Current H/DTV Channels Available in Albany/Schenectady/Troy-NY DMA:

Over The Air (OTA)-
6-1/6 WRGB-DT (CBS), Albany, NY 1080i
6-2/6 WRGB-DT (THIS), Albany, NY 480i
10-1/26 WTEN-DT (ABC), Albany, NY 720p
10-2/26 WTEN-DT (WTEN Weather), Albany, NY 480i
10-3/26 WTEN-DT (Retro TV), Albany, NY 480i
13-1/12 WNYT-DT (NBC), Albany, NY 1080i
13-2/12 WNYT-DT (NBC/WNYT Weather), Albany, NY 480i
13-3/12 WNYT-DT (Doppler Radar), Albany, NY 480i
17-1/34 WMHT-DT (PBS1), Albany, NY 1080i
17-2/34 WMHT-DT (PBS2), Albany, NY 480i
17-3/34 WMHT-DT (PBS3), Albany, NY 480i
19-1/36 WCDC-DT (ABC), N. Adams, MA 720p
19-2/36 WCDC-DT (WTEN Weather), N. Adams, MA 480i
23-1/7 WXXA-DT (FOX), Albany, NY 720p
23-2/7 WXXA-DT (VTV - Variety TV), Albany, NY 480i
45-1/43 WCWN-DT (CW), Albany, NY 1080i
45-2/43 WCWN-DT (Universal Sports Network), Albany, NY 480i
45-3/43 WCWN-DT (WRGB CBS6), Albany, NY 480i
51-1/13 WNYA-DT (MyTV4), Albany, NY 1080i
55-1/50 WYPX-DT (Ion), Amsterdam, NY 480i
55-2/50 WYPX-DT (Qubo), Amsterdam, NY 480i
55-3/50 WYPX-DT (Ion Life), Amsterdam, NY 480i
55-4/50 WYPX-DT (Worship), Amsterdam, NY 480i


Time Warner Digital Cable HD-
803 HD PPV (Special Events)
1747 Headline News HD
1748 MSNBC HD
1749 CNBC HD
1750 Fox News HD
1751 BBC America HD
1757 Fuse HD
1758 G4 HD
1759 Bravo HD
1760 Style HD
1761 IFC HD
1762 E! HD
1765 We HD
1770 Big 10 HD (must subscribe to Sports Tier)
1775 Encore E HD
1780 HBO Latino HD
1789 Big 10 On Demand (iCL39) (must subscribe to Sports Tier)
1800 HD PPV
1801 Showcase HD On Demand
1804 WNYA HD
1805 TBS HD
1806 WRGB-DT (CBS)
1808 WXXA-DT (FOX)
1810 WTEN-DT (ABC)
1811 WMHT-DT (PBS)
1812 HD PPV (same as 1800)
1813 WNYT-DT (NBC)
1815 WCWN-DT (WB)
1821 Home Shopping Network HD
1822 QVC HD
1823 Weather Channel HD
1824 Crime & Investigation HD
1825 Science Channel HD
1826 Biography HD
1827 TNT HD
1828 USA HD
1829 FX HD
1830 SyFy HD
1831 Toon Disney HD
1832 Cartoon Network HD
1833 ABC Family HD
1834 Disney Channel HD
1835 Animal Planet HD
1836 Discovery Channel HD
1837 Discovery HD Theater
1838 A&E HD
1839 History Channel HD
1840 MHD (MTV HD)
1841 HGTV HD
1842 Food Network HD
1843 Travel Channel HD
1844 TLC HD
1845 TV ONE HD
1846 CNN HD
1847 MSG HD
1849 MSG+ HD
1851 Fox Business News HD
1852 MGM HD (included in TWC's HD Tier at $3.95 per month)
1854 Smithsonian HD on Demand (included in TWC's HD Tier at $3.95 per month)
1855: Smithsonian HD (included in TWC's HD Tier at $3.95 per month)
1857: RFD-TV HD (included in TWC's HD Tier at $3.95 per month)
1858: MavTv HD (included in TWC's HD Tier at $3.95 per month)
1859 NY1 HD
1860 Universal HD (included in TWC's HD Tier at $3.95 per month)
1861 Hallmark Movie HD (included in TWC's HD Tier at $3.95 per month)
1862 AMC HD
1863 TCM HD
1864 Lifetime Movie Network HD
1865 Golf HD
1866 SportsNetNY HD
1867 YES HD
1868 MLB HD
1869 ESPN HD
1870 ESPN2 HD
1871 ESPNU HD
1872 ESPNEWS HD
1873 Versus HD
1874 Outdoor HD (must subscribe to Sports Tier)
1875 NHL HD (must subscribe to Sports Tier)
1876 National Geographic HD
1877 Speed HD (must subscribe to Sports Tier)
1878 CBS College Sports HD (must subscribe to Sports Tier)
1879 Tennis Channel HD (must subscribe to Sports Tier)
1880 HBO East HD
1881 HBO2 E HD
1882 HBO West HD
1883 Cinemax East HD
1884 Cinemax West HD
1885 Showtime HD
1886 Showtime West HD
1887 Showtime 2 HD
1888 TMC HD
1889 Showtime Showcase HD
1890 Starz HD
1891 Starz West HD
1892 Starz Comedy HD
1893 Starz Kids and Family HD
1894 Starz Edge HD
1895 Showtime Extreme HD
1909 Team HD
1929 MLB Extra Innings HD

Thanks for this update.

My situation is kind of bad, because I'm in the "Albany" area sort of, but I get Time Warner Cable service out of Binghampton. As far as I know, the only HD channels on the Binghampton digital system are HBO-HD and Shotime-HD. I'm dying for them to start picking up some locals (like ABC WTEN), but I don't know if they "can" since we don't get any Albany/Schenectady/Troy channels as our cable "locals". Most of my channels are out of Binghampton and Utica, and a couple out of Syracuse.

The interesting thing is that I'm probably close enough to receive the new Albany stations OTA, because I'm about 40 miles from the new transmitter, but I just don't know what kind of signal I'd get. I'm torn between investing in an OTA system, or just waiting to see what happens with my Time Warner provider.

If anyone has any suggestions, ideas, insight on the Binghampton area, etc. please post any news. THANKS!

While this is not in the Alb/Schen/Troy DMA, I believe WBNG in Binghamton is currently OTA Digital.

Yup - I just saw that about WBNG. Interesting - I wonder if the Binghampton Time Warner will pick it up, as we have the analog WBNG.

Anyway, not to get too off topic, does anyone know what kind of range/power the new Albany stations are going to have for OTA?

While it's one community tower, the transmitters will all be operated independently. So range will depend on each transmitters wattage, elevation and frequency (lower channel frequencies travel further at the same wattage.) Since the new tower is located relatively where most of the analog Alb/Schen/Troy DMA towers are now, it's probably a good rule of thumb to figure that if you get crisp OTA analog reception from the channels available in Albany now, then you will likely get the new Digital ones in the coming seasons.

MasterFX1: Great update. Thanks

bakntime: Check out http://www.100000watts.com/tv/ALB.html

You will find the transmitter wattage and elevation information for each station listed

Albany Schenectady Troy OTA Update:

The weather has finally warmed to the point that construction on the transmitter building for the community tower has officially resumed.

Update (4/9/03): So the warm weather ended apruptly and Winter is lingering, what does this mean for the tower site? It can't be good.

Albany Schenectady Troy OTA Update:

As of May 2, 2003, According to WRGB (CBS6) Chief Engineer Fred Lass, the foundations are complete. Block is currently being laid. Electrical Work has begun. The building is expected to be complete in August, then transmitter installation will begin. 2 V12 (1.25MW) Generators and NiMo transformers have been delivered to the region and are now awaiting final delivery and installation.

Hopeful estimates of a Mid-Summer launch of DTV transmission are extremely grim considering transmitter installation will not start until August.

MasterFX1,

Thanks for the update. Please keep us informed when you get new info.

May 22 2003
Breaking News For Albany Schenectady Troy NY:

WRGB CBS 6 anticipates full installation of its DTV transmitter to its existing analog tower by July 31, 2003. WRGB also expects to pass-through HDTV from CBS either at launch or within a few weeks thereafter to both its DTV transmitter and Time Warner Cable. When achieved, WRGB will be the first Alb/Schen/Troy station to OTA broadcast in HDTV.

The DTV Transmitter will later be moved to the Community Tower when construction is completed.

July 10 2003
DTV News for Albany Schenectady Troy

WRGB CBS 6 will be broadcasting in DTV (480i) from it's existing tower beginning 7/11/03 or 7/14/03. As of yet, WRGB cannot receive HDTV from the CBS network, so no OTA HDTV for this market yet.

In analog news... A new UPN affiliate, WNYA, is now broadcasting bars and tone on Channel 51 from Pittsfield, MA.

So this is good news...right?

OTA HDTV reception of WRGB CBS would have been great news, but I am sure they are doing their best and it does appear that progress is being made..

Any info about when the community tower will be completed?

Any info about "prospected" live dates for any of the other affliates in the capitol region?

Keep up the good work MasterFX1,

Hopefully this thread will recieve alot more attention in the near future :)

BreakStuff

July 15 2003
DTV News for Albany Schenectady Troy

WRGB-DT sign-on was delayed due to a heating issue. They expect to be live by 7/18/03. HDTV should be passed through by Mid-August.

I had an opportunity to run some tests of DTV reception in New Paltz and Saugerties this past June. WCDC-36 digital was receivable in both locations, which were nearly 80 miles and about 55 miles distant, respectively.

The locations were on the roof of a two-story factory building just outside New Paltz and on the rear deck of a house in Saugerties, right up against the Catskill Mountains (and not in a very good location, either).

Antenna was the modified Channel Master 4308 from

http://www.hdtvexpert.com/Pages/cm3022.html

along with a Channel Master Titan 2 #7775 UHF preamp.

WCDC-36 only encodes 480i now but is expected to move to 720p encoding this fall once the rest of the Albany-Schenectady DTVs are on-air, particularly WTEN.

Look for their DTV signal (which was at less than half power when I tested) as it gets out very well from Mt. Greylock in western Massachusetts.

Thanks dtvpete. I too can receive WCDC-DT from just north of the Catskills, at 2000 ft above sea level in Rensselaerville. (80+ Miles SW of Mt Greylock) However, the picture freezes or macro-blocks pretty often. (No signal level meter in my receiver) I am using a Radio Shack antenna on a rotor with a Radio Shack Line Amp/Splitter (That's it!)

I case you weren't aware, Time Warner Albany just announced the addition of Discovery HD to their lineup. It can be found on Ch. 1837. I haven't viewed it yet, but many people on this forum say it is a stunning example of HDTV.

Albany Time Warner and HDTV = lots of $$$ per month just for the basics.. :(

I'm looking foward to the local OTA HDTV broadcast's soon to come :)

Well WRGB-DT is on the air! Channel 39, but should be labeled 6-1 on your receiver. The transmitter is significantly lower on the tower than the analog transmitter and is a unidirectional antenna. I myself cannot receive it at home. Any one out there see it? How does it look?

Thanks for the update MFX1,

WRGB-DT is officially here!

480i picture quality looks good and appears to be an improvement compared to the WCDC ABC signal.. of course the WRGB tower is 20 miles closer to my location..

Signal strength fluctuates from 75% - 87% on MyHd card,the median seems to be around the 81% mark, however I have seen it as high as 100%.. I have noticed quite a bit of pixelization and/or audio dropouts even when the signal was locked at 81%... I'm sure things will get better with time..

An interesting note is that my signal stays the same regardless if my antenna is pointed directly at the tower or if it is off 15 degees to either side.. maybe this has something to do with the unidirectional antenna?

Hmmm...makes you wonder if WRGB is ready for HDTV :)

BTW..I'm am located in the city of Albany and my antenna is a Channel Master 4221..

Thanks BreakStuff, WRGB-DT is simulcasting their in-house signal, whereas WCDC-DT is upconverting the off-air signal of WTEN... Big difference!
By the way, WRGB receives network in digital, therefore, Primetime is "all-digital."
WRGB will, within a month, receive network in HDTV, retransmit in HDTV and digitally feed Time Warner. Amen.

If you cannot receive WRGB-DT now due to poor signal, It should get better in October when the transmitter is moved to its much taller location at the community tower and switches antennas.

BreakStuff- Does the signal breakup or drop out during complicated scenes? Or does it happen while watching mostly static images? It could be the compression that causes that (Not poor signal). WRGB-DT will upgrade its encoder within a few days, this may help.

BreakStuff- Does the signal breakup or drop out during complicated scenes? Or does it happen while watching mostly static images? It could be the compression that causes that (Not poor signal).

Seems to happen at both instances.. but for what its worth, I have noticed the breakup occur many times when the credits were being shown at the end of television shows. Also occurs during some commercials when alot of text is being displayed.. weird huh?..

Is there any chance of reception in the Wallkill/Pine Bush area???

Originally posted by B.Ellis
Is there any chance of reception in the Wallkill/Pine Bush area???

Not Really. Maybe if you have a really tall tower and some serious receive gear. But don't hold your breath.

Brrrrrrrrrrrrp. My dirtbike receives HD.




:D

When will the local cable (TWC?) add the HD networks for NBC & CBS? ABC is the only current HD offering on cable, correct?

Originally posted by justman
When will the local cable (TWC?) add the HD networks for NBC & CBS? ABC is the only current HD offering on cable, correct?

Time Warner will add local HD as soon as the affiliates make it available! WRGB (CBS) plans to pass network HD on later this month. As for NBC and FOX in HD on TWC, I would GUESS around October/November. I doubt that the WB, UPN or PAX will go to HD locally in the near future (just DTV).

TWC in Albany currently offers HBO-HD, SHO-HD, Discovery HD Theater and WTEN-DT (ABC).

How about for Saratoga NY. What type of antenna would you say I shopuld get. I think i need a vhf/uhf combo to receive channel 4 (fox) and 12 (nbc).

Let me know what you think.

Originally posted by NickHDTV
How about for Saratoga NY. What type of antenna would you say I shopuld get. I think i need a vhf/uhf combo to receive channel 4 (fox) and 12 (nbc).

Let me know what you think.

You will definately want a VHF/UHF... channels will jockey around the dial over the next two decades as analogs shut off. Ex: Channel 39(6-1) may move to channel 6 when the existing analog 6 shuts off.

Even with rabbit ears, If you can receive crystal clear analog OTA, then you should get DTV no problem. (You'll just have to wait 3 or 4 months for the stations to broadcast in high-power from the new tower to know for sure.)
A good antenna with no obstructions to the south west should be able to receive WRGB-DT now.

Being in the Saratoga region, I would highly recommend a rotor on your antenna so you can attempt to receive stations from Plattburgh/Burlington.

http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.asp

This link will help you choose an appropriate antenna as well as give you the right direction to aim your antenna.

For fun and games I thought I would install a set of Rat Shack rabbit ears to my "soon-to-be" HDTV setup..Normally the locals are quite fuzzy and just barely watchable,However the WRGB digital signal comes in very nicely when "locked".

Keep in mind I do live in the city of Albany and the broadcast tower is approx. 15 miles away..This might be some inspiring news for people in the Tri city area considering the use of an indoor antenna for HDTV.

My antenna is actually an amplified VHF/UHF omni-directional and is a bit touchy to the dtv signal and a better choice would probably be a direction UHF antenna such as a "Silver Sensor". My roof mounted Channel Master 4221 works well and might be overkill but it just makes me feel better knowing its there :)

And on another note,dropouts and pixelization of the WRGB digital signal have ceased, its been weeks since I have had so much as a stutter and all looks good here..

BreakStuff

So right now, we can only view wrgb in digital. Maybe this will give me time to experiment with radio shack rabbit ears or something a bit more.

If it works now for wrgb then i can assume it will work when the other uhF channles go "live" correct?

thanks for the info. btw-i thought they were all "live" at this point until this thread, thanks for the heads up!

Originally posted by NickHDTV
So right now, we can only view wrgb in digital.

Not quite, refer to the first post in this thread, which is updated regularly. You can view WRGB-DT from the helderbergs and WCDC-DT from N. Adams, MA. ...And with TWC-Digital and TWC's HD box you can see WTEN-DT.

Man is D* worth it right now then?

For our area would you say cable or sat is best for HD, for now and the next 12 months. (seeing subscription commitments are usually 12 months)

I can always switch to the other when my time is up.

Would i beable to pick up the one coming from Mass?

Comparing TWC Digital's HD to D*'s HD:

Both offer HBO-HD, SHO-HD and Discovery HD Theater plus a Special Events channel.
TWC also gives you WTEN-DT(ABC).
D* adds ESPN-HD, HDnet, HDnet Movies and a PPV channel.
KEEP IN MIND... D* will NOT be adding locals in HD. TWC will.
Choose what best fits your taste. If you are huge NFL fan this will be difficult. TWC can give you the MNF game in HD on ABC, but you'll need D* for the Sunday game on ESPN as well as Sunday Ticket. I would speculate that in the end TWC will have better stuff. Eventually they'll have all the locals in HD, plus they will feed national HD channels with higher data rates than satellite can, this means better Picture Quality. However, as for right now, I prefer D*'s offerings over TWC. Not to make this decision harder for you, but DISH Net is expected to unveil an HD tier soon that also includes HDnet and HDnet Movies.


Receiving WCDC-TV in Saratoga:

Should be no problem, again, use the link above to find which direction to point your antenna.

Thanks, maybe i will just get both twc and D*...NOT! I am on my way to pick up a $400 stb but man, not so sure it is worth it!!!

I just re-read one of your posts. You guess that nbc and fox may give local HD in Oct/Nov. If this is true i guess i might go with TWC. Are you sure about CBS coming out later this month.

Last question, from this quote, were you referring to TWC-Albany giving these locals in HD in near future, or just TWC in general?

MasterFX1,

What about this scenario, getting TWC and an OTA-antenna for when the locals start sending out their HD signals. TWC said they would increase their price if they took on more HD channles, i think $54 is too much as it is a month.

So what about getting an antenna and an stb to show them in HD.

Question, do they have STB's for just OTA-antennas, if so, what are some you would recommend, if they have dvi ports that would be a plus!

Thanks man!

NickHDTV,

First of all, TWC reps are uninformed about future programming until official Press Releases are made, otherwise, they are guessing. There has been no announcements concerning future HD except to say they are working on ESPN-HD.

WRGB-DT in HD may have to wait till early September, but it is definately coming soon.

Since TWC-Albany currently allows WTEN-DT to be on the lineup, they would come under heavy fire if they didn't add the other locals when they were made available.

Most HD-STB's include an ATSC tuner, which is why you can get OTA DTV with them. You may want to consider just an ATSC tuner, not an HD-STB. An ATSC tuner will only tune-in OTA signals (analog, DTV and HDTV) and runs a few hundred dollars less. In terms of a good model... I don't know... check out the DTV receivers in the hardware forums, I've always felt Zenith makes the best HD consumer gear. DON"T BUY A PANASONC STB/ATSC Tuner... THEY SUCK!

I myself use a Radio Shack rooftop antenna on a rotor. Subscribe to D* with HDTV tier and HBO-HD. So I am missing out on WTEN-DT for now and SHO-HD(because it's not worth another $10 to me), but the cost to me is also around $54/mo.

Like I said before, TWC-Albany will probably one day soon outshine D*'s offerings, but for me that day is months, if not a year or two, away.

Thanks for the info man, big help!

I think i'm going the digi route for now then. If I see our locals coming out more in HD, then i will do as you suggesated with the ATSC tuner and an OTA-A.

The $400+ up front for the HD-receiver is just a major road block right now.

Do the converter boxes that TWC offers have a DVI port? That would be a nice feature if so.

Originally posted by NickHDTV
Do the converter boxes that TWC offers have a DVI port?

Not sure... anyone else frequenting this thread know?

As of 08/20/03 TWC has the SA3250HD STB. It has a DVI port but, the SA website says it is reserved for future use. I think I have read (on this forum) that it does in fact work. I have not had a chance to verify this because TWC does not have DVI cables and Ciruit City has one for $100.00. Too much $$ for my needs right now. Hope this helps. The
Time Warner Rep. stated that the SA 8000HD will be available at the end of Sept.

Go to pacificcable.com. I just bought a dvi-D cable for 17.99 It was recommended within these forums. You can get any length, I needed a 2 meter.
The product number is DVISL-2 (the 2 represents 2 meters)

Here is the actual info below. Be sure it is DVI-D to DVI-D.

DVISL-2 2 Meter DVI-D Male To DVI-D Male Single Link Digital Cable $17.00 Qty:

Good news on the dvi port for the cable boxes. I am still considering going basic satellite until more digital channels come out locally.Then I may purchase an OTA-antenna with a stand alone stb.

Very, very confused man here.

DVI does not work! : (

NEW ANALOG STATION BROADCASTING...

Not digital news, but DMA-related, a new UPN affiliate is OTA on channel 51 from Pittsfield, MA and channel 15 from Albany. You can find it on Time Warner channel 4. There was no UPN affiliate doing OTA in this market for the last 4 years!

Any update on WRGB HD, ESPNHD on Time Warner or the community tower? Thanks

ALBANY SCHENECTADY TROY Update:
September 15, 2003

WRGB-DT anticipates passing network through at 1080i by the end of this week... hopefully providing the Cleveland @ San Francisco (in HDTV) game, Sunday, Sept 21 @ 4:15pm.

The Community Tower, specifically the building, became "weather tight" today and is close to finished. It is then up to each affiliate to set-up, test and operate their transmitters.

I received this from WRGB this morning.....

"Current plans call for passing HD through from CBS on 11/1 or as close as
possible to that date. We do not have an agreement with Time Warner at
this time, so I can't say much about that right now. I would like to have
that resolved as soon as possible. We will definitely be over the air on
Channel 39 (as we are now, at reduced power and in standard def)."

The new HD channel INHD is now on Time Warner Digital Cable.

MasterFX1

(never mind - I read back a little more and saw some answers...I'll leave the bottom anyway)

Are you using Over the Air as well as TWC?

I am looking at a new TV and am not sure if HDTV ready will be enough with TWC. Should I get a full HDTV so that I can use an antenna as well? I am in Guilderland and believe have TWC Albany.

A Rep from a certain AV store in Albany (don't think names are allowed here) seems to think that TWC will pick up all the networks.

Just fishing for ideas.

Joe - A long time lurker!

MasterFX,

Are you sure TWC is carrying INHD? They were showing a free preview on Ch. 1801 for the last week or two, but I noticed they pulled the plug on it a couple of days ago. I read elsewhere on this forum that TWC hasn’t inked a deal yet to carry INHD. Do you know otherwise?

Matt, I noticed this morning that they moved INHD up to 1860 or thereabouts (I'm at work so trying to remember). But, as a bonus, they're also feeding INHD2 one channel above INHD. I'm assuming they're keeping 1801 free for previews.

Originally posted by esposj

I am looking at a new TV and am not sure if HDTV ready will be enough with TWC. Should I get a full HDTV so that I can use an antenna as well? I am in Guilderland and believe have TWC Albany.

A Rep from a certain AV store in Albany (don't think names are allowed here) seems to think that TWC will pick up all the networks.


It is likely all network affiliates will be picked up in HDTV on TWC, however, it is NOT guaranteed. So... If money is no object, be safe and get a full HDTV - you could start watching CBS-HD before you could on TWC. But if you can wait and see.... you may not need it in a few months. You can always add a ATSC tuner later if TWC doesn't obtain all the networks. Sorry to be vague, but it's still too early to make the call on that.

Time Warner Cable Albany

Channel 1865 INHD
Channel 1866 INHD2

Affiliate Update:

According to Chief Engineer Rich Klein:
Channel 13-1 (12),WNYT-DT (NBC) expects to test OTA in early October and be up and running at full power by mid-October. Network will be passed through at 1080i. They currently have no agreement with TWC.

According to Chief Engineer Sarge Cathrall:
Channel 23-1 (4), WXXA-DT (FOX) has applied to the FCC for a channel re-assignment from 4 to 7. Until the FCC responds to the application WXXA-DT will have no estimate for sign-on. They do plan on broadcasting network in 720p. They also have no current agreement with TWC.

According to Chief Engineer Fred Lass:
Channel 6-1,2 (39), WRGB-DT/WNYA* (CBS/UPN) is passing CBS network through at 1080i and UPN at 480i. They also have no current agreement with TWC.

WRGB-DT in HDTV!!!
Channels 6-1, 6-2 (39)

It's here. (While still in low-power and using a uni-directional antenna) WRGB-DT will pass CBS through at 1080i with DD5.1 starting tonight, Friday, September 19, 2003. There will also be 1 college football game in HD this Sat and 1 NFL game in HD this Sun. ALL CBS NETWORK PROGRAMMING PROVIDED IN HD/DD5.1 WILL NOW BE PASSED THROUGH IN HD/DD5.1 ON WRGB-DT FROM NOW ON!

This is the Albany Schenectady Troy market's first official OTA HD channel.

BONUS ALL-DIGITAL UPN BROADCAST!
WNYA (UPN) is simulcast in 480i on Channel 6-2 (still 39)

I am living in an apartment in Troy. Unfortunatley, I am unable to use an external antenna. With an internal antenna and a preamp, I am able to get about 30% signal from CBS. Do you think that when they go full power my reception will break the 50% barrier so I can watch. Otherwise I will be looking for suggestions for an indoor antenna. (I currently use the Silver Sensor and a Radio Shack 15-1171 PreAmp).

WRGB-DT in HDTV!!!

Woot! : )


Hey Ultrix,

I think you will have no problem receiving the signal when it goes full power and I also think you might be able to currently increase the signal level by possibly moving the SS to a different location in the house? Is it pointed towards the WRGB tower? anyway, I wouldn't worry yet since I was receiving the signal at 95-100% last nite and t'nite I'm only at 81-87%

Hey MFX1,

Are you able to receive the HDTV signal from your location?

Originally posted by BreakStuff
Hey MFX1,
Are you able to receive the HDTV signal from your location?

Unfortunately, no. However I fully expect to receive WRGB-DT when it's moved to the Community Tower.

BTW, Ultrix:
It is more likely that your reception problem is from the unidirectional antenna being used by WRGB-DT temporarily. It is in the Helderbergs and aimed directly at Schenectady. This was done to achieve a "Grade A" signal in the city of Schenectady, which is WRGB's FCC Ciy of Origin. In doing so, WRGB has avoided the need for a FCC Deadline Extension on the transision to DTV. Recap: Signal will get better within 2 months when the transmitter is moved due to a better Transmitting Antenna, Higher Antenna Elevation and more Transmitter Wattage.

BreakStuff:
I wonder if your reduced signal strength is related to the broadcast now being in 1080i. Some ATSC tuners previously locked into WRGB-DT had to perform a new "Channel Search" after the signal was changed to 1080i. Can you see 6-2 UPN? How does it look? Remember WRGB is dividing its bandwidth to deliver both stations on the same frequency. (and UPN doesn't even provide HD yet, so don't ask.)

Its too bad you can't receive this signal yet MFX1, you been our leading source of information and now that it's here you cant even enjoy it. :(

Anyway, I can see the UPN signal on 6-2(WRGB-S1*) and I also have a 6-3(WRGB-S2*) that also broadcast's the same 1080i format found on 6-1(WRGB-HD*).. (* call signs displayed by MyHD card)

Signal strength still hangs around the 81-93% and picture quality is very pretty.. I just watched the Georgia vs LSU college football game broadcast in HDTV and it was absolutely unbelievable.. only slight pixelization (possibly hardware on my end) and 5.1 audio was as good as it gets coming from a sporting event.. very impressive on both video and audio.

http://home.nycap.rr.com/pdquickk/HDTV2.jpg

Note: Lost the 1080i signal as well as the 480i UPN signal just after 9pm and all WRGB DTV channels were broadcast WRGB 480i until the HDTV broadcast of "The District" shortly after 10 pm.. at that time UPN 480i returned as well as the 1080i signal until 11pm.. prolly just need time to get the bugs out I guess...

And just to mention.. I would like to give a big " Thank You" to those who are affliated and contributed to making HDTV in the Capitol District a reality, Your hard work doesn't go un-noticed... :) especially on my 92"x48" screen!

6-3 goes live with Instant Doppler Radar!

WRGB has its very own Instant Doppler Radar system. (Most stations use the National Weather Service Doppler) WRGB-DT has set channel 6-3 to be a continuous live feed of the Doppler Radar Imagery.

BTW, due to the very limited change from frame to frame with the Radar Imagery, 6-3 uses very little bandwidth. (Leaving 6-1 and 6-2 to the majority of the bandwidth) A very cool use of very little of the Data Stream.

This morning, I noticed TWC has channel 6's HD feed up on channel 1806, just a color bar test pattern but the channel is there!

Time Warner Cable has added WRGB 6 to its HDTV channel lineup on its website.

The center channel doesn't work whenever the sound is broadcast in 5.1 on TW Channel 1810. Anyone else aware of the problem?

Here's a thread I started.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2755695#post2755695

Originally posted by lufters
The center channel doesn't work whenever the sound is broadcast in 5.1 on TW Channel 1810. Anyone else aware of the problem?

Here's a thread I started.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2755695#post2755695

Fixed :cool:



Thanks, Will try to keep a better eye on the HD feed.
Have been focused on getting HD on the air which should happen in November.

Skeeter


John L. wrote:

I'm watching MNF....it's working correctly now...thanks

----- Original Message -----
From: Skeeter Lansing
To: jlworld@nycap.rr.com
Sent: Monday, October 06, 2003 12:31 PM
Subject: Re: Problem with 5.1 Surround
I may have found the problem. I think the Dolby Decoder had a power hit and reset to stereo.
I have to wait until ABC sends the 5.1 feed to reset to the correct mode.

Skeeter

"jlworld@nycap.rr.com" wrote:

Thanks for the response....
If I can remember...the last and everytime I saw the ABC test loop...the
center channel did work. It's just not working during their 5.1 broadcast
(Primetime Shows, MNF, ect.)

Original Message:
-----------------
From: Skeeter Lansing skeeter.lansing@wten.com
Date: Mon, 06 Oct 2003 11:39:06 -0400
To: jlworld@nycap.rr.com
Subject: Re: Problem with 5.1 Surround

Thanks,
I haven't noticed the problem, but then again
5.1 is only available when ABC provides it. I
will have my technical staff look into it
tonight or when ABC provides the HD test loop.
This points out to me that I need a better
monitoring situation for HD here in the station

Thanks
Skeeter

John L wrote:

> I'm not sure if your aware of this but..
> whenever you (ABC) broadcast in 5.1 on Time
> Warner Cable's Digital Channel 1810 the center
> channel is never working. I talked to Time
> Warner...they told me I should contact WTEN
> about this problem. But since the signal feed
> is coming from your sister station....should I
> contact them? I'm not the only person that's
> having this issue in our area.....check out
> the forum link below. Thanks, John LuftAlbany,
> NY 12205

John, well done!

So I just got my Mits 48413 today :)

I watched some discovery and full metal jacket in HDTV with a big grin on my face. My question is, when is 1806 going to be live? Is it live during primetime hours only and color barred the rest?

Can't wait for time warner to make deals with nbc and fox too.

Pretty much prime time.

I've kep't an eye on Ch. 1806 during primetime over the past week and I have seen nothing but test bars. I called Time Warner to check when the channel was scheduled to go live, but they had no information. Anybody else know anything about a live date for CBS on TW?

Originally posted by mattalb
Anybody else know anything about a live date for CBS on TW?

TWC and WRGB executives are "in talks" regarding retransmission rights of the digital signal(s). I am not at liberty to reveal any details at this time.

Originally posted by MasterFX1
TWC and WRGB executives are "in talks" regarding retransmission rights of the digital signal(s). I am not at liberty to reveal any details at this time.


We need to tell TWC and WRGB....CHOP CHOP!!!

What's there to talk about.....I'm sure these type of contracts are pretty standard right about now with TWC.

We're almost in the middle of the NFL Season...not to mention CBS has the Super Bowl this year.

We need to tell TWC and WRBB....CHOP CHOP!!!

Anyone have an email for the person best suited to receive our comments? I've sent emails to TWC in the past (using email addresses off their local website) and never received a reply.

The General Manager for WRGB is Tom Long. His e-mail address is tlong@wrgb.com.

Peter Taubkin is the VP of Government Relations and Public Affairs for Time Warner Cable in our region. His e-mail address is peter.taubkin@twcable.com.

Originally posted by MasterFX1
The General Manager for WRGB is Tom Long. His e-mail address is tlong@wrgb.com.

Peter Taubkin is the VP of Government Relations and Public Affairs for Time Warner Cable in our region. His e-mail address is peter.taubkin@twcable.com.

I e-mailed Tom Long on 9/15 about WRBG going digital and about the digital feed to TWC. This was about a week before Ch. 1806 appeared on TWC. Maybe I got them going a bit or could be just a coincidence.

Here's his response...

----- Original Message -----
From: "Tom Long" <tlong@wrgb.com>
To: "'John Luft'" <jlworld@nycap.rr.com>
Sent: Monday, September 15, 2003 9:51 AM
Subject: RE: Digital


> John, we are broadcasting a digital signal on Channel 39. We're at reduced
> power as we wait for the facility on the Helderbergs
> to be completed. However, if you have a digital set, you should be able to
> get it. It is digital, but not High Definition. When the new facility is
> finished, all local stations will be broadcasting digitally from the new
> location. We do not have an agreement with Time Warner as yet, and
> hopefully will have one by superbowl time. By the way, Channel 10 is not
> broadcasting digitally. Their satellite station in Pittsfield is digital,
> and since the programming is identical to WTEN, they feed it to
> Time-Warner.
>
> Tom Long
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: John Luft [SMTP:jlworld@nycap.rr.com]
> Sent: Sunday, September 14, 2003 11:22 PM
> To: tlong@wrgb.com
> Subject: Digital
>
> I was wondering when you will be going digital and when you would be
> feeding the signal to Time Warner Cable. Your FAQ on your web site
> says.....
>
> Q. I have heard that HDTV is coming. When will WRGB be digital?
> A. The FCC has mandated that WRGB be transmitting digitally by January,
> 2003. We expect to beat the FCC timetable.
>
>
> Do you have some idea when this may happen....CBS has the Super Bowl this
> year and would be great if you could at least get it up and running by
> then.
>
> The last I heard all the local stations were waiting for a tower to be
> finished....but it seems WTEN didn't wait and went directly
> to Time Warner Cable....Why wouldn't WRGB do this also?
>
> Thanks,
>
> John Luft
> Albany, NY 12205

Just to clear up some inaccuracies....

No local station is yet originating local HD programming.

WRGB-DT is currently passing High-Definition through on it's Over-The-Air Low-Power transmitter only. The broadcast is in High-Definition only when provided from CBS network and in DD5.1 too (When available).

WTEN-DT is not yet transmitting Over-The-Air, but is feeding Time Warner Cable. The signal is in High-Definition only when provided from ABC network and in DD5.1 too (When available). WCDC-DT is a sister station to WTEN and is transmitting an Over-The-Air 480i simulcast of WTEN(Analog).

WNYT-DT still hopes to be transmitting High-Definition at Full-Power Over-The-Air within weeks. Again, High Definition programming will only be available when provided from NBC.

WXXA-DT (FOX) is still in limbo.

I have no details yet concerning WEWB (WB) and WMHT (PBS).

The first post on this thread is updated regularly and is the only complete HD channel availability index for our region.

thanks again for the good info MasterFX. I am considering purchasing a hd card for my pc while waiting for all the cable stuff to pan out. Having CBS in hd would really be great.

Originally posted by lufters
Fixed :cool:



Thanks, Will try to keep a better eye on the HD feed.
Have been focused on getting HD on the air which should happen in November.

Skeeter


John Luft wrote:

I'm watching MNF....it's working correctly now...thanks

----- Original Message -----
From: Skeeter Lansing
To: jlworld@nycap.rr.com
Sent: Monday, October 06, 2003 12:31 PM
Subject: Re: Problem with 5.1 Surround
I may have found the problem. I think the Dolby Decoder had a power hit and reset to stereo.
I have to wait until ABC sends the 5.1 feed to reset to the correct mode.

Skeeter

"jlworld@nycap.rr.com" wrote:

Thanks for the response....
If I can remember...the last and everytime I saw the ABC test loop...the
center channel did work. It's just not working during their 5.1 broadcast
(Primetime Shows, MNF, ect.)

Original Message:
-----------------
From: Skeeter Lansing skeeter.lansing@wten.com
Date: Mon, 06 Oct 2003 11:39:06 -0400
To: jlworld@nycap.rr.com
Subject: Re: Problem with 5.1 Surround

Thanks,
I haven't noticed the problem, but then again
5.1 is only available when ABC provides it. I
will have my technical staff look into it
tonight or when ABC provides the HD test loop.
This points out to me that I need a better
monitoring situation for HD here in the station

Thanks
Skeeter

John Luft wrote:

> I'm not sure if your aware of this but..
> whenever you (ABC) broadcast in 5.1 on Time
> Warner Cable's Digital Channel 1810 the center
> channel is never working. I talked to Time
> Warner...they told me I should contact WTEN
> about this problem. But since the signal feed
> is coming from your sister station....should I
> contact them? I'm not the only person that's
> having this issue in our area.....check out
> the forum link below. Thanks, John LuftAlbany,
> NY 12205


The Center Channel isn't working again. :(

I just e-mailed Skeeter at WTEN.

Originally posted by lufters
The Center Channel isn't working again. :(

I just e-mailed Skeeter at WTEN.

It's back :)

MasterFX1,

Is there any word on TWC picking up ESPN-HD?

Originally posted by Ultrix
MasterFX1,

Is there any word on TWC picking up ESPN-HD?

I wouldn't hold your breath!:eek:

I believe the hold up with ESPN-HD on TWC is a national contract issue between TWC nationally and Disney (Who owns ESPN). I think there are threads about this in the HDTV/Programming forums.

That sucks, but Disney owns ABC and TWC is carring WTEN-HD, hmm.

For anyone else who is curious, the article about ESPN and TWC is here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=308235&perpage=20&highlight=disney%20twc&pagenumber=1)

After reading it, I am kinda glad that TWC hasn't picked up ESPN-HD yet. I agree with TWC that there shouldn't be additional charges for simulcasting SDTV shows in HDTV. If it was origonal content, I could see charging. I just wish the whole HDTV rollout would go a bit faster though.

WNYT-DT (NBC) 13-1 (12) is up and running at full power in 1080i! There is also a 13-2 transmitting at 480i, but is only broadcasting color bars.

I see it, and it looks great!

FYI- This is the Capital Regions first OTA HD Full-Power broadcaster. The other Community Tower partner stations should all (except for FOX/WXXA) be up and running within a month or two.

6-3 WRGB-DT Instant Doppler has been taken offline until bandwidth/pq improvements can be made.

Originally posted by Ultrix
That sucks, but Disney owns ABC and TWC is carring WTEN-HD, hmm.

WTEN in Albany is NOT owned by Disney. Disney owns the ABC network, not the local affiliate in Albany. Locally, WTEN and WCDC are owned by Young Broadcasting.

Welcome to the OTA HD club MasterFX1!

For what it is worth,

I am currently receiving 13-1/13-2 at 44% signal strength on MyHD card.. The WRGB signal was 95-100% a few days ago, but is now currently at 75%.. analog stations stay locked at 100%..

I was thinking that maybe last weeks high winds affected my antenna, however the antenna position has not changed.. The varying strength's may be an indication to the level of work being done on the community tower?..

Anyway it sure is a nice welcome having yet another local channel broadcasting HDTV..

After reading MasterFX1's news about WNYT in Albany, I took half a day vacation, rushed home and finished my antenna install. Not much to do, only needed to hook the coax to my receiver. Did a little channel scan and there it was. And it looks great! Can't wait for some HD on NBC tonight!

I'm located in the Hudson Valley (Kingston) about 50 miles from the tower, and get a signal of about 85%. Thought the Catskill Mtns. might be a problem, but I guess NOT. WNYT is VHF, let's just hope that when the UHF'ers come on-line I can get as strong a signal.....

Hiya stoder,

Sounds like you are getting excellent reception from your location..what type of HDTV decoder you are using? and have you been experiencing any audio or video drop-outs?

I have a Zenith SAT-520 with seperate VHF and UHF antenna's. The UHF is a CM 4248 and the VHF is an Anntennacraft HI-Band 7-13 channel only rig. Both are for fringe area's. On the roof of a 2 story house and about 10 feet above the peak. Also have a CM 7777 pre-amp. Maybe overkill, but the Anntennacraft is rock solid with no dropouts so far, even with the rainy weather tonight. I just hope the CM 4248 performs as well, time will tell, hopefully by the end of November CBS and ABC will start broadcasting. Not sure about WMHT (PBS).

I was raised in Kingston and I remember as a kid having an antenna with a rotor. We mostly pointed it south for the NYC stations and in bad weather towards CT for the stations out of Hartford and New Haven. I have no idea why my Dad never had us "rotate" north for the Albany stations. My Dad is long gone, so I guess the answer went with him. I tried the NYC digital stations but no go. Will try for the CT stations after the rain let's up.....

I must have been out of the loop, but Doug Sherman (WRGB's Sports Director) just said on-air that this Sunday's Jets game will be on Time Warner Cable channel 1806 in High Definition!

Since it's late Friday, I can't confirm if 1806 is now up, if it will only be up for the NFL game or if he was just plain wrong.

I don't get TWC, so fellow forum posters- tell me what you see.

Is anyone getting ABC over the air in Albany/Troy/Schenectady area? If so, is it channel 10? Thanks.

As at 10:15pm Fri Oct 24. 1806 on TWC is still showing color bars. We'll have to see if they make a debut on Sunday with the game.

Originally posted by zilber
Is anyone getting ABC over the air in Albany/Troy/Schenectady area? If so, is it channel 10? Thanks.

ABC is available over the air and digitally, however it is NOT high definition... yet. WCDC-DT on channel 36 (Your tuner will rename the channel 19-1) from N. Adams, MA. is a 480i up-converted simulcast of WTEN.

The first post on this thread is continually updated to provide the area's only comprehensive index of what H/DTV channels are available.

Originally posted by MasterFX1
I must have been out of the loop, but Doug Sherman (WRGB's Sports Director) just said on-air that this Sunday's Jets game will be on Time Warner Cable channel 1806 in High Definition!

Since it's late Friday, I can't confirm if 1806 is now up, if it will only be up for the NFL game or if he was just plain wrong.

I don't get TWC, so fellow forum posters- tell me what you see.

So much for the Jets game in HD....color test pattern still running. :mad:

I might be jumping the gun here, but..

If I were a TWC customer, I would definately consider the purchase of a seperate OTA HDTV tuner and an adequate antenna.. for a couple hundred bucks you can enjoy the best of both worlds and not miss out on any HD programming..

You could always sell the equipment after TWC aquires the HD feeds, selling should be easy since the demand will be greater..

I just found this on the WXXA website..

WXXA Digital

Status of WXXA-DT

1- WXXA-TV has applied to the FCC for a change of channel assignment from channel 4 to channel 7 for digital television broadcasting, and the station is currently awaiting the commissions decision on that request.

2- Once that decision has been made public, the station will apply for a construction permit to operate on the chosen channel. That process will take about four months after which construction can begin.

3- The approximate air date for WXXA-DT is March ’04.

4- The Fox network has announced that their format of choice for transmission has been changed to 720P which is an accepted HDTV format. WXXA-DT will be able to pass this HDTV signal on to its viewers.

Re: WXXA-DT

The website's estimate of March '04 launch supposes that they are granted the channel re-assignment by December '03. There are NO guarantees that the FCC will respond that quickly! At least the tower and building are complete, so that when they finally do get an FCC decision, bad weather won't stall them again.

If I were a TWC customer, I would definately consider the purchase of a seperate OTA HDTV tuner and an adequate antenna.. for a couple hundred bucks you can enjoy the best of both worlds and not miss out on any HD programming..

BreakStuff,
I am in exactly this position. I always assumed TWC would pick up the locals as soon as they went online, so I have never looked into OTA tuners. Do you have any recommendations for good tuners and antennas that won't break the bank?

Is anyone having a problem with getting an NBC digital signal OTA??? It's Monday night (October 27th). I am wondering if it's because it's raining outside, but I am getting CBS just fine. Thanks

No, I can't get WNYT (NBC) either. Must be off the air.......

Thats a good question mattalb...

I guess the cheapest way to purchase a tuner would be ebay, or you can purchase a new one at the Walmarts online store for a few bucks more.. I really don't know what tuner works best but theres alot of info in the HDTV hardware forum..

As for antenna's..

I did a little more experimenting with different antenna's to determine if a simple "dipole" antenna would receive the HD signal..the answer is no.. In fact I couldn't get a signal from any omni-directional indoor antenna that didn't have an internal amplifier,including an 8 foot VHF Hi/Lo scanner antenna I dragged into my living room. :p

Best bet for an antenna would be an outdoor mounted VHF/UHF combo, my antenna is an outdoor roof mounted non-amplified UHF directional and it does a good job considering the HD signals are VHF..

As long as you have a good line of site facing the Heldebergs and live fairly close I would believe those amplified VHF/UHF/HDTV antenna's(found at BB or CC) should work just fine.. In fact I bet that indoor UHF directional bow tie antenna (non-amplified) found at Radio Shack would work for some folks, but your mileage may vary depending on the circumstances..

oh...and WNYT OTA digital is offline tonite..

Thanks. It's too bad that they are offline... I got an indoor antenna at circuit city for $39. It has an amplifier built in. It receives everything that is available in the Albany area. It's an RCA ANT200. I hope this helps.

I emailed WNYT (NBC) asking them why they were off air on Monday, and this is what they emailed me back:

We developed a sudden Microwave path/equipment failure Monday afternoon which left us off the air with our digital transmitter. We will be trying to correct this problem Tuesday.

The color pattern is no longer up on TW 1806. Instead a message.........

Time Warner Program Notice

The digital broadcast of WRGB will be available
on channel 1806 as soon as the station is able to provide it to us.


What the heck is the hold up?!?!?!:mad:

WRGB-DT is actually physically connected to TWC, but is being blocked until an agreement can be hashed out. The details of this specific deal are confidential, but below are some hold-ups that have plagued affiliate/cable retransmission deals across the country.

1. Retransmission Fees (Will the cable company pay for local HD feeds?)
2. Multi-Casting (Will the cable company retransmit all sub channels?)
3. Data Stream integrity (Will the cable company attempt to compress the signal?)

These issues MIGHT NOT be the hold-up, but then again some or all of them could be. WNYT-DT does not have a retransmission deal with TWC either, however, no channel 1813 has popped up in the TWC guide yet.

So this was done by TWC as a way to direct emails and opinions on the situation towards WRGB?

That's my take at least.

Originally posted by esposj
So this was done by TWC as a way to direct emails and opinions on the situation towards WRGB?

That's my take at least.

That's my take as well.

Is the slate on 1806 still up?

Yes it is

I want to make sure I understand this all correctly. OTA I can get CBS and NBC in HD. I can't get ABC OTA right now but I can get it on TW Cable? I don't have HD right now but I am looking into Cable or DirecTV with an antenna. For now it looks like I would get more with DirecTV and antenna correct? Why is ABC not on OTA? Isn't it usually on OTA before cable?

I don't understand why TW lists CBS as on even when I called but it still isn't.

Originally posted by NY350Z
I want to make sure I understand this all correctly. OTA I can get CBS and NBC in HD. I can't get ABC OTA right now but I can get it on TW Cable? I don't have HD right now but I am looking into Cable or DirecTV with an antenna. For now it looks like I would get more with DirecTV and antenna correct? Why is ABC not on OTA? Isn't it usually on OTA before cable?


The ABC affiliate, WTEN, hopes to be broadcasting OTA-HD by the end of this month at the latest. You can also expect to see a PBS and WB affiliate go live OTA this month. WTEN is on TWC and not yet OTA becasue they wanted to be able to provide last year's SuperBowl in HD to TWC Digital Subscribers. The community tower and transmitter building (used for OTA) were not complete until October 2003. So the OTA's are just firing up now.

I myself do OTA and DirecTV, but if I was starting from scratch I would choose DISH network because I don't want NFL Sunday Ticket and DISH is less expensive and higher Picture Quality.

The cost of TW Digital service seems ludicrous to me considering the HD locals are to be offered FREE via OTA and that Satellite services are about half the monthly cost of TW Digital with mostly the same channels!!!

I would go with DirecTV because I want the Sunday Ticket, I have it now but just a regular box. Thanks for the answers to my questions.

If you call DirecTV, ask for the Customer Retention Department, and explain that you are interested in getting a HD receiver, but they are so expensive and you're thinking about other satellite or cable services, they will actually offer you a $200 rebate if you do buy one and re-commit to a new subscription contract.

*This only works if you are a current DirecTV subscriber in good standing.

Thanks MasterFX1. I have been a DirecTV custome for 6 years and I am in good standing. They have to like me, every year i get the Sunday Ticket and the NBA leauge pass. I will check into it.

I just need to decide on a TV. I only have room for about a 42". I was thinking LCD but I havent read much good stuff about them. Black levels are not good. I like the plasma but kind of expensive. I don't know.

Less expensive than plasma, just as bright and clear, immune to burn-in and half the physical depth of Rear Projection... the Samsung DLP series. Still more expensive than the rear-projections but definately your best bang for your buck.

Originally posted by NY350Z
Thanks MasterFX1. I have been a DirecTV custome for 6 years and I am in good standing. They have to like me, every year i get the Sunday Ticket and the NBA leauge pass. I will check into it.

I just need to decide on a TV. I only have room for about a 42". I was thinking LCD but I havent read much good stuff about them. Black levels are not good. I like the plasma but kind of expensive. I don't know.


Still think both are overpriced right now......Just my 2 cents....


http://www.flattvpeople.com/tutorials/lcd-vs-plasma.asp

http://www.plasmaplanet.com/lcd_vrs_plasma.htm

http://www.lcdtvbuyingguide.com.au/lcd_vs_plasma.php

http://www.projectorzone.com/lcdvsdlpwhic.html

While picking up my copy of "Nemo" at CC the other day, I decided to take a look around and see what was new..

Now CC usually seperates the LCD diplays from the plasma's so it's difficult to get a good visual comparison to judge between the two..

Yesterday they had displayed a 30" Sony XBR LCD placed underneath a 42" Sony Plasma and what I thought was a 42" Samsung Plasma.. now the Sony LCD display was much smaller than the larger plasma's, but the picture quality was much more detailed, bright vibrant colors, excellent blacks, overall that little LCD packs a big punch and really outshines the plasma's IMHO.. also packs a big punch in the wallet at $4999 for a 30" display..

BreakStuff,

I am in CC all the time. I have seen the 30" Sony. You are right it looks good but the price is ridiculous. The way that display is situated you have to be right on top of it, so for one you are too close to the 42 plasma. The LCD would look better due to the smaller size I would think. The 30" is good for a bedroom but way too much money.

http://www.samsung.com/Products/TV/ProjectionTV/TV_ProjectionTV_HLM437W.htm

I don't know who has them on display, but I swear they are the big new talk.

Originally posted by MasterFX1
http://www.samsung.com/Products/TV/ProjectionTV/TV_ProjectionTV_HLM437W.htm

I don't know who has them on display, but I swear they are the big new talk.

Tweeters (where I bought my Mits 65411) in Crossgates Commons...walking distance from CC..... have some DLP's on display.

Promising technology....but as some way to go yet.

Hippos at Stuyvesent plaza has a bunch of HD displays for sale as well. The nice thing about that store is almost all of them are set up in mini living rooms with TWC-HD being fed into them so you can really see the visual qualities of the displays. If anything, I would recommend taking a look around for visual comparisons.

TownTV in Rotterdam is also worth visiting and so is Oasis AV in the Peter Harris Plaza on Rt 7 in Colonie.

Buy Local. Don't give money to out of town corporations like BB, CC & Tweeters. Local retailers will match prices if you ask them to. Support the families in this area that have the balls to attempt to compete with the Big Box guys. You'll find that usually the sales people are not clueless high school or college kids.

>End Rant

Actually I am looking for a new television as well..

I already have a front projector for dvd's and those special HDTV sports/ specials etc, the size issue is taken care of here.....

I need a smaller display that will accomadate my digital needs for normal (primetime,stupid tv stuff) HD/SD broadcasts.

I been leaning towards this (http://www.circuitcity.com/detail.jsp?c=1&b=g&catoid=-8043&qp=0&bookmark=bookmark_12&oid=71060) unit.. from everything I have read, great picture for budget digital display.. widescreen direct views are another option if price matters..

Sears at Colonie Center deserves a shout.. calibrated displays, correct aspect ratio's and a good place to shop for the smaller budget.. Hippo's and Tweeters don't have the quantity, but they have quality.. that 53" Pioneer Elite at Hippo's is one of my favorites!! :)

a buddy of mine just purchased the monovision 32 inch that there is a powerbuy for here and loves it. and its 250 less then the one you linked

Originally posted by MasterFX1
Buy Local. Don't give money to out of town corporations like BB, CC & Tweeters. Local retailers will match prices if you ask them to. Support the families in this area that have the balls to attempt to compete with the Big Box guys. You'll find that usually the sales people are not clueless high school or college kids.

>End Rant

Buy local.....no thanks!!

When I started building my Home Theater System last year I did walk into Hippo's to take a look at Klipsch Reference Speakers I wanted....and they gave me a quote so high I walked out of there and never looked back.

All the local stores here (Tweeters, CC, Best Buy, etc.) are such rip offs. I bought every component of my home theater system online....saving close to 40%-50%. I bought my Mits 65411 from Tweeter only because I new somebody and with such a big item it's better to buy local (shipping cost, Service, etc.).

Here's a perfect example....


Yamaha RXZ1:

$2799.99 (Tweeters) $3023.98 (Total with 8% sales tax)
$1899.95 (Crazy Eddie) Not to mention tax free (NJ)....which more than covers shipping costs. Over a $1000 difference!!!

http://www.tweeter.com/product/index.jsp?productId=1163373&cp=1124285.1124337.1124380&fCat=1124380&fpricesort=priceDescending&filter=yes&fbrandid=92310&parentPage=family

http://store.yahoo.com/crazyeddieonline/yamrxnatsoun.html


The whole "authorized dealership" thing is a bunch of garbage. The manufactures warranty is still good and since I bought everything with a Platinum Credit Card the warranties are extended to twice the amount of time as the original...so if the manufactures warranty is for 1 year Parts and labor you get 2 years parts and labor.

I buy almost anything and everything online (since 1999) and never had a problem (I even bought all of my Klipsch speakers from Crazy Eddie and got them delivered via UPS). I'll do my research.....take a look at it in a store locally then go to a site such as...
http://shopping.yahoo.com/ put in the product name and model and see what comes up. Sort by price and you will be amazed! :D

I'm planning on doing some experimenting tomorrow with OTA HDTV reception (trying to decide if I can get a signal where I live) and I was wondering if WNYT is back broadcasting. Last I heard they had some microwave problem and I haven't seen a post indicating it was fixed.

Thanks

Originally posted by ken.martin
I was wondering if WNYT is back broadcasting. Last I heard they had some microwave problem and I haven't seen a post indicating it was fixed.

Thanks

Oh they're up and looking good! They were only down for a day.

I love hippos, put a lot of money through them over the years I've lived in the capital region (since starting RPI in 97). However, they are pretty much out of the crt rptv business and are down to special orders. I decided to go with Tweeter, becuase I could shop visually there. I don't like the idea about 'using' a store by shoopping there to go buy somewhere else. I also am happy with Tweeter's support as they are replacing my tv after the first month and have been very good to deal with.

Joe

I think we've hijacked this thread but I can't resist adding my 2 cents. I bought my Yammy RXV1400 at Tweeter's in September. A week later, it was on sale at 10% off. With trepidation (I'm a former Best Buy customer!) I went to Tweeter's to get the difference refunded. You know what? They did it, WITH a smile, WITHOUT hassles, and wished me a nice day!

Circuit City gets my business too these days for DVDs and CDs (when it's not Wal Mart). Best Buy can bite me! Check out www.bestbuysux.org

It looks like we (us subscribers) need to start harassing TWC. I e-mailed WNYT..........Looks like a complete stalemate!


-----Original Message-----
From: John Luft [mailto:jlworld@nycap.rr.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 05, 2003 9:36 PM
To: rklein@wnyt.com; sbaboulis@wnyt.com
Subject: Digital signal and Time Warner Cable

Hello,

I was wondering when you would have a deal in place with Time Warner Cable to feed your new digital signal to them.

If you do have a deal with them already.....when do you think we will see the new channel on TWC?

Thanks,

John Luft
Albany, NY


----- Original Message -----
From: Steve Baboulis
To: 'John Luft'
Cc: Laura Sousa
Sent: Friday, November 07, 2003 12:10 PM
Subject: RE: Digital signal and Time Warner Cable


Dear John,
Thank you for your e-mail. As you may know, our new digital signal is available over the air, as of mid-October. Unfortunately, there is currently no deal with Time-Warner for the retransmission of our digital signal on their cable system.
It is our expectation, as the provider of the signal, that the ENTIRE signal should be aired as we have sent it out. Time Warner, along with other cable providers, wishes to reserve the right to "modify" our signal, if they so choose. For instance, if WNYT broadcasts a full high-definition signal, then the cable companies say they'd have no problem sending out the full signal to all of their subscribers. However, if WNYT provided a split digital signal, perhaps including a 24 hour news or weather service, a home shopping channel, etc., then the cable operators insist on reserving the right to "strip out" any channels they wish (perhaps the ones they view as competitors to their own services). There are some other issues, but this is the main area of disagreement.
It is my hope that as more consumers buy digital tv's, they will demand of their cable operators full carriage of the local broadcasters' ENTIRE digital signal. Until then, our signal will be available by using an over-the-air antenna.
Thank you for taking the time to write.

Steve Baboulis-VP/GM
WNYT-TV

I was surprised to Steve Baboulis reveal that much about their issues in hammering out a retransmission agreement. This is obviously one of three major issues I outlined in a previous post.

Other local stations, however, are more concerned with the fact that TWC charges additional fees for the digital service that would allow you see the HD signals. If TWC is going to require their subs to upgrade to Digital for extra money, then the local stations that provide content to this premium service should also be compensated. In other words, If they can make money on it, why shouldn't the affiliates.

I think cable needs to buck up. They need to cave on all 3 of the issues. If the affiliates hold-out until they are all free OTA in HD, you will see people migrate to the Sat/OTA combo in droves. I believe many people become cable subscribers mostly for good local reception! A moot point in HD once your OTA antenna is set. Plus it would cost you way less per month.

Not to prolong this, but...

Please don't consider Hippo's the poster child for ALL locally owned AV retailers. I have never been happy with them either.

Of course you can get the best price over the internet. Many people consider other aspects aside from price. The locally owned store where I bought my components has always thrown in (free) high quality cables I would need to hook things up that day. They simply unplugged them from floor demos and chucked them in my bag! As well as provided me with some technical assistance weeks after the purchase (without waiting on hold for an hour or two.) Also, as many of us have experienced, unless you already know exactly what you are looking for, you can count on getting a lot of mis-information from the sales kids at these big chain stores. I've already lost count of all the "Whoppers" I've been told at Tweeters, BB, CC and yes... Hippos.

Nice website, jpeter1093, never seen such a legally protectd bash site before.

a buddy of mine just purchased the monovision 32 inch that there is a powerbuy for here and loves it. and its 250 less then the one you linked

Thanks Ken..

I have been considering that unit as well, It seems owners either "love it"or "hate it".. I'll have to do a little more research on the Monovision and see if it's for me.. I won't be making the purchase until the end of the holiday season so I'll have plenty of time to read up on it..

I'm in the same boat too BreakStuff
will not m\be in the market till 04

I just had an interesting conversation with a TWC sales rep that may relate to some of the previous posts on TWC carrying the locals. I called up and explained that I wanted the "broadcast basic" HD channels for three TVs and what would it cost. I expected them to say that I would have to get all the digital cable channels etc, and pay significant $$$ at which point I'd go out and buy an antenna and OTA STB instead. After some time on their end they came back and said it would be less than $30 (I also have road runner but I'm assuming that isn't related). This includes the basic HDTV channels but no HBO HD or Showtime HD. Considering that includes the rental of three HD STBs I thought the price was reasonable. I'm going to pick up the STBs tomorrow night so I'll see if it all works out.

Ken, definately let us know how you make out on a couple of fronts. What channels are included in "broadcast basic" HD? I didn't realize you could get the "broadcast basic" package with the high def channels without digital cable. Secondly, did they lead you to belive that you would get channels 6, 10, and 13 in HD with that package, since; I'm sure you know, they are only presently retransmitting channel 10.

Lastly, will that package include Discovery HD, and INHD1 and INHD2?

A very interesting development if true. All good questions, jpeter1093. What standard definition channels, if any, does that include?

I'll find out more hopefully tonight when I connect the STBs but the rep said it would include the locals that TWC is carrying plus Discovery HD, INHD, and INHD2. They said it would not include the standard def digital channels. I'm hoping that there will not be too many hiccups (beyond what is currently going on) with TWC carrying the other locals in HD when they go live OTA.

Originally posted by ken.martin
I'll find out more hopefully tonight when I connect the STBs but the rep said it would include the locals that TWC is carrying plus Discovery HD, INHD, and INHD2. They said it would not include the standard def digital channels. I'm hoping that there will not be too many hiccups (beyond what is currently going on) with TWC carrying the other locals in HD when they go live OTA.


How did you make out on this?

I picked up the three HD STBs and all three seem to work fine without any issues. As a nice bonus the SA3250HD STB seems to have optical audio outputs where most the specs I've seen indicated it didn't. Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on your point of view) my channel selection is not what I had expected. Specifically I am receiving more channels than I expected. I receive the broadcast basic analog channels and the basic HDTV channels (which I expected) I am also receiving the premium HDTV channels (HBO/Showtime) plus I think most of the digital channels (For example Disney west comes in but not Disney east, maybe one is analog and the other digital???). I'm pretty sure that I am not receiving any of the premium analog channels (such as scifi, comedy central, etc) So I'm not sure what the deal is. It could be a temporary program glitch or it could simply be that they don't have a category for broadcast basic HDTV so they stuffed me into the closest thing they currently had. I am also curious if the cable TV portion of my bill will be under $30 as promised. But so far I'm certainly satisfied and wowed by TWCs responsiveness ...

Ken,

Is CBS on yet on TW or is ABC still the only local that is on?

Still only ABC. Channel 1806 still shows the waiting for the network to provide the signal message.

Hmmm, well after quiet a bit of talking to customer service reps at TWC I think I know a bit more about the situation for broadcast basic HDTV. After being told on two different occasions (and doing all the work to hookup three STBs to three AV setups) that I would receive DiscoveryHD, INHD, and INHD2, I have now been told that they are not included with the broadcast basic package. Currently the only channel available is 1810.

They did tell me that the agreement with WRGB has been signed and they are just waiting for the signal. When I pressed this point with the reps supervisor he backed off and indicated that he wasn't sure if the agreement has been signed or not. My guess is that the agreement has not been signed but they are telling people it has... I'm curious if anyone else has more solid information.

So at the end of the day 1810 is the only channel available with broadcast basic and hdtv. I've gone from being shocked at TWC's helpfulness to a bit upset with the incorrect information I was repeatedly provided (to give them credit at least they did make an effort, I'm still surprised they have a broadcast basic HDTV option at all). Given that I can get more local HDTV over the air that with TWC I'll ditch TWC and pick up a HD Tuner. It is a shame they do not include any extra HD with the broadcast basic. With some minimal added value I can see broadcast-basic people like me sticking with cable instead of going to OTA (or OTA + sat)

Also a quick update on WTEN OTA. They indicate they will be broadcasting OTA early December. Still awaiting FCC approval. Equipment installation is 95% completed.

Any news on how WRGB is doing on their move to the new tower. I know they are broadcasting, but I am about 50 miles away in Kingston and not able to receive their low power signal......

Originally posted by stoder
Any news on how WRGB is doing on their move to the new tower. I know they are broadcasting, but I am about 50 miles away in Kingston and not able to receive their low power signal......

I'm in the same boat regarding pulling in the signal. I have exclusive knowledge that WRGB's crack engineering team is planning on making the switch on December 3rd. However, this is NOT an official press release or a definate by any means. They are simply slated to make the change on that date as it stands now. That could change for any number of reasons. Do not buy anything or host an HDTV dinner party based on this post.

This explains some things....Looks like I'll be dropping cable soon and going with Direct TV. I had it with TWC!!

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=327373

Originally posted by ken.martin
They did tell me that the agreement with WRGB has been signed and they are just waiting for the signal. When I pressed this point with the reps supervisor he backed off and indicated that he wasn't sure if the agreement has been signed or not. My guess is that the agreement has not been signed but they are telling people it has... I'm curious if anyone else has more solid information.

That sucks, cause the Victoria's Secret fashion show is scheduled to be on CBS tomorrow in HD, and with the WRGB's low power transmitter I can't get OTA, and with TWC still working on an agreement, it doesn't look like I'll be able to watch :mad: .

Hello

New to all the HDTV hardware, although I have purchased a 34xbr800 and enjoy it. Right now I am using TWC for all HDTV programming.

Was hoping some of you guys could help me out with hardware info if I was to switch to DirecTV.

I am located in Perth NY. (5 miles north of Amsterdam) . Any advice on Receiver, antenna, amp that I should purchase? Or will it be possible at all to receive any of the Albany OTA channels?

Right now I am considering the HD300 from Sony.

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks

Joe

Originally posted by Ultrix
That sucks, cause the Victoria's Secret fashion show is scheduled to be on CBS tomorrow in HD, and with the WRGB's low power transmitter I can't get OTA, and with TWC still working on an agreement, it doesn't look like I'll be able to watch :mad: .

I was going to go out and buy an HD tuner and indoor powered antenna for my Mits 65411 today since I'm almost ready to tell TWC to go F*** themselves. Now I have to go spend $400 when I shouldn't need to and have to worry about getting most of my money back (selling it on E-Bay) when I go with Direct TV early next year.

:mad:

There are a lot of shows I want to get in HD thru CBS...The Victoria Secrets show tonight (CBS), NFL Miami at Dallas on Thanksgiving (CBS), NFL Playoffs and The Super Bowl (CBS)....to mention a few

Does anyone know if I can pick up WRGB-DT OTA in 12205 zip code area with the current low transmission??

Originally posted by lufters
Does anyone know if I can pick up WRGB-DT OTA in 12205 zip code area with the current low transmission??

With a rooftop-antenna correctly aimed it should be no problem.


Originally posted by joeorp
I am located in Perth NY. (5 miles north of Amsterdam) . Any advice on Receiver, antenna, amp that I should purchase? Or will it be possible at all to receive any of the Albany OTA channels?

Right now I am considering the HD300 from Sony.

Rooftop or towertop uni-directional antenna with rotor and line amp would be a safe choice. You should be able to receive the Full-Power network affiliates.

The SONY HD300&200, the ZENITH SAT520 and the LG 3200A are the most highly recommended. I just did all the research and bought a SAT520 on eBay to replace my old PANASONIC TU-HDS20 (Which sucks.)

The Dish Network requires the use of 2 seperate dishes if you plan on receiving HD programming, one dish for standard broadcast and the other for HD..

Is this also true for Directv HD?

Originally posted by BreakStuff
The Dish Network requires the use of 2 separate dishes if you plan on receiving HD programming, one dish for standard broadcast and the other for HD..

Is this also true for Directv HD?

DirecTV uses an elliptical 3 LNB dish for HD setups that communicates with 3 orbital locations simultaneously. DirecTV has more sports in HD with NFL: ST. There are many choices for a set top box.

DISH will be switching to their "Superdish" plan in a few months or less. This will eliminate the need for more than one satellite on your roof. DISH's HD is of higher picture quality and their monthly services cost less.

DISH has Albany locals now in SD, DirecTV will have Albany locals in SD very soon. Neither will have locals in HD for a very very long time... if ever. You will still want a rooftop antenna for the locals in HD.

Thank you MasterFX1

You say that the DISH Network is better quality and lower priced...Is it that much of a difference?

Thanks again

joe

Originally posted by joeorp
You say that the DISH Network is better quality and lower priced...Is it that much of a difference?

Price: Depending on how many packages you get you'll save $5-$10 bucks a month.

PQ: Depends on how big your tv is, in my opinion. The bigger the screen, the more of difference you would notice. If your screen is 30+ inches... you can definately see a difference during complicated shots and during high effect scenes in movies like Star Wars II or LOTR: The Two Towers. The problem is that DirecTV compresses their HD channel's bandwidth too much. I put up with them for now because the hardware is too expensive to keep switching back and forth.

Originally posted by MasterFX1
Price: Depending on how many packages you get you'll save $5-$10 bucks a month.

PQ: Depends on how big your tv is, in my opinion. The bigger the screen, the more of difference you would notice. If your screen is 30+ inches... you can definitely see a difference during complicated shots and during high effect scenes in movies like Star Wars II or LOTR: The Two Towers. The problem is that DirecTV compresses their HD channel's bandwidth too much. I put up with them for now because the hardware is too expensive to keep switching back and forth.

According to what I've read, DirectTV's quality should be improving dramatically soon....that's one reason why (among others :mad: ) I'm thinking about it for early next year but I want to see how this pans out first.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=321636

Originally posted by lufters
According to what I've read, DirectTV's quality should be improving dramatically soon

DirecTV's ability to offer HD programming from the Spaceway satellites would not be available for public consumption for about a year at the soonest. In this day and age, everything can and will change in a year. I would not "Bank" on this yet at all. There are many technical issues that D* will have to overcome to make the possibilities discussed in the thread you linked to a reality. DISH's superdish plan was supposed to happen months ago and be big seller for this Holiday season, but it hasn't yet. Don't make decisions on long term speculation... D* will be changing ownership very soon and who knows what the new boss has in mind.

Anyone have a contact/email at TW that we can call or send email to? Looks like WRGB and WNYT are in the same boat. Apparently TW needs to hear from a lot of their users to modify their agreement.

Originally posted by lufters
It looks like we (us subscribers) need to start harassing TWC. I e-mailed WNYT..........Looks like a complete stalemate!


-----Original Message-----
From: John Luft [mailto:jlworld@nycap.rr.com]
Sent: Wednesday, November 05, 2003 9:36 PM
To: rklein@wnyt.com; sbaboulis@wnyt.com
Subject: Digital signal and Time Warner Cable

Hello,

I was wondering when you would have a deal in place with Time Warner Cable to feed your new digital signal to them.

If you do have a deal with them already.....when do you think we will see the new channel on TWC?

Thanks,

John Luft
Albany, NY


----- Original Message -----
From: Steve Baboulis
To: 'John Luft'
Cc: Laura Sousa
Sent: Friday, November 07, 2003 12:10 PM
Subject: RE: Digital signal and Time Warner Cable


Dear John,
Thank you for your e-mail. As you may know, our new digital signal is available over the air, as of mid-October. Unfortunately, there is currently no deal with Time-Warner for the retransmission of our digital signal on their cable system.
It is our expectation, as the provider of the signal, that the ENTIRE signal should be aired as we have sent it out. Time Warner, along with other cable providers, wishes to reserve the right to "modify" our signal, if they so choose. For instance, if WNYT broadcasts a full high-definition signal, then the cable companies say they'd have no problem sending out the full signal to all of their subscribers. However, if WNYT provided a split digital signal, perhaps including a 24 hour news or weather service, a home shopping channel, etc., then the cable operators insist on reserving the right to "strip out" any channels they wish (perhaps the ones they view as competitors to their own services). There are some other issues, but this is the main area of disagreement.
It is my hope that as more consumers buy digital tv's, they will demand of their cable operators full carriage of the local broadcasters' ENTIRE digital signal. Until then, our signal will be available by using an over-the-air antenna.
Thank you for taking the time to write.

Steve Baboulis-VP/GM
WNYT-TV

Originally posted by MasterFX1
Peter Taubkin is the VP of Government Relations and Public Affairs for Time Warner Cable in our region. His e-mail address is peter.taubkin@twcable.com.

How about we cc: corporate headquarters, too. Do you know an email for them?

Now with Cable rates going up AGAIN....

http://www.timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=193153&category=BUSINESS&BCCode=&newsdate=11/26/2003

I seriously think TWC wants people to leave them and go over to satellite. I guess their billion dollar profit isn't enough.

I couldn't wait for them any longer and went out and bought a STB w/ a RCA Powered Indoor antenna so I could get WRGB and WNYT digitally. Hopefully TWC will ink out a deal with the locals soon ( I'm not holding my breath) so I can return or sell the STB on E-bay and get most of my money back. I don't want to switch over to DirecTV yet since I plan on moving soon.

I bought the Samsung-T351 with the RCA High Power (35-45dB) ANT1250 indoor antenna...I get excellent reception on both WRGB and WNYT digital stations at my 12205 address.

Now I can watch tomorrows Miami @ Dallas NFL game in HD along with the NFL playoffs and Super bowl without relying on unreliable TWC.

I'm going to throw TWC an e-mail soon. Could someone post that corporate headquarters e-mail? It sounds like a good idea to include them on the VP of Government Relations and Public Affairs one.

Hey lufters,

I also picked up a Samsung SIRT-351 but I've been having problems with audio dropouts. I hooked it up to a Radio Shack 80" antenna in the attick and the picture quality is great (pretty good picking up north adams even) but on WRGB and WNYT I am getting a hefty number of audio dropouts. Something like 10 every 30 minutes. Have you had this problem? I'm getting 9 bars on the signal strength for WNYT and WRGB and 8 bars for North Adams.

I experienced audio dropouts last night on WNYT-DT and also had a great signal on my meter. Normally, though, I have not had this problem. Could be on their end and not ours.

MasterFX, which STB do you have?

Zenith Sat520, It wasn't WNYT. I am now experiencing the Drop-Outs on all channels. Due to loose cable jack connection.

For what its worth...

I am not experiencing any audio dropouts..
however, I am receiving the WNYT-DT signal at 44% when it should be closer to 70%.. all the other channels SD/DTV are at normal reception..

I am also a proud owner of a Zenith HDV420 STB purchased from ebay, but unfortunately I don't have my digital tv yet..

Originally posted by ken.martin
Hey lufters,

I also picked up a Samsung SIRT-351 but I've been having problems with audio dropouts. I hooked it up to a Radio Shack 80" antenna in the attick and the picture quality is great (pretty good picking up north adams even) but on WRGB and WNYT I am getting a hefty number of audio dropouts. Something like 10 every 30 minutes. Have you had this problem? I'm getting 9 bars on the signal strength for WNYT and WRGB and 8 bars for North Adams.

I was somewhat reluctant to buy the Samsung since I've been hearing bad things about it....but since it was available locally and I don't plan on keeping it that long, it wasn't that big of a deal.

I would have to say I've had a very steady picture and sound since Mon. I've had an audio drop out here and there (probably the network)...but that’s about it. I was pretty surprised that I picked up WRGB since they’re on low power, but I have almost full signal strength for both WRGB and WNYT.

At first I had a hard time getting to WRGB with constant drop outs (with close to a full signal)…but according to what I’ve read, it was because of interference within my house (walls, appliances, etc.). I moved the power antenna closer to a window, made some adjustments, and never had a problem since.

Tomorrow will be a good test when I watch the entire Miami at Dallas NFL game on WRGB in HD .

Albany Schenectady Troy DTV Update

WRGB-DT has moved to the community tower and is now transmitting in High-Power!

My Panasonic TU-HDS20 cannot receive the signal (No signal meter)
My Zenith SAT520 can receive the signal (Signal meter sits on the line between "Normal" and "Good")

Here's what's strange then, if WRGB is transmitting in high power.

I can get WTEN and WNYT on my Radio shack indoor antenna (the $50 one), but not WRGB. I DID pick up UPN from Pittsfield, MA (but it went from "medium" signal to zero every 2-3 seconds)

May I ask which antenna I need? I thought antenna web listed an omnidirectional antenna would pick up WRGB (UPN is a bit far for that).

I'd PREFER to not have to put an outdoor antenna on (unless it's gonna warm up to 35-40 in the next few days--haha)

How about one of those Terk TV55 thingies that Circuit City sells for $100?

--Kevin

The plot thickens.

If I move the antenna to the NORTH side of my 2nd floor, I get:

6-1 (WRGB)
6-2 (UPN)
and 19-1 (Channel 10 from MA?)

Now, WHY can I pick up Pittsfield, and Adams, but not WNYT and WTEN?

But if I move it to the SOUTH side of my 2nd floor, I will get:

13-1 (WNYT)
10-1 (WTEN)

But NOT WRGB and UPN

Very odd.

I'm using a Samsung 151 HDTV Tuner.

--Kevin

Originally posted by MasterFX1
Albany Schenectady Troy DTV Update

WRGB-DT has moved to the community tower and is now transmitting in High-Power!

My Panasonic TU-HDS20 cannot receive the signal (No signal meter)
My Zenith SAT520 can receive the signal (Signal meter sits on the line between "Normal" and "Good")


When I read this post I had to take an extended lunch and go home and see if I could get the signal in Kingston. Looks like my CM 4248 was a good investment, as the signal is coming through and is rock solid with a reading of GOOD on my Zenith 520. In fact, timing wise, The Young and the Restless was on in HD!!! What's the deal with UPN on 6-2? Does UPN do any HD as I don't think I ever have watched it. I see there is a 6-3 but nothing is being broadcast.

Originally posted by stoder
What's the deal with UPN on 6-2? Does UPN do any HD as I don't think I ever have watched it. I see there is a 6-3 but nothing is being broadcast.


Remember: WRGB-DT has a finite amount of bandwidth and must carefully delegate it.

6-2 is an all-digital simulcast of the UPN affiliate from Pittsfield, MA (Channel 51). UPN does do HD on Wed and Fri prime, however, they are not available in this market. WRGB is doing WNYA a favor by transmitting their signal as a digital sub-channel, they would have to turn off the CBS in 1080i to provide the UPN in 1080i, and since WRGB is a CBS affiliate and not a UPN affiliate, this is rather unlikely.

6-3 was a live feed of the "Instant Doppler 6" radar imagery, but was turned off to improve the picture quality of 6-1 and 6-2. If improvements can be reached, it may come back.

Originally posted by MasterFX1
Remember: WRGB-DT has a finite amount of bandwidth and must carefully delegate it.

6-2 is an all-digital simulcast of the UPN affiliate from Pittsfield, MA (Channel 51). UPN does do HD on Wed and Fri prime, however, they are not available in this market. WRGB is doing WNYA a favor by transmitting their signal as a digital sub-channel, they would have to turn off the CBS in 1080i to provide the UPN in 1080i, and since WRGB is a CBS affiliate and not a UPN affiliate, this is rather unlikely.

6-3 was a live feed of the "Instant Doppler 6" radar imagery, but was turned off to improve the picture quality of 6-1 and 6-2. If improvements can be reached, it may come back.

I did notice that the quality of the HD picture on The Young and the Restless was a little "soft" compared to the quality on WNYT-DT primetime shows. I guess I'll have to wait until tonight to compare WNYT-DT to WRGB-DT. I do realize that WNYT-DT has a sub-channel also. Would be great to compare quality with the full bandwidth. I guess the extra sub-channel is a $$$$ thing......

MasterFX1,

I've been e-mailing Skeeter Lansing (Chief Engineer) at WTEN and in his rely be stated that WTEN, WMHT and WEWB will be up and broadcasting by the end of month. I know he can speak for WTEN, but on TITANTV they show a startup date of May/June 2004 for WMHT and WEWB. Any insight on this? I can live without WB but a PBS station would be great!

Steve

Those dates that TitanTV refers to references the current FCC deadlines for those specific stations. They could certainly be on before the deadline is reached. WTEN, WMHT and WEWB are all close to ready.

Originally posted by lufters
I was somewhat reluctant to buy the Samsung since I've been hearing bad things about it....but since it was available locally and I don't plan on keeping it that long, it wasn't that big of a deal.

I would have to say I've had a very steady picture and sound since Mon. I've had an audio drop out here and there (probably the network)...but that’s about it. I was pretty surprised that I picked up WRGB since they’re on low power, but I have almost full signal strength for both WRGB and WNYT.

At first I had a hard time getting to WRGB with constant drop outs (with close to a full signal)…but according to what I’ve read, it was because of interference within my house (walls, appliances, etc.). I moved the power antenna closer to a window, made some adjustments, and never had a problem since.

Tomorrow will be a good test when I watch the entire Miami at Dallas NFL game on WRGB in HD .

I finally had some time to evaluate my new Samsung OTA tuner. During the Thanksgiving NFL game on WRGB, I was constantly getting audio dropouts every few minutes...not sure if it was because of the Samsung, Network, or WRGB on low power. For WNYT there are audio drop outs, but not as many. It looks to be the Samsung has some issues.

One thing I would like to mention....and maybe MasterFX1 can comment with this...I was very disappointed in the WRGB 6-1 picture quality for the Maimi@Dallas NFL game on Thanksgiving, it was almost unwatchable at times. The picture was very clear (better than MNF on TWC 1810) during close ups with very little movement....but if you had a camera angle with a close-up of players running or with any fast movement, the picture became extremely pixilated. I've read on the other AVS Threads that this seems to be a hit and miss problem around the country. MNF on TWC 1810 does not have this problem at all.

Is this because of WRGB stretching their Bandwidth to thin (more than one dedicated channel) with their broadcast of UPN on 6-2? Could it be a CBS issue?

Now I'm beginning to think why TWC wants to choose what channels they want to broadcast from the locals.

Lufters- Does your receiver have a signal meter?

Originally posted by MasterFX1
Lufters- Does your receiver have a signal meter?

I have a full signal on all channels. I did have to turn down the gain a bit on my RCA Powered Anntena since WRGB went to full power (the signal was dropping)....other than that.. the signal is now good as it's always been.

Hi Lufters,

I watched the Miami/Dallas game and I can add that the broadcast looked just as good as any other NFL game broadcast by CBS in HDTV.. I've only watched HDTV football on CBS and can't make a comparison to MNF.. But I thought the HD shots looked really good since the game was being played indoors/nightime compared to some of the daytime HDTV games played in the bright sunlight..

As for the pixelation, different cameras yield different results.. seems the stationary cameras are the HD ones and the ones on the sidelines and at ground level are some sorta enhanced standard definition? (the ones that do interviews with coaches/players are HD)

Anyway I think that CBS does a much better job with the college football games and we will get a good sampling of that this Saturday night..

Heres a link to some good and bad screenshots I took of the Miami/Dallas game here... (http://home.nycap.rr.com/pdquickk/HDTV1)

Originally posted by BreakStuff
Hi Lufters,

I watched the Miami/Dallas game and I can add that the broadcast looked just as good as any other NFL game broadcast by CBS in HDTV.. I've only watched HDTV football on CBS and can't make a comparison to MNF.. But I thought the HD shots looked really good since the game was being played indoors/nightime compared to some of the daytime HDTV games played in the bright sunlight..

As for the pixelation, different cameras yield different results.. seems the stationary cameras are the HD ones and the ones on the sidelines and at ground level are some sorta enhanced standard definition? (the ones that do interviews with coaches/players are HD)

Anyway I think that CBS does a much better job with the college football games and we will get a good sampling of that this Saturday night..

Heres a link to some good and bad screenshots I took of the Miami/Dallas game here... (http://home.nycap.rr.com/pdquickk/HDTV1)

I can tell you it had absolutely nothing to do with the cameras. After watching every MNF game this year in HD you can easily tell what are the HD cameras and which ones are the Standard. The only standard cameras on MNF are the shots from the blimp and the moving camera that hangs on the cable in the middle of the field.

Thanksgiving was my first CBS HD NFL game I've seen (straight 1080i compared to ABC's 720P upconverted to 1080i). They don't have as many HD cameras as ABC does.

The pixilation was seen only with the HD camera shots during fast motion....more noticeable with the closer shots with it.

My Uncle was over and this was his first HD games he's seen and he noticed it......saying he thought it was to much information and not enough bandwidth....he did notice the non HD shots right away also.

Here's the thread I'm talking about....

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=329348

Does anybody see anything on WRGB 6-3?

I been playing with my Zenith HDV420 STB and all I get on 6-3 is a blank screen.. 6-3 on MyHD card is the same transmission as 6-1.. weird huh?

MasterFX1-

Do you think all this snow will stall progress of all the other affliates planning to go digital this month?

Originally posted by BreakStuff
Does anybody see anything on WRGB 6-3?

I been playing with my Zenith HDV420 STB and all I get on 6-3 is a blank screen.. 6-3 on MyHD card is the same transmission as 6-1.. weird huh?

MasterFX1-

Do you think all this snow will stall progress of all the other affliates planning to go digital this month?

From Masterfx1 on the 12-04-03 02:16 PM post

6-3 was a live feed of the "Instant Doppler 6" radar imagery, but was turned off to improve the picture quality of 6-1 and 6-2. If improvements can be reached, it may come back.

But the funny thing is that I see the digital transmission on 6-3 (WRGB-S2)
I just don't see it on my STB..

Too bad we cant view the CBS NCAA football games in HDTV today, I'm sure the snowfall has something to do with this... :(

Originally posted by BreakStuff
Do you think all this snow will stall progress of all the other affliates planning to go digital this month?

Not really. It may stall one of the affiliates for an hour or two as they clear a path from their vehicles to the transmitter building. It is my understanding that all outside work (except for carrying equipment inside the building) is done.

Originally posted by BreakStuff
Too bad we cant view the CBS NCAA football games in HDTV today, I'm sure the snowfall has something to do with this... :(

Viewers from other markets watched the SEC football championship game on 12/6 in HD. I don't think snow had anything to do with our market being deprived. I do think this was simply a case of a local Master Control Operator "Asleep at the Wheel." This is the single most common nationwide reason a show supposed to be in HD isn't.

When this happens to a show you want to watch you may consider the following:

1. Call that station's newsroom phone (listed in phone book)
2. Ask for Master Control
3. If they say "Why?" or "No," tell them that you thought the show on their air right now was supposed to be in High Definition and wanted to ask the Master Control Operator if that was true.
4. If you get the Master Control Operator just ask him the same question.

9 times out of 10, this will get the dude to "Flip the switch." However, once I called WNYT's newsroom phone to inquire about a West Wing episode they dropped the ball on, and the newsroom person wrongly told me I wouldn't see anything because they were not HD yet. So results will vary from person to person... especially on nights and weekends.

I urge you to e-mail your disappointment when this happens to either the GM and/or Chief Engineer of the "Ball-Dropping" station. The more they realize people are expecting their HD, the more scrutinizing managers will be of their operators, the less often mistakes like this will continue.

Originally posted by BreakStuff
I been playing with my Zenith HDV420 STB and all I get on 6-3 is a blank screen.. 6-3 on MyHD card is the same transmission as 6-1.. weird huh?

This is weird, I don't know why that is. Perhaps a lurking Chief Engineer can enlighten us?

And yes... they are lurking, ummm, monitoring I mean.

This is the email I sent Peter Taubkin (VP at our local TWC, thanks to masterfx1 for the addy):

"As a long time Time Warner subscriber, including your Road Runner service; I'm dismayed by the missing high def feeds of those local channels transmitting in high def. Of course, I speak of WNYT and WRGB. WRGB is especially galling since a naive visitor to your web site would think it was available with programming instead of a "coming soon" card.

I can understand the need to work through a fair contract with the stations, but their high def capability has been coming for some time. I would have thought contract negotiations would have ended long ago.



My upgrade to your digital tier of service was entirely based on the impending high definition channels. I'm very disappointed that I'm still waiting for service from you that I can get over the air with a simple attenna.



Mr. Taubkin, please do what you can to speed up the process so that we, your subscribers, can receive the best the technology offers. After all, the Super Bowl is less than two months away.



Thank you,"

The confusion on 6-3 in some set top boxes and computer decoder cards is due to the fact that there is 6-3 Program Specific Idnetifier Packet (PSIP), but no audio or video packet ID's assigned for that stream. There is not enough bandwidth for a 6-3 at this time, but if the 6-3 PSIP were omitted, users would not find 6-3 when it becomes available unless they were to send the set-top box into the search mode.

thanks Tower Guy,

I have another question that I cannot figure out..

Are the local OTA HDTV stations actually broadcasting in Dolby Digital 5.1?

Whenever I listen to a 5.1 broadcast, I can only hear 2 channel stereo and I get nothing from the rear speaker when using the proper optical or PCM digital audio cables..

Only way to get 5.1 audio is to hook it up with analog cables and decode through my pc's sound card..

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=335429

Are the local OTA HDTV stations actually broadcasting in Dolby Digital 5.1?

CBS currently produces football in 5.1 surround sound. Most other programs are stereo. I'm not aware of any rear channel problem during football. The game this Sunday, 12/14, is Buffalo vs. Tennessee. It should be in HD and 5.1 surround sound. WRGB automatically passes whatever audio format CBS originates.

CBS currently produces football in 5.1 surround sound. Most other programs are stereo.

Thats it!

I receive OTA CBS football in Dolby Digital 5.1, but only get stereo with all other OTA primetime programming..

I was assuming that if the television show was broadcast digitally I would then automatically receive 5.1 audio, My decoder card reports the signal as Dolby 5.1 but this is clearly inaccurate..

This info might help others in the future who have this similiar problem..

I did a little more searching and came up with this list of television shows that broadcast in DD 5.1..

http://www.dolby.com/ht/pa.in.dtv5.1list.html

Thanks again Tower Guy and welcome to the thread. :)

So if I understand this correctly, I can pick up "HD" UPN, but it's really SD? I noticed that UPN only has like 2 shows (all I really care about is Enterprise), but that it's not HD at all? 480p, 720? (1080i, I can probably understand, since very few shows are broadcast at that anyway right now)

And, I was able to adjust my RS antenna and pick up everything EXCEPT WTEN (for some strange reason). Although I can watch that on Cable.

Now I'm getting ready to write a nastygram to TWC about their ridiculous policies regarding retransmission.

--Kevin


Originally posted by MasterFX1
Remember: WRGB-DT has a finite amount of bandwidth and must carefully delegate it.

6-2 is an all-digital simulcast of the UPN affiliate from Pittsfield, MA (Channel 51). UPN does do HD on Wed and Fri prime, however, they are not available in this market. WRGB is doing WNYA a favor by transmitting their signal as a digital sub-channel, they would have to turn off the CBS in 1080i to provide the UPN in 1080i, and since WRGB is a CBS affiliate and not a UPN affiliate, this is rather unlikely.

6-3 was a live feed of the "Instant Doppler 6" radar imagery, but was turned off to improve the picture quality of 6-1 and 6-2. If improvements can be reached, it may come back.

I live in Delmar and the signal meter on my Mitsubishi HD box says I am receiving the WRGB signal at at max of 65%. My Sony Sat200 receives a signal of about 33%. These levels are about the same as I was receiving before the transmitter was moved. Both boxes get WNYT-DT at 100%.

Originally posted by jnic002
I live in Delmar and the signal meter on my Mitsubishi HD box says I am receiving the WRGB signal at at max of 65%. My Sony Sat200 receives a signal of about 33%. These levels are about the same as I was receiving before the transmitter was moved. Both boxes get WNYT-DT at 100%.

The difference between WNYT and WRGB is WNYT is actually on channel 12 with a low gain antenna and WRGB is on channel 39 with a high gain antenna. The temporary WRGB antenna had lower gain, was not mounted very high, and at a lower part of the Helderbergs. The stronger signal from the new WRGB antenna may not be hitting Delmar because Delmar is below the main beam. Once a digital signal is strong enough to make a perfect picture, there is no advantage to a stronger signal.

Originally posted by jnic002
I live in Delmar and the signal meter on my Mitsubishi HD box says I am receiving the WRGB signal at at max of 65%. My Sony Sat200 receives a signal of about 33%. These levels are about the same as I was receiving before the transmitter was moved. Both boxes get WNYT-DT at 100%.

Yes, WRGB-DT is really now in High Power, I could not receive them on either of my boxes before the move.

Keep in mind that WNYT-DT is broadcasting in the VHF band, while WRGB-DT is broadcasting in the UHF band. Signals of equal power from the same location will have varying coverage depending upon what channel they are broadcasting on.

You may consider experimenting with different antennas.

NFL on WRGB-DT update:

Unfortunately CBS has decided to move its HD crew for this Sunday (12/14) to the New England game. WRGB-DT is still planning to show the Buffalo game (Upconverted), so no HD NFL this weekend on WRGB-DT.

The following Saturday (12/20) WRGB-DT will have the Kansas City Chiefs @ Minnesota Vikings in HD.

Sunday's (12/21) HD coverage has yet to be determined.

WRGB-DT is still planning to show the Buffalo game (Upconverted),

What is meant by the term "upconverted" here??

I understand when a signal might be 720p and upconverted to 1080i, But I think you mean something I don't quite understand..

I simply meant that the analog broadcast will be displayed on 6-1, upconverted to 1080i (as is all non-HD material on 6-1.)

Ok, I think I got it now...

Its broadcast in 480i, but its "upconverted" to 1080i to "fit" the digital display format...whereas HDTV would broadcast at 1080i (or 720p) and be shown in the originating 1080i display resolution?..

Yes, when it is originated in 480i it is upconverted to 1080i.

Superbowl Update:

CBS will broadcast live coverage of Super Bowl XXXVIII in high definition, the network has confirmed.

Locally, the High Definition broadcast will be carried Over-The-Air on WRGB-DT.

The game, to broadcast on February 1, will be surrounded by a wealth of pre-game and post-game programmes on the network. This will be the fifteenth Super Bowl to be broadcast by CBS.

I've tried two different indoor antennas (Zenith ZHDTV1 and RCA ANT1250) to receive the OTA HD channels from my home in Guilderland. In both cases, WNYT-DT comes booming in at high signal strength but WRGB-DT is nowhere to be found. Am I out of luck or can anybody recommend a strategy? I'm trying to avoid a roof antenna...

Originally posted by RWSimon
I've tried two different indoor antennas (Zenith ZHDTV1 and RCA ANT1250) to receive the OTA HD channels from my home in Guilderland. In both cases, WNYT-DT comes booming in at high signal strength but WRGB-DT is nowhere to be found. Am I out of luck or can anybody recommend a strategy? I'm trying to avoid a roof antenna...

I have three suggestions;
1. Try tuning in WEWB on analog channel 45 for the best picture, then try again for WRGB.
2. Move your antenna to a spot near a window that faces the Helderbergs and try #1 again.
3. You may consider placing your indoor antenna in the attic, and use the channel 45 aiming method again.
If none of these work, your exact location may suggest another strategy.
Good Luck

Originally posted by Tower Guy
I have three suggestions;
1. Try tuning in WEWB on analog channel 45 for the best picture, then try again for WRGB.

Is this method good for people in all locations or just the Guilderland area?

MasterFX, if you look at http://www.antennaweb.org/ you'll see that the WEWB analog and WRGB-DT are almost in the same compass direction (using my Voorheesville zip code anyway)

Originally posted by MasterFX1
Is this method good for people in all locations or just the Guilderland area?

The aiming method will work for most locations, but the results will differ slightly. The WEWB analog signal is directional toward the Northeast and the WRGB DTV signal is omnidirectional. The two towers are about 600' apart. The WRGB DTV antenna is 400' higher. WEWB's analog transmitter will relocate to the new tower soon. At that point, the suggested aiming method will work the same for everyone.

Thanks for clarifying, this is a great way to set up your antenna for digital without having to sit through an auto-scan after each adjustment.

NFL in HD on WRGB-DT update:

The following games will be originated and broadcast in 1080i and Dolby Digital 5.1 on WRGB-DT.

SAT, DEC. 20 KANSAS CITY @ MINNESOTA

SUN, DEC. 21 MIAMI @ BUFFALO

SAT, DEC. 27 BUFFALO @ NEW ENGLAND

SUN, DEC. 28 DENVER @ GREEN BAY

and of course, the Superbowl on Feb. 1.

Check local listings for times. More games in HD on WRGB-DT to be announced. CBS reserves the right to change their programming decisions without notice.

Time Warner Cable adds HDnet and HDnet Movies!

Here's a link to the press release: http://www.hd.net/2003-prarchive/2003-12-16-01.html

No info yet on local channel assignment and when they will begin carriage.

TWC is not available at my current address, so TWC Subs, let me know if you see new channels in the HD tier.

What box does TWC use in Albany? Does it use DVI?

Originally posted by justman
What box does TWC use in Albany? Does it use DVI?

It is my understanding that Time Warner can privide either DVI or Y,Pr,Pb HD boxes.

I sent the following email to WNYT's director of engineering. Then it occurred to me that I should have checked here first. Is anyone receiving the program information for WNYT's digital channels? Here's the email I sent describing what I see:

===================================

I was wondering if there is a problem with the PSIP information for the digital WNYT channel. My receiver is able to display the program information for WRGB-DT (1,2, 3), WTEN-DT, WMHT-DT, WCDC-DT, WEWB-DT, as well as analog WTEN, WXXA, WMHT, WCDC, WEWB and even analog WNYT. The receiver does not display any program information for WNYT-DT, 13-1 or 13-2 (just color bar being displayed). I don't think it's a receiver problem since I get program information for the other digital and analog channels.

Do you guys think that we will see CBS on TWC by the time the super bowl is broadcast?

Originally posted by jeffbrad
I sent the following email to WNYT's director of engineering. Then it occurred to me that I should have checked here first. Is anyone receiving the program information for WNYT's digital channels? Here's the email I sent describing what I see:

===================================

I was wondering if there is a problem with the PSIP information for the digital WNYT channel. My receiver is able to display the program information for WRGB-DT (1,2, 3), WTEN-DT, WMHT-DT, WCDC-DT, WEWB-DT, as well as analog WTEN, WXXA, WMHT, WCDC, WEWB and even analog WNYT. The receiver does not display any program information for WNYT-DT, 13-1 or 13-2 (just color bar being displayed). I don't think it's a receiver problem since I get program information for the other digital and analog channels.

I also do not receive any program info for WNYT-DT 13-1. I have a Zenith SAT-520 receiver

I used both a Zenith Sat520 and a Panasonic TU-HDS20. Neither of them receives any program information for the WNYT-DT stations.

Remember! These DirecTV receivers are deriving their program info from the DirecTV Program Guide Data, not the station's PSIP data. The problem is that WNYT-DT for some reason has not informed the media services that compile TV listings of their new stations.

It's kind of funny that WEWB-DT has a program listing and is not broadcasting yet (OTA or Cable). WEWB is owned by Tribune. Tribune Media Services is one of those listing services.

The media box tuner with my Pioneer PDP5040HD plasma receives the program information from WNYT-DT just fine. It's the only station I get ... but the data is there.

Originally posted by Ultrix
Do you guys think that we will see CBS on TWC by the time the super bowl is broadcast?

Don't hold your breath. :eek:

But you never know, we could get Lucky....but I doubt it.

Hi all,

Talked to TW last month and they told me that they these were being tested by employees. Does anyone know when we might see them??? They told me sometime in December.



Release Date: December 03, 2003

Scientific-Atlanta Innovation Delivers Dual Tuner DVR/HD Set-Top to Time Warner Cable

�Time Warner Cable-Green Bay Division to deploy Explorer 8000HD�

Anaheim, CA, The Western Show � Scientific-Atlanta announced today the availability of its integrated dual tuner high-definition digital video recorder set-top solution. The new Explorer� 8000HD� High Definition Digital Video Recorder (DVR) will deliver two highly compelling video services � the control and convenience of a Digital Video Recorder and stunning High Definition Television (HDTV) video with digital surround sound. The industry leader in the deployment of DVRs and high-definition television service, Time Warner Cable is now initiating the deployment of HD/DVR set tops in its Green Bay Division, which serves over 150,000 customers in northeast Wisconsin .

__________________

I believe I saw an Explorer 8000HD in Towne TV in Rotterdam. I could be wrong though.

Does anyone know if TWC has changed the HD box they offer to customers yet. They gave me a SA 3100HD and it is a monster POS. While it does "work", it lacks features of newer boxes (it will only output 1080i, not 720P). Also, this box will not output digital audio from analog stations, or let me change the aspect ratio of non-hd stations on the component output, meaning I must constantly change audio modes on my receiver and zoom modes on my display when changing from HD to digital to local stations. If there are newer boxes, is there anyway I could get an upgrade, as all this switching is extremly annoying?

They have the 3250HD, check their web site TWALBANY.COM for the user manual. It's a bit better but you won't get digital audio from analog stations (they're analog, not digital). It will allow changing the aspect of non-hd stations on the component output via switching from 1080i in the setup menu (I setup a macro to do that).

All you have to do is call them to make sure they have one in stock and then stop by, return your 3100HD and they'll give you a new one. Note, the 8000HD (according to this very same thread) is currently in beta locally. It's the HD version of their DVR.

I will be moving to Albany (Clifton Park). I am trying to decide between Time Warner Cable or Direct TV w/ OTA. Any input on the best path to take for HD Locals?

My concern is that the OTA is so new in Albany that they may still be working the bugs out. However, TWC current has only ABC HD.

My preference is direct tv with OTA, but it appears direct tv does not have the Albany locals in SD available, so I would be completely depedent on OTA for local channels.

I subscribe to DirecTV in this area. About 2 weeks ago I received a full color small poster sized flyer that said the local channels were coming soon. All information on their web site indicates the same. I believe they have launched a new sat which has given them an ability to add more things.

I would think that Clifton Park would receive very good OTA reception, a situation I myself may not be as fortunate with here on the eastern edge of Rensselaer county (but I plan to try). Maybe someone here can let you know.

Living in Halfmoon which is right next to Clifton Park my OTA HD reception was good for the stations that are broadcasting (with an 80" VHF/UHF antenna in the attic). Heck, even with rabbit ears I was able to get the two broadcasting locals. Time warner also looked good in HD but they still only have ABC AFAIK. One note, for me my Time Warner analog stations look like junk. I get a much better picture analog from my antenna than from TWC. Same in house wiring so I'm guessing it is something outside the house. With OTA HD I did have a lot of problems with audio dropouts but I think that was the Samsung SIRT351 and not a signal strength issue.

If you are already a DirecTV sub, personally I would take advantage of their mover program and stick with them.

In Clifton Park you should have absolutely no trouble at all with the local OTA's using a rooftop antenna and gain amp.

I agree the SD on Time Warner is just too compressed and the local analogs look better OTA then the local analogs converted to Time Warner Digital.

Furthermore, there is still no agreements with the NBC, CBS and WB affiliates for carriage in HD on TWC..

FOX23, however, MIGHT be working on delivering HD (When it's available from the network) to Time Warner before they can get up and running OTA. They COULD be working toward delivering the Daytona500 in HD in Mid-Feb. Their OTA stuff wouldn't be ready till March/April at the earliest. THERE IS NO GUARANTEE THIS WILL HAPPEN.

The locals (in SD) on DirecTV will be available very soon (1 to 2 Months). They already are on DISH.

Locals aside, the only HD advantage TWC has is INHD and INHD2... While DirecTV has NFL Sunday Ticket and ESPN-HD. They both now have Discovery HD Theater, HDnet and HDnet Movies, HBO-HD and SHO-HD. Both TWC and DirecTV claim they will be "Doubling and Tripling" their HD offerings in the very near future.

Be sure to compare the monthly cost of these different choices. I find TWC's Digital Tier (A requirement for HD) way too expensive.

During these quick changing transitional times, unless you've got the money and desire to buy all the different services, I think it prudent to choose the solution that most suits your household's actual viewing habits and budget. It is VERY costly to secure everything that is available in HD into one household. Good luck - Choose Wisely.

Master FX...I didn't see HDnet on my TWC HD box this morning??? What channel are you finding it on?

Originally posted by jpeter1093
Master FX...I didn't see HDnet on my TWC HD box this morning??? What channel are you finding it on?

I'm sorry, I was mistaken, HDnet and HDnet movies are going to be on TWC... see my previous post linking to the Press Release. They are not up yet locally. Thanks for pointing that out jpeter1093, sorry if this casued you to surf your entire menu.

FOX23, however, MIGHT be working on delivering HD (When it's available from the network) to Time Warner before they can get up and running OTA. They COULD be working toward delivering the Daytona500 in HD in Mid-Feb

The Daytona 500 is on NBC - WNYT this year.

Originally posted by hooterville guy
I subscribe to DirecTV in this area. About 2 weeks ago I received a full color small poster sized flyer that said the local channels were coming soon. All information on their web site indicates the same. I believe they have launched a new sat which has given them an ability to add more things.

I would think that Clifton Park would receive very good OTA reception, a situation I myself may not be as fortunate with here on the eastern edge of Rensselaer county (but I plan to try). Maybe someone here can let you know.

DirecTV has a satellite launch scheduled for the first quarter of 2004.

http://www.spacedaily.com/news/sealaunch-03c.html

The satelite had been scheduled for launch in French Guyana by now, but construction delays caused it to miss it's window. The reassignment to Sea Launch was the soonest flight that DirecTV could find. The Albany stations are schedule to be on that satellite.

Generally speaking, the bit rate of SD local into local is so low that the video has obvious artifacts. You will have no difficulty with the Albany DTV OTA stations from Clifton Park. The video quality of analog transmitters often beat cable when received with a good rooftop anrtenna.

I called Time Warner Albany today to inquire about the 3250HD and the DVR-8000HD availability. The 3250HD is available now but I was told the DVR-8000HD won't be available until this Spring.

I have been considering the purchase of the new Pioneer TiVo with the built in DVD burner but have decided to wait until I can find out what will or will not be able to be copied to DVD with the new Broadcasters flag stuff.

Would it be worth my while to get the DVR-8000 without HD capability for $5.00 extra per month or should I wait for the 8000HD? In either case my HDTV does not have a DVI input, component is the best I can do for now :mad:

Thanks for any suggestions,
Wordz

XEROX never did anything original

Originally posted by hooterville guy
The Daytona 500 is on NBC - WNYT this year.

Sorry again. I do believe that FOX23 is working on getting HD or at least 480P Widescreen to TWC before they will be broadcasting it OTA.

NBC (Nationally) has made no relevant announcements concerning sports in HD.

Any update as to when they will be up broadcasting in digital?

Any update as to when they will be up broadcasting in digital? I spy in my little eye a new(not really new) OTA station broadcasting digital in the capitol region. Anyone care to comment? :)

Tried a new scan and didn't find anything I hadn't heard of before, but did for the first time pick up CBS and UPN from my little indoor antenna. CBS comes in on 80.1 and UPN on 80.2. What in the world are these numbers? Can't make much sense of them at all!

sorry RWSimon,

I did a scan when I got home from work and was glad to find WMHT broadcasting in HDTV!

I don't know the name of the show they are broadcasting on 17-3, but this is the prettiest high definition broadcast I've seen yet! I'm actually recording the broadcast and I'll post some pics later..

Update: WMHT is broadcasting what appears to be 1080i HiDef on channel 17-3, and also broadcasting standard 480i on channel 17-4.

At this moment, there are 2 different shows being broadcast on the 2 channels.. MyHD card shows the signal strength at 93-100%.

Good catch BreakStuff.

I am getting 17-3 and 17-4 also, at about half-way through the "Good" range on my signal meter. The audio is out of sync on 17-4, but appears to be a simulcast of analog 17.

PBS HDTV is really a spectacle with alot of eye candy, at times I was afraid to look away in fear I might miss some spectacular HDTV shot! I don't know the names of the 2 different shows I watched, but I took some screenshots here (http://home.nycap.rr.com/pdquickk/WMHT/)

Ok.. I have a question and maybe someones answer can help out what Simon was referring too a few post's back..

When I view WRGB digital television, I see the broadcast on channel numbers 6-1, 6-2, 6-3.. I also know that channel 39-1 is part of the equation that I do not understand.. 39-1(39) is UHF(ultra high), 6-1,6-2,6-3 are VHF (very high) signals..

What is the purpose of channel 39?

Is the actual broadcast a VHF or UHF signal?

*Note: I only see 6-3 on my pc HDTV card and not on my STB, so don't think somethings wrong if you don't currently see anything on 6-3..

OK, you start with the analog channel assignment... In WRGB's case that's channel 6(VHF). WRGB-DT is broadcasting on 39(UHF). Ironically, to make things "Less" confusing, Channel 39 is RE-ASSIGNED to channels 6-1, 6-2, 6-3. This is done so that viewers can relate the analog broadcast to the digital. Again, in WRGB's case, the digital channels are broadcasing on 39, but for the viewers benefit, they are labeled 6-1, 6-2, 6-3.

Side note: For some reason, my tuner (Zenith Sat520) is now showing WRGB-DT on Channels 39-2 and 39-3. I have a listing with program info for 6-1, 6-2 and 6-3 provided from the DirecTV data stream, but those channels are now blank. It also seems odd the WMHT would label there OTA digital channels as 17-3 and 17-4.

Update from Niskayuna, NY...I'm also seeing 39-2 and 39-3, rather than on the reassignments of 6-1 and 6-2 (also using the Zenith SAT520).

On the DX side of things, I'm currently using a set-top antenna, but am able to see:
WNYT-DT -- 13-1 (1080i) & 13-2 (480p, Bars)
WMHT-DT-- 17-3 (1080i, PBS HD-feed) & 17-4 (480p, simulcast of WMHT-TV)
WCDC-DT-- 19-1 (480p, simulcast of WCDC-TV)
WRGB-DT -- 39-2 (1080i) & 39-3 (480p, WNYA simulcast)

Everything here looks great...between "Normal" and "Good" on the signal meter.

Thank you to all of the hard working engineers that have their DTV signals on the air for us to enjoy!

Originally posted by Sat-Matt
Update from Niskayuna, NY...I'm also seeing 39-2 and 39-3, rather than on the reassignments of 6-1 and 6-2 (also using the Zenith SAT520).

On the DX side of things, I'm currently using a set-top antenna, but am able to see:
WNYT-DT -- 13-1 (1080i) & 13-2 (480p, Bars)
WMHT-DT-- 17-3 (1080i, PBS HD-feed) & 17-4 (480p, simulcast of WMHT-TV)
WCDC-DT-- 19-1 (480p, simulcast of WCDC-TV)
WRGB-DT -- 39-2 (1080i) & 39-3 (480p, WNYA simulcast)

Everything here looks great...between "Normal" and "Good" on the signal meter.

Thank you to all of the hard working engineers that have their DTV signals on the air for us to enjoy!

And thanks to Time Warner Cable and the Locals in not getting their act together! :mad:

Direct TV here I come!

When I stopped at TWC to pick up my 3250HD box a few weeks ago, I asked the counter rep when WRGB would be on channel 1806... she said "hopefully by 12/31".

Well, I didn't check this morning, but I doubt it's there yet. Anyone know a phone number or email address at the local TW office to ask/complain?

Originally posted by slayerav
When I stopped at TWC to pick up my 3250HD box a few weeks ago, I asked the counter rep when WRGB would be on channel 1806... she said "hopefully by 12/31".

Well, I didn't check this morning, but I doubt it's there yet. Anyone know a phone number or email address at the local TW office to ask/complain?

The number that I have for Time Warner is 1-866-321-2225, which seems to be a regional "customer care" number. As noted in an earlier post in this thread, another option is contacting Peter Taubkin, VP of Government Relations and Public Affairs for Time Warner Cable in our region. His e-mail address is peter.taubkin@twcable.com.

Good luck, and keep us posted! As for me, I made the leap to DirecTV...

6-1 and 6-2 are back on their proper re-assignment for me.

Originally posted by slayerav
When I stopped at TWC to pick up my 3250HD box a few weeks ago, I asked the counter rep when WRGB would be on channel 1806... she said "hopefully by 12/31".

What are the main differrences between the 3100HD and the 3250HD? My Mitsubishi 55411 doesnt have DVI inouts so that wouldn't be an issue for me. It probably will be later though.:( I went over yesterday to pick up the 8000 DVR and when I got home discovered it would replace my 3100HD box.:mad: This was not what I was told on the phone when I called to inquire about the 8000 DVR. The service rep there told me I would still be able to view HD but not be able to record it, which was ok with me until the 8000HD was available. I took the 8000 back and said thanks but no thanks and told the girl that they should have better training for their tech reps so they don't waste people's time by giving them false information.

Wordz

Originally posted by slayerav
When I stopped at TWC to pick up my 3250HD box a few weeks ago, I asked the counter rep when WRGB would be on channel 1806... she said "hopefully by 12/31".

Well, I didn't check this morning, but I doubt it's there yet. Anyone know a phone number or email address at the local TW office to ask/complain?

As of 5:00PM today...still no WRGB. These reps are full of it. They told me it would be up in November....maybe they meant November 2004. You can never get a straight answer from these guys. Only a few at the top of Albany TWC really know whats going on...but you'll never hear the real truth (major contract disputes) since they want to keep us as customers.

Originally posted by Wordz
What are the main differrences between the 3100HD and the 3250HD? My Mitsubishi 55411 doesnt have DVI inouts so that wouldn't be an issue for me. It probably will be later though.:( I went over yesterday to pick up the 8000 DVR and when I got home discovered it would replace my 3100HD box.:mad: This was not what I was told on the phone when I called to inquire about the 8000 DVR. The service rep there told me I would still be able to view HD but not be able to record it, which was ok with me until the 8000HD was available. I took the 8000 back and said thanks but no thanks and told the girl that they should have better training for their tech reps so they don't waste people's time by giving them false information.

Wordz

I had a 3100HD but traded it in for a 3250HD.
The main differences are:
1: It runs much cooler
2: Noticeably faster channel tuning (more memory, faster processor)
3: No need for separate analog audio cables. Both Digital and Analog sound now can go though the digital output from the STB to your receiver

One real bad thing:
You can not view the program guide if you using the S-video output.
I use S-video for better picture quality on my Non-HD channels. I heard it
may be a glitch in the box and SA may come up with a patch that TW would push down. I haven't seen the patch yet.

Originally posted by lufters
3: No need for separate analog audio cables. Both Digital and Analog sound now can go though the digital output from the STB to your receiver


This is what I meant when I was asking for digital audio from the analog stations. With the 3100HD, constantly changing from digital to analog on my receiver was a monster PITA. Also, I understand the 3250HD has aspect ratio controls as well as resolution options. I would specifically like to know if you can set the HD output to be the native res of the current channel (1080i for HBO but 720P for ABC). My display can do both 720P and 1080i, but the 3100HD will only output at 1080i.