Originally posted by s236
Anybody know what happend to NJN-HD? Is't been a few weeks since the last time I've seen anything.

...a few weeks ago but someone (WWard maybe???) said that NJN was broadcasting their loop after 8pm......yet since then, with my E86's when I tune into 50-5/43-5/51-5 et al....there is NO programming on those channels after 8pm....even whilst there is programming on the 1-4 subchannels.

Something is rotten in Denmark..........:p

Originally posted by jaypb
...a few weeks ago but someone (WWard maybe???) said that NJN was broadcasting their loop after 8pm......yet since then, with my E86's when I tune into 50-5/43-5/51-5 et al....there is NO programming on those channels after 8pm....even whilst there is programming on the 1-4 subchannels.

Something is rotten in Denmark..........:p The HD programming starts roughly at 8pm EDT and continues till midnight Monday through Friday.

On the weekends I have seen times where the HD programming will run till 1am. This is on WNJS UHF 43-1,2,3,4,5 (mapped to 52,1,2,3,4,5) -5 is the HD channel.

Originally posted by wward
The HD programming starts roughly at 8pm EDT and continues till midnight Monday through Friday.

On the weekends I have seen times where the HD programming will run till 1am. This is on WNJS UHF 43-1,2,3,4,5 (mapped to 52,1,2,3,4,5) -5 is the HD channel. I should also note that the demo loop is not being shown WNJS is broadcasting NJN programming some of the stuff is upconverts the balance is HD e.g. "Nature" etc...

Originally posted by wward
I should also note that the demo loop is not being shown WNJS is broadcasting NJN programming some of the stuff is upconverts the balance is HD e.g. "Nature" etc...

Yeah, that's what I meant to say! But it never "matches" the programming info (going back a month or so ago when I DID see programming) that's on my E86's programming guide.

If you can, post tonight after 8pm if you are/aren't seeing programming on the "-5" subchannel. I'm starting to wonder if it's an E86 issue....moreso than a programming issue, as I've had problems with the NJN 43 channel going back to 2003 with regards to quality of signal and whatnot.
:mad:

Originally posted by jaypb
Yeah, that's what I meant to say! But it never "matches" the programming info (going back a month or so ago when I DID see programming) that's on my E86's programming guide.

If you can, post tonight after 8pm if you are/aren't seeing programming on the "-5" subchannel. I'm starting to wonder if it's an E86 issue....moreso than a programming issue, as I've had problems with the NJN 43 channel going back to 2003 with regards to quality of signal and whatnot.
:mad: Will make it a point to watch tonight and I will post it later.

Anyone else picking up PBS 8-1/2 out of New Brunswick?

8-1 has on Nova (same as 50-1/43-1) and 8-2 has on a cooking show and 8-3 seems to be 8-1 in a weird sort of analog??? And there's an 8-4.....but not 8-5. And, oddly, my E86 remaps 8-1:8-4 to 0-1:0-4!!!



:confused:

Anybody getting NJN HD tonight? Nothing here in West Keansburg. It's been like this for the last two weeks for me!

I picked up 8-1/2/3/4, and it got mapped to 0-1/2/3/4, on my motorola HDT100. Same program as 52. Odd, my antenna is pointing towards Philadelphia...

Originally posted by houblon
I picked up 8-1/2/3/4, and it got mapped to 0-1/2/3/4, on my motorola HDT100. Same program as 52. Odd, my antenna is pointing towards Philadelphia...

I'd say it's because of our proximity towards Somerset (where I *think* the antenna is for this PBS station). Not sure of the compass heading (as I haven't been to antennaweb.org in about 10 months :p

I'm facing NYC (52 degrees I believe). And, ironically, I can pick up 43 digital (52) whilst facing NYC....so go figure!

And I finally saw some HD Programming on 43-5 last night.......at around 11pm....so I'm not sure if it's just sporadic as when I checked pre-11pm there was NO audio/video
:confused:

Is PBS out of New Brunswick doing any HD?

Originally posted by dan57
Is PBS out of New Brunswick doing any HD?

From what I saw last night.....no. 8-5 showed no audio/no video. But I didn't check to see if 8-5 was "active" when 43-5 was (after 11pm last night).

I get 0.1/2/3/4/5 (no HD on 5, no picture),
3, 6.1/2/3, 10, 12.1/2, 17.1/2, 29, 35, 52.1/2/3/4/5, 57, 65.1/2.
This is already more than antennaweb shows for my location. I have a RShack 100in VHF/UHF antenna in my attic, pointed towards Philadelphia. Just got a CM 7777.

Is there anything else that I could pick up (content wise) with a better antenna? I guess I could get an UHF only antenna like the square shooter or the CM 4228.

All signals are fairly strong but the Motorola HDT100 signal meter is an enigma. Sometimes I get pixelation, but I'm not sure it is because of a low signal or if it is the content. 52.5 HD comes in perfectly, but 52.1 is sometimes (the britcoms on saturday) horribly pixelated at fast motion or at backgrounds. I suppose this is because of SD with too much compression, not low signal strength?

Looks like a pretty decent tropo night (3/4 midnight EDT). The Silver Sensors picked up

11-1 WBAL-DT Baltimore
13-1 WJZ Baltimore
16 WBOC Del Marva Peninsula

WBAL's digital signal looks like crap! Looks like it may be the analog signal upconverted yuck!!

I live in Westfield NJ, which is about 20 miles from NYC and about 60 miles from Philly. I have a new, pretty good large Radio Shack antenna (which cost me about $100) and a Radio Shack pre-amp/amp. I was wondering whether I'd have any chance at getting the Philly signals. Like many people, I've been having a lot of trouble with NBC from New York (although I had been getting a decent signal for a few days, I completely lost it last night and still don't have a signal). With the Olympics coming up I want to do whatever I can to get NBC. I'm not confident that NBC New York will finish the upgrade by the Olympics, nor do I think that NBC will be added to DTV by that time. Does anyone have any thoughts?

I recently put up a CM4228 in my attic and I can pull in all of the digital channels no problem. Except on WPSG-DT I only get video and no audio. Not sure of the signal strengh since I have the Samsung TS360 and the signal meter is not to be trusted.

Any ideas as to why I have problems with only that station..

Newbie to ota here. Have had comcast for about a year now. I live in Tuckerton nj which is about 30 miles north of atlantic city. My problem is all my hd network channels through comcast are new york, go 4 miles west of me into burlington county and the locals are philadelphia. The only channel im interested in is fox philadelphia. Im a huge eagles fan and dont want to be stuck watching the giants in hd instead. Directv sunday ticket is out of the question, im not signing a year contract for football season. I live in a 2 story townhouse and want to try an attic install. Roof is out of the question as its a townhouse. According to antennaweb fox is 56 miles from me. Any hope at all with an attic antenna with preamp?? Dont want to buy an ota receiver, antenna and amp if there is little or no hope. Thank you for your time.

Mike

Is anybody getting NJN-HD channel 50-5? I use to get it after 8 p.m. but not lately.

Thanks

Please Help.... I installed a CM3679 antenna on top of a bilevel. I am only trying to get the New York City HD feeds. I have many thick 50ft+ trees about 100 ft away directly in the line of sight path of the antenna. I have researched the correct compass setting and the antenna is aimed correctly. (CBS comes in around 90 out of 100%). I have a CM7777 amp installed also. Here's the problem. I can only get CBS and ABC in HD. Fox barely registers and NBC does not register at all. I border the Parkway in Middletown. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

i think trees are my issue now too. in the winter i was pulling in all channels fine, but then i installed a CM777 amp and now they are a lot worse. i have a few large trees directly in my way though.

I border the Parkway in Middletown. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Joisey, I live in Hazlet (West Keansburg) and I have the Channel Master 4228 and the CM7777 amp in my attic and with my LG HD reciver LST-3100A I'm receiving CBS-DT, NBC-DT, FOX, WOR, ABC-DT, PAX, NJN-DT 1,2,3,4 and was getting NJN-HD 5-1. Not to familiar with the CM3679 but you may want to try the CM 4228. I got mine from IEI at the Airport Plaza in Hazlet.

Hope this helps!

Can any one tell me if this station is alive right now. Just installed CM7777 and lost 29-1 to hot in attic to rewire just to see if its the preamp.

TIA!

Cooler in the attic today tweaked antenna all is well. seems preamp widened channel locations.

s236..... Do you have trees to contend with. I still believe I should be getting more than WCBS-DT and WABC-DT ???

TIA, I'm not getting 29-1 just 29-2 threw 29-11. Are you getting NJN 54-5 HD channel? I use to get the HD broadcast after 8 pm but for the last few week I'm getting nothing but black screen. Please check tonight and post.

Thanks, Tony

s236..... Do you have trees to contend with. I still believe I should be getting more than WCBS-DT and WABC-DT ???

Joisey, I have one tree top in the way. I also live about 8 blocks from the bay where I have a clean sight of NYC.

Tony

Awful Quiet ????

Hey njfoses, I'm in Stafford Twp and get all Philly DT channels fairly reliable with a 2nd story mounted Antennasdirect 91XG with a rotor, Winegard AP-4800 Preamp and Hughes E86 receiver. Poor weather means poor signal but after twilight can get WCAU, WPVI, WKYW, WTXF, WPHL, WHYY and WPSG with rare dropouts. Good luck!

Has Fox 29 DT moved their transmitter or boosted their power recently? Up until this week the signal has been too weak to tune reliably here (just north of Trenton). The past week it has been coming in strong and clear.

I haven't seen any change in FOX. Haven't been receiving them in almost two years.

I got NJN-HD last night for a little while before the picture started breaking up. What was odd was that my signal strength stayed the same just the picture was breaking up. Anybody having this problem as well?

Tony

Originally posted by s236
I got NJN-HD last night for a little while before the picture started breaking up. What was odd was that my signal strength stayed the same just the picture was breaking up. Anybody having this problem as well?

Tony

This is what typically happens with a strong signal multipath interference. Both the primary and multipath signals are well above the tuning threshold and the tuner isn't able to lock on the primary one. I understand the latest ATSC tuner designs are a bit better at dealing with this kind of multipath problem. Sometimes re-booting the tuner can stabilize/lock the signal.

This is what typically happens with a strong signal multipath interference. Both the primary and multipath signals are well above the tuning threshold and the tuner isn't able to lock on the primary one. I understand the latest ATSC tuner designs are a bit better at dealing with this kind of multipath problem. Sometimes re-booting the tuner can stabilize/lock the signal.

Fred, Thanks for your reply. Are you receiving NJN-HD? I'm able to receive NJN1,2,3,4 just fine, and I was always able to receive NJN-HD until recently. My tuner is the LG LST-3100A is re-booting like re-scan? Or should I unplug the tuner for a re-boot? Because I scan all the time and still no NJN-HD. Thanks for any help!

Tony

s236,

Just turning the tuner off and on should re-boot it.

Re. NJN, I'm about 5 miles from the channel 52 tower (which is near the Quaker Bridge mall @ Rt1), so 52.1-52.5 (NJNT - on DT ch43 (52.n)-Trenton) do generally come in strong. I sometimes notice that 52.2 to 52.5 display a black screen when there is no active program being transmited. My tuner, an SIRT-150, will show a green LED light for these dormant channels, which I think is indicating that an active pilot signal is still being received. Up in W. Keansburg you are probably receiving one of the other NJ PBS stations WNJN on DT ch58 (50.n)-Montclair, or WNJNB on DT ch18 (58.n)-New Brunswick. I believe they are also broadcasting HD programing on their .5 sub channel but it may not be on all the time either. All the NJ-PBS DT channels seem to have stopped broadcasting the HD demo loops in favor of more current HD programs, so they no longer seem to be transmiting a continuous HD channel.

Thanks fredd!

Tony

I know I've been too busy to spend much time on the forum, but I was really surprised to see how the Central NJ OTA thread has gone totally dormant.

I notice that 57-1 in Philly *still* has no sound. Otherwise, no new OTA channels have appeared recently that I am aware of.

Anything new to report out there?

SteveK2, Thanks for waking up this thread from the dead! A lot of us were using the OTA New York thread to post on New Jersey subjects.

Tony

hmmm...ok....i'll stop by that thread to see any news.

Also, my guess is that some of the OTA activity has become muted because of the carriage of CBS, NBC, and soon FOX and ABC on Directv.

But I still love the real-time weather radar from WPVI Philadephia on 6-3.

Originally posted by SteveK2
hmmm...ok....i'll stop by that thread to see any news.

Also, my guess is that some of the OTA activity has become muted because of the carriage of CBS, NBC, and soon FOX and ABC on Directv.

But I still love the real-time weather radar from WPVI Philadephia on 6-3.

On my part, there's very little bitching to be done since NBC/ABC went live from NYC :D

And too much bitching makes Jack a dull boy.....or something like that :p

Honestly, I haven't turned either of my CM4228's towards Philly since *probably* April or so ?!?! The only thing I'm "missing" out on is the UPN signal and PBS ocassionally as my 50-1:4 and 21-1:3 signals are spotty at best. But, I have a VHF/UHF winegard pre-amp on one antenna that picks up 8-1:4 out of New Brunswick....but, alas, there is no HD subchannel there.

Does 43-5 still "exist"??? Or has the WHOLE PBS industry in NYC/NJ shut down the HD subchannel?

Maybe for $hit$ and giggle$ I'll turn back towards Philly to fester about NOT being able to pick up 10-1 or 29-1 reliably :eek:

i have dishnetwork though :( why can't they do the same?!

Is WNJT (Channel 52) broadcasting? I haven't received them since Monday.

Just curious if anyone else noticed any "new" channels going live lately??

I just happened to be tooling around checking out some signal strength on WCBS-DT in light of all the work they've been doing on their antenna lately.

I noticed that Digital channel 40 (WXTV-DT), a Spanish station is "live"....and I don't *think* I ever noticed it before. I also noticed that WNYE-DT (Digital 24) is live as well.

Anyone else??

Is WNYE analog channel 55 on D*? I was watching CSI last night on this station (from 2000; God everyone looked young(er))!

Originally posted by Calabs
Is WNYE analog channel 55 on D*? I was watching CSI last night on this station (from 2000; God everyone looked young(er))!

I believe WNYE is channel 25---a PBS channel out of somewhere in NYC.
I still had it as of last night.

I find it pretty funny that I can receive not 1.....but TWO digital Spanish stations.. and a smattering of PBS stations....and no WPIX and UPN9 !!!

But, it's NOTHING like the anger and unhappiness I felt about the Digital/HD situation last year at this time :p

Ahhh, the digital revolution......

Anybody else having a problem with WPVI 6.1 our of Philly? I'm in Princeton and have been getting it for over a year, and just recently the signal strength has really dropped. Tonight I couldn't get it at all. Wondering if anyone else is having a problem with ABC out of Philly, or maybe I need to go up and see if my antenna moved.

WPVI has been strong and steady for me up north of you in Hillsborough. They have been dropping the ball lately on audio for Lost and Desperate Housewives though.

Originally posted by wade325
Anybody else having a problem with WPVI 6.1 our of Philly? I'm in Princeton and have been getting it for over a year, and just recently the signal strength has really dropped. Tonight I couldn't get it at all. Wondering if anyone else is having a problem with ABC out of Philly, or maybe I need to go up and see if my antenna moved.

Originally posted by monetnj
WPVI has been strong and steady for me up north of you in Hillsborough. They have been dropping the ball lately on audio for Lost and Desperate Housewives though.

Does WPVI still have that "flashing green line" down the side issue that I remember them having on HD broadcasts ?!?! I haven't had my antenna turned towards Philly in quite some time, but I remember that being my main complaint when they had HD programming on.

:confused:

Hello,

This is the first time posting on this forum, and I would like to know whether I am in the right place to receive HD signals from both New York City and Philadelphia. I live in East Windsor, which is located near the Mercer-Middlesex county line.

Also, I would like to know how good the reception is for the HD channels in my area. Is the reception good enough that I will consider buying a Samsung SIR-T451 set-top-box and a Terk HDTV indoor antenna?

no green line on my set but the audio screwups at the beginning of every 'Lost' episode are killing me.

Originally posted by megamii
Hello,

This is the first time posting on this forum, and I would like to know whether I am in the right place to receive HD signals from both New York City and Philadelphia. I live in East Windsor, which is located near the Mercer-Middlesex county line.

Also, I would like to know how good the reception is for the HD channels in my area. Is the reception good enough that I will consider buying a Samsung SIR-T451 set-top-box and a Terk HDTV indoor antenna?

I am also in East Windsor.. I can only get Philly well enough, and I get all of the major Philly stations no problem. (ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS, UPN, WB) plus a few others..

I have been able to get CBS NY if I swing the Antenna around, but that is it..

Originally posted by megamii
Hello,

This is the first time posting on this forum, and I would like to know whether I am in the right place to receive HD signals from both New York City and Philadelphia. I live in East Windsor, which is located near the Mercer-Middlesex county line.

Also, I would like to know how good the reception is for the HD channels in my area. Is the reception good enough that I will consider buying a Samsung SIR-T451 set-top-box and a Terk HDTV indoor antenna?

I live in West Windsor and can receive both Philly and NY depending upon which way I face my antenna. Fox and PBS out of Philly are difficult for me to receive. From NY I can receive CBS, ABC and Fox. NBC from NY currently is not broadcasting from the Empire State Building so they are impossible to get in our area. For some strange reason my antenna receives NBC from Philly even though it is pointed to NYC.

Don't buy a Terk!

Someone in the HDTV Hardware forum told me that the Terk indoor HDTV antenna is not worth it. What about the indoor HDTV antenna from Zenith, called the Gemini ZHDTV1? I understand that it will only receive UHF channels, and since many of the digital channels in Central New Jersey are in UHF, I do not need a separate VHF antenna?

I am little bit down RT33 in Southern Manalapan and can get both NYC (all the big 4) and most of Philadelphia. Depends which way I put the antenna in the attic.

I live in Central New Jersey, about equal distance from NYC and Philadelphia (65 miles each way). I would like to pick up the digital Hi-Def channels from each city. In addition, I would be interested in picking up the higher band VHF channels. What would be the best "Deep Fringe" antenna, CM 4228 or CM 3020, for me?

If someone in this forum can think of a better antenna than the two listed above, let me know.


I enjoy this forum.

lman12

i'm in flemington- which is I think 40 miles to philly and about 50 to NYC. Remember its line of site- not roads. Are you sure you are 65 miles both ways- antennaweb gives distances if i recall- so you can double check. Too lazy to look at a map but I would quickly figure that to be 65 from both you would would need to be closer to atlantic city or the pocono's then central NJ.

Anyhow-


I have a 4228 in the attic and can only get fox and cbs out of new york (with a preamp. Theoretically once theyt get off their rears and do the combiner i will be able to get everything. Philly i can get everything (even the some delaware stations which apparently share towers with the philly stations) with or without the preamp.

Based upon that and assuming 65 miles to each i would GUESS the 4228 with a preamp MIGHT work in your attic and PROBABLY would work on a decent sized mast on your roof. (for all of philly and fox+CBS from NY- the rest from NY later)

Hi,

Just had an antennae installed in the attic and now CBS, ABC, and FOX (NYC 2,7, and 5) come in with signal strength between 75 and 95.

What's odd is NBC is ~15-20... Are they beaming off of another tower than the others? I also don't see WPIX. I'm in Hillsborough.

How are others doing and has anyone heard what's up with the combiner project?

Thanks,
Tom

Originally posted by tmtech
Hi,

Just had an antennae installed in the attic and now CBS, ABC, and FOX (NYC 2,7, and 5) come in with signal strength between 75 and 95.

What's odd is NBC is ~15-20... Are they beaming off of another tower than the others? I also don't see WPIX. I'm in Hillsborough.

How are others doing and has anyone heard what's up with the combiner project?

Thanks,
Tom

NBC is coming off of the GE Building IIRC whereas CBS and Fox are on the ESB and ABC is off of the Conde Nast (??) building. If you go to Antennaweb.org you can get some compass headings that may enable you to tweak the direction of your antenna to pick up NBC (although it is at lower power than the other major networks in NYC...and some folks in Central NJ have issues picking it up).

As for WPIX that's probably a REAL longshot....REAL LONG. I think 14 people in all of NJ can pick it up :D It's on at very low power IIRC and it's a VHF signal (Channel 12) AND I think it's not very "high" up antenna wise AND I believe it's signal doesn't really "radiate" on a coverage map "towards" NJ.

Have you thought about trying to pick up the major networks from Philly ?!?!

Originally posted by jaypb
AFA NJN......hmmm. It seems that whenever (after 8pm that is) I tune to 52-5 or 51-5....I see a black screen....yet there is other programming on subchannels 1-4. Is my timing just bad?


Hi there.

I've been working at NJN since August. I'll double check what's going on but the general scoop is this:

We RECORD the HD programmingto a HDTV DVR. It is then time-shifted via a schedule to play at a later date. There is NO HD programming until 8pm and it runs only for four hours until 12pm. When we turn on the HD, we cut out two other channels to free up bandwidth for the HD content.

There has been some problem the past week or so with the HD. I'd have to check with the engineer to find out what the issue was and the resolution.

We have several antennas in NJ that cover the entire state. I'm in Piscataway, NJ. I have more trouble receiving 51-x than I do 58-x. You might want to try the 58 grouping.

Lately we've been doing R&D on something called Datacasting. I'm actually in the Datacasting group. That's one reason I don't know exactly what's going on in Digital Air. But, I'm in there on a regular basis and I can get the direct scoop. Datacasting also eats up bandwidth. We were turning off the JerseyVision channel every night at 8pm to allow for some datacasting runs.

At any rate, I'll see what the scoop is and get back to you guys with the info. :)

I don't know when it started happening but the strongest station I USED TO receive was CBS.

I'm on a Samsung SIR-T150 with roof antenna pointed at the ESB. I used to get CBS strongest, nada with NBC, no problem with 5-1,5-2 and no problems with 7-1,7-2.

Now I get NOTHING on 2-1. What's changed?

I tried again last night for CSI and nothing. :(

Thanks!

Originally posted by rlindabury
Hi there.

I've been working at NJN since August. I'll double check what's going on but the general scoop is this:

We RECORD the HD programmingto a HDTV DVR. It is then time-shifted via a schedule to play at a later date. There is NO HD programming until 8pm and it runs only for four hours until 12pm. When we turn on the HD, we cut out two other channels to free up bandwidth for the HD content.

There has been some problem the past week or so with the HD. I'd have to check with the engineer to find out what the issue was and the resolution.

We have several antennas in NJ that cover the entire state. I'm in Piscataway, NJ. I have more trouble receiving 51-x than I do 58-x. You might want to try the 58 grouping.

Lately we've been doing R&D on something called Datacasting. I'm actually in the Datacasting group. That's one reason I don't know exactly what's going on in Digital Air. But, I'm in there on a regular basis and I can get the direct scoop. Datacasting also eats up bandwidth. We were turning off the JerseyVision channel every night at 8pm to allow for some datacasting runs.

At any rate, I'll see what the scoop is and get back to you guys with the info. :)

Thanks for the updates----it's always nice to have someone on the inside :cool:

Luckily, I have one of my CM4228's hooked up to a VHF/UHF Wingard pre-amp....so I can pick up 58 (Digital 8) on that TV....but I haven't noticed an HD feed on the "-5" subchannel even after 8pm. Has there been one yet? I know lately I've seen the HD programming come back on 43-5 (52-5) as well as 51-5 (50-5)....but not 58-5 (8-5).

Either way ANY info is welcome info.......:D

Yeah, what gives with the 50-x channels?? :confused:

I get a solid signal on 50-5 but get a black screen. I recall this being discussed a while back, but can't remember what the outcome was. Any help?

Originally posted by rlindabury
I don't know when it started happening but the strongest station I USED TO receive was CBS.

I'm on a Samsung SIR-T150 with roof antenna pointed at the ESB. I used to get CBS strongest, nada with NBC, no problem with 5-1,5-2 and no problems with 7-1,7-2.

Now I get NOTHING on 2-1. What's changed?

I tried again last night for CSI and nothing. :(

Thanks!

I watched Without a Trace last night on CBS with no issues. CBS out of NYC for me as well has always been strong....and it's never waivered under 100 on my E86 signal meter. Does your SIR-T150 need to do a "re-scan" if it loses a channel for whatever reason? I believe that CBS and FOX were off the air a few nights ago because work was being done....maybe you can try resetting the box if the re-scan doesn't work ?!?!

:confused:

Originally posted by Calabs
Yeah, what gives with the 50-x channels?? :confused:

I get a solid signal on 50-5 but get a black screen. I recall this being discussed a while back, but can't remember what the outcome was. Any help?

If you get a chance try 43-5 (52-5) to see if the HD loop/programming is running there after 8pm tonight. IIRC it was on last night after 8---Rudy Maxa maybe ?!?!? (Some travel/food show was on when I tooled by)

Or, we can just blame it on McGreevey.....:D

Originally posted by jaypb
If you get a chance try 43-5 (52-5) to see if the HD loop/programming is running there after 8pm tonight. IIRC it was on last night after 8---Rudy Maxa maybe ?!?!? (Some travel/food show was on when I tooled by)

Or, we can just blame it on McGreevey.....:D

Thanks J, I give it a try. My STB recently got a firmware upgrade and wiped out all my custom channels. It's a real B*#CH to plug them back in again, so I have to keep the 43/52 series alive for a while.

Not sure if I'm the ONLY one out there who watches CSI:NY, but my co-workers were just commenting that CBS in NYC cut away from the last 5 minutes of the show to announce Arafat's death....and never went back to the closing of the show. Now we watched the show on 2-1....and I could've sworn there was no interruptions....but for the life of me I can't even REMEMBER how the show ended after they nailed the boyfriend.

So my question: Did the HD feed stick with the show while the SD feed went to the newsflash? Or is my fragile little mind warped ?!?!?

:p

Originally posted by Calabs
Thanks J, I give it a try. My STB recently got a firmware upgrade and wiped out all my custom channels. It's a real B*#CH to plug them back in again, so I have to keep the 43/52 series alive for a while.

No problem. I was hoping to see the HD loop come back the way it was over year ago....but I haven't noticed that yet. I still think that the HD loop was a GREAT way to show off HD to friends/family/detractors who were in the house and NEEDED to be edjumacated.

:p

Originally posted by jaypb
Not sure if I'm the ONLY one out there who watches CSI:NY, but my co-workers were just commenting that CBS in NYC cut away from the last 5 minutes of the show to announce Arafat's death....and never went back to the closing of the show. Now we watched the show on 2-1....and I could've sworn there was no interruptions....but for the life of me I can't even REMEMBER how the show ended after they nailed the boyfriend.

So my question: Did the HD feed stick with the show while the SD feed went to the newsflash? Or is my fragile little mind warped ?!?!?
BTW, CBS just recently issued an apology for that saying it was an overzealous network news director who should not have done that, and they're re-running the episode tonight. So I would suspect we won't see that sort of thing happen again for awhile, lest the news director get more than a hand-slap.

I noticed that both 58-5 and 52-5 are now broadcasting a signal. The only programs are on from 8 thru 9pm. with a short clip around 9:30 and 10. The past few weeks there has been no audio or video signal at all.

Originally posted by HoundBaby
I noticed that both 58-5 and 52-5 are now broadcasting a signal. The only programs are on from 8 thru 9pm. with a short clip around 9:30 and 10. The past few weeks there has been no audio or video signal at all.

So it's a "right place right time" type of thing eh? I guess when I'm tooling by it's not on then.....or moreso when I'm tooling by 52-5 it's on.....but the TV I was viewing at the time doesn't have access to 58-5 (since it's Digital Channel 8....) because that particular setup doesn't have a VHF passthru on the pre-amp.

I'll have to try both channels tonight. If anyone catches an HD program on either 51/52/58-5 holler out!

Originally posted by jaypb
Thanks for the updates----it's always nice to have someone on the inside :cool:

Luckily, I have one of my CM4228's hooked up to a VHF/UHF Wingard pre-amp....so I can pick up 58 (Digital 8) on that TV....but I haven't noticed an HD feed on the "-5" subchannel even after 8pm. Has there been one yet? I know lately I've seen the HD programming come back on 43-5 (52-5) as well as 51-5 (50-5)....but not 58-5 (8-5).

Either way ANY info is welcome info.......:D

Hay Jay you have 2 antennas facing different farms right? can you explain the process of doing this as the wife is now getting pissed about not getting the Giants in HD and im tired of "moving" my dish with D*.
Ive got a CM4228 and a preamp pointing towards philly. what else do i need?

Originally posted by webboy10169
Hay Jay you have 2 antennas facing different farms right? can you explain the process of doing this as the wife is now getting pissed about not getting the Giants in HD and im tired of "moving" my dish with D*.
Ive got a CM4228 and a preamp pointing towards philly. what else do i need?

My setup consists of 2 TOTALLY independent CM4228's with pre-amps AND remote controlled CM rotors. One set up feeds 2 different HDTV's. The other feeds another TV. The reason I did this was because the 3 TV's are on different sides of the house....and I didn't want to run THREE total Coaxial lines and run the risk of signal loss or anything along those lines.

Both antenna's currently face NYC. I did turn the rotor to face Philly a few weeks ago when TLOTR's was on the WB in HD. Other than that I don't really watch any HD out of the Philly area. If UPN or WB had ANY sports on in HD I'd be there in a heartbeat (i.e UPN with the 6'ers or Phillies) and the WB with any college games they air.

You're situation could *probably* be remedied with a rotor hookup. Run the wires and control it from the comfort of your couch/easy chair whenever you want to watch something from either city.

Originally posted by jaypb
Thanks for the updates----it's always nice to have someone on the inside :cool:

Luckily, I have one of my CM4228's hooked up to a VHF/UHF Wingard pre-amp....so I can pick up 58 (Digital 8) on that TV....but I haven't noticed an HD feed on the "-5" subchannel even after 8pm. Has there been one yet? I know lately I've seen the HD programming come back on 43-5 (52-5) as well as 51-5 (50-5)....but not 58-5 (8-5).

Either way ANY info is welcome info.......:D

Hi Jay,

Uh.. we ALWAYS pump out HD at 8PM. The only time we don't is when there's a problem. :)

The most recent problems have been other things killing the broadcast. We've been doing a lot of datacasting R&D and tests and there have been issues with our Datacasting making our system cut out the HD! The system can't handle datarates over what's set. It just kills the program.

Normally we notice the problem right away and fix it. We're working on ways to stop this problem from happening.

Because we are a JUNIOR PBS affiliate, we have to delay broadcast of the HD content for eight days from when it airs originally on the full affiliates like WHYY or WNET. So, we pass-through the programming delayed by eight days or so. We record it to a custom HDTV DVR that schedules playback.

We aren't a full affilliate because it costs several million dollars more per year to be a full affilliate.

We output five digital channels. The first four originate analog and are encoded for digital broadcast. We turn off two channels from 8pm - 12 midnight (PBS YOU and PBS KIDS). This frees up bandwidth for the HD.

I'll double-check the deal with the various transmitters. All of them should be outputting the exact same programming.

-- Bob

Originally posted by jaypb
I watched Without a Trace last night on CBS with no issues. CBS out of NYC for me as well has always been strong....and it's never waivered under 100 on my E86 signal meter. Does your SIR-T150 need to do a "re-scan" if it loses a channel for whatever reason? I believe that CBS and FOX were off the air a few nights ago because work was being done....maybe you can try resetting the box if the re-scan doesn't work ?!?!

:confused:

Heh.. I remember what happened. I used to have a preamp and it wasn't sealed as well as it should have been and rusted out. I had to remove it.

Since then I haven't been fooling with the HD for many reasons. At any rate, I added another mast and put in a RS rotor. I still have the RS attic antenna up on the whole setup and I can get CBS, ABC, FOX, NJN, etc. but all at very low levels. Guess I'll have to grab a preamp and, at some point, a replacement antenna.

I had to punch in 2 to get CBS because it was off my channel map. Anyway, I'm back to receiving everything I did before. Thanks for the insight.

Hmm..

Ok. I checked both Digital 8 (58-5) and (52-5). I can pick both up no problem and they're both showing the exact same program as they should.

It's 9:14pm on Nov 30th and they're showing some kinda country 50th Anniversary show. Looks good but I'm kinda miffed that it's not DD5.1 audio!

I'm going to have to check into that and see what's going on. I'll check on the audio tomorrow and see what I can get going on that because I talk to the engineer in charge of that stuff everyday. Our audio muxes do 5.1. Not sure what the scoop is but I'll see.

Wonder if that show originally had DD5.1 audio. Seems to me it should have. ;)

Ok.. I'm here at NJN and there IS an issue with the AC3.

The engineer is working on it now. We should be able to send out full DD5.1 programs soon. We have all the equipment and so far it looks like it might be a configuration issue but we have to troubleshoot.

We are also checking the file on the HD DVR. The George Jones 50th Anniversary music special originated in DD5.1.

I'll let you all know what the scoop is as I find out.

Enjoy!

PS: I'm not a country music fan.. I just happened t o tune in and notice the show wasn't full surround and I figured something like that HAD to have originated with full surround.

Originally posted by rlindabury
Ok.. I'm here at NJN and there IS an issue with the AC3.

The engineer is working on it now. We should be able to send out full DD5.1 programs soon. We have all the equipment and so far it looks like it might be a configuration issue but we have to troubleshoot.

We are also checking the file on the HD DVR. The George Jones 50th Anniversary music special originated in DD5.1.

I'll let you all know what the scoop is as I find out.

Enjoy!

PS: I'm not a country music fan.. I just happened t o tune in and notice the show wasn't full surround and I figured something like that HAD to have originated with full surround.

Thanks for the due diligence. There's NOTHING better than having someone "on the inside" who ACTUALLY cares about the delivery of this fandangled programming!

Originally posted by jaypb
Thanks for the due diligence. There's NOTHING better than having someone "on the inside" who ACTUALLY cares about the delivery of this fandangled programming!
Being the person on the inside might possibly be better. ;)

Welp, we've narrowed the problem down to the decoders/encoders and the way we're doing the pass-through from the HD DVR to transmission.

Direct from the HD DVR to the Decoder results in full DD 5.1 audio. So, what we're recording and pushing from the DVR has the full AC3 audio.

Hopefully we'll have this worked out ASAP.

I'll try to keep you guys updated.

Originally posted by dswallow
Being the person on the inside might possibly be better. ;)

Glad I could be of assistance in serving that one up to ya....:D

Nice spike!

Just checked 58-5 and 52-5 , no audio or video.

Originally posted by HoundBaby
Just checked 58-5 and 52-5 , no audio or video.

I concur that as of 9:17pm there is NOTHING on 58-5. Unable to get a signal on 52-5 without rotating my antenna....and I'm watching something on 2-1 so I don't feel like hitting the rotation button on the rotor :cool:

But, my E86 programming guide stats "To BE ANNOUNCED" on 58-5 from 9-10pm.

Originally posted by jaypb
I concur that as of 9:17pm there is NOTHING on 58-5. Unable to get a signal on 52-5 without rotating my antenna....and I'm watching something on 2-1 so I don't feel like hitting the rotation button on the rotor :cool:

But, my E86 programming guide stats "To BE ANNOUNCED" on 58-5 from 9-10pm.

Are you saying you got signal but there was nothing on or you had no signal at all?

I'll check today what the problem was.

Also realize that I don't have anything to do with the HD output from NJN. I'm working on Datacasting. I just have access to the engineer in charge of the HD. He was working on it yesterday and said the audio issue should be fixed by Friday.

I'll see what I can do about the no programming issue. As I said previously, there should ALWAYS be HD programming from 8pm-12pm.

Hi Bob!
Please check when you NJN guys will be broadcasting HD again, its been spotty for the last month. Had something last week (even though its the same shows all week) but this week nothing...52-5 is just a black screen.

Donating NJN Member, Tony

Originally posted by rlindabury
Are you saying you got signal but there was nothing on or you had no signal at all?

I'll check today what the problem was.

Also realize that I don't have anything to do with the HD output from NJN. I'm working on Datacasting. I just have access to the engineer in charge of the HD. He was working on it yesterday and said the audio issue should be fixed by Friday.

I'll see what I can do about the no programming issue. As I said previously, there should ALWAYS be HD programming from 8pm-12pm.

Bob,

I had programming on 8/58-1, meaning a pic and sound. But when I went to 58-5 it was black....and my signal strength was mid 90's IIRC. I have a D* Hughes E86 STB. If you get a chance, on the NYC OTA thread there have been a few posts about issues with the 50-5 feed out of Montclair....with similar issues. Might they be related as a PBS NJ HD issue?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=4732798#post4732798

Originally posted by jaypb
Bob,

I had programming on 8/58-1, meaning a pic and sound. But when I went to 58-5 it was black....and my signal strength was mid 90's IIRC. I have a D* Hughes E86 STB. If you get a chance, on the NYC OTA thread there have been a few posts about issues with the 50-5 feed out of Montclair....with similar issues. Might they be related as a PBS NJ HD issue?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=4732798#post4732798

Ok.. just to be clear ALL the channels come out of here, Trenton. They are then broadcast out of all our transmission towers around the state. There are four of them in NJ that cover the entire state with the exception of maybe Cape May. Montclair is one of OUR towers. The programming is exactly the same on all these channels and we're running x-1 through x-5 with 5 being the HD.

Our towers are as follows:

Montclair - WNJN-DT (51) maps to 50
New Brunswick - WNJB-DT (8) maps to 58
Trenton - WNJT-DT (43) maps to 52
Camden - WNJS-DT (22) maps to 23

If there's a problem here, it's going to affect ALL the various transmission points. On the other hand, if there's a problem with a specific transmission tower, only that one will be out.

The problem last night was that a PSIP generator box failed here in Trenton. This cut the x-5 feed to all towers. We have the people who supplied us the box coming in to look at it today.

The standard-def DT channels go through some different equipment than the HD so if something dumps the HD out, 58-1,2,3,4 can still be broadcast. However, we always turn off x-2,x-3 at 8pm to free up the bandwidth for the HD programming until 12 midnight.

In reality we are also taking on our DATACAST to this using a bit more bandwidth. Special receivers are required to receive the datacast info. Datacasting is in R&D.

Originally posted by trend1
Hi Bob!
Please check when you NJN guys will be broadcasting HD again, its been spotty for the last month. Had something last week (even though its the same shows all week) but this week nothing...52-5 is just a black screen.

Donating NJN Member, Tony

Hi there Tony!

Um.. we broadcast HD every day 8pm to 12 midnight. :)

Unless there's a problem. :rolleyes:

We've been experiencing some issues lately with some new initiatives and hardware failures and I'm very sorry for that. What this means is just tune into your local tower on the #5 channel at 8pm and you should receive our HD programing any day of the week.

Let me know here if you have a problem and I'll do my best to have the problems fixed. Also please realize that I'm neither in charge of the HD transmission nor do I have authority to make any changes. However, I can discuss issues with the engineers and make suggestions.

Now if only I could pick up NBC! ;)

I get nothing when it comes to NBC. I wish something would be resolved with the tower situation in NYC soon. :p

Originally posted by rlindabury
...

Our towers are as follows:

Montclair - WNJN-DT (51) maps to 50
New Brunswick - WNJB-DT (8) maps to 58
Trenton - WNJT-DT (43) maps to 52
Camden - WNJS-DT (22) maps to 23
...

thanks for all the inside info.

Are all four towers transmitting at reasonable power levels? I'm in flemington and cant quite seem to get anything- although one would think trenton and New Brunswick would be possible. I'm trying to figure out if it's something wrong on my end or if I'm just too far until you folks boost power.

thanks

Mike

Originally posted by michaelk
thanks for all the inside info.

Are all four towers transmitting at reasonable power levels? I'm in flemington and cant quite seem to get anything- although one would think trenton and New Brunswick would be possible. I'm trying to figure out if it's something wrong on my end or if I'm just too far until you folks boost power.

thanks

Mike

Mike,

What STB are you using ?

Originally posted by michaelk
thanks for all the inside info.

Are all four towers transmitting at reasonable power levels? I'm in flemington and cant quite seem to get anything- although one would think trenton and New Brunswick would be possible. I'm trying to figure out if it's something wrong on my end or if I'm just too far until you folks boost power.

thanks

Mike

I just talked to our transmission tower person and he says that from Flemington you should be able to get both New Brunswick AND Trenton. The issues you have to be concerned about are trees and mountains. If they're in the path, you might have trouble. He also said there's a mountain line between Flemington and Trenton and that the New Brunswick tower would probably be your best bet.

I asked about power and it seems that the Camden output power is going to be majorly boosted to over 100,000 watts! New Brunswick will also get a boost in power. There's a lot of paperwork and stuff before that happens so don't expect any power increases until spring or so.

As far as current power goes, our towers cover the whole state with the current power output. There are some fringe areas but most issues would be all the way down south. I didn't find out what the current power is for the towers but they are all different output levels.

thanks for the info.

I'm using an HD-DirecTivo.

For me the best bet would be to pick up trenton- but i cant get scrath that way- I think he's dead on about the mountain- I'm on the wrong side of the "sourland mountains" I think.

THe NB channel is tougher for me to finagle but maybe i'll give it a better go since he things its possible. I'm using a CM4228 so it probably wont get channel 8- but the strange thing is sometimes it actually does- so i cant figure out what happens. IT'll get me 50's on the signal strangth meter and then just all of a sudden die out. I have one of those Terk/radio shack bar antenna's from when i lived within site of the WTC and tried that but- man it really is worthless- just in the 20's or maybe 30's so not enough to get a picture. To complicate it all my antenna(s) are in the attic. Generally no problem becasue the front of my roof aims to NYC and the Back to Philly but New Brunswick is more ont eh side of the house which has aluminum siding. So I need to really fiddle with the location in the attic and then aim to get an angle through the shingles and not the siding (all the while not hosing my Philly and NY reception).

Guess I'll figure out a good antenna for channel 8 and work from there. The positive is my preamp has an input for UHF and a seperate for VHF so i can easily combine what i have to something for channel 8 and get the best of both worlds.

But ya- know - i just checked antenna web and I was off in my math by about 25 degrees so maybe thats why i have been having trouble...

Good luck with your adjustments.

Just for comparison, I'm in Piscataway and I can pick up both New Brunswick AND Trenton. I'm using a pretty small Radio Shack attic antenna VHF/UHF and I have a rotor. No preamp at this point. I live in a bi-level and I have the antenna up on the peak with two 6' masts. It's still shooting right into trees. :) I can pick up either depending on where I rotate the antenna to. I'm using a Samsung SIR-T150 receiver.

Also, I left NJN today at 5:30pm and they were STILL trying to figure out what's wrong with the PSIP generator. Heheh I don't know what's going to happen with the HD tonight based on that. :)

Ok.. just to be clear ALL the channels come out of here, Trenton. They are then broadcast out of all our transmission towers around the state. There are four of them in NJ that cover the entire state with the exception of maybe Cape May. Montclair is one of OUR towers. The programming is exactly the same on all these channels and we're running x-1 through x-5 with 5 being the HD.

Hey Bob, Tonight I'm getting HD on 52-5! My antenna is pointed toward ESB so I'm not sure where I'm getting the NJN signal. But its working tonight.

Thanks for your professional input!
Tony

Just checked 58-5 . I get nothing here

Originally posted by HoundBaby
Just checked 58-5 . I get nothing here

Just checked 58-5. No picture/audio....guide states "TO BE ANNOUNCED". I am receiving programming on58-1. Also checked 50-5 (guide states "TO BE ANNOUNCED")....I AM getting a picture (Travel show about St Louis ?!??!) . Watching 2-1 out of NYC so don't feel like rotating the antenna towards Philly to see if 52-5 is coming in.

Hughes e86 STB

I played a little last night to see which of these NJ PBS stations I could pick up. I am in East Brunswick - can't be more than five miles or so from the New Brunswick transmitter. Couldn't get a lick out of it on 58-5, no matter which direction I rotate the antenna. I gather that this is broadcast over VHF - my antenna is UHF only. I got 52-5 though, loud and clear. So, I guess that's okay by me if the programming is identical. Interesting program about Lewis and Clark.

Originally posted by michaelk
THe NB channel is tougher for me to finagle but maybe i'll give it a better go since he things its possible. I'm using a CM4228 so it probably wont get channel 8- but the strange thing is sometimes it actually does- so i cant figure out what happens. IT'll get me 50's on the signal strangth meter and then just all of a sudden die out. I have one of those Terk/radio shack bar antenna's from when i lived within site of the WTC and tried that but- man it really is worthless- just in the 20's or maybe 30's so not enough to get a picture. To complicate it all my antenna(s) are in the attic. Generally no problem becasue the front of my roof aims to NYC and the Back to Philly but New Brunswick is more ont eh side of the house which has aluminum siding. So I need to really fiddle with the location in the attic and then aim to get an angle through the shingles and not the siding (all the while not hosing my Philly and NY reception).

Guess I'll figure out a good antenna for channel 8 and work from there. The positive is my preamp has an input for UHF and a seperate for VHF so i can easily combine what i have to something for channel 8 and get the best of both worlds.

But ya- know - i just checked antenna web and I was off in my math by about 25 degrees so maybe thats why i have been having trouble...

I actually can pick up VHF channels with my CM4228....granted I do have a VHF capable pre-amp on it, but I can actually get a "passable" signal on 7 and above when my D* is out due to rain/snow....and I'm probably 25 or so miles from the Xmitters in NYC.

I'm also A LOT closer to New Brunswick than you are with regards to picking up digital 8 with the pre-amp....but I'm thinking that the pre-amp *may* even be "overloading" the signal strength because I sometimes see pixelation even with a 95-100 signal on digital 8.

:confused:

Still no picture on 52-5 and 58-5

Originally posted by dan57
I played a little last night to see which of these NJ PBS stations I could pick up. I am in East Brunswick - can't be more than five miles or so from the New Brunswick transmitter. Couldn't get a lick out of it on 58-5, no matter which direction I rotate the antenna. I gather that this is broadcast over VHF - my antenna is UHF only. I got 52-5 though, loud and clear. So, I guess that's okay by me if the programming is identical. Interesting program about Lewis and Clark.

Yes, 8 (58) is VHF not UHF. The rest are all UHF. I'm pretty sure the programming coming off all our towers is the same.

According to this thread, the combiner project up on the ESB will start low power testing this week....

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=478246

It's about time!

help! anyone close to south plainfield who can maybe take a look at what's wrong with my setup? just finally hooked up my 4228a and 7777 channel master. not getting anything. tried both ny(70 deg) and phil(240-244).

thanks

how 'bout describing what you did and we'll see if we can help.

Is the antenna in the attic- on the roof?

Where is the 7777 mounted?

Where do you have the power injector for the 7777?

Are you using OTA only or DBS or cable also?

Here's a couple links for you guys interested in the NJN digital broadcasts.

Here's a link to the Digital page:

http://www.njn.net/digital/schedule.html

This tells you the channels and the times they air and has links to the various programming schedules for each channel.

The following link tells you the channels we are on:

http://www.njn.net/television/channels/

Hopefully this information will clear up some of the confusion with what channels we broadcast on and the HD programming schedule.

I'll provide as much advance inside information here as I can and I will keep an eye on the issues with the HDTV broadcasts.

Originally posted by rlindabury
Here's a couple links for you guys interested in the NJN digital broadcasts.

Here's a link to the Digital page:

http://www.njn.net/digital/schedule.html

This tells you the channels and the times they air and has links to the various programming schedules for each channel.

The following link tells you the channels we are on:

http://www.njn.net/television/channels/

Hopefully this information will clear up some of the confusion with what channels we broadcast on and the HD programming schedule.

I'll provide as much advance inside information here as I can and I will keep an eye on the issues with the HDTV broadcasts.

Thanks for the links. I'll be interested in seeing if the Chris Isaak Soundstage special is indeed on next week....as the postings on the HD Programming forum last week talking about this show left me yearning/hoping to see it in our area.
:mad:

Originally posted by jaypb
Thanks for the links. I'll be interested in seeing if the Chris Isaak Soundstage special is indeed on next week....as the postings on the HD Programming forum last week talking about this show left me yearning/hoping to see it in our area.
:mad:

Hopefully we'll be able to get the AC3 audio fixed by then. :rolleyes:

I'm really looking forward to getting the HD broadcast rock solid with full surround as it should be. I'll continue bugging the engineers to get it fixed ASAP. ;)

how 'bout describing what you did and we'll see if we can help.

Is the antenna in the attic- on the roof?
its on the roof hooked to a pole and the pole on a tripod. everything at warren electronics

Where is the 7777 mounted?

the preamp is hooked to the 4228a by uhf and the vhf going down to the other part down in the basement and then to the receiver

Where do you have the power injector for the 7777?

the power is sent down to the garage


Are you using OTA only or DBS or cable also?

i have a winegard ota initially, i have directv triple lnb

thanks for responding.

not quite following you but I'll have a go at describing what you want to do.

Connect the coax from the 4228 to the UHF in on the pre-amp with a short length of cable (physically attach the pre-amp to the pole close by the antenna).
THe output of the preamp should be run inside the house to the power injector.
(unless you have a seperate vhf antenna there shold be no conection to that spot on the pre-amp).
Connect the cable from the other end of the power injector to your tv (make sure to install the power injector so the power is flowing towards the preamp and not towards your tv).
that is basically it. (assuming you are not running through a mulitswitch)

You should be able to get something out of NY- try CBS and FOX- they are the easiest for me to get down here in flemington. If you can get both CBS and FOx then very soon you should be able to get the other main stations as they are all starting to share the CBS antenna in the next few days/weeks.

Hi everyone, I’m new to this forum and like to know have anyone know any thing about the Terk’s HDTVo HDTV antenna. I have limited attic space and do not want to put up an outdoor antenna if I do not have to. Thanks for the information!:confused:

thanks michaelk, i have to check out what the connections are .

Originally posted by future_fit
Hi everyone, I’m new to this forum and like to know have anyone know any thing about the Terk’s HDTVo HDTV antenna. I have limited attic space and do not want to put up an outdoor antenna if I do not have to. Thanks for the information!:confused:


The general consensus is that the Terk's are overpriced and not worth it. Reception is no better than a much less expensive Yagi or some of the other Channelmasters or Winegards. Save your money! I'm also in E.B., and use a Winegard UHF antenna with a preamp. Was able to even pick up all the Philly stations before turning my antenna to NYC.

Originally posted by future_fit
Hi everyone, I’m new to this forum and like to know have anyone know any thing about the Terk’s HDTVo HDTV antenna. I have limited attic space and do not want to put up an outdoor antenna if I do not have to. Thanks for the information!:confused:

I fit a CM4228 into my attic and its full of trusses- was a pain to get it thorough the hatch though- I had to drill out a few rivits to break it down into 2 parts than put it back together with nuts and bolts.

With that I can get all of philly. WIth a pre-amp I can get fox and cbs out of NY (so after the combiner i should get all the big guns from NY.)

BUT if you are worried about space- try a silver sensor. They are similar in size to those bommerang type antenna's that the pimp limo's of the 80's had- not much bigger than a large dictionary. With a silver sensor in my attic I can get philly- so you might be able to get NY and/or philly with that. You can buy it at Sears so if it doesnt work you can return it and go for something bigger.

Originally posted by dalegen
help! anyone close to south plainfield who can maybe take a look at what's wrong with my setup? just finally hooked up my 4228a and 7777 channel master. not getting anything. tried both ny(70 deg) and phil(240-244).

thanks

I love in South Plainfield also, but only have antennas in my attic. To this date the only signal I have ever received is from the NJN station on VHF 8. I wonder if there is something obstucting our "view" of NYC. I'd be interested to see what your results are.

Originally posted by Calabs
The general consensus is that the Terk's are overpriced and not worth it. Reception is no better than a much less expensive Yagi or some of the other Channelmasters or Winegards. Save your money! I'm also in E.B., and use a Winegard UHF antenna with a preamp. Was able to even pick up all the Philly stations before turning my antenna to NYC.
Thanks for the info I will try it and let you know how I do.:D

Originally posted by michaelk
I fit a CM4228 into my attic and its full of trusses- was a pain to get it thorough the hatch though- I had to drill out a few rivits to break it down into 2 parts than put it back together with nuts and bolts.

With that I can get all of philly. WIth a pre-amp I can get fox and cbs out of NY (so after the combiner i should get all the big guns from NY.)

BUT if you are worried about space- try a silver sensor. They are similar in size to those bommerang type antenna's that the pimp limo's of the 80's had- not much bigger than a large dictionary. With a silver sensor in my attic I can get philly- so you might be able to get NY and/or philly with that. You can buy it at Sears so if it doesnt work you can return it and go for something bigger.

Thanks I try different thing as the user of this forum suggest.:)

those using the 4228a and 7777 channel master, do you make sure their grounded?

Originally posted by dalegen
those using the 4228a and 7777 channel master, do you make sure their grounded?

Regardless of what antenna you use, it should always be grounded if you use it outside. :cool: The cable just prior to going into your house should also be grounded.

thanks. have to get it grounded asap.

Not sure if everyone is following the NY OTA thread, but here's the latest WRT WPIX-DT (Digital 33) going "live" from the combiner:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=4838060#post4838060

(POST #3552)

I haven't been able to "get" the signal yet....but it's possible I was tuning in when there was no signal....or my STB (Hughes e86 D*) needs a reset/re-scan...

If ANYONE in the area gets digital 33 via a Hughes E86 please post.Thanks!

I was receiving the station last night but it was gone this AM.

Originally posted by Johnr0836
I was receiving the station last night but it was gone this AM.

If anyone "gets" it, could they post when it's "up" today ?? So then I can do a "Scan" and see if my STB's pick it up.

Thanks!

33-1/38-1 both coming in at 100 solid on my D* Hughes E86 receivers.

Interestingly, I can't tune in 11-1 after a re-scan. 11-1 "gives" me the WPIX guide info....but if I tune to it my receiver seems to want to tune to "digital" 12.....but if I tune to 33-1 it "re=maps" to 11-1...and everything is fine.

But it's doable....and 11-2 had Raymond in Spanish.

That was interesting....

:p

Talk about being happy... I'm recieving every NY station CBS-DT, NBC-DT, FOX-DT, ABC-DT, UPN-DT, WPIX-DT the only missing station is PBS 13-DT! Also recieving the all the Trenton NJN/HD channels. The only spotty channel for me is WLIW21-DT.

Merry Christmas to me!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays all!

We've made a lot of headway at NJN this past week. The Engineer has fixed the PSIP issues we were having so there shouldn't be any more drop outs of the HD channel.

Remember, we only broadcast HD on the x-5 HD channel from 8pm to 12 midnight.

And the best news, the AC3 surround sound has been fixed! That's right, you'll now be able to get all 5.1 (3/2) programs in full surround!

All the Soundstage shows are 5.1.

I'd also like to reitterate that I'm only a contractor at NJN and I have nothing to do with the digital broadcasts and I don't speak for NJN in any way, shape or form.

Originally posted by rlindabury
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays all!

We've made a lot of headway at NJN this past week. The Engineer has fixed the PSIP issues we were having so there shouldn't be any more drop outs of the HD channel.

Remember, we only broadcast HD on the x-5 HD channel from 8pm to 12 midnight.

And the best news, the AC3 surround sound has been fixed! That's right, you'll now be able to get all 5.1 (3/2) programs in full surround!

All the Soundstage shows are 5.1.

I'd also like to reitterate that I'm only a contractor at NJN and I have nothing to do with the digital broadcasts and I don't speak for NJN in any way, shape or form.

Thanks for the update! Any info, whether approved or not (as long as it's from the inside I'll listen) , is welcomed here !

:p

Originally posted by jaypb
Thanks for the update! Any info, whether approved or not (as long as it's from the inside I'll listen) , is welcomed here !

:p

Heheh.. yup.

I'm in a position to pass comments and suggestions to people that make decisions and work on various aspects of NJN engineering and programming.

I think it's a good idea to have some feedback from the actual viewers. I read this forum on my own time and I pass information along to people in NJN.

If anyone has suggestions on programming, I'd be interested in hearing them and I'll see what I can do about passing the suggestions on to the people who program the HD.

I've already suggested that the HD aspect of NJN's broadcasting schedule should be highlighted. That people are clamoring for HD content. We have the whole state covered with our signal and we even overlap into PA and NY. That's a lot of potential HD viewers.

Now that NJN has pretty much worked out the kinks in broadcasting the HD, I think it'd be a good idea to turn the attention to the programming. We are going to up the power at a few of our towers next year so our signal is going to be one of the strongest available throughout NJ.

I can't promise anything but if you have some thoughts on programming, feel free to shoot me a line and I'll complile what I get and see if I can pass them along.

Happy Holidays!

Is anyone aware of any problems (signal, low power, etc) associated with receiving Philly's WHYY digital channel (DT WHYY 55-Maps to 12.1 on my STB). I live in Central NJ and receive all other Philly digital stations broadcasting in HI-DEF except WHYY.

lman12

is anyone close to south plainfield getting wb? i tried both philadelphia, and new york but still dont get it. thanks

Its not working here too at this time

We're running Stevie Winwood in a Soundstage presentation tonight (started at 10pm) instead of our normal programming for anybody interested.

It's in full HD and FULL AC3 (DD5.1)! :)

I've confirmed that it's working fine on my Samsung SIR-T150 here in Piscataway.

Sorry for the late notice. :(

Enjoy! :D

Also, we've ordered and will be installing some new Rebranding equipment. The current equipment seems to have been causing some problems resulting in people not being able to tune into our HD some nights.

This should be fixe in the very near future. If you can't get our HD for some reason, you may have to use re-scan on your receiver.

Originally posted by rlindabury
We're running Stevie Winwood in a Soundstage presentation tonight (started at 10pm) instead of our normal programming for anybody interested.

It's in full HD and FULL AC3 (DD5.1)! :)

I've confirmed that it's working fine on my Samsung SIR-T150 here in Piscataway.

Sorry for the late notice. :(

Enjoy! :D

Also, we've ordered and will be installing some new Rebranding equipment. The current equipment seems to have been causing some problems resulting in people not being able to tune into our HD some nights.

This should be fixe in the very near future. If you can't get our HD for some reason, you may have to use re-scan on your receiver.

Bob---pretty timely of you to post this....as I tuned by last night to 58-5 and had NO picture and NO sound for the Soundstage presentation! But then when I went to 50-5 I saw Stevie boy with glorious sound and picture....so I was going to come here this AM and post but you'd already explained what *may* be the problem!

I recently replaced one of my DirecTV Hughes E86 HD receivers with an RCA DCT210 receiver....and did a rescan over the weekend and "SAW" HD programming on Sunday....but last night there was NO 58-5 to be seen. I wonder if many folks don't "tune" into 58-1:5 because they don't have either a VHF antenna to "get it"....or they have a UHF only pre-amp on their setups....thereby negating their ability to "see" Digital 8??

I'm only able to pick up 58-1:5 in the kitchen because that TV/STB/Antenna has a VHF/UHF preamp (with a CM 4228 antenna--UHF antenna that picks up VHF channels with minimal problems) while the other setup has a UHF only pre-amp (yet also a CM4228 antenna). I'm able to "get" 50-1:5 and 52-1:5 on both antennas so that's how I *usually* am able to figure out when something is wrong with the HD feed out of PBS.

Either way it's STILL nice to know that someone is "on the inside" spitting out info for those of us who are scratching their heads going "WTF?" after spending 2 hours on Sunday setting up our ....set-ups!

:D

I'll try a re-scan later tonight.

I watched Stevie on Digital 8 last night no problem after I punched the channel number into my receiver. My Sony STR-DA5000ES lit up the blue surround light as soon as I tuned in and I was happy. :)

I'm not an expert in this but if you don't have an antenna that's going to pickup VHF frequencies and you're using a UHF only preamp, I'd guess you aren't going to "get" Digital 8 since it's VHF.

I have a VHF/UHF antenna up on my roof with rotator so I can get Digital 8 (VHF) as well as all the UHF stations.

Even without a preamp, I can pickup Trenton and Montclair no problem by rotating the antenna. I can pick up Philly stations and NYC stations. I'm having absolutely no luck at all with any NBC. CBS used to be ok from NYC, but now I can't get it from NYC but can from Philly. Go figure!

At any rate, the Steve Winwood Soundstage presentation is scheduled to run at 10pm through Sunday for anybody interested.

I'm trying to get our HD broadcast stability improved here at NJN and we've made some pretty good progress in the past few weeks including fixing PSIP issues and getting AC3 working. :)

I feel NJN should really take advantage of the superior signal we broadcast throughout the state. No matter where you are in NJ, you should be able to pickup our digital programming from a nearby tower.

With that kind of coverage, I'd really love to see more HD programming but that's a very difficult nut to crack. ;)

Anyway, I'm happy to help in any way I can. Enjoy!

Originally posted by jaypb
Bob---pretty timely of you to post this....as I tuned by last night to 58-5 and had NO picture and NO sound for the Soundstage presentation! But then when I went to 50-5 I saw Stevie boy with glorious sound and picture....so I was going to come here this AM and post but you'd already explained what *may* be the problem!

I recently replaced one of my DirecTV Hughes E86 HD receivers with an RCA DCT210 receiver....and did a rescan over the weekend and "SAW" HD programming on Sunday....but last night there was NO 58-5 to be seen. I wonder if many folks don't "tune" into 58-1:5 because they don't have either a VHF antenna to "get it"....or they have a UHF only pre-amp on their setups....thereby negating their ability to "see" Digital 8??

I'm only able to pick up 58-1:5 in the kitchen because that TV/STB/Antenna has a VHF/UHF preamp (with a CM 4228 antenna--UHF antenna that picks up VHF channels with minimal problems) while the other setup has a UHF only pre-amp (yet also a CM4228 antenna). I'm able to "get" 50-1:5 and 52-1:5 on both antennas so that's how I *usually* am able to figure out when something is wrong with the HD feed out of PBS.

Either way it's STILL nice to know that someone is "on the inside" spitting out info for those of us who are scratching their heads going "WTF?" after spending 2 hours on Sunday setting up our ....set-ups!

:D

I'll try a re-scan later tonight.

Originally posted by rlindabury
I'm not an expert in this but if you don't have an antenna that's going to pickup VHF frequencies and you're using a UHF only preamp, I'd guess you aren't going to "get" Digital 8 since it's VHF.

Something about the UHF only pre-amp blocking out any "non" UHF signals.

I have a VHF/UHF antenna up on my roof with rotator so I can get Digital 8 (VHF) as well as all the UHF stations.

I actually have both antennas on rotators (from the 2003 "season" when NYC OTA signals were a horrid affair for those of us in central NJ....post 9/11....and for me, living in an area that was only like 20 feet above sea level it was rough.... :p

Even without a preamp, I can pickup Trenton and Montclair no problem by rotating the antenna. I can pick up Philly stations and NYC stations. I'm having absolutely no luck at all with any NBC. CBS used to be ok from NYC, but now I can't get it from NYC but can from Philly. Go figure!

When I first started almost 2 years ago, CBS from Philly was my HD saving grace! Made me (to this day) a loyal CBS HD viewer. My first OTA HD signal (other than the old HD loop that ran on PBS out of Trenton) I ever saw was "Without a Trace" IIRC....oh the memories....

At any rate, the Steve Winwood Soundstage presentation is scheduled to run at 10pm through Sunday for anybody interested.

I'll have to make a mental note. 10pm is HD viewing time tonight though. I'll have to pop back and forth on commercials....oh to get an HD TIVO :D



I'm trying to get our HD broadcast stability improved here at NJN and we've made some pretty good progress in the past few weeks including fixing PSIP issues and getting AC3 working. :)

I feel NJN should really take advantage of the superior signal we broadcast throughout the state. No matter where you are in NJ, you should be able to pickup our digital programming from a nearby tower.

With that kind of coverage, I'd really love to see more HD programming but that's a very difficult nut to crack. ;)

Anyway, I'm happy to help in any way I can. Enjoy!

As I said, the PBS station out of Trenton was my first REAL introduction to HD viewing. And I do still miss the HD "flyovers" on the loops that they used to run....and that Rosie Perez 10 minute "mini-HD movie" that they used to run....and the one with Ashley Judd.

Any idea if they'll ever throw those back on??? :cool:

Originally posted by jaypb
As I said, the PBS station out of Trenton was my first REAL introduction to HD viewing. And I do still miss the HD "flyovers" on the loops that they used to run....and that Rosie Perez 10 minute "mini-HD movie" that they used to run....and the one with Ashley Judd.

Any idea if they'll ever throw those back on??? :cool:


Ahhh..........Ashley Judd................Oh, sorry.......back on topic.

I recall when ALL we had was the HD loop on PBS. Many were getting sick and tired of watching it. Now that it's gone, we long for it! Human behavior!!! :rolleyes:

Originally posted by Calabs
Ahhh..........Ashley Judd................Oh, sorry.......back on topic.

I recall when ALL we had was the HD loop on PBS. Many were getting sick and tired of watching it. Now that it's gone, we long for it! Human behavior!!! :rolleyes:

Or the good old days when there was one reliable HD station out of NYC (CBS) and my daily bitching about being unable to pick up NBC reliably out of Philly because I was practically below sea level in Monroe.

:p

Ah, the memories......

HD in the NYC market really HAS improved leaps and bounds!!! If only DirecTV could've provided the HD locals 2 years earlier..... :rolleyes:

Hello,
I live in Piscataway and I'm trying to see if I'll be able to get Free OTA HD broadcasts from NY from where I live. I live in a first floor condo and I'm hooked to satellite dish from a nearby neighbor. Looking at the info I got from antennaweb.org, I am about 30 miles from most NY towers. The only station I can probably pick up with a good signal is PBS in New Brunswick. Any suggestions on STB HD receiver and antenna? I do have a Jensen TV930 amplified VHF/UHF indoor antenna (up to 45 db gain) that I can barely pick a few analog stations (NJN, WNJU, WXTV, PAX, etc).

Thanks,
Roberto

Where are you in Piscataway?

I've got a somewhat small Radio Shack attic antenna up on my roof. My house is a bi-level so you may as well say 2-story. I have it on a 12' mast with a rotor and I can pickup all NYC channels and if I swing it around, most Philly channels.

I have a Zenith Silver Sensor also and I was able to pick up NYC stations but at a very low signal level.

I currently run a Samsung SIR-T150 receiver. I don't know if you can find them anymore as the 150 is an older receiver and there are several newer models out. Some of the newer receivers are supposed to be better in picking up stations. I like my 150 because it has RGB out and the newer ones don't.

Be aware that NJN New Brunswick is Digital 8 and is VHF so if you get a UHF only antenna, you may not be able to pick it up. You should be able to pick up the Trenton signal though because I can but you'll have to rotate your antenna.

I live towards the Possumtown/Birch run drive road area (exit 8 off i-287), very close to Middlesex boro.

I went ahead, just for testing, and got that cheap USdigital HD receiver from Walmart. I tried it for a few days to see if I can reception of a least some digital channels. Since I live in a first-floor condo, I can't use an outdoor antenna, so I tried to use one of my indoor VHF/UHF amplified antennas (RCA). I do have an EDTV, but I just tried to use component inputs for my regular tv (480i) for testing purposes.
Of course, I had to play around with rotating the antenna to get good reception since I'm like 30 miles from most NYC stations.

Here's a list of channels that I can get from my area (antennaweb.org):
Assignment
* yellow - uhf WPXN-DT 30.1 PAX NEW YORK NY GOOD Signal
* yellow - vhf WNJB-DT 8.1 PBS NEW BRUNSWICK NJ Excellent Signal
* green - uhf WNJU-DT 36 TEL LINDEN NJ No signal
* green - uhf WCBS-DT 2.1 CBS NEW YORK NY Good signal
* lt green - uhf WABC-DT 7.1 ABC NEW YORK NY poor signal
* red - uhf WWOR-DT 38 UPN SECAUCUS NJ good signal
* red - uhf WNYW-DT 5.1 FOX NEW YORK NY good signal
* red - uhf WNJT-DT 43.1 PBS TRENTON NJ poor signal
* red - uhf WXTV-DT 41.1 UNI PATERSON NJ good signal
* violet - uhf WNJN-DT 51.1 PBS MONTCLAIR NJ no signal

I did notice that NJN has several digital stations at 58-1,58-2,58-3,58-4,58-5 (PBS-HD). Most of these I could get with a decent signal, but sometimes it would break up(pixelation and lockup).
I also noticed on the program guide: WPIX-DT, WNBC-DT,WXPLUS-DT(NBC 4 Weather),WFUT-DT, but I got poor signals on these stations.
All in All, the USdigital reciever found about 15 channels. I would imagine that the digital signal will get better for those stations that are not transmitting at full power.

Hey Bob,

Can you confirm if 58-5 has been "off" the last couple of weeks on the HD subchannel ? I did a re-scan a few weeks ago after you mentioned that one might be needed but I STILL get black screen/no audio....but channel banner info for this subchannel each night I tune in....yet I DO get audio/video on the 58-1:4 subchannels at the same time.

Strange....:confused:

And, at the same time, 50-5 HAS HD programming (i.e after 8pm)

Anyone else able to pick up 58-5 last night at 9pm when the Dead Sea special was on (which BTW was pretty cool :cool: )

It seems that there's an issue with killing the HD programming all day and only activating it at 8pm which causes various information to change as far as subchannels. NJN is working on replacing some of the equipment to alleviate the issue.

If you scan the channels while the HD is on, you'll be set. However, if you then tune into our channel (on the 58 tower at least) when the HD channel is off, your receiver may determine that 58-5 is no longer valid.

I was told that at this point, until we change things, you will have to rescan each night to get the 58-5 channel. This is only a temporary problem.

We're also looking at broadcasting a slate all day instead of completely cutting the channel out during the day.

The Dead Sea special is upconverted. :eek:

Originally posted by rlindabury
It seems that there's an issue with killing the HD programming all day and only activating it at 8pm which causes various information to change as far as subchannels. NJN is working on replacing some of the equipment to alleviate the issue.

If you scan the channels while the HD is on, you'll be set. However, if you then tune into our channel (on the 58 tower at least) when the HD channel is off, your receiver may determine that 58-5 is no longer valid.

I was told that at this point, until we change things, you will have to rescan each night to get the 58-5 channel. This is only a temporary problem.

We're also looking at broadcasting a slate all day instead of completely cutting the channel out during the day.

The Dead Sea special is upconverted. :eek:

Interesting about the re-scan only during programming on 58-5 idea. For the record I notice this on an RCA DTC210 D* receiver.

And I didn't even notice that it was an upconvert. I was just so damn mesmerized over how much salt is in that body of water! :p

Can anyone tell how the receiver handles the mapping of channels? Like, channel 43 is displayed as 52 etc. Is this information in the signal?

The last couple of weeks my receiver would change the assignments frequently. 43 would show up as 43, then 52. 54 used to be displayed as 17.1, now it is 54.3 (there is no .1 and .2)

The worst was on 26/3 which would change the assignment every 2 min or so, flipping between 26 and 3, and each time the sound would drop out for a second.

Another annoying thing is that I end up with several identical assignments, like 3 times 52.2. I also lose channels. I have to re-scan every few days.

Is that my receiver that goes haywire or could it be a borderline reception?

Thanks,
Barney

the information is in the data ssned with the signal.

See the NYC thread for more info but basically with all the NY stations now moving to the Empiore State building there is a lot of tweaking to be done and fixing hte PSIP (the channel mapping data) is a big part of it. At least some of those stations you list are philly though- correct? SO I have no idea hwat is going on there.

Are you using a set top box- if so which one?

If its a satellite box from Directv- to further confuse the issue- the stations have't yet notified the guide data people so the info the box gets from Directv will be conflicting with what the box might see.

I have the motorola hdt 100 stb. I get all of my signals from Philadelphia, with the exception of WNJT (52) and WNJB (58).

WNJT (52) and WNJB (58) both have the exact same programming so there's no need to have both unless you have reception issues and want to switch between them.

58 is really 8 which is VHF instead of UHF. The programming all originates in Trenton and then is distributed out to the various NJN towers (antennas).

As far as the channel mapping, that's done by the branding equipment and it's sent with the signal. People are all working on that equipment now to make things work correctly for the February deadline. So, a lot of last minute adjusting and tweeking is probably going on which may be the cause of some of your problems.

Well I got a HDTV and a HDTV Receiver from Dish Network, now I just discovered that DISH does not broadcast my local channels in HD. I hear DirectTV does this, but it might not be cost effective for me to switch providers.

So, I guess I need a OTA. Unfortunately, I live in the Howell area north of I-195 and west of Route 9. According to AntennaWeb.com I need a Long Distance Directional Antenna. I'm about 40 miles from the NYC broadcast antennas and about 50-60 miles from Philly.

Can anyone please recommend a Good HDTV Antenna? And does anyone know if there are any professional installers in NJ? Or is it possible to install these antennas myself?

Thanks in Advance,
CV

Originally posted by cviz821
Well I got a HDTV and a HDTV Receiver from Dish Network, now I just discovered that DISH does not broadcast my local channels in HD. I hear DirectTV does this, but it might not be cost effective for me to switch providers.

So, I guess I need a OTA. Unfortunately, I live in the Howell area north of I-195 and west of Route 9. According to AntennaWeb.com I need a Long Distance Directional Antenna. I'm about 40 miles from the NYC broadcast antennas and about 50-60 miles from Philly.

Can anyone please recommend a Good HDTV Antenna? And does anyone know if there are any professional installers in NJ? Or is it possible to install these antennas myself?

Thanks in Advance,
CV

Your not to far from me a stones throw away (im off exit 28 or 22 on 195). Channel Master 4228A (http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/4228.htm) is a great antenna you will also need a Preamp (http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/7778.htm) also a antenna mast and mounting kit. you should be able to tune in locals in the attic. For that you can do it yourself (Ive personally done 4 attic installs in this area). Depending an a few things you should be able to pull in All the philly and or most of NY with little or no problems. Drop me an email or PM if you need some help with the install.

Zip code is 07946. I have a Silver Sensor with a CM 7775 preamp in the attic feeding a dishnetwork 921. I get CBS, FOX, ABC and UPN, most nights, very solid. PIX not so good, not so often. NBC nary a sniff. If all of these transmissions come from the same vicinity (NYC), why, oh why, such disparity?

dont know where you are but a Channel master 4228 from a silver sensor was a big improvement for me in my attic.

Originally posted by daoust501
Zip code is 07946. I have a Silver Sensor with a CM 7775 preamp in the attic feeding a dishnetwork 921. I get CBS, FOX, ABC and UPN, most nights, very solid. PIX not so good, not so often. NBC nary a sniff. If all of these transmissions come from the same vicinity (NYC), why, oh why, such disparity?
Different frequencies; different power levels; different reflections from obstructions because of different frequencies/power levels.

An antenna in the attic can be losing as much as 99% of the signal, too, compared to the same antenna mounted outside, because of attenuation in the materials in the walls and roof; and differences in different walls may allow disproportionate multipath signals reach the antenna further making life difficult.

A much worse performing antenna outside is more often better than the best of antennas in an attic.

Cable Modem CTV Signal
Ok, Maybe some one here will know a little more then I do on this subject. I curently have Comcast in Ocean City, NJ. My curant signals read

Downstream Value :

Signal to Noise Ratio 35 dB

Power Level -5 dBmV

Upstream Value :

Power Level 54 dBmV

I curantly 95% of the time get 5.3-5.6Mbps Downstream

Now I want to amp up my signal, Its not bad at all So the way I see it it does not hurt to amp a good signal. But even with a two way pasive amp like electroline 10 Db amp I lose my return. my return goes to about 56 to 57. Witch then puts me back where i started for download speed. So If I put a 10 Db forward two way pasive amp on then add a 10 Db Return two way pasive amp with a noise reducer will it equal out??????????? What does every one think about this???? Would like any ones sugestions and thoughts on this.....All the help would be great..If im missing any thing let me know.....I need to figure out and good but not to expensive way to do this......I think this will work fine... Thanks guys

I've been watching HD OTA for years, but I just got a cablecard ready TV and subscribe to analog Comcast cable in the Trenton area. Their flyer says that HD broadcast is included with the Limited Basic service. It seems that I should be able to tune in the HD broadcast stations without the cable card. The auto scan did find digital music stations, but no HD broadcast stations. I'd like to try to tune directly, but don't know the QAM channel numbers (vs the channel #'s on a Comcast STB). Anyone know what they are?

Ed

Did WNBC decrease it's power on Monday? I started receiving them last Friday but since Monday the signal strength is down.

I usually get NJN strong on 52-1 through 52-5. Last two nights, no signal. Anybody else?

That happened to me as well. The signal is there just no sound or picture. If you tune to 34-1 etc. the sound and picture are there.

Originally posted by dan57
I usually get NJN strong on 52-1 through 52-5. Last two nights, no signal. Anybody else?

I haven't checked any NJN stations since the weekend. For me, it's usually 58-5 (8-5) that is missing.

Am I (other than Bob from NJN) the ONLY ONE who can tune in Digital 8-5 (VHF??) :confused:

I've done re-scans....and while 58-1:4 are there....58-5 is not.

i believe it only exists at night. IF you scan not during prime time you will only get 1-4, after 8pm you get 1-5.

Originally posted by michaelk
i believe it only exists at night. IF you scan not during prime time you will only get 1-4, after 8pm you get 1-5.

See what happens when I try and rush out a post from work.....I leave out ALL the KEY elements :D

What I experience is along theese lines:I check 58-5 at....say 8:45 pm ....and there is supposed to be a presentation of the "Jack Johnson story on.....and then I check 58-1:2 or 3-4 and they have programming with picture and sound....and then I go to 50-5 or 52-5....and THOSE NJN channels have the "Jack Johnson" story airing....I'm led to wonder just WTF is going on with 58-5....since I have a full fledged signal on 58:1,2,3 or 4....and I know that the other NJN's in the area are indeed airing the programming that's supposed to be aired.

If that makes more sense..... <G>

Originally posted by Johnr0836
That happened to me as well. The signal is there just no sound or picture. If you tune to 34-1 etc. the sound and picture are there.

34 1 through 5? Really? I'll have to try this tonight when I get home if I'm not getting it on 52 1 through 5. Why would it be re-mapping now to 34?

Originally posted by dan57
34 1 through 5? Really? I'll have to try this tonight when I get home if I'm not getting it on 52 1 through 5. Why would it be re-mapping now to 34?

Maybe he meant "43" instead of 34....as 43 is the digital assignment for NJN out of Trenton.

:confused:

I'm dyslexic today. 43 is correct

Originally posted by Johnr0836
I'm dyslexic today. 43 is correct

Hey, it happens.

Too often in my world as a matter of fact..... :p

I'm puzzled. (Actually, not an uncommon occurance.) Last night I was still not getting NJN on 50 1 through 5 or on 52 1 through 5. I always used to get it quite strong on 52. As recommended, I also tried 43. Anyone else? I don't think it's my setup because I get all of the New York OTA's perfectly.

NJN appears to be having problems when they broadcast their HD content. At 8 o'clock the sound and picture disappear on 52-1 to 52-5. Prior to last night I could receive the station on 43-1 to 43-3. Last night the SD content was there (43-1, 43-2) but 43-2 had only the sound for the HD content. I sent an e-mail to them yesterday about this but haven't heard back from them.

Thanks John, at least I know it's not just my setup.

Same here, for two days I did not get a signal for 52.1-5 at all, now I get it again, but on 52.5 (HD) I only get the sound.

I have the Motorola HDT 101 (with fan). Channel assignment switches between 43 and 52.

Barney

Okay, further update from last night. I had 52 1 through 4 in the evening. Then, at 8 pm, when NJN usually turns on 52-5 HD and turns off several of the SD 52 substations, I lost all transmission on 52 1 through 5.

Wow.. I didn't realize there were so many problems lately.

I'll see what I can tune in tonight I guess.

Once again, all the towers broadcast the same programming so there aren't a batch of NJN's around the state. There's just one and the same program is broadcast out of all the towers at the same time.

I'll let you guys know what happens with my Samsung SIR-T150

Originally posted by rlindabury
Wow.. I didn't realize there were so many problems lately.

I'll see what I can tune in tonight I guess.

Once again, all the towers broadcast the same programming so there aren't a batch of NJN's around the state. There's just one and the same program is broadcast out of all the towers at the same time.

I'll let you guys know what happens with my Samsung SIR-T150

Last night at around 9pm 52-5 and 58-5 had audio/video....but 58-1 did not....yet 52-1 did. I never got around to checking to see if 50-5 or 50-1 had anything either. I lost my focus.....:D

:confused:

So whats new in NJ over the air guys?

I didn't even get to check the programs on NJN this weekend. Caught some kind of cold or something and have been doing a lot of resting.

I'll see if I can manage to remember to check it tonight.

Originally posted by rlindabury
I didn't even get to check the programs on NJN this weekend. Caught some kind of cold or something and have been doing a lot of resting.

I'll see if I can manage to remember to check it tonight.

Me thinks it's the plague :D

"It" hit my household over the last month....and it still lingers in my nose/sinuses. It's still bouncing through my office as well.

It's the end of the world......:p

I just wish I could've stayed home while I suffered through "it" so I could watch some HD :mad:

Originally posted by Johnr0836
NJN appears to be having problems when they broadcast their HD content. At 8 o'clock the sound and picture disappear on 52-1 to 52-5. Prior to last night I could receive the station on 43-1 to 43-3. Last night the SD content was there (43-1, 43-2) but 43-2 had only the sound for the HD content. I sent an e-mail to them yesterday about this but haven't heard back from them.

I got a reply this AM. It appears they were unaware of the problem.

Any further info on NJN? It was still out for me on 52 1-5, at least after 8 pm yesterday.

Guys, keep in mind that the Central, NJ thread wasn't setup to isolate you guys into this thread. It is a place to address specific concerns for OTA issues that apply to your area in picking up both Philly and NY stations.

The primary discussion for Philly stations and NY stations are in their respective threads so if you don't get an answer here, don't forget to check them out.

Have locals stations out of NYC boosted their signals lately? I've noticed a lot stronger signal on most of my locals in the last week or two. Still can't pull in WB on channel 12 though. What is the other channel it's on though, wasn't it 75? My Dish/Echostar 6000 can't go that high, so i forget how I was able to tune it in previously. As of now though ABC and FOX are strong enough to not always drop out during a show. I hope it's not going to change once the trees get their leaves...

Originally posted by tramahound
Have locals stations out of NYC boosted their signals lately? I've noticed a lot stronger signal on most of my locals in the last week or two. Still can't pull in WB on channel 12 though. What is the other channel it's on though, wasn't it 75? My Dish/Echostar 6000 can't go that high, so i forget how I was able to tune it in previously. As of now though ABC and FOX are strong enough to not always drop out during a show. I hope it's not going to change once the trees get their leaves...

Not sure if strengths have been boosted.

WB is on Digital 33 now.....I think for a time it was remapping on some receivers to 75 (which IIRC was the WB's national feed assignment)

Originally posted by dan57
Any further info on NJN? It was still out for me on 52 1-5, at least after 8 pm yesterday.

I keep forgetting to try the NJN stations at night after I get home. Hopefully tonight I'll remember since Wednesday is a HEAVY HD viewing night in my household (LOST, Yes Dear, King of Queens, CSI: NY)

I'll STILL probably have to put a post-it on my forehead to remember though.... :D

I tried 52-5 and 58-5 the other night. I had issues getting 58 but no problems with 52.

If I can remember, I can try again tonight.

I'm using a Samsung SIR-T150 with a Radio Shack attic antenna mounted on a 12' mast on a 2-story house with a rotor.

For those that don't read the NYC thread, here's the information I posted over there about NJN power output from the various towers.

Here's the tower/power listing with information on the upcoming power increases:

WNJN-DT Ch. 51 Montclair: 177Kw Now -> 200Kw Later
WNJB-DT Ch. 8 New Brunswick: 6Kw Now -> 11Kw Summer '05 -> 20Kw Later
WNJT-DT Ch. 43 Trenton: 46Kw
WNJS-DT Ch. 22 Camden: 20Kw Now -> 163Kw Summer '05 -> 198Kw Later

Realize that VHF doesn't need as much power and that's why the lower Kw numbers for Ch. 8. Later means later. I have no specific timeframe for "later". ;)

Bob, thanks for your input. I am still having no luck with 52. Am I correct that UHF 51 from Montclair should map to 52 1 through 4 during the day, and then 52-5 HD after 8 pm? I just tried a rescan and 51 mapped to 50-1. Strange. One more thing... at night, when I get 50-5, it is not HD.... merely the same programming as I get on 50-1.

Originally posted by dan57
Bob, thanks for your input. I am still having no luck with 52. Am I correct that UHF 51 from Montclair should map to 52 1 through 4 during the day, and then 52-5 HD after 8 pm? I just tried a rescan and 51 mapped to 50-1. Strange. One more thing... at night, when I get 50-5, it is not HD.... merely the same programming as I get on 50-1.

IIRC:

Digital 43 maps to 52
Digital 51 maps to 50
Digital 8 maps to 58

I have a new RCA D* receiver in my kitchen (which ironically is where most of my HD viewing has migrated to in the last 8 months) and it is a bit more of a PITA to check the HD signals/channels than the Hughes E86 receiver I had in there for 2 years.

Thanks Jay. Hmm, so 51 maps to 50. I think I will try a re-scan tonight after 8 pm to see if I pick up 50-5 as a the HD broadcast instead of a mirror of 50-1. We'll see.

All of our digital channels rebrand (remap) to match the analog channels so:

Camden – analog channel 23 (digital: tune to 22)
Trenton – analog channel 52 (digital: tune to 43)
New Brunswick – analog channel 58 (digital: tune to 8 [vhf])
Montclair – analog channel 50 (digital: tune to 51)

The engineer said there was a issue with rebranding on one tower but I forget which one he said had the problem. It might have been Montclair.

52 is having the rebranding problem. When they switch to HD at 8PM the is no picture or audio on 52-1 etc. There is normal service on 43-1, 43-2 and 43-3. I had emailed them a couple of weeks ago and got a response that, to me, indicated they were not aware of it. I got no indication of when it might be fixed.

Well, I'm totally mystified. I no longer can get PBS HD at all. Until a week or two ago I was able to get NJN 52-5 after 8 pm. Now, I cannot get any of the 52 substations. A scan of digital 43 yields no results. I can get 50 1 to 4 out of Maplewood during the day. 50-5 gives me a mirror (SD programming) of 50-1 even after 8 pm. I tried a rescan of digital 51 last night after 8 to no avail. Any ideas or help? If it matters, I am using a Hughes HTL-HD tuner (maybe this is some quirk with this tuner?)

I don't think you can scan for channel 43 since it appears that the signal is being redirected to 52. I can get WNJT by manual tuning 43.1 etc.

John, thanks for your continuing help. I'll try that. Do you get HD on 43-5 at night?

The HD content is on 43-3.

Originally posted by Johnr0836
The HD content is on 43-3.

Actually it's not.

HD is ALWAYS on the -5 subchannel 8pm-12midnight.

The -2 and -3 subchannels are shut off at 8pm to free bandwidth for the HD content.

This could be causing problems for some receivers.

I'm currently right now tuned into 43 without a problem on my Samsung SIR-T150.

Oh, wait.. there IS a problem. I'm getting 43 (52-1, 52-4) no problem.

There's no signal on 52-2 and 52-3. Somethings messed up. lol

But I do get those. I'll check at 8pm for the HD.

Just checked 58 and I get 58-1, 58-2, 58-3 and 58-4 no problem.

Wierd.

Originally posted by Johnr0836
The HD content is on 43-3.


Well, I just I'm just outa luck on PBS HD. No matter what I do, I cannot trick my receiver into getting 43-3. Nothing on 52-5. I tried manually inputting, re-scanning, etc. and now I'm out of ideas. It's a shame, too, because I enjoy NJN's HD programming. Any suggestions? I hope they get this worked out soon.

No NJN 52-5 either...its been like this for about a few weeks.

Tony

Ok.. several people are posting there are problems with NJN HD on the Trenton tower.

I tested 52-5 the other day at my home and had no problem receiving the programming on my Samsung SIR-T150.

I did, however, have no luck picking up 58-5 when I tried at the same time.

My point is that there hasn't been a problem with 52-5 for weeks. I guess there may be intermittant problems over the past few weeks.

I'll check with the engineer in charge of this stuff today and see what he has to say since I'm in the NJN Trenton facility today. :)

Hopefully I can get some answers. ;)

Thanks Bob - appreciate all of your information. This might well be a problem with my setup or receiver. (By the way, I am using a Hughes HTL-HD.) All I know is that until a week or two ago, I was consistently able to get 52-5 HD after 8 pm. Lately, nothing. Also, on 50-5 after 8, I get a mirror of the SD broadcasting of 50-1.

Hi all,

I am thinking to switch from comcast to DirecTV. I am in west windsor. In my area, which HD local channels can I get? NYC local, or Philly local? How's the PQ, compare with cable?

Also, do I have to order the Off-Air HD Antenna from DirecTV?

Thanks a lot!

NYWST
I also live in West Windsor. OTA I can get both Philly and NYC depending upon which way the antenna is pointed. Currently I have my antenna facing NYC. I have no trouble receiving CBS, ABC, FOX, UPN. WB is usually good while NBC has been problematic. though lately it seems to have settled down. PBS out of NYC is a no starter. But NJT is no problem.

John

John,

Thanks! Did you compare the OTA local HD PQ with cable HD local?

I'll check with the engineer in charge of this stuff today and see what he has to say since I'm in the NJN Trenton facility today.

Hi Bob! Thanks for looking into this problem. I never had a problem picking up NJN 50-5 HD. As of 8:30 PM 3-9 Wednesday With my CM 4228
50-1 Yes
50-2 No
50-3 No
50-4 Yes
50-5 Nothing

With my Zenith SS
50-1 No
50-4 No
50-5 Nothing
58-1 Yes
58-2 No
58-3 No
58-4 Yes

Thanks Again, Tony

Nywst
Have never used cable.

John

Hi Tony,

There are some issues with the digital broadcasts lately. I wasn't able to talk to the engineer in charge of this yesterday because his wife is having a baby and he's out today as well.

I did talk to another engineer and it seems we're experiencing both PSIP and Re-Branding equipment issues. New equipment is supposed to arrive and replace the old but I have no idea of when.

I tried last night and I had no luck getting ANY HD from NJN last night at all. I tried channels 52 and 58. 52 seemed totall fubar and I could only get 58-1 and 58-4 after 8pm, no 58-5.

After 8pm the -2 and -3 sub-channels are shut off so if everything was working as it should you'd be able to receive xx-1, xx-4, xx-5 (hd) only.

Originally posted by trend1
Hi Bob! Thanks for looking into this problem. I never had a problem picking up NJN 50-5 HD. As of 8:30 PM 3-9 Wednesday With my CM 4228
50-1 Yes
50-2 No
50-3 No
50-4 Yes
50-5 Nothing

With my Zenith SS
50-1 No
50-4 No
50-5 Nothing
58-1 Yes
58-2 No
58-3 No
58-4 Yes

Thanks Again, Tony

Originally posted by Johnr0836
Nywst
Have never used cable.

John

I've never seen HD via cable either....but I'd *think* with OTA being uncompressed (vs cable or satellite for that matter) it would look crisper/clearer ?!?!

But, your location *could* also impact your reception AFA OTA viewing (dropouts, pixelation etc....).

The nice thing about OTA is also the fact that you are a few seconds ahead of your friends (on cable/satellite) when watching a sporting event as well.... :D

Originally posted by jaypb
I've never seen HD via cable either....but I'd *think* with OTA being uncompressed (vs cable or satellite for that matter) it would look crisper/clearer ?!?!

But, your location *could* also impact your reception AFA OTA viewing (dropouts, pixelation etc....).

The nice thing about OTA is also the fact that you are a few seconds ahead of your friends (on cable/satellite) when watching a sporting event as well.... :D

So right now, I really don't know I should switch to D* or not. Geez, the thing botheres me most is we don't have YES HD yet. :mad:

No NJN digital again on Thursday evening from Trenton.

Originally posted by rcodey
No NJN digital again on Thursday evening from Trenton.

I actually tooled around from 50-5 to 52-5 to 58-5....and there was NO programming on any of them for me. Yet 50-1, 52-1 and 58-1 were coming in fine.

So, as Bob said, there's some technical issues going on.

:confused:

No NJN digital again on Thursday evening from Trenton.

I checked last night (March 14) and 52-5 was broadcasting in HD!

Tony

Yes, good news. NJN seemed to be back to normal last night with HD programming on 50-5 and 52-5. Interestingly, I get guide info on the 50 subchannels but not on the 52's.

Anyone else fiddled with aiming towards Philly lately? I hope to rotate back towards Philly on Sunday for a UPN57 Philly-Indians MLB game.

Was just curious *if* those in the Central NJ area had any better luck the last 12 months getting the "illusive" WCAU and WTXF.

:confused:

I'm in flemington and get everything from philly perfect except the pbs channel 12- that's a crap shoot.

Originally posted by michaelk
I'm in flemington and get everything from philly perfect except the pbs channel 12- that's a crap shoot.

My Philly experiences were well documented in this thread all the way back to the beginning.....ah the memories.

UPN-DT57 was always a solid performer....as was KYW-DT. The rest were hit or miss for me..... depending on which setup/antenna I was rotating back towards Philly. One was able to pick up WPHL-DT while the other could get WPVI-DT. WCAU-DT and WHyy-DT were always dead as a doornail dogs (other than TROPO effect viewing).

I'll find out Sunday when I sit down and futz around....:p

Oh well NJN 50-5 HD is down again tonight (3-15-05)...Why was it working yesterday?

Tony

Originally posted by jaypb
My Philly experiences were well documented in this thread all the way back to the beginning.....ah the memories.

UPN-DT57 was always a solid performer....as was KYW-DT. The rest were hit or miss for me..... depending on which setup/antenna I was rotating back towards Philly. One was able to pick up WPHL-DT while the other could get WPVI-DT. WCAU-DT and WHyy-DT were always dead as a doornail dogs (other than TROPO effect viewing).

I'll find out Sunday when I sit down and futz around....:p

i'm currently using a CM 4228 with a CM preamp in my attic- if that helps.

Originally posted by trend1
Oh well NJN 50-5 HD is down again tonight (3-15-05)...Why was it working yesterday?

Tony

I checked last night (and for me) 50-5/52-5 AND 58-5 was *out*. So it must be an NJN "wide" issue.

I just want to know when the Soundstage concerts are going to start up again....

Originally posted by michaelk
i'm currently using a CM 4228 with a CM preamp in my attic- if that helps.

Both of my setups are roofmounted Cm4228's. One has a CM7775 pre-amp and the other a Wingard VHF/UHF preamp (not sure of the model #). The problem in my particuar situation is my location....as I believe I'm about 4 inches above sea level :p

And my house is only one level.

So thanks to the combiner, life is good again :D

But still I tried live a busy beaver for the better part of 15-16 months to raise the dead (signals) from Philly....:eek:

NJN 50-5 HD is broadcasting tonight!

Tony

Anyone notice if 31-1 came back online?

I have perfect signal strength according to my receivers but a black screen. Others in the NYC thread noticed this as well. But I haven't checked in a few days to see if it came back on.

How bout Channel 13 (Digital 63?). Anyone getting a whiff??

I saw on their website that that the Patmedia cable boxes have firewire ports.

Is it possible to make backups of HDTV to a DVHS recorded from these ports?

Are they "active"?

Thanks for any help

Anyone picking up WNBC or WNJU? I get the other NY stations with an amplified indoor antenna. I get nothing from WNBC.

2.1 WCBS Excellent signal
4.1 WNBC No signal
5.1 WNYW Good signal
5-2 WWOR UPN 9 Simulcast good signal
11.1 WPIX Good signal
11.2 WPIX Good Signal
36?? WNJU No signal
41.1 WXTV Good signal
45.1 WABC Very Good signal
45.2 WABC Very Good signal
58.1 NJN Very Good signal
58.2 " " " "
58.3 " " " "
58.4 " " " "
58.5 NJN HD Excellent signal
68.1 WFUT Very Good signal

I'm in Somerset county. I got NBC perfectly ever since they went to the combiner. Over the last week, I've been periodically loosing it altogether...and suddenly, for no reason. My system certainly hasn't changed. I don't know what it is, but it always seems to happen during my favorite shows.

I almost thre something through the screen tonight when it cut out 2 minutes into Medium...

Tom

Here's what's really strange. Tonight after NBC cut out on me, I decided to check the signal strength and I had a solid steady 80% signal....just doesn't make sense.

This really seems like something on their end. I'd love to hear if others are having this problem lately.

Tom

Originally posted by tld
Here's what's really strange. Tonight after NBC cut out on me, I decided to check the signal strength and I had a solid steady 80% signal....just doesn't make sense.

This really seems like something on their end. I'd love to hear if others are having this problem lately.

Tom

It's an NBC issue. My wife DVR'S NUMEROUS shows off of 4-1 (MEdical Investigation, Most of the 4,283 L&O series, Las Vegas, Joey, W&G) and to a TEEEEE all of these series have had numerous 16:9/4:3 switching issues, audio issues and black screen issues. It's been happening off and on since Early February I'd guess.

And, I get NBC-DT at a solid 100% on my setup OTA.

I don't have all the "Numbers" in front of me (as I'm at work)....but on Sunday I turned back towards Philly. And the results were *pretty much* what I expected:

3-1 Still solid as a rock

6-1 50% Signal strength on my E86....but no dropouts

10-1 Dead. 0-15 during the day when I was checking it out...which was pretty much the same MO "back in the day"

12-1 Deader. As a doornail. No signal. Status quo.

17-1 Still under lockable levels. Status quo.

29-1 Still a fringe lockability. As nighttime came upon my home the signal strength increased. SSDD.

43-1 Still a solid 100 lock

57-1 Still a solid 100 lock.

There were a couple of other digital channels that seemed new (WBYE?) and a few other digital designations that were showing a signal strength...but I didn't have the time/energy to look em up and see what they could have possibly been.

In addition, several NYC stations were fully watchable with NO dropouts while facing Philly.

My lack of "height" (not physical stature :D) on my house itself (Ranch) in addition to my area being about 4 inches above sea level *probably* continue to "do me in" WRT gleaning the Philly stations reliably.

:mad:

Such is life..... :p

Originally posted by bwooster
I saw on their website that that the Patmedia cable boxes have firewire ports.

Is it possible to make backups of HDTV to a DVHS recorded from these ports?

Are they "active"?

Thanks for any help

I live in Franklin and also use Patriot Media. I'm scheduled to get my HDTV reciever from them this Saturday. So I'll let you know then but this site has a lot of stuff on Patmedia.

http://www.dslreports.com/faq/patriot

Just curious if anyone else has been checking the "-5" subchannels on the NJ PBS stations. Noticed last night that 58-5 was down again....yet 58-1 and 4 were up. Forgot to check the 50 and 52 subchannels though.

:confused:

Jay, I was watching the program on Broadway musicals last night after 9 pm on 52-5.

Since we're on the topic.... anyone get guide info on the 52 subchannels? I get guide info on the 50 subchannels, but not good reception. I get good reception on the 52's but no guide info. Anyone?

Hi Folks,

Whats a good OTA antenna to get. Patriot Media Cable doesn't offer the WB channel in HD.

Originally posted by dan57
Since we're on the topic.... anyone get guide info on the 52 subchannels? I get guide info on the 50 subchannels, but not good reception. I get good reception on the 52's but no guide info. Anyone?

Both models of HD D* receivers I have give me guide info for 50-1:5 and 52-1:5. Only *issue* seems to be the damn "-5" subchannel reception coming and going.

I just wish I'd be able to check ALL active PBS NJ HD station "-5"'s at the same time. Just too damn much going on at home when I try futzing with the guide/remote (damn wife/kids)..... :p

Originally posted by sdkwan
Hi Folks,

Whats a good OTA antenna to get. Patriot Media Cable doesn't offer the WB channel in HD.

Whereabouts in NJ are you located? Some folks have had trouble getting WB in HD from Central NJ. But having said that....I'd guess a start would be to go to Radio Shack and pick up their 21.99 UHF antenna and start with that. It's a corner Yagi IIRC. Model # had a 2160 in it somewhere I *think*. It's on their website. At least if it doesn't work you can return it.

Not sure if you'll need a pre-amp....or how high the antenna will be mounted on the roof above ground level (if not in the attic).

I live in Somerset and I recently started receiving the WB in HD. Smallville looks great in HD!

I have an antenna in my attic and it seems to pull in all the NY stations + some NJ ones (I don't watch them).

I have no idea what antenna my installer put up there.

Originally posted by jaypb
Whereabouts in NJ are you located? Some folks have had trouble getting WB in HD from Central NJ. But having said that....I'd guess a start would be to go to Radio Shack and pick up their 21.99 UHF antenna and start with that. It's a corner Yagi IIRC. Model # had a 2160 in it somewhere I *think*. It's on their website. At least if it doesn't work you can return it.

Not sure if you'll need a pre-amp....or how high the antenna will be mounted on the roof above ground level (if not in the attic).


I'm located in Franklin, right near the muncipal center. In order to get OTA signals, do I necessarily need to put up an antenna in the attic or on the roof? A set top antenna won't work?

Originally posted by sdkwan
I'm located in Franklin, right near the muncipal center. In order to get OTA signals, do I necessarily need to put up an antenna in the attic or on the roof? A set top antenna won't work?

Set top for the WB...not sure. It's UHF 33....but I'm not quite sure as to what strength/power they are transmitting at. If not on this thread then on the NYC area thread there were folks complaining about not being able to get the WB in HD.

If you are going to go for a STB antenna, look for the Silver Sensor. I *think* CC or BB had it as of a few months ago. Sears may even carry it. If not it's available online.

The other issue with a STB antenna would be: Where is the TV? If it's in the basement a STB antenna would leave you SOL. Same thing for a first floor TV not near a window with a bank of trees outside.

Issues like that will hinder your ability to glean that signal OTA from 30 or more miles away

can we pick up csn philadelphia? want to see if i can watch tonight's sixers / pacers game

Originally posted by dalegen
can we pick up csn philadelphia? want to see if i can watch tonight's sixers / pacers game

Comcast Sportsnet is a cable station....only available to those in the Philly DMA I believe. It wasn't on Comcast where I live when I left (in 2000) and IIRC it's still not there now.

thanks, jaypb

Just a reminder that today's Mets game was in HD on 11-1. IIRC, all Mets home games on WPIX are supposed to be in HD. I missed today's, but I'm hoping to at least catch a piece of tomorrow's just to see how OTA unadulterated HD baseball looks :p

In Princeton, NJ, I am using a DISH 921 Tuner with a Winegard 9095 rooftop antenna pointed at Philadelphia. I pick up 23 digital channels, including subchannels. Signal strength with a top signal of 125 is:

Channel 3 (CBS) - 120-125
Channel 6 (ABC) -100-110
Channel 10 (NBC) - 100-110
Channel 12 (PBS) - About 62 (Bounces from 0 to 70 because tuner evaluates
weak signal) generally 62 to 70 when I get reception
Channel 17 (WB) - 80-87
Channel 29 (FOX) - About 62 (Bounces from 0 to 70 because tuner evaluates
weak signal) generally 62 to 70 when I get reception
Channel 35 (PBS) - 100-125
Channel 51 (NJN) - 100-125
Channel 57 (UPN) - 120-125
Channel 61 (PAX) - 100-120
Channel 65 (UNI) - 100-125

Channel 12 and 29 rarely come in. The signal is intermittent and I only get
them once or twice a week usually at night. Is anyone in the Princeton area
able to get Channels 12 and 29 on a regular basis and hold the signal? What
type of tuner are you using and how high is your antenna

When it rains, I lose channels, 6, 10 and 17. 3 and 57 are the best channels.
High definition is stunning on all OTA channels. Exceeds Dish Network and
Patmedia feeds. I am going to cancel Patmedia.

The last 10 days or so, Fox Phila WTXF-29 and PBS Phila WHYY-12, the signal has stopped
bouncing and my 921 receiver has been reading and holding the signal. WTXF has come in at 57 to 66 with a normal reading of 62. I have been able to watch shows for 2 or 3 hours at a time with only a few dropouts. Watched Yankees - Mets game and Star Wars movie virtually uninterrupted in stunning high definition. WHYY has been reading 66 to 75 with a normal reading of 66. Have been able to watch one hour long shows with no dropouts in stunning high definition. I contacted the engineering departments at both stations, and their signal strength has not changed. Dish has not yet upgraded the software on the 921.
I cannot figure out what has happened. Has anyone else experienced improved OTA reception with these two stations?

Can anyone pick up WNBC-HD in Middlesex county? I use a DISH 811 receiver with PR-4400 plus amplifier. All I got is 49% signal. No signal lock. I can see CBS, ABC, UPN, FOX, WB and NJN. All in 70 to 80% range.

Can anyone pick up WNBC-HD in Middlesex county? I use a DISH 811 receiver with PR-4400 plus amplifier. All I got is 49% signal. No signal lock. I can see CBS, ABC, UPN, FOX, WB and NJN. All in 70 to 80% range.

Yes, I am able to pick up WNBC-DT at a 100% strength on all of my STB's. What kind of an amp are you using? Is it a CM or Winegard? I have 2 CM 4228's with a CM UHF pre-amp on one and a Winegard VHF/UHF on the other and receive NBC-DT with no problems on both setups.

Yes, I am able to pick up WNBC-DT at a 100% strength on all of my STB's. What kind of an amp are you using? Is it a CM or Winegard? I have 2 CM 4228's with a CM UHF pre-amp on one and a Winegard VHF/UHF on the other and receive NBC-DT with no problems on both setups.
I have the Winegard preamp. My ant. is not very high in the air and my place is surrounded by trees. It's just so odd that WNBC is the only one I cannot receive.

I am in the same boat - I can get OTA of CBS, Fox, NBC and UPN and WB + some NJN shows but I can never get NBC. I wonder if an amp would help me. My antennas are inside my attic.

I am in the same boat - I can get OTA of CBS, Fox, NBC and UPN and WB + some NJN shows but I can never get NBC. I wonder if an amp would help me. My antennas are inside my attic.
I suspect WNBC has lower power compare to others. Does anyone know if WNBC is on ESB? I thought WNBC was on GE building.

I suspect WNBC has lower power compare to others. Does anyone know if WNBC is on ESB? I thought WNBC was on GE building.

Good question! This thread has stagnated in the last few months.....so I don't recall if the answer was posted here....but I'm *quite* certain the answer is in the NYC OTA thread. Or, you can post over there and someone (Gary Press) would know immediately.

IIRC, NBC was at lower power than the rest of the digitals....and the fact that your antenna isn't that high (and those $(*&%*(& trees) might be what is dooming you...AND if WNBC is still on the GE building that would add to it.

I am having the same problem with NBC. I have tryed 2 different antennas, a Radio Shack VU-120 XR and Antennas Direct DB4 . Every other station from the combiner come's in with no problem with the execption of NBC.

I've done a search and cannot find the right thread. Is there a thread for Comcast users in Central NJ? Where can I post questions related to that topic?

theswami
You can ask your question here.

John

I am new to this and I hope I am in the right place.

I just got a used Panasonic TU-DST51 Decoder Box.

I live in Bergen County New Jersey.

I went to antennaweb. I have a regular rooftop antenna I pointed the antenna between 159 to 171 degrees towards the towers per the map from the site. I did a scan and was able to receive channels.

Channel 2 CBS Channel 4 NBC Channel 4.2 NBC Weather
Channel 5 FOX Channel 7 ABC Channel 7.2 ABC+
Channel 9 UPN Channel 9.2 FOX 480
11 WB 11.2 WB
41 UNI (Spanish)

The only problem I have is with 11.1 and 2 because the baseball games come in spanish and some shows don't know why. the other problem no 24 PBS stations or 30 PAX those 2 stations are little farther away PBS is 4 mile more and PAX is 2 miles farther away, don't know why I can't scan them.

Otherwise signal is very good except during a storm or if a plane headed towards Teterboro Airport flies over I get the pixelation and blankouts.

I am not getting a rotar for the antenna because not worth buying it for 1 channel which is NJN PBS.

And there is no SAP button for the 11 and 2 WB Spanish issue. But very happy with it so far.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

I am new to this and I hope I am in the right place.

I just got a used Panasonic TU-DST51 Decoder Box.

I live in Bergen County New Jersey.

I went to antennaweb. I have a regular rooftop antenna I pointed the antenna between 159 to 171 degrees towards the towers per the map from the site. I did a scan and was able to receive channels.

Channel 2 CBS Channel 4 NBC Channel 4.2 NBC Weather
Channel 5 FOX Channel 7 ABC Channel 7.2 ABC+
Channel 9 UPN Channel 9.2 FOX 480
11 WB 11.2 WB
41 UNI (Spanish)

The only problem I have is with 11.1 and 2 because the baseball games come in spanish and some shows don't know why. the other problem no 24 PBS stations or 30 PAX those 2 stations are little farther away PBS is 4 mile more and PAX is 2 miles farther away, don't know why I can't scan them.

Otherwise signal is very good except during a storm or if a plane headed towards Teterboro Airport flies over I get the pixelation and blankouts.

I am not getting a rotar for the antenna because not worth buying it for 1 channel which is NJN PBS.

And there is no SAP button for the 11 and 2 WB Spanish issue. But very happy with it so far.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks


Can you "manually" input a channel designation to "see" if the STB remaps it to the actual channel? In other words try putting in "33" or "33-1" and see if it "remaps" the channel to 11-1.

As far as PAX....last time I checked the station a few weeks ago, I had a solid 100 % lock on all of my HD receivers....and no picture. I think it was discussed on here somewhere in the last month that there signal was going in and out, having problems.

Guess that's still the case ?!?!? :confused:

I tried manually imputing 33 and the screen said imput signal:not found.


But I did try 30 for the PAX and my screen said imput signal:found channel not available then after 30 seconds the screen goes blank which is normal to prevent burn in.

GPCOPY

theswami
You can ask your question here.

John

Thanks John.

I'm in WW as well. I actually found the answer to my original question but thanks for your reply. I do have new questions which I hope someone can answer.

BTW, what content provider do you use? Sat, cable, OTA? I moved here from NY where I was using Time Warner and frankly Comcast stinks. I've found them worse than Time Warner and they were not very good either.

New Questions:

My set-up: HDTV 16:9 using Comcast cable and the Motorola 6412 HD DVR.

1) Do any of you have a problem on start-up where you have a split screen?

Basically, when I turn off my TV for a while then turn it back on (with the STB always on) I sometimes get a divided screen until I change stations where the picture then returns to a single image.

2) My TV uses gray pillar box bars on the sides of 4:3 content. I do not like the gray bars so to get black bars I change the 4:3 Override on the 6412 to "Off" so it passes black bars to the TV.

Problem: On the CBS HD affiliate (KYW, channel 233 on my cable systems) I get the gray bars instead of the black bars. I have seen this before but I didn't note the station.

Anyone have an idea as to why I would get the gray bars instead of black bars on this station? The other HD stations seem to display the 4:3 content with the black bars perfectly fine.

3) Are your ESPN and YES stations in SD VERY poor on an HDTV? I recently purchased a HDTV and those stations and a bunch of others (cable stations <100) look HORRIBLE. I watch a TON of ESPN and YES and thankfully they are available in HD but other stations like CNN, A&E, The History Channel are not in HD and they are borderline unwatchable on a large screen HD RPTV.

Thanks for the help.

Edit:Found the answer to number 2. KYW passes gray bars for liability reasons.

2) My TV uses gray pillar box bars on the sides of 4:3 content. I do not like the gray bars so to get black bars I change the 4:3 Override on the 6412 to "Off" so it passes black bars to the TV.

Problem: On the CBS HD affiliate (KYW, channel 233 on my cable systems) I get the gray bars instead of the black bars. I have seen this before but I didn't note the station.

Anyone have an idea as to why I would get the gray bars instead of black bars on this station? The other HD stations seem to display the 4:3 content with the black bars perfectly fine.

Edit:Found the answer to number 2. KYW passes gray bars for liability reasons.


Glad to see you found the answer to your question. CBS stations started this about a year ago IIRC. I'm OK with it. If only because when I'm not home and wife leaves 2-1 (or 3-1) on in primetime she "doesn't understand" the 4:3 burn in issue....technically that is :D




3) Are your ESPN and YES stations in SD VERY poor on an HDTV? I recently purchased a HDTV and those stations and a bunch of others (cable stations <100) look HORRIBLE. I watch a TON of ESPN and YES and thankfully they are available in HD but other stations like CNN, A&E, The History Channel are not in HD and they are borderline unwatchable on a large screen HD RPTV.

Thanks for the help.

I have D* and, yes, MANY non-HD channels look horrific (ESPNU and some of the sports stations come to mind right off the bat) ....most of the reason is because of overcompression, which in D*'s case involves trying to fit many stations in the "space" where less should "fit" (not sure if Comcast "does" this).

The other, more logical explanation, is simply that an HDTV has MANY more lines of resolution and WILL show off flaws in ANY signal (OTA, Cable, Satellite....). In my case, it's noticeable on OTA stations as well (9-2 and 5-2 for example or even the multicasting on the PBS NJ stations). A crappy SD signal (or crappy "Digital" OTA signal) will look supremely crappy on an HDTV. Also, in your case, the channels below 100 on Comcast's lineup aren't "digital" IIRC. I believe D* passes all their stations through as "digital", whereas on Comcast (and other cable providers) the stations BELOW Channel 100 are analog signals.

WTF is Comcast doing in Central NJ?!?!?!? Where is the Yanks-Balt game in HD?!?!?!?!

Someone help please. YES in SD is not cutting it.

Basically only Yankee home games are HD.

A few away games (like red sox and mets) are also in HD, but mostly just the Home games.