01, the addition of this service can be done over the phone.


The channel is currently only available in upgraded areas of the Summerville system. It will be added to other areas upon completion of the upgrade.

I just turned it on, fantastic! Hello college football and Sunday night football in HD! I'll leave you alone about NBC and ABC, I bought an OTA receiver.


Phil

Looks like TWC took negotiations down to the wire with the upcoming NFL and College Football Season. Glad to see TWC adding ESPN though, it would have been a shame to miss out on it this season.

email came down at 4:25 this afternoon, we didn't have a clue.

My engineers are good though - aren't they!

Great news on ESPN-HD. Now, is there any chance of getting just as quick action on getting ABC signed up in time to watch the Panthers game in HD this Monday? That would be really nice.

I'm doubting it, but if the opportunity arises, we will be all over it.

Excellent news Diana

Was there any mention of the recently announced launch of ESPN2-HD in January?

Now i can scratch off one of my Christmas list items :)

Originally posted by DianaTWCSC
I'm doubting it, but if the opportunity arises, we will be all over it.

After speaking with Suzanne Teagle, the general manager for WCIV, I think the opportunity is definately there. They are just as anxious as we are to get the digital channel on the lineup. In fact, last I heard she was waiting to hear back from the TWC lawyers about the agreement. So we just need to give your lawyers a swift kick in the butt and let them know how important it is to get this deal done so we can watch Monday night football and the ABC fall sitcoms in HD. However, I am grateful that we now have espn-hd. I just hope ABC is soon to follow. I know it is probably wishful thinking, but I hope to be watching the Panthers in HD this Monday. Thanks for the hard work.

Originally posted by AndrewG
It looks like they are "almost giving it away".....
According to sources in the Programming section of this forum, folks who seem to be in the know, are quoting that ESPN2-HD and ESPN U are already in the pricing scheme that has been negotiated. In other words, if you are getting ESPN-HD then your provider has already paid for ESPN2-HD. Good news for Comcast and DirectTV subs, it sounds like bad for TWC.


Diana...is there any truth to this?

Might be lookin at the trifecta here

crossing my fingers

Good Morning,

Personally, I rarely believe any statement that includes "folks who seem to be in the know". Because Folks in the know don't share info of this sort.

The email we received did not include any specifics on deal points (not that I could share them with you if it did) and it did not mention any other ABC/Disney/ESPN product, specifically there was nothing in relation to ESPN2HD in the contents.

Originally posted by DianaTWCSC
Good Morning,
Personally, I rarely believe any statement that includes "folks who seem to be in the know". Because Folks in the know don't share info of this sort.

The email we received did not include any specifics on deal points (not that I could share them with you if it did) and it did not mention any other ABC/Disney/ESPN product, specifically there was nothing in relation to ESPN2HD in the contents.

Diana,
I don't pretend to have any particular personal insight and I am certainly not one of the "folks in the know" but the sources in the Programming forum were quotes, with links to ESPN spokespeople. There are some reliable sources of information in the programming forum here, and I don't think they are sharing anything that secretive, they were relaying info from ESPN. And I was responding to Ktrout's reasonable guess that there would have been a long negotiation for this station as there was for ESPN-HD.

Bryan Burns, ESPN's HD chief, said ESPN has contracts with all major cable operators except Time Warner Cable, and with direct-broadcast satellite providers DirecTV Inc. and EchoStar Communications Corp.

ESPN2 is currently available to some 50 million homes and, as of last spring, ESPN HD was in more than 1 million homes, according to Burns.

"We're now going to go out with ESPN2 HD and see where we get," he said, noting that the fee is part of the company's overall programming bundle.


Of course getting ESPN2-HD on the air will be dependent on the Cable Co.s having space, when it is available.

Thanks for your efforts keeping us informed about HD cable in Summerville, even for those of us who are not directly affected.

Andy

AndrewG

I'm sorry if I offended you, I was responding to Shuttermaker's two posts - the second of which asked for my opinion. Going back through the posts I can't figure out your reference to you responding to a Ktrout post....but my response had nothing to do with whatever you are referencing.

Here is the source of my perspective - I get literally dozens of requests to confirm "cable urban legends" each week - they come by PM, Forum Post, Email, Phone Calls and Snail Mail and 99.999999% are absolutely untrue, but 95.9999999% typically are quoted as from someone in the know. I have just found that "typically" people in the know don't share that freely. That doesn't mean in this instance there weren't some absolutely reliable sources putting the information out there.

Again, I'm sorry if my opinion offended you.

Diana,
No offense taken, I was just making sure that you and Shuttermaker didn't think I was the source of the info, and that I was just passing on information from an ESPN quote. I agree with you that there are tons of rumors, and wishful thinking out there in the forums, and they are mostly incorrect. But there are some people in the programming forum who have proven themselves to be correct with information, and are usually do not spread rumors.

Again, I really wasn't offended, but I wanted to clarify my point and the source of information. Of course we have all seen that we should believe it only when it shows up on the screen.

I appreciate your courteous response,

Andy

Well I still don't have PBS HD or ESPN HD on Comcast . I waited a whole week for a tech to come out and all he did was switch my box out :rolleyes: . After that didn't work he says he will have to call the office and get a maintenance person out to my home . I have to wait another week for this !

Any links anywhere or can someone give me a channel offering and price for Comcast HD? I already have the digital package.

Hey, just got back in town. Looks like Discovery is up. HEY I don't want to be left out, anyone want to be offended :)

lancer1991: The current HD channel line-up follows:

172 - BRAVES HD - Occasional Braves Games
173 - ESPNHD
174 - INHD
175 - INHD2
176 - HBO-HD
177 - CINEMAX-HD
178 - SHO-HD
180 - WCIV-HD
182 - WCSC-HD
186 - DISCOVERY-HD
190 - PBS-HD

I really don't remember how much any of it is because my wife pays the bills...... but be sure to ask about the SA8000HD DVR when you call, it's only an additional $5/mo. and well worth it.

The movie channels don't cost extra if you subscribe to that particular movie package, but they don't come with the HD package.

Originally posted by KTrout
Hey, just got back in town. Looks like Discovery is up. HEY I don't want to be left out, anyone want to be offended :)


Now I am offended:D Just Kidding.

But seriously, INHD and INHD2 have looked terrible lately. There are pixalation effects all the time, I noticed on during the Stanford/BYU game Saturday and on some concerts. It appears on both stations, and happens every 30-60 seconds or so. They usually appear as a horizonal line of different colored pixels. I don't see any other effects like that on any other HD channel. Is anyone/everyone else noticing it. I will report it to Comcast tomorrow.

Regarding DiscoveryHD it really looks great. One of the best. I had missed it since I got rid of DirectTV in May.

And I can second the recommendation for the 8000HD DVR, it works great, well worth $5.

Andy

I too have pixelation problems on INHD/INHD2... Watched INHD to the Max tonight. The Beavers show was pretty cool, but pixel artifacts were everywhere.
I would like that 8000HD DVR box, but supposedly you have to be a subscriber for at least 6 months before you get one. That, or it's a $100 deposit... That's what the guy told me at the Comcast store in Mt. P anyway... (I've only been a subscriber since about June)

Originally posted by dolemite77
I too have pixelation problems on INHD/INHD2... Watched INHD to the Max tonight. The Beavers show was pretty cool, but pixel artifacts were everywhere.
I would like that 8000HD DVR box, but supposedly you have to be a subscriber for at least 6 months before you get one. That, or it's a $100 deposit... That's what the guy told me at the Comcast store in Mt. P anyway... (I've only been a subscriber since about June)

Why don't you just call the Comcast number and ask for the new box. When I got it they told me they actually had to have someone come out and swap the box, to check that they are working, and they didn't just allow you to pick them up at the store. No deposit for me and I have been a sub since May.


I am calling Comcast this morning regarding INHD/INHD2.

I called and got the 8000HD box today . They told me the same BS about the deposit but later changed their tune but I've been with comcast for many years . They won't be out to install mine until the 24th unless they have a cancelation .

Yep, I called and got mine too. Scheduled installation for the 26th... Anyone know if the 8000HD is better than my 3250HD box? My 3250 has a serious problem with crushing the dark colors on non-HD channels.

Glad I got mine scheduled early before you guys took all the HD boxes! Next thing you know someone might get offended on this thread. I heard the 8000 is better than the 3250 but it is from unconfirmed sources :)

The COMCAST 8000 has performed flawlesly for me, EXCEPT the DVI output has not been activated ???
rick

Originally posted by dolemite77
Yep, I called and got mine too. Scheduled installation for the 26th... Anyone know if the 8000HD is better than my 3250HD box? My 3250 has a serious problem with crushing the dark colors on non-HD channels.


Are you using DVI connections and noticing the black crush, because I never noticed it with the component connections and the 3250. My feeling with non-HD channels, especially analog is that there is some much variability in the quality of the stations that it is hard to compare signal quality between boxes. But I would say that the 8000HD is at least as good as the 3250 in picture quality, especially in HD mode. Of course it is better in one big way, it records :D and the HD recordings are great you all will be very impressed.

However, there is one problem with the 8000HD, and that is the pass-through and auto-DVI. I don't know how many people used DVI ( I wasn't) but the pass-through modes are really missed. On my Toshiba set, the picture is locked into one mode for HD signals (including upconverted SD) and has a nice stretch mode for SD signals to fill the screen. With the 3250 I could set one of the upconvert modes so that 480i SD was passed as 480i SD and the 720p and 1080i HD signals were upconverted to 1080i. The TV changes screen mode when you would switch from HD to SD and back. It was seemless. This feature is supposed to be addressed in a software upgrade along with DVI activation, according to some of the forums on the 8000HD in the recorder sections. It is apparently in beta mode in some parts of the country so we should see it soon hopefully.

So for now you can leave the box in 1080i mode and it will put in grey bars on the sides of SD (not too bad but I worry a little about burn-it) or do a three button sequence to toggle between 1080i -> 480i in the menu when you switch to SD.

Wow, we have reached 100 pages......


Andy

Does anyone know when wtat will be broadcasting HD?

It could be anywhere from January to June.

My guess is the latter.

I would encourage you and anyone else interested to e-mail them and ask. programming@wtat24.com

Originally posted by KTrout
It could be anywhere from January to June.

My guess is the latter.

I would encourage you and anyone else interested to e-mail them and ask. programming@wtat24.com

Let's hope January is it, since the Superbowl is on FOX this year. I would also encourage people to write them, but I have probably written 3 times over the last 6 months or so to that email and never received a response.

i emailed them..no reponse yet

I emailed them as well.

Man this is sweet! I get back from Vegas and turn on my HD channels to my surprise ESPNHD!!!!!!! wooohoooo my wife still thinks I am crazy. :)


Thanks TWC!

My 3250HD box sucks also. everytime it is powered down you have to go back in and set it up so it will display 720/1080

Anyone here had any luck w/ OTA reception on Daniel Island? Have a friend that's really suffering right now with signals etc..... DI is right in the middle of all three broadcast points, so I can see where it would be tough. Ol Jim is there an easy way to utilize a combiner with multiple antennas?

Thanks,
Mark

PS - Kudos to WCSC for broadcasting back to back HD NFL games this weekend.

I missed the opener of CSI Miami last night. Anyone who used a PVR and can burn it on a dvd?

Just locked on to News4JAX out of Jacksonville. Looks like a news station, but according to TitanTV it carries CSI, King of Queens, Becker. Came in on 4.2 (Lost this one and my local ABC about 5 minutes later).

Anyway the cool thing I liked about it was they stretched 4:3 content which is great for RPTV because there's no black bars. I take it, since none of our stations do this most find the stretch annoying.

Hailing from Jacksonville....I can tell you that WJXT news channel 4 was a CBS affiliate. Within the last 2 - 3 years, they dropped their affiliation with CBS.

Lancer?..where are you located?

Good Morning,

Just wanted to let you know I am packing for vacation. I'll probably have some limited access to the internet, but at this point not sure how much.

If you have any issues, please call Customer Service directly at 866-892-7201.

Back in the office next Thursday! Take Care & have a great weekend.

Mark I do not know where DI is but I found 2 ant on same band (UHF or VHF) does not work very good. Last yr I had a CM4228 for 5.1/5.2 and a RS 75 for 3.1 and 11.1 (Sav GA). When combined I could only get 11.1 lost 5.1 and 3.1 Worked ok with an A/B switch (no amp)
BTW WJTX 4.1/4.2 in JAX is not CBS but IND station. CBS is 19.1

has wcbd dt started to use their main tower ? i ask , because up here in vance,sc -
i have been receiving their signal at around 72 % , since about 7:00 pm.

Oljim: Thanks for the reply. Just saved my friend some trouble and money.

bellvg: I don't know, have a friend borrowing my OTA receiver so I can't tell. Did anyone else experience higher signal values yesterday?

I didn't watch last night but I was getting a solid 85 in Summerville for Law and Order Wednesday night. That was the best signal I have ever rec'd from them. It was even with WCIV (85) but still less than WSCS (95).

Phil

Comcast just left after installing my 8000 HD PVR and they did give me the book from Scientific Atlanta and two Comcast PVR books.
It is set up for 720P to match my Sharp Projector.

First Question: If I record a show for the PJ (component) but then want to play it back as SD and send it to the regular VCR or S-video TV will it play in that format? I guess my question really is does it record as a particular format?

Second Question: Is there a better way to switch the output to the S-Video? My TV does not have Component leads so When I don't want to use the projector, I have to reboot the 8000 and set it to output as s-video. Rebooting takes a couple of minutes and a lot of button pushing.

Thanks

planenut: Don't know for sure, but I'm pretty sure it records in 720p and you won't be able to output SD.
Second question, unfortunately no. The lack of simultaneous SD output on the 8000HD (unlike the 3250) is one of the weaker features of the unit.