Montgomery, AL - HDTV [Text View] - Page 21

Tom Servo

04-15-09, 02:27 AM

I could care less about the show (I was not going to watch it anyway) but, I disagree with this practice. I'm against censorship and think this type of practice should be illegal. Fox should be able to punish WCOV for dropping a network show, maybe even threaten to remove there affiliation. WCOV is not the cities parents, they should not call the shots for the entire city. If people are offended by the content or disagree with the show they can just change the fraking channel. I'm just sick of businesses babing everybody. I don't need WCOV to hold my hand and tell me what I should and should not be watching. When is this country going to grow up?

This is what's going on now in Boston with NBC affiliate WHDH, over Leno's upcoming 9pm show.

WHDH wants to replace Leno's show (not pre-emt it) with a 9pm newscast and NBC is threatening to pull their affiliation over that move.

Last I heard, the station is standing by their decision to kick Leno to the curb, in his ‘hometown’ no less.

Fact is, the networks vary in their attitude to pre-emtions. I think most of them make exceptions for things like the Jerry Lewis telethon but otherwise can be pretty strict. Fox isn't that strict and apparently doesn't mind some changes.

With the advent of digital television and the new availability of subchannels, this shouldn't even be an issue. If a station is gonna knock off network programming for something else they should at least have the courtesy to put the network programming on a subchannel. Or to leave the network feed alone and offer alternative programming on a subchannel if they disagree with network programming.

It's a mess that on the one hand you have NBC threating one of their affiliates over not carrying Leno and on the other you have several Fox stations bumping the Osbournes , or the ABC kerfluffle up in Birmingham over the Ellen coming out episode from years ago. Some conservative honchos at Albritton decided Birmingham couldn't handle a lesbian in prime-time. It's a hodgepodge of rules and allowances that makes no sense to us peon TV viewers.

sarasdad

04-15-09, 07:48 AM

Thanks! I don't know why they just show clips from some shows and others full episodes. Most of the other networks show complete episodes. FOX has great quality on there web site.:D

Trip in VA

04-15-09, 08:36 AM

This is what's going on now in Boston with NBC affiliate WHDH, over Leno's upcoming 9pm show.

WHDH wants to replace Leno's show (not pre-emt it) with a 9pm newscast and NBC is threatening to pull their affiliation over that move.

Last I heard, the station is standing by their decision to kick Leno to the curb, in his ‘hometown’ no less.

You're a couple of days out of date. WHDH is showing it.

- Trip

Tim Ward

04-15-09, 09:51 AM

...not HD related and not really relevant to this thread. I just saw an announcement on WCOV that they will not air the Osbournes Reloaded this week. But, will instead air a special episode of Andy Griffith Show.

hmmmm, replacing a current show with one that stopped production in 1968. WHY????

It's not specifically because of the show per se, but because the show directly follows the family-friendly American Idol, and they don't think that it would be appropriate for such a vulgar show to be shown on the heels of 'Idol with all those younger viewers watching. WCOV is not alone. Raycom has pulled it on all their Fox stations also. Additionally, the Osbourne show is only a limited-run special.

JimP

04-15-09, 01:35 PM

Or...................since you've got a family friendly show drawing viewers to WCOV, try to keep them there with Aunt B. and sell some more advertising spots.

Tom Servo

04-15-09, 05:07 PM

It's not specifically because of the show per se, but because the show directly follows the family-friendly American Idol, and they don't think that it would be appropriate for such a vulgar show to be shown on the heels of 'Idol with all those younger viewers watching. WCOV is not alone. Raycom has pulled it on all their Fox stations also. Additionally, the Osbourne show is only a limited-run special.
I thought that was what the v-chip was for. :confused:

Trip in VA

04-15-09, 05:16 PM

I thought that was what the v-chip was for. :confused:

How many people do you know who actually use it?

- Trip

Tom Servo

04-15-09, 06:12 PM

How many people do you know who actually use it?

- Trip
I don't know anyone with little kids, so… no one.

The fact remains the government mandated that the v-chip be installed in all televisions of a certain size, so there's no real excuse for station owners to save us from stupid network programming anymore.

sarasdad

04-15-09, 06:15 PM

but, maybe the network realized what a piece of crap the show was. I for one agree. Way to go FOX

rolltide1017

04-15-09, 09:12 PM

I thought that was what the v-chip was for. :confused:
I thought that was what parents are for? :confused: I don't care that it follows a family show (which I'm not sure I'd consider Idol a family show) or is a piece of crap, it shouldn't be up to WCOV or Raycom to "parent" the nation and decide what we can or cannot watch. You know what, there are these funny things called... what's the name again .... oh yea, other channels. If you don't like what is on one, change your TV to a different one, or does WCOV need to do that for you as well? Maybe we can get them to give us all a schedule of what to watch and when, that way we don't offend ourselves. When will people take responsibility for there own lives (and parents for there children's) and stop waiting for station owners, corporations or government to tell them how to live? It's just sad IMO. I hate the Osbourne's as much as the next guy, I just disagree with what WCOV did.

Since WCOV wants to tell me what I can and cannot watch on there station, I have decided to delete my DVR season pass for Dollhouse. They don't want me to watch certain things well, I'll just not watch them ever (not even Andy Griffith).

sarasdad

04-16-09, 05:39 AM

That will show them!:D

rolltide1017

04-16-09, 09:04 AM

Well, that's all I can do, it's the only show I watch on WCOV anyway (and I was loosing interest in it anyway).

I've made my position clear, I just don't agree with what WCOV and other stations did (this time or any other time they bump a show).

JimP

04-16-09, 09:15 AM

...and with all the substations, if a show is going to run over, move it to one of the substations.

bdfox18doe

04-16-09, 09:34 AM

...and with all the substations, if a show is going to run over, move it to one of the substations.

It's just not that simple..first off, under our affiliation agreements,we can't just "move" it...we don't own the program rights and just can't decide to do such.. few of us have the switching infrastructure to do so.. and..
what about cable and satellite viewers who don't get the subchannels?

sarasdad

04-16-09, 02:34 PM

if you are interested you can watch complete episodes on line with very few commercials http://streaming.myfoxmontgomery.com/index.html#/osbournes-reloaded/episode-1/

JimP

04-21-09, 03:10 AM

Stan,

Spoke to WNCF today and they said that on the 20th, they'll be changing their digital frequency number to 32 and start broadcasting from their tower that is currently in use to broadcast their analog signal. This is the tower that's about 2 miles from channel 8's tower.

Thought I'd check and found that I'm still getting a pretty good signal on digital frequency 51 and not much of one on 32.

Is anyone getting a strong signal on digital frequency 32? Might have to rescan channels.

eerolltide06

04-21-09, 12:43 PM

Anyone know if Brighthouse Elmore has Multistream Cable Cards?

coolearl

04-21-09, 01:07 PM

Anyone know if Brighthouse Elmore has Multistream Cable Cards?

Yes they do.

4bama

04-21-09, 05:41 PM

Thought I'd check and found that I'm still getting a pretty good signal on digital frequency 51 and not much of one on 32.

Is anyone getting a strong signal on digital frequency 32? Might have to rescan channels.

I just scanned for 32 (on 32 freq.) with my Dish 622 and gets strong signals for 32.1 and 32.2 (CW). I did not have 32.2 on the 51 frequency. I'm about 65 air miles from the transmit tower and getting signal strength of 80 on both channels... I was only getting about 60 on the 51 frequency...

I deleted the old 32 (51) before rescanning.

SD4934

04-21-09, 06:38 PM

Thought I'd check and found that I'm still getting a pretty good signal on digital frequency 51 and not much of one on 32.

Is anyone getting a strong signal on digital frequency 32? Might have to rescan channels.
Jim, I rescanned yesterday afternoon (I was no longer getting a signal) and am now getting a fairly good signal. I had to point my antenna more towards
Selma. Not far enough to get WAKA but far enough to get WNCF but still get WCOV and WSFA. I wish WAKA would up their power so I get get it, along with the other OTA channels, without moving my antenna.

JimP

04-21-09, 07:27 PM

brittcrowell

04-21-09, 08:51 PM

Anyone know if Brighthouse Elmore has Multistream Cable Cards?

Yes they do.

OK I know what a Cable card is. I didn't know bright house had them.

Now what is a Multistream Cable Card?

Britt (googling after I hit post)

SD4934

04-21-09, 09:58 PM

Stan,

I'm getting WNCF digital on frequency 32 now. Signal strength is pretty good. It use to be 67 when transmitting on 51 and now its floats between 75 and 80 on digital 32.

How's your reception for channel 8? When I have the antenna pointed at the tower I can get between 65 and 70. At that antenna setting WCOV and WSFA are problematic at best. Every once in a while (I guess when atmospheric conditions are right) I can get all of the channels from one spot, but that usually only lasts a few days at most.

Tim Ward

04-22-09, 09:16 AM

JimP

04-22-09, 09:43 AM

SD4934

04-22-09, 07:13 PM

Stan,
From Jasmine Hills, channel 8 and 12 are 58 degrees apart. I wish there was some way to get all the channels with a single antenna solution, but I just don't see it happening. Sounds like you need to go with a dual antennas too.

Tim,
Seems that you should be getting something. Check out TVfools.com to get a map of where the stations are located and be sure that you're aiming a UHF antenna in the direction of the channel(s) you're trying to receive. Which area in Montgomery are you and what kind of antenna are you using?

Jim, I overstated my signal strenth for 8. I hadn't checked it for a little while. I checked it this afternoon and it was in the 30-35 range. Even with this, I was getting a good picture with no dropouts. I was hoping WAKA would up their strength so I could get all channels from one antenna location.
At least I still have a cable feed with my HD locals (I had basic cable turned off when the rate increase went into effect--my SD channels went away but from some reason I still get the HD locals) so I can watch 8 in real time without messing with my antenna.

blp

04-22-09, 07:46 PM

CW is now live OTA on 22-1. Getting nothing on 32.1 or .2. Last night on my indoor SS received 3-1 Columbus, B'ham's 6-1,13-1,42.1 and 68-1. No 21.1(CW) for awhile. Looks like they cut power. Conditions look good for tonight also.

4bama

04-23-09, 07:52 AM

Jim, I overstated my signal strenth for 8. I hadn't checked it for a little while. I checked it this afternoon and it was in the 30-35 range. Even with this, I was getting a good picture with no dropouts. I was hoping WAKA would up their strength so I could get all channels from one antenna location.
At least I still have a cable feed with my HD locals (I had basic cable turned off when the rate increase went into effect--my SD channels went away but from some reason I still get the HD locals) so I can watch 8 in real time without messing with my antenna.

I scanned digital 42 last night and noticed channel 8 has all 3 feeds up and with stronger signals (78) on all 3. PSIP still shows channel 70 for these feeds but they are strong over here in Clay county. Weather feed on 8.3 looks good again.

4bama

04-24-09, 06:02 AM

I have 10% or less on 32, and around 50% on 51. Still no WAKA. I guess I've waited long enough to get a decent antenna!

Tim, last night I scanned for ABC32 and found no signal 51 but did find dual signals on digital 22 and 32.

32.1=22.2=ABC32 HD

32.2=22.1= CW

Signal strengths on all 4 channels are good, about 75-80 here. What is the rationale for 32 to transmit the same signals on two different frequencies?

(Edit) I just looked at AVC32's web site and copied this info from their DTV transition page:

After June 12th, 2009;

Call Letters| Affiliation| DTV Main| Channel Channel Frequency

WSFA NBC 12.1 12
WAKA CBS 8.1 42
WCOV FOX 20.1 20
WNCF ABC 32.1 32
WAIQ PBS 26.1 27
WMCF TBN 45.1 46
WBMM CW 22.1 22

I had assumed that 32 would wind up on the 32 frequency, but at 22???

PDCL

04-24-09, 08:27 AM

Anyone know about the Brighthouse QAM channels? I lost all of mine except the music channels about 2 days ago. Rescanned and didn't find anything new.

4bama

04-24-09, 05:41 PM

I just looked at AVC32's web site and copied this info from their DTV transition page:
After June 12th, 2009;

Call Letters| Affiliation| DTV Main| Channel Channel Frequency

WSFA NBC 12.1 12
WAKA CBS 8.1 42
WCOV FOX 20.1 20
WNCF ABC 32.1 32
WAIQ PBS 26.1 27
WMCF TBN 45.1 46
WBMM CW 22.1 22

I had assumed that 32 would wind up on the 32 frequency, but at 22???

22.1 will be CW-HD, 22.2 will be CW-SD and 32.1 will be ABC32-HD and 32.2 will be ABC32-SD...??

Trip in VA

04-24-09, 06:52 PM

22.1 will be CW-HD, 22.2 will be CW-SD and 32.1 will be ABC32-HD and 32.2 will be ABC32-SD...??

Since CW-HD is not available to WNCF, I doubt it. I imagine they're doing this to expand the coverage in case a person can receive one and not the other.

- Trip

WAKA-DT 8

04-27-09, 10:29 AM

Since CW-HD is not available to WNCF, I doubt it. I imagine they're doing this to expand the coverage in case a person can receive one and not the other.

- Trip

WNCF and WBMM's rationale is maximum coverage of the market using 2 marginal signals (if you can't get one, try the other). 51 is now gone.
32-1 seems to be the only HD-capable stream.

WBMM could offer a HD CW feed, but only if they purchased additional equipment and switched the feed manually. That would probably not happen here due to cost.

Our corporate engineering head tells me 2-720P signals are now possible together, but again costly "extra" equipment would be involved, and I don't see WNCF/WBMM doing that either.

Trip in VA

04-27-09, 11:22 AM

WNCF and WBMM's rationale is maximum coverage of the market using 2 marginal signals (if you can't get one, try the other). 51 is now gone.
32-1 seems to be the only HD-capable stream.

SiliconDust implies that 22-2 is HD capable.

WBMM could offer a HD CW feed, but only if they purchased additional equipment and switched the feed manually. That would probably not happen here due to cost.

That was my assumption. I know of only one station that's pulling down the CW+ feed as their only CW feed and is doing HD. (KLCW in Lubbock). KNIN, WGSA, and WWMB have CW+ on a subchannel in addition to a primary HD with an independent schedule.

Our corporate engineering head tells me 2-720P signals are now possible together, but again costly "extra" equipment would be involved, and I don't see WNCF/WBMM doing that either.

It's "doable" just as 5 1080i streams is doable. You can do it, but most folks here wouldn't like the results. I can't imagine most people who spent a lot of money on big TVs would.

ABC has just started doing dual HD on all its O&O stations (still to come--WJRT and WTVG). Go check out the OTA threads in New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago to see what people think of the "doable" dual 720p.

- Trip

SD4934

04-28-09, 05:53 PM

What is WNCF's signal strength now? Getting their signal has become really problematic for me.

Wesro

04-29-09, 12:37 PM

Just curious if anyone in the Eufaula area gets a digital signal from any Montgomery stations? The only one I can get is WCOV and that one comes in at about 80%.

SD4934

04-29-09, 10:29 PM

What is WNCF's signal strength now? Getting their signal has become really problematic for me. I ran setup again yesterday and still no better. Tonight I wiped out my OTA channels and started from scratch. I'm getting WNCF again.

sarasdad

05-03-09, 01:20 PM

Is everyone ok. I miss yall . Whats uppppppppp

cobolisdead

05-04-09, 11:45 AM

Anyone have the listing of the new channels Knology is suppossed to add to their HD lineup? My friend in Montgomery got a letter saying that they were going to add them but couldn't tell me which channels or when they were adding them? I've yet to receive a letter.

blp

05-04-09, 01:27 PM

New HD channels are HGTV, Animal Planet, Food Network, AMC, ABC Family, Disney, Speed, Weather Channel, FX, Planet Green and Outdoor Channel. No Sci-Fi or USA. Later this fall 24 hours of SportsSouth and Fox Sports South.

cobolisdead

05-04-09, 04:05 PM

Awesome!

I was hoping to see Cartoon network and Sci Fi on there.

sarasdad

05-04-09, 07:55 PM

In my opinion Sci Fi is not worth it!

Tom Servo

05-05-09, 03:53 AM

In my opinion Sci Fi is not worth it!
Cartoon Network would be the definite 'not worth it' in that list. At least Sci-Fi shows stuff in HD occasionally. CN is, unless something has changed in the last few months, 99.9% stretch-o-vision except for Star Wars: Clone Wars, which is only shown once in HD, with repeats in SD stretch.

JimP

05-05-09, 06:55 AM

In my opinion Sci Fi is not worth it!

Not interested in Star Trek, Stargate, Star Wars,....you know, anything with Star in its name?

Battlestar Galactic was my favorite till it played out.

rolltide1017

05-05-09, 08:59 AM

Cartoon Network would be the definite 'not worth it' in that list. At least Sci-Fi shows stuff in HD occasionally. CN is, unless something has changed in the last few months, 99.9% stretch-o-vision except for Star Wars: Clone Wars, which is only shown once in HD, with repeats in SD stretch.
I agree and I've never understood why CN doesn't broadcast the Clone Wars repeats in HD. If they have the technology to broadcast it in HD the first time, then they should be able to use the same technology to rebroadcast it in HD. At least all of SciFi's original programming is in HD these days, even the rebroadcast. BSG looked good in HD and so did SG:A. Also, SciFi doesn't stretch there SD stuff when they show things like ST Enterprise or other syndicated shows.

sarasdad

05-05-09, 11:27 PM

Tried to watch American Idol, which I dvr, and it was unwatchable on Brighthouse. Pixilating awful. Hope Fringe is ok. Anyone have the same problem OTA or cable?

buckeye1

05-06-09, 09:22 AM

Don't watch american idol but fringe was fine on charter and ota.

sarasdad

05-06-09, 11:41 AM

Don't watch american idol but fringe was fine on charter and ota.

Thank you for the info:D

Scott Smith

05-06-09, 07:46 PM

Scott Smith

05-06-09, 07:48 PM

Has anyone gotten the OTA locals to work on Directv HR20 or 21?

Eddie L.

05-07-09, 09:54 AM

Has anyone gotten the OTA locals to work on Directv HR20 or 21?

My living room has an HR20 on it, and I've got an OTA antenna hooked up to it. It seems to work fine for me, but I rely on the New York HD feeds because of the inconsistent nature of the Montgomery locals' signal. I got "burned" early on when I had set the HR20 to record something on WCOV and their signal was out so I missed the whole episode (I think it was an episode of "24"). My address qualifies for DNS, so I just use those when setting a series to record. I'll watch the locals when the weather is bad or when there is an SEC football game on, and I've never had any real trouble with that part of it.

buckeye1

05-07-09, 11:58 AM

Has anyone gotten the OTA locals to work on Directv HR20 or 21?

Have 2 hr20s that have no problems with WCOV or WSFA. Have had problems with WAKA since the storm messed with the tower and WNCF since they moved. I won't mess with my antenna again until June. I will look at the HR250 in the kids room tonight to see if it works any better.

I record on the mythtv box fed from charter so the lack off those channels hasn't been a show stopper for me.

bamavaman

05-07-09, 04:28 PM

Has anyone gotten the OTA locals to work on Directv HR20 or 21?

Yes,
I am able to receive all Montgomery OTA locals (digital) using my HR-21 and AM 21 OTA receiver.

SD4934

05-07-09, 08:33 PM

Just in case anybody is interested. There is a great deal on the Yamama RXV 3900 receiver at 6th Ave. Electronics (www.6ave.com). If you use the code AFLYAM1188 it knocks the price down from $1799 to $1188. I've got one coming tomorrow. I was looking for a new reciever and couldn't decide between Denon and Yamaha (although I've always had Yamaha), but when I saw that price, that made the decision for me. I think you can find similar deals on other brands if you can find the code. I found the code in the 3900 thread in the reciever's forum on AVS Forum. (Searching with Bountii.com will give you some codes, but the one I found on AVS Forum was better than the code I found on Bountii.) By the way, 6th Avenue is an authorized dealer for the brands they carry. (This is not a paid advertisement.)

Scott Smith

05-07-09, 09:34 PM

Yes,
I am able to receive all Montgomery OTA locals (digital) using my HR-21 and AM 21 OTA receiver.

What zip code are you pluging in? I am getting the old frequencies.

Scott Smith

05-07-09, 09:34 PM

Is everyone high and dry?

JimP

05-08-09, 02:43 AM

Stan,

Congrats on the Yamaha receiver.

So when are you having us over to demo it? :)

Thought I'd read up on the RX-V3900. Interesting that home networking is such a big thing. That could be very handy given that streaming video and download services are getting mainstream.

JimP

05-08-09, 02:52 AM

Is everyone high and dry?

Yeah, wasn't that incredible.

They had the traffic routed around the eastern bypass and 231 north intersection (or boat landing, whichever). In the detour, I saw a house that must have been a couple of feet underwater.

Anybody over in Dalraida have flooding problems?

Scott Smith

05-08-09, 07:35 AM

Yea Jim believe it or not high ground wasn't necessarily safe this time.
Several houses under water just simply because the water couldn't drain away fast enough.

Ya know what the kicker is? If you didn't have flood insurance your screwed.
That was practically a biblical flood!

4bama

05-08-09, 10:40 AM

As of 9:30am today:

361/5305 MAVTV
373/5307 logo
374/5304 FTV
9468/159/5344 SPEED
9475/136/5345 FX

jtrippe

05-08-09, 11:23 AM

Scott Smith

05-08-09, 01:08 PM

I have classic Gold with Platinum HD and those channels aren't showing up. I'll reboot and see if I get them.

Scott Smith

05-08-09, 01:27 PM

The following are available in Classic Bronze (AT200) HD or higher:

FX HD Channel 136

Speed HD Channel 150

The following are available in the HD Platinum add-on pack:

Logo HD Channel 373

Mav HD Channel 361

Fashion TV HD Channel 374

Turbo subscribers left out again. :mad:

After rebooting I have these:
Logo HD Channel 373

Mav HD Channel 361

Fashion TV HD Channel 374

But I dont have Speed and FX. Whats up with that?

jtrippe

05-08-09, 02:49 PM

After rebooting I have these:
Logo HD Channel 373

Mav HD Channel 361

Fashion TV HD Channel 374

But I dont have Speed and FX. Whats up with that?

Call Dish at 18883876371. Tell them one of the channels you already have, like ESPN Hd, is not working properly and to please re-hit or re-authorize the account. The CSRs won't know that the new channels are live yet. They are the last to know. That should do it.

cobolisdead

05-08-09, 05:16 PM

4bama

05-08-09, 05:30 PM

After rebooting I have these:
Logo HD Channel 373

Mav HD Channel 361

Fashion TV HD Channel 374

But I dont have Speed and FX. Whats up with that?

After changing your favorites guide to ALL HD check those channels, if they show up in RED then your package does not qualify for them, or if you think you are subscribing to those channels, call Dish and complain.

I have AT250 plus HD Plat. and they all are active here....

4bama

05-08-09, 05:48 PM

After rebooting I have these:
Logo HD Channel 373

Mav HD Channel 361

Fashion TV HD Channel 374

But I dont have Speed and FX. Whats up with that?

DISH Network(R) Introduces New National HD Channels

--Leads All TV Service Providers with More Than 140 National HD Channels

ENGLEWOOD, Colo., May 8, 2009 /PRNewswire-FirstCall via COMTEX News Network/ -- Today, DISH Network(R) introduces the high definition feeds of: FX, SPEED, Fashion TV (FTV), Logo and MavTV, fortifying its HD superiority and bringing its total national HD count to more than 140 channels. DISH Network also announced that it will now host the complete 24-hour feed of The N on DISH Network Ch. 181, its new permanent location. Additionally, DISH Network will launch MSNBC HD in June.
"No one has more HD than DISH Network," said Dave Shull, senior vice president of Programming for DISH Network. "We're delivering the best HD service, and when you add our DVR technology with our affordable pricing, DISH Network is the only choice for consumers looking for the ultimate HD experience."

FX HD and SPEED HD are located in DISH Network's Classic Silver 200 HD programming package and above, available to consumers starting at $22.99 per month for the first six months, along with free installation, a free HD DVR and three months of free premium channels, including HBO and Showtime. FTV HD, Logo and MavTV HD are available in PlatinumHD, an HD add on package available to subscribers for just $10 per month.
For more information about DISH Network, the nation's HD leader, visit www.dishnetwork.com.

About DISH Network Corporation
DISH Network Corporation (Nasdaq: DISH) provides approximately 13.678 million satellite TV customers as of Dec. 31, 2008 with the highest quality programming and technology at the best value, including the lowest all-digital price nationwide. Customers have access to hundreds of video and audio channels, the most international channels in the U.S., state-of-the-art interactive TV applications, and award-winning HD and DVR technology including 1080p Video on Demand and the DuoDVR(TM) ViP(R) 722 DVR, a CNET and PC Magazine "Editors' Choice." DISH Network is included in the Nasdaq-100 Index (NDX) and is a Fortune 250 company. Visit www.dishnetwork.com.

SOURCE DISH Network Corporation

http://www.dishnetwork.com
Copyright (C) 2009 PR Newswire. All rights reserved
__________________
-- Somebody IS watching me.

Scott Smith

05-09-09, 11:01 AM

Well I got on a Chat last night with Dish. Told them my BETHD was in red. ;)

About 5 min later I had Speed HD and FX HD. :cool:

jns82

05-14-09, 07:47 PM

Has anyone heard whether WSFA is going to receive the waiver to increase their power output on their digital signal?

Any info appreciated-

sarasdad

05-16-09, 06:13 PM

???????????????????/

47HO

05-20-09, 09:28 AM

jns,
Please explain this waiver.

I was under the impression that WSFA will be moving their signal over to VHF 12, then increasing output.

wsmith8790

05-20-09, 09:06 PM

probably on June 12th

JimP

05-21-09, 12:45 AM

Isn't 12 still UHF?

rolltide1017

05-21-09, 08:44 AM

Nope, 12 is the last VHF channel (UHF starts at 13).

Trip in VA

05-21-09, 10:10 AM

UHF starts at 14. 13 is the last VHF channel.

- Trip

bdfox18doe

05-21-09, 10:12 AM

Me thinks JimP meant that WSFA is still transmitting on a UHF channel and has not moved to 12 yet.......

rolltide1017

05-21-09, 10:43 AM

UHF starts at 14. 13 is the last VHF channel.

- Trip
That's right, my bad.

Straximus

05-23-09, 02:23 AM

Hello everyone. I've been lurking around this thread for several months now.

I finally got around to building a 4-bay UHF bowtie antenna today, something I've been wanting to try for months, and stuck it in my attic (in Forest Hills) oriented toward the southwest.

WSFA, WAIQ, and WCOV have very strong signals. WAKA drops out enough to be unwatchable, and WNCF doesn't come in at all. Looks like I'll have to get a roof mount and an 8-bay if I'm to have any chance of picking them up.

While I'm posting, has anyone else noticed that Knology is broadcasting their Peachtree Braves digital channel in clear QAM? For now at least...

JimP

05-23-09, 06:33 AM

You built your own UHF antenna?

Kewl.....got a picture of it or a link to the plans. Sounds interesting.

You'll definately get an upgrade in signal sensitivity moving the antenna out of the attic onto your roof. Higher is better and the fewer roofs the signal has to go through, also better. But that might not be enough. The stations transmitters are spread out and depending on the directionality of your antenna, you may have to rotate it to pick up some of the stations.

One thing you might want to do is to wait until after the June 12th analog shutoff. At that time, the digital stations that are transmitting at a reduced power level get to go full power. I think WNCF is one of those. Don't remember about WAKA.

Don't think you'll have a problem with your UHF antenna getting WSFA when they switch to VHF 12. At least with my channel master antennas, I can go into the upper VHF channels.

JimP

05-23-09, 09:10 AM

Anyone interested in a Pioneer 51 with low milage? Probably has had fewer than 10 disc played on it.

sarasdad

05-23-09, 09:13 AM

me do. What you asking for it Jim:D

JimP

05-23-09, 09:19 AM

Check your PM in a few minutes.

sarasdad

05-23-09, 09:34 AM

Got it . Thanks

Trip in VA

05-23-09, 10:11 AM

WAKA is, to my knowledge, currently at 50 kW. It'll boost to 1000 kW on or just after the transition date.

I think WNCF is already at full power. If you can't receive it on channel 32, try receiving it on channel 22.

- Trip

Straximus

05-25-09, 02:56 AM

You built your own UHF antenna?

Kewl.....got a picture of it or a link to the plans. Sounds interesting.

I haven't taken a picture yet, but I'm planning on crawling back up there to get a shot of it to show off later. I tried to post a link in my first post to the plans, but apparently I have to post three times before I can post a link. Two down.

WAKA is, to my knowledge, currently at 50 kW. It'll boost to 1000 kW on or just after the transition date.

I think WNCF is already at full power. If you can't receive it on channel 32, try receiving it on channel 22.

Good to know. I remember reading that here at some point, but it had long since slipped my mind. I should have no problem getting WAKA then.

I tried for 22 as well, but had no success. However, after some reading last night I learned that I should probably replace my amplifier with a pre-amp for best results. I'll give that a try soon and see what kind of difference it makes.

brittcrowell

05-26-09, 02:05 AM

Before I spent too much time or money, I would wait a few weeks after the "NEW" transition date to start worrying about channel strength.

Patience is a virtue.

Britt

jns82

05-30-09, 06:34 PM

jns,
Please explain this waiver.

I was under the impression that WSFA will be moving their signal over to VHF 12, then increasing output.
This is my understanding as well. However, I believe they need to obtain a waiver from the FCC before they increase their signal.

JimP

05-30-09, 10:45 PM

I just got back from Atlanta's Fox Theater where I saw the performance of "Jersey Boys" a story of Frankie Valli and the four Seasons. A lot of very talented people and very well done.

I highly recommend it.

WackyEngineer

06-01-09, 03:11 PM

This is my understanding as well. However, I believe they need to obtain a waiver from the FCC before they increase their signal.

Wow, this stuff sure can be confusing... If I remember correctly, WSFA originally planned for their digital to end up on RF channel 12 with a directional antenna. Then about a year ago, they decided to re-use their current non-directional antenna. At that time, there was a freeze on maximizations, so the FCC wouldn't consider a plan that would increase their coverage area. For this reason, they applied for a construction permit to use their existing antenna at a power of 1.16 kW, and this application was approved. Once the freeze on maximizations was lifted, they applied to increase power to 31.6 kW. That application was granted in February of this year.

So, long story short, on June 13th, WSFA should be operating at 31.6 kW on RF channel 12.

Russ

sarasdad

06-01-09, 04:31 PM

Brighthouse drops HDNET AND HD MOVIES 781 782. Now on these channels Smithsonian hd and Mav tv.

blp

06-01-09, 05:51 PM

Brighthouse customers got the shaft on that deal. Will your cable bill be decrease? NOPE! Knology cable went out around 3 PM today and when I call them the CR said they can send some one out Thursday..Thursday!!! Cable came back on around 4 PM.I knew it was a local outage but the CR did not have a clue as usual.

bdfox18doe

06-01-09, 06:21 PM

. the CR did not have a clue as usual.

well duhh..CSR: "Clueless Service Rep" :D

Scott Smith

06-01-09, 06:27 PM

BLP where do you live?

Another pole got taken out on Waresferry today (I pole down from the one last Sunday). It took out knology's Fiber.

zho40

06-01-09, 09:02 PM

Anyone user a Tivo HD w/ cablecards on Brighthouse? If so are there any gotchas to look out for?

blp

06-02-09, 12:28 AM

BLP where do you live?

Another pole got taken out on Waresferry today (I pole down from the one last Sunday). It took out knology's Fiber.

In that area..The CR did say others had reported an outage in the area but he has to send someone to my house to check it out. I said forget it..Wouldn't be calling them again unless I need someone out at my house.

On another note I see channel 67 is off the OTA. Still going on cable. I guess thats one way of getting around not going digital..Someone bought them out in April but I have not read of any digital plans.

JimP

06-02-09, 03:55 AM

ho40,

I use to use my TIVo S3 with cablecards with Brighthouse.

One of the big gotchas is that they charge you more than the going rate for two cable cards (dual tuners) and overall they charge you about the same as if you were using their Motorola cable box.

Technically, I had problems with the Motorola cable box causing popping sounds through my prepro that the TIVO doesn't have, so that's one thing on the good side.

Now with switched video becoming the next big thing, I'd be sure that your TIVO HD has a working tuning adapter from Brighthouse that'll let it work with their system. Don't assume that it will. I think Brighthouse may have to furnish it. Its not the same as the cablecards.

I still use Brighthouse for high speed internet, but use Dishnetwork satellite and OTA with my S3. Got tired of dealing with Brighthouse's fairly often signal problems, pricing plans that didn't seem fair, usually behind adding HD channels, and as someone posted above...here they are dropping some good channels.

Scott Smith

06-02-09, 08:21 AM

I was told the infrastructure has been installed to start rolling out ATT Uverse in Montgomery!
Could be 2010 before it's available but it looks like the cable company's will have competition.

bdfox18doe

06-02-09, 08:25 AM

I would not get my hopes up for U-Verse Scott. It hasn't really done anything here (I see the re-trans fee reports) and have a friend who is an engineer with
AT&T so I hear his stories. I can't get it at my house, as I am @ 5000' which is too far away from the V-RAD. Plus, they are limited to 25 mb/s total as of now.

coolearl

06-02-09, 10:24 AM

Anyone user a Tivo HD w/ cablecards on Brighthouse? If so are there any gotchas to look out for?

I use a Tivo HD on Brighthouse. The only problem I have with mine is when I change service. The people in the Wetumpka office are very knowledgeable, the people in Birmingham... not so much... If you have problems call back from 8-4 and demand to talk to a CSR in Wetumpka.

One thing to watch out for is when you schedule the service call make sure the CSR tells them to bring out an M-Card. It serves as a dual tuner cable card. Brighthouse in our area DOES carry them (I have one). Other than that I really have no complaints about Brighthouse. They were a little slow to add new channels but they have a pretty nice spread of HD now (and seem to have just added CW - just in time for them to cancel Reaper BOO!!!)

sarasdad

06-02-09, 01:48 PM

cw is not HD

Scott Smith

06-02-09, 04:43 PM

bdfox18doe

06-02-09, 05:22 PM

Bob I was talking to a friend that was installing the multiplexers on the backbone connecting Huntsville, Montgomery, Atlanta, and Birmingham.

32 yes 32 OC-192's over 2 strands of glass. :eek:

Definition of OC-192:

OC-192 is a network line with transmission speeds of up to 9953.28 Mbit/s

That's 10gig x 32 sports fans!

Yea.. Amazing isn't it..we have a big fat sonet loop like that here into this building. We don't buy all of it tho..that's how WAKA's PSIP, Internet, Program Logs, email, etc..and WOLO's Video between Columbia..all get handled from here..But that's not what goes to the home for the AT&T Consumer. It's pretty neat to hear what is going on and how they do it all nationwide.

bdfox18doe

06-02-09, 05:29 PM

By the way, here is an interesting read for those interested as to what video you can carry on a single GbE circuit.

http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&ct=res&cd=7&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.harmonicinc.com%2Fview_collateral.cfm%3 FID%3D586&ei=xZglSrwq0763B8zSyNkG&rct=j&q=Gbe+video+payload&usg=AFQjCNEQXwkg0wDxLgsw9zvVeCGHTHOUfQ

Scott Smith

06-02-09, 07:19 PM

I'm quoting a CCTV camera job right now that requires 16 mega pixel video!
A 5 second clip at 5 frames per second is 50 meg!

http://avigilon.com/products/samplefootage/

bdfox18doe

06-02-09, 07:28 PM

Scott,
See ebay item # 30124206094 I have one here. Very Nice Unit, need 4 at home to replace my Channel Plus Mods. :(

brian_esq

06-02-09, 08:26 PM

Brighthouse drops HDNET AND HD MOVIES 781 782. Now on these channels Smithsonian hd and Mav tv.

I was very surprised by this. I love the HD programming on HDNet and HD Movies. I paid extra for it as these channels were in a special HD Tier requiring an additional fee. I will really miss these two channels and am considering dropping this HD Tier as the other remaining channels are not worth the extra money. MGM HD shows old, unpopular movies. Universal HD is pretty good. HDNet Movies showed classic movies day in and day out.

I also wonder where the announcement was concerning these substitutions. I have seen nothing.

brian_esq

06-02-09, 08:32 PM

I use a Tivo HD on Brighthouse. The only problem I have with mine is when I change service. The people in the Wetumpka office are very knowledgeable, the people in Birmingham... not so much... If you have problems call back from 8-4 and demand to talk to a CSR in Wetumpka.

One thing to watch out for is when you schedule the service call make sure the CSR tells them to bring out an M-Card. It serves as a dual tuner cable card. Brighthouse in our area DOES carry them (I have one). Other than that I really have no complaints about Brighthouse. They were a little slow to add new channels but they have a pretty nice spread of HD now (and seem to have just added CW - just in time for them to cancel Reaper BOO!!!)

I have a TiVo Series 3 with 2 cable cards. I love my TiVo and wouldn't trade it for anything. My signal with Brighthouse has been excellent since they replaced (free of charge) the line to my house from the curbside box. HOWEVER, I agree that whenever you make a change (i.e. add/drop premium channels), the people in their Birmingham customer service office can really mess things up with the cable cards. You may lose a lot of the channels you had in order to add HBO or Showtime. They just don't seem to know how to turn one thing on or off without affecting something else. Then, the only solution they seem to offer is to send a repairman out which takes 1/2 of your day. If you can get the local office to make changes to your account, they seem to always get it right. Getting to the local office, though, is very difficult by telephone. It seems to require a physical trip to Wetumpka.

Scott Smith

06-02-09, 09:35 PM

I love the HD programming on HDNet and HD Movies.

Not to mention HDNET shows all the Space Shuttle launches live in HD.

sarasdad

06-03-09, 05:59 AM

I was very surprised by this. I love the HD programming on HDNet and HD Movies. I paid extra for it as these channels were in a special HD Tier requiring an additional fee. I will really miss these two channels and am considering dropping this HD Tier as the other remaining channels are not worth the extra money. MGM HD shows old, unpopular movies. Universal HD is pretty good. HDNet Movies showed classic movies day in and day out.

I also wonder where the announcement was concerning these substitutions. I have seen nothing.
dittto, It has been on there web site about dropping these channels for a while. They have this now on there site:Channel Additions and Changes

Important Notice to HD Pack Customers

(Our agreements with programming services routinely expire from time to time. Our agreement with HD Nets expires on May 31, 2009, and at such time HD Net and/or HD Net Movies may either be dropped from the HD Pack or repositioned to another tier of service.) The other new channels started Monday I think. Mav tv is horrible! :mad:

Scott Smith

06-03-09, 07:53 AM

Hey Bob,

0 results found for 30124206094

bdfox18doe

06-03-09, 07:55 AM

Try:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=230124206094

jtrippe

06-03-09, 05:40 PM

WAKA-DT 8

06-04-09, 12:34 PM

I called WJRM MyNetwork 67 today. They told me that thier digital signal will go live on June 12th. The engineer was out working on it today. I get the analog version but it is very, very grainy OTA in Wetumpka. I hope the digital coverage is better.

Don't expect alot. If they make it, it'll be 50kw on channel 48. To compare,
CW (channel 22) is running 65kw from (nearly) the same location and height, but at a much more favorable frequency. A "thin" signal for WRJM at best. But all they are airing now is country music videos. They seem to have dropped the MyTv network.

Tom Servo

06-04-09, 03:13 PM

Don't expect alot. If they make it, it'll be 50kw on channel 48. To compare,
CW (channel 22) is running 65kw from (nearly) the same location and height, but at a much more favorable frequency. A "thin" signal for WRJM at best. But all they are airing now is country music videos. They seem to have dropped the MyTv network.
Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WRJM-TV) has a blurb about that, saying, “WRJM is experiencing satellite problems with the MyNetworkTV feed and has been unable to show network programming due to reconfiguring the station's equipment for its upcoming transition to digital [1]. In its place, programming from the Artists and Fans country music video network has aired instead.”

WAKA-DT 8

06-05-09, 02:00 PM

Wikipedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WRJM-TV) has a blurb about that, saying, “WRJM is experiencing satellite problems with the MyNetworkTV feed and has been unable to show network programming due to reconfiguring the station's equipment for its upcoming transition to digital [1]. In its place, programming from the Artists and Fans country music video network has aired instead.”

Take this for what it's worth (from a industry pub today): "The FCC says that 35 full-power stations, including some big 4 network affiliates in smaller markets, will cease operations next week when all stations have to go digital only....Areas that will lose a big 6 affiliate are....Troy, AL (MyNet)".

There were 6 PBS stations on the list and 29 commercials. The big 6, of course, include CW and MyNet and 10 stations of the 29 were on that list,
including Troy.
Like I said above, "If they (WRJM) make it". Not saying they won't...but nothing they have said in the past has come true. And I don't buy the satellite loss due to technical difficulties of MyNet either. That would be like us losing CBS and not trying to recover it at once.....or a hospital losing all their beds and bed pans and continuing to operate. MyNet is (was) their bread and butter. You think maybe AFN comes in on satellite too? Something is just not right in Troy.

jtrippe

06-05-09, 04:19 PM

I figured something was fishy with WRJM. However, if you have Dish you can get some CW and MyNetwork stations. The Superstations pack is $5.99 per month. I have the MyNet in NY, WWOR, for $1.50 per month as you can also buy them a la carte. I was getting it to watch some baseball but I may keep it after baseball season if WRJM goes off of the air.

Scott Smith

06-05-09, 08:30 PM

I wonder if they will extend the cut off date again?

Tom Servo

06-06-09, 03:46 AM

I wonder if they will extend the cut off date again?
I sure hope not. I'm getting tired of the incessant reminders during the newscasts up here, and tired of some channels being lower power for whatever reason or another... It's a mess.

Bama29

06-06-09, 09:53 AM

I wonder if they will extend the cut off date again?

A quote from the Prez on MSNBC concerning this.

Thurs., June 4, 2009

WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama warned Americans on Thursday who have not prepared for the June 12 transition to digital television that their TVs could go dark if they do not get a converter box soon.

"I want to be clear: there will not be another delay. I urge everyone who is not yet prepared to act today, so you don't lose important news and emergency information on June 12,"

sarasdad

06-11-09, 04:17 PM

JimP

06-11-09, 04:28 PM

So how many phone calls do you think the remaining analog stations will get tomorrow when analog is shut down?

sarasdad

06-11-09, 04:33 PM

So how many phone calls do you think the remaining analog stations will get tomorrow when analog is shut down?
I bet they take the phone off the hook and then it's the weekend. :D

4bama

06-11-09, 04:54 PM

Question?
Tomorrow is the BIG DAY. Is everyone at full power now or does that start tomorrow? I know analog is suppose to be gone just want to know is tomorrow the best we get , or is there more to come later? Thanks and Roll Tide anyway! Whew!!!!!!!!!!!!

The local B'ham stations are saying 11:55pm or midnight Friday is the analog cutoff.

I would wait until Saturday to rescan for new channel assignments...how much power is still up to the local station's hardware capability and the FCC permits they have...hopefully all will be ready to go online with their full allocated power.

WackyEngineer

06-11-09, 05:11 PM

The local B'ham stations are saying 11:55pm or midnight Friday is the analog cutoff.

I would wait until Saturday to rescan for new channel assignments...how much power is still up to the local station's hardware capability and the FCC permits they have...hopefully all will be ready to go online with their full allocated power.

Well, just like everything else with this transition, there's lots of confusion about this. Previously, the FCC said that analog stations could shut their analog off any time on June 12th, but couldn't bring their post transition digital signal up until 11:59:59 PM on June 12th. Then they decided to allow stations who shut their analog off before 11:59:59 PM to bring their post transition digital signal up before 11:59:59 PM on June 12th UNLESS it would interfere with another station's analog or pre-transition digital signal.

So, locally, I believe everyone except WSFA and WAKA are already operating their final post transition facility. I believe the WSFA plans to shut their analog off around 2:00 AM on June 12th, and bring their final post transition digital signal up shortly thereafter. Here at WAKA, we can not increase our power until WIAT in Birmingham shuts off their analog, which I believe is currently scheduled for 11:59:59 PM on June 12th.

Russ

WAKA-DT 8

06-11-09, 05:14 PM

rolltide1017

06-12-09, 01:03 AM

So, is WSFA the only station moving to a different channel (from 14 to 12)? I know all but WSFA have already gone digital but, aren't some still moving? Also, will all channels be at full power, baring any technical difficulties, by Saturday?

Basicly, could we get a brief list of the expected changes in this area so we know what to look for?

JimP

06-12-09, 02:39 AM

rolltide,

It was a few post back, but I think that all the digital frequencies are already where they will be post transition.

By Saturday, barring any problems the few that aren't already full power will be.

Glad to hear that Bama didn't loose any of their scholarships with the sports program.

47HO

06-12-09, 09:25 AM

WSFA has done something this morning. At 6am, I couldn't receive anything OTA (using UHF antenna) or via DISH local HD feed.

buckeye1

06-12-09, 09:32 AM

Does anyone know if WNCF is going to continue to broadcast on 32 and 22. Cannot get a good signal on 32 without sacrificing all other channels, but I can get in the mid 80s on 22.

Problem is Directv doesn't have a clue about 22-2 so my hr20s don't see it.

May not matter if I can't get 8 after they go full power. I may have to move everything around anyways.

rolltide1017

06-12-09, 09:56 AM

WSFA was coming through Dish Network feed around 7am but, it did cut in and out a few times.

Bama29

06-12-09, 10:11 AM

Scott Smith

06-12-09, 10:12 AM

Problem is Directv doesn't have a clue about 22-2 so my hr20s don't see it.

Same here. I have ran through the setup until the cows come home.
Hopefully when the dust settles after the weekend they will have their database straight.

Scott Smith

06-12-09, 10:15 AM

I was at a customers home this morning on a unrelated issue and noticed the WSFAHD sat feed on Dish was hit and miss.

rolltide1017

06-12-09, 03:51 PM

sarasdad

06-12-09, 04:00 PM

WAKA-DT 8

06-12-09, 04:29 PM

Please tell me WSFA is having some problems and is still not at full strength. I've always been able to pick them up when they were on 14, signal always in the mid 80s. Now that they've moved to 12, they are hit and miss. When it comes in the signal is only in the low to mid 60s. Everything else is coming in good. WNCF signal strength seems unchanged as does WAKA (which was expected based on WAKA-DT 8's post). WCOV seems stronger, in the 90s. It use to only be in the high 70s low 80s.

APTs signal remains really good, as does WBIH (I think thats the call sign). What is WFRZ, don't remember getting that before.

From all indications, they are transitioned. Remember, they are now high VHF
with lower power. In my office here at the big 8, they are very unstable (had no problems before with 14). Turning on a flourescent light or (believe it on not) activating a laptop in the same room with the antenna just kills it.
But high VHF is pretty noisy so not a big surprise. Will be interesting to see the first lightning come through...bet that won't be pretty.

WAKA-DT 8

06-12-09, 04:33 PM

Well, the digital signal from WSFA on the new frequencies using channel 12 are actually received over rabbit ears down here in Ozark. It does come and go. Signal is varying from 10 to 16. We could not get anything when it was on channel 14 with the indoor antenna.

Remember, 14 was directional to the north. Now 12 is omni.

OK everyone....say a prayer for tonight. WAKA goes from 50 kilowatts to 1 megawatt. Shoule be completed by 6am Saturday.

rolltide1017

06-12-09, 04:37 PM

Then I don't understand what why this is a good thing if high VHF is that unstable. How does this service anyone with acceptable levels in Montgomery? Why not stay on 14 (I know, government red tape)?

Well, thankfully DiSH has the HD locals now but, WSFAs weather sub channel was the best IMO.

gjvrieze

06-12-09, 04:40 PM

Remember, 14 was directional to the north. Now 12 is omni.

OK everyone....say a prayer for tonight. WAKA goes from 50 kilowatts to 1 megawatt. Shoule be completed by 6am Saturday.

Good luck with the boast, should make a HUGE difference for your station!

4bama

06-12-09, 05:37 PM

Remember, 14 was directional to the north. Now 12 is omni.

OK everyone....say a prayer for tonight. WAKA goes from 50 kilowatts to 1 megawatt. Shoule be completed by 6am Saturday.

I just rescanned my Dish 622 OTA for VHF-12 and the signal is banging in here at 100%.....I had it at 75% when the signal was on UHF-14...

Good job on the transition...hope Dish, DirecTv and the cable companies pick up the changes quickly...OTA is GREAT!!!

Scott Smith

06-12-09, 06:16 PM

OK everyone....say a prayer for tonight. WAKA goes from 50 kilowatts to 1 megawatt. Shoule be completed by 6am Saturday.
Good because it's unwatchable right now. Keeps dropping out.

rolltide1017

06-12-09, 06:28 PM

OK everyone....say a prayer for tonight. WAKA goes from 50 kilowatts to 1 megawatt. Shoule be completed by 6am Saturday.
Will this also increase WBMMs power (not the one on your sub channel but there main one on 22)?

EDIT - Ignore that, I just remembered that WBMM is tied to WNCF, not WAKA.

Also, any chance WSFA may be able to increase power at some point in the future?

SD4934

06-12-09, 06:32 PM

I am getting nada on WSFA. I've rescanned several times both before and after work. Not even a blip on my signal strenght meter. I have an outdoor UHF antenna and I thought I would be okay when they moved to high VHF, apparently not. All the other OTA channels are fine but WSFA is non existent.
Is this as good as we can expect from WSFA?

ViewHD

06-12-09, 06:33 PM

Please tell me WSFA is having some problems and is still not at full strength. I've always been able to pick them up when they were on 14, signal always in the mid 80s. Now that they've moved to 12, they are hit and miss. When it comes in the signal is only in the low to mid 60s. Everything else is coming in good. WNCF signal strength seems unchanged as does WAKA (which was expected based on WAKA-DT 8's post). WCOV seems stronger, in the 90s. It use to only be in the high 70s low 80s.

APTs signal remains really good, as does WBIH (I think thats the call sign). What is WFRZ, don't remember getting that before.

I live in Emeral Mountain (North East of Montgomery) and I too was always able to pick up WSFA-DT on channel 14; now I can't receive WSFA on channel 12. My temporary solution was to add DISH HD locals this afternoon in order to watch Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals tonight. I'll have to wait until the weather cools before going up in my attic to adjust my antenna to try and pick up WSFA on channel 12 without ruining the reception on all of the other locals (which all currently come in very strong).

JimP

06-12-09, 06:37 PM

ViewHD,

I'd wait till at least Saturday morning to be sure that our reception problem isn't based on their not having it at full power yet.

SD4934

06-12-09, 06:42 PM

I live in Emeral Mountain (North East of Montgomery) and I too was always able to pick up WSFA-DT on channel 14; now I can't receive WSFA on channel 12. My temporary solution was to add DISH HD locals this afternoon in order to watch Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals tonight. I'll have to wait until the weather cools before going up in my attic to adjust my antenna to try and pick up WSFA on channel 12 without ruining the reception on all of the other locals (which all currently come in very strong).

Like Jim said, hopefully things will be better tomorrow. I've tried adjusting my antenna but I could get no signal regardless of the antenna orientation.

rolltide1017

06-12-09, 07:29 PM

According to WAKA-DT 8, WSFA is at full power. They are now using a high VHF channel with a low power transmitter. A shame really, they are not servicing there viewing are too good with this setup.

I can get it to come in by turning my antenna some but, I loose 2 other channels when I do that. Since my OTA is for backup only, I'll just deal with not getting WSFA. All other channels are coming in fine:

WAKA at 72-74% (hopefully improve on this soon!)
WNCF / WBMM subchannel at 80%
WBMM (on 22) at 69%
WCOV at 96%
WAIQ at 82%

wirving

06-12-09, 08:33 PM

Just my $.02 worth....

I'm in Auburn, and am picking up WSFA-DT on 12 just fine - around 90-95% on my Dish 722. I've got a Winegard VHF antenna in the attic (a 1713, if I remember correctly); it's hooked to a CM 7777 pre-amp (along with a 91XG for UHF).

I suspect a lot of the folks who are having problems with 12, but were fine with 14, just have UHF-only antenna setups, many of which don't do well at all with high VHF.

If I get excellent reception here, especially with an attic-located antenna, then I think their signal is not too shabby.

-WIrving

rolltide1017

06-12-09, 08:54 PM

Well, that could be but, my antenna claimed to be a high VHF / UHF antenna so, I figured I would be able to pick it up. I have a cheapo rabbit ear antenna so I may buy a signal combiner and see if that can pick it up.

Bama29

06-12-09, 08:55 PM

Well I just had flash backs of my parents telling me to go move the tin foil on the rabbit ears. I was trying to get WSFA to lock and stay stable down here in Ozark moving the indoor antenna. Well the wife said why don't you try some tin foil. Of course I scoffed at her. What does a wife know about HDTV reception anyway:rolleyes: You guessed it. I grabbed some to prove her wrong and of course it raised the signal strength by 10 and locked the TV just fine. (been steady with no drop outs for over 45 minutes) She just gave me that look:o It is not pretty but it just goes to show you if you wait long enough all things come full circle.

wirving

06-12-09, 09:04 PM

brittcrowell

06-12-09, 09:10 PM

I'm north of Wetumpka, and I'm getting game 7 just fine, about a mile from Santuck in a hole, but my 35' tower and 4228 are working just fine. My DirecTV receiver was telling me 73-93 signal during the storm with 90 being the mean. Now after the storm its at 93-96%
Other channels
8 = 54-64%
12 = 93-96%
20 = 100%
26 = 74-83%
32 = 83-87%
on DirecTV H20 receiver

I've been waiting for the switch and the full power signals to see if I would need to get a pre amp since my TVs in the back two bedrooms dont get 8 that great. I'll give things another week to shake out before I got climbing up the tower to adjust the antenna.

Go flightless birds, Red Wings suck!

Britt

ViewHD

06-12-09, 09:12 PM

I'm using a Wineguard Squareshooter (powered version) in my attic and all channels except for WSFA come in strong. I guess I'll need to rig up a VHF antenna--just so I can get WSFA--and use a combiner to route the signal down the same coax that I'm using for my Squareshooter. Although I can get the Montgomery HD locals on Dish, I prefer OTA as I just lost the satellite signal due to a T-storm over Emerald Mountain :(

Figures... WSFA broadcasted for several years on 14, and now at the last minute switches channels and screws everything up. So much for allowing viewers to test and prepare before implementing the switch. This is poor planning on WSFA's part if you ask me. They will probably lose viewership because of this.

sarasdad

06-12-09, 09:47 PM

Grand Audio

06-13-09, 03:26 AM

Well, the digital signal from WSFA on the new frequencies using channel 12 are actually received over rabbit ears down here in Ozark. It does come and go. Signal is varying from 10 to 16. We could not get anything when it was on channel 14 with the indoor antenna.

Bama29 my signal went from 18 up to 74 on WSFA with the antenna I built 20' high. For some reason WCOV went up from 18 to 25 also.

blp

06-13-09, 05:10 AM

Well its the 13th and no signal from WJRM 48..But they are still on cable. How can they get away with that? If thats the case other low budget stations could just be carried on cable.

wirving

06-13-09, 07:01 AM

The WAKA guys must've gotten their work done last night. It's now coming in on 42 with a signal strength (on a Dish 722 receiver) in the upper 90s and very stable here in Auburn (91XG UHF antenna in the attic, CM 7777 pre-amp).

I think the dust is *finally* settling around here.:) My weakest Montgomery channel is now WNCF, and it seems to be in the 60s - 80s, depending on conditions.

-WIrving

sarasdad

06-13-09, 07:26 AM

JimP

06-13-09, 07:51 AM

In Jasmine Hills (Wetumpka sort of), its so weak that a channel scan on my Tivo S3 doesn't find it.

I thought I'd verify that the Channel Master 4228s go into vhs 12 since they're advertised as UHF. Apparantly, someone has tested it and it should cover digital 12 in the VHS band.

Has anyone verified that WSFA made it to full power? They might have had a problem with the flux capacitor.

buckeye1

06-13-09, 08:46 AM

WSFA seems better to me today. The signal is steady at 80. It was bouncing like crazy yesterday.

WAKA is only at 24. Looks like I am going to have to move the antenna around

SD4934

06-13-09, 09:55 AM

I'm getting a very strong signal from WAKA as well as my other OTA channels (exccept WSFA) from one antenna location. Still nada for WSFA. I do have another source for WSFA but I can't use it with my D* DVR. I'm using a long range UHF antenna that was supposed to be okay with high band VHF. Just wish Directv would go ahead and carry the local OTA channels. Never understood why D* will carry the locals in Dothan but not in Montgomery.
(Oh well, that's a discussion for another forum.)

Bama29

06-13-09, 10:01 AM

Bama29 my signal went from 18 up to 74 on WSFA with the antenna I built 20' high. For some reason WCOV went up from 18 to 25 also.

Good Stuff!

jns82

06-13-09, 10:08 AM

Yeah, if you're in Montgomery itself, I bet old-fashioned rabbit ears would work fine....maybe you could just hook those up temporarily to see how it does (before working on UHF/VHF combiner)?

I do kinda wish WSFA had elected to just stay on 14...then we'd all be fine with UHF-only instead of having to do VHF just for them.

Good luck!
WIrving

WIrving- I have a very similar situation as you, south Auburn, 1713+xg91 w/7777, but in a low part of landscape The digital transition has been good to us; I am getting similar strengths as you (>70%) from Montgomery 8, 12, 20, 22. What is your reception from Columbus (3 (actual 15), 9, 38)? I seem to be getting 3 (always a strong signal) and 9 from multipath and/or back of antenna, but 9 is relatively weak.

Compared to the analog days, our reception has markedly improved. As per advice of the AVS antenna forum, I went with the setup described above, and it has worked. As far as WSFA moving back to VHF- it seemed like this information was widely distributed (e.g. this forum, TV Fool, etc..). 9 out of Columbus went back to VHF as well, so I likely still would have tried a 1713 in combo. I guess I am still unclear if one of the goals of the transition was to get signals out of VHF, why were some stations allowed to go back?

wirving

06-13-09, 02:26 PM

What is your reception from Columbus (3 (actual 15), 9, 38)? I seem to be getting 3 (always a strong signal) and 9 from multipath and/or back of antenna, but 9 is relatively weak.

I don't even try/look for the Columbus stations; don't care about their local news, etc. I'm sure if we (here in Auburn) wanted to focus on them exclusively, we'd be fine - just point your 91XG and 1713 at them and there ya go. But, yeah, I could believe you'd get mixed/poor results from Columbus if you're aiming at Montgomery. I think you'd have to get pretty fancy to get both cities well - another pair of 91XG/1713s, some jointennas to cut out the multipath problems, etc. Way more than I'd want to mess with.

As far as WSFA moving back to VHF- it seemed like this information was widely distributed (e.g. this forum, TV Fool, etc..)

I agree. I think some people have just been hoping to get away with UHF antennas that claim to also "do" high VHF, but I never considered even trying that - being over 50 miles from the transmitters, I don't think we'd have a prayer.

I guess I am still unclear if one of the goals of the transition was to get signals out of VHF, why were some stations allowed to go back?

I'm not certain of all the history (I'm sure others here could comment more intelligently), but I think the idea was initially that VHF would be freed up by the DTV transition, then later on they decided they have to (for political reasons? not sure...) keep those frequencies for TV. The only frequencies actually being freed up are from channels 56 (or so) to 69, I think.

-WIrving

sarasdad

06-13-09, 03:20 PM

As of now getting solid picture from waka 8 signal only about half of other stations but solid. WHOOPIE!

rolltide1017

06-13-09, 03:26 PM

Good job WAKA and thanks. I'm getting a whopping steady 98% from you now (up from 74). WCOV is also in the mid 90s while WNCF is in the mid 70.

sarasdad

06-13-09, 05:36 PM

WAKA 8 off and on now

philly33flyers

06-13-09, 05:42 PM

Off Taylor Road here at the corner of Vaughn...was having no problems with WSFA up until the switch yesterday. But now it seems like it's the only station I can't pick up. Everything else got better:

WAKA = 73%
WNCF = 86%
WB = 86%
WSFA = no signal
WCOV = 100%

What i guess I'm questioning is that according to a couple websites it seems that WCOV and WSFA are trasmitting from the same tower? If so then why can I pick up WCOV at 100% and get nothing on WSFA? I've moved my antenna around many times and still can't get WSFA at a stable signal. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

sarasdad

06-13-09, 06:34 PM

have you rescanned for channel. Its now VHF also.

miss

06-13-09, 09:51 PM

Well, quite a few changes in the past few days. WAKA is now booming in here in East Montgomery...very strong and stable. WSFA is now very poor. There was an electrical storm near the house today and WSFA just froze each time we had lightning.
Then the sun came out and WSFA was there, but in and out. Turned on a window A/C unit and lost WSFA all together until I turned it off (took awhile to figure that was the cause). WNCF continues to come in weakly, and the level is all over the place. WCOV is still pretty solid (never could get it at all until a few months ago).
I'm using a UHF/VHF attic antenna from the analog days. Spent most of the morning trying to peak up WSFA, but can only get about half the level I had from them when they were on 14. Hooked up the old ears and it got even worse.
Let's see...as long as we have good weather and don't need the A/C...

sarasdad

06-14-09, 08:33 AM

Everything ok with switch, minor glitches. 8 still comes and goes. I am glad that Brighthouse finally added fox. I can get them all one way or another.:D:D:D:D:D No tv8 as of 9:00am

sluggo41

06-14-09, 12:54 PM

Getting WAKA very strong in Dalraida. I just have some cheap rabbit ears. WSFA 12 ain't happening. (had no problem with 14) However, I get a stronger signal from WCIQ channel 7 than WSFA no matter where I turn the antenna. Go figure.

WCOV's in and out.
Nothing from WBMM or WNCF.

WBIH (love those call letters) comes and goes

WAIQ and Frazer are the strongest.

Scott Smith

06-14-09, 02:00 PM

Here in Dalreda with my antenna 25 feet in the air.

WCOV 81%

WSFA 95%

WAKA 76%

WAIQ 82% (off the back side)

WBIH 68% and audio is awful

WNCF 65%

WFRZ 96%

WMCF 83%

JimP

06-14-09, 03:43 PM

Scott,

Which antennas did you say you using and are they amplified?

....and don't tell us its some kind of coathanger think you threw together. :)

cobolisdead

06-14-09, 03:50 PM

So I am up here in Prattville, and for some reason, I am not getting NBC 12, CBS 8, or ABC 32 anymore. I'm getting a lot of APT, the Fraizer channels, and Fox 20 and it's weather station, but nothing else. Anyone else having issues with them?

Scott Smith

06-14-09, 04:28 PM

Scott,

Which antennas did you say you using and are they amplified?

....and don't tell us its some kind of coathanger think you threw together. :)

http://bumracing.com/albums/album01/DSCN4715.sized.jpg

http://bumracing.com/albums/album01/DSCN4717.sized.jpg

And yes it has a line amp.

jtrippe

06-14-09, 05:33 PM

The switch has helped in my neck of the woods in Wetumpka. On a CM 4228 with 7777 pre-amp I get:

WSFA 98%
WCOV 100%
WAKA 76%
WFRZ 100%
WMCF 100%
WNCF 70%
WAIQ 78%
WBMM 80%

22 Channles in all. Early Saturday morning I got PBS channel 7 really good but haven't gotten in back.

I turned the antenna towards Birmingham yesterday morning and got Mid to upper 80s on The CW and My Net and also got 70-80% on the NBC, Fox and CBS. After 9:00 the signal strengths started to drop and I couldn't get a consistent signal. I was hoping to get the ION local there but couldn't so I turned back towards Montgomery. I also cannot get WBIH b/c of the direction I have to point the antenna. I might try for the Birminghma stations again since I have the locals in SD and HD from Dish.

Tom Servo

06-14-09, 08:03 PM

I noticed one of you said Frasier channels - can someone clue me on what all they're carrying and what subchannels they're on? I'd like to put that info on my website. :)

sarasdad

06-14-09, 11:02 PM

I noticed one of you said Frasier channels - can someone clue me on what all they're carrying and what subchannels they're on? I'd like to put that info on my website. :)http://www.frazerumc.org/live.html

Tom Servo

06-15-09, 06:18 AM

http://www.frazerumc.org/live.html
:confused:

It doesn't say anything about subchannels. Do they not operate any subchannels?

jtrippe

06-15-09, 08:42 AM

:confused:

It doesn't say anything about subchannels. Do they not operate any subchannels?

They have one subchannel. I beleive its called NRB Network.

cobolisdead

06-15-09, 09:25 AM

So how come I am not getting NBC 12, CBS 8, or ABC 32 anymore? I was getting them all fairly well before the cut off and I thought that they were going to get a stronger signal after the cut off?

Scott Smith

06-15-09, 10:23 AM

So how come I am not getting NBC 12, CBS 8, or ABC 32 anymore? I was getting them all fairly well before the cut off and I thought that they were going to get a stronger signal after the cut off?

What are you using for a tuner?

cobolisdead

06-15-09, 10:31 AM

Just whats built into my 42" Sharp Aquos HDTV and a set of Rabbit Ears. I checked online, and from my location, it says I should be able to get about 7 more channels with good signal strength. Ansd as I said, I was getting the channels prior to the cut off.

wirving

06-15-09, 11:26 AM

cobolisdead-

So what (if any) channels are you getting now?

"Rabbit ears" sounds like VHF-only; is it possible that what you were getting before the cutoff was the analog version (on VHF) of a lot of these stations...at least 8 and 12? All of the Montgomery digital locals were UHF until Friday, when WSFA went back down to VHF....

At the risk of asking the obvious: you've told the TV to re-scan since Friday/Saturday, right? (That'd be necessary to pick up WSFA-DT.)

-WIrving

cobolisdead

06-15-09, 11:38 AM

Well, it has the little ring to pick up UHF signals too.

I'm at work, so I can't be too specific, but I know I am getting Fox 20 as well as its weather channel, four or so APT channels(including the Create Channel), and four or so Christian Channels.

According to http://www.fcc.gov/mb/engineering/maps/:

I'm at 32.48609,-86.458025, and I should be getting the following with Moderate and Strong Signals:

WAIQ PBS 26-1
Strong Signal WBIH N/A 29-1
Strong Signal WAKA CBS 8-1
Strong Signal WMCF TBN 45-1
Strong Signal WCOV FOX 20-1
Strong Signal WNCF ABC 32-1
Moderate Signal WBMM CW 22-1
Moderate Signal WSFA NBC 12-1

wirving

06-15-09, 11:46 AM

Sorry - I was editing my previous post while you were in the process of replying.:)

Maybe WAKA is a problem b/c they appear to have been tweaking things since the cutover (maybe taking an amplifier or two out of the loop, putting them back in, etc.)? Maybe they were weak when you scanned??

WSFA should definitely be coming in if you've re-scanned, I would think...

In any case, if you haven't already done so, I'd re-scan (again).

-WIrving

cobolisdead

06-15-09, 11:57 AM

I re-scanned about 11 AM Sunday morning that got these results, but I'll give it another try tonight when I get home.

jtrippe

06-15-09, 12:27 PM

I rethought my setup since I get local SD and HD through Dish a turned my antenna towards Birmingham last night. I still get WCOV (70%), WSFA (88%), WAKA(72%), WFRZ(72%), WMCF(76%) and WBIH(72%). I don't get the CW or WNCF but those come from Dish. I do, however, get the My Net (68%) and CW (73%) IN HD from Birmingham. I also get Fox 6 (75%) and CBS 42(72%). So, I added two, new HD channels for free. I occassionally get the NBC in Birmingham and PBS channel 7. No ABC unless I turn back towards Montgomery.

I guess I'm in a good area in Wetumpka to get B'ham locals. I bet if I put my antenna outside I would get even better readings. I'm also considering adding another antenna with a join-tenna.

rolltide1017

06-15-09, 12:34 PM

Any chance I could pull in the CW from B'Ham in east Montgomery (Taylor Road area)? What is it's call sign and channel number? I doubt it would happen but, I may give it a go.

jtrippe

06-15-09, 02:45 PM

Any chance I could pull in the CW from B'Ham in east Montgomery (Taylor Road area)? What is it's call sign and channel number? I doubt it would happen but, I may give it a go.

Channel 21-1 Real and (28) virtual (WTTO). I think it would be very difficult in East Montgomery. You may need one of those yagi? (CM3671) antennas that have a 120 mile reach. I thinking about getting one of those and facing the CM 4228 back towards Montgomery. My parents have a CM 4228 in thier attic in East MGM. I'll mess with it this weekend and report what I can get in different directions. The signal for WTTO fluctuates from 85-90% in the early morning to 68% in the day and 72-75% at night but it rarely goes out. The MyNet is a little weaker and less consistent. Your best bet for MyNet is MGM or Columbus but neither are HD. The HD looks pretty good on CW. I wish I could get the ABC and ION in Birmingham.

Straximus

06-15-09, 04:22 PM

I was out of town this weekend, so missed out on most of the fun. On my cheesy little homebrew UHF Attic mount (still haven't gotten a proper pre-amp yet), I'm getting 8, 20, 26, 34, and 45 at 95-100% signal. 29 is tunable but unwatchable. 12 and 32 (not to mention 22 and 67) are nowhere to be found right now.

While I'm sure I could add some simple rabbit ears to get 12, and a pre-amp would likely fix my problems with 29, I doubt I'll ever pick up the others with this setup.

Still haven't gotten around to taking pictures of it, but might tonight. ;)

bamavaman

06-15-09, 05:32 PM

brittcrowell

06-15-09, 06:30 PM

WAKA-DT 8

06-15-09, 06:54 PM

I re-scanned about 11 AM Sunday morning that got these results, but I'll give it another try tonight when I get home.

You should have no issues with WAKA. Try to move your antenna slightly and rescan....move...rescan....repeat....

We are getting reports from all over the country about major issues
regarding VHF and digital. We made the decision years ago to NOT return to
VHF for many of the problems now being reported.

It would also help if your antenna is located on the south side of your house...even if it is inside. A window to the south helps too.

But the antenna has been greatly downplayed in this digital experiment...until this past weekend. Now everyone is seeing just how key it is. Here is a trade pub article from today:

Digital television may be a new technology, but a distinctly unmodern aspect of the transition is the antenna. It dates back 60 years and — in this age of pay television — had been relegated to a cultural artifact by many viewers.

Now, with on-air viewers facing bleak reality, the antenna problem has become very real. There’s no getting around it. To receive digital television signals for free, many viewers will need a good antenna capable of receiving channels 2 through 51.

Because of the digital cliff effect, it’s no longer good enough to create a makeshift antenna that can suffer through reception artifacts. With DTV, you’ll either get a signal, or nothing. In some cases, rabbit ears will work. However, more often than not, it will take a rooftop, rotor-controlled antenna that can be aimed at stations to get reliable coverage.

Because more stations moved to the UHF frequencies — channels 14 through 51 — antennas will need to be equipped to pick up those signals. It could be a bow tie, a loop or some other antenna technology. And, of course, this is in addition to the VHF channels residing on channels 2 through 13.

Most American TV viewers now receive signals via cable, so antennas are not necessary. But viewers who do not subscribe to pay television services and have analog television sets will need to have digital-to-analog converter boxes — and a good antenna — attached to their televisions in order to continue receiving over-the-air television programming.

If the viewer didn’t know that, they got a reality check over the last weekend.

A Quatrix outdoor antenna.
It should also be noted that converter boxes are not simple plug-and-play devices. The box has to scan or auto tune signals first and then every few weeks to pick up every available channel. This is necessary because some stations are moving to a different frequency as part of the transition.

Scanning of the converter boxes has been very confusing to many viewers and has resulted in the largest number of calls to various hotlines. The same procedure must be done with digital TV sets.

“The emphasis now is on scanning and rescanning converter boxes and telling consumers to adjust antennas,” said Julius Knapp, chief of the Office of Engineering Technology at the FCC, during a recent agency meeting about the transition.

Knapp said viewers should make sure they are using an antenna that can receive both UHF and VHF signals and check the FCC’s mapping tool at www.dtv.gov for signal coverage in their area. “We’re seeing a wide variation in the performance of different antennas,” he noted.

Every U.S. household can order up to two $40 coupons to offset the cost of converter boxes, which typically cost $50 to $80 each. The coupons take about 10 days to arrive. If you waited until the last minute, many discounted boxes are available from eBay or Craigslist.

Another dirty little secret about the DTV transition is that some viewers will completely lose a few channels — antenna or not. With analog signals, even viewers on the fringe of a station’s coverage area were able to receive an imperfect picture. Interference with the signals — tall trees or bad weather — would cause the screen to get noisier, but the picture would remain.

A new generation of indoor antennas might be enough to receive a DTV signal.
Digital signals, however, are different. They only extend about 40 miles from the station’s transmitting antenna and are more susceptible to multipath interference caused by tall trees or buildings. Even a small obstruction of the signal will cause a TV set’s picture to freeze, pixilate or disappear completely. For this reason, expect some familiar stations to disappear completely.

FCC acting chairman Michael Copps experienced this problem personally. When Copps upgraded his TV set for digital reception in February, he at first got an excellent picture. But now that the leaves have grown back on the trees surrounding his house, he is getting interference.

Of course, a good TV antenna costs money, which the government is not willing to subsidize. Also, professional installations are expensive (about $250), and many viewers are too old or lazy to do a rooftop installation themselves. And the cost couldn’t come at a worse time in this sour economy.

Cable and satellite providers know about this cost and are standing by, ready to offer basic TV service in many cases for as little as $10 a year. This lure is considerably cheaper than the antenna for “free” TV.

However, a recent survey sponsored by transmitter manufacturer Harris Broadcast states that of more than 1000 consumers queried, more than half said they are somewhat or very likely to switch to antennas to receive free, over-the-air HDTV signals, versus subscribing to cable or satellite subscriptions.

In addition, Antennas Direct, a provider of TV antennas for consumers, reported a 224 percent increase in sales for the first quarter of 2009.

More than 4.4 million TV antennas were sold in the United States in 2008, up 48 percent from the previous year, according to the Consumer Electronics Association.

The number of viewers who lost TV signals last week is not fully known and probably won’t be for a few more weeks. However, Nielsen predicted about 3.1 million homes — or 2.7 percent of U.S. households — were still not ready for the transition at the time of the analog shutdown.

We’ll soon find out.

Bama29

06-15-09, 07:07 PM

....Digital television may be a new technology, but a distinctly unmodern aspect of the transition is the antenna. It dates back 60 years and — in this age of pay television — had been relegated to a cultural artifact by many viewers.....

Very nice informative post! Thanks for taking the time:)

Straximus

06-16-09, 01:41 AM

You built your own UHF antenna?

Kewl.....got a picture of it or a link to the plans. Sounds interesting.

Sorry it took so long, but here it is:
http://mouselook.com/~straxus/pics/Ant.jpg

These (http://uhfhdtvantenna.blogspot.com/) are the plans I used. Looking at the pic I just took, I see the coax is pulling on the bottom bowtie. Looks like I need to head up there again.

It was a fun little project, and I'm a sucker for DIY projects. Maybe I'll attempt building an outdoor version for the roof. I'll have to make it attractive though, as my wife's first reaction upon seeing this one was, "That's NOT going on our roof!" :D

bdfox18doe

06-16-09, 07:22 AM

my wife's first reaction upon seeing this one was, "That's NOT going on our roof!" :D

I thought all wives say that about all antennas? :rolleyes: Now If I wanted to mount a flower pot on the roof, she'd go for that.:p

jtrippe

06-16-09, 08:39 AM

What type of antenna do you have and how high is it?

Mike

I have a CM 4228 with a 7777 pre-amp and its about six feet up in my attic. I have an amp between the wall outlet and my VIP 211.

Yesterday I took out a few splits that were not needed and improved things a little more. Probably gained me some DBs. By 9:00 at night my signal strength on the CW, Fox, CBS and MyNet in Birmingham was around 90. They were in the low to mid 70s this morining but get lower during the heat of the day. My tweaks also improved all of the the MGM stations and I now get WNCF ABC 32 and the CW 32-2 in the mid 60s and steady again. If I had a newer Dish receiver I would have even better readings as the 211 has an older tuner.

jtrippe

06-16-09, 08:43 AM

Humm I should try aiming my 4228 north and scanning, but I'd have climb up the tower and unbolt , aim / repete, and do it between thunderstorms. I'm kinda in a hole with a ridge to the north of me, so I'm skeptical it would do any good, but I'll have to try it some day soon.

Britt

You might get good results. My 4228 is in the attic so you should see a little better results than me. I'm in a very flat aread behind Wetumpka High School. I takes a lot of trial and error. If I move my antenna even half an inch I may lose some of the stations. It took about six hours to get my sweet spot. I recommend the early morning to get the best signal strengths.

JimP

06-16-09, 10:21 AM

jtrippe,

So you are getting WSFA with your 4228? What signal strength?

jtrippe

06-16-09, 10:46 AM

jtrippe,

So you are getting WSFA with your 4228? What signal strength?

I get WSFA at 88-90%. It's the strongest MGM local coming from the backside of the 4228.

cobolisdead

06-16-09, 12:25 PM

wirving

06-16-09, 03:21 PM

So I rescanned last night and got better results, but I'm still not able to lock in CBS 8 or NBC 12 with my Rabbit ears. I'm getting ABC 32 nice a clear now though.

So should I just look for a better antenna or what?

That'd be my advice. I would guess that being relatively close to the transmission towers (at least compared to me :) ) you could probably do alright with one of those $30 VHF/UHF combo jobs that you see at Lowe's and stuff. Or this Terk from amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MXZB2/ref=ox_ya_oh_product

for about $37.00. I have some family members in Mobile who are using that Terk with good results. It ain't much, but then again I doubt you need much, either.

If you need to "move up", a lot of people (including some in this forum) have great success with the ChannelMaster 4228, apparently even for WSFA on 12. Being out in the boonies, I went with separate UHF-only and VHF-only antennas and a pre-amp, but I doubt you'd need to do all that.

-WIrving

jtrippe

06-16-09, 03:44 PM

I talked to someone at MY NET 67 today. Now they claim that a lightning strike damaged thier digital tower. They also have no plans to offer a digital OTA signal either but will be back with dish and the cable providers soon. I thought they had to provide an OTA signal.

4bama

06-16-09, 05:52 PM

I probably missed any earlier posts on this subject, but does 12 still carry TheTube?...seems it used to be on 12.3...

Thanks... (BTW...12 is banging at 100% here in South Clay county, 12.1 & 12.2. Also at 100% are 8.1, 8.2, 8.3, 20.1 and 20.2.

26 is at 80% and new scan on 622 shows 26.1, 26.2 and 26.4 (no 26.3?).

32, 29 and 45 are all at 75%. I never rotor my antenna, just keep it in "the middle" of the transmit towers from here..this big Winegard and 7777 preamp are awesome...:)

Edit-information above: I noticed that my converter boxes (the "free from the Gov coupons") scanned channels differently than my Dish 622. So I deleted all channel entries from the 622 OTA table, saved it, then did another channel scan...

12.3 showed up and 26 now has 26.1, 26.2 and 26.3 (no 26.4). My 622 had kept the "old" frequency data for 12.3 and 26.4.

Lesson learned: The VIP622 does not delete all the information from an old scan when a new scan is performed...it only "adds" new channels. To ensure accurate channel data the user must delete all entries in the 622 OTA table before doing a new scan....
:o

baker60

06-17-09, 03:36 PM

4bama

06-17-09, 05:49 PM

All Alabama Public Television stations (ch 26) dropped one subchannel which was a SD duplicate of their HD signal(ch 26.1)

Yes, and I don't understand why any station now would use bandwidth to broadcast their digital signal on both an HD feed and a SD feed. All converter boxes I've reviewed will handle the bit rate of an HD feed and convert it to analog...and all digital-ready TV's do that, and we know the satellite TV providers (Dish & DirecTV) handle that, so that only leaves local cable companies...

Maybe some local cable companies still need a SD feed to convert to analog for rebroadcast on their cable system??? Most feeds from local TV stations are fed to the cable companies and Satellite providers via landline (optical) so does anyone know if any local stations still broadcast HD and SD signals on seperate subchannels?

Russ, and others, please chime in...;)

WAKA-DT 8

06-17-09, 06:36 PM

Yes, and I don't understand why any station now would use bandwidth to broadcast their digital signal on both an HD feed and a SD feed. All converter boxes I've reviewed will handle the bit rate of an HD feed and convert it to analog...and all digital-ready TV's do that, and we know the satellite TV providers (Dish & DirecTV) handle that, so that only leaves local cable companies...

Maybe some local cable companies still need a SD feed to convert to analog for rebroadcast on their cable system??? Most feeds from local TV stations are fed to the cable companies and Satellite providers via landline (optical) so does anyone know if any local stations still broadcast HD and SD signals on seperate subchannels?

Russ, and others, please chime in...;)

As a rule, no. I'm sure somewhere out there some station may send out an SD feed, but that would be rare. What we do here is fiber both a HD and SD
feed to the major cable systems. And please note that our channel 8.2 (which appears to be the same as 8.1) is really a virtual set-up requiring no extra bandwidth. The difference between 8.1 and 8.2 is in the audio. Sometimes it will be the same as 8.1. Sometimes it will be a Spanish version of 8.1. Sometimes it will be a descriptive video service of 8.1 (mainly for the blind). Sometimes it will be silent. 8.2 is so misunderstood......

bdfox18doe

06-17-09, 06:47 PM

The difference between 8.1 and 8.2 is in the audio. Sometimes it will be the same as 8.1. Sometimes it will be a Spanish version of 8.1. Sometimes it will be a descriptive video service of 8.1 (mainly for the blind). Sometimes it will be silent. 8.2 is so misunderstood......

Exact same for FOX & ABC..tho I doubt WCOV & WNCF passes it there..they (ABC,CBS,FOX) say "we REALLY want you to carry SAP".. but when you ask why there is no audio at times,which is not a good thing.. you get no response..:confused:

Trip in VA

06-17-09, 06:55 PM

Exact same for FOX & ABC..tho I doubt WCOV & WNCF passes it there..they (ABC,CBS,FOX) say "we REALLY want you to carry SAP".. but when you ask why there is no audio at times,which is not a good thing.. you get no response..:confused:

Doesn't the Fox splicer pass through SAP from the network?

- Trip

bdfox18doe

06-17-09, 07:05 PM

Doesn't the Fox splicer pass through SAP from the network?- Trip

Not automatically,it takes a special config that has to be requested. Plus,if the local affiliate doesn't have a second audio PID, when a local break is taken the receiver will drop back to the primary audio because the SAP PID drops out.. and thus stay on the primary audio PID when you return to network, thus requiring a viewer to keep turning SAP back on.

Tom Servo

06-18-09, 04:21 AM

As a rule, no. I'm sure somewhere out there some station may send out an SD feed, but that would be rare. What we do here is fiber both a HD and SD
feed to the major cable systems. And please note that our channel 8.2 (which appears to be the same as 8.1) is really a virtual set-up requiring no extra bandwidth. The difference between 8.1 and 8.2 is in the audio. Sometimes it will be the same as 8.1. Sometimes it will be a Spanish version of 8.1. Sometimes it will be a descriptive video service of 8.1 (mainly for the blind). Sometimes it will be silent. 8.2 is so misunderstood......
Why did you choose to go with a second virtual video channel with different audio instead of just adding an alternate audio channel to 8.1? Convenience?

WackyEngineer

06-18-09, 12:04 PM

Why did you choose to go with a second virtual video channel with different audio instead of just adding an alternate audio channel to 8.1? Convenience?

That decision was made before I started here. But I know it makes it easier to solve viewer audio issues...when someone calls and asks why there's no audio, spanish audio, or this guy describing the action in the background, it's easier to tell them to go to channel 8-1 than it is to get them to figure out where the button is on their remote that they accidentally hit to change the audio. Some remotes it's the AUDIO button, some it's the SAP button, some it's the MTS button...and those are just the ones I've personally run into, I'm sure there are others.

Russ

Scott Smith

06-22-09, 07:34 PM

I have 88 to 96% on WSFA but still get occasional drop outs.

WAKA-DT 8

06-23-09, 10:00 AM

I have 88 to 96% on WSFA but still get occasional drop outs.

Very typical of electrical noise in the high VHF band. I am noticing the same on 12 here at work with an outside antenna. Enough RF, but it's "dirty" RF.

JimP

06-23-09, 01:14 PM

I get WSFA at 88-90%. It's the strongest MGM local coming from the backside of the 4228.

I'm still not getting squat on mine.

I'd like to persue the part where you're getting it off of the backside of your antenna. Had you tried the front side and didn't get anything? What prompted you to try the backside?

Scott Smith

06-23-09, 02:04 PM

I'm not on the backside.
WSFA is at 176° from my house. (almost Due South)
WNCF and WAKA are almost due west in the 240 to 250 range.
I'm pointing around 200.

jtrippe

06-23-09, 02:10 PM

I'm still not getting squat on mine.

I'd like to persue the part where you're getting it off of the backside of your antenna. Had you tried the front side and didn't get anything? What prompted you to try the backside?

Jim:

I got 95-98% on WSFA and 100% on WCOV, WMCF and WFRZ on the front side of my antenna after the transition. The morning of June 13 I decided to give Birmingham a shot since I already have Montgomery locals through Dish. I was really just shooting for WUOA b/c its FCC coverage map included Wetumpka. Ironically, its the only one I can't get at all. Otherwise, I was amazed at the results. My results are not as good during the hot hours of the day but I'm not at home anyway. At night, morning and early evening I get WSFA at 88-90%, WNCF at 65% and rest at 70% or better on the back side of the 4228 and WTTO and MyNet at 95-100% on the front side. I also get 80% or better on Fox 6 and WIAT. NBC 13, PBS 7 and WDBB range from 60-75%. I've heard ABC 33 will be full power b/c of new equipment in September and I should get that. I took some splits out of my system. That improved the signal a little. Soon I will replace all of my older cables with quad shielded RGB6 and see if I get more gain.

Can anyone else get Birmingham stations from Elmore County? I tried my parents 4228 in East Montgomery and only got the MGM locals. WNCF and WAKA are hard to get at the same time but we found a sweet spot that got 75% on both at the same time.