Joel-

I've been one of the lucky ones...I have not had to do the unplug thing I've seen so many others talking about.
As I mentioned in my post, I know about the ability to set it up for the one minute early record time. That's a pain to have to do for a one time show recording...though I know I can set it up that way for series recording. The problem there comes if I have both channels recording at, say 7 pm, and then want to record an 8pm show. The DVR considers the one minute early preset a conflict, since it's coming at 7:59, and it won't let me schedule at that time since both tuners are still recording.
I'm thinking the Comcast folks must have some way to synch their clock with an atomic clock, just like all the networks and our local stations do, so that the DVR comes at 7:00:00 (not 7:00:25) to record a program that begins at 7:00:00.

olathebob,
I've noticed it also. I hadn't gotten around to proving it was a Comcast thing, and not just the network I was recording.
Seems to have started in about the last two weeks.
I'll give them a call also, so you aren't the only one.

Originally posted by FrugalRacer
Personally, I feel anything that takes reality programming off the air is a good thing. Add to that, the fact it was replaced with a show with a positive message, and that's even better.

But you are missing the point. Name your favorite network HD show that you always watch when a new episode is aired. Now imagine THAT show is pre-empted for a Billy Graham special. Imagine when they do air that episode at 1am, it's not in HD. Perhaps now you get my point, which I thought I made clear in my original post on the issue. (Besides, the Biggest Loser has an EXTREMELY positive message, not that you care)

I'm not really mad they decided to pre-empt the Biggest Loser, but this sets a dangerous precedent (that could effect HD programming) and I would hate to see an HD show I (or anyone else here) wants to watch get pre-empted, and then to make matters worse, not be aired in HD when they finally do show later in the evening.

After seeing that KSHB will pre-empt network programming, isn't anyone else bothered that this could happen with an HD show, and that when the affiliate airs that program later in the night, it won't be in HD?

Does anyone know whether an HD program a local affiliate pre-empts on their own and then shows later in the evening (or whenever) will still be seen in HD, or are we stuck with crappy SD? I know this question could vary from station to station, so I'm very curious how that would work at WDAF, KCTV, KSHB, and KMBC. Many of you have been in contact with the people who are involved in HD broadcasting at these stations, so I figured you might have an answer on this.

I hope they would still be in HD, but if not, then everyone here who enjoys network HD programming should be upset when local affiliates pre-empt network programming, even if this particular instance you don't care for the show.

They did it last season to American Dreams, showed a movie instead of a new episode.

http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA372560.html?partner=google

I never got to see that episode.

Originally posted by pappy97
But you are missing the point. Name your favorite network HD show that you always watch when a new episode is aired. Now imagine THAT show is pre-empted for a Billy Graham special. Imagine when they do air that episode at 1am, it's not in HD. Perhaps now you get my point, which I thought I made clear in my original post on the issue. (Besides, the Biggest Loser has an EXTREMELY positive message, not that you care)

[snip]

Does anyone know whether an HD program a local affiliate pre-empts on their own and then shows later in the evening (or whenever) will still be seen in HD, or are we stuck with crappy SD? I know this question could vary from station to station, so I'm very curious how that would work at WDAF, KCTV, KSHB, and KMBC. Many of you have been in contact with the people who are involved in HD broadcasting at these stations, so I figured you might have an answer on this.

I hope they would still be in HD, but if not, then everyone here who enjoys network HD programming should be upset when local affiliates pre-empt network programming, even if this particular instance you don't care for the show.

Just because I don't agree with you, doesn't mean I don't understand the point you are trying to make.

Format does not equal content. If there is a show I want to watch, I will watch it. If it's in HD, great. If not, that's OK, I'll still watch it.

Originally posted by pappy97
Last night, 1/18/05, KSHB decided to pre-empt one hour of primetime NBC programming, i.e., the Biggest Loser, in favor of a Billy (Franklin) Graham special. KSHB showed that ep of Biggest Loser at 1am.

Why should we HD enthusiasts care? The Biggest Loser was not an HD show (and the episode was an extra episode obviously plugged in to try to steal AI viewers), but the precedent these kinds of stunts set are troublesome. When we allow (without complaining) our local affiliates to pull this, the next time they do this we might have a station pre-empting an HD show, and you can bet that when they show that episode at 1am, it WON'T be in HD.

Anyone else disturbed by this stunt? I'd hate to see KCTV pre-empt CSI for some other evangelical telethon or something.

Personally as long as they are preempting "reality" shows with anything but other reality shows, I am happy. All reality shows and producers should be banned from this planet! I can't believe people watch that crap.

oops, I was a little late in that post. I agree with frugalracer, I will still watch good shows in standard def. I don't care if I could suddenly get reality shows in Ultrahigh Definition. I will not waste my brain cells on any of that crap. However, I will be annoyed enough that I will email the station if any CSI, or Lost gets preempted for something like, "who wants to be an evangelist millionaire"

Pappy, to answer your question, it will not be in HD. It has been shown with Cold Case on CBS that if a 3pm football game runs long on KCTV, they will get a delayed Cold Case episode, which will not be in HD. If the Big Networks can't provide affiliates with an HD feed because of delayed football, I don't see how a local affiliate could run an HD show later at night, unless the network provided it. (not likely)

I think since the affiliates all have 2 stations running right now (ATSC and NTSC), why not keep the HD (original) broadcast on your DT channel, and only preempt the NTSC channel for the other show? You could still show the preempted show later that night on the SD channel and no one would know the difference. But the HD community wouldn't miss out out their HD shows. That way we have a CHOICE.

That's a good idea. But then they would have to sell airtime differently and that would just be too much work.

Originally posted by pappy97
I hope they would still be in HD, but if not, then everyone here who enjoys network HD programming should be upset when local affiliates pre-empt network programming, even if this particular instance you don't care for the show.

The locals have the right and the option to replace network feeds with whatever they want.

While I agree with you that it is annoying when any favorite program in either HD or SD gets pulled, you have to realize that the decision is a business decision. My guess is that they pulled the reality show because they thought that the alternative program would attract more KC viewers .

One consideration is that HD programs are already the most popular (that's basically why the networks put the extra expense into producing them in HD) and the local affiliate would probably resist dumping them for altenative programming.

Originally posted by Eyedox
I think since the affiliates all have 2 stations running right now (ATSC and NTSC), why not keep the HD (original) broadcast on your DT channel, and only preempt the NTSC channel for the other show? You could still show the preempted show later that night on the SD channel and no one would know the difference. But the HD community wouldn't miss out out their HD shows. That way we have a CHOICE.

Thank you, now you are actually getting to my point. Other people here seem to like to answer my queries with irrelevant responses, like denouncing reality TV, when that isn't the issue.

The issue is that most affiliates around the country would not pre-empt any network programming unless there was some kind of moral objection to it, and now we've seen a KC affiliate pre-empt network TV without any objection to the material. In fact, KSHB could have put the evangelical program on 38 the spot, but chose not to.

Now what if the day comes when KCTV pre-empts CSI for another evangelical special, and the late night replay is not in HD? I would bet the little money I have that people would come here to voice their displeasure in it.

That's my point. Now that KSHB has shown that KC affiliates will pre-empt network programming when there is no moral objection to the program, I figured people here might throw a PREVENTATIVE compaint towards KC affiliates about pre-empting HD programming because we lose out on seeing the program in HD. This is not about getting mad about not showing The Biggest Loser (I know you don't care about that), but that this "opens the door" to pre-empting network HD programming.

I apologize for thinking people here might be concerned that one day in the near future a network HD program could be pre-empted and you won't get to see that episode in HD.

Originally posted by kcjefff
However, I will be annoyed enough that I will email the station if any CSI, or Lost gets preempted for something like, "who wants to be an evangelist millionaire"

This is exactly and precisely my point. Why wait to complain until CSI or Lost is pre-empted (and you can't watch the episode in HD), why not complain now when a KC affiliate is pre-empting network programming?

YES I KNOW YOU DON'T CARE THEY PRE-EMPTED THE BIGGEST LOSER. I get that 100%. What none of you seem to get is that this is an opportunity to make your voice heard about this issue before a KC affiliate decides to pre-empt a show you like for something like this.

The fact is, KSHB felt strongly enough to pull NBC programming for evangelical crap. They could have just as well put it on 38 The Spot, but they didn't. That means other affiliates might do the same thing one day in the near future with a show you like, like CSI or Lost.

Why wait until then to complain, when you can complain now and try to get these affiliates/networks to solve the problem BEFORE it happens???

This is a good point to bring out. These digital stations have the capacity to multicast. There is no reason whatsoever to pre-empt a show.

This last spring we had a tornado develop in the KCK area. All the local stations followed that storm from the helicopter all the way to Plattsburg, MO! That storm stalled over Plattsburg forever. All the while there was clear blue skies all over the KC area!!!! Guess what got pre-empted that night? Stanley Cup final game 3! No KMBC - ABC HD of that game that night.

The point. If they would have multicasted, the weather should be on the primary channel so the cable companies will display that feed. The OTA people could simply switch to the second channel and watch the main show.

Since money/profit is the primary reason for the broadcasters, then why don't they sell multicasting spots? More channels more money... KCPT seems to give us HD on 19-1 and SD on 19-2.

What baffles me is if the affiliates can record the SD broadcast of a show and show it at a later time, why can't they do the same with HD?

Don't the affiliates have the capability of recording the HD feed the way they record the SD feed in a scenario like this?

That's what I don't get. They have the ability to give us the HD feed, but can't record the show for later broadcast?

Multicasting destroys the full-bandwidth HDTV picture. Any time a station multicast two channels on one digital channel-picture quality goes bad on the HDTV channel.

KCPT has in the past recorded a HD broadcast for playback later in the evening or week. Full-power and full-bandwidth is needed to protect the quality of a single HDTV channel. Kansas City television stations have done an excellent job in sticking with full-bandwidth HDTV.

Originally posted by pappy97
What baffles me is if the affiliates can record the SD broadcast of a show and show it at a later time, why can't they do the same with HD?

Don't the affiliates have the capability of recording the HD feed the way they record the SD feed in a scenario like this?

That's what I don't get. They have the ability to give us the HD feed, but can't record the show for later broadcast?

I may be mistaken here (someone smarter can correct me if needed), but I think the local stations just have pass-thru equipment to broadcast what's coming in HD from the networks. I know it cost ESPN millions and millions to have their "digital center" so they could store HD programming highlights for SportsCenter. I'm sure in time this will come, but we're still a bit away.

FYI - I am selling my HDTV and upgrading to a new one. Mitsubishi WS-55859 55" 16:9 with built-in ATSC OTA Tuner, PIP, CC, FireWire (IEEE-1394), NetCommand system with HAVi (Home Audio/Video Interoperability).

So if any of you know of people looking to buy a set, send them over to the following website to check it out. Thanks so much for your help.

http://kansascity.craigslist.org/ele/56538524.html

if you try a channel master 4bay or 8bay antenna you should have no problem anywhere in kc picking up most everything if your close enough you might even get fox. although abc still uses vhf and these antennas are uhf but i have been able to get abc over the 8bay in some locations doing installs. i have had better luck with these antennas then huge yagi style antennas

anyone know what power ksmo and kshb and kmci broadcast at?

lovemymac said:
i have had better luck with these antennas then huge yagi style antennas

How far out (away from KC) have you installed the 8 bay with success?

Originally posted by lovemymac
anyone know what power ksmo and kshb and kmci broadcast at?


Hope this helps..................http://www.tvradioworld.com/region1/mo/tv_information.asp?m=kan

Well, I hooked up the Silver Sensor again and had to figure a way to pick up KCTV-DT again to watch the AFC Championship...it's working so far..but that's about the only one I'm getting...I think I'm picking up PAX and UPN too..but that's it...

OK, I read through the last ten pages of this thread, but it's really messy info.

Can somebody quickly sum up the status of FOX and it's HDTV signal, specifically potential of Comcast digital cable picking up the signal?

Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by KCMO
OK, I read through the last ten pages of this thread, but it's really messy info.

Can somebody quickly sum up the status of FOX and it's HDTV signal, specifically potential of Comcast digital cable picking up the signal?

Thanks in advance.

WDAF FOX4 DT-34 is broadcasting on low-power only. Viewers living close to the WDAF broadcasting tower can receive the WDAF digital signal. WDAF DT-34 FOX 720p HDTV programming is available on Time Warner, Everest and Sunflower cable providers. DirecTV has the national feed for FOX 720p HDTV but no local WDAF FOX 720p programming. Comcast is unable to receive the low-power WDAF digital signal so no local WDAF FOX 720p HDTV programming is available on the local Comcast cable network. Hopefully WDAF will make their goal of being a full-power digital HDTV broadcasting provider this coming summer.

I cannot remember are we eligible for ABC_HD & CBS-HD from D*? or just FOX-HD

a little birdy told me that there is still a slight possibility of Comcast getting WDAF HD via fiber through Time Warner.... notice how i said slight possibility? :) There's still a sliver of hope!

PS: and yes that would be before the SuperBowl

PPS: this is something that hasn't been told to anyone on the phones, they don't want to run the risk of it falling through since apprently the paperwork has been sitting at Time Warner for a while now.
This is simply what i've heard, so don't hold it against me if it ends up not happening.

Fox is the only O&O & the only one D* said I could get.

I have been having a lot of trouble getting KSHB OTA lately. Not sure why, anyone else have trouble with it?

Originally posted by 4MUKC
I have been having a lot of trouble getting KSHB OTA lately. Not sure why, anyone else have trouble with it?

I had problems over the weekend with audio dropping off of the signal and an occasional video hick-up but it seems to have cleared up. At first I thought that there were problems with the signal from New York (since it was happening during the national nightly news feed) but it carried over to the local news broadcast so I'm not sure what was going on.

If anyone has a contact at TWC, hit them up. Although they are not yet available to the general public, I have a 8300HD waiting for me at my local TWC store, thanks to my contact.

Frank Boal just said that Fox 4 will be full power by July 2nd or 3rd....as told to him by Fox Corporate...Discussing it on 810

NATION - Cool. Thanks for keeping us informed. I wonder if the full-power signal will reach all the way to St. Joe!!

Craash - What's the benefit of the 8300HD vs. the 8000HD? Any idea when it'll be available to those of us without a "contact"?? I'm sure you'll give us a full report.

Squeak,

Check out the thread in the HD Recorder forum for a full report, but the main is an improved HD picture, and all analog outputs are active. So, while watching a HD movie, I can dump it out (via Svideo) to my hard drive dvd recorder, or I can archive a "recorded" movie from the box in the same way.

I would think so...the other day I was getting ABC and CBS and UPN, but could not pick up 41-DT, which was odd...

I still need to try the big rooftop antenna...but I can't find anyone to help out.

Originally posted by Craash
Check out the thread in the HD Recorder forum for a full report, but the main is an improved HD picture, and all analog outputs are active. So, while watching a HD movie, I can dump it out (via Svideo) to my hard drive dvd recorder, or I can archive a "recorded" movie from the box in the same way. Yes, video dump (VCR output archiving) is active on the new box ... The 8300 also adds the new HDMI digital audio/video connection (no more DVI).. It adds a Serial ATA (SATA) connector for external hard drive for more storage space. The menus are faster and there is supposed to be improvements to the picture on the non-HD channels. The new box is much smaller too.

What is the latest on getting KSMO-DT (WB-HD) added to TWC?

Originally posted by jeffdbs
Hope this helps..................http://www.tvradioworld.com/region1/mo/tv_information.asp?m=kan

Jeff,

This link has some bad information on it. For example, WDAF-DT is shown at full power!

To specifically answer lovemymac's question:

KSMO-DT 47 - 9kw ERP (will be 1000 @ full power)
KSHB-DT 42 - 450 kW ERP (full power)
KMCI-DT 38 - 500 kW ERP (full power)

Brad

Can someone explain to me why I have NO problem whatsoever getting UPN-DT, but have trouble with KCTV, KSHB, PBS, etc...?

I still need to try the big rooftop antenna...but I can't find anyone to help out. [/B][/QUOTE]

I've been following your thread for a while. Have you considered putting an antenna in your attic? Although I never like to recommend particular products, Winegard makes a killer antenna. Their model HD7082P has extremely good specs for both VHF, (most important) and UHF. It's a bit pricey but you get what you pay for. Here's the URL if you'd like to see the tech info. http://winegard.com/off-air/pdf/hd7082p.pdf

FYI, I live about 20 miles from our transmitters and use an R-shack VU-90 XR in the attic of a normal 2 story home and get perfect reception on all the analog and digital channels, (except Fox, of course but they'll be there eventually).

BTW, regarding the VHF "most important" comment, I couldn't help myself.

PS: For you Time Warner people, there could be a local UPN station show up on TWC in the near future. The equipment is ordered...TI

Originally posted by Bradtothebone
Jeff,

This link has some bad information on it. For example, WDAF-DT is shown at full power!

To specifically answer lovemymac's question:

KSMO-DT 47 - 9kw ERP (will be 1000 @ full power)
KSHB-DT 42 - 450 kW ERP (full power)
KMCI-DT 38 - 500 kW ERP (full power)

Brad

Thanks Brad. Can you list the power output for all local Kansas City digital broadcasters? Thanks :)

Well, I made another stab at this tonight since it was nice out...I rigged up a setup to get the big combo Antenna in the air, and was able to pick up all the UHF channels out of KC...not REAL strong, but I didn't try too hard either because I was ecstatic that I got them all to come up...

Didn't unfold the VHF part of the antenna because I already know I can get the KMBC-DT signal on it...

Now, Just gotta mount this sucker...and I think I'm good to go...

I really don't think the attic would work due to space issues.

The wife is just THRILLED that we're gonna have this thing on the roof, but hopefully watching According to Jim in HD will make her happy!

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
Well, I made another stab at this tonight since it was nice out...I rigged up a setup to get the big combo Antenna in the air, and was able to pick up all the UHF channels out of KC...not REAL strong, but I didn't try too hard either because I was ecstatic that I got them all to come up...

Didn't unfold the VHF part of the antenna because I already know I can get the KMBC-DT signal on it...

Now, Just gotta mount this sucker...and I think I'm good to go...

I really don't think the attic would work due to space issues.

The wife is just THRILLED that we're gonna have this thing on the roof, but hopefully watching According to Jim in HD will make her happy!

Something to think about...............If possible return the antenna and try a smaller antenna before deciding if you need to install this big antenna. I am amazed with all the high-power digital broadcasters in Kansas City how small some of the VHF/UHF antennas people purchase and still get high signal strengths. We must keep the wife happy on any antenna install. :)

Hello everyone. It's time for me to jump in to the scene. I am just getting ramped up on HD in KC. I live in Grain Valley, just east of Blue Spings by about a half mile or so, right off of Duncan Road. If I recall correctly from reading earlier posts, Andrew77 is not far from me. Anyway, I bought a Winegard PR8800 antenna and stand recently for a great price from another AVSForum member in the area. I bought it not having read up on it as it was a "last minute, didn't want to pass up a chance at a good thing" kind of deal. I was hoping to get some feedback as to what I should expect once I get it installed, or if I should even bother.

-Joe

Originally posted by jeffdbs
I am amazed with all the high-power digital broadcasters in Kansas City how small some of the VHF/UHF antennas people purchase and still get high signal strengths. We must keep the wife happy on any antenna install. :)
Antenna 101 -

Size has nothing to do with power. It has all to do with the length of the transmitted wave. The higher the frequency (or channel in this case) the smaller the antenna. A wave length at channel 2 is around 19 ft. At channel 6 it is around 10 ft. At channel 7 it is around 5 ft. At channel 13 it is around 4 ft. At channel 14 it is around 2 ft and at channel 69 it is around 1 ft.

Antenna manufactures use either halve or quarter waves to build antennas with so they are not so huge and they group the channels so each group, 2-6, 7-13 and UHF have sections that are devoted to each group for best reception. When you look at a yagi antenna, the end with all of the much smaller elements are UHF. If UHF is all you needed, you could take the longer elements at the other end off and it wouldn't effect the UHF performance much at all. You wouldn't have any VHF though! ;) With the smaller UHF wave lengths, the screen type antennas like the CM 4228 work really well since the spread of frequency verses the size of the wavelength is something that is manageable for higher gains. That is why a CM 4228 will kinda work for channels 7-13, but will not work with channels 2-6 but works like gang busters for UHF.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by foxeng
[B]Antenna 101 -

"If UHF is all you needed, you could take the longer elements at the other end off and it wouldn't effect the UHF performance much at all. You wouldn't have any VHF though! ;)"

Don't forget that you need VHF reception in this area for Monday Night Football and all the rest of the terrific ABC prime-time programming in HD.....TI

Originally posted by technicalitalian
Originally posted by foxeng Don't forget that you need VHF reception in this area for Monday Night Football and all the rest of the terrific ABC prime-time programming in HD.....TI

Just to be clear, I was only using the UHF only as an example and not as an indicator you should slight ANY VHF digital stations! :)

I'm still amazed that I got the Silver Sensor to pull in ABC and CBS at the same time...

Wife wants to mount the Silver Sensor outside... :)

Originally posted by jeffdbs
Thanks Brad. Can you list the power output for all local Kansas City digital broadcasters? Thanks :)

Here is a spreadsheet that I try to keep up to date. It includes some Topeka stations of interest, but is not intended to be all-inclusive.

Brad

Brad, am I reading that correctly that most of these stations are going to be, at some time, broadcasting digitally at a MUCH higher power than they are currently?

For instance, KCTV plans to go from 225kW to 1000kW?

I can't speak for the other locations, but the Barry Trails TWC store has a handful of the 8300HD DVR's in. Get 'em while they last.

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
Brad, am I reading that correctly that most of these stations are going to be, at some time, broadcasting digitally at a MUCH higher power than they are currently?

For instance, KCTV plans to go from 225kW to 1000kW?

Yes, that's correct. The number in parentheses is the current ERP, and the other number is the power in their license application. The four majors (ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX) in the top 100 (I believe) DMAs are required by the FCC to go to full licensed power by July 2005, or risk losing their protected areas.

Brad

What channels if any does TWC broadcast in clear QAM? I can get most of the local channels OTA but have to constantly adjust my antenna.

Thanks

Bradtothebone wrote:
The four majors (ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX) in the top 100 (I believe) DMAs are required by the FCC to go to full licensed power by July 2005, or risk losing their protected areas.
Do you know if they will still be able to file extenstions like many of our KC stations did with the May 2002 deadline? Or is the FCC saying that you absolutely must be full power by July or else?

Originally posted by Craash
I can't speak for the other locations, but the Barry Trails TWC store has a handful of the 8300HD DVR's in. Get 'em while they last.

That's funny, I called at 2:00 and they said they didn't have ANY hd-dvr's LIARS...
either that or they ran out.

Originally posted by jledger
Hello everyone. It's time for me to jump in to the scene. I am just getting ramped up on HD in KC. I live in Grain Valley, just east of Blue Spings by about a half mile or so, right off of Duncan Road. If I recall correctly from reading earlier posts, Andrew77 is not far from me. Anyway, I bought a Winegard PR8800 antenna and stand recently for a great price from another AVSForum member in the area. I bought it not having read up on it as it was a "last minute, didn't want to pass up a chance at a good thing" kind of deal. I was hoping to get some feedback as to what I should expect once I get it installed, or if I should even bother.

-Joe

Welcome jledger- You should be able to receive all Kansas City digital broadcasters except WDAF. Using RG-6 shielded coax cable and a ground block along with a good VHF/UHF attic/outdoor antenna will bring rewards of free Over-the-Air digital and HDTV programming of PBS, ABC, CBS, NBC, UPN, WB, PAX, independent stations and soon FOX. Glad to have your voice here in the local Kansas City HDTV forum. :)

Originally posted by DTmovies
What channels if any does TWC broadcast in clear QAM? I can get most of the local channels OTA but have to constantly adjust my antenna.

Thanks

Welcome DTmovies- someone with Time Warner programming will be along soon to answer your question just wanted to say hello. What type of Over-the-Air antenna do you have for HDTV reception? Hopefully we can help you on the antenna adjustment so one direction is all you need to receive all the local HDTV Over-the-Air channels. :) Glad you can join our local Kansas City HDTV forum.

Originally posted by Bradtothebone
Here is a spreadsheet that I try to keep up to date. It includes some Topeka stations of interest, but is not intended to be all-inclusive.

Brad

Thank you Brad. :)

Originally posted by hdtimmy
Do you know if they will still be able to file extenstions like many of our KC stations did with the May 2002 deadline? Or is the FCC saying that you absolutely must be full power by July or else?

The FCC will allow one 6 month extension if a station can show they are close to being finished and need a little more time to finish. Beyond that, a station is out of luck.

Originally posted by kcjefff
That's funny, I called at 2:00 and they said they didn't have ANY hd-dvr's LIARS...
either that or they ran out.

This is interesting. I picked mine up yesterday at noon. After I got it home, I liked it so well (guys, this is an awsome box) I decided to replace my bedroom HD box (non-dvr) with an 8300HD. I called and was also told they had none. Keep in mind, the clerk at Barry Trails is the one that told me that had tons.

I'm sent an email to my contact, so see what he says.

Just heard back. My second 8300HD is up there and waiting on me.

Originally posted by foxeng
The FCC will allow one 6 month extension if a station can show they are close to being finished and need a little more time to finish. Beyond that, a station is out of luck.

Thanks for the info, foxeng. You saved me from having to look it up!

Brad

Originally posted by jledger
Hello everyone. It's time for me to jump in to the scene. I am just getting ramped up on HD in KC. I live in Grain Valley, just east of Blue Spings by about a half mile or so, right off of Duncan Road. If I recall correctly from reading earlier posts, Andrew77 is not far from me. Anyway, I bought a Winegard PR8800 antenna and stand recently for a great price from another AVSForum member in the area. I bought it not having read up on it as it was a "last minute, didn't want to pass up a chance at a good thing" kind of deal. I was hoping to get some feedback as to what I should expect once I get it installed, or if I should even bother.

-Joe

I live in Summerfield. How about yourself?

Originally posted by jledger
Hello everyone. It's time for me to jump in to the scene. I am just getting ramped up on HD in KC. I live in Grain Valley, just east of Blue Spings by about a half mile or so, right off of Duncan Road. If I recall correctly from reading earlier posts, Andrew77 is not far from me. Anyway, I bought a Winegard PR8800 antenna and stand recently for a great price from another AVSForum member in the area. I bought it not having read up on it as it was a "last minute, didn't want to pass up a chance at a good thing" kind of deal. I was hoping to get some feedback as to what I should expect once I get it installed, or if I should even bother.

-Joe

I live in Summerfield. How about yourself?

I'm going to take this as good news (RE: going full power) as it looks like none of them are anywhere near the power they plan to be at, so if I can get them now, it should be REAL easy when they go full power.

Thanks for the helpful answers.

I just got back from picking up my second SA8300HD DVR. The store rep said that they still had some, but they were keeping them for walk-in's and that is why the CSR's wasn't aware of them.

Originally posted by jeffdbs
Welcome DTmovies- someone with Time Warner programming will be along soon to answer your question just wanted to say hello. What type of Over-the-Air antenna do you have for HDTV reception? Hopefully we can help you on the antenna adjustment so one direction is all you need to receive all the local HDTV Over-the-Air channels. :) Glad you can join our local Kansas City HDTV forum.


I use a combination of Radio Shack rabbit ears (for ABC) and a Silver Sensor. With this setup I can receive all the KC channels (except FOX) I just switch when I want to watch ABC. The problem is if I adjust the Silver Sensor to receive one channel I lose or get bad reception on another.
Examples: I get KCPT I lose KCTV, I get KSHB I lose or get poor reception (audio drop out or Pixelation/blocky picture?) on KCPT and KCTV. I can't seem to find a sweet spot.
I'm in the Northland if that helps. I have suggested an attic or roof top antenna to my wife but she was not very keen about the idea. An QAM tuner seemed to be a good solution if we can get most of channels from TWC, and have the Silver Sensor setup for the rest.

Thanks

I actually mounted my Silver Sensor outside on the side of my chimney pointing towards downtown. I'm out east in Grain Valley so that works well for me. It withstands the weather just fine and I can get all the channels including KCTV with just that one antenna.

andrew...How did you mount the Silver Sensor? Just wondering because I wouldn't mind seeing if I could get that to work...

craash--thanks for the heads up. I picked one up this eve. at the Overland park store--they had < 10. Haven't had a chance to hook it up yet.

Thanks Craash - I just picked one up at the OP office as well. I would highly recommend anyone that has the 8000HD make the swap. Better search, much quicker channel changes, no audio drops (not yet anyway), and the PQ seems to be better.

I drilled through the base of it and then drove a wood screw through the hole in the base into my chimney which is made of wood trim. I put the antenna into the base so that the vanes are horizontal and made sure to mount it so it faces west towards KC. I then ran RG6 down the side of my house and in through the cable TV access box into the house. I also made sure to ground it real well. This antenna works great outside.

Yes it does....I may try putting it up there and seeing what happens...

Originally posted by andrewe77
I live in Summerfield. How about yourself?

I live just down the road in Rosewood Hills. :)

I got my 8300HD box tonight too ... drove up to the Wyandotte office to get it. Always makes you feel special when the windows have cages on them and the workers sit behind a bullet-proof glass shield. The 8300HD is a much better box than the 8000HD in every regard.

I have a couple of questions. I will be moving in a week to roughly 247th and State Line. Does anyone professionally install antennas? I've built a new house with a metal roof....will that keep me from using an attic antenna? I do have a chimney that might work for installation, or I wouldn't object to a small tower being installed on my land. I have D* and a Radio Shack antenna where I am now (near 175th and State Line) Any help you guys can give me would be greatly appreciated.

A metal roof will definitely block the signal. Try installing an antenna off of your chimney.

djones0865, I used Antenna Masters out of Mission, KS. Great install and very nice guy.

Originally posted by boku
djones0865, I used Antenna Masters out of Mission, KS. Great install and very nice guy.

I second Antenna Masters, he helped me out with info for getting an antenna to work in my apt. I am surprised there are not more installers in the area, we are one of the top markets for OTA.

Anyone know of a way to find out if tonight's catastrophe on ESPN will be in HD?

TitanTV says it's not, but I don't believe them on everything.

I don't think it is...

About how much do installers charge? I would be interested in hiring someone to put mine up just to make sure it gets grounded properly, etc...

It's not, I checked ESPN's website, it's next HD game is Thursday . . .

As much as this statement doesn't make sense, I actually think tonight's game might be close, don't ask me why though. Maybe Quin will finally decide what he wants his team to be, then allow them to play . . .

They must be doing the ESPN2 HD push. They have a Women's Georgia v Tennessee and then Men's Providence v Pitt, both in HD on ESPN 2 while the MU v KU game on ESPN is not. Damn TWC for not adding ESPN2HD!

Damn TWC for not adding ESPN2HD
Unfortunately TWC is in very good company. Almost no one has added the Deuce HD yet. I strongly suspect people are right in smelling an ESPN plan to move several events to ESPN2 HD in hopes there will be an outcry. In September when ESPN2 HD was first announced I e-mailed management at Sunflower cable about whether would be adding ESPN2 HD when it became available. Their response really surprised me. They called ESPN HD a "PR scam" in that only 10% (their number) of programing was HD. They said it is expensive and a bad value for them and their customers and that they would consider ESPN2 HD but it was obvious they were in no hurry. We shall see.

It is appears the superbowl is going to be broadcasted in analog on Comcast; does anyone know of any different? Seems kinda of ridiculous. I have a projector and fox looks about as bad as any channel.

Originally posted by jholsapple
It is apperars the superbowl is going to be broadcasted in analog on Comcast;

Thank you Captain Obvious!

Thanks to this forum picked up the 8300HD DVR from Time Warner Cable in Overland Park on Saturday! Intial impressions are very positive, being able to record HD is certainly a BIG BIG plus!! :) My DVD Recorder won't be getting much use now. Luckily I didn't have a Tivo so the 8300HD Guide seems pretty easy to use and gets the job done.

Had my first reboot while recording a program I was watching and tried to use the 8 second repeat, unit froze and rebooted. :( Unfortunately I expect some bugs but not on par with the 8000HD....we'll see.

Couple of questions though:

-VCR Archive feature doesn't appear as an option although the SA Manual from their website says it should. Is this a TWC specific change? The only way then to archive to a VCR/DVD is to play the program on the DVR and record it with a VCR/DVD? This would record any onsceen activity, etc?

-Set up menu doesn't appear, once again the manual TWC says to press Guide and Info at the same time to enter the set up menu. Everything appears okay despite this, I set the output formats under the settings menu. Another TWC change?

-RF/Cable Out only passes through the signal for the channel the 8300HD is tuned to or the content that it is being played. I thought this would pass through the analog cable channels to run to my DVD recorder? Is this what everyone is experiencing.? Guess I'll need to install a splitter before the cable box to run to the DVD recorder.

Thanks!

Originally posted by jholsapple
It is appears the superbowl is going to be broadcasted in analog on Comcast; does anyone know of any different? Seems kinda of ridiculous. I have a projector and fox looks about as bad as any channel.

jholsapple-Hopefully Comcast and WDAF can work out a way for Comcast to receive the WDAF DT-34 HDTV Over-the-Air signal in time for the Super Bowl. Calling Comcast may help speed Comcast up to figure a way to get the WDAF HDTV 720p feed via Over-the-Air or land line fiber connection. Glad to have your input here at the local Kansas City HDTV forum. :)

Welcome cec33 :)

I'm in Rosewood Hills too.

Originally posted by Bradtothebone
Yes, that's correct. The number in parentheses is the current ERP, and the other number is the power in their license application. The four majors (ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX) in the top 100 (I believe) DMAs are required by the FCC to go to full licensed power by July 2005, or risk losing their protected areas.

Brad


Thanks Brad...

I will look forward to these going up in power...wish 41 would bump up a little bit...

Originally posted by jholsapple
It is appears the superbowl is going to be broadcasted in analog on Comcast; does anyone know of any different? Seems kinda of ridiculous. I have a projector and fox looks about as bad as any channel.

i bought a zenith silver sensor today from sears but am unable to pick up the fox signal. unfortunately it looks like i can pick everything else up, but that wont do me any good for the superbowl.

Originally posted by jholsapple
It is appears the superbowl is going to be broadcasted in analog on Comcast; does anyone know of any different? Seems kinda of ridiculous. I have a projector and fox looks about as bad as any channel.

I just switched to Comcast yesterday. I agree that Fox is the worst picture. I hope they can figure out a way to get HD for the Super Bowl.

The Super bowl is one of the main reasons why I switched from Comcast to D*. That, and the ability to watch other FOX shows in HD (24) plus its cheaper than Comcast's ever-rising rates!

Still time to get DirecTv in time for the Super Bowl...

I'll be tuned to Fox 5 out of NYC all day Sunday!

Hey all, I am selling my 55" Sharp HDTV. Good time to get one for the big game. I live in Lee's Summit. PM me if interested...

ok... The FoxHD on Comcast thing isn't just a rumor. Comcast is working with Time Warner and they'll have it -by- the Superbowl. I was told 'by the Superbowl' because Comcast/Time Warner is currently waiting on some additional equipment.

FoxHD will be on 213.

Also, Comcast is currently in the negotiation phase of getting TNT HD and ESPN2HD. There is no ETA on either of those channels.

Originally posted by Jerky
ok... The FoxHD on Comcast thing isn't just a rumor. Comcast is working with Time Warner and they'll have it -by- the Superbowl. I was told 'by the Superbowl' because Comcast/Time Warner is currently waiting on some additional equipment.

FoxHD will be on 213.

Also, Comcast is currently in the negotiation phase of getting TNT HD and ESPN2HD. There is no ETA on either of those channels.

Thanks for the information Jerky. :)

Originally posted by Jerky
ok... The FoxHD on Comcast thing isn't just a rumor. Comcast is working with Time Warner and they'll have it -by- the Superbowl. I was told 'by the Superbowl' because Comcast/Time Warner is currently waiting on some additional equipment.

FoxHD will be on 213.

Also, Comcast is currently in the negotiation phase of getting TNT HD and ESPN2HD. There is no ETA on either of those channels.


I hope this really happens :D

A little OT, but this might be of interest to some of you:

On a whim, I scanned for FM HD Radio stations this morning. To my surprise, I found 4!!

96.5 The Buzz (Too much compression, sounds terrible)
98.1 KUDL (Sounds Excellent, CD Quality, No Static)
99.7 KY (Sounds OK, Could be better)
106.5 WDAF (Sounds OK, Could be better)

I haven't scanned AM for any digital stations yet.

Comcast... FoxHD... Channels 213 and 234 (same programming)... by 2pm... both Kansas and Missouri... Enjoy...

That's great news, Jerky! Did you mean 2 pm today or 2pm Sunday?

Originally posted by hdtimmy
A little OT, but this might be of interest to some of you:

On a whim, I scanned for FM HD Radio stations this morning. To my surprise, I found 4!!

96.5 The Buzz (Too much compression, sounds terrible)
98.1 KUDL (Sounds Excellent, CD Quality, No Static)
99.7 KY (Sounds OK, Could be better)
106.5 WDAF (Sounds OK, Could be better)

I haven't scanned AM for any digital stations yet.

OK, I'll bite......what did you use to scan for these, hdtimmy?

Brad

Originally posted by jledger
I live just down the road in Rosewood Hills. :)

Welcome neighbor. Me too.

Originally posted by Jerky
Comcast... FoxHD... Channels 213 and 234 (same programming)... by 2pm... both Kansas and Missouri... Enjoy...

OMG. How much it sucks to be at work now. I just read this and fell out of my chair.

Please please please be on when I get home..........

FoxHD is now available for Comcast customers. It IS on right now. I checked... :) The Guide info hasn't been loaded for it yet, so that may not reflect properly for a little bit.

Ok, so i was a few minutes off :) it was on at 2:04p.

Originally posted by Jerky
FoxHD is now available for Comcast customers. It IS on right now. I checked... :) The Guide info hasn't been loaded for it yet, so that may not reflect properly for a little bit.

Ok, so i was a few minutes off :) it was on at 2:04p.

I second Jerkys comment, FOXHD is up & running!!! Guide reflects both channels.
Going to call Comcast now & thank them. Not that the person i talk to probably cares, but they came thru for their customers.

Nice that just about everyone will be able to get the Superbowl in HD.

The one negative is that WDAF will not have to take all the lumps that they should for being such an HD deadbeat.

Originally posted by 4MUKC
Nice that just about everyone will be able to get the Superbowl in HD.

The one negative is that WDAF will not have to take all the lumps that they should for being such an HD deadbeat.


What will we have to talk about now? :) :) :)

Bradtothebone Wrote:
OK, I'll bite......what did you use to scan for these, hdtimmy?

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-RP55m3GE13x/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=186850&I=257KDSHX90

Excellent head unit. I have been dying to use the HD Radio feature. Oh and BTW, I definitely didn't pay Crutchfield's price!!

Good to hear Comcast picked up Fox in the nick of time! Someone should get ahold of Chris or a mod to update the first post in this thread. It's horribly outdated and would avoid a lot of questions from people unwilling to sift.

I've been out of the loop of this thread for months. Is Fox broadcasting full power OTA yet? Last guess I heard was summer '05 so I'm guessing not.

Originally posted by housecor
Good to hear Comcast picked up Fox in the nick of time! Someone should get ahold of Chris or a mod to update the first post in this thread. It's horribly outdated and would avoid a lot of questions from people unwilling to sift.

I've been out of the loop of this thread for months. Is Fox broadcasting full power OTA yet? Last guess I heard was summer '05 so I'm guessing not.

I do wonder where is Chris nowdays. Chris was one of the first crusaders of full-power and full-bandwidth local Kansas City HDTV digital broadcasting.

Bradtothebone-your local television power chart is excellent work. You seem like the right person to contact the moderator of this AVS forum to upgrade page #1 with today's correct Kansas City local digital television channel numbers and power output. :)

Originally posted by Jerky
FoxHD is now available for Comcast customers. It IS on right now. I checked... :) The Guide info hasn't been loaded for it yet, so that may not reflect properly for a little bit.

Ok, so i was a few minutes off :) it was on at 2:04p.


Wonderful news. The great people who read this local Kansas City HDTV forum do make good things happen here in Kansas City. Now we Over the Air HDTV viewers are really looking forward to seeing WDAF FOX Over the Air HDTV DT-34 come to life soon in the entire metro area. Thank you everyone who made WDAF FOX HDTV available on cable throughout the Kansas City metro television viewing area. :)

I am in Olathe and cannot receive Fox4 with my attic antenna. I am a dish person and use ota for all hdtv. I suppose fox4 will suck and not be full power on sunday, or did I not understand things correctly?

I am currently building a new house in Olathe. IS there a good antenna available that will pick up the KC channels and the Topeka channels in HD without rotating it? I am not planning on moving my current antenna,since it is too difficult to remove right now?

Thanks

Antenna question
I am currently building a new house in Olathe. IS there a good antenna available that will pick up the KC channels and the Topeka channels in HD without rotating it? I am not planning on moving my current antenna,since it is too difficult to remove right now?

Thanks


You will have to rotate the antenna. Look at some of my posts in this thread from last summer. I DX'ed KTWU & WIBW from Topeka. The best reception (steadiest) was after sunset. I was trying to see if I could get a FOX digital signal from Topeka. No luck. The people on the Topeka thread said that their FOX station had no plans to go digital. It would go dark unless it got bought out.

Originally posted by hawktigr
I am in Olathe and cannot receive Fox4 with my attic antenna. I am a dish person and use ota for all hdtv. I suppose fox4 will suck and not be full power on sunday, or did I not understand things correctly?

hawktigr- I just got finished with a sweep of the horizons with my outdoor antenna and rotor. I parked my antenna pointed straight at the WDAF tower. For me here in outer Jackson County still no picture on Over the Air WDAF DT-34. I was hoping WDAF would boost their Over the Air broadcasting digital power for the Super Bowl. So here we wait us outer Kansas City Over the Air digital viewers for a digital signal from WDAF. Hopefully this early summer on DT-34. :)

I didn't even notice I had foxhd till I checked this forum. That is freaking awesome. I was prepared to watch the superbowl in non HD!

But why do they have two channels showing the same thing?

Oh yeah... i forgot about that... the reason FoxHD is in 2 places is because there is going to be a digital channel re-alignment 'soon'. No one i talked to seemed to know when it would happen. But apparently the only reason FoxHD is on channel 213, the logical location, is because one of the head end tech guys insisted it be put there too. I'll give the thread a heads up when i catch wind about when the realignment will happen.

Don't get me wrong, I'm happy for all you Kansas City cable viewers, but this sucks. It gives FOX4 even less reason to increase power for us OTA viewers. The cable system we have here in Paola has no plans to carry any HD until the analog signals are turned off. I'm not even sure if they won't down-convert everything then.

Originally posted by Gleyser
Don't get me wrong, I'm happy for all you Kansas City cable viewers, but this sucks. It gives FOX4 even less reason to increase power for us OTA viewers.

I agree .. those of use without cable or D*, I have E* ;-( will have to suffer without HD for sunday.

Originally posted by mws6468
I agree .. those of use without cable or D*, I have E* ;-( will have to suffer without HD for sunday.

mws, where in KCK are you? I'm in Piper and get FOX's OTA loud and clear.

Originally posted by GVbhunt
Welcome neighbor. Me too.

Good to see some more Grain Valley folks in the forum. I live in Countryside....

While this doesn't give them more incentive, I will say again that I heard Boal talking about this on 810 and he said that there are parts that have been promised them by FOX that are to be in there by no later than 7/3/05....Remember, they are the only station that are O&O in KC...

That's what he kept saying...I'm getting it because of D*, but look forward to picking up all of them OTA one day...

I came home last night from a business trip and noticed that KCTV and KSHB are both coming in as 720p, instead of the 1080i that they used to. Has anyone else noticed this, or do I need to re-check my setup? I haven't changed anything on my end...

Originally posted by jwprimetime
mws, where in KCK are you? I'm in Piper and get FOX's OTA loud and clear.

JW,
I currently live in an apt in Lenexa, close to Shawnee Mission Park. I can get most OTA with my little RS indoor ant and cut channel for ABC, but no FOX or WB (i don't care). My apt complex is a pain in the @$$, we cannot get cable, and i did not want to sign a year with D* at the time, we are currently looking for a house, so i will be "testing" the signal before buying :-)

Originally posted by two934s
I came home last night from a business trip and noticed that KCTV and KSHB are both coming in as 720p, instead of the 1080i that they used to. Has anyone else noticed this, or do I need to re-check my setup? I haven't changed anything on my end...


Can you try a channel rescan? KSHB NBC HDTV and KCTV CBS HDTV are both strong 1080i programming channels.

Today, they are back to 1080i. Not sure what the deal was. I was watching the news on channel 5-1 and it said 720p which I thought was odd, so I changed it to 41-1 and it showed up as 720p as well. Today, its back to where it usually is... strange!

Thanks

TO: turn_it_up

I have noticed that the audio on KSMO is cutting out again this week. Did you have to go back that older audio software? What is the name of, and who is the developer of that software? I work as a Quality Assurance tester for a software developer and am curious about what vendor supplies the software that you broadcasters are using.

turn_it_up -
Any progress at all with getting KSMO-DT added to the Time Warner Cable HD lineup anytime soon?! I have tried an OTA antenna in western Shawnee and have no luck at all. It's just not strong enough to pick up out here for me. TWC is my only lifeline to HD Smallville.

I get it through trees and hills from 50 miles away...

The Superbowl was constantly pixellated for me using my Time Warner cable box. Anyone else experience this or was it just me?

Other channels seemed to be doing fine.

I'm in Olathe, noticed Thursday that Comcast had one of their 'Available Shortly' messages on for the new HD channels for WDAF - 213 and 234. Got audio on my other boxes Sun. AM, but nothing on the HD box. Called repair. They had people doing house calls on Super Sunday! Guy comes, changes out an old splitter, signal comes in perfect! He tells me the deal is that Comcast went to TWC in OP, buys a link to their fiber feed from WDAF just in time for Super Bowl. Apparently rest of the local HD will remain OTA quality for near future on Comcast...

LiveLite-
We have made several significant changes to things at KSMO. WB has resumed DD 5.1 audio broadcasts, we have transitioned to a new traffic system for scheduling of automated on air events, and have started receiving psip guide information from Tribune Media Service, I hate to change this many things at once, but most are out of my hands. If you could help me out by giving some detail regarding time and length of audio dropouts I'll dig in. The software I refer to is the firmware in the sat receiver. It was also upgraded last Monday to prepare for full time DD 5.1 from WB. Although this has been a problem in the past, I don't think the new software is creating audio problems.

Eyedox-
No real news to report regarding adding KSMO to Time Warner HD lineup. I live about a block from Johnson Drive and Monticello and pick us up with an amplified RCA indoor antenna. Model number is Ant200B (standard Walmart $25.00 unit) Will post more info as we hear it from the powers that be.

Originally posted by two934s
I came home last night from a business trip and noticed that KCTV and KSHB are both coming in as 720p, instead of the 1080i that they used to. Has anyone else noticed this, or do I need to re-check my setup? I haven't changed anything on my end...

How do you know and why should I care if it is in 1080 or 720? I'm not being a smartass, I'm seriously interested in this.

Thanks.

BTW, here is a shot of Grain Valley for all you GV members:
Visit my album if you want to see other photos of Metro KC.

kc-photos.com


http://photos.imageevent.com/kcgridlock/kansascitymissourisuburbs/websize/gv_07.jpg

Originally posted by KCMO
How do you know and why should I care if it is in 1080 or 720? I'm not being a smartass, I'm seriously interested in this.

Thanks.

BTW, here is a shot of Grain Valley for all you GV members:
Visit my album if you want to see other photos of Metro KC.

kc-photos.com


Try this note on 720p and 1080i. http://www.bigpicture-hdtv.com/technology.html

KCMO,

The kc-photos site is great.

We seem to have a KC AVS cluster off Duncan Rd. My brother lives in Summerfield, I live up the road in Stone Bridge & have a friend across the street at the Country Club (Gardens?).

You've got another forum member in that area, I'm in Waterfield, just north of Duncan and west of Adams Dairy Pkwy.

Originally posted by KCMO
How do you know and why should I care if it is in 1080 or 720? I'm not being a smartass, I'm seriously interested in this.


I have D* and the HD receiver I have is a H10, there is a display on the front of it that shows whether the programming is in 480, 720 or 1080.

As for why should I care -- although there isn't much difference between 720 and 1080, I can tell that 1080 looks a little bit better. An example of this would be to watch a football game on fox, then watch one on cbs. The quality is noticably better on cbs. Other than that, they are pretty much the same and I really don't care whether its 1080 or 720. I'm just glad that its not 480!!

Originally posted by turn_it_up
No real news to report regarding adding KSMO to Time Warner HD lineup. I live about a block from Johnson Drive and Monticello and pick us up with an amplified RCA indoor antenna. Model number is Ant200B (standard Walmart $25.00 unit) Will post more info as we hear it from the powers that be. Hmmm ... I tried an amplified indoor antenna from Target (RCA top-of-the-line $45), and it picked up most of the locals but not KSMO and of course WDAF. Maybe my Mits HDTV cannot read your PSIP info. My brother in law has the same Mits HD set in Olathe and a huge amplified rooftop antenna, and he also can receive all signals except KSMO and WDAF. I don't know what else to try, but I am having no luck enjoying WB in HD. :( Also, will KSMO-DT be boosting their weak (9 kw) signal to full strength by the required July 1st, 2005 FCC deadline like WDAF? Do you think it will take years to add WB-HD to Time Warner Cable, or are we only a few months away from a carriage agreement?

Originally posted by BoothT
I'm in Olathe, noticed Thursday that Comcast had one of their 'Available Shortly' messages on for the new HD channels for WDAF - 213 and 234. Got audio on my other boxes Sun. AM, but nothing on the HD box. Called repair. They had people doing house calls on Super Sunday! Guy comes, changes out an old splitter, signal comes in perfect! He tells me the deal is that Comcast went to TWC in OP, buys a link to their fiber feed from WDAF just in time for Super Bowl. Apparently rest of the local HD will remain OTA quality for near future on Comcast...

Out of curiousity...What do you mean by local HD remaining OTA quality on Comcast?

I've got a dumb question...

I know that the HD tuner in my Samsung 260 will take the digital signal OTA and broadcast it on my HD-Ready TV..

My question is this...if you tune to the digital channel of a station on a regular old TV, will it display it, just not display the HD version of broadcasts?

If I'm not asking it right, let me know...

Originally posted by the_karl
The Superbowl was constantly pixellated for me using my Time Warner cable box. Anyone else experience this or was it just me?

Other channels seemed to be doing fine.

PQ was excellent for me through TWC with a cableCARD. No pixelation. This was by far the most impressive PQ I've seen from Fox.

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
I've got a dumb question...

My question is this...if you tune to the digital channel of a station on a regular old TV, will it display it, just not display the HD version of broadcasts?

If I'm not asking it right, let me know...

Just static as if the channel was clear.

foxeng...thanks for the help.

So, when the analog signal goes off the air...those TV's will be useless with an OTA antenna, correct?

When are the analog signals to be dead?

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
foxeng...thanks for the help.

So, when the analog signal goes off the air...those TV's will be useless with an OTA antenna, correct?

When are the analog signals to be dead?

"691 days until the schedule end of analog television broadcasting".

http://broadcastengineering.com/news/highlights/Dtv-deadline-hard-20050206/

Time is very short and the march to full-power and full-bandwidth local HDTV broadcasting is getting louder now. Looks like Kansas City television broadcasters will be ready for the schedule end of analog television broadcasting at the end of next year. :)

Well, thanks for the replies concerning 740 vs 1080, but I still never know what programing is in what format. Do I have to change any setting or is this all done by the TV? I did notice that FOX does not seem quite as sharp as ABC in HD though.

Also, any other suburban east comcast people having problems with thier box? Mine keeps freezing up randomly when I attempt to do something with the remote like change the channel or access the guide. The box will freeze up and then will perform all the buttons I pushed at once after a long delay. It's annoying and Comcast says they can't fix it becasue it's a sofware problem or something but they are working on it.

Originally posted by KCMO
Well, thanks for the replies concerning 740 vs 1080, but I still never know what programing is in what format. Do I have to change any setting or is this all done by the TV? I did notice that FOX does not seem quite as sharp as ABC in HD though.

Also, any other suburban east comcast people having problems with thier box? Mine keeps freezing up randomly when I attempt to do something with the remote like change the channel or access the guide. The box will freeze up and then will perform all the buttons I pushed at once after a long delay. It's annoying and Comcast says they can't fix it becasue it's a sofware problem or something but they are working on it.

I believe that FOX and ABC are bot 720p. CBS and NBC come thru in 1080i. You're right, there isn't much difference but there is a subtle one. There should be a setting on your tv to display the image as "native", which means it'll display it in the format that it gets from the line. Other combinations could be 480p/1080i, 480p/720p, 480p only, 1080i only, etc. I have mine set on "native".

I used to have Comcast and switched to D* partly because of the freezing problem you describe with your cable box... it was very annoying. They too told me that its a problem with the cable box itself, and they were working on getting the software upgraded so the problem would be fixed. Who knows when it'll actually happen.

turn_it_up Wrote:
If you could help me out by giving some detail regarding time and length of audio dropouts I'll dig in.

Gilmore Girls, Tuesday Night:
Sound was slightly behind the picture for the entire episode.
Approx. 7 minutes into the episode the sound "stuck" like a skipping CD. This lasted for a couple of seconds.
Approx. 30 and 41 minutes into the episode the sound went silent for a few seconds.

I have been hearing the same quirks in other shows such as Everwood and Jack&Bobby.

Otherwise, keep up the good work, there aren't too many cities that have a WB station that broadcasts in HD and is easy to receive (esp. when compared to FOX4).

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
So, when the analog signal goes off the air...those TV's will be useless with an OTA antenna, correct?

If all they have is an analog OTA, yes.

When are the analog signals to be dead?

There has been no date set yet other than when a market has 85% of ifs viewers can receive a digital signal. It also hasn't been decided exactly what a "viewable" digital signal is. Does it mean one digital OTA receiver? All OTA receivers? Does cable and satellite count toward the 85%? All questions the FCC haven't addressed yet.

Some in Congress want the Dec 31, 2006 date to stick, others are looking at Jan 1, 2009 and others are looking at dates further out.

Bottom line, no one ones when the analogs will shut down. At this point, it looks like the public is the driving factor now.

Is anyone else having interference problems with their new 8300HD box? I am getting no interference with my dvd player, but with the cable box, I get lines and bands of color scrolling up the screen.

The comcast hd box freezing problem is a software glitch that is going to be fixed within 3 weeks, or so i'm told. They'll update all the boxes automatically from the head end.

I have read in this forum that some of the TWC stores have the 8300HD boxes. Does anyone know if the Barry Road store has any? I have tried to get an answer from TWC, but they won't tell me anything.

Thanks

You have to just go to the TWC store, and ask for one ... the central office will not call, and has no way of knowing. Just take your chances and show up asking for the 8300HD box. TWC is not taking reserves on the limited boxes. They are all earmarked for walkins only.

Sorry if these problems have already been discussed. I have two possible glitches that I am curious about on the Comcast DVR box.

1) I have my Comcast remote setup to be locked for volume to control my reciever instead of the tv(per the instructions). If I ever come downstairs and the cable box is on due to scheduled recording or something...and I hit "All On", everything turns on, but it also mutes the cable box. The only way that I have found to unmute it(since the remote is locked to the reciever) is to program the remote to unlock the volume controls, unmute it and then reprogram it to be locked.

2) If I am watching a show while a previously scheduled program is being recorded and the scheduled recording ends, the cable box shuts itself off. Is there anyway to prevent this?

Originally posted by KCMO
Well, thanks for the replies concerning 740 vs 1080, but I still never know what programing is in what format. Do I have to change any setting or is this all done by the TV? I did notice that FOX does not seem quite as sharp as ABC in HD though.

Also, any other suburban east comcast people having problems with thier box? Mine keeps freezing up randomly when I attempt to do something with the remote like change the channel or access the guide. The box will freeze up and then will perform all the buttons I pushed at once after a long delay. It's annoying and Comcast says they can't fix it becasue it's a sofware problem or something but they are working on it.

Yes, I've got the same problem. It's been the main reason I haven't yet dropped my direcTV/Tivo service.
I also had an issue on 6-WDAF (not digital) where it'd occasionally freeze until I changed the channel and changed it back. I haven't seen this issue on the D-WDAF (213/234) side yet.
Jerky, thanks for the update - looking forward to a [hopefully] smoother menu-browsing experience.

udeyhawk,
The box auto-shuting off was about to drive me crazy, so I have just started leaving my box on all the time. I'm sure I'm using more electricity, but atleast I have my sanity back :)

Originally posted by Eyedox
You have to just go to the TWC store, and ask for one ... the central office will not call, and has no way of knowing. Just take your chances and show up asking for the 8300HD box. TWC is not taking reserves on the limited boxes. They are all earmarked for walkins only.

Eyedox--depends upon who you get. A few weeks ago I called in to the main number, the lady said she'd check and they'd call me back. Sure enough, in about an hour i got a call from the OP office saying they had gotten an email requesting them to call me about the 8300.

Good service!

Originally posted by hdtimmy
Gilmore Girls, Tuesday Night:
Sound was slightly behind the picture for the entire episode.
Approx. 7 minutes into the episode the sound "stuck" like a skipping CD. This lasted for a couple of seconds.
Approx. 30 and 41 minutes into the episode the sound went silent for a few seconds.

I have been hearing the same quirks in other shows such as Everwood and Jack&Bobby.

Otherwise, keep up the good work, there aren't too many cities that have a WB station that broadcasts in HD and is easy to receive (esp. when compared to FOX4).

I'll check the logs and make some changes to the mux tomorrow. Let me know if you continue to hear problems.

Originally posted by Eyedox
Hmmm ... I tried an amplified indoor antenna from Target (RCA top-of-the-line $45), and it picked up most of the locals but not KSMO and of course WDAF. Maybe my Mits HDTV cannot read your PSIP info. My brother in law has the same Mits HD set in Olathe and a huge amplified rooftop antenna, and he also can receive all signals except KSMO and WDAF. I don't know what else to try, but I am having no luck enjoying WB in HD. :( Also, will KSMO-DT be boosting their weak (9 kw) signal to full strength by the required July 1st, 2005 FCC deadline like WDAF? Do you think it will take years to add WB-HD to Time Warner Cable, or are we only a few months away from a carriage agreement?

Don't have any info on cable carriage timeline, but my gut feeling is it will be months not years. We are not required to be at full power by July 1st.
(ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC in markets 1-100) again hopefully months not years. As far as the Mits HD sets, I have a 48" Mits with integrated tuner.
Decent picture, the tuner leaves a lot to be desired but it does see 62-1.

To: turn_it_up

I watched Smallville this evening 02-09-2005 and experienced the audio 'drop out' several times. The audio and picture are in perfect sync. I am watching, and all of a sudden there is no sound. The picture is perfect. Because I was watching the show and did not want to miss anything, I simply either switch channels or faster still, just re-punch in 47. The audio comes right back on.

I logged the times that the audio dropped out.

@ 13 minutes
@ 27 minutes
@ 41 minutes
@ 55 minutes

At the 55 minute mark, I left the audio off because the show was over and the beginning of the commercials was starting. The audio came back on its' own after about 1 minute. I could not watch 'Jack & Bobby' because I had some house repair work to do. It looks to me like something is cycling at 13 or 14 minute intervals.

I use only stereo analog PCM output. I do not have a 5.1 audio system to hook up to the digital audio outputs, so I don't use the digital audio.
I have a Samsung SIRT-151 OTA receiver. Use a Radio Shack UHF antenna with dedicated RG-6 cable + a very good 300ohm to 75ohm balun. No RF amp. I receive your signal at 50% of my signal strength scale and it is rock steady. I worry about overloading the front end when you go full power.

udeyhawk-

The easiest work-around is to reprogram a button on the comcast remote to be mute for the DVR box. You'll have to sacrifice a button (the 'help' button is a good choice) but it works like a champ.

Use this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/printpost.php?postid=4654286) as your guide, but instead of using '00236' use '00141' to reprogram for mute.

As for the box shutting off when it's done with a recording, that only happens if the box turned itself on to record it. Unfortunately there isn't a way to override it, so if it shuts itself off, you just have to hit the gray 'power' button at the top of the remote and it'll turn the box back on.

Hope this helps.

since "we" were on page 4 i figured we should be moved to the top :)

Does anyone else have problems with a E* 811 and OTA, my sound will st-udder on occasion, if i change the channel then come right back it will be fine. Sometimes it does this 3 or 4 times an hour. Is this a 811 issue, multipath, or a local thing?

mws,

I've got the same setup and haven't had any consistent audio hiccups.

Probably has to do with my signal strength then ... I do not notice it on CBS (the strongest signal) Hopfully this will all change soon with more power from the stations, and me moving out of my apt. :)

I posted this on the antenna topic, but thought I would copy it here...
This is VERY frustrating...

I have a Radio Shack Combo UHF/VHF antenna that works JUST FINE when I have it on a mast in a tripod about 15 feet off the ground in my driveway...

Now, yesterday I mounted it on the chimney of our house, and got absolutely NOTHING...Basically, I gained 25 feet in altitude, got above the tree line, and have a clear shot...but it doesn't work at all, and there was absolutely NO changes to the setup I was running. Can someone explain this one to me?

Would the galvanized Chimney cap cause that much trouble? It's about 2 feet above this cap.

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
I posted this on the antenna topic, but thought I would copy it here...
This is VERY frustrating...

I have a Radio Shack Combo UHF/VHF antenna that works JUST FINE when I have it on a mast in a tripod about 15 feet off the ground in my driveway...

Now, yesterday I mounted it on the chimney of our house, and got absolutely NOTHING...Basically, I gained 25 feet in altitude, got above the tree line, and have a clear shot...but it doesn't work at all, and there was absolutely NO changes to the setup I was running. Can someone explain this one to me?

Would the galvanized Chimney cap cause that much trouble? It's about 2 feet above this cap.

Probably something very simple to fix. Do you have any good analog signals? Is the coax cable going to the correct input on the STB? Have you done a new channel scan? Simple steps but these items have gotten me a time or two. :)

I just took it back down and set it up in the driveway with the exact same setup and it worked perfectly in the driveway again...

Same connections...same run of cable, same everything, except in the driveway, there are trees in the way and I'm 20 feet lower...

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION
I just took it back down and set it up in the driveway with the exact same setup and it worked perfectly in the driveway again...

Same connections...same run of cable, same everything, except in the driveway, there are trees in the way and I'm 20 feet lower...

Can you leave the tv on and move the antenna and cable to the roof to see if the signal is lost at a certain height?

Ok, now I just stuck the mast into the ground between our house and the one next to us...getting all but Channel 62....this is just WEIRD..

Side note...is anyone else getting a LOT of static "noise" on KCTV 5, the UNC vs. UCONN game OTA?


Picture is great, but there is a some static on the audio.



I'm gonna try some spots on the roof again now that the rain has died a bit...

Wildcat

You might have a grounding problem. Try running a ground wire from the mast to a good ground point. Coax also needs to go through a ground block with the ground block wire going to the same ground point as the mast.

Glenn

My antenna is now "unofficially" installed near my dish with the mast just stuffed into the ground about a foot (good thing we got a lot of rain). Everything working fine with the digitals of 5,9,29,38,41 and PAX...nothing on PBS or 62, but both are close. Seemed to lose power on KCTV last night, but it's working great again this morning.

I tried to look up that "power" spreadsheet, but couldn't get it to load through my favorites.

Ahhh ... the joys of new technology and early adoption. :)

Originally posted by Eyedox
Ahhh ... the joys of new technology and early adoption. :)

Yes we are all explorers in this brave new digital world of HDTV. Many people read our local Kansas City HDTV forum and learn from our paths to success. Yes we all could have stayed in the fuzzy analog world of television for awhile longer. Most of the broadcasting and reception problems of analog television were solved by our forefathers.

Once a person sees and hears 1080i and 720p HDTV along with Dolby Digital 5.1 audio-analog 480i television just looks outdated. Kansas City is blessed to have so many broadcasters, viewers and cable providers working hard to usher in a new golden age of full-power and full-bandwidth HDTV. :)

DogOfMadness............. It's that time of the year that us digital viewers would like to know KCTV5 plan for the NCAA March Madness.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=509515

So glad to have your input this time of the year. :) So will us digital viewers get to see all these CBS HDTV NCAA games?

I can't wait to see what happens with this...this is the biggest reason I wanted to get my antenna up and running right now rather than wait...for March Madness...

Now, if KCTV would just go full power...I'd have no worries...very intermittent signal for this user.

Is there any way to carry all the games OTA, or is that against the rules?

I've not heard the plans thru the grapevine yet. I'll pass along when I hear anything.

Is it even possible for KCTV to carry all the feeds on the digital channel? Like 5-1, 5-2, 5-3, etc...

There are no plans to multicast at this time (at least, that I've been told). We have equipment in place to have one HD and one SD stream but the SD encoder is "sleeping".

Anyway, I would suspect that CBS and/or NCAA might have rules against it. It would be interesting, though!

Thanks for the information.

Can you give insight as to why at certain times I will get a great lock on the signal for KCTV-DT, and other times, it's dead...without changing anything? This will change in the matter of a few hours.

Originally posted by DogOfMadness
There are no plans to multicast at this time (at least, that I've been told).


This is such good news. The quality of KCTV5 DT-24 1080i full-bandwidth CBS HDTV picture is wonderful. :)

WILDCAT: Unfortunately, reliable reception of digitally modulated signals has proven to be somewhat difficult compated to analog (as the many postings here would indicate!!). There are many issues involved, too many to go into here, but besides the obvious issue of low received signal level the biggest issue, I feel, is multipath. Certainly multipath is a big problem in the "urban canyons" of tall buildings, but comparatively minor multipath such as here in the Great Plains can wipe out digital reception, too.

If you've ever twisted a UHF loop antenna at the back of a TV while watching an analog signal you may have noticed quite a lot of change in picture quality, especially with ghosting (multipath). While a viewer may be able to put up with a minor amount of ghosting while watching an analog channel, a digital signal has to be comparatively "perfect", with low multipath, to allow decoding. At UHF frequencies a small positional change of the antenna--sometimes just a few inches--can make or break the successful decoding of a digital signal.

Broadcasters and receiver manufacturers are well aware of this problem. Decoder chip and receiver manufacturers are continuing to make improvements with every new generation of products with regard to multipath. I understand the "5th generation" decoder chips recently being produced are reported to have greatly improved reception characteristics. I have not been able to get my hands on a 5th gen set-top box yet but the reports are very positive.

Like I said there could well be other issues involved to prevent reliable reception for you and others but multipath (even minor) can be a notable one.

Dog of Madness... regarding the NCAA's. When I lived in Indianapolis WISHTV used their new digital channel to do a 4 (!) sub channel multicast of the NCAA's (this was in around 2000 or 2001). Of course I think just about everything was standard def back then. I loved the fact that last year I could often watch the hi-definition feed on TWC 1451 and then also the kctv analog feed which were often two seperate games. I was a very popular person in my neighborhood during the tournament!

Shawn

Originally posted by WILDCAT NATION


Now, yesterday I mounted it on the chimney of our house, and got absolutely NOTHING...Basically, I gained 25 feet in altitude, got above the tree line, and have a clear shot...but it doesn't work at all, and there was absolutely NO changes to the setup I was running. Can someone explain this one to me?



Sure.If there were absolutely no changes,which means you used the 7db "cable amp",as stated in another post,it's simple.By raising the antenna,all the combined signals,analog and digital,are now much stronger and collectively exceeding the input threshold of that amp,hence no reception of anything.

In response to another question you had in another post about losing a signal over a short time period,it's probably normal "weak signal drift".When you get the antenna up in the air higher that should go away.If you need any amplification,use a low gain/high input preamp.

Greg B

Question for area Comcast HD/6412 users:

I'm having a lot of hiccups on more or less all my HD programming, but especially on HBO-HD and WDAF. Audio drops out, picture momentarily pixellates. Happens about every 3 or 4 minutes, both when watching live and when time-shifting.

Is this par for the course, or should I have it checked out?

You might want to check your connections and what not. Otherwise a service call may be in order.

Originally posted by Jerky
You might want to check your connections and what not. Otherwise a service call may be in order.

Thx for the reply.

What are the general recommendations on line splitting? I've got a setup that has my TV feed split to also provide signal to my cable modem before it hits the 6412. Do I need to add an amp to the line?

BTW, analog channels are OK (other than looking like crap in general, but that's not unusual, especially after getting used to HD).

Thanks again for the help. It's much appreciated.

Posting ???? for a friend...

using a Time Warner HD STB (non DVR) he cannot get the DVI port to communicate with a LG 52SZ51D.

NE1 have a similar issue? is there a setting on the STB that he is missing?

Originally posted by mws6468
Posting ???? for a friend...

using a Time Warner HD STB (non DVR) he cannot get the DVI port to communicate with a LG 52SZ51D.

NE1 have a similar issue? is there a setting on the STB that he is missing?

Sure, it's for a friend... (wink)

IIRC, the DVI was disabled on one of the models of HD STB (Scientific Atlanta 3250HD??). But it might have been enabled on the other manufacturer, which was a better overall STB anyway (I don't remember who this was). Since I went to the HD-DVR (and am using component anyway), I've purged most of that info from memory. But this does sound familiar.

Originally posted by jsuhr
Thx for the reply.

What are the general recommendations on line splitting? I've got a setup that has my TV feed split to also provide signal to my cable modem before it hits the 6412. Do I need to add an amp to the line?



I won't bore you with the science but with today's cable feeds you can usually do a 3-way split without too much difficulty. Unless absolutely necessary avoid an amplifier like the plague. The reason is threefold. First, best engineering practices dictate that an amplifier should be placed at the source side of the wire, not the destination side. When placed at the destination side, you not only amplify the desirable signals but also the undesirable ones such as noise, etc. Secondly, an amplifier can fail altogether or worse yet, have a failure where it continues to work but generates a ton of noise. Third, you can send too much signal into the back of your receiver. As someone mentioned in a thread above, you can overdrive your receiver to the point where it won't work either. Finally, if you do a splitter and have any open "ports" be sure to terminate them with a type "F" terminator. You can get these at any "R Shack", this will keep undesirable off-air signals from ingression into your home cable...TI

Originally posted by technicalitalian
I won't bore you with the science but with today's cable feeds you can usually do a 3-way split without too much difficulty. Unless absolutely necessary avoid an amplifier like the plague. The reason is threefold. First, best engineering practices dictate that an amplifier should be placed at the source side of the wire, not the destination side. When placed at the destination side, you not only amplify the desirable signals but also the undesirable ones such as noise, etc. Secondly, an amplifier can fail altogether or worse yet, have a failure where it continues to work but generates a ton of noise. Third, you can send too much signal into the back of your receiver. As someone mentioned in a thread above, you can overdrive your receiver to the point where it won't work either. Finally, if you do a splitter and have any open "ports" be sure to terminate them with a type "F" terminator. You can get these at any "R Shack", this will keep undesirable off-air signals from ingression into your home cable...TI

Great info.
I suppose I can check the strength of my current signal through the maintenance menu on the 6412... maybe I'll give that a shot.
Seems like SD programming is fine, but HD on all channels is giving me some kind of fits. Firmware is still 9.12 so it could be related to that.

Thanks again for the help.

I picked up the 8300. Seems faster, still have aspect ratio wonkyness.
I posted behavior and software version numbers in the general 8300 Passport thread: Post # 737 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5207591#post5207591)

For the last couple nights with the old 8000HD, HD has been stuttering and losing sections. I erased some recordings which seemed to help a bit.

Last night, Third Watch and Medical Investigation seemed to come in SD over the HD channel a lot. A couple of times for ~10 minutes.

v/r,
C-F

I'm having some real trouble picking up KCTV-DT with any consistency...can't wait for full power...

Can the opening message in this thread be updated, or can someone provide a new synopsis of the digital offerings in the KC area? I am currently receiving HD through TWC and thinking of dropping back to basic cable supplemented by OTA, and just wondering what I would be able to get. (Time frame would be this summer for this change so hopefully FOX would be full power by then.)

I have a friend in Minneapolis doing OTA and he gets 4 SD PBS on one digital plus another HD PBS on another, plus HDNET. Anything other than the digital versions of the analog broadcasts in this area?

Is there anything besides the FOX that would be a problem around 75th & State Line?

Originally posted by newski
Can the opening message in this thread be updated, or can someone provide a new synopsis of the digital offerings in the KC area? I am currently receiving HD through TWC and thinking of dropping back to basic cable supplemented by OTA, and just wondering what I would be able to get. (Time frame would be this summer for this change so hopefully FOX would be full power by then.)

I have a friend in Minneapolis doing OTA and he gets 4 SD PBS on one digital plus another HD PBS on another, plus HDNET. Anything other than the digital versions of the analog broadcasts in this area?

Is there anything besides the FOX that would be a problem around 75th & State Line?

Welcome to free Over the Air HDTV reception. :) You are blessed to be in one of the best Over the Air digital broadcasting city in these great United States. Kansas City has ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, UPN, WB and FOX Over the Air HDTV. Best of all it's free to all viewers in the Kansas City metro viewing area. With a good outdoor/attic antenna you should receive all the digital Kansas City broadcasters.

Kansas City is getting noticed in the world of digital television broadcasting.

turn it up,

During Gilmore Girls tonight, the sound was behind the video and the sound was having small hiccups about once a second.

This continued for the entire episode. Does the master control operator monitor the HD signal? I found out that trying to contact someone at the station after business hours is impossible. Very frustrating.

So sorry to say, but "it ain't fixed yet."

Originally posted by hdtimmy
During Gilmore Girls tonight, the sound was behind the video and the sound was having small hiccups about once a second.
This continued for the entire episode. Does the master control operator monitor the HD signal? I found out that trying to contact someone at the station after business hours is impossible. Very frustrating.
So sorry to say, but "it ain't fixed yet." <Sigh!> At least you can receive KSMO in HD. My TV cannot pull in the station OTA and KSMO/TWC still have not signed an agreement for retrans on cable. I am stuck with reruns of Smallville in HD on HDNet for now I guess.

Originally posted by hdtimmy
turn it up,

During Gilmore Girls tonight, the sound was behind the video and the sound was having small hiccups about once a second.

This continued for the entire episode. Does the master control operator monitor the HD signal? I found out that trying to contact someone at the station after business hours is impossible. Very frustrating.

So sorry to say, but "it ain't fixed yet."

hdtimmy have you read this post? http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=510897&highlight=WB

Originally posted by hdtimmy
turn it up,

During Gilmore Girls tonight, the sound was behind the video and the sound was having small hiccups about once a second.

This continued for the entire episode. Does the master control operator monitor the HD signal? I found out that trying to contact someone at the station after business hours is impossible. Very frustrating.

So sorry to say, but "it ain't fixed yet."

I put the DD5.1 audio back on line yesterday with external meta data from WB controlling the audio characteristics. In light of last night's problem we are back to 2 channel audio until I come up with a resolution. I am in contact with WB and our encoder manufacturer to help solve the problem. I will post here when we are ready to put the 5.1 audio back on line.

Turn_it_up,

I watched Smallville tonight 2-23 and the audio was perfect. It stayed on the whole time.

turn_it_up,

Thanks for your response and your hard work. We are blessed to have you here.

Hello,
Can anyone tell me where I can find instructions and remote control codes to the remote that comes with the 8000HD?

Thanks!

To all of you who have picked up the 8300HD:

How is it working for you? I had been putting off swapping out my 8000 because it finally starting working pretty well. However, recently it has started cutting off the last 5-10 mins of shows. That's really annoying considering the shows I watch most are the CSIs, Without a Trace, and Lost. Have you guys had any problems with this or rebooting? Any other bugs, or wishes you have for it?

I am debating going and getting one this weekend and would appreciate any input you all have on it. Thanks.

kcjefff:

I am absolutely thrilled with the changeout to the 8300HD from the 8000HD. I have had the unit for a few weeks and have not had a single audio dropout, freeze-up, reboot, etc.

Go for it.

Mike

Theo,

Here's a link to user manual for your remote.

http://www.urcsupport.com/PDF/Atlas_pvr.pdf

Ryan

Ryan,
Exactly what I am looking for! Appreciate it!

Theo

kcjefff -
I also like the 8300 better than the 8000. The cutting off of the end of some shows is not due to the box, its due to the fact that some shows like ER, ALIAS, and LOST are extending their shows before or after the hour slightly to sell more advertising space in a higher cost time block.

Originally posted by kcjefff
To all of you who have picked up the 8300HD:

How is it working for you? I had been putting off swapping out my 8000 because it finally starting working pretty well. However, recently it has started cutting off the last 5-10 mins of shows. That's really annoying considering the shows I watch most are the CSIs, Without a Trace, and Lost. Have you guys had any problems with this or rebooting? Any other bugs, or wishes you have for it?

I am debating going and getting one this weekend and would appreciate any input you all have on it. Thanks.

In general I like the 8300 much better than the 8000. The software improvements are noticable and now you can archive content. It seems less buggy although I am having issues the last few days with reboots and programs not recording. I think this is a cable line issue and not a hardware/software issue though.

My problem with it not recording isn't due to the networks running over. For instance, when a show is scheduled to end at 9:00, it will suddenly stop recording at 8:51 (That has been the most common time to stop) Even when there is nothing scheduled to record after that show is over. I will have to get one of those new boxes to see what happens.

Is anyone else with OTA having PSIP problems with KCTV5?

My receiver is mapping it to 24-3 tonight instead of 5-1. Weird.

Normally, I wouldn't care too much, but I had my HD-DVR set to record Joan of Arcadia on 5-1. It didn't record it because there is no 5-1 tonight, just 24-3. :(

I am having a bad week with the KC HDTV stations.

I'm having a problem with KCTV5. My receiver is showing a good signal strength, but simultaneously says "No Signal" and shows no picture. I rescanned for digital channels which resulted in no change.

I've had no problems with this TV/Receiver before (Sony KDF-70XBR950). I got home and was intending to watch "JAG". Just rechecked things, and still getting "No Signal" for KCTV5.

Ok, very weird. I manually selected channel 24.1 (based on HDTimmy's post) and guess what.... There is my missing KCTV5DT broadcast. However there is no channel information on the banner at all. Something seems to be pretty messed up.

Originally posted by kcjefff
My problem with it not recording isn't due to the networks running over. For instance, when a show is scheduled to end at 9:00, it will suddenly stop recording at 8:51 (That has been the most common time to stop) Even when there is nothing scheduled to record after that show is over. I will have to get one of those new boxes to see what happens. Interesting ... I don't have that problem, either your hard drive is full (even if it says there is space ... i.e. not deleting programs properly), or you just have a bad box. I would take it in and exchange it for another.

KCTV5 seems to be all fixed today. 5.1 is back on 5.1.

It would appear that 5.1 is missing again today. I have a samsung 360 and it is blank. I had the same problem that was mentioned on Friday but it was back yesterday, now it is gone again.

I'm having the same problem with KCTV 5-1. My off-air antenna has the signal (between 93-100%), but the screen is black. This is different than when I switch to WDAF 4-1 and I get the "searching for signal" message.

This would mean that I have the signal, but its as if they are transmitting a "blank" feed or something.

I just checked KCTV5 DT-24 showing channel map to 5-1 on my old Dish Network Model 6000 8VSB Over the Air Digital turner. Picture is there and signal strength is very strong. Maybe the PSIP generator is having a problem on KCTV5 DT-24 (5-1). Hopefully DogOfMadness will be along soon to help you return to KCTV5 CBS 1080i programming.

I lost 5.1 KCTV on Saturday as far as I know with my Sony HD200 receiver, but what was strange is that I could still see it with my HTPC and MD120 High Def card, very strange. I am going to go down and take a look now to see if it is back. All other local HD channels came in just fine.

8300HD:

I have had the 8300HD box for about a month and it seems to work pretty good. I have had some problems with I am using the Picture and Picture feature and it locks up. The images on both the main screen and the PIP screen are still active but the remote and the buttons on the box don't respond. I have to unplug the power cable from the back and plug back in to reboot. Kind of a pain but a quick fix.

I was wanting to know if anyone knows if the TWC Barry Road store has the 8300HD boxes in stock. I can't get an answer from TWC and it is a considerable drive just to check.
Thanks

I hope they don't! I've been on the TWKC "wait list" for a while now!

A couple of weeks ago, I picked up two of the 8300HD's from there. They had 15 or 20 on hand for "walk-in's".

I have a 57" Toshiba HD widescreen for sale....2 years old. Won't fit in my new basement (stupid narrow stairs!) $800.

I was just at the Barry office on Monday and they don't have any. I had them add my name to the wait list. They said they are waiting on a shipment from the manufacturer.

Ron in KC
New Member

Registered: Mar 2003
Location: Kansas City
Posts: 13


I was wanting to know if anyone knows if the TWC Barry Road store has the 8300HD boxes in stock. I can't get an answer from TWC and it is a considerable drive just to check.
Thanks
___________________________________________________

I called TWCKC the week before the super bowl and they told me they were getting more HD boxes in in a couple of days and they could put me on a waiting list. I decided a couple days later to go to the TWC store in OP and see if they had some and sure enough they had plenty. I don't know if they just go them in or who ever I talked to on the phone was just sick of taking calls regarding HD boxes. I would try just going to one of the TWC stores and see if they have any. I have noticed that sometimes the people you talk to on the phone really don't know what is going on unless you talk to a supervisor.

Just my 2 cents!!!

Any Comcast users out there having trouble with either KCPTD or DKCPT? I haven't been able to tune in either for at least a month. I've got a service call scheduled for tonight but was curious if this is an area-wide problem.

Does anyone know the plans for HD-OnDemand from TWC? The channel has been taunting me in the guide for some time now, but there is still no content.

Originally posted by kcsooner
Does anyone know the plans for HD-OnDemand from TWC? The channel has been taunting me in the guide for some time now, but there is still no content.

I asked this:
Any insight into what the HD On Demand channel will hold? Will it all be ppv

of Michael Davolt on 1-27-05 and got the following back:

Some day. Right now it takes up too much bandwidth. We are tracking the issue and watching it closely.

i actually just had that problem with those channels (220,221) on Comcast. I replaced the cable running to the box and that took care of it all... but my line isn't installed like a normal outlet so it was relatively easy. I'm thinking that it has something to do with the center conductor in the cable line maybe being broken somewhere.

Originally posted by Jerky
i actually just had that problem with those channels (220,221) on Comcast. I replaced the cable running to the box and that took care of it all... but my line isn't installed like a normal outlet so it was relatively easy. I'm thinking that it has something to do with the center conductor in the cable line maybe being broken somewhere.

They came out last night, replaced a splitter, re-terminated some cables, and were thereby able to boost the ingress signal by about 7db. Lo and behold, both 220 and 221 now work flawlessly, and it also seems to have fixed a lot of other problems I was having with HD content on the major networks.
I guess when shoving an HD bowling ball through a coax drinking straw every little possible point of failure is magnified.
Makes me wonder how many of the purported "bugs" on the 6412 are actually related to some kind of connection issue at the user's end. I didn't even try calling Comcast to fix my HD pixellation/dropout issues because I assumed they were related to 9.12 FW (which I'm still on, BTW).

Don't rely on TWC to follow through with their "wait list".

I was supposedly on the list when the new shipment came in a couple weeks ago and they never called me even though they had them in their stores.

I just kept calling every couple of days until they arrived.

Yes, I stoped by the 119th street office and was able to pick one up first try. They had a whole cabinet full of them! I just got a new Panny 34" tube and am very impressed with both the set and the 8300!

Originally posted by kcsooner
Does anyone know the plans for HD-OnDemand from TWC? The channel has been taunting me in the guide for some time now, but there is still no content.

I noticed today that they have one movie on it.

Anybody in KC have any E* rumors?

Originally posted by jwprimetime
Anybody in KC have any E* rumors?

What kind of "rumors" are you wanting to hear?

Substantiated, regarding HD.

Originally posted by jwprimetime
Anybody in KC have any E* rumors?

A good site for E* HDTV information. http://www.satelliteguys.us/forumdisplay.php?f=118

Anyone notice tonight that Time Warner Cable in KC added Channel 1 on Channel 01. All they are showing is an AD about their cable, phone, and Internet. I wonder if this is a test channel.

Yeah, I saw that last night. I didn't stay long and the only thing they were advertising was their digital phone service.

they also set my stb's to power on to that channel instead of the last channel, like I set it.

Has anyone heard updates to WDAF going full power? are we still looking at July?

Originally posted by mws6468
Has anyone heard updates to WDAF going full power? are we still looking at July?

With only about 3 1/2 months till the July deadline I also was hoping to hear something on WDAF plan to provide the Kansas City television viewers a full-power Over the Air FOX 720p HDTV signal. It would be real nice if the lady engineer of the WDAF television station could answer some questions here at this local HDTV forum. Alot of us HDTV viewers are looking forward to seeing FOX HDTV programming.:)

Originally posted by jeffdbs
A good site for E* HDTV information.
I'm new to the HDTV scene, what is E* HDTV?

E* is Echostar, which is DISH Network.

Originally posted by jwprimetime
E* is Echostar, which is DISH Network.
Ahhh, thanks.

I'm picking up my Panasonic DLP tonight and TW is hooking up the HDTV tomorrow. Any tips or hints since I know nothing about HDTV?

Same Dartgod from CP.com?

Originally posted by Craash
Same Dartgod from CP.com?
The one and only. :D

So, who are you from there?

EDIT: Nevermind. I see we have a Craash over there too. I remember your story about the motorcycle crash a while back.

Welcome. Lots of good info here.

Are you getting the DRV HD Box, or just the normal HD box?

Originally posted by Craash
Welcome. Lots of good info here.

Are you getting the DRV HD Box, or just the normal HD box?
No, just the normal box. I had them put me on a waiting list for the DVR, but after reading a few pages of this forum, it looks like I can just go to a local store and have a chance to pick one up. I've got a store in Grandview close by, so I think I'll stop in tomorrow before the installer comes out and see if they have one.

Will you be using the TV speakers, or will you run it through your tuner, or both?

Originally posted by Craash
Will you be using the TV speakers, or will you run it through your tuner, or both?
I'll probably use both.

Ok, depending on which box you get, you'll most likely want to make the following connections - TWC will usually not do this.

1. Cableco Box to TV - DVI, or Component to DVI or Component in on the TV
This will allow for HDTV viewing in it's full glory. If you set your cable box to pass throught every format your tv will support (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i) be prepared for a bit of a pause when changing between two channels that use different formats while the TV adjusts to the new format.
If the cable guy hooks the box up and you get no picture over DVI/Component, the box is most likely set to convert everything to a format your tv doesn't support resulting in a blank screen. To resolve this, hook up #2 below and you can then access the menu, making the necessary additions to the format output.

2. Cableco Box to TV via RCA.
The lower channels on TWC are compressed analog. When you send this over component, dvi, or even S-Video the tv is able to render the picture just as it is = lots of junk and compression artifacts. By viewing lower channels (<78) over RCA, you get a 'better' picture. Sounds crazy, but try it.

Cableco box to TV - RCA Audio

Cableco box to Tuner - Digital Audio.