Originally posted by kmfrain
I'm located in Rutherford - 10 miles outside NYC. I've got a Silver Series on my front porch pointed at NYC. I did the scan in a Hughes e86 and only got a few channels picked up but nothing with a clear picture. No CBS, WB, PBS. Is there a step I am missing with the scan or set up?

Does your E86 "show" CBS (2-1) or FOX (5-1) or UPN (5-2) or WPIX (11-1) on the local channels directory in your menu? If it does and you can't get a lock, have someone go outside and move the antenna around while you are on the signal strength screen. Is your porch at ground level? I'd say you should try to get the antenna up high as possible.

Can you get any analog stations with the sensor hooked up after doing a scan? Like the local PBS analogs? (50/52/58)? I believe the SS is a UHF antenna so I don't think you'd see analog 2/4/5/7/9...maybe 11 and 13...but not that clearly I guess.

Thanks for the input I'll try various positions.

Jaypb when you say shows CBS 2-1. I think the answer to that question is no. Basically when I was doing the scan it listed 2,3,4,5,6 down the left and it "found" a few signals and showed the signal as analog. When I turned to these stations there was really no picture. Where should CBS 2-1 show up in the guide? In the scan screen? If it is one or both of these it is currently not displaying in either. Does it show up right after CBS 2, CBS 2-1? There is not a lot of information in the manual. If not for this forum where do you find any information? Thanks again.

Yes the antenna is UHF

Originally posted by dswallow
http://www.globalserve.net/~hepburnw/tropo.html

Thanks - Is there ever a time when our area exhiibits intense or extremely intense condition?

I have noticed better reception after sunset into the early am hours.

Originally posted by kmfrain
Thanks for the input I'll try various positions.

Jaypb when you say shows CBS 2-1. I think the answer to that question is no. Basically when I was doing the scan it listed 2,3,4,5,6 down the left and it "found" a few signals and showed the signal as analog. When I turned to these stations there was really no picture. Where should CBS 2-1 show up in the guide? In the scan screen? If it is one or both of these it is currently not displaying in either. Does it show up right after CBS 2, CBS 2-1? There is not a lot of information in the manual. If not for this forum where do you find any information? Thanks again.


I'm at work now so I'm going to *try* and go from memory here. If you go into the menu (Action-Menu) and then hit (I believe)Installation and then Set up and then go to the local channels section I think that's where you do the scan. It takes about 2-3 minutes....at that point you should see: 2 analog, 2-1 digital, 5 analog, 5-1 digital or something along those lines. You then check off the digital or analog signals and exit out of that screen.
You'll then see the digitals ("-1") in the one line guide and the main guide coming up.

You could also try inputting your zipcode---it's SOMEWHERE in that local channel set up area. I *think* that should make your digitals come up as it gets the listings from a database of some sort.

I can't believe I'm not remembering how I did it at first. I KNOW I didn't read the manual....I actually think I found directions on the "Hardware" part of this avsforum.com site. There's a bunch of people over there that use the E86---only problem is you can't SEARCH on this site for things with less than 4 characters. IOW's if you search for E86 I think it says "can not find anything with less than 4 characters". Try doing a search for Hughes on the Hardware forum.

There's a pretty informative poster on this site...think his site name is GREYWOLF. He uses an E86 and has a boatload of posts on the functions of the box.

Sorry I couldn't answer your question off the top of my head.
:(

Thanks for the help - I'm at work as well so I will check it tonight. I definitely didn't get the 2-1 digital as a line item after or before the scan.

No HDTV reception in Warren

Looking for some help from the members of the NJ forum. I recently took the plunge into HDTV and purchased a MYHD card. I am unable to receive any signal at all. My current setup is a CM4228 mounted on a rotor 18 feet above my roof. I have also tried both a CM7777 and a RS 1109 pre amp. I can not receive any digital signal at all. My analog reception varies by channel with 58 excellent 13 and 31 good. I'm at a loss as to what else I can try. It's almost like my home is in a black hole.
Thanks

Mjdenn

Without being more specific about your location, the stations you're getting are:

58 135.4° 30.52mi

13 114° 52.42mi
31 114° 52.42mi

Actually 114° is the WTC site, so those are really coming from 111° now, I believe. I'd think you could also get 25, 41, 57 & 68 with some success, too.

What sort of picture do you see on 13 & 31? Does it look ghosted or just snowy? If ghosted, that's probably affected by multipath and causing your receiver card not to be able to lock onto a signal. DO you think there's obstructions between you and the Empire State Building like hills/mountains/tall buildings?

You're about the same distance to Philadelphia stations (at 206°) as you are NYC stations. Have you tried scanning for any of those (26 being one of the stronger ones)?

Not surprisingly, as Dswallow mentioned, Monday (or in my case Sunday) would be a good evening to watch WCAU (10-1). Just happened to scroll past 10-1 at 11:14pm and was able to watch a few minutes of the 11 pm news. Believe my E86 picked up a 46 on the signal meter---when I checked at 8pm the strength was about 18. Go figure :cool:

BTW---I mentioned in the Philly thread that watching "Atlantis" on WPVI (6-1) was issue filled---green lines, some pixelation---even though my signal meter said 93.

Again, Go figure :confused:

mjdenn--
I'm at a loss as to what else I can try. It's almost like my home is in a black hole.

Maybe you are.....exactly where in Warren are you located? That's fairly hilly terrain and unless you're on a hilltop, I wouldn't be surprised if you received nothing at all (which seems to be the case).

SteveK

Originally posted by mjdenn
No HDTV reception in Warren

Looking for some help from the members of the NJ forum. I recently took the plunge into HDTV and purchased a MYHD card. I am unable to receive any signal at all. My current setup is a CM4228 mounted on a rotor 18 feet above my roof. I have also tried both a CM7777 and a RS 1109 pre amp. I can not receive any digital signal at all. My analog reception varies by channel with 58 excellent 13 and 31 good. I'm at a loss as to what else I can try. It's almost like my home is in a black hole.
Thanks

Mjdenn
You aiming at NYC or Philly?

Philly will be extremely borderline for you. It will only work if you are near the top of one of the mountains. Down in the valley - No chance of Philly. I still haven't convinced the family to go for a rooftop 4228 (They don't want to be the only house in the neighborhood with a rooftop antenna.), so I can't tell you if Philly is obtainable from a house close to the top of the southern ridge of the Watchungs yet. (I live right on the Martinsville/Warren border and work in Warren.)

NYC should be a cakewalk with a 4228. I can receive NYC channels (all two of them, Ch44 and Ch56...) with a MyHD, CM 3041DSB, and POS V/U combo antenna in the attic.

Make sure to disable virtual channel mode on the MyHD. Channel remapping is evil. Also hunt down the 156b3 drivers/app, they improve reception in some situations. Force the channel table to "AIR" instead of "AUTO", sometimes the MyHD gets confused and picks one of the cable schemes, which kills autoscanning.

Suggestion: Force the MyHD to D56-AIR, and then start rotating the antenna to search for WCBS-DT. Peak it and you should get both CBS and Fox.

Once WNJB-DT goes on air that should be easy too.

Originally posted by Entropy512
Down in the valley - No chance of Philly. I still haven't convinced the family to go for a rooftop 4228 (They don't want to be the only house in the neighborhood with a rooftop antenna.), so I can't tell you if Philly is obtainable from a house close to the top of the southern ridge of the Watchungs yet. (I live right on the Martinsville/Warren border and work in Warren.)

Was it you who asked for a photo of the CM 4228? I've been meaning to take a few pictures (for my memoirs of course :p ) but haven't gotten around to it.

I'll post 'em when this damn snow goes away:mad:

decided to tune in to NAB on HDNET snow has knocked out all satelites except hd sat . all im getting is OTA and HD channels. :(

I thought the same thing until I found a layer of slush on my dish (for the first time in 8 years!), wiped it off, and all signals then came in.

Originally posted by dswallow
I thought the same thing until I found a layer of slush on my dish (for the first time in 8 years!), wiped it off, and all signals then came in.

I must be brain dead today (too many late nights of xbox this week) running outside with a broom now!

Originally posted by webboy10169
I must be brain dead today (too many late nights of xbox this week) running outside with a broom now!

The wife just called and said the Signal went out on our dish about an hour and a half ago. I cringed when I heard that this snow was supposed to be the heavy variety. Last year we had a storm that only dropped about 3 inches on the area and I lost signal for 1/2 a day....yet the 23 inch storm of 2 months ago resulted in now loss of signal. Powdery snow rules!!!:p

jaypb

You may want to give this a try to keep the snow of the dish it works best with the wet snow not the fluffy stuff. Dry of the dish completly and give is a good coating of PAM cooking spray.

It really keeps the snow from slushing up on the dish it's not 100% but it will stop those fequent trips to the dish.

Be careful when cleaning snow off the dish!!! I've had no snow buildup on the dish itself.....it faces southwest and the snow/winds are from the northeast today....sort of shielding itself from the snow.

BUT...the LNB itself had a 1/2" of slush buildup on it. Cleaned it off twice (very gently) with a broom. Instant strong signal. This wet, heavy snow @about 32 degrees really makes the snow adhere to things.

Dont spray the LNBF!

Originally posted by jaypb
The wife just called and said the Signal went out on our dish about an hour and a half ago. I cringed when I heard that this snow was supposed to be the heavy variety. Last year we had a storm that only dropped about 3 inches on the area and I lost signal for 1/2 a day....yet the 23 inch storm of 2 months ago resulted in now loss of signal. Powdery snow rules!!!:p

4:00 and the signal is back not sure when it came back as ive been working but decided to check after looking at dish (no snow on dish).

and yes the last storm resulting in 29-34 inches of snow produced 23 seconds of outage. Wet snow sucks...

Originally posted by wward
jaypb

You may want to give this a try to keep the snow of the dish it works best with the wet snow not the fluffy stuff. Dry of the dish completly and give is a good coating of PAM cooking spray.

It really keeps the snow from slushing up on the dish it's not 100% but it will stop those fequent trips to the dish.

I've been meaning to do that for three years now...but I never remember to do it! That humungo storm in February, 23 inches or so....assuaged my fears about reception in snow....until I remembered this AM that THIS storm was to be the packable, heavy, wet snow---the dreaded type.

I'll survive. Luckily my Triple LNB dish is OK. It's the Dual LNB that has snow issues--and it's up near the peak of my roof while the Triple is near the base of the roof in the back of the house.

jaypb

Wow that's quit an impressive dish setup what are the two dishes used for?

Originally posted by wward
jaypb

Wow that's quit an impressive dish setup what are the two dishes used for?

I upgraded my D* service 2 months ago when I bought my E86. Dickered with D* for "help" getting a TRiple LNB dish---I was part of the thread on the Hardware forum entitled" How to get a credit from Directv to upgrade...".

Had them put the 2nd dish on the roof without removing the first since I'm running 5 receivers. That Triple LNB dish has a multi switch built into it...but you need a 22khz tone switch to add on more than 4 receivers. The installer didn't seem to know that....ergo I told him don't touch the first, put up the 2nd :D

And here I am.......:p

Not sure if this occurs for anyone else but here goes:

How EXACTLY does AW.org break down it's "colors" for the type of antenna you use? I've noticed that I "get" the channels for my area with the CM4228 that are in the "light green" area, but the ones in the "blue" area, pretty much CONSISTENTLY I CAN NOT GET! The other thing I don't get is:
Philly's antenna farm--Roxborough? Are ALL THE ANTENNAS in "pretty much the same area"??? By that I mean---WPVI/WPSG/KYW-DT (the ones I pick up out of Philly with ease) are all in the "light green" area for me---but WCAU/WPHL/WTXF-DT (the ones I pick up when the stars are in alignment) are all in the "blue" area yet I THOUGHT they were all in the same location? Does antenna web take into account low power as well as height of the transmitter/antenna when it "breaks down" the channels you should be able to get based on your location?

I'm only asking because last night as I sat down and looked at my "list" from antenna web I noticed this. And, I think Doug's (DSWALLOW) little website spit me out a larger list of analog/digital stations with my distance from the transmitters---and the Philly stations are all pretty much in the same area (maybe a mile or two apart). That got me thinking even more.

Does this make sense? Is it that the CM4228 isn't "blue" rated as an antenna? I *thought* it had a fringe application (ie around 60 miles). If it's just a low power issue I can live with it until they "turn up the juice" (if they ever do :mad: ) but I'm just trying to understand it all. IF I need to get the antenna up "higher", I'll have to improvise. If I need to try a different antenna....well that's an option as well.

Maddening eh? :p

The 3 channels you can not pick up are the most troublesome for EVERYONE.

I was told by Tribune Broadcasting that WPHL was unable to run at full power to the North as they would cause interference with Channel 39 in Allentown, PA. After hours of struggling, I can finally receive this channel - but I do have to suffer through numerous dropouts. The signal bounces between 35-45 constantly! I can watch a show dropout free half the time.

No one can receive WCAU and WTXF won't be on full power until next year. I wouldn't surprise me if WNBC is on full power BEFORE WCAU.

I wouldn't continue to kill yourself on those 3 channels. That is why the Philadelphia DTV situation is one of the sorriest of any major US city.

Originally posted by pabuwal
The 3 channels you can not pick up are the most troublesome for EVERYONE.

I was told by Tribune Broadcasting that WPHL was unable to run at full power to the North as they would cause interference with Channel 39 in Allentown, PA. After hours of struggling, I can finally receive this channel - but I do have to suffer through numerous dropouts. The signal bounces between 35-45 constantly! I can watch a show dropout free half the time.

No one can receive WCAU and WTXF won't be on full power until next year. I wouldn't surprise me if WNBC is on full power BEFORE WCAU.

I wouldn't continue to kill yourself on those 3 channels. That is why the Philadelphia DTV situation is one of the sorriest of any major US city.

I kind of knew about the low power WCAU *issue* (low power/transmission/antenna issues), but I didn't know about the PHL and TXF issues. Like most things I immerse myself in, I'm just trying to figure out the WHY behind things :p

Does antennaweb.org factor in the crappy issues above when they spit out my "reception" possibilities? It just seemed odd to me that stations transmitting from (what I assume are the same location as others I can't receive are in light green vs. the blue.

I was just curious to see if I hooked up a different antenna if I'd receive those channels....but odds are, based on what has been written here and in the Philly thread, that I would not.

The NBC issue (in nYC and Philly) is the one that's KILLING ME!!! UPN has NO HD programming as of now...and WB has shows I don't watch. I'd LIKE to get WB-11 for the Mets games in HD, but until they pop up at a higher power...and on Channel 33, I don't think that's going to happen.

I can swing the antenna around to NYC for Fox (my wife watches "24") and CBS from both spots booms! ABC out of Philly is nearly perfect so that network is covered. PBS comes in from Trenton (43) and somewhere else (52??) in High Def so I'm ok there.

Just that damn Peacock!!!
:D

Originally posted by jaypb
The NBC issue (in nYC and Philly) is the one that's KILLING ME!!! UPN has NO HD programming as of now...and WB has shows I don't watch. I'd LIKE to get WB-11 for the Mets games in HD, but until they pop up at a higher power...and on Channel 33, I don't think that's going to happen.

:D

Whachu talkin' bout Mets in HD?!?!?! :eek:

Originally posted by Calabs
Whachu talkin' bout Mets in HD?!?!?! :eek:

Over on the WPIX thred on this board the HD folks from WPIX commented on how a select handful of Mets homegames will be in HD. I believe their last ST game at Shea was in HD.

If I can watch a Nova show on PBS in HD for an hour I'm sure I can bring myself to tune in to a Mets game for a few innings :p

Now, if only D* would get me my ESPN-HD I'd know the Apocolypse was upon us :D

Originally posted by jaypb


If I can watch a Nova show on PBS in HD for an hour I'm sure I can bring myself to tune in to a Mets game for a few innings :p



I hear ya. It's not the Yankees, but it's HD baseball, which is outstanding to watch! ;)

Can you say "YES-HD"?

Originally posted by Calabs
I hear ya. It's not the Yankees, but it's HD baseball, which is outstanding to watch! ;)

Can you say "YES-HD"?

Dont expect it any time soon Talked to Yes network the other day in reguards to my Yes network being blacked out. I mentioned HD to them
there answer was years away. Now im sure its not that long but it does mean rewiring yankee stadium. And im sure almighty George is trill trying to figure out how to get a new stadium before investing millions in the current stadium.

PS yes a hand full of mets games MAY be braodcast in HD OTA but thats only if they utilize MSG/Fox Sports Net equipment. As there the ones broadcasting HD signals and it would appear that those networks climbed in bed with comcast as there the only ones showing MSG/Fox Sports Net in HD. Correct me if im wrong...

Originally posted by webboy10169
Dont expect it any time soon Talked to Yes network the other day in reguards to my Yes network being blacked out. I mentioned HD to them
there answer was years away. Now im sure its not that long but it does mean rewiring yankee stadium. And im sure almighty George is trill trying to figure out how to get a new stadium before investing millions in the current stadium.



That's OK...... I was just trying to be funny (I guess it didn't work!) :D
I'm sure there will be at least a FEW Yankee games in HD this year, either the game of the week, or on CBS. Anyone know for sure?

Originally posted by Calabs
That's OK...... I was just trying to be funny (I guess it didn't work!) :D
I'm sure there will be at least a FEW Yankee games in HD this year, either the game of the week, or on CBS. Anyone know for sure?

No i got the humor i just wanted to relay the info i got from the programming department. As for CBS HD Yankees if i could find a phone number i'd gladly call. Although so far i havent seen a baseball game on CBS in HD. But im stuck watching CBS out of Philly, so no yankees OTA for me :(

Originally posted by webboy10169
No i got the humor i just wanted to relay the info i got from the programming department. As for CBS HD Yankees if i could find a phone number i'd gladly call. Although so far i havent seen a baseball game on CBS in HD. But im stuck watching CBS out of Philly, so no yankees OTA for me :(

Hey webboy, I appreciate the info. Not surprised though with Big George at the helm! I'm in a location where I could swing the old antenna 180 degrees and pick up CBS NY very well. Heck, if they starting showing Yankee games in HD, it may persuade me to go out and get a rotator. ;) Jackson, however, may be a bit too far to pick up CBS from NY....no luck for you?

Originally posted by Calabs
Hey webboy, I appreciate the info. Not surprised though with Big George at the helm! I'm in a location where I could swing the old antenna 180 degrees and pick up CBS NY very well. Heck, if they starting showing Yankee games in HD, it may persuade me to go out and get a rotator. ;) Jackson, however, may be a bit too far to pick up CBS from NY....no luck for you?

My current ota setup is a silver sensor behind the tv pointing at philly. I havent been able to pick up a faint signal from NYC at all. :( My next venture is a roof top antenna (fly swatter style) Im just trying to figure out how to mount that sucker with a rotor on a 6 foot wide chimney?!? I guess i'll call warren electronics today as so many other reccommend them.

Originally posted by webboy10169
My current ota setup is a silver sensor behind the tv pointing at philly. I havent been able to pick up a faint signal from NYC at all. :( My next venture is a roof top antenna (fly swatter style) Im just trying to figure out how to mount that sucker with a rotor on a 6 foot wide chimney?!? I guess i'll call warren electronics today as so many other reccommend them.

Yes, the indoor type limits you somewhat. The bowties are good directional antennas. The 8 bowtie offers lots of gain. You may want to give Interstate Electroncis a call as well. They're sort of local, in Hazlet. Here's their website: http://www.interstateelectronics.com/

good luck!

I wanted to add a link here to my question on "two antennas in (North/Central) NJ" I didn't put it here as I wanted to get advice from people outside NJ too.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=246924

Originally posted by Calabs
I hear ya. It's not the Yankees, but it's HD baseball, which is outstanding to watch! ;)

Can you say "YES-HD"?

I assume we'll see that in the not so distant future. I'm curious as to why we haven't/won't see any HD broadcasts of the CBS Yankee games. I know that Cablevision out on LI has some HD games for Rangers/Isles games....

Originally posted by rphooper
I wanted to add a link here to my question on "two antennas in (North/Central) NJ" I didn't put it here as I wanted to get advice from people outside NJ too.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=246924

When you try to pull in stations from different locations via the same line, you will get interference. This is why many networks have lower power allocated to them, because if they used full power, it would interfere with neighboring cities. A good example of this is the new tower that is supposed to go up to replace the WTC location. The new location had to be within a certain radius of the old WTC site so as to not interfere with signals coming from CT, etc. There are two simple solutions. Get a rotator and use just one antenna to pick up both NYC and PA signals. Or you can run two separate cables, one for each antenna in order to separate the signals. Either way should work.

Noticed the post over on the PHilly thread and figured I'd mention it here. 34-1/2/3/4 on my Hughes E86. Glad to see they finally went "live". I've had a signal on that channel for over 2 months with no picture....it's about time :D

Also, it seems my E86 has remapped 43-1/2/3/4 to 52-1/2/3/4 overnight. Wonder if the PSIP issue is gone now? Anyone else notice the same?

Originally posted by jaypb

Also, it seems my E86 has remapped 43-1/2/3/4 to 52-1/2/3/4 overnight. Wonder if the PSIP issue is gone now? Anyone else notice the same?

Yes, I noticed this remapping last night as well.

Originally posted by jaypb
Noticed the post over on the PHilly thread and figured I'd mention it here. 34-1/2/3/4 on my Hughes E86. Glad to see they finally went "live". I've had a signal on that channel for over 2 months with no picture....it's about time :D

Also, it seems my E86 has remapped 43-1/2/3/4 to 52-1/2/3/4 overnight. Wonder if the PSIP issue is gone now? Anyone else notice the same?

Funny i dont ever remember having 43-1/2/3/4 with a signal. I know my E86 mapped 43-1/2 at one time but with no signal. Ive always had 52-1/2/3/4. Is it possible being im not having the problems other are having eg. mapping, day light savings time that i have a newer rev of the box?

is there a way to check?

Originally posted by webboy10169
Funny i dont ever remember having 43-1/2/3/4 with a signal. I know my E86 mapped 43-1/2 at one time but with no signal. Ive always had 52-1/2/3/4. Is it possible being im not having the problems other are having eg. mapping, day light savings time that i have a newer rev of the box?

is there a way to check?

I *believe* the current version is 5099??? You can go into your menu....of course, being at work, I'm at a loss for exactly WHERE it is :confused:

Maybe in installation? Setup? Something like that :p

BTW, as an aside---for anyone who's interested, Best Buy has a "50% off Open Box Directv receivers" ad in this week's circular. There is debate over on the "hardware" forum over whether or not they are honoring this OB special sale for HD receivers. I bought another E86 the other day---that was discounted to $249.99 since it was OB---with ALL accessories.....and the sales associate just took 50% off that $249.99 for the low low price of $124.99.:cool:

This way when I'm READY to get an HD set for my bedroom....It'll be go time! For now, I'll just keep both hooked up to my Toshiba 50hdx82 and I'll run the Composites to the other TV I have next to my hdx82----

I can't WAIT for Football to start!!! :D

My Samsung TS-160 switched from 43-1/2/3/4 to 52-1/2/3/4 about 2 or 3 weeks ago.

Will have to go searching for the new Philly channel 34.

Well rescanned and picked up 34-1/2 signal strength of an average 51% no picture on 34-2 though and i didn't get -3/4????

Also ive lost 12-1 WB?? does anyone still receive them?
maybe it wasnt wb maybe it was wyyhdt any way ive lost 12-1.

I've got my antenna pointed toward Philly, so 12-1 for me is WHYY.

Originally posted by Calabs
I've got my antenna pointed toward Philly, so 12-1 for me is WHYY.

Right 12-1 another PBS affiliate great

I also lost 17-1 thats the WB WPHLDT any info on them or must i just play with the antenna some more.

I really wish i could grab all the locals who the hell needs 7 PBS's

Originally posted by webboy10169
Well rescanned and picked up 34-1/2 signal strength of an average 51% no picture on 34-2 though and i didn't get -3/4????

Also ive lost 12-1 WB?? does anyone still receive them?
maybe it wasnt wb maybe it was wyyhdt any way ive lost 12-1.

AFA the "-1/-2/-3/-4" idea, I *believe* the E86 only pops it up if there's something on at the time. When I rescanned this AM, I had 64-2 (WPVI) but NOT 64-1...why? Damned if I know :confused:

But I DID have 6-1....but not 6-2...quirky eh?

It will be interesting to see "what's there" when I go home tonight. I'll try the 43-1/2/3/4 and see if anything comes up.

AFA 12-1--do you mean WB 11-1 out of NY? Or did you mean WB 17-1 out of Phily? My E86 showed 12-1 as WHYY PBS DT out of the Philly area I believe. I think the E86 scanned in SEVERAL NYC WB 11's on the oneline guide for those in the NYC area who were lucky enough to pick up the signal. That's pretty cool if you were able to get it. No WB 11 out of NYC for me...and no WHYY PBS for me either :mad:

Don't forget---USA will be broadcasting the Masters this afternoon and tomorrow in HD on channel 198 I believe for those of you with D*. I'm not a golf fan---but if I was home I'd probably watch HD golf for the beauty of it all!

Originally posted by jaypb
AFA the "-1/-2/-3/-4" idea, I *believe* the E86 only pops it up if there's something on at the time. When I rescanned this AM, I had 64-2 (WPVI) but NOT 64-1...why? Damned if I know :confused:

But I DID have 6-1....but not 6-2...quirky eh?

It will be interesting to see "what's there" when I go home tonight. I'll try the 43-1/2/3/4 and see if anything comes up.

AFA 12-1--do you mean WB 11-1 out of NY? Or did you mean WB 17-1 out of Phily? My E86 showed 12-1 as WHYY PBS DT out of the Philly area I believe. I think the E86 scanned in SEVERAL NYC WB 11's on the oneline guide for those in the NYC area who were lucky enough to pick up the signal. That's pretty cool if you were able to get it. No WB 11 out of NYC for me...and no WHYY PBS for me either :mad:

Don't forget---USA will be broadcasting the Masters this afternoon and tomorrow in HD on channel 198 I believe for those of you with D*. I'm not a golf fan---but if I was home I'd probably watch HD golf for the beauty of it all!

Yeah i meant WB out of philly 17-1 gone no longer there no biggie they have no programming anyway. Not interested in Smallville.
Not a golf fan either, like to play, cant stand to watch but of course ill get sucked in to HD sports on any channel. Isnt that the real purpose of HD anyway? I mean CSI looks great and all but sports is SO MUCH better.

I even got sucked in to Le Crosse on HDNET the wife wanted to know if i was feeling ok. All i could say was "would you look at that picture?!?"

Lets face it im a HD Sports junkie. I too can't wait for football. Not quite sure what ill do with my season tickets its quite a drive to Giant Stadium now.

Originally posted by webboy10169
Right 12-1 another PBS affiliate great

I also lost 17-1 thats the WB WPHLDT any info on them or must i just play with the antenna some more.

I really wish i could grab all the locals who the hell needs 7 PBS's

I had some MAJOR problems with 17-1 last night.....kept pixelating and signal was jumping all over the place. Normally I get this channel with great consistency at 60-65%. Damn that stratosphere!

Originally posted by Calabs
I had some MAJOR problems with 17-1 last night.....kept pixelating and signal was jumping all over the place. Normally I get this channel with great consistency at 60-65%. Damn that stratosphere!

I think there was a post on the Philly thread the other day about WHYY'S transmitter needed work on Monday---but weather may delay that. Somehow it *could* affect WPHL'S transmitter as well. Not sure if that was the issue, but it's a start. The post is at the top of Page 41 on the PHilly Thread:

Philly Thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2086563#post2086563)

34-1/2 coming in this morning with a strong 69% signal. No picture/sound on 34/2. But can't get 29-1 (or 12-1 or 10-1 for that matter).

Right now, I'm getting:
3-1
6-1/2
17-1
34-1/2
52-1/2/3/4
57-1
65-1/2

Seven total. Haven't climbed over 7 digitals yet.

Yes, I recall reading that part of the thread now. But I thought that WB and UPN were on a new tower, different from where WHYY was transmitting.

Well, April 14 looks like it could be a good day to watch those distant stations!

It looks like its just jaybp, weeboy and me that are carrying this thread. Keep those cards and letters coming!

Originally posted by Calabs
Yes, I recall reading that part of the thread now. But I thought that WB and UPN were on a new tower, different from where WHYY was transmitting.

Well, April 14 looks like it could be a good day to watch those distant stations!

It looks like its just jaybp, weeboy and me that are carrying this thread. Keep those cards and letters coming!

I didn't start lurking/posting on the Philly thread till about the end of February so I'm not *real* keen on towers and locations and such, but I did have a question earlier in the week that I'm curious to have answered.

Are you able to get WCAU-DT? Obviously you said you can get 17-1...whereas I can't. I've noticed that when antennaweb.org gives me my "potential channel" listings, the channels I can not receive (almost to a TEE!" ) are in the blue area....but I was always under the assumption that the Roxborough (SP??) antenna farm outside Philly was "in one spot" or at least close to being in one spot. My CM4228 is rated as a "fringe" antenna I believe and has a *listed* 60 mile ability. So, I'm pondering picking up a more powerful antenna---if there is one, as I'm not quite sure--to see if I can pick up WCAU. But, I go back to the fact that WCAU-DT is issue laden for those of us Central NJ'ers until they either up the power or get on a new tower (whatever TF the issue is).

Are you able to pick up WCAU-DT consistently? I'm not sure if I'm recalling correctly but are you using a Silver Sensor? I know EB isn't too far from where I am (Monroe)---but I'm starting to think I'm in *somewhat* of a valley compared to the surrounding area. Like I said, I'm pondering getting my CM 4228 up higher or trying out another antenna.

Originally posted by jaypb

Are you able to get WCAU-DT? Obviously you said you can get 17-1...whereas I can't. I've noticed that when antennaweb.org gives me my "potential channel" listings, the channels I can not receive (almost to a TEE!" ) are in the blue area....but I was always under the assumption that the Roxborough (SP??) antenna farm outside Philly was "in one spot" or at least close to being in one spot. My CM4228 is rated as a "fringe" antenna I believe and has a *listed* 60 mile ability. So, I'm pondering picking up a more powerful antenna---if there is one, as I'm not quite sure--to see if I can pick up WCAU. But, I go back to the fact that WCAU-DT is issue laden for those of us Central NJ'ers until they either up the power or get on a new tower (whatever TF the issue is).

Are you able to pick up WCAU-DT consistently? I'm not sure if I'm recalling correctly but are you using a Silver Sensor? I know EB isn't too far from where I am (Monroe)---but I'm starting to think I'm in *somewhat* of a valley compared to the surrounding area. Like I said, I'm pondering getting my CM 4228 up higher or trying out another antenna.

No, WCAU is only a "dream" for me. I've been able to pick it up maybe 2 or 3 times over a period of several months. My STB will map it, but signal strength is generally less than 10%. WCAU was supposed to be moving to a new tower late last year, but this has continuously been pushed back. With all the bad weather our area has been having doesn't make matters any better. When they DO move, they will be at a much higher elevation, and at full power (1 mW). We ALL should be able to get the signal at that point. It's hard to wait, I know, especially since I've seen Leno in HD. Simply maaaavolous!

My antenna is a Winegard (PR-9200 I believe) Yagi. I'm using Wingard AP-4800 preamp on a mast about 7 feet above my roof line. I know folks that are MUCH closer to the tower than us, and they still can't get WCAU. The location of the antenna (side of a building) and low power (~115 kW) all contribute to the lack of signal. Getting a bigger, better antenna won't help because there is not signal to pull in. You should also consider the ratings for antennas are nominal. There are SO MANY factors that can degrade the "nominal" rating of an antenna: Valley, large trees, towers around you house....and the list goes on. Since you have an outdoor antenna already, try a preamp if you don't already have one. This may help better reception on channels you can already get. And higher is usually always better. One other point worth noting about WCAU; it is channel 64 (I believe), and the higher you go up in UHF, the weaker the signal.

Originally posted by Calabs
No, WCAU is only a "dream" for me. I've been able to pick it up maybe 2 or 3 times over a period of several months. My STB will map it, but signal strength is generally less than 10%. WCAU was supposed to be moving to a new tower late last year, but this has continuously been pushed back. With all the bad weather our area has been having doesn't make matters any better. When they DO move, they will be at a much higher elevation, and at full power (1 mW). We ALL should be able to get the signal at that point. It's hard to wait, I know, especially since I've seen Leno in HD. Simply maaaavolous!

My antenna is a Winegard (PR-9200 I believe) Yagi. I'm using Wingard AP-4800 preamp on a mast about 7 feet above my roof line. I know folks that are MUCH closer to the tower than us, and they still can't get WCAU. The location of the antenna (side of a building) and low power (~115 kW) all contribute to the lack of signal. Getting a bigger, better antenna won't help because there is not signal to pull in. You should also consider the ratings for antennas are nominal. There are SO MANY factors that can degrade the "nominal" rating of an antenna: Valley, large trees, towers around you house....and the list goes on. Since you have an outdoor antenna already, try a preamp if you don't already have one. This may help better reception on channels you can already get. And higher is usually always better. One other point worth noting about WCAU; it is channel 64 (I believe), and the higher you go up in UHF, the weaker the signal.

I actually put a pre-amp up last month right before I added the rotor. I can now get WPVI out of Philly consistently and solid....other than the nights when they are having issues (I.e. The kind that appeared during the Atlantis Disney presentation on Sunday night).

(BTW WCAU is 67...WPVI is 64...so damn confusing...I know :D ) I thought about the signal loss idea AFA the higher up you go on the UHF foodchain...but like I said I can get 64 without a problem, I can get 65 and 66 digitally occasionally.....so it's just the WCAU issues. Glad to see someone else "in the neighborhood" is having issues as well :p

For me, it's difficult to bounce ideas back and forth ANYWHERE but here. No one else close by is playing the HD game. The one person I know (who I spurned to action BTW) who's getting HD is in Manhattan and gets his signal via TWC and doesn't "get" the idea of using an antenna to glean a pristine HD signal from dozens of miles away.

Simpletons.....:rolleyes:

Originally posted by jaypb
I actually put a pre-amp up last month right before I added the rotor. I can now get WPVI out of Philly consistently and solid....other than the nights when they are having issues (I.e. The kind that appeared during the Atlantis Disney presentation on Sunday night).

(BTW WCAU is 67...WPVI is 64...so damn confusing...I know :D ) I thought about the signal loss idea AFA the higher up you go on the UHF foodchain...but like I said I can get 64 without a problem, I can get 65 and 66 digitally occasionally.....so it's just the WCAU issues. Glad to see someone else "in the neighborhood" is having issues as well :p

For me, it's difficult to bounce ideas back and forth ANYWHERE but here. No one else close by is playing the HD game. The one person I know (who I spurned to action BTW) who's getting HD is in Manhattan and gets his signal via TWC and doesn't "get" the idea of using an antenna to glean a pristine HD signal from dozens of miles away.

Simpletons.....:rolleyes:

dreams over here too i'd really like to get nbc and fox for autoracing even if its not HD the streached picture i could do with out. Antenna, rotor and preamp are next for me.

Ive created a little chart that i could use help on filling in. It basically list channel info for our area. Could be of some help to others feel free to update and pass info back to me to keep updated. As like other im sure cant figure out what channel is what. Especially those like me who moved into NJ from NY and now have to deal with PA channel numbers too.

Originally posted by webboy10169
dreams over here too i'd really like to get nbc and fox for autoracing even if its not HD the streached picture i could do with out. Antenna, rotor and preamp are next for me.

Ive created a little chart that i could use help on filling in. It basically list channel info for our area. Could be of some help to others feel free to update and pass info back to me to keep updated. As like other im sure cant figure out what channel is what. Especially those like me who moved into NJ from NY and now have to deal with PA channel numbers too.

Hey webboy,

12-1 is WHYY from Philly; PBS affiliate; Channel 55
17-1 is WB WPHL; Channel 54
Channel 32 is UPN 57-1; WPSG

Originally posted by Calabs
Hey webboy,

12-1 is WHYY from Philly; PBS affiliate; Channel 55
17-1 is WB WPHL; Channel 54
Channel 32 is UPN 57-1; WPSG

Thanks!

Files updated if anyone wants it.
4:00 mmmm golf in HD looks good!

Channel 56 should be WCBS out of NYC: mapped 2-1

After reading this thread I ordered a MyHD card for my HTPC. In preperation for its arrival I went looking for a Silver Sensor antenna. Circuit City and Sears both did not have them. In fact the CC web site no longer lists it. I will try the CC in Woodbridge tomorrow. I would prefer to buy it locally in case it did not work out well I could return it.

Anyone else know where I can get one.


Thanks

Marty....

The Sears at the Rockaway Mall (off of Route 80 in Dover) had at least 6 of them about a month ago.

But that's not exactly local for you. MAybe your local Sears can have one transferred from the Rockaway Mall store.

Good luck.

jaypb.....

is your pm turned on??

Sent you a pm yesterday and hadn't heard anything back.

SteveK

Originally posted by SteveK2
jaypb.....

is your pm turned on??

Sent you a pm yesterday and hadn't heard anything back.

SteveK

Steve,

Just went into my PM and sent you a reply.

Get our yer reading glasses!
:cool:

Originally posted by MartyJ
After reading this thread I ordered a MyHD card for my HTPC. In preperation for its arrival I went looking for a Silver Sensor antenna. Circuit City and Sears both did not have them. In fact the CC web site no longer lists it. I will try the CC in Woodbridge tomorrow. I would prefer to buy it locally in case it did not work out well I could return it.

Anyone else know where I can get one.


Thanks

Got mine in the Freehold Sears they had a few on the shelf...

After striking out at Circuit City and Sears in Freehold, I got my Silver Sensor at Circuit City in Woodbridge. There were 6 on the shelf. Now waiting on MyHD card to arrive. Hopefully get it today so I can play over the weekend:D

Got everything up and running. Able to receive both CBS and Fox with the Silver Sensor sitting on the sub woffer. Cannot seem to get anything else but not bad for day 1. Added an old RS distribution amp and CBS is full scale with Fox 2/3 on MyHD card. Now just have to get the picture resolution and my projector to match up. Thanks to everyone here who inspired me to try getting my HDTV signal.

The next 3 evenings appear to be excellent times to check on Philly stations' signal propagation. I am already receiving a faint/fluctuating signal on 29-1 which will hopefully get better this evening and build in strength thru Wednesday evening.

Check this link:
Tropospheric Ducting Forecast (http://www.globalserve.net/~hepburnw/tropo.html)

Many thanks to dswallow for providing this link earlier in the thread!

Does anyone know of any antenna installers in north or central nj?

please provide if you know of any.

Originally posted by SteveK2
The next 3 evenings appear to be excellent times to check on Philly stations' signal propagation. I am already receiving a faint/fluctuating signal on 29-1 which will hopefully get better this evening and build in strength thru Wednesday evening.

Check this link:
Tropospheric Ducting Forecast (http://www.globalserve.net/~hepburnw/tropo.html)

Many thanks to dswallow for providing this link earlier in the thread!

Steve,

That was the FIRST thing I did this AM after I woke up! That chart/map is awesome. I too noticed 29-1 coming in last night....and WCAU out of Philly was up to a whopping 18 on my E86 signal strength meter!!!

Will be interesting to see if things do indeed build up to Wednesday.

Anyone else notice that there was NO (or least when I looked) HD loop over the weekend on either 34-2 or 52-xxx for some reason? I wanted to show off the PBS demo HD loop to some friends on Saturday and it wasn't there...same thing on Sunday.

Odd.

Originally posted by RAVEN56706
Does anyone know of any antenna installers in north or central nj?

please provide if you know of any.

When I was looking around (before I went the DIY route) I came across a place on Rte 18 in East Brunswick NJ called "Innovative Installations". I think that was the name. I'm at work so I don't have a phonebook. I'll look when I get home.

They only do installs....apparently they don't sell antennas to the DIY'er (the person I spoke to said they install Winegard systems).

jaypb


That's strange I saw the demo loop on Saturdau and Sunday on 52-2 once around 8 and I watched a little of at 10pm.

Originally posted by wward
jaypb


That's strange I saw the demo loop on Saturdau and Sunday on 52-2 once around 8 and I watched a little of at 10pm.

I checked briefly at around 9ish on Saturday and then again last night when I got home (9:30 pmish). I had programming on the standard def PBS channels (sub-channels) but no HD loop. I noticed the same thing for that new Philly PBS (34-1/2) as well.

Maybe I'll try a reboot of my E86 when I get home. I had no problem getting any other HD channels (locals or D*) so I'm perplexed.

Originally posted by jaypb
When I was looking around (before I went the DIY route) I came across a place on Rte 18 in East Brunswick NJ called "Innovative Installations". I think that was the name. I'm at work so I don't have a phonebook. I'll look when I get home.

They only do installs....apparently they don't sell antennas to the DIY'er (the person I spoke to said they install Winegard systems).

Thanks.... i would really appreciate it for that number.

Anyone else notice that there was NO (or least when I looked) HD loop over the weekend on either 34-2 or 52-xxx for some reason? I wanted to show off the PBS demo HD loop to some friends on Saturday and it wasn't there...same thing on Sunday.

jaypb....

i noticed nothing at all on 34-2, but didn't check 52-xxx at all.......was too busy watching the Masters on KYW 3-1 on Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Quite an impressive broadcast. I'll bet that would have gotten some oohs and ahhs out of anyone you were trying to impress with the PBS HD loop.

Originally posted by SteveK2
jaypb....

i noticed nothing at all on 34-2, but didn't check 52-xxx at all.......was too busy watching the Masters on KYW 3-1 on Friday, Saturday, Sunday. Quite an impressive broadcast. I'll bet that would have gotten some oohs and ahhs out of anyone you were trying to impress with the PBS HD loop.

Steve,

You beat me to the punch ! :D

I just checked the PBS loops again (at least the ones I can get a signal on) WYBE and WNJT (52 or 43) and NO PBS loops tonight? Even Titantv.com only lists PBS loops for 12 and/or13.

No signal improvement on WXTF-DT or WCAU-DT tonight...yet. Tropo come on!!!!

AFA the Masters---I only watched a little bit on Saturday in the afternoon...of course NO one was here then :mad:

And I wasn't home all day Sunday.....but, Barry Manilow looked great on HdNet last night :eek:

:p

Originally posted by RAVEN56706
Thanks.... i would really appreciate it for that number.

Raven,

THe name of the place is Installation Innovations. On Rte 18 in East Brunswick NJ.

Phone#:732-545-2772

Wish I could tell you who I spoke to....but I didn't get a name.

Sorry :(

Good luck!

Hey wait a minute....disregard my previous mention of NO HD LOOPS on WNJTDT (53-2)....TitanTV lists an "Armageddon" HD show or something like that as being on....but I ain't seeing anything but a black screen on my TV now.

I'm going to head back downstairs and see if anything is on now at 110pm when it says the HD loop should be on.

Originally posted by jaypb
Steve,

No signal improvement on WXTF-DT or WCAU-DT tonight...yet. Tropo come on!!!!



WCAU was up a little bit last night (and early this morning (a whopping 15-20%). WXTF-DT was actually watchable this moring at ~35-40% signal. The Tropo is supposed to get stronger today and tomorrow. Interested to see if WCAU becomes watchable then. :(

They said they wouldnt go to hudson county. Plus they dont do antenna installations. Does anyone know of any Northeastern NJ antenna installation?

Anyone picking up any additional channels/signal strength out of the South tonight?

I'm not getting WCAU yet nor am I picking up an increase in WPHL or WTXF's signal strength.

Wonder if tomorrow's quality tropo conditions are negated by the impending storm coming in for late Wednesday/Thursday????

No dice.....just checked 29-1....its pretty much at 0%....occasionally flickers up to 20%, but right back down again to 0%.

All other signals still at typical strength.

There's always tomorrow........plus.....I'll be moving my attic antenna to be just inside the southwest-facing wall. Hope to be able to cut down on some multipath and hopefully get better results on the distant stations.

Originally posted by SteveK2
No dice.....just checked 29-1....its pretty much at 0%....occasionally flickers up to 20%, but right back down again to 0%.

All other signals still at typical strength.

There's always tomorrow........plus.....I'll be moving my attic antenna to be just inside the southwest-facing wall. Hope to be able to cut down on some multipath and hopefully get better results on the distant stations.

Anyone else out there who can get PBS out of Trenton(?) (43-1 or 53-1/2/3/4) notice pixelation/blocks of artifacts on the HD loop or even the SD subchannels even when their signal strength is strong??? Or my case....my signal strength on my E86 is 100 or even 90's....and I've noticed....only SOMETIMES....that I have this digital pixelation/green shmearing....and I'm wondering if it's Multipath....OR is anyone else experiencing this at the same time? I was watching 53-2 the subchannel HD loop and noticed it pretty much ALL NIGHT. Same goes for the SD subchannels. I had noticed it about a month ago....but it disappeared....and now it's back again.

Also---anyone able to get 34-1 or 2 tonight? I had ZERO signal strength....odd because I usually have it drop down to about 55 or so...but not zero!

Just checked WCBS-DT no siganl at all it looks like its off the air

Also---anyone able to get 34-1 or 2 tonight? I had ZERO signal strength....odd because I usually have it drop down to about 55 or so...but not zero!


jaypb...yes....i had 34-1 about the same time as my earlier post. 34-2 was blank....both had signals ~36% which is where its been for the past week or so.

regarding the 52-1/2/3/4 pixelization.....yes, i've seen this occur on some evenings (not all) even when signal strength is @100%. I am concerned that its from mulipathing. When I go to channel 50 (analog), it get a very bad, ghosty picture that tears horizontally. Channel 50 OTOH, is very nice, albeit a bit snowy.

Originally posted by jaypb
Anyone picking up any additional channels/signal strength out of the South tonight?

I'm not getting WCAU yet nor am I picking up an increase in WPHL or WTXF's signal strength.

Wonder if tomorrow's quality tropo conditions are negated by the impending storm coming in for late Wednesday/Thursday????


Same here on WCAU. Nada, niente, nichts! ;) I'm beginning to thing that this Tropo is not all it's cracked up to be. Besides, we should be getting these signals EVERY DAY, and not only when the moon, sun, stars, and every other astronomical event occurs at the same time. :mad: Sorry, you caught in a "Venting" mood. Is it too much to ask for FOX and NBC with a reasonable signal all the time? Now where did I put that phone number for the engineering dept. of WCAU???

Tropo doing its thing this morning!

29-1 is a solid 20% and the picture is mostly watchable....occasional breakups.

6-1 is up to 69%.

Re-scan just finished and I was hoping for another digital channel or two.....still got a total of 8....but here's a surprise.....29-1 didn't get picked up in the scan (was watching it 15 minutes ago from a previous scan).....but now, I am getting a channel I've never seen before 16-1.

Its registering a solid 69% (where did this comes from?). It appears to be a CBS affiliate. Will watch for a short while to see if I can get any local info.

More later.....

OK...just watched before/after top of the hour.....16-1 is WBOC "serving the Delmarva peninsula". So its either out of Dover DE, or Salisbury MD. But while watching....the signal deteriorated before my eyes....alll the way down to 0.....but bounced up to a useable signal a couple of minutes later.

This should be an interesting day/evening for OTA!

Originally posted by SteveK2
Tropo doing its thing this morning!

29-1 is a solid 20% and the picture is mostly watchable....occasional breakups.

6-1 is up to 69%.

Re-scan just finished and I was hoping for another digital channel or two.....still got a total of 8....but here's a surprise.....29-1 didn't get picked up in the scan (was watching it 15 minutes ago from a previous scan).....but now, I am getting a channel I've never seen before 16-1.

Its registering a solid 69% (where did this comes from?). It appears to be a CBS affiliate. Will watch for a short while to see if I can get any local info.

More later.....

OK...just watched before/after top of the hour.....16-1 is WBOC "serving the Delmarva peninsula". So its either out of Dover DE, or Salisbury MD. But while watching....the signal deteriorated before my eyes....alll the way down to 0.....but bounced up to a useable signal a couple of minutes later.

This should be an interesting day/evening for OTA!

I checked this AM before I left for work...and 17-1 was *almost* watchable and 10-1 had a signal strength of 18...ergo, I imagine by tonight, if conditions continue, it'll be watchable....but, alas, I won't be home tonight...so a tropo night is wasted :(

But, I *AM* going to try and hook up the E86 I picked up at BB open box last week at my Parents house in Staten Island tonight and see if I can convince my father to "join the HD" generation :D

He's got a 57" Toshiba HD82....so he's *almost* there...I've just got to put the finish picture in front of him and let him SEE it for himself...hopefully tonight. I'm going to TRY and use a Zenith SS that I picked up at buy.com for $25.00 and hopefully I can get CBS out of NYC and FOX...and, if I'm lucky, WPIX....and Maybe, just maybe a little tropo from the South will let some PHilly signals make their way up to SI.

My parents live in a 2 story house on the South Shore of SI so *maybe* they'll be able to pick up Philly. I know that when I lived at home I used to pick up Sixers/Phillies games with a good ol' UHF loop antenna sometimes at night....so, we'll see :)

Originally posted by jaypb
I checked this AM before I left for work...and 17-1 was *almost* watchable and 10-1 had a signal strength of 18...ergo, I imagine by tonight, if conditions continue, it'll be watchable....but, alas, I won't be home tonight...so a tropo night is wasted :(

But, I *AM* going to try and hook up the E86 I picked up at BB open box last week at my Parents house in Staten Island tonight and see if I can convince my father to "join the HD" generation :D

He's got a 57" Toshiba HD82....so he's *almost* there...I've just got to put the finish picture in front of him and let him SEE it for himself...hopefully tonight. I'm going to TRY and use a Zenith SS that I picked up at buy.com for $25.00 and hopefully I can get CBS out of NYC and FOX...and, if I'm lucky, WPIX....and Maybe, just maybe a little tropo from the South will let some PHilly signals make their way up to SI.

My parents live in a 2 story house on the South Shore of SI so *maybe* they'll be able to pick up Philly. I know that when I lived at home I used to pick up Sixers/Phillies games with a good ol' UHF loop antenna sometimes at night....so, we'll see :)

Not much has changed for me over here in Jackson NJ. Replacement of the Silver Sensor did produce some good results but didnt help tune in anything else. PBS for me comes and goes and at times even drops off the E86 completely. No NBC as of yet. But i did punch a philly zipcode as a secondary into the E86 and its now showing channels that no one seems to talk about. Brobally because we cant get them but its interesting to see.

South Shore if SI huh I just moved from there in December. Tottenville to be exact. Could it be we know each other...

Hopefully the hills on Staten Island (Todt Hill??) won't interfere with line-of-sight transmission from ESB for WCBS, FOX5.

I'm originally from Bayonne......won't get into the Staten Island memories....but those Saturday nights @ South Beach parking lots......ooooh:cool:

BTW....WBOC is now a solid 0%...probably gone until sundown.

Originally posted by webboy10169
Not much has changed for me over here in Jackson NJ. Replacement of the Silver Sensor did produce some good results but didnt help tune in anything else. PBS for me comes and goes and at times even drops off the E86 completely. No NBC as of yet. But i did punch a philly zipcode as a secondary into the E86 and its now showing channels that no one seems to talk about. Brobally because we cant get them but its interesting to see.

South Shore if SI huh I just moved from there in December. Tottenville to be exact. Could it be we know each other...

The cool thing about the E86 is that you can PUT that 2nd zipcode in. I did that the 3rd or 4th night I had it and it opened up a BOATLOAD of additional analogs from around the horizon! Most are useless, but on some night cool ones come in.

Try www.titantv.com and put in your "stuff" and you'll see all the digitals, analogs and satellite channels listed for your area/setup. I love that site. Check it 2 or 3 times a day. they also have a tab at the top for "stations coming soon" or something like that.

What did you put up in place of the Silver Sensor??

Damn Staten Islanders are EVERYWHERE huh??? ;)

Tottenville boy eh? Born and raised? I'm from Hugenot. Did ya play any baseball?? I'll send you a PM.

Originally posted by wward
Just checked WCBS-DT no siganl at all it looks like its off the air

Hmmm....I thought I saw it there last night when I checked after 10 pm or so.

Did you ever find it again?

Anyone?

Originally posted by SteveK2
jaypb...yes....i had 34-1 about the same time as my earlier post. 34-2 was blank....both had signals ~36% which is where its been for the past week or so.

regarding the 52-1/2/3/4 pixelization.....yes, i've seen this occur on some evenings (not all) even when signal strength is @100%. I am concerned that its from mulipathing. When I go to channel 50 (analog), it get a very bad, ghosty picture that tears horizontally. Channel 50 OTOH, is very nice, albeit a bit snowy.

I actually was tooling around using the rotor and I didn't GET A BLIP on 34-1/2. For most of the evening when I was fiddling.

Odd.

AFA the issues with 52-1/2/3/4...glad to see I'm not the only one :p

AFA the poor analog 50----I can't really tell about that on my setup because DirecTV channel 50 is ...channel 50! So when I hit "50" it goes to the D* channel. I DO have HORRENDOUS interference on 50-1/2 DT. By interference I'm talking about that electrical type interference I mentioned earlier in this giant thread to Entrophy512---almost looks like a hairdryer. He mentioned to try using ferrite (SP???) attachments on any wiring in the area...but I haven't really done that. I will say that this interference started after I hooked up the CM7775 pre-amp.

Multipath is an odd thing isn't it....but it's weird that we're in two TOTALLY different directions...and we're seeing the same "symptoms"/issues.

Anyone see anything strange on that PBS-DT station?

Originally posted by jaypb
The cool thing about the E86 is that you can PUT that 2nd zipcode in. I did that the 3rd or 4th night I had it and it opened up a BOATLOAD of additional analogs from around the horizon! Most are useless, but on some night cool ones come in.

Try www.titantv.com and put in your "stuff" and you'll see all the digitals, analogs and satellite channels listed for your area/setup. I love that site. Check it 2 or 3 times a day. they also have a tab at the top for "stations coming soon" or something like that.

What did you put up in place of the Silver Sensor??

Damn Staten Islanders are EVERYWHERE huh??? ;)

Tottenville boy eh? Born and raised? I'm from Hugenot. Did ya play any baseball?? I'll send you a PM.

Yeah titantv is my homepage on the laptop in the family room.

The Silver Sensor is raised up about 3 feet off the floor behind my panny (havent hung it on the wall yet :( ) its pointing somewhere between 280 to 300 degrees on the compass. great sdignal lock on cbs,abc,upn, and some pbs's wb still seems to be sporatic along with upn.

roof top antenna is next no doubt.

played little league and some high school B-ball but a car accident took away my college play too bad i was good at both...

Originally posted by Calabs
Same here on WCAU. Nada, niente, nichts! ;) I'm beginning to thing that this Tropo is not all it's cracked up to be. Besides, we should be getting these signals EVERY DAY, and not only when the moon, sun, stars, and every other astronomical event occurs at the same time. :mad: Sorry, you caught in a "Venting" mood. Is it too much to ask for FOX and NBC with a reasonable signal all the time? Now where did I put that phone number for the engineering dept. of WCAU???

The NBC out of Philly is my BIGGEST gripe as well.....Fox to a lesser degree.

It would be nice to "show off" my system to friends/family with the popular shows that NBC has on in HD but I can't.

CBS wins that honor HANDS down. A PLETHORA of HD programming on that network...and ABC to a lesser degree. I can honestly say I now watch almost ALL of CBS's HD programming....where before I NEVER would have.

Wonder if these broadcasters realize that...or am I the ONLY one who has had that type of a turnaround with my viewing habits???

Originally posted by RAVEN56706
Does anyone know of any antenna installers in north or central nj?

please provide if you know of any.

Sky Web,Inc.
Bldg#3 Sheila Dr.
Tinton Falls,NJ 07724
greg@skydigital.com
Tel# 732-219-7776

I spoke with him yesterday he said Jersey city is in his area of installs so give him a call. But i believe he will be out of the office foe a few days. Hope this helps.

Let him know Tony from Jackson reccommended you to him maybe he'll do good for ya...

Originally posted by jaypb
The NBC out of Philly is my BIGGEST gripe as well.....Fox to a lesser degree.

It would be nice to "show off" my system to friends/family with the popular shows that NBC has on in HD but I can't.

CBS wins that honor HANDS down. A PLETHORA of HD programming on that network...and ABC to a lesser degree. I can honestly say I now watch almost ALL of CBS's HD programming....where before I NEVER would have.

Wonder if these broadcasters realize that...or am I the ONLY one who has had that type of a turnaround with my viewing habits???

Nope you not alone I watch CSI on CBS but now thats there's HD Im watching all of CBS's HD programming. although Jag really does suck.

Originally posted by SteveK2
Tropo doing its thing this morning!

29-1 is a solid 20% and the picture is mostly watchable....occasional breakups.

6-1 is up to 69%.

Re-scan just finished and I was hoping for another digital channel or two.....still got a total of 8....but here's a surprise.....29-1 didn't get picked up in the scan (was watching it 15 minutes ago from a previous scan).....but now, I am getting a channel I've never seen before 16-1.

Its registering a solid 69% (where did this comes from?). It appears to be a CBS affiliate. Will watch for a short while to see if I can get any local info.

More later.....

OK...just watched before/after top of the hour.....16-1 is WBOC "serving the Delmarva peninsula". So its either out of Dover DE, or Salisbury MD. But while watching....the signal deteriorated before my eyes....alll the way down to 0.....but bounced up to a useable signal a couple of minutes later.

This should be an interesting day/evening for OTA!

That's pretty cool. I wonder if they are supposed to have a jump....and then a precipitous drop in temps like we will. If you check the tropo threads on this forum, you'll see there are some people who get distant analogs/digitals from hundreds of miles away. THAT is awesome. I always got a kick out of watching newscasts from somewhere else. Hell, last night I watched a Korean newscast for the hell of it on WYBE...they had on Korean Baseball League game highlights...that was a hoot! They all seem to swing like Ichiro :rolleyes:

Originally posted by SteveK2
Hopefully the hills on Staten Island (Todt Hill??) won't interfere with line-of-sight transmission from ESB for WCBS, FOX5.

I'm originally from Bayonne......won't get into the Staten Island memories....but those Saturday nights @ South Beach parking lots......ooooh:cool:

BTW....WBOC is now a solid 0%...probably gone until sundown.

I was wondering myself about the Todt Hill affect....Hopefully it won't be an issue, but I"m sure it's in the "path" as the crow flies from the ESB to their location.

We'll see.

South Beach----ahhh, the memories....:eek:

Originally posted by webboy10169
Nope you not alone I watch CSI on CBS but now thats there's HD Im watching all of CBS's HD programming. although Jag really does suck.

We actually find ourselves watching CBS's Monday night lineup from 8 to 11pm. My wife was a fan of CSI from the beginning---but now that I put up the CM4228 I'm a fan as well.

Haven't sat down for "JAG" as of yet....but I'm sure I will.

Same goes for that CBS show "Without a Trace".

And AFA ABC goes, I've even started watching a little bit of "Dragnet" :eek:
And the Sunday Night Disney movies ROOL in my house---My kids will actually and sit and watch TV with us.....excepting those lovely 4:3 commercials of course, Sunday night is a pretty good night on ABC.

The PBS loops are watched ad nausem in my house as well.

I'm sure whenever WCAU comes back on (or WNBC-DT for that matter) we'll plop our fannies in front of the TV to watch those HD shows as well.

My wife even watches "24" religiously now in FAUX Widescreen. It ain't HD but it's *somewhat* prettier than SD :p

Nothing positive to report......tonight overall signal quality is *poorer* than most nights. Tropo forecast didn't exactly bring any viewing benefits.

:(

Remember the maps only indicate where conditions might be good for troposphereic ducting. It might not actually happen.

Originally posted by dswallow
Remember the maps only indicate where conditions might be good for troposphereic ducting. It might not actually happen.

Sounds kind of like.....conception....;)

Conditions have to be...just right for things to happen:p

I was in Staten Island last night and hooked up my extra E86 with a Silver Sensor and was able to get WCBS-DT and Fox-Dt out of NYC and PBS_DT out of Trenton (43/52) but not much else.

I did get a blip on my signal meter from KYW-DT out of Philly but not much else.

It figures....on a night where I'm trying to sell my father on getting a HD receiver, there's NOTHING on in HD to convince him....:mad:

But I did make my mother stay up so I could show her the PBS HD loop out of Trenton at 11pm----and interestingly enough, the SAME pixelation/green shmearing was on the screen that I see at my house...on my E86...with my CM4228... almost 20 miles away.

Ergo, I've starting to think it's PBS's transmission that is an issue...or the multipath (or whatever the term is) is a result of something around their tower as opposed to my/our (???) houses????

Thoughts?

quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Originally posted by dswallow
Remember the maps only indicate where conditions might be good for troposphereic ducting. It might not actually happen.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sounds kind of like.....conception....

....actually....sounds more like a weather forecast for overnight snow....then waking up the next morning and finding no snow and realizing you have to go to school (or work).:p

No big problem....just some disappointment.

But with the summer solstice approaching, I'm sure there will be plenty of other good opportunities. If some materialize, then that's gravy!

Originally posted by SteveK2

....actually....sounds more like a weather forecast for overnight snow....then waking up the next morning and finding no snow and realizing you have to go to school (or work).:p

No big problem....just some disappointment.

But with the summer solstice approaching, I'm sure there will be plenty of other good opportunities. If some materialize, then that's gravy! [/B]

You mean...like waking up today....realizing all your friends and family are off....andYOU have to go to work??? :rolleyes:

Hope this is helpful:

Samsung SIR T150
UHF Antennas in attic facing 42 degrees for NY stations, 243 deg. for Phila:

DT station reception:

CBS 2 NYC
CBS 3 Phila
Fox 5-1 NYC
UPN 5-2 NYC
ABC 6-1,2 Phila
17-1 Phila
34 PBS Phila
52-1,2,3,4 NJN
57-1 Phila
66-1,2 Spanish

Would like to get NBC and a 'top line PBS' station, either 12 Phila or 13 NYC.

Originally posted by bobsterner
Hope this is helpful:

Samsung SIR T150
UHF Antennas in attic facing 42 degrees for NY stations, 243 deg. for Phila:

DT station reception:

CBS 2 NYC
CBS 3 Phila
Fox 5-1 NYC
UPN 5-2 NYC
ABC 6-1,2 Phila
17-1 Phila
34 PBS Phila
52-1,2,3,4 NJN
57-1 Phila
66-1,2 Spanish

Would like to get NBC and a 'top line PBS' station, either 12 Phila or 13 NYC.

You've got yourself a pretty good collection of stations there Bob! Steve (whose posts you can see by scrolling through this (now) large thread is up in Somerset too. Are you able to get WCAU NBC out of Philly, because most of us are not able to....other than those nights when the moon, sun, stars and OPEC are in TOTAL alignment :p

AFA getting a "top line" PBS station, I'm not able to get WHYY out of Philly either...nor 13 either. 52 PBS is good enough for me....until 13 boosts their power.

I'm not able to get 17-1 WB consistently....or much at all for that matter over the last few months. Fox out of Philly seems to come and go.

Once NBC out of Philly boosts their power.....{which seems like a pipedream} or NBC in NYC gets their transmitter fired up, I'll be content.

What kind of antenna are you using? Pre-amp?

Originally posted by bobsterner
Hope this is helpful:

Samsung SIR T150
UHF Antennas in attic facing 42 degrees for NY stations, 243 deg. for Phila:

DT station reception:

CBS 2 NYC
CBS 3 Phila
Fox 5-1 NYC
UPN 5-2 NYC
ABC 6-1,2 Phila
17-1 Phila
34 PBS Phila
52-1,2,3,4 NJN
57-1 Phila
66-1,2 Spanish

Would like to get NBC and a 'top line PBS' station, either 12 Phila or 13 NYC.

You've got yourself a pretty good collection of stations there Bob! Steve (whose posts you can see by scrolling through this (now) large thread is up in Somerset too. Are you able to get WCAU NBC out of Philly, because most of us are not able to....other than those nights when the moon, sun, stars and OPEC are in TOTAL alignment :p

AFA getting a "top line" PBS station, I'm not able to get WHYY out of Philly either...nor 13 either. 52 PBS is good enough for me....until 13 boosts their power.

I'm not able to get 17-1 WB consistently....or much at all for that matter over the last few months. Fox out of Philly seems to come and go.

Once NBC out of Philly boosts their power.....{which seems like a pipedream} or NBC in NYC gets their transmitter fired up, I'll be content.

What kind of antenna are you using? Pre-amp?

Originally posted by bobsterner
Hope this is helpful:

Samsung SIR T150
UHF Antennas in attic facing 42 degrees for NY stations, 243 deg. for Phila:

DT station reception:

CBS 2 NYC
CBS 3 Phila
Fox 5-1 NYC
UPN 5-2 NYC
ABC 6-1,2 Phila
17-1 Phila
34 PBS Phila
52-1,2,3,4 NJN
57-1 Phila
66-1,2 Spanish

Would like to get NBC and a 'top line PBS' station, either 12 Phila or 13 NYC.

You've got yourself a pretty good collection of stations there Bob! Steve (whose posts you can see by scrolling through this (now) large thread is up in Somerset too. Are you able to get WCAU NBC out of Philly, because most of us are not able to....other than those nights when the moon, sun, stars and OPEC are in TOTAL alignment :p

AFA getting a "top line" PBS station, I'm not able to get WHYY out of Philly either...nor 13 either. 52 PBS is good enough for me....until 13 boosts their power.

I'm not able to get 17-1 WB consistently....or much at all for that matter over the last few months. Fox out of Philly seems to come and go.

Once NBC out of Philly boosts their power.....{which seems like a pipedream} or NBC in NYC gets their transmitter fired up, I'll be content.

What kind of antenna are you using? Pre-amp?

You mean...like waking up today....realizing all your friends and family are off....andYOU have to go to work???

Exactly!!

BTW...is the triple-post your way of venting your frustration for having to go to work today? :) Just kidding......

bobsterner...

those channels are pretty standard fare for this part of the state. i didn't see any point in investing additional $$$ in either a rotor or second antenna just to be able to pick up NYC's 2 entries in HDTV (2-1, 5-1 for the moment). 5-2 is pretty awful. The Philly version of UPN comes (17-1) comes in with a much better PQ. Whenever more NYC digital come online with decent signals/content, I'll just swing the antenna in that direction.

AFA a 'top line' PBS station.....I can receive analog 12 WHYY, but not its digital equivalent (yet). I know the 13 in NYC deviates at times (sometimes quite a bit) from the national PBS feed so I have no interest in receiving it all. NJN does just fine and has NJ-focused stuff. Unlike 13 in NYC that uses a New Jersey registration address then doesn't do squat for NJ. Anyway, I get all the NY locals via satellite so I can watch them if I really want to.

Where r u located in town and what's your antenna set-up?

There's an abundance of public television stations in NJ. Overabundance, I mean. I've never seen so many. I find it rather annoying myself. And generally it seems every one that goes digital is broadcasting 4 subchannels. Jeez... I guess someone didn't think that many stations was enough, huh?!

Of course, if we didn't have those frequencies locked up like that for public television, we'd have 30 more spanish broadcast stations (or maybe I should say Telemundo/Univision repeaters), so it's not like complaining would do me any good. :)

Oooh... my thoughts just combined into a question... I don't suppose any of those programs on NJ public television actually try to teach people English do they? Now there's a public service I could support. :D

Originally posted by SteveK2
Exactly!!

BTW...is the triple-post your way of venting your frustration for having to go to work today? :) Just kidding......

You know, I didn't even realize I did that until I checked the thread. I had a computer issue....every time I tried to send my post I got the dreaded "TIMED OUT" message on my screen. So, I hit backspace and re-sent the post....3 times before it went through (or so I thought)...then I pop back on and see it was posted 3 times.

Damned technology......

I do wish I was home....watching TV today though :p

I'd like to give "The Young And The Restless" in HD a shot :D

Originally posted by dswallow
There's an abundance of public television stations in NJ. Overabundance, I mean. I've never seen so many. I find it rather annoying myself. And generally it seems every one that goes digital is broadcasting 4 subchannels. Jeez... I guess someone didn't think that many stations was enough, huh?!

I do wish that PBS 52 (Trenton) had a similar HD subchannel to the one that WHYY55 and WNET 13 seems to transmit....meaning if you look on titantv.com you'll see that HYY and NET's HD loops/HD subchannels seem to have a variety of HD programming vs's 52 or even WYBE 34 out of Philly. Any reason why???

Of course, if we didn't have those frequencies locked up like that for public television, we'd have 30 more spanish broadcast stations (or maybe I should say Telemundo/Univision repeaters), so it's not like complaining would do me any good. :)

Oooh... my thoughts just combined into a question... I don't suppose any of those programs on NJ public television actually try to teach people English do they? Now there's a public service I could support. :D

I do find it *somewhat* ironic that 65/66 Digitally comes in and I'm able to view it...and it's such an inconsequential blip on my viewing radar, yet WCAU and WTXF and WPHL (real networks) and WNET aren't viewable unless a lunar eclipse is in effect :mad:

Hopefully it all works itself out in the near future....hopefully.:confused:

Originally posted by jaypb
I do wish that PBS 52 (Trenton) had a similar HD subchannel to the one that WHYY55 and WNET 13 seems to transmit....meaning if you look on titantv.com you'll see that HYY and NET's HD loops/HD subchannels seem to have a variety of HD programming vs's 52 or even WYBE 34 out of Philly. Any reason why???

I never paid it much attention except the first few days I had everything hooked up and before I got the ExpressVu equipment installed; just noticed it was often but not always the HD loop on 52-2 or 43-2 or whatever virtual ID they picked for the week.

Originally posted by dswallow
I never paid it much attention except the first few days I had everything hooked up and before I got the ExpressVu equipment installed; just noticed it was often but not always the HD loop on 52-2 or 43-2 or whatever virtual ID they picked for the week.

Virtual ID's is a cumbersome thing is it not? :eek:

Just last night I noticed a "44-1" channel listing on the one line guide on my E86. 44 is the UHF channel for WNYW-DT (Fox 5)....but 5-1 was still listed in the one line guide....same goes for ABC out of PHilly last night (6-1/2 and 64-1/2).

Those are PSIP issues right???

If I could turn off virtual ID's and use real tuned channel numbers, I would in a heartbeat... maybe even faster.

Hope this is helpful:

Samsung SIR T150
UHF Antennas in attic facing 42 degrees for NY stations, 243 deg. for Phila:

DT station reception:

CBS 2 NYC
CBS 3 Phila
Fox 5-1 NYC
UPN 5-2 NYC
ABC 6-1,2 Phila
17-1 Phila
34 PBS Phila
52-1,2,3,4 NJN
57-1 Phila
66-1,2 Spanish

Would like to get NBC and a 'top line PBS' station, either 12 Phila or 13 NYC.

Originally posted by SteveK2
bobsterner...

those channels are pretty standard fare for this part of the state. i didn't see any point in investing additional $$$ in either a rotor or second antenna just to be able to pick up NYC's 2 entries in HDTV (2-1, 5-1 for the moment). 5-2 is pretty awful. The Philly version of UPN comes (17-1) comes in with a much better PQ. Whenever more NYC digital come online with decent signals/content, I'll just swing the antenna in that direction.

AFA a 'top line' PBS station.....I can receive analog 12 WHYY, but not its digital equivalent (yet). I know the 13 in NYC deviates at times (sometimes quite a bit) from the national PBS feed so I have no interest in receiving it all. NJN does just fine and has NJ-focused stuff. Unlike 13 in NYC that uses a New Jersey registration address then doesn't do squat for NJ. Anyway, I get all the NY locals via satellite so I can watch them if I really want to.

Where r u located in town and what's your antenna set-up?

I'm located on New Brunswick Road, between Demott and JFK Blvd.

Bob -
I'm located about 1 mile from you. My channel 17 is usually a 40 signal strength but jumps between 28 and 49 quite often.

How is yours?

...and what kind of antenna(s), pre-amps, etc.???

Finally got a chance to move my Silver Sensor from the top of the sub woofer to the attic tonight. I use an old Radio Shack distribution amp right after the antenna then feed the signal to a MyHD card in my HTPC.

I previously could only receive signals from the ESB CBS and Fox/UPN.
I turned the antenna toward Philadelphia and now can get KYW, WPSG, WYBE and WPVI along with WNJT in Trenton. I can lock all the signals.

I still get WCBS and Fox off the back of the antenna from NYC. The signals off the the back are only in the 20's so sometimes I cannot lock the signal. I did not play around too much as I was more intent on watching some new HD content. Even brought my wife into the room for here first HD show which was the WNJT HD Demo loop.

Hopefully I will have some more time next week to try and tweak this so I can get both Philly and NY stations with just the silver sensor.

Thanks to everyone in this thread that motivated me to get HD going in my theater.

Originally posted by MartyJ
Finally got a chance to move my Silver Sensor from the top of the sub woofer to the attic tonight. I use an old Radio Shack distribution amp right after the antenna then feed the signal to a MyHD card in my HTPC.

I previously could only receive signals from the ESB CBS and Fox/UPN.
I turned the antenna toward Philadelphia and now can get KYW, WPSG, WYBE and WPVI along with WNJT in Trenton. I can lock all the signals.

I still get WCBS and Fox off the back of the antenna from NYC. The signals off the the back are only in the 20's so sometimes I cannot lock the signal. I did not play around too much as I was more intent on watching some new HD content. Even brought my wife into the room for here first HD show which was the WNJT HD Demo loop.

Hopefully I will have some more time next week to try and tweak this so I can get both Philly and NY stations with just the silver sensor.

Thanks to everyone in this thread that motivated me to get HD going in my theater.

Glad to see things have improved for you.

I noticed last night, that I literally had no signal for WPVI (6-1) at all. I didn't want to watch anything so I didn't bother using my rotor to move the antenna since ALL the rest of my normal DT channels were coming in (KYW/WNJN/WPSG/The 65 or 66 Spanish station).

Then, this AM I go down and fiddle with the rotor and voila WPVI comes in after a slight adjustment at 100%! Very odd. I'm usually NEVER that high. Same thing for WYBE---100%!! I've had *issues* the last few weeks locking onto WYBE. And, to boot, I'm getting WTXF at 100% as of this AM...and WCAU-DT was at 18 on my meter.

I thought maybe it was a tropo thing, but according to the forecast (http://www.globalserve.net/~hepburnw/tropo.html) I'm not quite sure WHAT happened :confused:

Either way I can't complain...really :D

Other than the fact that there is NO NBC available from either Philly or NYC for me (what with the Triple Crown coming up---in HD I might add) and I can't get WPIX from NYC or Channel 13-DT for the HD loops that seem to run non stop, everything is STILL status quo.

BTW---for you D* viewers out there, there's a post over on the Programming forum (and on this one too) that details and "inside source" who says that D* is going to roll out a $10.00 a month package for ESPNHD, HDNET, HDNET movies and I believe it was DiscoveryHD.

I'm in if it's true :cool:

Originally posted by jaypb

BTW---for you D* viewers out there, there's a post over on the Programming forum (and on this one too) that details and "inside source" who says that D* is going to roll out a $10.00 a month package for ESPNHD, HDNET, HDNET movies and I believe it was DiscoveryHD.

I'm in if it's true :cool:

I thought that HDNET was already FREE from D*! I really disagree with this tier pricing for HD content. It just really rubs me the wrong way. :mad: DiscoveryHD is already offered by E*. Anyone know if they charge extra to get it?

Last night I could not lock onto Fox out of Philly. This morning no problem. I will have to improve my antenna. I need more signal strength for more reliable viewing.

I am thinking with the improvement with a ChannelMaster 4228 in the attic I should be able to get much improved signal strength and still get NYC off the back side of the antenna.

I don't want a rotor becasue as soon as get one everything will come online from NYC :-)

Originally posted by MartyJ
Last night I could not lock onto Fox out of Philly. This morning no problem. I will have to improve my antenna. I need more signal strength for more reliable viewing.

I am thinking with the improvement with a ChannelMaster 4228 in the attic I should be able to get much improved signal strength and still get NYC off the back side of the antenna.

I don't want a rotor becasue as soon as get one everything will come online from NYC :-)

I have the CM4228 hooked up on the side of my house near the peak---about 7 feet above the roofline. With a CM7775 pre-amp and a CM 9521a rotor (whew--can't believe I've got that memorized :p )

I'm happy with the antenna....I'm still baffled it can pull in UHF stations with such clarity---even non DT/HD (29/17/57/48/35).

The one thing to remember about the CM4228 is that I *believe* it's directional...which means most likely you WILL have to turn it around/rotate it towards the station you are trying to receive. For me, that means I have to turn to 54/55 degrees to get NYC and 273 degrees or so to get Philly. I haven't tried fooling around with any other coordinates yet to see if I can pick up Allentown or Philly stations from the NW.

Occasionally I can get 2-1 and 5-1 with my 4228 facing Philly. Why....damned if I know. Multipath maybe?

Originally posted by jaypb

Occasionally I can get 2-1 and 5-1 with my 4228 facing Philly. Why....damned if I know. Multipath maybe?

Yes, it is most likely multipathing. I get these channels as well, even though I'm pointed in the direction of Philly. One way to check if it is multipathing is to monitor the signal strength. Typically the signal will fluxuate dramatically if you are multipathing. When I get CBS NYC, the signal will jump from 80% down to 15% (sometimes 0%), then back up again.

The Silver Sensor is directional also. With beam type antennas ( if I remember correctly from my ham radio days) you will also get some gain from the back of the antenna. From my location it is almost a straight line from the NYC to Philly towers.

If I turn my Silver Sensor toward NY I get no Philadelphia or Trenton Stations. This makes sense as I am closer to NY. I get higher signal strength's from NY then Philadelphia. When I turn it toward Philadelphia I can pick up those stations but lose signal strength off the back of the antenna from NYC. Since the NYC signals are stronger I can still receive them.

So you may be able to find a compromise position where you can leave the antenna and receive all signals from both NYC and Philadelphia. If you have a rotor this is a moot point.

Originally posted by MartyJ
The Silver Sensor is directional also. With beam type antennas ( if I remember correctly from my ham radio days) you will also get some gain from the back of the antenna. From my location it is almost a straight line from the NYC to Philly towers.

If I turn my Silver Sensor toward NY I get no Philadelphia or Trenton Stations. This makes sense as I am closer to NY. I get higher signal strength's from NY then Philadelphia. When I turn it toward Philadelphia I can pick up those stations but lose signal strength off the back of the antenna from NYC. Since the NYC signals are stronger I can still receive them.

So you may be able to find a compromise position where you can leave the antenna and receive all signals from both NYC and Philadelphia. If you have a rotor this is a moot point.

I tried the SS when I first bought my E86...only problem was my TV is in the basement...and I didnt' feel like futzing around with an attic install...so I just took the plunge with the rooftop setup...and it wasn't that difficult. Somewhat maddening but not difficult :p

I just wish the CM9521a wouldn't lose it's "direction" as often as it does. Seems that's a documented problem with this particular model/batch of rotors. It's easy enough just to pull up my strength meter on the TV and use the remote to move the antenna and wait till I've got a lock on the particular channel. YMMV.

If the SS works for you in the attic then I'd stick with it. Reality is other than CBS (which booms out of BOTH cities) and ABC and the PBS demo loops, there's (IMHO) just not much in the way of HD offers that we can pick up without moving or putting up a 95 foot tower :D . WB out of Philly has pretty much disappeared for me (and there isn't much on there to watch), UPN isn't broadcasting in HD yet. Fox has that "Enhanced Widescreen" stuff---which I don't find too appealing. Maybe when Baseball starts in June it'll grow on me---yet I've never SEEN a MLB game in their "EW" mode. That show "24" is TOO dark visually for me to enjoy. I'd LOVE to get Channel 11 in HD for the Mets games....but that's a pipedream now based on just WHERE I am located.

The interesting thing will be when (if/when) ABC/NBC out of NYC finally get back up and running. NBC has programming in HD worth watching....but getting NBC out of Philly continues to be an adventure for most of us as well until they get up to full power---whenever TF that is :mad:

Originally posted by Calabs
I thought that HDNET was already FREE from D*! I really disagree with this tier pricing for HD content. It just really rubs me the wrong way. :mad: DiscoveryHD is already offered by E*. Anyone know if they charge extra to get it?

Yes, HDNET is free for HD subs. But, it's pretty much airing on a modified schedule in that from 1 am to about 8 am or so D* pushes HD PPV over onto that channel. And, Mark Cuban has a FEW HD related networks he's starting to air/pushing. One is HD Entertainment, than there's HD Sports and HDNEt and HDMovies. I've been following it somewhat...but I'm not sure where exactly it's all going to lead.

I don't mind paying for HD services. Honestly. That's the main reason I dumped Comcast (who I believe is your Cable provider in EB as well right?) and went to D* back in 2000. The lack of *choices*....more importantly...the lack of choices I was WILLING to pay for :eek:

What STILL kills me about OTA HD stuff is....on occasion I'll have people over and I want to show them "what it's all about"....and I can't!!! Because there's NOTHING available at that moment in HD!!! Sure I can show them HBO_HD or SHO_HD...but those DO NOT compare to HDNET's stunning clarity as well as the PBS Loops (which don't run 24/7...at least on 52-2).
So, if I can glean ESPNHD and DISCOVERYHD for $10.00/mth (again, this is just another silly rumor---that I HOPE is true) I'm game.

And, yes, I believe Dish DOES charge somewhere around $10.00 for DISCOVERYHD---not sure if anything else is included in that price though (I don't think they even offer HDNET).

Good Point about leaving the SS for the time being. Sometimes this HT hobby becomes the obscession rather then the entertainment. There is nothing I watch on the WB. Occassionally I will watch UPN. I watch Fox and mostly CBS. So if I can get CBS, Fox, ABC it takes care of most of my television viewing. I should be fine once NBC is up and running in either city.

This TV Dxing is similar to my ham radio days. Its about pulling in the signal not whats on it

Originally posted by MartyJ
Good Point about leaving the SS for the time being. Sometimes this HT hobby becomes the obscession rather then the entertainment. There is nothing I watch on the WB. Occassionally I will watch UPN. I watch Fox and mostly CBS. So if I can get CBS, Fox, ABC it takes care of most of my television viewing. I should be fine once NBC is up and running in either city.

This TV Dxing is similar to my ham radio days. Its about pulling in the signal not whats on it

I made a similar comment with regards to pulling in DT signals. If it's out there, I want to see it. May not happen, but I still feel "inclined" to try and get em :D

I haven't had much time to fool around lately, but I'm hopeful next week I'll be able to....especially since the Tropo forecast looks halfway decent.

Is anyone actually receiving a picture on the 52-1/2/3/4 channels or 43-1/2/3/4 channels on the STB?? I have a Hughes E86...last night I had guide info/channel headings...but no picture...on ANY of the WNJT-DT channels (remapped or viruals) YET I had a 100 signal strength.

Was from 9pm last night to at least midnight (when I was in front of the TV) and I'm seeing the same thing this AM at 9:40 am.

Anyone getting a picture on those channels now?

Is anyone actually receiving a picture on the 52-1/2/3/4 channels or 43-1/2/3/4 channels on the STB?? I have a Hughes E86...last night I had guide info/channel headings...but no picture...on ANY of the WNJT-DT channels (remapped or viruals) YET I had a 100 signal strength.

I'm getting full signal indication on the NJN channels but no picture or sound.

All of the other Philly stations are OK

Ray

Originally posted by RayN
I'm getting full signal indication on the NJN channels but no picture or sound.

All of the other Philly stations are OK

Ray

Thanks for the confirmation.

How about getting a guide listing for 6-2/34-2 and no picture/sound?

Guys,

I live in whitehouse station, NJ in hunterdon county.
I have a winegard 9095 antenna in the attic.

I have a DTC 100 STB, and the 2 worst channels for me are
WCAU & WWHY. CAU comes in around 25-28.

I was up in the attic today, moving the antenna around, to no
avail (actually ended up putting my foot through the 2nd floor
ceiling = UGH!).

What's a good amplifier to through into the system? The DTC100
picks up signal strengths of >35 or so. Also, even if the amp amplifies
noise, isn't a digital signal an all or nothing deal? so the noise is filtered
out???

thanks for any help.

Aceman

Originally posted by Aceman
Guys,

I live in whitehouse station, NJ in hunterdon county.
I have a winegard 9095 antenna in the attic.

I have a DTC 100 STB, and the 2 worst channels for me are
WCAU & WWHY. CAU comes in around 25-28.

I was up in the attic today, moving the antenna around, to no
avail (actually ended up putting my foot through the 2nd floor
ceiling = UGH!).

What's a good amplifier to through into the system? The DTC100
picks up signal strengths of >35 or so. Also, even if the amp amplifies
noise, isn't a digital signal an all or nothing deal? so the noise is filtered
out???

thanks for any help.

Aceman


Aceman---I went with the CM 7775 pre-amp (UHF only). Worked wonders for me in getting WPVI-DT to stay locked in (went from like a 25-40 to a consistent 75-100 on my E86.). Beyond that I haven't really picked up any additional channels that I wanted (WTXF or WPHL or WCAU)---but I think my issues with those signals are location/transmitter related and NOT my antenna/STB/pre-amp.

You*may* have to deal with overamplifying those signals that come frmo towers that are very close to you. Just something to keep in mind.

I am having the same problem with NJT. Good signal strength and no picture. It appears to be a transmission problem. Had lots of people over this weekend and everyone wanted to see HD in the new home theater. Unfortuantely nothing to show them. I wanted to record the HD demo but it was not there.

Originally posted by MartyJ
I am having the same problem with NJT. Good signal strength and no picture. It appears to be a transmission problem. Had lots of people over this weekend and everyone wanted to see HD in the new home theater. Unfortuantely nothing to show them. I wanted to record the HD demo but it was not there.

Is that not THE SINGLE most annoying thing about OTA HD? JuST when you have people over...and you want to "show off" this HD thing....there's nothing on :mad:

Seems that Channel 13DT broadcasts their HD loop 24/7....or something close to it....yet it's not picked up by about 90% of us because they are transmitting at low power....aimed towards Newark or something along those lines.

And as I type this I JUST noticed that my signal on WPVI=DT has dropped to around 27....while all my ohter OTA locals SS is where it usually is/should be....WTF?? Anyone else??

Good thing I had some HD demo commericals like ESPN-HD and Terminator 3 to show off. I showed my friend from Texas my Titan TV schedule and he was not impressed with the pickings.

Originally posted by MartyJ
Good thing I had some HD demo commericals like ESPN-HD and Terminator 3 to show off. I showed my friend from Texas my Titan TV schedule and he was not impressed with the pickings.

Were these on HDNet?

I just watched a Japanese Historical Village special on HDNet and a show on Trains on HDNet. Stunning visuals. Unsurpassed on Network TV IMHO. I feel the same way about the PBS Demo's. One can only hope that as HD becomes more "mainstream" the OTA shows can replicate the SAME stunning visuals.....

jaypb...
check njn 52-1/2...it looks like they're actually broadcasting again.....no video earlier....but both 52-1 and 52-2 were working a few minutes ago....

Also....this evening I moved my attic antenna closer to the south-facing wall to hopefully improve signal strength and reduce multi-pathing....well i'm getting some much stronger signals on my 'usual' channels...wondering if this is due to moving the antenna or tropospheric ducting. the tropo forecast was supposed to be improving starting today.

anybody else seeing stronger signal strength over the last 2 hours or so???

Originally posted by SteveK2
jaypb...
check njn 52-1/2...it looks like they're actually broadcasting again.....no video earlier....but both 52-1 and 52-2 were working a few minutes ago....

Also....this evening I moved my attic antenna closer to the south-facing wall to hopefully improve signal strength and reduce multi-pathing....well i'm getting some much stronger signals on my 'usual' channels...wondering if this is due to moving the antenna or tropospheric ducting. the tropo forecast was supposed to be improving starting today.

anybody else seeing stronger signal strength over the last 2 hours or so???

I noticed that RIGHT after I put my post up about a ridiculously low Signal Strength on 6-1, it bounced back up to 77 or so. Why? Damned if I know !:p

Also began receiving 29-1 at around 8:15 pm as well---solid...signal strength at about 65 or so.......when it's usually at around 18-20 or so.

Still no life out of 17-1 or 10-1 or 12-1.

Everything else seems to be status quo....

jaypb...
The bounce in signal strength must be tropo.

All of my signal strengths last night and again this morning are quite high....and I have finally picked up 12-1 @20%...but it is rock solid...although as I'm writing this and checking signal strengths, 12-1 uisa starting to breakup.

So, here is the current inventory of digital channels (9 digitals now...an all-time high for me):
3-1: 100%
6-1: 69%
12-1:20%
17-1:69%
29-1:69%
34-1:77%
52-1:100%
57-1:77%
66-1:77%

So with 12-1 starting to show signs of breakup, I'm pretty sure it will be gone once the sun is a little higher in the sky.

I got the HD commercials from people who recorded them during the Super Bowl. Here is a link to a thread in the HTPC forum for getting HD trailers and content online.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=249785

These are big files the commercials are about 50MB and the new Matrix Reloaded Trailer is 100MB. When recording HD its about 9GB per hour. I need to upgrade my 40GB hard drive.

I couldn't believe the signal strength I was getting from FOX philly last night at ~65-70%. I've never seen it this high. Usually comes in at ~30-35%. Anyone else notice this last night?

Originally posted by Calabs
I couldn't believe the signal strength I was getting from FOX philly last night at ~65-70%. I've never seen it this high. Usually comes in at ~30-35%. Anyone else notice this last night?

You and I must be in the same "geographic zone" AFA OTA location in Central NJ :D because this AM WTXF-DT was at 100 on my E86---not that signal strength means much in a concrete way, but that's probably the highest I've EVER seen it to date. I even had an *almost decent* lock on 17-1....and 10-1 was up to around 25 on my signal strength meter.

I didn't really "tool" around to see if anything else was coming in....I really wish I had the time to sit down with the list of station's I printed out of DSwallow's link that shows you what's available to you based on your Lat/Long AFA OTA stations.....I'm sure there are other stations that are probably "lockable" right now If I had the time to futz around with the rotor and some coordinates :p

Originally posted by SteveK2
jaypb...
The bounce in signal strength must be tropo.

All of my signal strengths last night and again this morning are quite high....and I have finally picked up 12-1 @20%...but it is rock solid...although as I'm writing this and checking signal strengths, 12-1 uisa starting to breakup.

So, here is the current inventory of digital channels (9 digitals now...an all-time high for me):
3-1: 100%
6-1: 69%
12-1:20%
17-1:69%
29-1:69%
34-1:77%
52-1:100%
57-1:77%
66-1:77%

So with 12-1 starting to show signs of breakup, I'm pretty sure it will be gone once the sun is a little higher in the sky.

I'm with you except for the 12-1 and 17-1....I don't think I've EVER seen a visual image from 12-1...and 17-1 was *almost* locking for me this AM...too pixelated to watch though when I checked before I left today.

Anyone know if 34-1 (WYBE??) will start transmitting an HD loop on that 34-2 subchannel like WNJN does? And the May 1 "start up date" for a boat load of independent/PBS type stations listed at titantv.com is fast approaching.....hope that those PBS stations will start transmitting an HD loop when they go live.

Originally posted by MartyJ
I got the HD commercials from people who recorded them during the Super Bowl. Here is a link to a thread in the HTPC forum for getting HD trailers and content online.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=249785

These are big files the commercials are about 50MB and the new Matrix Reloaded Trailer is 100MB. When recording HD its about 9GB per hour. I need to upgrade my 40GB hard drive.

I haven't gotten into the digital recording area yet....one thing at a time my wife keeps telling me :D

I believe 3rd quarter this year is when D* is supposed to roll out an integrated HD tuner/PVR.....maybe I'll start then....if I have 600-700 to play with :)

I"m not sure how well this is going to line up---but it shows the stations set to go live "soon"....but again, Ch 8 out of New Brunswick was supposed to go live 4/1 and it didn't so we'll see....

Network CH Station Live Date

ABC 45 WABC-DT Sep 1 2003
IND 18 WMBC-DT May 1 2003
IND 27 WGTW-DT Apr 30 2003
IND 25 WTVE-DT May 1 2003
IND 48 WRNN-DT May 15 2003
NBC 28 WNBC-DT FCC Extension
PAX 30 WPXN-DT May 1 2003
PAX 31 WPPX-DT May 1 2003
PBS 8 WNJB-DT May 1 2003
PBS 24 WNYE-DT May 1 2003
PBS 22 WNJS-DT May 1 2003
TEL 36 WNJU-DT FCC Extension
TFA 53 WFUT-DT May 1 2003
UNI 40 WXTV-DT May 1 2003
UNI 66 WUVP-DT FCC Extension

Originally posted by jaypb
You and I must be in the same "geographic zone" AFA OTA location in Central NJ :D because this AM WTXF-DT was at 100 on my E86---not that signal strength means much in a concrete way, but that's probably the highest I've EVER seen it to date. I even had an *almost decent* lock on 17-1....and 10-1 was up to around 25 on my signal strength meter.

I didn't really "tool" around to see if anything else was coming in....I really wish I had the time to sit down with the list of station's I printed out of DSwallow's link that shows you what's available to you based on your Lat/Long AFA OTA stations.....I'm sure there are other stations that are probably "lockable" right now If I had the time to futz around with the rotor and some coordinates :p

Yes, it seems we have similar luck/problems with the various Philly stations; with the exception of 17-1. I've always had a good lock on it (~55-65%). Last night it was up slightly to ~70%. I get WHYY occasionally; it's basically a 50:50 crap shoot for that channel, with no rhyme or reason with when I get a good signal.

Originally posted by Calabs
Yes, it seems we have similar luck/problems with the various Philly stations; with the exception of 17-1. I've always had a good lock on it (~55-65%). Last night it was up slightly to ~70%. I get WHYY occasionally; it's basically a 50:50 crap shoot for that channel, with no rhyme or reason with when I get a good signal.

I've sometimes wondered if my digital reception would improve if I either moved my antenna, got it higher, or installed a different one---but, reality is, unless I KNOW I can improve my situation by doing the above to actually RECEIVE HD programming I'm not going to do it.

By that I mean---if I KNEW that 80% of the people in my area were getting a certain DT channel I wasn't THEN I'd adjust my setup (BTW---you're *probably* the closest geographically AFA someone who I can compare reception to---no neighbors are up and running yet). But, since *most* people can't receive WCAU unless Mars is in alignment with Jupiter I'm not going to fuss. And, unless MORE HD programming is available via WB (11-1 or 17-1) and the various PBS's (12-1/13-1) I'm not going to kill myself.

Like you said---it seems to be a crap shoot for certain stations. Have you ever had any luck picking up the Digitals out of Allentown or any of the other Eastern PA locale's? I'm able to pick up analog 48 out of AC?? But I don't think there DT will be live until next month---but, again, there's *probably* not going to be any HD on that channel----so why go crazy! :rolleyes:

Originally posted by jaypb
I've sometimes wondered if my digital reception would improve if I either moved my antenna, got it higher, or installed a different one---but, reality is, unless I KNOW I can improve my situation by doing the above to actually RECEIVE HD programming I'm not going to do it.

By that I mean---if I KNEW that 80% of the people in my area were getting a certain DT channel I wasn't THEN I'd adjust my setup (BTW---you're *probably* the closest geographically AFA someone who I can compare reception to---no neighbors are up and running yet). But, since *most* people can't receive WCAU unless Mars is in alignment with Jupiter I'm not going to fuss. And, unless MORE HD programming is available via WB (11-1 or 17-1) and the various PBS's (12-1/13-1) I'm not going to kill myself.

Like you said---it seems to be a crap shoot for certain stations. Have you ever had any luck picking up the Digitals out of Allentown or any of the other Eastern PA locale's? I'm able to pick up analog 48 out of AC?? But I don't think there DT will be live until next month---but, again, there's *probably* not going to be any HD on that channel----so why go crazy! :rolleyes:

I agree that it's not worth going crazy over trying to get EVERY station at this time. As time moves on, eventually FOX and NBC will move to their new towers with increased power. I know you are using a preamp, but refresh my memory... is your antenna outdoors or in the attic, or on top of your TV, and what antenna do you have?

There's no guarantee that even someone that lives down the street from you will have the same reception as you. It's very weird in that way. Tree lines and other factors play a big part in reception. Do you have lots of trees in your area? How is your line of sight to the tower?

Originally posted by Calabs
I agree that it's not worth going crazy over trying to get EVERY station at this time. As time moves on, eventually FOX and NBC will move to their new towers with increased power. I know you are using a preamp, but refresh my memory... is your antenna outdoors or in the attic, or on top of your TV, and what antenna do you have?

There's no guarantee that even someone that lives down the street from you will have the same reception as you. It's very weird in that way. Tree lines and other factors play a big part in reception. Do you have lots of trees in your area? How is your line of sight to the tower?


I'm using a roof mounted CM4228 8 bay bowtie and a CM7775 preamp (UHF only). I have some tall pines across the street. I'm curious to see as leaves start growing back in if I'll have any signal issues from now until the end of September or so. I didn't start my HD experience until mid February ro so. Since my house is a ranch, the antenna itself is *probably* about 25 or so feet off the ground what with the masting and such. AFA my line of sight, I'm really not sure about that part----I do have the pines across the street, but to the best of my knowledge there is no large obstructions I can think of that are in the way between me and Philly---by that I mean things like that VERY tall water tower over by Home Depot in Milltown. I'm sure there *may* be power line towers in the path from me to Philly, but I'm getting KYW/WPSG/WNJN pretty much at 100 constantly and WPVI at a a steady 75 or so (other than a drop to about 24 on Sunday---weird). The aforementioned WCAU is a horror...but most of us kind of understand why. And the WTXF signal strength doesn't drive me crazy since I hooked up my rotor and can turn towards NYC for any "ENHANCED DEFINITION WIDESCREEN" Faux HD programming I need....blah.


It's just that I'd like to be able to, at any time of the day, show visitors what OTA HD is all about....but more often than not, I can't!!! And I have to rely on HDNet and HBO/SHO_HD to do that. But, the content on HBO/SHO_HD is usually upconverted or transferred stuff....so HDNET usually wows em anyway:p

But, it's explaning to people that OTA stuff is "technically" free programming---but until the signals all power up and shows become more prevelant IN HD, I don't think a lot of folks will make the transition.

Just MHO of course :eek:

Originally posted by jaypb
I'm using a roof mounted CM4228 8 bay bowtie and a CM7775 preamp (UHF only). I have some tall pines across the street. I'm curious to see as leaves start growing back in if I'll have any signal issues from now until the end of September or so. I didn't start my HD experience until mid February ro so. Since my house is a ranch, the antenna itself is *probably* about 25 or so feet off the ground what with the masting and such. AFA my line of sight, I'm really not sure about that part----I do have the pines across the street, but to the best of my knowledge there is no large obstructions I can think of that are in the way between me and Philly---by that I mean things like that VERY tall water tower over by Home Depot in Milltown. I'm sure there *may* be power line towers in the path from me to Philly, but I'm getting KYW/WPSG/WNJN pretty much at 100 constantly and WPVI at a a steady 75 or so (other than a drop to about 24 on Sunday---weird). The aforementioned WCAU is a horror...but most of us kind of understand why. And the WTXF signal strength doesn't drive me crazy since I hooked up my rotor and can turn towards NYC for any "ENHANCED DEFINITION WIDESCREEN" Faux HD programming I need....blah.


Sounds like your setup is very good. The 8 bowtie has pretty good gain, and is very directional which should reduce multipathing. The CM7775 is about 24 db gain or so, right? So whatever your not getting with that setup, its most likely due to transmitter power (or lack thereof). Unless you can raise your antenna above the Pine tree line, you probable won't get much better anyway.
Now that the warmer weather is upon us, let's hope the WCAU tower will begin to make progress again. That would make me one happy camper!

Thats why I went with a HTPC. Added HD capability with recording for only $275. Its nice to be able to download content from the web for viewing. Go check out the HiDef BMW Films at www.bmwfilms.com. Thye work great as trailers.:D

Originally posted by Calabs
Sounds like your setup is very good. The 8 bowtie has pretty good gain, and is very directional which should reduce multipathing. The CM7775 is about 24 db gain or so, right? So whatever your not getting with that setup, its most likely due to transmitter power (or lack thereof). Unless you can raise your antenna above the Pine tree line, you probable won't get much better anyway.
Now that the warmer weather is upon us, let's hope the WCAU tower will begin to make progress again. That would make me one happy camper!

I've wavered on whether or not to go higher with the masting. I have an additional 5 foot of mast that I haven't hooked up yet. I need to get some guy wire/rings and some other hardware before I do that. I have the rotor on a 5 foot length of masting...and the CM4228 on another 5 foot mast that is ON TOP OF the rotor. I don't think I really should have a 5 foot mast on top of the rotor---at least from what I've read on the web and in the manual :mad: . But, for now I'll deal with it. I did "walk the roof" a bit with the Cm4228 when I hooked up the rotor...and PUT the 4228 on a total of 10 feet of masting and had the wife check the signal strength as a raised it as high as I could---and WCAU didn't change nor did WHYY or WTXF from the general roof area I was able to walk with the length of RG6 I had accessible. My only other option would be to move the antenna to the other side of the roof/house---but then I get into additional issues with a longer than 50-100 foot lenght of RG-6.....like I said....it all goes back to what's potentially available in HD---it's not worth it to put the effort into it---yet :)

The only reason you'd need to add additional mast height is to get the antenna above a local obstruction. If your antenna is already above local obstructions, moving it higher by 5 feet is not going to increase your range by any appreciable amount (almost negligible actually). It's purely based on obstructions (and similarly multipath caused by obstructions).

Originally posted by dswallow
The only reason you'd need to add additional mast height is to get the antenna above a local obstruction. If your antenna is already above local obstructions, moving it higher by 5 feet is not going to increase your range by any appreciable amount (almost negligible actually). It's purely based on obstructions (and similarly multipath caused by obstructions).

Hey that's what I said (in less words)! ;)

Originally posted by dswallow
The only reason you'd need to add additional mast height is to get the antenna above a local obstruction. If your antenna is already above local obstructions, moving it higher by 5 feet is not going to increase your range by any appreciable amount (almost negligible actually). It's purely based on obstructions (and similarly multipath caused by obstructions).

Well, I guess I'll put that project to bed then :D

Is there any way to figure out if there ARE any obstructions between location a and the towers??? I mean I'm ASSUMING there are no obstructions based on the fact that I can get signals from other transmitters at the Roxbourough (SP??) antenna farm and the ones I can't seem to be the stations with known issues. But---I was always curious as to just HOW you could tell if there really was anything of significance (height wise) between you and a tower....especially (in my case) a transmitter that is (roughly) 50 or so miles away :confused:

jaypb


I’m down in Freehold and had the same experience signals levels were much higher than normal and I was able to pick up a few add ional channels that I had been having problems with in the past.

One of them being WPVI 6-1, 2 it came in a rock steady 64% it took a while for me to find the optimum placement for the Silver Sensors (damn their signal is flakey) but after some experimenting I was able to get it.

I also picked up WPHL-DT 17-1 with a signal of around 34% with very little drop outs. Strange thing was I would pick up the all of the channel banner info but the picture was the analog version if I re-input 17-1 the digital picture would appear. WTXF-DT came in really strong 72% and KYW as well. I could not for the life of me pick up WCAU-DT.

I was also able to pickup two analogs out of conn. WTHN and CPTV channel 40. Also two Spanish networks on 66-1, 66-2 oh well lets see what tonight brings.

Originally posted by wward
jaypb


I’m down in Freehold and had the same experience signals levels were much higher than normal and I was able to pick up a few add ional channels that I had been having problems with in the past.

One of them being WPVI 6-1, 2 it came in a rock steady 64% it took a while for me to find the optimum placement for the Silver Sensors (damn their signal is flakey) but after some experimenting I was able to get it.

I also picked up WPHL-DT 17-1 with a signal of around 34% with very little drop outs. Strange thing was I would pick up the all of the channel banner info but the picture was the analog version if I re-input 17-1 the digital picture would appear. WTXF-DT came in really strong 72% and KYW as well. I could not for the life of me pick up WCAU-DT.

I was also able to pickup two analogs out of conn. WTHN and CPTV channel 40. Also two Spanish networks on 66-1, 66-2 oh well lets see what tonight brings.

Are you able to pick up 48 analog out of AC (think it's AC)---believe it's an independent network. My E86 has database info for a channel 40 NBC from somewhere---either south jersey or philly area---I don't think they transmit HD though.

WCAU is the killer!!! I just read over on the Programming forum that NBC will have the Triple Crown in HD. Bummer.

Would've liked to see how a horse race looks in HD. Well, there's always HDNET....I'm sure if they have swamp buggy races in HD, they are BOUND to throw a few horses a bone and film them in HD :D

Originally posted by wward

I was also able to pickup two analogs out of conn. WTHN and CPTV channel 40. Also two Spanish networks on 66-1, 66-2 oh well lets see what tonight brings.

Oh yeah, and another thing....It's funny---on 66-1/2 Spanish subchannel setup....My E86 gives me 66-1....and it mirrors 65-2....and 66-2....mirrors 65-1. Why? Damned if I know.

Pretty funny actually :p

jaypb


I picked up channels 40 and 48 last night also. I noticed the same thing with 66-1, 2 re: the remapping. I could not find anything listed for these channels as being live I wonder if they are testing??

Originally posted by wward
jaypb


I picked up channels 40 and 48 last night also. I noticed the same thing with 66-1, 2 re: the remapping. I could not find anything listed for these channels as being live I wonder if they are testing??

If you scroll up a wee bit you'll see I copied and pasted Titantv.com's "stations coming soon" for our area. I believe This:

UNI 66 WUVP-DT FCC Extension

is the station we are seeing. I notice it comes and goes occasionally. And even when I'm seeing a signal strength of 65 or so---i still get no video/picture so I guess they're going over some "Things" right now.

Well, looks like very little tropo benefit, at least for me, tonight.

No WTXF. No WPHL....hell, I'm not even getting a blip on WYBE (34-1)...not sure why on that one.

Tropo forecast (http://www.iprimus.ca/~hepburnw/tropo.html) looks most promising for Friday. Dare I say this is *THE* best I've ever seen it for Central NJ since I came across the link on this site over a month ago.

At least I'm seeing Cameron Diaz tonight in all her HD glory on WPVI!!! :D

Definately seeing some strange occurrences this evening (now morning)....missed all of Charlie's Angels due to a Little League meeting....but got back about 90 minutes ago and was able to get a picture on WCAU (10-1)!! Even got to see some of Leno before the picture broke-up and the signal faded. 10 minutes later, Leno was back. Interesting that last night I could receive 12-1 (WHYY), but not 10-1....today I can get 10-1, but not 12-1.

Then while watching Letterman about 15 minutes ago, the signal strength dropped to 20% and the picture started to breakup....earlier today and last night, signal strength on KYW (3-1) was 100%...its normally rock solid at 77%.

Looks like Friday's tropo forecast looks really good.....

jaypb


Same here very little tropo action tonight lets see what Friday brings cant wait!!

Haven't checked all channels yet, but receiving WHYY (12-1) and WCAU (10-1) both @69% signal strength!! Excellent PQ also.

OMG!! 12 digital channels coming in this morning (an all-time high for me).....including a couple I've never seen before. Here's the list:
3-1, 6-1/2, 10-1, 12-1, 17-1, 29-1, 34-1/2, 39-1/2/3/4 (new Lehigh Valley), 52-1/2/3/4, 57-1, 66-1/2, 69-1/2 (new, Lehigh Valley/AccuweatherChannel).

The weakest signal is 69-1/2 coming in at barely 20% with some breakup. All others at least 45%, several at 100% (3-1, 52-1), most well over 60% and rock solid.

I suspect the signal on 10-1, 12-1, 39-x, and 69-x will fade as the sun climbs into the sky.

Anyone else getting such great reception this morning?!?

I got WCAU last night as well, albeit broken up, but still a signal strong enough to get a picture. FOX droped to ~50% from last night's 65% (normal for me is 35%). OK, who's got the phone number for WCAU? I need to chat with the engineer over there about their new tower!

Originally posted by Calabs
I got WCAU last night as well, albeit broken up, but still a signal strong enough to get a picture. FOX droped to ~50% from last night's 65% (normal for me is 35%). OK, who's got the phone number for WCAU? I need to chat with the engineer over there about their new tower!

Didn't get to check this AM---but at 2am when I awoke off the couch :D I didn't have more than a blip on WCAU....so the ebb and the flow continues!

Yet, when I checked WTXF was at almost 100%....so...go figure!

Once NBC comes in, in my mind, all will be well.

But, I guess they don't feel they have an incentive to get it running at full power. KYW is on almost EVERY night in my house now that I'm watching their digital channel.

Membership DOES have it's priveleges....on both sides of the fence ;)

Originally posted by SteveK2
Definately seeing some strange occurrences this evening (now morning)....missed all of Charlie's Angels due to a Little League meeting....but got back about 90 minutes ago and was able to get a picture on WCAU (10-1)!! Even got to see some of Leno before the picture broke-up and the signal faded. 10 minutes later, Leno was back. Interesting that last night I could receive 12-1 (WHYY), but not 10-1....today I can get 10-1, but not 12-1.

Then while watching Letterman about 15 minutes ago, the signal strength dropped to 20% and the picture started to breakup....earlier today and last night, signal strength on KYW (3-1) was 100%...its normally rock solid at 77%.

Looks like Friday's tropo forecast looks really good.....

Strange things man, strange things :rolleyes:

Starting to wish I'd gone downstairs and popped the TV on before leaving for work JUST to see if anything was amiss.

Originally posted by SteveK2
OMG!! 12 digital channels coming in this morning (an all-time high for me).....including a couple I've never seen before. Here's the list:
3-1, 6-1/2, 10-1, 12-1, 17-1, 29-1, 34-1/2, 39-1/2/3/4 (new Lehigh Valley), 52-1/2/3/4, 57-1, 66-1/2, 69-1/2 (new, Lehigh Valley/AccuweatherChannel).

The weakest signal is 69-1/2 coming in at barely 20% with some breakup. All others at least 45%, several at 100% (3-1, 52-1), most well over 60% and rock solid.

I suspect the signal on 10-1, 12-1, 39-x, and 69-x will fade as the sun climbs into the sky.

Anyone else getting such great reception this morning?!?

Steve,

Did you actually see something on 34-2? EVERYTIME I breeze on by, I can get picture/sound on 34-1...but 34-2 has nothing. Nada. And, the other odd thing about WYBE is that when I get a signal....it's almost ALWAYS 100%....and when I can't get a picture...the strength is ZERO. Like it's not there. Are they having issues? I guess, for me, the signal is "all or nothing" Was just curious if that was what others noticed.

Did you actually see something on 34-2?

No...same as you....signal is strong, but screen is blank and silent.

They may not have any issues...just no content to broadcast....just look at the crap they have on 34-1:D

Earlier today, when I was receiving 39-1/2/3/4, I was pretty impressed by the fact that each sub-channel had different programming. It was all PBS, but different. And it was 'better' than the stuff on 34-1 (which is listed as a PBS station, also).

That Lehigh Valley Accu-weather channel----wonder why ABC out of Philly couldn't slap something like that together. Instead of stretching 6-2, would be pretty cool to have something like weather on 6-2.

I believe that 57-1 is a bit different from 57 analog---some traffic and other information maybe???

Yeah, that accuweatherchannel was pretty cool. Local weather, news ticker, sports ticker, stock ticker, local traffic videos....a nice set of information on a subchannel. I agree that it would be nice on a Philly station for the locals to get this info instead of wasting bandwidth with stretched SD material...who would watch that anyway when the HD channel is right there?

I haven't noticed any differences between 57 analog and 57-1, but I have not watched at all during the morning or afternoon.

As expected, 10-1, 12-1, 39-1/2/3/4, 69-1/2 have all faded (10-1 is still hanging in, but just barely @20% with picture breaking up). But 17-1 and 29-1 are quite solid with strong signal strength.

Originally posted by SteveK2
Yeah, that accuweatherchannel was pretty cool. Local weather, news ticker, sports ticker, stock ticker, local traffic videos....a nice set of information on a subchannel. I agree that it would be nice on a Philly station for the locals to get this info instead of wasting bandwidth with stretched SD material...who would watch that anyway when the HD channel is right there?

I haven't noticed any differences between 57 analog and 57-1, but I have not watched at all during the morning or afternoon.

As expected, 10-1, 12-1, 39-1/2/3/4, 69-1/2 have all faded (10-1 is still hanging in, but just barely @20% with picture breaking up). But 17-1 and 29-1 are quite solid with strong signal strength.

Steve---are you still using a Samsung STB??? That receiver is able to get a lock on signals (relatively speaking) that seem to be pretty weak. My E86 won't show a watchable signal for anything under 50 or so on my meter.

Is there any way to correlate your signal meter vs mine? I'm just curious as to what your 20% equals on my E86. I know I've read that the Signal Strengths aren't a concrete measure of transmission power and whatnot---but I just happened to notice your "20%" comment. Was the Samsung unit you have now your first and only foray into HD OTA??

Just happened to take a look at the "coming soon" page on Titantv.com's website for our area. Noticed these two changes:

PBS 8 WNJB-DT Nov 1 2003
PBS 22 WNJS-DT Nov 1 2003

So, I guess there goes two more *potential* PBS loop stations.

Also wgtw (http://www.wgtwtv48.com/index.htm) is the station that is supposed to go DT live tomorrow.

I'm almost positive there are NO HD offerings here.

jaypb,

Yes...the Samsung TS-160 is my first and only OTA HD receiver to this point (its also a Directv HD receiver, but have not gotten around to called Directv about a new dish --yet).

It seems that when my signal strength meter reads '20%', that is the borderline between locking/not locking and any picture breakups (with some exceptions). But you are right.....these numbers can't really be used across manufacturers (or possibly even different models by the same mfg).

BTW...I also noticed this morning for a very brief time, that I was receiving a signal on 9-1 (supposed to be WWOR-DT in New York). It was not WWOR digital or analog. The station's call letters were WJZ - Baltimore Maryland.

Although some of the channels have disappeared this afternoon as expected, I am still able to get 29-1 @30% so it is very stable.

Hoping to get NBC (10-1) tonight so that I can watch Leno in HD.

Hi, I'm just getting started with the reception end of this hit or miss HDTV thing. I threw a Silver sensor up outside on pole about 18 foot off the ground. Obviously this is temporary....I figure I have to do something more permanent before the electrical tape begins to peel away :-)

I'm in New Egypt which according to the sites listed here is 37.5 miles from Phila and at 280 degrees. I can get 3-1, 6-1/2 17-1, 29-1 and 66-1/2 most of the time but like the rest of you 10-1 ( 67) just won't lock on. Most of the channels stay pretty steady at 75-77, with occasional dropouts. Mostly when a C141 or KC135 from McGuire goes by ( the price of FREEDOM)

The only thing I haven't seen mentioned here is what your signal meters are showing for WCAU? I get an up and down signal - goes to 66 drops to about 33 then to 0. It just keeps going thru this cycle. Is this an indication of Multipath? My plan is to throw up about a thirty foot pole attached to my deck and put up a real outdoor antenna, probably a CM 4228 but am hesitant based on all the info here that it's just the lousy signal from 10-1.

Why a thirty foot pool out on the deck? I have two MASSIVE, probably 50 ft pine trees in my neighbors yard that are smack in the path if I put a mast on my house. Couldn't pick up hardly anything :-(

Equipment: Panasonic TU-DST52 receiver
The antenna is connected with a run of RG6 to a Winegard preamp( lucky me, I have power in the bar for it :-) then the RG6 goes to a diplexer to share the line with the Dish.

Anyone think it is worth the extra 12 feet I'd get with a galvanized pole and a CM 4228? I'm pretty sure it wouldn't bend in the wind the way the PVC does!

Thanks,
Wayne

Is this an indication of Multipath?

Yes...or the result of your PVC mast swaying in the breeze. :D

OK, Maybe a bit exaggerated in he swaying part, unless the wind is blowing pretty strong. I have an outside bar on the deck and I have the pole anchored to it so that only the top third is free. It will get better with some rigid pipe, but for testing, it seemed to do the trick.

I'm guessing that at 37 miles I should be getting a pretty decent signal. It's just weird that 67 is the only one that is cycling like that. I was watching wpvi last night and while the story line was a bit on the "duh, I've lost the signal side", the PICTURE was pretty...in all regards :eek:

The other weird thing is that the Silver Sensor it pointed at about 250 and it's better than at 280. The BAD thing is if I really need to line up an antenna at 280 I think I can see the source of my multi path problem. The Water tower is straight in the path.

Wayne

...I was being facetious about the pvc 'swaying in the breeze'....

..at any rate, you definately have some multi-path and your last example confirms this....if broadcast towers are @280 degrees, but you are picking up a better signal @250, then you are catching a reflected signal from somewhere.

And I agree with you that @37 miles you should be able to lock. But I have read elsewhere on this forum that the 10-1 transmitter is not on a tower, but on the south face of a tall building. So you may not be far enough south of the broadcast antenna to be able to receive a strong signal.

An all time record was set last night, when I received WCAU at 65%. What a nice picture! Wouldn't you know it, however, I fell asleep before Leno came on! :mad: The signal was son strong, I thought they flipped the switch on the new tower. But low and behold, this morning I got the typical 10-15% signal.

Still getting WFTX at 50%. Hangin' in there.

Originally posted by Calabs
An all time record was set last night, when I received WCAU at 65%. What a nice picture! Wouldn't you know it, however, I fell asleep before Leno came on! :mad: The signal was son strong, I thought they flipped the switch on the new tower. But low and behold, this morning I got the typical 10-15% signal.

Still getting WFTX at 50%. Hangin' in there.

I watched Leno last night---but fell asleep about 15 minutes into it :D

Picture was pretty clear---don't remember seeing a "great" tropo forecast for last night though----But Friday is supposed to be intense---YET IT'S SUPPOSED TO RAIN HERE!!! I assume that mangles the intensity right???:confused:

I sent an e-mail to WCAU about their new tower. I'll let you guys know what/if I hear anything back.

Originally posted by WMMHOME
OK, Maybe a bit exaggerated in he swaying part, unless the wind is blowing pretty strong. I have an outside bar on the deck and I have the pole anchored to it so that only the top third is free. It will get better with some rigid pipe, but for testing, it seemed to do the trick.

I'm guessing that at 37 miles I should be getting a pretty decent signal. It's just weird that 67 is the only one that is cycling like that. I was watching wpvi last night and while the story line was a bit on the "duh, I've lost the signal side", the PICTURE was pretty...in all regards :eek:

The other weird thing is that the Silver Sensor it pointed at about 250 and it's better than at 280. The BAD thing is if I really need to line up an antenna at 280 I think I can see the source of my multi path problem. The Water tower is straight in the path.

Wayne

I'd venture a solid guess that, yes that Watertower is your issue. How far away is it? I'm pretty sure the ONLY way for you to compensate for it would be for you to get your antenna above it if it is RIGHT in the middle of your line of sight to the transmission tower. That's my limited knowledge of this "HD thing" :p

AFA the swaying, my CM4228 is on a mast that's attached to a rotor and I can SEE it visually shimmying in the wind every now and then. It only seems to be an issue for those stations that I have "issues" with when they DO come in (WXTF-DT comes to mind). KYW-DT is rock solid even when there is a foot of snow on the roof and a blizzard in the midst!

Welcome to the club!

Originally posted by SteveK2
...I was being facetious about the pvc 'swaying in the breeze'....

..at any rate, you definately have some multi-path and your last example confirms this....if broadcast towers are @280 degrees, but you are picking up a better signal @250, then you are catching a reflected signal from somewhere.

And I agree with you that @37 miles you should be able to lock. But I have read elsewhere on this forum that the 10-1 transmitter is not on a tower, but on the south face of a tall building. So you may not be far enough south of the broadcast antenna to be able to receive a strong signal.

I too have read about the transmitter being on the building instead of the tower.

BTW---here's the text of the reply I received from NBC. Somewhat of a canned response, but.....I'm led to believe there's light at the end of the tunnel :rolleyes:

Without going into the details as to why we have not gone to full power yet, I can tell you that it is our hope to be transmitting at full power sometime in the next few months.

That was from the Technical Operations Manager. So, we'll see....

Originally posted by jaypb
I sent an e-mail to WCAU about their new tower. I'll let you guys know what/if I hear anything back.

Can you point me to the e-mail address for WCAU. I'd also like to send them something. Perhaps if enough send our concerns, one of us will actually can a detailed response.
Thanks in advance!

Originally posted by Calabs
Can you point me to the e-mail address for WCAU. I'd also like to send them something. Perhaps if enough send our concerns, one of us will actually can a detailed response.
Thanks in advance!

http://www.nbc10.com/

Go to the top right tab. I sent it to "General Feedback" and it was forwarded to the Op's manager by the person who received it. Then the operations manager responded about an hour later. Pretty quick actually.

I'd say THIS route may be the best way because it goes through MORE people/hands....and in my book, in this type of a situation, if you ruffle enough feathers up the chain of command, more people will talk about it/be aware of the issue as opposed to just sending an e-mail to the Op Manager....and it may just sit in his inbox and no one else would know about it but him :D

---------------------------------
I'd venture a solid guess that, yes that Water tower is your issue. How far away is it? I'm pretty sure the ONLY way for you to compensate for it would be for you to get your antenna above it if it is RIGHT in the middle of your line of sight to the transmission tower.
-------------------------------

Well getting it higher than the tower isn't an option so I'll have to bet on the weak 10-1 signal being the culprit since the others are pretty stable. From my position, they are ALL at 280.1 - 280.2 degrees.

The tower is only about two blocks away but it isn't a huge one. This is an OLD town. I don't even get my water from the thing, I get it from the pipe that fills it.

I guess I have two options 1) wait until WCAU gets it together and puts up a decent signal to see how I do with the temporary setup or 2) don't wait and put up a 24-30 ft pole and see what I get now.

My impatient guess is I'll be putting up the pole this weekend:-) I almost had my hands on three pieces of galvanized pipe WITH couplers to reach that thirty feet, but the guy who said he had it couldn't find them :-(

Thanks for the feedback,

Wayne

Here's the e-mail I wrote to WCAU. I'm hoping I will get something more than a boiler-plate statement from them! Keep you posted.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Sirs:
May I start by saying that NBC is a favorite in our house. Lots of good
programming! In the age of digital, however, it concerns me that WCAU has
not yet moved to their new tower at full power so that everyone in the
surrounding areas can enjoy the large amount of HDTV offered by your
station. In my location, I can pick up every Philly station, with the
exception of WCAU. My family is at the point where if there are two shows
to watch that we like, and one is in HDTV, we will chose the HDTV show hands
down.

Can you please provide me with some detail on when WCAU anticipates moving
to the new tower? Any detail will be helpful. As a writer for an A/V
magazine, I frequently use OTA digital stations as testing criteria. I
would love to be able to use WCAU-DT as part of my testing. Thank you for
your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,

Ralph Calabria
Associate Editor
Secrets of Home Theater HiFi Magazine

Here's the e-mail I wrote to WCAU. I'm hoping I will get something more than a boiler-plate statement from them! Keep you posted.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Sirs:
May I start by saying that NBC is a favorite in our house. Lots of good
programming! In the age of digital, however, it concerns me that WCAU has not yet moved to their new tower at full power so that everyone in the
surrounding areas can enjoy the large amount of HDTV offered by your
station. In my location, I can pick up every Philly station, with the
exception of WCAU. My family is at the point where if there are two shows
to watch that we like, and one is in HDTV, we will chose the HDTV show hands
down.

Can you please provide me with some detail on when WCAU anticipates moving to the new tower? Any detail will be helpful. As a writer for an A/V
magazine, I frequently use OTA digital stations as testing criteria. I
would love to be able to use WCAU-DT as part of my testing. Thank you for
your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,

Ralph Calabria
Associate Editor
Secrets of Home Theater HiFi Magazine

Originally posted by Calabs
Here's the e-mail I wrote to WCAU. I'm hoping I will get something more than a boiler-plate statement from them! Keep you posted.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Sirs:
May I start by saying that NBC is a favorite in our house. Lots of good
programming! In the age of digital, however, it concerns me that WCAU has not yet moved to their new tower at full power so that everyone in the
surrounding areas can enjoy the large amount of HDTV offered by your
station. In my location, I can pick up every Philly station, with the
exception of WCAU. My family is at the point where if there are two shows
to watch that we like, and one is in HDTV, we will chose the HDTV show hands
down.

Can you please provide me with some detail on when WCAU anticipates moving to the new tower? Any detail will be helpful. As a writer for an A/V
magazine, I frequently use OTA digital stations as testing criteria. I
would love to be able to use WCAU-DT as part of my testing. Thank you for
your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Best regards,

Ralph Calabria
Associate Editor
Secrets of Home Theater HiFi Magazine

You made yours sound nice and professional ;)

Sounds good. BTW----anyone else having a problem either accessing the site or posting this afternoon----I noticed your last 2 posts were the same...shall I assume you had issues as well???

Originally posted by WMMHOME
---------------------------------
I'd venture a solid guess that, yes that Water tower is your issue. How far away is it? I'm pretty sure the ONLY way for you to compensate for it would be for you to get your antenna above it if it is RIGHT in the middle of your line of sight to the transmission tower.
-------------------------------

Well getting it higher than the tower isn't an option so I'll have to bet on the weak 10-1 signal being the culprit since the others are pretty stable. From my position, they are ALL at 280.1 - 280.2 degrees.

The tower is only about two blocks away but it isn't a huge one. This is an OLD town. I don't even get my water from the thing, I get it from the pipe that fills it.

I guess I have two options 1) wait until WCAU gets it together and puts up a decent signal to see how I do with the temporary setup or 2) don't wait and put up a 24-30 ft pole and see what I get now.

My impatient guess is I'll be putting up the pole this weekend:-) I almost had my hands on three pieces of galvanized pipe WITH couplers to reach that thirty feet, but the guy who said he had it couldn't find them :-(

Thanks for the feedback,

Wayne

Is there any way for you to avoid the tower by moving the antenna to a different spot on your deck/roof/property? In my case, IJUST noticed that a big @$$ tree on the sidewalk is pretty much RIGHT in the path of the Philly stations....and this lovely big tree is now starting to sprout it's leaves! It never even dawned on me that it would do that :eek:...you had asked a question earlier {I believe} about leaves affecting your signal as a multipath effect....I now echo the same concerns. I'm anxiously waiting to see if I have issues with my signals as well. I remember reading on another site that trees didn't affect signal reception, but now I'm concerned that those stations that I'm hit and miss on, may be totally miss now.

Anyone?

Originally posted by jaypb
I remember reading on another site that trees didn't affect signal reception, but now I'm concerned that those stations that I'm hit and miss on, may be totally miss now.

Anyone?

I'd like to see that site. :) Leaves should have an affect on reception (leaves in the path = poorer reception). My neighbor has a small forest in his back yard directly in my line of sight to the towers). During the spring/summer months when all is in bloom, reception goes down somwhat. Not TOO much, but nonetheless measurable.

Originally posted by jaypb


BTW----anyone else having a problem either accessing the site or posting this afternoon----I noticed your last 2 posts were the same...shall I assume you had issues as well???

Other than it was taking EXTREMELY long to load and send, it's OK. I suspect that's why the message was in duplication. :rolleyes:

Originally posted by Calabs
I'd like to see that site. :) Leaves should have an affect on reception (leaves in the path = poorer reception). My neighbor has a small forest in his back yard directly in my line of sight to the towers). During the spring/summer months when all is in bloom, reception goes down somwhat. Not TOO much, but nonetheless measurable.

Of course, when I WANT to find something, I can't....I might have the site bookmarked at home....and I don't know WHY for the life of me what the EXACT quote was. I'm not even quite sure WHY I didn't ask that question earlier though. Dope :o

Funny thing is, this tree was supposed to be removed by the Township last fall because it's between the curb and the sidewalk....they never took it down though.

I think I now have incentive to call daily....so it's WCAU and the township at the top of the list!!! :D

yes that Water tower is your issue

A large water tower being in the direct line of sight might result in some signal loss (i.e., blocked signal), but in the case of multi-path, there is some reflective-type surface that's causing the same signal to hit the antenna with a minimal time delay - or - another nearby signal that is disrupting the fainter signal. I'm no expert, but I think the bigger issue is the weak signal...and secondarily a large reflective surface (the side of a nearby building?).

Just my $0.02.

BTW....I didn't get to see Leno in HD last night....WCAU's signal started fading right @11:35 and the picture was unsteady/unwatchable. By 11:45 the signal was pretty much gone altogether. But 12-1 WHYY was still quite viewable.

17-1 and 29-1 were great all day long...and are still good right now.

Friday ought to be interesting.......

Originally posted by SteveK2
A large water tower being in the direct line of sight might result in some signal loss (i.e., blocked signal), but in the case of multi-path, there is some reflective-type surface that's causing the same signal to hit the antenna with a minimal time delay - or - another nearby signal that is disrupting the fainter signal. I'm no expert, but I think the bigger issue is the weak signal...and secondarily a large reflective surface (the side of a nearby building?).

Just my $0.02.

BTW....I didn't get to see Leno in HD last night....WCAU's signal started fading right @11:35 and the picture was unsteady/unwatchable. By 11:45 the signal was pretty much gone altogether. But 12-1 WHYY was still quite viewable.

17-1 and 29-1 were great all day long...and are still good right now.

Friday ought to be interesting.......

AFA Friday---does the Tropo forecast go for naught if it's not clear and sunny??? B/c Friday is supposed to be rainy I believe :mad:

And, I came across this link in my bookmarks...pretty thorough and interesting site. Of course, for some reason, I was under the impression :rolleyes: that trees didn't affect my reception...see what happens when you don't read....or remember anything :D

http://www.tvantenna.com/support/tutorials/uhf.html

Tropo 'effect' by local weather should be minimal....unless the local weather are thunderstorms that reach high into the atmosphere.

Originally posted by SteveK2
Tropo 'effect' by local weather should be minimal....unless the local weather are thunderstorms that reach high into the atmosphere.

Just checked out the Tropo web site, and there's no data available!

Originally posted by SteveK2
Tropo 'effect' by local weather should be minimal....unless the local weather are thunderstorms that reach high into the atmosphere.

Well then barring a meteor shower we should be in for a treat come Friday!

I see that today, 4/30, WGTW-DT was supposed to go live according to titantv.com. Today, it says this:

IND 27 WGTW-DT Under Review

Hmmmm......tomorrow 4 or 5 other stations (PBS'S and UNI/Spanish) are supposed to go live.

Hi everyone:

I just received authorization from my homeowner's association that I can put up a TV antenna in addition to my dish. I am approx. 40 miles from the Empire State Building and 60 miles from Philadelphia. Right now I use a Silver Sensor on top of my TV which gives me very weak performance since I find it VERY directional.

What I would like to know are the following:

1. Is there a UHF antenna that can pull in signals from both NYC & Philly w/o changing the antena's direction (no rotor)? I noticed that many people in this general area are using the CM4228.....is this the antenna of choice for this are and if so, why is that so?

2. Does a rotor such as the CM9521a work with only specific CM antennas? The CM4228 has a turning radius of 20 inches......what is significant about that terms of performance and any other practical matter?

3. What is a good control device to control the rotor? Is there a readout on it so you know how to point the antenna in the right direction to pull in specific signals?

4. Can you recommend a website or dealer in the area that carries the equipment?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Peter

Well then barring a meteor shower we should be in for a treat come Friday!

...actually, I'd prefer the meteor shower :D ...but then I admit to being a bit weird....

Peter,
I use a CM4228 and a CM3041dsb pre-amp (all without a rotor). I keep it pointed at Philly, since there is more HD emanating from there than from NYC -- for the time being. The CM4228 is tuned for UHF and is very directional...I do not get NYC digitals (UHF) although with the pre-amp, I can get some signal for the NYC VHF channels (Philly VHFs are actually stronger).

Once NYC gets back on-line those channels lost on 9/11, then I'll just swing the antenna around to NYC. There is nothing I'm interested in from NYC (channels 2-1 and 5-1 really only games in town) that isn't available in Philly, but Philly also has ABC, UPN (a couple of them), etc.

The CM4228 is a grid-style antenna with 8 bow-ties. The mesh grid is about 40" x 40"....so turning it requires a 20" radius. This is useful in particular in an attic (where many people, including myself, mount their antennas). Many of the other long-range UHF antenna are the long "boom" type antennas that are very long...less practical to turn inside of an attic. Check earlier in this thread for dealers of the CM4228....I'll have to look for the receipt to remember where I got mine....but I think I heard about it from this forum (and this thread).

I know this doesn't answer all of your questions, but hopefully this info will be useful to you.

Anyone else experience *issues* with 6-1 last night? I got home at around 7:30 , popped up 6-1 and it was unwatchable...down toa 30 on my E86 Signal Meter. By 9pm it was up to a 65.....odd.

Wonder if this is what is going to happen spring/summer??? I never noticed what my SS was until I got home each night at around 7:30 and noticed I had a lock...but that was from February till recently....when it got darker, earlier.

Also----lots of oddness with 34-1....signal fluctuated all night from 0-100, 100-0...multipath like----but the analog for that station doesn't SHOW any signs of multipath. Very odd.

Anyone notice any activity on ANY stations slated to go live today/yesterday???

Originally posted by jaypb
Anyone else experience *issues* with 6-1 last night? I got home at around 7:30 , popped up 6-1 and it was unwatchable...down toa 30 on my E86 Signal Meter. By 9pm it was up to a 65.....odd.

Wonder if this is what is going to happen spring/summer??? I never noticed what my SS was until I got home each night at around 7:30 and noticed I had a lock...but that was from February till recently....when it got darker, earlier.


ABC was fine for me last night (~6:15pm on). All other stations that I typically don't receive, that I've been getting the past couple of nights, have all faded back into the abyss.

Originally posted by PSully
Hi everyone:

I just received authorization from my homeowner's association that I can put up a TV antenna in addition to my dish. I am approx. 40 miles from the Empire State Building and 60 miles from Philadelphia. Right now I use a Silver Sensor on top of my TV which gives me very weak performance since I find it VERY directional.

What I would like to know are the following:

1. Is there a UHF antenna that can pull in signals from both NYC & Philly w/o changing the antena's direction (no rotor)? I noticed that many people in this general area are using the CM4228.....is this the antenna of choice for this are and if so, why is that so?

2. Does a rotor such as the CM9521a work with only specific CM antennas? The CM4228 has a turning radius of 20 inches......what is significant about that terms of performance and any other practical matter?

3. What is a good control device to control the rotor? Is there a readout on it so you know how to point the antenna in the right direction to pull in specific signals?

4. Can you recommend a website or dealer in the area that carries the equipment?

Thanks,
Peter

Let me just add to what SteveK2 has already said:
There are a few omnidirectional antennas on the market. Performance is typically poorer compared to directional antenna (like the CM4228). The two most frequently used outdoor antennas to pick up digital signals (99% in the UHF band) are either the "bow-tie" type like the CM4228, or the Yagi type, which looks a lot like a very large arrow. This is the type I use (the Winegard PR-9032). The former is better suited for attic installation (as Steve mentioned) because it is smaller in length.

Rotators are pretty much interchangable with any antenna. There are, however, several different types which offer a variety of features. The "BMW" of rotators offers a remote control which saves settings for a particular station. As SteveK2 mentioned, I also keep my antenna pointed to Philly, as there is more DT offered there at this time.

There are several online dealers that offer quality antennas and associated equipment. To get a feel for what's offered, take a look at ChannelMaster and Winegard websites. For online buying, check out, Warren Electronics, and Lashen. For local stores, check out Interstate Electronics website. They're located in Hazlet (Rt 35 or 36 I believe).

Hope this helps. Send me a PM if you need additional info.

Originally posted by Calabs
ABC was fine for me last night (~6:15pm on). All other stations that I typically don't receive, that I've been getting the past couple of nights, have all faded back into the abyss.

Damn it! That's what I was afraid of! Trees are growing their leaves....from Philly to me! Unless it's just a slight hiccup? I'll know more as the week goes on. Anyone know off hand if the Philly ABC transmitter is lower on that tower/lower power than the CBS KYW transmitter? Same thing goes for 57-1 (WPSG-DT). I thought they were all in the same "farm". Yet those 2 stations boom like there's no tomorrow compared to WPVI/WTXF (which, BTW was STILL at 100% for me this AM) and WPHL. Was just curious about the comparative stats for those stations. I won't even bring up WCAU :mad: --_SPeaking of which---did you get a response?


I'm almost tempted to hook up a 2nd antenna in a different spot on the roof actually to see if my reception changes! I will be calling D* to activate a 2nd E86 I bought at BB during that 50% off Open Box sale a few weeks ago.I'm thinking about getting a 15"/17" HD LCD TV for the kitchen.....and then hooking up the 2nd E86 up there on the NEW antenna and seeing if I can get better reception off of that set up.

Lots of things swirling in my mind....and the wife don't want to hear ANY of them!!!

Originally posted by jaypb
I thought they were all in the same "farm". Yet those 2 stations boom like there's no tomorrow compared to WPVI/WTXF (which, BTW was STILL at 100% for me this AM) and WPHL. Was just curious about the comparative stats for those stations. I won't even bring up WCAU :mad: --_SPeaking of which---did you get a response?



No response yet from WCAU. Check out this website if you haven't been there already. Go to full listing, then down to PA, Philly, TV. It gives all the pertainant info on where, how high, and how much power each station has.

http://www.100000watts.com

I live in Manalapan. My reception on NBC (10.1) out of Philly was breaking up. I was wondering if it is the leaves coming in on the trees in my yard or if it was NBC.

Thanks,
Ken

Originally posted by SteveK2
Peter,
I use a CM4228 and a CM3041dsb pre-amp (all without a rotor). I keep it pointed at Philly, since there is more HD emanating from there than from NYC -- for the time being. The CM4228 is tuned for UHF and is very directional...I do not get NYC digitals (UHF) although with the pre-amp, I can get some signal for the NYC VHF channels (Philly VHFs are actually stronger).

Once NYC gets back on-line those channels lost on 9/11, then I'll just swing the antenna around to NYC. There is nothing I'm interested in from NYC (channels 2-1 and 5-1 really only games in town) that isn't available in Philly, but Philly also has ABC, UPN (a couple of them), etc.

Yes, there ain't much in NYC now. But, for a shlep like me, who had issues all the time until about a week ago getting 29-1 consistently, 5-1 comes in 100% all the time. If you've got issues pulling in 29-1 that'll be something to think about. Until then....view Philly! I don't think a MAJOR network digitally is slated to go live in NYC until 9/1 (ABC)

Originally posted by SteveK2

The CM4228 is a grid-style antenna with 8 bow-ties. The mesh grid is about 40" x 40"....so turning it requires a 20" radius. This is useful in particular in an attic (where many people, including myself, mount their antennas). Many of the other long-range UHF antenna are the long "boom" type antennas that are very long...less practical to turn inside of an attic. Check earlier in this thread for dealers of the CM4228....I'll have to look for the receipt to remember where I got mine....but I think I heard about it from this forum (and this thread).

I know this doesn't answer all of your questions, but hopefully this info will be useful to you. [/B]

Yes, the CM4228 is a unique design---like a hamburger basket or a BBQ grill. MAkes people scratch their heads when they look at it. I'm STILL the only one I've EVER seen with one on his roof :p

AFA online dealers, do a search for Warren Electronics, Stark Electronics, Spectravox.com or you can even go to Radio Shack if that's more convenient. Don't think they carry any bowtie type antennas though.

Even CM's website has a listing of retailers.

Enjoy!

Originally posted by Calabs
No response yet from WCAU. Check out this website if you haven't been there already. Go to full listing, then down to PA, Philly, TV. It gives all the pertainant info on where, how high, and how much power each station has.

http://www.100000watts.com

Yeah, I'm familiar with the site. There's another FCC type site. I wish I had a chance to put together a detailed listing of ALL the Philly towers---their HAAT, their KW power, which direction they are facing, etc...

That's the only way I can rationalize just WTF I can't get some stations :p

That, added to the fact that, from my limited knowledge of antennas/pre-amps, some UHF channel placements are picked up better by certain antennas-=---right??? I.e .maybe an antenna has a better gain on 14-28 but not 54-67...and if 67 is a marginal signal at best, you aren't going to pick up the station. Does that make sense???

Originally posted by ken6217
I live in Manalapan. My reception on NBC (10.1) out of Philly was breaking up. I was wondering if it is the leaves coming in on the trees in my yard or if it was NBC.

Thanks,
Ken

Ken,

Were you getting WCAU consistently the last few months, or only at sundown or only when mars and jupiter were in alignment? :p

Just curious, because I'm just a bit north of you....and I'm getting that station about 10% of the time compared to most others out of Philly.

What type of antenna do you have? STB? Height of antenna? What does antennaweb.org say is the direction you should have your antenna facing (compass wise???)

Just curious...

Originally posted by jaypb


That, added to the fact that, from my limited knowledge of antennas/pre-amps, some UHF channel placements are picked up better by certain antennas-=---right??? I.e .maybe an antenna has a better gain on 14-28 but not 54-67...and if 67 is a marginal signal at best, you aren't going to pick up the station. Does that make sense???

Well.....sort of. Check out this link to see the antenna I'm using:

http://www.winegard.com/images/pdf/Pr-9032.pdf

The nice thing about using the better know manufacturers like Winegard or Channel Master, is they include data (such as you mention) so you can get an idea what the gain of the antenna is over the entire UHF region. Typically you'll see lower gain at each end of the UHF range with increased gain in the center region. Gain is not the only part of the puzzle, however. Gain is fine, but if you're not picking up the signal, gain does nothing for you. Things like number of elements and boom length contribute to how much signal you will pull in. In the case of WCAU, no signal = no picture, even if you had a preamp capable of give you 100db! :eek:

Originally posted by jaypb
Ken,

Were you getting WCAU consistently the last few months, or only at sundown or only when mars and jupiter were in alignment? :p

Just curious, because I'm just a bit north of you....and I'm getting that station about 10% of the time compared to most others out of Philly.

What type of antenna do you have? STB? Height of antenna? What does antennaweb.org say is the direction you should have your antenna facing (compass wise???)

Just curious...


I also live in Manalapan, on the north end of it. From Philly, I never get FOX, and have break-up problems with NBC and PBS (12-1). Some days those two are quite watchable, but other days not. ABC and CBS come in great.

Originally posted by Calabs
Well.....sort of. Check out this link to see the antenna I'm using:

http://www.winegard.com/images/pdf/Pr-9032.pdf

The nice thing about using the better know manufacturers like Winegard or Channel Master, is they include data (such as you mention) so you can get an idea what the gain of the antenna is over the entire UHF region. Typically you'll see lower gain at each end of the UHF range with increased gain in the center region. Gain is not the only part of the puzzle, however. Gain is fine, but if you're not picking up the signal, gain does nothing for you. Things like number of elements and boom length contribute to how much signal you will pull in. In the case of WCAU, no signal = no picture, even if you had a preamp capable of give you 100db! :eek:


It's a very touch and go type thing this HD reception now isn't it :D

Lots of factors....terrain, antenna height, STB, antenna itself, pre-amp, channel location "in the spectrum", antenna gain, pre-amp gain, wiring, blah, blah, blah..... :D

It's tough to explain this to people who aren't "up to speed" on UHF and digital signals and cable wiring runs and....well you get the picture. The only person I've "gotten into this game" is in Manhattan...and he's got TWC with a few channels pumped to his Cable STB...so he doesn't have to futz with an antenna...so he doesn't "get" the joys of OTA reception....or the many issues involved with it.

For us, here in Central NJ...it's even more maddening what with the issues in Philly (low power, distance) and NYC (no more WTC antenna).

Is it this touch and go in other major metropolitan areas around the country???

And, as you said, it IS a puzzle!!!

BTW---anyone know if those 5/1 start date Digital channels are up and running yet???

Originally posted by palladia
I also live in Manalapan, on the north end of it. From Philly, I never get FOX, and have break-up problems with NBC and PBS (12-1). Some days those two are quite watchable, but other days not. ABC and CBS come in great.

I'm in Monroe....right by Spotswood (613 runs right into Manalapan I believe) and up until a few days ago ABC was solid all the time. Now it's touchy until later in the evening (9:00 ish or so) and CBS is always 100 on my E86 meter. I've yet to see life in 12-1 at all.

10-1 will flutter from 03-18 through most of the day, but when it DOES come in (super rare) I can lock on a solid picture anywhere above 50...but I've yet to see it rise about 65 or so (Tropo nights).

Fox has been iffy---up till the last few days when I've hit 100 on the meter almost every night/overnight/early AM.

I'm still dying over the touch and go-ness of WPVI-DT. I want to make sure I won't have issues come MNF time :mad: as I don't watch many/if any ABC shows religiously....although the Movie of the Week showings (Sunday/Saturday) have been awesome lately especially with all the Disney Cartoons and such.

What kind of antenna are you using? STB? Antenna placement?

Originally posted by jaypb
It's a very touch and go type thing this HD reception now isn't it :D

Is it this touch and go in other major metropolitan areas around the country???


Just let your fingers do the walking on 100000watts.com to see the state of digital TV in the various major markets. Philly actually is not that bad overall; certainly better than NYC, but before 9/11, NYC was kicking butt! :cool: In due time, the Big Apple will be up and running again when the new tower is erected in JC (or was that Bayonne?).

Originally posted by jaypb
I'm in Monroe....right by Spotswood (613 runs right into Manalapan I believe) ..............

What kind of antenna are you using? STB? Antenna placement?

We are REALLY close if you live by the Spotswood border. I live on the south side of E.B. Are you off of Devoe?

It would be intersting to see if your reception improves with a different STB. My Zenith 520 has a 4th generation 8-VSB chip that is pretty sensitive. I can pick up signals with as little as 33% signal strength.

Originally posted by Calabs
We are REALLY close if you live by the Spotswood border. I live on the south side of E.B. Are you off of Devoe?

It would be intersting to see if your reception improves with a different STB. My Zenith 520 has a 4th generation 8-VSB chip that is pretty sensitive. I can pick up signals with as little as 33% signal strength.

DING! DING! DING! I'm a {rocket powered} stones throw from Devoe :D

That's one of the "other" puzzle pieces with these darn HD boxes....the sensitivity of the OTA tuner! I have the Hughes E86...which I've read is a wee bit weaker/insensitive (whatever the word is) compared to other, newer HD receivers. I actually have TWO of them now :D

BTW---I've been perusing that 100000 watts site. I have a question. Why do some of the DT channels show two towers?? And which one is actually being utilized by the station? I use WPSG-DT as an example. That station, is always at 100 for me...yet I see both transmitters listed are relatively low power (107 kw or 250 kw---not sure how to read it) compared to a KYW (770 KW) yet BOTH come in at 100 on my meter (which really doesn't mean much). Yet I have so many issues with WPVI which is at a higher KW (500) and height (1279 Ft).

These are things that make me scratch my head :confused:

Yet, then you factor in which direction the transmitter may be facing, WHERE it is located on the UHF dial, how sensitive your tuner is, which direction your antenna is mounted....and you see where I'm at now :D

http://www.100000watts.com/tv/PHL.html

My Zenith 520 has a 4th generation 8-VSB chip that is pretty sensitive. I can pick up signals with as little as 33% signal strength.

....don't about internal chips, but my Samsung TS-160 will lock solid on any signal @20%.....but these numbers really are not comparable across manufacturers...

Originally posted by SteveK2
....don't about internal chips, but my Samsung TS-160 will lock solid on any signal @20%.....but these numbers really are not comparable across manufacturers...

Yup. Another interesting comparative value that can't be ....percent for percent....compared :D

Originally posted by SteveK2
....don't about internal chips, but my Samsung TS-160 will lock solid on any signal @20%.....but these numbers really are not comparable across manufacturers...

That's a good point. Your right that the 'numbers' cannot be used as a direct comparison. I had a DTV1080 (last year's Zenith model) which had the early VSB chip, and it was not as sensitive as the 520. I could NEVER get a signal reading from WCAU from the 1080, where the 520 gives me a reading, and sometimes an actual picture!

Originally posted by jaypb
BTW---I've been perusing that 100000 watts site. I have a question. Why do some of the DT channels show two towers?? And which one is actually being utilized by the station? I use WPSG-DT as an example. That station, is always at 100 for me...yet I see both transmitters listed are relatively low power (107 kw or 250 kw---not sure how to read it) compared to a KYW (770 KW) yet BOTH come in at 100 on my meter (which really doesn't mean much). Yet I have so many issues with WPVI which is at a higher KW (500) and height (1279 Ft).



Good question - One the station may be best suited to answer. :o
One thing, however, about the broadcasting of WPSG-DT, is that it is an eliptically spaped transmission, so if your the same distance away from the tower as someone else, but they are out of the eliptical transmission pattern, they are SOL. Does that make sense?

Originally posted by Calabs
Good question - One the station may be best suited to answer. :o
One thing, however, about the broadcasting of WPSG-DT, is that it is an eliptically spaped transmission, so if your the same distance away from the tower as someone else, but they are out of the eliptical transmission pattern, they are SOL. Does that make sense?

Yes, I think I understand. One of the websites I came across on this forum actually SHOWS you the transmission pattern....at least I believe it did. Maybe it was the FCC site itself? I think I have it at home bookmarked. I'll have to look for it.

It showed a similar pattern to what your Winegard Antenna pdf file showed if I remember correctly.

AFA the antenna listings, I've inclined to believe if a station shows a "Facilities" and a "CP" listing that "CP" stands for Construction Permit"??? Meaning the tower either hasn't been built yet or they are moving to that tower???

I think Doug's site lists a "CP" under one of the columns...or AP for application status. I think....

Tropo forecast changed a little....now MONDAY looks {potentially} productive as well:

http://www.globalserve.net/~hepburnw/tropo.html

Again, tonight, no 6-1 for me.

Not quite sure what happened to make signal strength drop from a minimum of 65 or so over the last month and a 1/2 to around a 27 tonight and earlier last night....and last night it was viewable by this time 10:00pm.

:confused:

I had ABC tonight and watched a little bit of the first sitcom. I am in Southern Manalapan. Switched to CBS for CSI my SS in the attic locked both Philly and NY. I will be switching to another antenna soon. Hopefully will get Fox and UPN more reliably from Philly.

Found this on the FCC site:

FCC site listing for Philly OTA stations (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?state=&call=&arn=&city=philadelphia&chan=0.0&chan2=69&facid=&list=2&dist=&dlat2=&mlat2=&slat2=&dlon2=&mlon2=&slon2=)

Rich,

I KNOW I saw some sort of a radiating pattern graphic for EACH station in Philly....but I can't find the site for the life of me now. I'm thoroughly pi$$ed now that it seems the season change has caused 6-1 to disappear for me until LATE in the evening....tonight it didn't lock until 11:15pm.

I may try hooking up a 2nd antenna soon in a different spot on the roof.

My wife can't stand when I get so absorbed in this sh....:D

Originally posted by jaypb
Again, tonight, no 6-1 for me.

Not quite sure what happened to make signal strength drop from a minimum of 65 or so over the last month and a 1/2 to around a 27 tonight and earlier last night....and last night it was viewable by this time 10:00pm.

:confused:

HMMMMM.............very strange. KYW still high for you, or has it dropped proportionally as well? Any other channels experiencing lower signal, or just WPVI-DT?

If so, check your connections and make sure they are tight. Also if you are using a pre-amp, you may want to ensure it's working properly as well. BTW, is your antenna grounded? Just a thought.

Originally posted by Calabs
HMMMMM.............very strange. KYW still high for you, or has it dropped proportionally as well? Any other channels experiencing lower signal, or just WPVI-DT?

If so, check your connections and make sure they are tight. Also if you are using a pre-amp, you may want to ensure it's working properly as well. BTW, is your antenna grounded? Just a thought.

I've yet to ground my antenna. That's on the agenda for this month...as I wanted to make sure everything was "in working order" before I took the final step of grounding the mast/antenna. Would that affect only certain channels?

I did the connection check last night---at least those inside the house---but, again, I'm getting the PBS (52 or 43) fine and 3-1 at 100% and 57-1 at 100 %, but it's the WPVI-DT issue that's got me now. Would the trees growing back in make _that_ much of a difference? I went and checked my signal strength this AM and it was at a 72 on my meter for 6-1. I'm sure, when I gethome, it'll be down to a 30 or so again...and creep back up as the sun sets.

As you mentioned, HD reception IS a puzzle...with lots of pieces. I did find this tidbit while googling:

"The 4228 provides more gain on lower UHF channels (below channel 50). Above channel 50, it's not quite as good as the 4221, according to Channel Master's own antenna-range tests. "

http://www.hometheatermag.com/showarchives.cgi?156:2

Now---in my situation....I'm getting 26 (KYW), 32 (WPSG), 43 (WNJN) at 100%....but 42 (WTXF) is hit or miss. Out of NY, 56 (WCBS) and 44 (WNYW) are solid 100%. So, I'm perplexed.....other than to think I *may* want to go out and get an antenna to try that has a HIGH GAIN for the 60-69 channel spectrum (i.e. for WCAU and WPVI). I *believe* that WNBC when it finally goes live will be located at 28 and WABC will be at 45....so I'm in a quandry---wait for them to go live and *hope* I can get them....or attempt to either move my antenna around that I have now to another location....or go buy another one to play around with :confused:

It wouldn't bother me other than the fact that it's ABC! A network that devotes more than a few hours a week to primetime HD programming...and there's the STanley Cup Finals and NBA Playoffs coming up....and of course, MNF in the fall.

So, that's where I'm at. It's either the antenna location (with the leaves coming in now), the STB, or the antenna itself (poor gain for the specific channels coupled with the leaves coming back ....).

I hate thinking when I have to work.....:p

Just think of all the time, effort and money going into this OTA HD stuff. When everything finally gets going it should be as simple as point and aim the antenna at the ESB for most of us.

Did anyone else see on 43 last night the sub channels were backwards from normal? The HD Demo was on 43-1 not 43-2.

Originally posted by jaypb
I've yet to ground my antenna. That's on the agenda for this month...as I wanted to make sure everything was "in working order" before I took the final step of grounding the mast/antenna. Would that affect only certain channels?

It wouldn't bother me other than the fact that it's ABC! A network that devotes more than a few hours a week to primetime HD programming...and there's the STanley Cup Finals and NBA Playoffs coming up....and of course, MNF in the fall.

So, that's where I'm at. It's either the antenna location (with the leaves coming in now), the STB, or the antenna itself (poor gain for the specific channels coupled with the leaves coming back ....).
p

Whoa!! Get that puppy gounded! As you may know already, grounding is necessary. Make sure you not only ground the mast, but also the cable wire just before going into the house. Grounding everything will also result is slightly better reception. You COULD be damaging your display (TV) by NOT grounding the cable. :eek:

It doesn't sound like its your connect OR the leaves. If it was the leaves, all the channels would most likely be affected as the signals are coming from the same direction. Having already gone through spring/summer seasons with leaves, then without, there wasn't that much difference in reception, and my signal has to go through SEVERAL lines of trees.

If you don't get this problem solved before the end of May, I may have to invite you over to watch the Devils and the Ducks (my prediction). ;)

BTW, what display are you using?

Originally posted by MartyJ
Just think of all the time, effort and money going into this OTA HD stuff. When everything finally gets going it should be as simple as point and aim the antenna at the ESB for most of us.

Did anyone else see on 43 last night the sub channels were backwards from normal? The HD Demo was on 43-1 not 43-2.

Actually my E86 didn't even show the 43 sub-channels. It had remapped them to the 52- area. Oddly, 52-2 was actually listed on the screen as WNJT-HD....so I'm not sure what's going on with the re-mapping. Also, my 57-1 was gone...and was listed under 32-1. Odd again :confused:

AFA the ESB.....it can't get here fast enough!!! I'm sure that the hookups will drag on and won't happen by Early September. Things don't work that easily in the world of HDTV do they?? ;)

Originally posted by Calabs
Whoa!! Get that puppy gounded! As you may know already, grounding is necessary. Make sure you not only ground the mast, but also the cable wire just before going into the house. Grounding everything will also result is slightly better reception. You COULD be damaging your display (TV) by NOT grounding the cable. :eek:


You sound like my wife now----"Ground that thing" :D

Obviously that should've been the FIRST thing I did when I came down from the roof....but of course, I didn't :o

Now that thunder and lightning season is here I'm motivated :D

It doesn't sound like its your connect OR the leaves. If it was the leaves, all the channels would most likely be affected as the signals are coming from the same direction. Having already gone through spring/summer seasons with leaves, then without, there wasn't that much difference in reception, and my signal has to go through SEVERAL lines of trees.

AFA the trees/leaves issue goes, that's where I'm a a loss...as you say it's not really affecting the other stations I can receive. Just seems odd that all of a sudden....poof....the signal strength drops until late at night. Having not gone through a spring/summer season as a HD viewer I wasn't sure WHAT to make of this. As the next few weeks progress I'll have more time to futz around (God I hope) and figure it out. I actually have a silver sensor at home that I was thinking about hooking up and "walking the roof" with it to see if I could find a better spot for signals than the one I'm currently using for the CM4228.

If you don't get this problem solved before the end of May, I may have to invite you over to watch the Devils and the Ducks (my prediction). ;)


BTW, what display are you using?


I'm actually not a hockey fan....at all...but after watching a few games on HDNet last month, the quality of a hockey game in HD is too good to pass up staring at :p

I have a Toshiba 50hdx82 monitor. Pretty nice display---although I just started noticing the dreaded "colorburst" on power up/power down....and also *may* have noticed the flicker that seems to be plaguing these sets. I bought it in early January....so I've just got to place a call and get someone in to look at it. Although when I watch HD programming I don't notice much of any problems.

Originally posted by jaypb
Actually my E86 didn't even show the 43 sub-channels. It had remapped them to the 52- area. Oddly, 52-2 was actually listed on the screen as WNJT-HD....so I'm not sure what's going on with the re-mapping. Also, my 57-1 was gone...and was listed under 32-1. Odd again :confused:

Same here. Remap city!

AFA the ESB.....it can't get here fast enough!!! I'm sure that the hookups will drag on and won't happen by Early September. Things don't work that easily in the world of HDTV do they?? ;)

Well, that all depends on how much power they'll be transmitting. Anyone know this info? Because there is limited space on the ESB, I believe they can't go full power. Only when they move to the sight in JC will all be well in HD-NYC land.

Originally posted by jaypb
You sound like my wife now----"Ground that thing" :D

Obviously that should've been the FIRST thing I did when I came down from the roof....but of course, I didn't :o

Now that thunder and lightning season is here I'm motivated :D


Are you planning on grounding the cable too before entering the house? Very important! :rolleyes:

Originally posted by Calabs
Well, that all depends on how much power they'll be transmitting. Anyone know this info? Because there is limited space on the ESB, I believe they can't go full power. Only when they move to the sight in JC will all be well in HD-NYC land.

I just wish that CBS could blueprint for the other stations in NYC ....and Philly WTF to do :D

It seems no matter WHICH WAY I point my antenna Southerly....I pick up KYW.....same thing with WCBS to the North....it's....comforting...:p

I had posed a question earlier in this tome of a thread about whether or not CBS was THIS penetrating in other markets....and I don't know if I received a response. I just find it funny, that the ONLY TWO MAJOR Network stations I can rely on to watch HD programming....are both CBS affiliates :eek:

Wouldn't life be grand if all DT stations boomed like CBS?

Wishful thinking.....

Jaypb,

I have been getting NBC out of Philly 100% of the time unless the weather is bad. By the way, last night I watched ER and I had no problem. Hopefully Wed night was a glitch.

Ken

Originally posted by Calabs
Are you planning on grounding the cable too before entering the house? Very important! :rolleyes:

Yeah. Again though, the reason I didn't was because I wanted to make sure I was happy with the reception at the spot I had the antenna mounted before I started cutting the cable and snipping. Now that I'm questioning my antenna location (at least it's one of my.....pieces of the puzzle) it'll be easier for me if I start dragging the damn antenna all over the roof :D

Originally posted by ken6217
Jaypb,

I have been getting NBC out of Philly 100% of the time unless the weather is bad. By the way, last night I watched ER and I had no problem. Hopefully Wed night was a glitch.

Ken

Ken,

What compass heading does antennaweb.org give you for NBC out of Philly???

Ken,

What type, height antenna do you have? I don't even get a reading on the signal meter for NBC.

Originally posted by ken6217
Jaypb,

I have been getting NBC out of Philly 100% of the time unless the weather is bad. By the way, last night I watched ER and I had no problem. Hopefully Wed night was a glitch.

Ken

OK, we're all OFFICIALLY jealous! ;)

Originally posted by MartyJ
Ken,

What type, height antenna do you have? I don't even get a reading on the signal meter for NBC.

Both Manalapan guys huh? And different esperiences eh Lucy?

Marty,

What type of setup do you have again? STB? Antenna?

I swear I think we've got to add this "vitals" stuff to the first page of this thread....kind of like so we can refer there to see just WHO has WHAT when they describe their experiences eh?
:p

Originally posted by jaypb
Both Manalapan guys huh? And different esperiences eh Lucy?

Marty,

What type of setup do you have again? STB? Antenna?

I swear I think we've got to add this "vitals" stuff to the first page of this thread....kind of like so we can refer there to see just WHO has WHAT when they describe their experiences eh?
:p

Easy enough to place in your profile, no? :rolleyes:

Jay,

My current setup is a Silver Sensor in the attic with a distribution amp attachecd to it in the attic. The antenna feeds a HTPC with a MyHD card for viewing/recording HD. That goes to a JVC G11 DILA PJ onto a 110 inch 16:9 Stewart Grayhawk screen.

With this setup I can reliably recieve CBS and Fox out of NY. CBS from NY comes in no matter where the antenna points.

I currently have the antenna not quite directly facing Philadelphia. I can get 43 PBS out of Trenton and 34 PBS from Philly. I occassionally get UPN and Fox. I consistantly get ABC and CBS.

I only turn the antenna back towards NY on Tuesdays to watch 24 on Fox.

Originally posted by Calabs
Easy enough to place in your profile, no? :rolleyes:

Yup.

I believe i've got my shtuff there....but not everyone does that...or want's to do that...or knows how to do that :D

Ok fellas----think y'all can put yer shtuff in your profile.

STB
Antenna
Pre-Amp
Location of Antenna
Town

Think that'll cover it?