No, the List button pulls up the list of recorded shows. I'm trying to get into the settings menu for the DVR. For example, how would I find out what version software it has?There is a button on the left edge of the up/down/left/right buttons at the top end of the remote that brings up the DVR menu. I think it's marked as "settings". If you press it once it goes into "quick settings" and then if you press it again it goes to the full "DVR settings". However, it does not show you the software version or other nitty-gritty details; for that you will need to go to the diagnostics pages.

Sorry about that....I did misunderstand the question. I think the menu you are looking for can be found by doing the following:

On the box itself...hold the select button until the mail logo appears and then press the info button. That should bring up the diagnostic pages. You can press vol +/- on the box to change pages. Now I have the 8300HD and the pages are slightly different than the 8300HDC. You'll have to scroll through to find the info that you want. You can press 'Exit' to get out. I hope that helps this time....
That worked, though it wasn't exactly what I was looking for. Is there a way to have the component output on the 8300HDC set to 480i?

My in laws older TV has component inputs, but it only accepts a 480i signal (which I just confirmed this morning by using one of my boxed up old Directv Tivos where I can set the component output resolution). I think their PQ would be dramatically better via component compared to the coax they have the DVR hooked up with now. I tried looking in the Settings and couldn't find it there either. Thanks.

EDIT: I just found out how to do it on page 8 of this PDF: http://www.scientificatlanta.com/products/consumers/userguidepdfs/4003114.pdf
My in laws probably have this manual somewhere around here but who knows where.

Indiana627, how's your OTA reception?

Indiana627, how's your OTA reception?
Don't know yet - we don't close on the house until mid August. Probably won't be moved in until late August. Still living with my in laws in Chenango for now. I'm really anxious to find out how both OTA and D* reception will be at our new house. According to the dish pointer tool (http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/customer/dishPointer.jsp)on D* site, the azimuth of the dish is 228.6°. I went to the house yesterday with a compass and I should be OK, but a neighbors pine tree could pose an issue. I think I should be fine elevation wise.

I was wondering though, will D* send someone out to my new house to do a site evaluation and make sure I can get signal before the actual installer shows up? Or does anyone in this forum have a handheld D* signal meter?

OK, this might sound strange but does anyone know whether Binghamton falls within the NYC spotbeam for HD channels?

Are you referring to D*? If so, the NYC HD local channels from D* are CONUS and not spotbeams as D* uses them for DNS service (same for the LA HD locals). I'll be getting NBC HD from NYC once my D* install is done at the end of the month.

Sorry, yes I was referring to D*. I currently have NBC and FOX via HD DNS and CW as a SD from Washington D.C., but wanted to know if I "moved" would I be within the NY Spotbeam for their locals.

My biggest reason being I want the CW in HD and can't currently get it.

I see. Well since the NYC HD locals are CONUS instead of spotbeam, then the entire country should be able to receive the signals, provided the right address is used.

The NYC big four channels (NBC, CBS, ABC & Fox) are CONUS, he and I want to know if the spot beam is large enough so that we can get The CW and other NYC locals. I doubt that NYC The CW is CONUS.

jdspencer's got it. NYC's CWHD is only through spotbeam, it's not on CONUS. I've got a lot of relatives in Queens and Nassau county that have said I can use their address if I wanted.

It would be interesting to see if the spot reaches Binghamton. However, I don't want to try it for fear of losing my existing SD and HD DNS channels.

The downside of moving is that if you qualify for any discounted equipment offers, you'd have to change back to your actual physical address for shipping, then move again. Sends up a red flag. I'd love to have the option for all locals out of NYC, but I don't want to mess up and lose the ones I'm actually qualified to receive.

I don't mind it because the address I'd be using is an uncle's who comes up to Binghamton almost every weekend to visit his daughter.

The NYC big four channels (NBC, CBS, ABC & Fox) are CONUS, he and I want to know if the spot beam is large enough so that we can get The CW and other NYC locals. I doubt that NYC The CW is CONUS.
Got it. Sorry for my mis-information.

I just moved to Vestal from Binghamton this month. First I get the news that DirecTV can not get a clear LOS from my house because of some trees of my neighbors. I can't get any tv reception either, I'm over by the Vestal High School, are those hills I can see in the way of the towers? I do get SD channel 12, but that's it and that's really piss poor as well. I've been able to hook up my road runner connection to the tv and I get the basic channels of ABC, FOX, NBC but no CBS... does TWC still not have an agreement with channel 12?

The only thing I care about is getting my football... after being spoiled by Sunday Ticket in HD last year I at least want to get channel 12 in HD. :\

TWC doesn't carry WBNG in HD currently.

The only thing I care about is getting my football... after being spoiled by Sunday Ticket in HD last year I at least want to get channel 12 in HD. :\

You have my sympathies. TWC is a bag of suck that I dropped 8 and 1/2 years ago and I'm not looking back. I made sure prior to my move that DIRECTV would still be an option when I saw a dish on the side of the house. I wasn't taking any chances.

OK, this might sound strange but does anyone know whether Binghamton falls within the NYC spotbeam for HD channels?

I have Dish and get about 15 New York City Locals and live in Endicott, I would switch to Direct if I knew that I could get the NYC spot beam.

Did you tell DISH that you lived in the NYC area?

Still though, DISH and DirecTV use different satellites, although I wonder if the spot beams are the same.

Did you tell DISH that you lived in the NYC area?


I work in the City and bring it back when I come home.

I have been reading the latest thread and am wondering how I can get NYC locals as some of you have mentioned??? Is there a way, I live in Endicott, to get the spot beam or CONUS that you describe so I can get NYC locals??? Currently I get NBC but I had to get a waiver, I was not able to obtain waivers for any other channel and DTV tells me there is nothing in the near future in terms of these channels coming to us in this area in HD or SD which is terrible!!!

So I made the "move" to Long Island today, was as easy as sending D* an email with the new address. Within the hour they had responded and I now get all NYC locals, and ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, MYTV and the CW are all in HD. I also get all the other NYC locals. The transponders are in the high 90's as well, it's on satellite 99 transponders 1 and 3, both for me are reading 96+.

So the NYC spot beam reaches Binghamton. What channel numbers are you using for ABC, CBS, NBC, and Fox? I suspect that those channels are really CONUS.

2 is CBS
4 is NBC
5 is FOX
7 is ABC
9 is WWOR (MyNetwork)
11 is WPIX (CW)

All are in HD. I then get the Spanish channels and various PBS channels as well as a number of other, almost 15 channels all together.

My DNSHD stations were turned off, 392 etc.

Those are the regular channels numbers all right.:) But, some could still be CONUS as the receiver has the capability of remapping channels numbers. In fact, that's how it's often done for locals. At least for the SD versions, not sure about HD.

I guess the question for those more in the know. Do those in the NYC DMA get CONUS or spotbeam versions for the big 4 nets?

So I made the "move" to Long Island today, was as easy as sending D* an email with the new address. Within the hour they had responded and I now get all NYC locals, and ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, MYTV and the CW are all in HD. I also get all the other NYC locals. The transponders are in the high 90's as well, it's on satellite 99 transponders 1 and 3, both for me are reading 96+.

Ok so you state you made the "move" and all it took was emailing DTV with an address you selected? Will that screw up billing? I know NYC addresses of good friends but I don't permantely live there? Please let me know...

You only change your service address keeping the billing address the same. But, then you could use paperless billing.

You only change your service address keeping the billing address the same. But, then you could use paperless billing.

Ok so its that easy, if I change my service address to one in the City, I should then get all NYC stations in HD. I already have paperless billing so that is not an issue.

juventuz - Do you have the email you sent DTV? I would just like the get the correct wording that you used plus the exact email address that you used...I am gonna try this to see if it works?

If not can I change the service address back to my current, no problems???

Thanks

I haven't tried the "move" because I have the main four DNS networks and don't want to lose them. But, I see no reason why you couldn't move back. I'd suggest that in the email to DirecTV you state that the move is temporary for some reason.

I haven't tried the "move" because I have the main four DNS networks and don't want to lose them. But, I see no reason why you couldn't move back. I'd suggest that in the email to DirecTV you state that the move is temporary for some reason.

When you say you have the main 4 DNS, did you obtain those through waivers from the local networks?

I called DirecTV to get waivers and ABC, NBC, and Fox were granted. My CBS affiliate denied. But, when the Super Bowl was going to CBS in HD and my local hadn't yet gone HD, I started to pester them about HD and when it looked like they weren't going HD in time I asked about getting a waiver for WCBS. It took a few tries, but finally they granted it.

I called DirecTV to get waivers and ABC, NBC, and Fox were granted. My CBS affiliate denied. But, when the Super Bowl was going to CBS in HD and my local hadn't yet gone HD, I started to pester them about HD and when it looked like they weren't going HD in time I asked about getting a waiver for WCBS. It took a few tries, but finally they granted it.

You got lucky then with CBS and ABC. I tried several times with ABC and they have continually told me no. I even took a drive up to the station one day and they gave me a hand out of the exact antenna and believe me I have tried all sorts of antenna's and I just cannot get the signal, its really unfair. Was there anything in particular you did? Also CBS and Fox thats shocking they granted, I get them on OTA but its a pain because sometimes the signal cuts out and I gotta move my antenna all over the place. Did you speak to anyone or do anything in particular to get them to grant these to you?

No personal communication. Just emails. Now remember this was a bunch of years ago and only for the SD DNS versions. The HD versions were automatically turned on because of the SD waivers. The rules have changed since then in that SD and HD have different requirements (don't ask).

juventuz - Do you have the email you sent DTV? I would just like the get the correct wording that you used plus the exact email address that you used...I am gonna try this to see if it works?

If not can I change the service address back to my current, no problems???

Thanks

What I did was go to directv.com, from there go to Contact Us, then click on send us an email. Then I chose Orders & Installation under Topic and chose Relocation under Category.

I then put in the following (don't forget to check off Response Needed)

"I am moving to the following address and would like local service changed:

xxx xxx xxx
xxxxx, NY xxxxx

Thank You"

Of course I used the actual address, but that was my entire email. Within the hour I was notified that they changed the address, I logged in and upgraded my Premier service with no locals to Premier with locals and within 5 minutes had all the NY stations.

What I did was go to directv.com, from there go to Contact Us, then click on send us an email. Then I chose Orders & Installation under Topic and chose Relocation under Category.

I then put in the following (don't forget to check off Response Needed)

"I am moving to the following address and would like local service changed:

xxx xxx xxx
xxxxx, NY xxxxx

Thank You"

Of course I used the actual address, but that was my entire email. Within the hour I was notified that they changed the address, I logged in and upgraded my Premier service with no locals to Premier with locals and within 5 minutes had all the NY stations.

Ok I see, I have some friends down in the city and I am going to inquire if I can utilize there address. Now will letters be sent to that address with my name? Curious if its just that seemless or if they start sending mail that I have to reply to, and also would this work for Syracuse area, if I had a syracuse address that the billing got switched to now that Syracuse has locals in HD.

Ok I see, I have some friends down in the city and I am going to inquire if I can utilize there address. Now will letters be sent to that address with my name? Curious if its just that seemless or if they start sending mail that I have to reply to, and also would this work for Syracuse area, if I had a syracuse address that the billing got switched to now that Syracuse has locals in HD.


Plus one more question, not to nag you guys...I have total choice plus package which they no longer offer. It runs me about 67.00 with dvr service and HD. I see that there DVR service plus HD is 69.99, would I have to switch to that if I were to pull this off?

To be honest I don't believe they email anything to that address, just to the billing address. I was using a different local address in order to get NBC waived automatically and they never sent anything to that address.

As for the change in service, I can't help you with that one. I'd assume you'd have to go with the new one. Perhaps you can email them saying you're contemplating moving in the future to an area that currently has local service and you're wondering if it'll be added automatically or if you'll have to go to a different package if you wanted to add locals when you move.

To be honest I don't believe they email anything to that address, just to the billing address. I was using a different local address in order to get NBC waived automatically and they never sent anything to that address.

As for the change in service, I can't help you with that one. I'd assume you'd have to go with the new one. Perhaps you can email them saying you're contemplating moving in the future to an area that currently has local service and you're wondering if it'll be added automatically or if you'll have to go to a different package if you wanted to add locals when you move.

Thanks for the info...you helped out a lot. I personally think I may wait as I am finishing up my basement and I want to order another HD box for a new tv in the near future. If I switch my service address now and then try and order a new box (unless this will not be hampered in anyway), I think it my complicate things, I could see them sending the box to an address in NYC that is not technically mine. I was also thinking of doing this "move" to a Syracuse address, I would imagine this would still work because I know they now have there locals in HD. I will keep you posted, thanks.

It speaks volumes about the sorry state of HD locals in this area that the only reason this thread gets bumped up lately is folks moving or procuring HD Distants with satellite.

It is sad, but very cool/clever at the same time! Props to whoever figured this one out, that Directv is none the wiser.

Sucks that Binghamton is right on the cusp of the line between DMAs that have HD locals and DMAs that do not. I know you guys are definetly <10 markets away, possibly <5 markets away. I guess this isn't a priority for Directv since what, 90% of the population in the US get HD local networks?

It speaks volumes about the sorry state of HD locals in this area that the only reason this thread gets bumped up lately is folks moving or procuring HD Distants with satellite.

After watching NYC stations the locals are about worthless.
All the stations think they should get a Million Dollars from D* or E* and in WBNG's case TWC for HD. When in fact they're not worth $.02 compared to other DMA's.
To bad the FCC can't come up with a cost times how many viewers on whatever service, DBS, Cable OR FIOS.
When I come home every couple of weeks, it's pathetic to watch local HD TV.

After watching NYC stations the locals are about worthless.

I realize, but to be fair, the local stations don't have the kind of budget to work with that the stations in a major metro area do. With the bombshell NBC (http://www.tvweek.com/news/2008/07/nbc_affiliates_prepare_to_swal.php) dropped wherein they want the local affiliates to compensate for programming, you have to wonder about the future of the small market affiliates.

anyone heard anything about when the next round of HD channels are coming and which.

For which provider?

I've just moved into Corning and I'm wondering if anyone has any advice for me on my TV setup. I skimmed a bunch of these pages. I'm primarily looking for the locals in HD so I can watch football this fall. Other than that, Blockbuster / PS3 keep me more than entertained.

Dish doesn't get the locals with my address, neither does DirectTV. When I go to TWC they only have Fox / NBC (but that's $60 a month). I've tried some OTA antennas (indoor) and I can only get Fox.

Seeing as I'd be a new customer, I don't think I can do this 'move' thing?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

I've just moved into Corning and I'm wondering if anyone has any advice for me on my TV setup. I skimmed a bunch of these pages. I'm primarily looking for the locals in HD so I can watch football this fall. Other than that, Blockbuster / PS3 keep me more than entertained.

Dish doesn't get the locals with my address, neither does DirectTV. When I go to TWC they only have Fox / NBC (but that's $60 a month). I've tried some OTA antennas (indoor) and I can only get Fox.

Seeing as I'd be a new customer, I don't think I can do this 'move' thing?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

You might be able to pull off the "move" but you may have to wait a month. Again if its as easy as juve states then you might be able to wait a month and then even switch your address to a syracuse or rochester (assuming that your area would have a spot beam of the locals). Refer back to the email template and try it, you just may have to wait a few weeks. I have not tried myself but soon I will be doing so.

My question is if I pull of this move I want another HD box in about a month, will they send to the service address? Will they have to come out and install?

For which provider?

sorry, Time (crappy hd channels) warner Cable

sorry, can't help you with that one. There was someone here who seemed to have some insider info. Not sure what happened to him.

WIVT applied for an extension of operating on ch 4 post-transition, since they have to use a transmitter from a station in California that is currently in use.

So it looks like WIVT's crappy 1.5kw signal on ch 4 will continue post 2/17/09(their website lists April timeframe) before they get their digital signal online on ch 34.

Their website actually has a page that has some fairly detailed information (http://www.newschannel34.com/content/dtvinfo/default.aspx). Basically it talks about how VHF-LO sucks, and a link to that antenna that they seem to think everyone should buy just to get their station. They also note that the Channel Master converter box is problematic, and the Zenith ones(DTT900/DTT901) and Artec T3A Pro "proved reliable". I'm hooking up some DTT901's for a family member who is in Binghamton, according to Tvfool I'll have plenty of signal and should be able to get with a plain indoor set of rabbit ears, but we'll see.

so anyone else notice that TWC pulled all of the HD channels that had the olympics off air? USAHD, CNBCHD, a soccer channel and one other I believe. I'm a little pissed about that. Why not just leave them on the air?

I'm sure the deal TW had with NBC was just for the Olympics. And the basketball and soccer channels were only temporary to begin with.

I'm sure the deal TW had with NBC was just for the Olympics. And the basketball and soccer channels were only temporary to begin with.

I'm sure that's the case, but if you're going through all the trouble of making a deal for the olympics, why not negotiate permanent contracts. At least for USAHD and CNBCHD, two channels that people may actually watch.... Oh well I guess that's the way it goes.....

With TWC? Yeah, that is the way it goes and it's the reason I kicked them to the curb 8 and a half years ago.

Indiana627, how's your OTA reception?
So I picked up my new TV (http://www.sonystyle.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10551&storeId=10151&langId=-1&productId=8198552921665405479) today and took it over to our new house in the Stair Tract (I guess that's what it's called as I've heard more than 1 person refer to the area as that). I connected my Silver Sensor antenna (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16882641220&guid=688216d7815940858d822b344eba27af) and ran the auto scan for channels. With my TV in the basement where I don't get very good cell phone service, I picked up the following digital channels:

12.1
40.1
40.2
42.6 (music only - some sort of PBS channel?)
42.7 (music only - some sort of PBS channel?)
46.1
46.2
46.3

I was disappointed that I did not get 34.1 (or is it 4.1?). I did get the analog version of channel 34. I'll be moving the TV upstairs this weekend once our furniture is moved in and I'm hoping then I'll be able to get 34.1. Does anyone think moving the TV and antenna up one level will help get 34.1?

Also, I was quite disappointed with the PQ of 12.1. A 4x3 SD soap opera was on so I wasn't expecting HD quality, but when the Buffalo CBS station showed a 4x3 SD show, it looked a lot better than what I saw today did. Will moving the TV upstairs help improve PQ too?

We're looking forward to moving in this weekend. D* is coming Sunday so we're no longer forced to suffer with TWC. I'll report back when I can.

42.6 (music only - some sort of PBS channel?)
42.7 (music only - some sort of PBS channel?)

Is there audio? My first guess would have been that these have no audio or video, as they'd fit the profile of datacasting from UpdateTV...

I was disappointed that I did not get 34.1 (or is it 4.1?). I did get the analog version of channel 34. I'll be moving the TV upstairs this weekend once our furniture is moved in and I'm hoping then I'll be able to get 34.1. Does anyone think moving the TV and antenna up one level will help get 34.1?

No. The Silver Sensor will not receive the signal on channel 4, as it is a UHF-only antenna. That it gets WBNG/WICZ is great, I wouldn't expect it to get a signal as low as channel 4. You'll want to try rabbit ears or something similar for it.

- Trip

Also, I was quite disappointed with the PQ of 12.1. A 4x3 SD soap opera was on so I wasn't expecting HD quality, but when the Buffalo CBS station showed a 4x3 SD show, it looked a lot better than what I saw today did. Will moving the TV upstairs help improve PQ too?

We're looking forward to moving in this weekend. D* is coming Sunday so we're no longer forced to suffer with TWC. I'll report back when I can.

WBNG's SD picture is atrocious OTA. My wife watching a couple soaps on that channel and when we "moved" to NYC and started receiving the CBS from there there was an immediate improvement. She even commented how much better the picture looked.

Do you know which company is installing your D* stuff?

Is there audio? My first guess would have been that these have no audio or video, as they'd fit the profile of datacasting from UpdateTV...
Yes there was audio on both. Classical music to be exact, which is why I thought it was PBS related.
The Silver Sensor will not receive the signal on channel 4, as it is a UHF-only antenna. That it gets WBNG/WICZ is great, I wouldn't expect it to get a signal as low as channel 4. You'll want to try rabbit ears or something similar for it.
- Trip
I was wondering about that. Another forum member said since I was so close to the towers that he thought it would work even for channel 4. I see what happens this weekend when I move the TV and antenna upstairs. Does WIVT show up as 4.1, or do they remap it to 34.1?

WBNG's SD picture is atrocious OTA.
But their HD feed is OK? Now I'm worried about any SD CBS shows we watch and how bad they'll look.
Do you know which company is installing your D* stuff?
No clue.

Also, does the CW network broadcast OTA? I thought they were on a subchannel of WBNG (12.2 presumably)?

So I made the "move" to Long Island today, was as easy as sending D* an email with the new address. Within the hour they had responded and I now get all NYC locals, and ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, MYTV and the CW are all in HD. I also get all the other NYC locals. The transponders are in the high 90's as well, it's on satellite 99 transponders 1 and 3, both for me are reading 96+.
Are there any magically ZIP codes that would qualify to receive the NYC HD locals AND get the Buffalo Sabres games without having to get Center Ice?

Yes there was audio on both. Classical music to be exact, which is why I thought it was PBS related.

That's very interesting. I checked Wikipedia, and it looks like those are in fact the audio feeds from WSKG-FM and WSQX-FM. That's a nice catch; I wasn't aware of it.

I was wondering about that. Another forum member said since I was so close to the towers that he thought it would work even for channel 4. I see what happens this weekend when I move the TV and antenna upstairs. Does WIVT show up as 4.1, or do they remap it to 34.1?

As far as I know, they remap to 34-1, but you might want to put in 4.3 on your receiver to try and get them that first time. Try 4.1 as well, it varies with your tuner.

I have managed to receive low-VHF with the Silver Sensor exactly once. I was riding through Harrisburg PA and WHP-DT 4 came through for about 5 seconds while we were less than a mile from the tower. Rabbit ears were able to deliver it (poorly) 20 miles out.

I wouldn't bet on the Silver Sensor getting it. At 1.5 kW on channel 4, it's going to be a hard catch.

- Trip

But their HD feed is OK? Now I'm worried about any SD CBS shows we watch and how bad they'll look.

They're HD feed looked just fine to me. I like the Amazing Race and hated the way it looked on WBNG.

Also, does the CW network broadcast OTA? I thought they were on a subchannel of WBNG (12.2 presumably)?

No, our local CW does not broadcast OTA, not to mention there isn't even an HD feed of it through TWC. You should receive an automatic waiver through D* to get the Washington DC channel, channel 385 I believe.

Are there any magically ZIP codes that would qualify to receive the NYC HD locals AND get the Buffalo Sabres games without having to get Center Ice?

Not sure, but aren't the Sabres games now on MSG+? That's available as a local. Since I'm a Rangers fan I'm set though so I hadn't really thought of it.

I know when we had TWC I used to get annoyed that I couldn't watch Red Bulls games on FSNY because Sabres games were preempting them.

As far as I know, they remap to 34-1, but you might want to put in 4.3 on your receiver to try and get them that first time. Try 4.1 as well, it varies with your tuner.
- Trip
Actually 4.3 did come in very briefly but I was confused since I thought it should have been 4.1. I'll guess I'll just have to wait and see this weekend once the TV and antenna are moved to their permanent location.
They're HD feed looked just fine to me. I like the Amazing Race and hated the way it looked on WBNG.
Yeah I love Amazing Race and am now worried about how bad it's going to look. At least Survivor went HD for this season, and all CBS NFL games will be HD this season too.
Not sure, but aren't the Sabres games now on MSG+? That's available as a local. Since I'm a Rangers fan I'm set though so I hadn't really thought of it.
Yes, but the Sabres games are on MSG alternative channel 627 for road SD games and 627-1 home HD games (at least those were the channel numbers last season before D* moved the RSNs around this summer). But even though I got both MSG and FSNY (now MSG+) in Buffalo, the Rangers, Devils and Islander games were blacked out since I was not considered in the NYC market. Here in Binghamton I should be able to get all 4 team's games since we are considered to be in both the Sabres and Rangers/Devils/Islanders market. My fear of moving to a ZIP that qualifies me for NYC HD locals is that I'd no longer be considered in the Sabres market.

Also, what other potential pitfalls are there of "moving" like this? What if D* finds out? And since my Movers Connection install is this weekend, would it look suspicious if I all of a sudden "move" again fairly soon?

And do you need a real address? Or just a best made up address? Do they ever verify it somehow?

Actually 4.3 did come in very briefly but I was confused since I thought it should have been 4.1. I'll guess I'll just have to wait and see this weekend once the TV and antenna are moved to their permanent location

Yes, if you saw it on 4.3, that's where you need to look. That's expected.

Basically, each station has to define their feeds with a "Program Number." So each video, audio, etc stream has a "PID" which defines it, so we'll use WIVT-DT, which is probably:

0x0031 for video
0x0034 for audio

The reason it's 0x0031 and not 0x0011 is because the FCC has asked them to begin on 3 and not 1. Supposedly it's for "international coordination reasons" but I don't know which reasons those are. Anyway, each of those PIDs are bound together into a "Program Number." That program number can really be almost any number. Some stations choose to make it Program 1, but all of the Binghamton stations made their first one Program 3, which correlates directly to the PIDs.

Thus, 4.3 is where you'll be looking. =)

- Trip

Yes, but the Sabres games are on MSG alternative channel 627 for road SD games and 627-1 home HD games (at least those were the channel numbers last season before D* moved the RSNs around this summer). But even though I got both MSG and FSNY (now MSG+) in Buffalo, the Rangers, Devils and Islander games were blacked out since I was not considered in the NYC market. Here in Binghamton I should be able to get all 4 team's games since we are considered to be in both the Sabres and Rangers/Devils/Islanders market. My fear of moving to a ZIP that qualifies me for NYC HD locals is that I'd no longer be considered in the Sabres market.

Ahh I hadn't thought of that. For me the NYC RSN's are fine since I'm a Rangers fan.

I'd post up on satelliteguys or dbstalk and ask if people in the NYC DMA are able to watch Sabres games locally on the MSG subchannels.

Also, what other potential pitfalls are there of "moving" like this? What if D* finds out? And since my Movers Connection install is this weekend, would it look suspicious if I all of a sudden "move" again fairly soon?

I suppose if they find out they could just deactivate the local service. I know someone that "moved" a couple years ago (in a different area) and he's had no problems since.

And do you need a real address? Or just a best made up address? Do they ever verify it somehow?

I'd say it's best to use a real address, that's what I'm doing.

As far as I know, they remap to 34-1, but you might want to put in 4.3 on your receiver to try and get them that first time. Try 4.1 as well, it varies with your tuner.

I have managed to receive low-VHF with the Silver Sensor exactly once. I was riding through Harrisburg PA and WHP-DT 4 came through for about 5 seconds while we were less than a mile from the tower. Rabbit ears were able to deliver it (poorly) 20 miles out.

I wouldn't bet on the Silver Sensor getting it. At 1.5 kW on channel 4, it's going to be a hard catch.

- Trip
I was back at the house today doing some more work. At lunch I moved the TV and antenna around a little in the basement and got 4.3 to come in. The signal strength was only 32 out of 100, but it didn't really breakup too much. I'm hoping it will only get better once everything is moved upstairs and the antenna is actually above ground (the entire basement where the antenna is sitting now is below grade).

ESPNUHD has been added on channel 812! Pretty considering the channel launched on Thursday.

You guys don't realize how many more HD channels you have with TW here, ever since they started using SDV. Most Comcast markets do not have close to this many channels, including Philadelphia, where they are HQ'ed! Still waiting for any form of ESPNU down there, I think I need to get a slingbox and set it up here in Binghamton, haha.

I love football, and I am a fan of the AFC in particular. I will miss our games dearly this year because I absolutely REFUSE to watch that garbage spewing forth from WBNG. I guess my football fix will come from ESPNU, ESPN, FOX and NBC. Unbelieveable. Quite frankly, I rarely even leave the HD tier on TWC, and if it's not in HD I don't bother for the most part anyway. Thanksgiving will be tough, but I'll make do.

Would someone post the URL to TWC's HD lineup for Binghamton?
I'd like to compare it with DirecTV's HD.

jd- Here (http://www.timewarnercable.com/CustomerService/CLU/TWCCLUs.ashx) is the Time Warner lineup

I installed a couple DTV boxes for someone today, no problems getting WIVT-DT, located in Binghamton near Lourdes, with just rabbit ears. I didn't see WBGH on 34-2 though, I thought that was carried as a subchannel? Guess not. WSKG-DT has 2 subchannels, there is another one besides the "Create" one.

WICZ/WBPN is not putting out program/guide data, the rest of the channels are.

I moved my TV and Silver Sensor antenna upstairs today and reran the auto channel search and WIVT came in on both 4.3 and 34.1 with a signal strength of about 71 out of 100 so I'm quite happy. WBNG and WICZ are both coming in above 90 signal strength. WSKG is in the 60s. I'm also happy to report that SD content on WBNG looks much better than it did when the TV was in the basement (The Amazing Race should be watchable!).

I'm still going to play with the positioning of the antenna to see if I can get WIVT even stronger - these numbers were just with setting it next to the TV.

(And man - what a picture on this new TV - the US Open tennis looked great!)

I moved my TV and Silver Sensor antenna upstairs today and reran the auto channel search and WIVT came in on both 4.3 and 34.1 with a signal strength of about 71 out of 100 so I'm quite happy.

I'd be curious to find out how your reception is during the next thunderstorm.

- Trip

Thanks for the TWC HD link, ak3883.

There are three words associated with OTA for our area.

location, location, location.

I just fired off my annual letter to WBNG complaining about the lack of HD on TWC.

I seriously haven't watched anything on the channel for over a year now.

I just fired off my annual letter to WBNG complaining about the lack of HD on TWC.

I seriously haven't watched anything on the channel for over a year now.

If only they cared.

I guess we should send letters/emails to WBNG's advertisers. :)

Any word on when our NBC affiliate will go full power and HD?
Will The CW ever go full power OTA and HD or at least a subchannel to WBNG.

I'm concerned that when DirecTV gets around to provide our locals in HD that NBC and The CW will be missing.

Any word on when our NBC affiliate will go full power and HD?
Will The CW ever go full power OTA and HD or at least a subchannel to WBNG.

I'm concerned that when DirecTV gets around to provide our locals in HD that NBC and The CW will be missing.

Wiki says that the CW is currently broadcasting on 12-2, they weren't when I was in town 2 weeks ago setting up a DTV box for someone... unless they have in the last 2 weeks... I have no way to tell.

As for WBGH, they are owned by WIVT, so don't expect anything anytime soon. There aren't any new FCC docs for a new digital channel for WBGH, as you know WBPH is constructing/applying for a new digital signal on digital 23.

Time Warner has The CW(SD only) and NBC HD, so Directv might be able to wire up some kind of connection from the station to be directly fed to/uplinked to Directv/satellites? Although I'm sure Directv wouldn't wanna pay for it.

All the more reason for me to stay with the DNS from DirecTV.

Now if they would just supply an HD CW as DNS.
I do get the SD out of Washington.

Is time warner going to get ABC HD anytime soon or is that kinda the same deal as CBS?

According to the TWC website, WIVTHD Binghamton is carried.
http://www.timewarnercable.com/CustomerService/CLU/TWCCLUs.ashx?linkid=22

According to the TWC website, WIVTHD Binghamton is carried.
http://www.timewarnercable.com/CustomerService/CLU/TWCCLUs.ashx?linkid=22
Not in Elmira, which is where the OP is located. We're waiting on WENY to go HD.

I fired off a letter to WBNG several months ago asking when they would be on TWC, and got a quick reply back suggesting that I buy an antenna. Sigh.

Yeah, I saw the location for the poster, but thought others might like the link.

Not in Elmira, which is where the OP is located. We're waiting on WENY to go HD.

Good luck with that. I've found data suggesting that WENY will go digital after the transition, but it will still be 480i.

I fired off a letter to WBNG several months ago asking when they would be on TWC, and got a quick reply back suggesting that I buy an antenna. Sigh.

That shows how stupid they are. Firing off a standard response without even looking at the address on your letterhead,

I live right next to the Binghamton airport. I pick up CBS great, ABC ok, FOX ok at times and NBC barely. Every one of them come in fuzzy except for CBS. I installed my new DTV box and I am only picking up CBS. My question is, since I can pick up the local channels a little bit with rabbit ears, how much better will they come in with a rooftop antenna? Also have all the stations gone digital yet? Why can I not pick up NBC, ABC or FOX with my DTV box? Thanks :-).

All full power local stations had to go digital awhile ago. For us that means ABC, CBS, Fox, and PBS. Those four are now broadcasting in HD. Since you said your analog reception with the indoor antenna is fuzzy (ghosting), that interferes with the digital reception. The tuner can't lock on due to multipathing. You should try an outdoor rooftop antenna. Do you have a fairly straight line of sight to the towers?

And, in case you didn't know it, the digital frequencies for the stations are ABC (4), CBS (7), Fox (8) and PBS (42). ABC will revert to 34 next year.

BTW, MyNetwork can be found on a sub-channel of ABC and there are two subchannels used by PBS.

BTW, MyNetwork can be found on a sub-channel of ABC and there are two subchannels used by PBS.

I believe MyNetwork is found on the sub-channel for FOX.

I believe MyNetwork is found on the sub-channel for FOX.That's true, I had a brain fart.:eek:

There are also rumors that The CW may show up as a subchannel to CBS.

Anyone know why WIVT broadcasts their pillar bars gray instead of black like everyone else when showing a 4x3 show on their digital channel? I personally like black and find the gray distracting.

All full power local stations had to go digital awhile ago. For us that means ABC, CBS, Fox, and PBS. Those four are now broadcasting in HD. Since you said your analog reception with the indoor antenna is fuzzy (ghosting), that interferes with the digital reception. The tuner can't lock on due to multipathing. You should try an outdoor rooftop antenna. Do you have a fairly straight line of sight to the towers?

And, in case you didn't know it, the digital frequencies for the stations are ABC (4), CBS (7), Fox (8) and PBS (42). ABC will revert to 34 next year.

BTW, MyNetwork can be found on a sub-channel of ABC and there are two subchannels used by PBS.

JD Spencer: Funny you should mention it, I just got declined again by ABC for the waiver I submitted through DTV. I have tried a roof top antenna (several) and also several indoor antenna's pointed right to the towers and for the life of me cannot pick up ABC...now I ask what is it going to take for ABC to grant me a waiver??? Any suggestions??? Do I have to contact someone in particular to get this taken care of, I have had enough of this nonsense with ABC not granting a waiver.

Anyone know why WIVT broadcasts their pillar bars gray instead of black like everyone else when showing a 4x3 show on their digital channel? I personally like black and find the gray distracting.It may be that WIVT has decided to insert the 4:3 picture within a 16:9 with gray. Other channels are either using black or are actually broadcasting a 4:3 signal to allow the user's TV to set the bar color.

JD Spencer: Funny you should mention it, I just got declined again by ABC for the waiver I submitted through DTV. I have tried a roof top antenna (several) and also several indoor antenna's pointed right to the towers and for the life of me cannot pick up ABC...now I ask what is it going to take for ABC to grant me a waiver??? Any suggestions??? Do I have to contact someone in particular to get this taken care of, I have had enough of this nonsense with ABC not granting a waiver.Way back when, I had to pester WBNG to grant me a waiver. Maybe inviting the chief engineer out and off him dinner would help.:)

Way back when, I had to pester WBNG to grant me a waiver. Maybe inviting the chief engineer out and off him

Just make sure he calls DIRECTV and grants the waiver before that, then destroy all incriminating evidence. Make Tony Soprano proud. :D

Just make sure he calls DIRECTV and grants the waiver before that, then destroy all incriminating evidence. Make Tony Soprano proud. :D

I don't think I am gonna offer the chief engineer dinner, I tried driving up to the station but I have no clue where its located. So now today I am gonna call see if I can get some direction on where we can go with this. The have to be aware that not everyone in this area can pick up there crappy signal. I mean I have no problem with Fox and WBNG and I got a waiver for NBC but stupid ABC keeps declining me.

It may be that WIVT has decided to insert the 4:3 picture within a 16:9 with gray. Other channels are either using black or are actually broadcasting a 4:3 signal to allow the user's TV to set the bar color.
It must be how WIVT is sending out their 4x3 signal. My TV and D* HD DVR are both set to use black pillar bars when needed. Maybe the WIVT chief engineer has a plasma and doesn't want the black bars to burn in.

Don't most or all of the former Clear Channel stations in New York use gray bars? I could swear that WSYR-DT has (had?) them, not sure about the others...

- Trip

Anyone know when verizon plans to roll out FIOS to the elmira, horseheads, big flats, corning area? I remember talking to a verizon guy a long time ago about it. He said that a lot of rich corning executives wanted it and that in order to bring it into corning area that they would have to go from elmira to corning since that is where the dial tone comes from.

What I did was go to directv.com, from there go to Contact Us, then click on send us an email. Then I chose Orders & Installation under Topic and chose Relocation under Category.

I then put in the following (don't forget to check off Response Needed)

"I am moving to the following address and would like local service changed:

xxx xxx xxx
xxxxx, NY xxxxx

Thank You"

Of course I used the actual address, but that was my entire email. Within the hour I was notified that they changed the address, I logged in and upgraded my Premier service with no locals to Premier with locals and within 5 minutes had all the NY stations.

Some updated news about the DTV "move"....I was talking to a person from the Syracuse area who told me about this move and they stated that the best thing to do was to find a campground in a zip code close to the city that you know would get local HD NYC stations. Then from there change the address by one (ex if the actual address is 168 Direct TV ave, change to 167 or 169). He stated that this worked like a charm. And then what he did was call up DTV during late hours to get there India call center, to switch his service address back to his billing address, and when he did so, he never lost the HD locals from the City. I found that hard to believe but he said it worked.

Now what i was thinking of doing was using a NYC address that I know is not a true address but the zip code is true, emailing DTV and then telling them to move me there...I would think this should work!?!?!?

Not sure if using a fake address would work or not. How close are you to Syracuse? They just got their locals launched in HD.

Not sure if using a fake address would work or not. How close are you to Syracuse? They just got their locals launched in HD.

Well I am 60 miles south. Also, doesn't it go by zip code, not actual address??? If I use a NY address (that actually is legitimate, but its just not a house or apartment) shouldn't it not matter? This guy who was telling me about it is apparently using an address that may not be real and it worked for him, I think its all based on zip code to be honest with you...or is??? I am not 100 percent sure. He also stated to me, as I asked if I could do this move to the syracuse area that "If you switched to an address up here (syracuse) the HD Locals are spot beamed and from what I know it's a pain to get them without jacking ur National HD. Since the locals in HD come in off the Slimline 5 dish may be a pain..." I really have no clue what that means, but shouldn't I be ok with using this false address in NYC for the "move"

I don't want to say it'd be ok and then they question the validity of the address. I'm using a real address, but it's a relatives. I'm receiving the NYC locals off the NYC spotbeam, that's how I'm getting the CW in HD as well as all the other stations, like channel 13, 25, 55, etc.

I'd imagine that Syracuse's spotbeams are a lot easier to maintain given our location than the NYC spotbeam. Once I switched to the NYC locals, they got rid of my DNS stations.

I don't want to say it'd be ok and then they question the validity of the address. I'm using a real address, but it's a relatives. I'm receiving the NYC locals off the NYC spotbeam, that's how I'm getting the CW in HD as well as all the other stations, like channel 13, 25, 55, etc.

I'd imagine that Syracuse's spotbeams are a lot easier to maintain given our location than the NYC spotbeam. Once I switched to the NYC locals, they got rid of my DNS stations.

Ok so basically I could use a syracuse address and get those HD locals then is what you are saying. I am not sure they would check the validity of an address but if you are suggesting it may be safe to try an address that is valid. Do your relatives ever get mail on your behalf from DTV?

Well I finally got digital channels to work. I bought a rooftop antenna from a guy on craigslist for $20. Hooked it up, pointed in the direction of the towers and BAM! I got FOX, ABC, CBS and UPN crystal clear. I can't get NBC in digital though. I get it in analog but its fuzzy. Anyone know what channel NBC is in Digital? Also, will an Preamp or Amplifier help me get it in better?

There is no NBC digital in Binghamton.

- Trip

Anyone know when verizon plans to roll out FIOS to the elmira, horseheads, big flats, corning area? I remember talking to a verizon guy a long time ago about it. He said that a lot of rich corning executives wanted it and that in order to bring it into corning area that they would have to go from elmira to corning since that is where the dial tone comes from.

bump!! im curious to find this out

bump!! im curious to find this out

Well, I asked the same question (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14266875#post14266875) a few pages back, bumped it, and got the same crickets chirping response you got. If it is available, it's a well-kept secret.

Last season, WBNG showed all of the Bills games that were broadcast on CBS. If they showed a Jets or Patriots game, it was because the Bills were on Fox or ESPN or had a bye week that weekend.

They used to show the Jets instead of the Bills but they've been solidly Bills for a while.Ha ... so of course after posting this, WBNG decided to show a Giants game last weekend instead of the Bills. :rolleyes:

Ha ... so of course after posting this, WBNG decided to show a Giants game last weekend instead of the Bills. :rolleyes:

Well when you win Super Bowls, that may trump showing the Bills or the Jets. Looking at the upcoming schedule there might be conflicts on 10/26 where the Jets play the Chiefs at 1 on CBS and also the Bills play the Dolphins at 1 on CBS, most likely the Jets will not be shown. The of course on 11/13 the Jets play NE on the NFL Network...probably will need to go to a bar for that one.

Ha ... so of course after posting this, WBNG decided to show a Giants game last weekend instead of the Bills. :rolleyes:

Bills trumping Giants coverage was the reason I left TWC, but I was told by someone who has TWC that an alternate feed/channel was opened for the Bills game.

Ha ... so of course after posting this, WBNG decided to show a Giants game last weekend instead of the Bills. :rolleyes:
Well D* gave me the NFL Sunday Ticket in HD for a great deal, so I was still able to see the Bills great comeback against the Raiders. I have to admit that Sunday Ticket is pretty cool, though I don't know if I'd ever pay full price for it.

Bingo has always and always be more of Giants country. Plus add on top of the fact they are defending champs there is no way the Bills get airtime over the Giants. 50 miles to our west in Elmira it's opposite.

anyone know why my a bunch of my TWC HD channnels say currently not avaible
722,806,807,808,818,819,822,824,825,826,827,829,830,831,837, 839,842.
its been this way all weekend and I notice my RR service had shut off a few times.
I wonder if they are upgrading something

I don't have TWC or RR so I can't tell you. But, I'd call TWC and ask what the problem is. Are your neighbors also having the problem? It could just be a localized problem.

well I would but they are closed on Sunday, I hope the get 12 in HD soon
this is nuts to wait years for CBS in HD.

There's the possibility of OTA!!!

Don't you just love a 24/7 service that's closed on weekends?

There's the possibility of OTA!!!

Don't you just love a 24/7 service that's closed on weekends?

Here is a question I will throw out for OTA. Does anyone know if it would be better to get reception with just regular bunny ears instead of the HDTV ampliefied antennas? I can't get WIVT 34 (as I have complained about a number of times on this forum) and was wondering if a simple switch to something more simple would not overload like an amplifier might and I would be able to pick up...I am trying anything now to figure out why I can't get this stupid station, and was wondering if anyone out there has gone through the same troubles!!!

How far are you from the transmission towers?
Do you have line of sight to them?
Are they tall buildings and trees near the line of sight?
These cause multipath which prevents the tuner from locking on. You need an antenna that will receive chs 4, 7, 8, and 42 for our area. I think rabbit ears would give you a lot of interference, Go for an outdoor antenna (it doesn't need to be amplified).

Currently ch34 is transmitting on digital ch 4 which is a problem. Once the analog cutoff occurs they will revert to ch34.

If you are close then an amplified antenna can cause overload on the tuner.

anyone know why my a bunch of my TWC HD channnels say currently not avaible
722,806,807,808,818,819,822,824,825,826,827,829,830,831,837, 839,842.
its been this way all weekend and I notice my RR service had shut off a few times.
I wonder if they are upgrading something

i'm having the same problem but only with my box without the DVR the 4250HDC, my 8300HD is fine. A reset helped (holding volume up and down at the same time then guide), I believe this is the proper resest combo. it helped the problem for a day or so, but the channels have blacked out again. i believe it's only on the channels that are SDV, but I may be wrong.

Obvious question. Did you call TWC?

Obvious question. Did you call TWC?

not yet. been busy and don't really need to wait on the line for 30 minutes to have HD in my bedroom. But, I did have a tech out there within the last month to fix the same problem.

Here's a question that needs answering before 2/17/2009. We all know that is the date when analog transmissions go dark and those receiving via OTA will either need a TV with an ATSC tuner or a converter box.

So my question is, does this cutoff affect the low power stations which aren't in digital yet? If so, how are those here that receive NBC and MyNetwork going to get them? I know TWC is one answer, but. Then there is the problem with The CW which is cable only.

Luckily, I get the networks in HD from DirecTV, with the exception of The CW and MyNetwork. I'm concerned that when DirecTV gets around to providing our stations that NBC and The CW will be missing. Maybe by then we will have full power stations for those (not holding breath).

So my question is, does this cutoff affect the low power stations which aren't in digital yet? If so, how are those here that receive NBC and MyNetwork going to get them? I know TWC is one answer, but. Then there is the problem with The CW which is cable only.

It doesn't. LPTV stations can stay analog til some yet undetermined date.

Isn't My Network TV on a subchannel of WICZ?

NBC will be analog-only for the time being; I don't see any digital application for them at all.

Wonder when CW+ will show up over the air in this market. You'd think that it would end up on a subchannel as it does in most other markets...

- Trip

Yes, MyNetwork is on a subchannel (no HD) and I've heard that The CW will also. But, that won't help with DirecTV as they most likely won't provide subchannels. It seems that there is a construction permit for My Network. That still leaves our NBC affiliate (WBGH) and The CW lacking.

Anyone know when verizon plans to roll out FIOS to the elmira, horseheads, big flats, corning area? I remember talking to a verizon guy a long time ago about it. He said that a lot of rich corning executives wanted it and that in order to bring it into corning area that they would have to go from elmira to corning since that is where the dial tone comes from.

double bump

How far are you from the transmission towers?
Do you have line of sight to them?
Are they tall buildings and trees near the line of sight?
These cause multipath which prevents the tuner from locking on. You need an antenna that will receive chs 4, 7, 8, and 42 for our area. I think rabbit ears would give you a lot of interference, Go for an outdoor antenna (it doesn't need to be amplified).

Currently ch34 is transmitting on digital ch 4 which is a problem. Once the analog cutoff occurs they will revert to ch34.

If you are close then an amplified antenna can cause overload on the tuner.

Well I believe my line of sight is the issue, and yes I have tried an outdoor antenna with up to 50 mile range (I live approx 7.2 miles from the towers) and that did not work. Now are you saying once they change there digital transmission to 34 I might be able to pick it up over the air with the small amplified antenna i have now sitting behind my TV...I get PBS, MyNetwork, Fox, CBS just fine (have a waiver for NBC)???

Possibly, UHF channels seem to have less problems with multipath.

BTW, I'm 9.2 miles from the towers with Crocker hill in between. I ended up with a Winegard 7084 monstrosity on the roof. Antenna placement is critical. For example, I had this antenna on the south end of my roof and had terrible interference. I moved it about 30' to the north and got good reception. I do have occasional dropouts.

Possibly, UHF channels seem to have less problems with multipath.

BTW, I'm 9.2 miles from the towers with Crocker hill in between. I ended up with a Winegard 7084 monstrosity on the roof. Antenna placement is critical. For example, I had this antenna on the south end of my roof and had terrible interference. I moved it about 30' to the north and got good reception. I do have occasional dropouts.

Yeah and see I am trying to avoid a huge antenna on my roof, for one that is going to be difficult for me to hook up and 2 I live in a dense residential area and a huge monstrosity on my roof would be out of place. There has to be some sort of small antenna that will do the job!?!?!?

There's a whole range of antennas here.
http://www.solidsignal.com/antennas/
Some have had luck with the square shooter mounted in the attic. It is also small enough that mounted outside wouldn't be as noticable.

Yes, ch 34's change to freq 34 should help. Also, I believe once the cutoff occurs some stations can then increase their power, which obviously will help.

I suggest going to Rat Shack and pick up one of their indoor antennas and see if it works. If it doesn't then take it back.

-WBPN(MNT affiliate) is on 40-2, it's a subchannel of WICZ's digital signal on ch 8. WBPN has an application/construction permit for a standalone channel, I think it's 23(or right around there).

-Since WBNG owns WBXI(CW affiliate), I think they have plans to put it on 12-2 in the future. Probably won't see any HD CW feed for a long time, if ever.

-WIVT won't be flash-cutting to digital transmission on ch 34 on 2/17/09. They filed an application for an extension to remain on their pre-transition channel(4) since their transmitter is coming in from a TV station in Fresno California that is also owned by the same parent company. Since the transmitter is currently being used for analog there, they aren't taking it down and shipping it until 2/17/09. I think WPVI's site hinted at an April 2009 timeframe for their digital signal being up and running on ch 34.

-It's unclear what WIVT's plans are for digital operations of WBGH(NBC), obviously they can keep the analog signal on the air past 2/17/09 since they are Class A.


Down here in Philly, our ABC affiliate(which is O&O!) got stuck on VHF 6 post-transition, which is gonna be terrible. Ch 6 is also right on the edge of the FM band. Our PBS is on VHF 12 which isn't so bad, but there are going to be a ton of people who won't be able to get ABC since everything else is on UHF.

If The CW is still around when DirecTV gets to our locals I hope DirecTV will offer an HD version as DNS. What happens to MNT doesn't matter to me. Nothing there I want to watch. I also hope that I can at least hang onto HD from NBC NY

I did hear that there might be a delay in their transision to ch34. Just curious as to why they can't use their existing ch34 transmitter? I would assume that it's an obsolete one.

If The CW is still around when DirecTV gets to our locals I hope DirecTV will offer an HD version as DNS. What happens to MNT doesn't matter to me. Nothing there I want to watch. I also hope that I can at least hang onto HD from NBC NY

I did hear that there might be a delay in their transision to ch34. Just curious as to why they can't use their existing ch34 transmitter? I would assume that it's an obsolete one.

What I am willing to do is try an non-amplified indoor antenna from radio shack to see if that works...the one I have now is amplified and it picks up everything but 34-1 WIVT.

On the CW note, I have direct tv, I get a waiver for a CW from Washington which is not broadcast in HD, and its kinda annoying because I do watch some programming on the CW and it looks terrible in SD. My Network 9 in our area is picked up on 40-2 however is there an HD feed, or will there be an HD feed available soon?

What I am willing to do is try an non-amplified indoor antenna from radio shack to see if that works...the one I have now is amplified and it picks up everything but 34-1 WIVT.Make sure the antenna you try is capable of getting the VHF-LO channels (2-6).


On the CW note, I have direct tv, I get a waiver for a CW from Washington which is not broadcast in HD, and its kinda annoying because I do watch some programming on the CW and it looks terrible in SD. My Network 9 in our area is picked up on 40-2 however is there an HD feed, or will there be an HD feed available soon?I also have the DC CW feed from DirecTV. What I find unacceptable is that feed isn't at least letterboxed. And because of this I'm downloading Smallville and Supernatural via the internet. Don't expect MyN in HD any time soon. Maybe, once they get their own transmitter.

D* moved the NYC locals and spotbeam to D11 today, I'm happy to say that I'm still receiving NYC locals... and yes that includes the CW in HD ;)

I noticed the signal strength is a bit stronger.

On what channel number is The CW in HD?
Are you using a NYC address?

It's channel 11.

I'm using an uncle's address in Nassau County. On Long Island.

Thought so. :)

It's channel 11.

I'm using an uncle's address in Nassau County. On Long Island.

I am gonna be making this "move" at some point myself...does the address have to be legit? I have an address that I could use but its not an apartment or house per say!?!?!?!

I recently switched to antenna only with 2 HD TiVos. I bought an Antennas Direct db4 and mounted on my roof using the old DirecTV mounting and cabled. Get gorgeous reception of CBS, ABC, FOX, and PBS. I'm pretty far out (Port Crane, near State Park), but on a hill. Signal strength is in 80s or 90s for all these channels.

What's the story with NBC out of Elmira. Is their digital station broadcasting yet? I get nothing from them, but Syracuse NBC is coming in about 20% strengh even though I'm pointing SSW. I'm tempted to try pointing towards Syracuse and see what I can pull in. I can get the analog NBC out of Elmira, but its very snowy. Need to get something figured out before the superbowl! 8^)

No one knows anything about fios in the chemung-steuben area?

No one knows anything about fios in the chemung-steuben area?

Verizon doesn't make their future plans of FIOS known to the public. Basically you'll know when it happens.

My question: Is there somewhere that I can find out what channels we get locally, both OTA and using TWC? Using no cable box, just straight from the cable into the tv, I guess that's QAM? I hooked up the cable line from my RR into the TV.

I used my Panasonic tv to scan the channels but I didn't come up with anything for OTA (which I talked about before in this thread) and the cable scan comes up with tons of digital channels that don't have anything actually on them.

What's the story with NBC out of Elmira. Is their digital station broadcasting yet? I get nothing from them, but Syracuse NBC is coming in about 20% strengh even though I'm pointing SSW. I'm tempted to try pointing towards Syracuse and see what I can pull in. I can get the analog NBC out of Elmira, but its very snowy.

Well, there you go. If the analog is weak then your chance for digital is nil. Yes, WETM is doing digital OTA, 18-1 for their main broadcast and 18-2 WETM2 sub-channel. I know because I pick it up, but I'm less than 5 miles from the transmitter. While it's nice to have NBC in HD, since I need it for "The Office", Conan, and SNF, it's less-than-stellar PQ-wise with no DD5.1 sound. If you can get Syracuse, you'd be better off.

WETM-DT is on channel 2. It's an absolutely awful channel for digital, and I'd be very surprised if it's at all reliable for the few people who can see it.

They move to channel 18 next year. Try again then.

- Trip

My question: Is there somewhere that I can find out what channels we get locally, both OTA and using TWC? Using no cable box, just straight from the cable into the tv, I guess that's QAM? I hooked up the cable line from my RR into the TV.

I used my Panasonic tv to scan the channels but I didn't come up with anything for OTA (which I talked about before in this thread) and the cable scan comes up with tons of digital channels that don't have anything actually on them.

The channels that are provided through QAM is totally controlled by the cable provider(TWC). My panasonic also picks up tons of digital channels that have nothing on them. I also have a 19" magnavox LCD that only picks up QAM channels that actually have video on them. I use that as a reference for my other TV. The problem with QAM is that TWC can just move the channels to a different number without notice and you will have to rescan for them. Basically you will only get the channels that the provider decides to send un-encrypted, which is usually the locals only. I have heard rumors that TWC will be providing more QAM channels, but that remains to be seen.

I live in Horseheads and here is what I currently pick up on QAM:

79-3 (WETM-DT) NBC
79-1 (WYDC-DT) FOX

I would assume if and when WENY goes digital and WBNG-DT signs with TWC, that they would also be found at that point. And I think I get the PBS channels on 84-1, 84-2. I usually don't watch either of these so I always forget about them. And about 6-8 months ago NBC and FOX where on 109-3 and 109-1....so you should scan every so often to keep the channels in sync

WETM-DT is on channel 2. It's an absolutely awful channel for digital, and I'd be very surprised if it's at all reliable for the few people who can see it.

They move to channel 18 next year. Try again then.

- Trip

My problem with it is WETM is going to carry the superbowl and that is before the 2/17/09 switch. I'm really hoping they figure something out by the superbowl. The quality is terrible.

These are the clear QAM my brother receives from TWC-Binghamton.
.
79-13 - WIVT-DT(ABC) - 720p
79-14 - WETM-DT(NBC Elmira) - 1080i
85-13 - WSKG-DT(PBS) - 1080i
85-14 - WICZ-DT(FOX) -720p
85-15 - WSKG-DT2(PBS Create) - 480i

If you live in Binghamton or the surrounding area's here are the clear QAM stations you should be receiving...if there are any updates, not sure, but hopefully someone will post!

I'll check with my brother to see if there are any changes.
Unfortunately he's out of town for a week so maybe someone else can post.

If you live in Binghamton or the surrounding area's here are the clear QAM stations you should be receiving...if there are any updates, not sure, but hopefully someone will post!

As of a month ago, this was it still the case. WBGH does actually broadcast on 79-14 now, they no longer use WETM's NBC HD feed. Obviously this digital/HD feed is only on TWC, not availible OTA.

When/if WBNG actually reached a deal with TWC, I would expect WBNG-DT to be unencrypted as well.

I recently switched to antenna only with 2 HD TiVos. I bought an Antennas Direct db4 and mounted on my roof using the old DirecTV mounting and cabled. Get gorgeous reception of CBS, ABC, FOX, and PBS. I'm pretty far out (Port Crane, near State Park), but on a hill. Signal strength is in 80s or 90s for all these channels.

What's the story with NBC out of Elmira. Is their digital station broadcasting yet? I get nothing from them, but Syracuse NBC is coming in about 20% strengh even though I'm pointing SSW. I'm tempted to try pointing towards Syracuse and see what I can pull in. I can get the analog NBC out of Elmira, but its very snowy. Need to get something figured out before the superbowl! 8^)

I am in Tioga, County PA and can not pick up WETM 18 out of Corning, NY, but Elmira/Corning is our Market. I can see on the Blue Ridge Cable system that WETM is in HD on the cable system. We only get 4 HD channels down Here,

WETM 18, WBNG 12, ESPN and ESPN2.

That sucks. We really need DTV or DN to get us some locals so I can switch!

Has anyone in or around Broome County had luck pulling in Syracuse stations with an antenna? How well do the Bingo stations come in when you're pointing Northwards?

Has anyone in or around Broome County had luck pulling in Syracuse stations with an antenna? How well do the Bingo stations come in when you're pointing Northwards?

In West Bainbridge, Chenango Co. I have a friend that gets the Syracuse stations and still gets the Binghamton stations with the antenna pointed towards Syracuse. If you are looking for NBC you may also want to consider WBRE Scranton their digital signal is on channel 11 some people up this way have had success with that but you may need a different antenna because the DB4 is not a good antenna for ch11. If you haven't yet, try tvfool.com and put in your exact address or coordinates and see what stations and signal levels may be available. I've found it to be fairly accurate for our area, but with the hills just a small difference in your location can really change the results.

A few weeks ago I was doing some searching and found that WNEP16 and a few others have a Digital translater right on the Tioga County/Bradford County line in PA. This isn't far from Elmira at all. It is actually located in Sullivan Township. The elevation is over 2300 feet. I am not sure how much power they are running. It doesn't show up as their regular digital numbers though on the tuner. I get a low signal from them in Mansfield without an outside antenna. I just tried a little digital TV and tuner in my office (don't tell the boss). I live in Wellsboro and can't get them at all with an outside antenna. I have a feeling with the way the terrain travels to the North you may be able to view them.

I don't have any of the info with me here at work though.

We really need DTV or DN to get us some locals so I can switch!

Why? So WBNG deny them CBS-HD the way they do TWC? No thanks! I've done what it takes to get satellite and have it work for me. I get enough locals via antenna and used the waiver process using my legit address to get the 2 networks for the NFL 1 and 4 PM games, CBS and FOX, and receive them in HD. I was aware of the limitations and hoops I had to jump through to be with DIRECTV and have been with them for more than 10 and a half years. I'm happy with the way things are now and don't want the sh*tty locals. If they're your priority, please stay with TWC.

A few weeks ago I was doing some searching and found that WNEP16 and a few others have a Digital translater right on the Tioga County/Bradford County line in PA. This isn't far from Elmira at all. It is actually located in Sullivan Township. The elevation is over 2300 feet. I am not sure how much power they are running. It doesn't show up as their regular digital numbers though on the tuner. I get a low signal from them in Mansfield without an outside antenna. I just tried a little digital TV and tuner in my office (don't tell the boss). I live in Wellsboro and can't get them at all with an outside antenna. I have a feeling with the way the terrain travels to the North you may be able to view them.

I don't have any of the info with me here at work though.

So W26CV-D is on the air now? I can't imagine that 5w transmitter will carry very far...

- Trip

I know this is really OT, but I didn't know where else to ask. I'm looking to have my windows replaced, but being new to town, I don't know who some of the better window contractors are. If anyone has any personal experience with any of them, could you please send me a PM? Or if anyone's heard something good/bad about a particular contractor, that would be appreciated too in a PM.

Thanks - and sorry - again.

Why? So WBNG deny them CBS-HD the way they do TWC? No thanks! I've done what it takes to get satellite and have it work for me. I get enough locals via antenna and used the waiver process using my legit address to get the 2 networks for the NFL 1 and 4 PM games, CBS and FOX, and receive them in HD. I was aware of the limitations and hoops I had to jump through to be with DIRECTV and have been with them for more than 10 and a half years. I'm happy with the way things are now and don't want the sh*tty locals. If they're your priority, please stay with TWC.

I think you missed my point. I am not a twc customer. I am a blue ridge customer. If you think TMC sucks, come down here and check this out. An outdoor antenna is out of the question. I have tried and from where I live I don't get anything except a now and then signal from WYOU 22. I can't even see the digital side of things... If you look at Tioga County you will see we are either in a mtn or in a whole... Antenna service won't work here.

OK, my bad. You're right, in most ways Blue Ridge is way worse than TWC, with the exception of them not giving a rat's arse about pulling in the WBNG-HD feed from antenna and giving it to their subscribers. ;) But, if you're in a situation where you can't pull in an antenna feed, then you should qualify for Distant Networks. Enter your info on this page (http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPageIFnorail.jsp?assetId=P4880022#h:586.812) and see what it turns up. Good luck.

I have been recording shows on NBCHD with my HTPC from Time Warner, the odd thing I noticed is on my receiver it is telling me the audio is in Dolby pro logic. Now OTA channels such as FOX, and CBS do not have this issue, they are all broadcast in Dolby Digital.

My question is does anyone else notice this, or do you think I have something configured wrong.

Most likely TWC isn't passing DD or the NBC station isn't providing it.
I have no way to test it for you.

Does anybody have any info about WENY switching to CBS? I noticed this www.tvweek.com/news/2008/10/cbs_to_add_wenydt_as_affiliate.php ABC probably dropped them because they are the lamest affiliate in the country. I'm still waiting for HD that was suppose to be ready about 3 super bowls ago. I was hoping they would just stop broadcasting so I can watch Binghamtons ABC station on TWC.

I haven't heard that, but I'm not in WENY's market.

If true, then what will you do for ABC, if that matters?
Will TWC use Binghamton's ABC?

hopefully they get some money to upgrade to broadcast hd and twc can drop binghampton's cbs feed.

Does anybody have any info about WENY switching to CBS? I noticed this www.tvweek.com/news/2008/10/cbs_to_add_wenydt_as_affiliate.php ABC probably dropped them because they are the lamest affiliate in the country. I'm still waiting for HD that was suppose to be ready about 3 super bowls ago. I was hoping they would just stop broadcasting so I can watch Binghamtons ABC station on TWC.

MOTHER&#$@^+!!! NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!

*bidger tries to compose himself* D@mn that little PoS station!!! I had everything the way I wanted it, i.e.- waiver for CBS-HD out of NYC via DIRECTV, and now they have to mess it up! I think the last two comments in the linked article by Marty and Ricochet sum it up perfectly, WENY can't afford to do HD for one broadcast, there's no way they're doing it for two. :mad:

great, so basically my cbs is gonna go from okay digital to the same almost unwatchable crap signal that comes out of that pole barn they call a station.

WENY is not dumping ABC. They are adding CBS on another subchannel.

Once that happens, Time Warner will replace WBNG (or black out the CBS programming on WBNG) with WENY's subchannel.

As always with WENY I'll believe it when I see it. I'm disappointed that it does not take effect until after the regular football season is over.

Any News on when we might get WBNG via QAM on TWC. I just got into HD TV with a pair of HDVR-2250 Turner cards and using beyond tv beta 3 4.9.0.0 build 5999 and thought TWC had the 4 biggies on QAM ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX but all i am getting is Fox (wicz) 720p, NBC (wbch) 1080i, ABC (wivt) 720p, WSKG (HD 1080i & NonHD 480p), an AD for TWC Preschool Kids on Demand 480p.

Sorry if this has been answerd in the other 1600 posts. Thanks

Any News on when we might get WBNG via QAM on TWC. I just got into HD TV with a pair of HDVR-2250 Turner cards and using beyond tv beta 3 4.9.0.0 build 5999 and thought TWC had the 4 biggies on QAM ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX but all i am getting is Fox (wicz) 720p, NBC (wbch) 1080i, ABC (wivt) 720p, WSKG (HD 1080i & NonHD 480p), an AD for TWC Preschool Kids on Demand 480p.

Sorry if this has been answerd in the other 1600 posts. Thanks
WBNG and TWC do not have an agreement on carrying WBNG's HD signal, and this has been the case since WBNG started broadcasting in HD in January of 2007. Who knows if it will ever get resolved. :(

As always with WENY I'll believe it when I see it. I'm disappointed that it does not take effect until after the regular football season is over.

I just emailed WENY and got a response back from the News Director, Scott Cook....

"I can tell you, we are in the midst of the digital build-out, and plan to
"go digital" on or before Jan. 1. The plan is to begin broadcasting the
networks' (ABC & CBS) HD programming at the same time."

Scott Cook, News Director
WENY-TV Newschannel 36
474 Old Ithaca Rd.
Horseheads, NY 14845
(607) 739-3636, ext. 12

Looks like in the Elmira Market we will be able to get CBS HD before the Bingo Market....

I just emailed WENY and got a response back from the News Director, Scott Cook....

"I can tell you, we are in the midst of the digital build-out, and plan to
"go digital" on or before Jan. 1. The plan is to begin broadcasting the
networks' (ABC & CBS) HD programming at the same time."

Scott Cook, News Director
WENY-TV Newschannel 36
474 Old Ithaca Rd.
Horseheads, NY 14845
(607) 739-3636, ext. 12

Looks like in the Elmira Market we will be able to get CBS HD before the Bingo Market....

The news director's note is a bit misleading. There isn't enough bandwidth to broadcast two HD programming streams simultaneously over-the-air. However, WENY is likely upgrading its studio so it can send the CBS and ABC HD feeds directly to TWC.

I don't care where TWC gets a CBS HD signal but they need to get one, the next nearest one should be legal and they should say the hell with WBNG since they don't care about a quality picture.

I get WBNG HD with my antenna and watch the Bills game in HD. I've noticed the PQ is not as good on WBNG as it is with the same game on D* NFL ST in HD. On WBNG, the on screen graphics seem to go in and out of focus a lot, as does the picture itself sometimes. I've never seen this when I switch over to watching the same game on the D* channel, so there must be something going on to cause this problem on WBNG's end. Anyone have any ideas?

Strangely enough, I've never seen any problems with primetime HD shows (Cold Case, CSI, Survivor, etc) on WBNG. I've only seen this with sports (in addition to NFL games on Sunday, I've seen it with college football on Saturdays).

However, WENY is likely upgrading its studio so it can send the CBS and ABC HD feeds directly to TWC.

If you're right, it confirms my hunch that TWC has a hand in all this.

If you're right, it confirms my hunch that TWC has a hand in all this.

The only thing here is that if WENY picks up CBS HD that great for those who get WENY up in Elmira, but how about CBS HD getting picked up here in Binghamton???

And if they do pick up CBS HD on WENY will that be carried here in Bingo??? Can we get that sub channel on QAM???

I doubt that WBNG would allow TWC Binghamton to carry ANY out of area CBS station.

Once WBNG is carried, then it has to be on a QAM channel, by FCC rule,

Maybe you noticed it already, but some new HD movie channels have been added to TWC recently. (MAXHD, TMCHD, 3 channels of STARZ HD).

No I haven't noticed. I don't subscribe to TWC. :)

Ha ... Universal HD was added too, but that's been on and off several times so who knows how long it will stay?

I doubt that WBNG would allow TWC Binghamton to carry ANY out of area CBS station.

Once WBNG is carried, then it has to be on a QAM channel, by FCC rule,

It would be pretty bad if a near by CBS out of Elmira area carried HD before WBNG did!!!

It would be even worse if WENY and TWC can't come to an agreement!

A bit off topic, but still related to TWC... does anybody know what the Road Runner speed provided to residential areas is? I thought it was 5MB/s, but someone is telling me it's at 10MB/s now.

It would be even worse if WENY and TWC can't come to an agreement!

The News Director made it sound like they already have an agreement. He explained to me that since I was already a TWC subscriber that I shouldn't have a problem getting their digital/HD signal from either channel (ABC, CBS). Now he never actually said they have an agreement, but he sure implied it.

A bit off topic, but still related to TWC... does anybody know what the Road Runner speed provided to residential areas is? I thought it was 5MB/s, but someone is telling me it's at 10MB/s now.

I think it depends on which level of RR you subscribe to. I have the regular RR that I've had for years. I just did a speed test and here are the results at my house in Horseheads:

4.7 Mbs down and 375 Kbs up

and here is the test I used:
http://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/

Now I know you can get RR turbo or RR light. I'm sure that either of these would change the speeds accordingly.

BTW...RR is also a shared connection. I believe that TWC divides up the connections into blocks of 500 customers. So you'll get faster speeds or slower speeds depending on how many customers on your 'block' are using that connection.

A bit off topic, but still related to TWC... does anybody know what the Road Runner speed provided to residential areas is? I thought it was 5MB/s, but someone is telling me it's at 10MB/s now.

Standard downstream speed for STNY Road Runner is still 5Mb/s. We might be the only region in the state that's still that slow. I lived in Rochester for a while and their standard speed was 10Mb/s for the same $40/mo. price at least 18 months ago. It seems that TWC tends to let speeds lag behind in areas where they don't face strong competition (in Rochester's case, from Frontier DSL).

I'm only slightly annoyed that I pay $45/mo for 8Mb/s Road Runner Turbo in Binghamton when I used to have $40/mo 10Mb/s up in Rochester, and don't get me started on my friend's 20/20 FiOS down outside Philly.

Anyone that uses a TiVO and Cablecard(s), looks like TW is taking preorders (http://www.timewarnercable.com/CentralNY/products/cable/sdv/default.html)for the tuning adaptors promised to be availible soon. They got slammed with some large fines by the FCC recently($40k)

Anyone having problems with WBNG's OTA signal recently?

My signal strength for it used to be high 90s to solid 100, but I started noticing on Sunday (11/2) night during The Amazing Race that I was getting a lot of pixelation and dropouts. I checked the signal strength and now it's in the 80s and sometimes drops to 0 for a few seconds. I've made no changes to my equipment, wiring or positioning of my antenna. Nothing has changed outside (no new buildings or anything like that) - besides I only live about a mile or two from the tower on Ingraham Hill. The only change that I can think of is that all the leaves have now dropped, but most of them had dropped before this past Sunday so if that was somehow causing a problem, I think it would have showed up earlier.

Anyone have any ideas? Or experiencing OTA signal drops for WBNG? Thanks.

(All my other OTA signals are coming in just as strong as ever - my problem is isolated to just WBNG.)

Sorry, I can't really say if there is a problem with WBNG OTA. I don't really use it very much as I get WCBSHD on DirecTV.

Just tuned in and is solid for now.

Sorry, I can't really say if there is a problem with WBNG OTA. I don't really use it very much as I get WCBSHD on DirecTV.

Just tuned in and is solid for now.

Must be nice to get the NY CBS on DTV while the rest of us suffer...I would agree my OTA signals have been terrible for both CBS and FOX. I can't get a steady signal what so ever, it is pissing me off!!!

Maybe your tuner is being overloaded since you are so close to the towers. This can also cause a lock on the signal.

It took a lot of complaining to WBNG about their lack of HD a few years ago when they had the Superbowl. They finally relented and granted the waiver for DirecTV to sell me WCBS.

Yeah I am very close to the towers, but I only use an indoor Silver Sensor antenna sitting on top of my entertainment center, so it's not like I have some big outdoor antenna that really pulls in the signal. I guess I'll just have to see how it does tonight recording Gary Unmarried and CSI:NY.

WBNG denied my waiver request through D* to get CBS HD from NYC. The only waiver I was granted was for NBC (no brainer). I can get all the others fine at my house with my antenna - at least up until recently.

If you have a regular splitter hanging around, connect it to reduce your signal by about half to see what happens. I believe the Silver Sensor has pretty good gain. You have the 1000 model I assume.

I've been getting a pretty steady signal about 40mi ENE of Binghamton I check it from time to time with a spectrum analyzer to see how my DIY antenna is working. Both WBNG and FOX40 are transmitting on VHF-HI ch 7 & 8 which is more prone to man made noise, you may have an issue with that.

If you are using a silver sensor type antenna indoors they are mainly for UHF so I wouldn't think signal would be to the overload point, but as suggested above it's easy to add something in the line to reduce it for a test. Maybe with the leaves off you are getting signals bouncing in from another direction causing multi-path.

Usually signals that go from real strong to nothing on the signal meter are multi-path or noise related. You can check for noise related problems by tuning ch12 analog and see if you are getting any sparkles or funny lines in the picture, while your there look for extreme ghosting that's a good indication of possible multi-path.

I actually have always had a splitter after the Silver Sensor so I can feed both my D* HD DVR and my TV's tuner at the same time. Even with the splitter I always did get real good signal for WBNG. It was OK again last night for Gary Unmarried, and I'm recording Survivor right now. Maybe just something strange was going on near me on Sunday night (and Monday night as Two and a Half Men was very pixelated too). Thanks for the help.

Have you tried it without the splitter?

The reason why I mentioned noise problems is because I went crazy trying to figure out why out of the blue my digital signals would pixelate. In my case it appeared during or after a rain. Come to find out there was a power line nearby that had a problem and was spewing all sorts of interference when it got damp. NYSEG came out and fixed it and no problem since except when the lawn mower is near the antenna, the mower ignition will cause noise on the TV signal.

My reception is affected by the time of year. With the trees losing their leaves my reception gets flaky. I surmise that the leaves actually attenuate the reflected signals reducing multipath until fall.

It took a lot of complaining to WBNG about their lack of HD a few years ago when they had the Superbowl. They finally relented and granted the waiver for DirecTV to sell me WCBS.
Do you remember who you had to talk to at WBNG to get the waiver? I'm thinking about trying to get them to give me a waiver too. Thanks.

I believe I just emailed the chief engineer. But, don't stop there, email everyone you can find. Remember, the rules have changed since I got the waiver.

Do you have any of those email addresses? All I see on their site is a generic email address wbng@ and then addresses for the news, weather and sports departments. I sure would like an email like firstname.lastname@ or engineer@. Maybe you could PM me if you have any of that kind of contact info? Thanks again.

I did have one for the chief engineer, but he died last April.
I don't have a current one. Maybe send one to the station and ask for the chief engineer. Heck try engineer@wbngtv.com. It may get directed to the proper place.

Yea I thought of guessing at a few addresses too and see what "sticks" so to speak. I'll give it a shot. Thanks.

Many times there may be a catchall email address that forwards oddball emails to a central location.

Many times there may be a catchall email address that forwards oddball emails to a central location.

My WBNG and FOX 40 signals are about about 65 percent and they were solid at 90 percent before...its fustrating. I can't even get ABC its just so ridiculous, I have tried everything in the book both indoor and outdoor, I called the station and no one returns my call. Any suggestions? This OTA is starting to really make me mad, once my basement is done and I get all the boxes I need I am making the "move" with DTV because I am fed up with not getting these stations!!!

Channel 34 is digitally broadcasting on ch 4. Low end VHF is a problem unless you have a good VHF capable antenna. I'm 9 miles from the towers with a hill in between. My reception of ABC does breakup and I have a very large Winegard 7084 antenna on my roof. Hopefully, when they changeover to frequency 34 things will get better.

As to ch12 and ch40, the change in season can affect this. It's the change in the environment with the trees losing their leaves. I remember back in the day when we had to re-aim the antenna in the fall to try to eliminate ghosting. At least with analog, you can still watch with ghost. With digital, it causes the tune to not lock on.

What outside antennas have you tried? How far are you from the towers based on http://antennaweb.com? http://dishpointer.com is also a good site.

I'm still getting Fox 40 at 100% rock solid even since my problems with WBNG have started. I'm also getting WIVT at my normal 70-75% with my indoor Silver Sensor, which is UHF only, but since I'm so close to the towers, it works quite well for me. I get WSKG in high 80s-90s too (the only UHF signal in town).

And I agree - OTA can be very frustrating!

Are you saying that the Silver Sensor is receiving ch4? You must be really close to the towers. You could probably get ch4 with a coat hanger. Many UHF antennas can receive high VHF, like chs 7 and 8.

I received WHP-DT on my Silver Sensor in Harrisburg on I-81 going across the bridge within a stone's throw of the tower. It will work if you're right on top of the tower, but that's about it.

- Trip

Are you saying that the Silver Sensor is receiving ch4? You must be really close to the towers. You could probably get ch4 with a coat hanger. Many UHF antennas can receive high VHF, like chs 7 and 8.
Yes, my Silver Sensor gets WIVT digital channel 4. Signal is consistently in the 70s. I don't really have any issues, but I hope once they move to digital 34 this spring that I get signal in the 90s or 100 (like I do with WICZ and used to with WBNG).

I'm so close to the towers that if the tallest one fell just right, it might land on my house! (Well I guess I'm not quite that close, but you get the idea.)

My WBNG and FOX 40 signals are about about 65 percent and they were solid at 90 percent before...its fustrating. I can't even get ABC its just so ridiculous, I have tried everything in the book both indoor and outdoor, I called the station and no one returns my call. Any suggestions? This OTA is starting to really make me mad, once my basement is done and I get all the boxes I need I am making the "move" with DTV because I am fed up with not getting these stations!!!

Look at the analog signals if you are getting bad ghosting then you will have to find a good narrow beam antenna to cut down on the ghosting. It will be almost imposable to find a narrow beam antenna for ch 34 (digital ch4) but they are switching back to ch34 at some point.

Another thing that causes problems is electrical noise and it affects the digital signals more and the lower the channel the worse it's affected. The best way to check for noise is with an AM radio if you are getting alot of buzzing, humming, or crackling on the AM radio you could have noise issues.

If ghosting (Multi-path) is a problem you may want to look into buying something to cut down on the signal they used to sell variable attenuators to help eliminate extreme ghosting. Usually the reflected signal isn't as strong as the actual signal so by cutting down the signals you may be able to get the reflected signal below the threshold where it is troublesome for the tuner and still maintain enough signal to get a good lock.

Digital is more about signal quality than signal strength, I have some pretty weak signals out here in the sticks but almost never have drop outs. I'm lucky enough to have access to a spectrum analyzer and with that I can see the digital signals. On a good day I can get Syracuse stations but they have to be stronger than the Binghamton stations need to be to get a lock because the signals are full of multi-path from bouncing off of the hills. In fact the way I receive the Syracuse stations, when I can is off a bounce from a hill to the south of me.

Although checking the analog signals is a good indication of problems, you must take into account the different frequencies being used between analog and digital. IE: Ch 34 analog is on ch34, but their digital is ch 4. Ch 12 is using 7 for digital and 40 is using 8. So the type of antenna used should focus on the digital frequencies (with the exception in the future of 34).

Although checking the analog signals is a good indication of problems, you must take into account the different frequencies being used between analog and digital. IE: Ch 34 analog is on ch34, but their digital is ch 4. Ch 12 is using 7 for digital and 40 is using 8. So the type of antenna used should focus on the digital frequencies (with the exception in the future of 34).

That is true, but if someone is getting bad ghosting it will usually show up on either especially analog 12 /digital 7 and analog 46 / digital 42 since in each case the antenna being used should have very nearly the same reception pattern.
Analog 34 /4 digital is a whole different animal, I can see why there will be so few VHF-LO digital stations around the US after Feb.

I can say from setting up a few antennas in different locations east of Binghamton and using the analyzer in each case that if the analog signal has ghosts the digital signals usually has multi-path regardless of channel relationship. It may be different in Binghamton since signal is much stronger and the signal path is different I don't know.

Another good way to detect problems is to watch the signal meter on the receiver. If the signal meter changes alot then that's a good indication of interference or multi-path, some meters are different than others but it should always be fairly steady if you have a clean signal.

I have had good luck down there with the winegard hd7082P ch 2-69 antenna (minimum) with a winegard hdp 269 preamp. I pass vhf and amplify only uhf.

Ch 12 is a pain and tends to cause issues. That will go away in a few months though.

How is it possible that I can pick up NBC channel 3 in analog out of Syracuse, but I can NOT pick up NBC Digital channels 3-1 and 3-2? I am also picking up 68-1 which is Syracuse's FOX channel, AND 43-1 which is their UPN channel. I get no signal what so ever on Channel 3 though. I don't understand. I live behind the airport in Binghamton/Maine. Any suggestions on how to get NBC digital out of Syracuse?

Party because Syracuse's analog ch 3 isn't using ch 3 for its digital broadcast. I'll let someone from Syracuse tell you what frequency is being used. :) Okay I got curious, WSTM is using ch 54 for its digital signal. According to the Wikipedia article they will be moving to ch 24 in February.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WSTM-TV

What antenna are you using?

I am using a rooftop antenna that I bought off a guy on Craigslist. I have NO idea what brand or anything really about it. I pick up VHF and UHF channels with it. It is about 7 feet tall and is shaped like an arrow.

I'm thinking that you're too far from Syracuse to get a ch 54 digital signal to lock on. IIRC, VHF does have a tendency to travel farther than UHF. Of course, it all depends on the power of the transmitter.

I just think it's weird that I can get 68-1 and 43-1 out of syracuse but nothing else ya know. Would a preamp help you think?

Possibly.

Check here for info on Syracuse TV stations.
http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?state=NY&call=&arn=&city=syracuse&chan=&cha2=69&serv=&type=0&facid=&list=1&dist=&dlat2=&mlat2=&slat2=&dlon2=&mlon2=&slon2=&size=9

I just think it's weird that I can get 68-1 and 43-1 out of syracuse but nothing else ya know. Would a preamp help you think?

68-1 (ch19) and 43-1 (ch44) are the strongest stations out of Syracuse in our direction and both on the same tower. NBC is one of the weaker ones out of Syracuse you may have a better shot after the transition when they move to ch24. You may also think about trying to get wbre 28 out of Scranton they transmit digital on ch11 that signal travels through the hills better than ch54.

A quality preamp will almost always help unless the local stations are so strong that it overloads to amp.

I think Rick0725 said he has used the winegard hdp 269 in the Binghamton area with good success, it doesn't have the raw gain that some preamps have but has a good noise factor and overload handling abilities.

I'm using that preamp with my antenna.

How much does it actually amplifi the signal jdspencer?

Sorry, I don't have the equipment to give you an actual answer.
But, the specs from a website states that it boosts the signal 12db across the VHF/UHF band

The HDP-269 is a +12dB pre-amp.

Every 3 dB is a doubling so it would be a 16X pre-amp.

I was told that once all stations go completly digital, then the preamps won't work anymore. Is this true?

Not true. I'm using mine on digital stations now. The preamp amplifies the RF signals whether that signal is analog or digital doesn't matter.

I live in Binghamton and I think it's absolutely absurd that Time Warner Cable is still not carrying the CBS aired NFL games in HD. Each and every week, I get to watch the Jets and Bills on my 58" plasma in GLORIOUS, pixelated, disgusting standard definition! Hey, isn't that great?!! :mad:

All I know is we Binghamton customers are paying this lousy company a bunch of cash each and every month, between the Road Runner internet service (which often gets walloped in both up and down speeds when compared to other broadband offerings out there ) and a very sub-par HD television package (which still lacks some of the most appealing HD draws and networks such as USA HD, The NFL Network, etc...).

Have you tried putting up an antenna?

You sound like you might be thinking of going with DirecTV or Dish Network!!!
Except getting the waivers for the NYC DNS stations is getting more difficult.

BTW, the local stations are available on the QAM channels with TWC, but not WBNG. :(

I can't wait till january to see how this CBS deal in Elmira works out.

Platano Maduro...you should install a rooftop antenna. My CBS OTA is HD and the signal is excellent! I watched the Giants kick ass this past Sunday on CBS and the picture was amazing!

Heres a question...I have my antenna mounted on a pole. The pole is attached to an old Dish Network dish that is on the roof. I slid the pole into the opening of the dish network pole opening and screwed it into place. Now does this help my reception, or is the dish network dish causing any kind of interference? I get good signals but I am just wondering if I seperate the antenna pole from the dish, will I get better reception? Thanks.

You're probably okay. The dish could cause multipath depending on its relation to the antenna. If your signals are steady I wouldn't worry about it.

FOX 40 OTA out for anyone else or is it just me? I hope they get it back up before Terminator and Prison Break tonight. I'm going to try and call them.

EDIT: Got through to someone live (took forever). They couldn't get a hold of anyone in engineering, but they said they'd pass the info along. Keeping fingers crossed for 8PM tonight.

Also, WBNG sound is messed up. Lots of static.

No Fox 40 here either. WBNG sound is fine.

FOX 40 came back around 6:45. Sound on WBNG was fixed for the 6:00 news. All is well again.

Anyone with DirecTV having a problem? Was working fine around 7pm or so, then we went to watch something we recorded on the DVR until 8. At 8 we noticed the message "Searching for a satellite signal" on all the tv's. Went outside and the dish is fine, nothing wrong with it. Tried resetting the boxes and nada, same message.

This situation has been reported quite often on a couple other forums.
http://www.satelliteguys.us/directv-forum/155807-woke-up-searching-satellite.html
And
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=140082

What model receivers?

I've got 2 D12-300's and a HR20-700.

I've had DirecTV for 13 months now and have had far too many problems, having gone through 3 HD-DVR's already. Someone who works for AT&T was telling me they plan on bringing U-Verse here sometime next year, if they offer the same HD channels I get through DirecTV I'm done. Heck if TWC offers the same I'm gone. I hate putting up with this, at least once a month I have a problem now.

I've been with DirecTV for 13 years and have had no problems. I currently have the HR10-250 and the HR20-100 active on my account. Previous receivers were the Sony SAT-A2, Sony Sat B2, Sony Sat T60 TiVo, Philips DSR6000 TiVo and the Hughes HTL-HD receiver. I guess I've just been very lucky.

Have you checked out those other forums I linked to for info about problems others have had?

Smackdown25

Add a 91xg for uhf mounted on top and use your current antenna for vhf only (if it is a full channel ch 2-69 antenna). You will need a high gain, directional, antenna to even try. Your current antenna would be not powerful enough to begin with.

Syracuse is going to be tough because of the hills between your site and the syr towers. pm me your full address and I will run some more detailed things to narrow the rest down for you (amp, possibilites, etc.) . pm me your full address and I will run some more detailed things to narrow the rest down for you. I will be in the area wed-fri and can also discuss the situation if you like.

Anyone with DirecTV having a problem? Was working fine around 7pm or so, then we went to watch something we recorded on the DVR until 8. At 8 we noticed the message "Searching for a satellite signal" on all the tv's. Went outside and the dish is fine, nothing wrong with it. Tried resetting the boxes and nada, same message.
I had same problem last night due to the heavy wet snow accumulating on the dish. I went out and brushed it off and everything was fine again. In my 5+ years of being a customer, only the early season real wet snow causes a problem. I lived in Buffalo the previous 5 years and had very little snow issues with all the snow we got there. Just that pesky heavy wet snow is a problem though.

I've got 2 D12-300's and a HR20-700.

I've had DirecTV for 13 months now and have had far too many problems, having gone through 3 HD-DVR's already. Someone who works for AT&T was telling me they plan on bringing U-Verse here sometime next year, if they offer the same HD channels I get through DirecTV I'm done. Heck if TWC offers the same I'm gone. I hate putting up with this, at least once a month I have a problem now.


Have you tried installing a battery backup on the DVR's? I went through a bunch of cable modems because the power fluctuations were killing them. Todays electronics are very sensitive. a good battery with brown out protection may solve the problem with them dying.

Two of the HD DVR's died because of faulty HD's.

Went and cleaned the dish just to make sure, but nothing was coming off of it. The service came back around 11pm. Thankfully we had the OTA antenna up so we could watch something.

Anbody using Vista MCE (with the TV pack) and an ATI video card and having MAJOR problems with NBC (QAM tuned)? The video is very choppy/jumpy etc. This started a couple weeks ago...

Anyone having problems with WIVT 34.1 OTA? Wife went to watch Brothers & Sisters last night (Sunday the 7th) a little after 10PM and there was no signal. I checked signal strength and it was bouncing from 30s to 0. Usually I get solid 70s with no dropouts.

Anyone else with this problem?

Just tuned in and I'm getting some pixelation, but then this is normal for my location.

Does anyone know the switch to digital in February will mean that Time Warner will be able to broadcast WBNG HD without any kind of agreement between the station and TWC, or will we continue to get crappy SD.

Does anyone know the switch to digital in February will mean that Time Warner will be able to broadcast WBNG HD without any kind of agreement between the station and TWC, or will we continue to get crappy SD.

Sorry, but this will not affect it. It all comes done to the greed of CBS. CBS is insisting that Time Warner should pay for the privilege of airing CBS in HD. Time Warner insists that CBS is making enough money through advertising that Time Warner should not have to pay them an additional fee to air the channel. It should also be noted that Time Warner is not being charge a fee by any of the other local HD stations in order to air them.

Time Warner and CBS have been in negotiations over this issue for close to 2 years without it being resolved. Every once in a while the Binghamton Press prints an article saying they are close to resolving this issue. Unfortunately, I have not heard anything in the last couple months, so I have to assume the deal fell through.

Your only option for CBS in HD is to use an antenna and get it over the air.

From WBNG Website:

"WBNG-DT is currently NOT available on Time Warner Cable or any satellite service."

"The FCC has set the date of February 17th, 2009, as the date for all TV stations in the U.S. to cease their analog broadcasts. As of that date you will be able to receive our digital broadcasts in one of three ways:

1. Over the air on a television with a built-in digital tuner

2. Over the air utilizing a stand-alone digital tuner or converter box

3. Via a cable or satellite service that is re-broadcasting our signal"

So the question is... Is the HDTV signal seperate from the DTV signal? In February, once TWC starts broadcasting WBNG DTV it doesn't necessarily have to include HDTV?

Right, digital doesn't mean HD. I suspect that TWC will just use a 4:3 crop, unless they come to an agreement by 2/17. Don't hold your breath for WBNG HD on TWC.:)

Right, digital doesn't mean HD. I suspect that TWC will just use a 4:3 crop, unless they come to an agreement by 2/17. Don't hold your breath for WBNG HD on TWC.:)

Maybe we'll get it the same year the Bills win the Superbowl:mad:

Sorry, but this will not affect it. It all comes done to the greed of CBS. CBS is insisting that Time Warner should pay for the privilege of airing CBS in HD.
Actually CBS has nothing to do with it. It comes down to WBNG and their parent company, Granite Broadcasting, and how much they want TWC to pay for the right to rebroadcast WBNG's HD signal.

Well my DirecTV service is out again, well most of it. I get all the premium channels, HBO, Cinemax, etc., but can't get anything else. Went out to check the dish and tried getting everything off of it. It looks like I did, but I still can't get channels.

I really wish FiOS was available here.

No problems here. What are your signal strengths?
Did you try a reboot?