Originally posted by Joe3
Why should Lin's WPRI/WNAC be treated differently at our $$ expense?

Why should Lin's WPRI/WNAC be treated differently than Rhode Island's other locals who are not in our pockets?



I agree with this, why were the other locals able to come to an agreement with Cox?
Personally, I couldn't care less about WPRI/WNAC local programming. If Cox could get the CBS and Fox feed elsewhere, I'd be fine with that.

We had a burn out of a section of transmission line this afternoon so we are off the air. We hope to get the replacement line tomorrow afternoon.

Mark

WJAR-DT Off-Air
We had a burn out of a section of transmission line this afternoon so we are off the air. We hope to get the replacement line tomorrow afternoon.

Mark



Thanks for the info Mark, I was curious as to why I could not receive the signal this morning. Please let us know when you are back on-air. Any update on full power?

It is good to have someone who is on inside - and can give us low down with regard to why a particular station is off air. Even in this age of super connectivity - when a station that you normally have been receiving goes south - well not south - but ...like due east - it's just you and your set top box. Kind of comforting for someone who's in the know, to be able to say - burned the framus and it's not that piece of junk you got on E'bay from the guy with the hat - that is causing the problem.
On this local thread - has it been tried listing by general location the range of stations that are being received? We are in the Kingston/South County area of Rhode Island and can list the various over the air digital stations which can reliably be received by us. Regards to all.
Barry

Back up... (7:55p 3-23-05)

Were backup but running at half the power we were before. We had to do some temporary repairs and do not want to burn out anything till we can do the permanent repairs next week. We hope to put the new transmitters on next week at the power we have been running then after some paperwork that we have to file with the FCC is approved then we can get up to our higher power.

Mark

Is the HD out? I'm not getting a signal...

Looks like 10--1 has been off since last evening

Yeoww on the burnout- the compressed nitrogen filled, super expensive line sections? at least they're relatively short :)

Back up...(5:00p 4-1-05)

Hello,

New to HDTV as of today. Bought a 50" Sony LCD, and an UHF/VHF atenna at the suggestion of the Circuit City Rep who told us we could get an additional 5-6 HD local channels.

Got everything set up, did the scan and evidently the antenna "found" 13 digital channels.

Problem is now.....how do we identify which channels it found? We are "newbies" at this, and not sure how to go about locating them. I did find 4 channels randomly, and I *think* they are as follows:

10.1 WJAR
4.1 WBZ
6.1 WLNE
12.1 WPRI

Are there others out there? Rumor has it that FOX is on 64.1 but we get NO SIGNAL at all.

Any assistance would be appreciated. We live on the Prov/Johnston border, near Rt 6, on a hill with little obstruction.

Thanks!

Andrew

Welcome to the forum akomensky.

Threads merged.

Try tunning in channel 54 for Fox DT RI. That is the actually channel it broacasts on. It may remap to 64. John

akomensky,

From where you are, if you are on a hill, you should with any decent antenna get all the Providence and Boston stations. If your TV found 13 digital stations, it seems you have found them. The problem is that they may not be broadcasting the correct PSIP data, and your TV may not "map" them to their usual channel number. There used to be a listing of what actual channel the digitals were broadcast on. Unfortunately, it is probably archived somewhere, and I can't find it. You already have four that I will ignore. These are the ones I remember:

WGBH (channel 2) broadcasts on 19 (two channels with 19.1 being the regular programming and 19.2 being the PBS HD feed, and 19.4 being BBC news). Its "sister" station WGBX (channel 44) broadcasts on 43 with four subchannels.

WCVB (channel 5) broadcasts on 20 (20.1 programming and 20.2 a weather feed)

WHDH (channel 7) broadcasts on 42

WFXT (channel 25) broadcasts on 31

WSBK (channel 38) broadcasts on 39

WLVI (channel 56) broadcasts on 41.

WSBE (channel 36) from RI just started broadcasting digitally, but I don't remember what its actual broadcast channel is.

Another thing to keep in mind is that stations often change what subchannels they are designating. So, WGBH which usually broadcasts on 19.1 sometimes broadcasts on 19.4, 19.5, and 19.6. So you may have to try different numbers to get a picture.

I hope this information helps. You may have to tweak your antenna position to get all these stations. A good place for this information is

www.antennaweb.org

Good luck, and welcome to the world of HDTV.
SMK

Hello all have had a Sony 30xs955 for 6 weeks now i just love it, really has a great picture. I have :mad: cox cable with the cablecard installed but thats another story.
For an antenna i was useing a small uhf/vhf one that sat in the window sill
was getting the locals 6-10-12-64 with good results. This last weekend i got a 25 element fished a pice of cable up there the wall an placed in our attic did a new scan and now get 18 analog and 23 digitals not to bad. Did 2 scans and channel 7 no digital channel was found. anybody else able to get that one its WHDH-DT 7.1 . i get most other boston stations that i want. i haven't spent enough time yet to see how stable the channels from Boston r yet.

I see a wjar tech here can i ask whats up with the dt signal the last few days or is it me?

Originally posted by geevoor
Hello all have had a Sony 30xs955 for 6 weeks now i just love it, really has a great picture. I have :mad: cox cable with the cablecard installed but thats another story.
For an antenna i was useing a small uhf/vhf one that sat in the window sill
was getting the locals 6-10-12-64 with good results. This last weekend i got a 25 element fished a pice of cable up there the wall an placed in our attic did a new scan and now get 18 analog and 23 digitals not to bad. Did 2 scans and channel 7 no digital channel was found. anybody else able to get that one its WHDH-DT 7.1 . i get most other boston stations that i want. i haven't spent enough time yet to see how stable the channels from Boston r yet.

I see a wjar tech here can i ask whats up with the dt signal the last few days or is it me?

What is you problem with our signal we have no problems that I know of?

Mark

Sorry didnt want to alarm u.. i cant get a good lock on the signal strenght meter i am getting ups and downs from 40 to 70 even when i switch back to old rabbit ears i can get 70 percent use to get high 80s here in Pawtucket the other 3 near u i am getting 90s checkhd.com says u and 6 at same degrees. on channel 6 i get a steady 93

Originally posted by geevoor
Sorry didnt want to alarm u.. i cant get a good lock on the signal strenght meter i am getting ups and downs from 40 to 70 even when i switch back to old rabbit ears i can get 70 percent use to get high 80s here in Pawtucket the other 3 near u i am getting 90s checkhd.com says u and 6 at same degrees. on channel 6 i get a steady 93

It sounds to me like you are getting some multi-path of our signal try moving the antenna a bit and see if that improves the signal strength also the trees are now leafing out which will cause more problems with signal. We hope to be increasing our power soon the additional transmitter is in and ready to run but that depends upon receiving FCC approval to turn it on.

Mark

I've been getting really weak WJAR-DT signals on and off...It will be fine for a couple of hours then it will just drop down to like 20...

ps...the other night (monday i think) it didn't go back to the SD feed at 11:00p it was blank for a couple of hours...

Originally posted by RYankowitz
We are not on-air yet. We are still attempting to obtain our building permit from the town of Freetown. Darn close, but it looks like it'll still be a couple of weeks to a month. Once we receive it we'll begin construction, which should take a month to a month and a half (after we round up the crew and materials - a few weeks, perhaps).

With luck (and we've had plenty so far, unfortunately all bad) we might make it by late spring...

(We've had the HDTV transmitter installed and rarin' to go for over a year, so the only work to be done involves beefing up the tower and mounting the digital antenna.)

Robert,

Any update on the progress WLWC-DT? It's the only one left (that I know of) that is not transmitting digitally yet.

Thanks for any info!
-S

Also, is anyone getting any info in their program guide for WSBE-DT 36.1? Its been up for 2 full months and I've yet to get anything show up in my D* receivers programming guide for 36.1. The box has also "rebooted" itself a few times in the past month and rebuilt is channel list but still no program info. In the past when channels have come online it has only taking a few weeks at most.

I have not received any program data either on my HR10-250

Originally posted by sonofjay
Robert,

Any update on the progress WLWC-DT? It's the only one left (that I know of) that is not transmitting digitally yet.

Thanks for any info!
-S
Funny you should ask.

Last week we finally, after a year and a quarter and three hearings, received our building permit from the town of Freetown. We may break ground, so to speak, on the project as early as this coming week. Construction should take a month or two, weather permitting.

Thanks for the update! With the warm weather coming hopefully shouldn't have too many delays.

Hi has anyone experiened any audio problems while watching WJAR 10 in HD on Cox?

I recently began to experience intermittent audio dropout on NBC 10 in HD and the local Providence ABC on COX channels 700 & 702 respectively.

I have had COX tech's comeout and change out my cable card and test the signal, however they couldn't find what was causing the problem.

When we tried the Cox DVR STB tuner, we couldnt duplicate the problem, however when a cable card was used the sound dropout was horrible.

I am suspecting that this may be a COX issue with their hardware, however the tech's told me that WJAR was known to have some sort of audio issue at the TV station.

Thanks.

Hey MDZ,
I get ch 10's Digital here in Ct.
I do notice when they go to what I believe is the network/5.1 feed the audio
when using regular stereo does drop.
Can't say I notice is on Ch6's Digital , I'll try to keep an eye on it and let you
know, hope it helps.

Robert Yankowitz... Why is WLWC side mounted versus top mounted?

Also on an ANALOG note, WLNE's feedline burned out yesterday and the analog 6 is off the air...

Originally posted by TV_TX_Engineer
Robert Yankowitz... Why is WLWC side mounted versus top mounted?

I'm not sure I should answer - TV_TX_Engineer is a very suspicious handle!

When the tower was erected (in 1995) there was considerable community opposition to the project. The townspeople and the town government fought an intense fight to keep it from happening.

After a bruising battle, the courts ruled in favor of the licensee and the 772-foot tower was approved for construction. However, through a bit of miscommunication, the licensee hadn't adequately conveyed to the town that that height only referred to the tower, and not the overall height, including a top-mounted antenna. In the end, they decided it wasn't worth fighting over and went with a side-mount.

Also, since the station is directional, with a 180-degree pattern facing west, a side-mount is not at a disadvantage over a top-mount. The difference in height does not significantly affect coverage.

Thanks for the background, Robert Yankowitz.

From the State that's under a cable broadcast black out of any signal north of Pawtucket.

RYankowitz I was wondering that right before the Redsox game last nite on UPN 38-DT it showed the UPN28 logo and under it it said WLWC-DT logo is this a mistake or is some testing taking place.

Originally posted by roachxp
RYankowitz I was wondering that right before the Redsox game last nite on UPN 38-DT it showed the UPN28 logo and under it it said WLWC-DT logo is this a mistake or is some testing taking place.
It was, to be technical, a boo-boo.

Hi southcoast folks,

We had VOOM and still have the STB which is currently (knock on wood) receiving Providence stations. I'd like to try to get Boston. I think I need to get a bigger antenna (With a preamp???). We are way south in Westport, about two miles from the coast and low elevation. Its flat but low. Can folks comment on their experiences with antennas--what worked and what didn't work. I am assuming the VOOM STB is not software limited to just the Providence stations, but I'm not sure of that either.

Thanks for any advice,

George

To WJAR Engineer...

Do you know when programming data will be available on DT-1

Thanks
Tim

Hey, is it only me but when WLNE-DT is in HD that I always have a black bar across the bottom of my screen?

Anyone else notice that Boston stations seem to have a much better quality signal than the Providence signals. If I compare the picture from the OTA 12.1 from Providence with the OTA 4.1 Boston signal, the picture is much brighter and clearer from the Boston station.

Does anyone else notice this ??


- Ken

Anyone else notice that Boston stations seem to have a much better quality signal than the Providence signals. If I compare the picture from the OTA 12.1 from Providence with the OTA 4.1 Boston signal, the picture is much brighter and clearer from the Boston station.

Does anyone else notice this ??


- Ken
Multicasting screws up some of the Providence stations.

I am having serious multicasting problems with Channel 10.1, and I only live about 10 miles line of sight of the tower, and am using a 4228. No problem with 12.1 or with the Boston channels (except for 7.1). This happened as soon as the leaves filled out. Also WJAR Engineer explained previously that the higher the assigned channel (in WJAR's case 51) the more likely to have the problem.

Hey, is it only me but when WLNE-DT is in HD that I always have a black bar across the bottom of my screen?


I noticed this too...

I am having serious multicasting problems .....


I think you mean multipath problems.

I have found that with a very strong signal, sometimes redirecting the antenna so it is less aimed at the transmitter actually can help multipath by reducing the strength of the multipath signal. I live in Pawtucket. My antenna (a directional VHF/UHF combo from RS) is aimed at the Boston towers. The RI transmitters are about 90 degrees from this direction, but with the strength of the RI signal, I have excellent reception for all RI channels.


SMK

Thanks SMK - will give this a try and yes, of course I meant multpath!!

Can anyone guess what this is?

Bob: Support for HD antenna for wlwc-dt.
Also, will UPN28 -HD be on Comcast in Bristol county?

Bob: Support for HD antenna for wlwc-dt.

Close, but no cigar.

Also, will UPN28 -HD be on Comcast in Bristol county?
I don't have an answer for that, yet.

Can anyone guess what this is?

The irrigation pipe for the transmitter site..... one must keep up appearances!! ;) ;)

I would guess the actual antenna is inside the pipe. When do you think the signal will be on the air? John

I would guess the actual antenna is inside the pipe. When do you think the signal will be on the air? John
Not a bad guess. That is the antenna, all 51 feet of it. The white tube-like surround is a fiberglass radome, for wind resistance and protection against ice build-up. The attached picture shows the antenna in its final home on the tower, just below the analog channel 28 WLWC-TV antenna (in red). That one is about 60 feet long.

We'll be cutting the new antenna into the system Wednesday night, then we'll have a period of technical and program testing. I'll keep you informed as we proceed.

Bob - GREAT pix and good news all at the same time. Thanks for keeping us updated.

I am a litttle suprised to see the antennas on the same side of the tower. The service areas that can be gotten from the FCC site here, http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?call=WLWC show the analog signal to be strongly weakened to the southwest and the digital station only somewhat weakened to the East and South. Doesen't the tower produce a notch in its direction; are the relative field values in error? John

I am a litttle suprised to see the antennas on the same side of the tower. The service areas that can be gotten from the FCC site here, http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?call=WLWC show the analog signal to be strongly weakened to the southwest and the digital station only somewhat weakened to the East and South. Doesen't the tower produce a notch in its direction; are the relative field values in error? John
The relative field plot on the FCC's website for WLWC-TV is in error. The actual main lobe peak is at 278 degrees, just north of due west. For WLWC-DT, the main lobe peak is at 330 degrees, as shown correctly on the FCC's site.

The effect of the tower is taken into consideration during the design of the antennas.

Attached is a photo of the antenna on its way up.

What about Rhode Island and Cox? Will WLWC-DT be on COX in July?

Do they want us to all wear glass because of their bad SD reception

Robert Yankowitz,
Let us know when you light off the transmitter (if you haven't yet). I have been checking channel 22 from time to time with the antenna aimed at channel 28. Tonight I got a perfect picture from WLIW. It seems that almost every digital channel I get has interference from some other analog or digital station on the same channel, some or all of the time. John

Anybody know when WJAR-DT will be at full power?

Anybody know when WJAR-DT will be at full power?

We have been running at full power for about three weeks, this may or may not help with reception hopefully it will help those who did have problems receiving us.

Mark

Thank you!!

That explains a lot.


Tim

We have been running at full power for about three weeks, this may or may not help with reception hopefully it will help those who did have problems receiving us.

Mark

Even though I live fairly close to the Rehobeth site I had major multipathing problems once the leaves came out. The signal strength for the last few weeks has been a solid 94 on my HR10-250. Obviously the increased power has solved my problem. Thanks for the info Mark.

Greetings from a long time lurker / new poster :)

I live in West Glocester and have been thinking about hooking up an antenna for some time, but I'm not sure if the surrounding trees are too tall. Our home is a two story, but the forest around the house is pretty thick with maples and oaks. The only direction that is a little thin is towards Hartford.

I have been to antennaweb, but before I take the next step I was wondering if I would be able to receive Providence & Boston stations with the thick trees.

Does anyone live in a similar setting and/or know of a good antenna that would work out here? I currently have Cox HD, but would love to get more channels.

Thanks,
Chuck

Antenna web provides good information, but the only way to know for sure would be to try it. Unfortunately, that means laying out some money for an antenna and doing the work to run an antenna lead to the TV. Does your TV have a built-in ATSC decoder? If not there would be the additional expense of buying an OTA receiver. Unfortunately, you'd have to purchase all this before you could even know for sure it was going to work.

I would recommend a good medium distance (you're not that far from the towers) directional antenna. Since all current HD stations are broadcasting on UHF, a UHF only antenna would be sufficient. The Channelmaster 4221 UHF antenna, or the bigger version 4228 should probably work well for you.

I am in Pawtucket and in my attic have a RS VHF/UHF antenna. I not only get perfect reception on all RI stations, but I also get perfect reception of all Boston stations. I would expect in Glocester you should at least get the RI stations even being surrounded by trees.

SMK

Not all Providence channels are on UHF. WPRI-DT is on channel 13 which is VHF. An over the air TV signal often has no problem going through trees. It may get a little weaker but does not completly disapear like satellite TV. John

You are correct that WPRI is 13, but being at the extreme end of VHF it is well received with a UHF antenna.

SMK

Hey guys,
Great info in this thread, much appreciated! I live in the East Bay and switched over to Cox a few months ago. now I know they are not the greatest but I came from Full Channel TV which for those who dont know is a small family owned cable company that only services Barrington, Bristol, and Warren. What they offer is an absolute joke, they just dont have the resources. When I first switched to Cox I asked about their HD lineup and was not impressed either. They said they were in negotiations to bring CBS and FOX to HD but it still has not come to fruition. From reading this thread I can see their promises go even further back, and they still have not delivered! I will be making my first HDTV purchase in the next month or so and will definately get one with a built-in tuner. Since I rent a 1st floor I would rather not put an antenna outside, will I be ok with a quality indoor antenna for OTA reception? Can you recommend one?

Any late news on the status of Channel 28-1? I was out of town for awhile and thought it might be on when I got back.

Any late news on the status of Channel 28-1? I was out of town for awhile and thought it might be on when I got back.
Real-soon-now. We had a few installation and testing issues, but we're gaining on it. I'll keep you informed (if you don't catch it on-air first).

Thank you for the information RoyGBiv and ctdish. I should've mentioned that my TV is a JVC HD-61Z786 and does have a built in tuner. I have heard great things about the 4228 here and I think I'll try that. I'm also very glad to read that I might be able to catch WPRI-DT on UHF as CSI is coming up.

Chuck

Real-soon-now. We had a few installation and testing issues, but we're gaining on it. I'll keep you informed (if you don't catch it on-air first).

Thanks Bob - nice that you monitor this forum...

Hey guys,
Great info in this thread, much appreciated! I live in the East Bay and switched over to Cox a few months ago. now I know they are not the greatest but I came from Full Channel TV which for those who dont know is a small family owned cable company that only services Barrington, Bristol, and Warren. What they offer is an absolute joke, they just dont have the resources. When I first switched to Cox I asked about their HD lineup and was not impressed either. They said they were in negotiations to bring CBS and FOX to HD but it still has not come to fruition. From reading this thread I can see their promises go even further back, and they still have not delivered! I will be making my first HDTV purchase in the next month or so and will definately get one with a built-in tuner. Since I rent a 1st floor I would rather not put an antenna outside, will I be ok with a quality indoor antenna for OTA reception? Can you recommend one?


I live in North Kingstown and get all the RI stations on an indoor. Try this one...that is what i have....

http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=CTLG&category%5Fname=CTLG%5F003%5F001%5F001%5F000&product%5Fid=15%2D1880

Hi Guys, I live in Bristol County , Mass. Comcast has added WJAR-DT and dropped WHDH-DT from Boston? Anyone know the cuurent on- air status of UPN28 ? Also, is WPRI and WNAC-DT being carried by Cox cable in Rhode Island. Appears that Comcast will be phasing in Providence/New Bedford HD channels and phasing out Boston HD channels in Bristol County. thanks for the info.

mgpt6,

You have drop out of Boston's top ten broadcast market.

Welcome to Providence's mid 40 broadcast market where we do our crying in the rain.

Anyone know the cuurent on- air status of UPN28?
This should answer your question (see the picture), as of 2:57pm this afternoon. We are still undergoing testing, so our on-air schedule may be spotty.

WLWC coming in LOUD and clear in Pawtucket as of 7:50pm 8/2/05. Volume is very loud. Sound seem to look in sink and picture looks good. hope the rest of your testing goes well....

WLWC coming in LOUD and clear in Pawtucket as of 7:50pm 8/2/05. Volume is very loud. Sound seem to look in sink and picture looks good. hope the rest of your testing goes well....
We paid big money for all those decibels, and we want to use them all!

I noticed we are a bit louder than the other stations (our knobs go up to 11). I'll remedy that tomorrow.

Thanks for the report.

28-1 is strong in Warwick, RI.

Howard

28-1 is choppy in Middletown. I'm using a Dish network 921 for OTA and the signal strength is 75. The signal goes in & out with the dreaded "acquiring signal" message thrown in now and then. Hopefully you're not at full strength yet?!?!

For comparison, the signal strength on WBZ 4-1 is 91

28-1 DT 22 Coming in around 90 signal strength on a Zenith SAT520 in Bridgewater MA.

Hope the Testing goes well

28-1 is coming in perfectly in Pawtucket, and the sound now is the same as the other stations.

I wonder, Rob, if you got those amplifiers from Spinal Tap. Weren't they the band that could play louder than any other band because their amplifiers went up to 11?

Good job in getting the station up and running.

SMK

Interesting. With my Samsung 360 the sound level doesn't seem much different than other stations, but with the HR250 it is louder. Not much different, though.

SMK

I wonder, Rob, if you got those amplifiers from Spinal Tap. Weren't they the band that could play louder than any other band because their amplifiers went up to 11?
SMK
You are correct, sir! Their claim to fame was they were the loudest rock band around.

28-1 is choppy in Middletown. I'm using a Dish network 921 for OTA and the signal strength is 75. The signal goes in & out with the dreaded "acquiring signal" message thrown in now and then. Hopefully you're not at full strength yet?!?!

For comparison, the signal strength on WBZ 4-1 is 91
We are operating at full power.

Is your antenna on a rotor, and have you adjusted it to point to East Freetown?

For comparison, we received an email from a view in Connecticut, happy to receive our DT signal, which is so much better than the snowy analog signal he'd been getting. So, I'd suspect the quality of the signal (i.e.: multipath) you are receiving, rather than the strength of the signal.

Thanks for the reply - It's not on a rotor :( and I have it aimed for the majority of stations (~10 degrees). It's not too hard to manually rotate, so I'll try to move it a little closer to the 68 degrees that antennaweb states and see if the signal gets better without losing my other stations.


We are operating at full power.

Is your antenna on a rotor, and have you adjusted it to point to East Freetown?

For comparison, we received an email from a view in Connecticut, happy to receive our DT signal, which is so much better than the snowy analog signal he'd been getting. So, I'd suspect the quality of the signal (i.e.: multipath) you are receiving, rather than the strength of the signal.

I used to get 10.1 and 6.1 digital over the standard Cox cable feed and could watch them using the OTA tunner on my TV. Those 2 channels now have no signal.

Anyone else notice that the OTA signals are no longer being carried by Cox.


- Ken

We are operating at full power.

Is your antenna on a rotor, and have you adjusted it to point to East Freetown?

For comparison, we received an email from a view in Connecticut, happy to receive our DT signal, which is so much better than the snowy analog signal he'd been getting. So, I'd suspect the quality of the signal (i.e.: multipath) you are receiving, rather than the strength of the signal.


I second that multipath issue...I've been fighting it for years.
I'm in Framingham, MA 9 miles from the Needham towers and get 28-1 with better signal quality readings than than 38-1 because of multipath issues.

Fortunately the newer tuners can handle multipath much better, so you might just be able to the adjust the antenna with a rotor as RYankowitz suggests. (Note: sometimes going 180 degrees out can help by reducing the multipath.)

The second level is to use the multipath-killing/ghost-killing antennas like the Silver Sensor.

And lastly, if all else fails, you can try a variable (aka "voodoo") attenuators to get the multipath below the tuner's "radar" while still giving the tuner enough of the primary signal to lock on to. [It's analogous to radio's early-adopters tuning a crystal radio via the "cat's whisker."]

Has anyone been succesfully receiving guide info for 28-1. I am not getting any guide info on my HD-Tivo (D*). I get all the guide info for other Providence / New Bedford OTA HD stations but none for 28-1. The guide listing for 28-1 just says Regular Schedule with no program info. Any help would be greatly appreceiated.
Thanks!
Darrell

DTV is generally slow to get this data to us - It took a few weeks after 64.1 was on. If you want it go to titantv.com - they have it listed - DTV will follow - might be a while though

Thanks for the tips - I still haven't manually rotated the antenna to check yet - hopefully I'll find some time this weekend...

I second that multipath issue...I've been fighting it for years.
I'm in Framingham, MA 9 miles from the Needham towers and get 28-1 with better signal quality readings than than 38-1 because of multipath issues.

Fortunately the newer tuners can handle multipath much better, so you might just be able to the adjust the antenna with a rotor as RYankowitz suggests. (Note: sometimes going 180 degrees out can help by reducing the multipath.)

The second level is to use the multipath-killing/ghost-killing antennas like the Silver Sensor.

And lastly, if all else fails, you can try a variable (aka "voodoo") attenuators to get the multipath below the tuner's "radar" while still giving the tuner enough of the primary signal to lock on to. [It's analogous to radio's early-adopters tuning a crystal radio via the "cat's whisker."]

Has anyone been succesfully receiving guide info for 28-1. I am not getting any guide info on my HD-Tivo (D*). I get all the guide info for other Providence / New Bedford OTA HD stations but none for 28-1. The guide listing for 28-1 just says Regular Schedule with no program info. Any help would be greatly appreceiated.
Thanks!
Darrell

I'm still not getting program data for WSBE-DT on my HR10-250.

Has anyone been succesfully receiving guide info for 28-1. I am not getting any guide info on my HD-Tivo (D*). I get all the guide info for other Providence / New Bedford OTA HD stations but none for 28-1. The guide listing for 28-1 just says Regular Schedule with no program info. Any help would be greatly appreceiated.
Thanks!
Darrell
We're still a bit in the duct tape and baling wire stage, and the program guide is not yet ready for primetime.

Real-soon-now (but don't hold your breath too long)...

I have had Cox HD for about a year now and think I have been very patient but I really am getting pissed that they still do not have CBS and FOX, it is getting really old, especially with the Pats about to start back up. Hope they get it soon, but i am not holding my breath.

Get a cheap OTA STB (I understand they can be had for $50 or so on ebay), and you will be able to watch both. Probably won't need more than an indoor antenna from West Greenwich, but if necessary you could always put something in your attic.

I left COX a long time because they really pissed me off by taking the Boston stations off cable, and their picture quality really was awfulf. I use an attic antenna and get every Boston and Providence OTA station perfectly. I use DirecTV for the rest. The only thing I miss is NESN in HD. I guess you can't have everything.

SMK

I have an OTA antenna and a tuner but due to to the dense trees around my house I get limited receptiona even with a booster, just gets too frustreating. I am going to try and work with the antenna and find a better postition. If Cox would just add those 2 channels, it would not be an issue. I have to keep the Cox package though because I am too spoiled with the Sox games in HD, that is worth the package right there, add in ESPNHD and it is a sports lovers dream.

Joe

All right, so I'm the newest member of this forum. I don't have the slightest clue about HDTV, besides the basics. Heck, I don't even own an HDTV! But my family does plan on purchasing one in the next few months when we move. As you may expect, I have alot of questions about purchasing. What is the best format to buy (Projection, Plasma, LCD, DLP)? Which service should I subscribe to? As you can see by my location, should I purchase Comcast HDTV? I do want to view Rhode Island stations. Or should I get Tivo. I'm moving to a housing project, so I won't be able to have satallite.

Has anyone been succesfully receiving guide info for 28-1. I am not getting any guide info on my HD-Tivo (D*). I get all the guide info for other Providence / New Bedford OTA HD stations but none for 28-1. The guide listing for 28-1 just says Regular Schedule with no program info. Any help would be greatly appreceiated.
Thanks!
Darrell
The Program Guide for WLWC-DT (28.1) is now up and running.

Thanks, Rob.

Ethan, there are plusses and minuses for both TV type as well as size and type of service. If you can't have satellite, you really are stuck with cable unless you only want OTA. TIVO and Comcast are not exclusive, that is they are not the same thing. Comcast is a cable service, and they provide a "TIVO-like" recorder (for an additional cost) as part of it.

You should read through the sections on TV: plasma/LCD and rear projection in particular, and if you are interested front projection. These will give you lots of information for a good start. Then you have to go looking in as many places as possible for the actual TVs you may be interested in to compare their picture quality, cost, features, and other intangibles. Try to go to different stores and see the pictures under different conditions. Only you can decide what's right for you.

SMK

Thanks for the update Rob!!!

Thanks for the update Rob!!!
Bob.

The Program Guide for WLWC-DT (28.1) is now up and running.

Does anyone with a HR10-250 have the guide data?

Bruce,
I don't have guide data yet on my HR10-250 either.

RYankowitz,
Sorry "Bob"....

Thanks Darrell

Does anyone know the status of the negotiations between LIN and COX? Are we going to be able to get CBS and FOx HD this fall or are we stuck with the same lame excuses that both companies continue to provide to the general public?

Thanks, Rob.

Ethan, there are plusses and minuses for both TV type as well as size and type of service. If you can't have satellite, you really are stuck with cable unless you only want OTA. TIVO and Comcast are not exclusive, that is they are not the same thing. Comcast is a cable service, and they provide a "TIVO-like" recorder (for an additional cost) as part of it.

You should read through the sections on TV: plasma/LCD and rear projection in particular, and if you are interested front projection. These will give you lots of information for a good start. Then you have to go looking in as many places as possible for the actual TVs you may be interested in to compare their picture quality, cost, features, and other intangibles. Try to go to different stores and see the pictures under different conditions. Only you can decide what's right for you.

SMK
Thanks for the info.

The reason I asked about what service I should subscribe to is because I want to view all my Rhode Island channels in HDTV. I don't want to be stuck with just Boston channels because I do want to keep up with the news in my area; Boston hardly covers us, unless it's a major story. I might be screwed for good if I stick with Comcast. Any info on HDTV additions on Comcast; any new locals or sub-channels? I notice that some people that post here subscribe to Tivo and are capable of recieving Rhode Island channels. So my question is, what can I do to recieve Rhode Island HDTV channels in my area, New Bedford?

Ehtan,

If Comcast only gives you locals from Boston or RI, and you want the other (or both) the only way to get around that is to get a separate receive only for OTA signals (such as a Samsung 151, I believe.....a search will get you others), and an antenna to connect to it. That way you can get both Boston and RI OTA signals without either cable or a satellite service.

SMK

Now that I know I'm buying a separate OTA reciever, would I be able to also have a Comcast box too? After all, I would like to still recieve my favorite cable channels.

You can have as many SD or HD inputs as you like. If your TV has more than one input (most TVs now have at least two HD capable inputs and still have 2 or 3 SD inputs), just connect your devices to different inputs and switch between them using the TVs controls. If your TV has only one input, you will need some type of external device to switch between OTA and cable. There are numerous threads on the different types of switching boxes available.

SMK

hey guys, Well I finally took the plunge and have been enjoying my first HDTV(Sony RPLCD KDF-E50A10). It has a built in tuner and I purchased this antenna for OTA reception
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.gsp?product_id=3904681&cat=4536&type=19&dept=3944&path=0%3A3944%3A3964%3A133270%3A4536

Its works ok for some channels, but not so much for others. Fox, Abc, nbc are fine! CBS-HD looks bad. I watched an MLS game(Revolution vs. DC) last night on Boston's WB (56.1) and it looked subpar(although it showed up as 1080i broadcast).
The antenna has 50db gain, I'm not sure what that means or if its a good or bad antenna. Can anyone give me some suggestions on how to go about getting the best OTA solution. For me, outdoor antenna is not an option at this point because I rent a house and its just not convenient and if I can get good results with an indoor setup, It's gravy! I live in the East bay area( Warrren)! Thoughts?

What do you mean by "looks bad" or "subpar?" When you are talking about a digital signal essentially, you get it or you don't. There may be some break up of the signal with blocking or the signal disappearing, etc., but it won't really effect the signal the way an analog signal has ghosts or snow for example. So, if you are getting the signal, the antenna is not the problem.

When you say CBS-HD looks bad, is it that you don't get it or you just are not happy with the way it looks? Same question for the soccer game you watched last night. It was transmitted by 56 digitally at 1080i, but the original signal was just a standard, SD, NTSC 480i signal that was then upconverted and sent digitally. Some of these upconversions look great, but some don't, often depending on the original signal and how it's upconverted. I happened to see a few minutes of that soccer game last night and thought it looked like a typical upconverted SD signal. Even though stations are sending out digital signals, often upconverted to 1080i or 720p, that doesn't mean that the original signal started out that way.

If you are getting a useable signal, it is not the antenna. There are also lots of people who tweak the controls of their TVs for the best possible picture. I believe that the Sony RP LCDs are among those that people are claiming needs a lot of work. If that's what you are talking about, you might want to check the RPTV section.

SMK

Roy,
great input, I appreciate your insight! I have been lurking in the RPTV section for quite some time now and have made some significant improvements in PQ by tweaking the setting based on suggestions and talk in that respective forum! A great help! I am satisfied with the HD picture with the current settings via STB on component! The upconverted signal on 56 makes sense because the PQ was more like SD.
I am receiving CBS-HD(12.1) although the signal sometimes cuts in and out! I was not happy with the way it looked. Picture lacked pop, not sharp, text looked blurry on the edges. In fact it kinda looked like the soccer game, :(.
I have my settings almost identical for OTA(antenna) as I do for STB HD, is this a mistake? Like I said Fox looked good, as well as NBC and ABC.

If the signal sometimes cuts out on 12.1 that is a problem with the signal and antenna. For a local channel it is more likely that this represents a multipath problem not that the signal isn't strong enough. A more directional antenna can often solve this problem.

As to picture quality on channel 12, I think it is among the worst of any digital station for its non-HD images. Where are you in RI? You may be able to pick up the Boston stations (as I and many others do) with an antenna in your attic. A good example for me is Jeopardy. I usually watch it on channel 38 from Boston, and it looks fantastic. On Fridays the Red Sox are on 38, so I watch it on channel 12 from Providence, and it looks awful. It started out as the same NTSC signal. Unfortunately, there is a lot of variation between stations in how their images finally get to your screen and, therefore, what they look like.

I can also see a significant difference in the HD signals on NBC and CBS from Providence versus the NBC and CBS signals in Boston. In my opinion the Boston pictures are significantly better because neither Boston station is showing any subchannels. Both Providence stations are. I can really see it for example with Leno. At the beginning of the show they always zoom around the studio. On Boston's WHDH it looks fine, but it does show some limitations of 1080i. On WJAR it looks awful with all kinds of digital artifacts.

Again, this is not the fault of the antenna.

SMK

I totally agree that the boston stations look better on the whole. After a little adjustment I was able to pull in CBS boston station(I think its WBZ ?) 4.1 on my dial! It looked markedly better than 12.1! I am located Warren, RI. Providence channels(tower) are roughly 10 miles from my location!

Take a look at the New Nielsen DMA Rankings - 2005

Boston at # 5

Providence drops out of the 40's down into 50's

It is not a secert that Rhode Island and parts of MA are locked out of a good market and forced into watching garbage reception from locals who are protected from competion by the FCC at the expense of competion and public good!

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Movement in the Top 50 DMAs

[colo***limegreen]GAINERS

+3 Las Vegas, NV
+2 Columbus, OH
+1 Houston, TX
+1 Tampa, FL
+1 Phoenix, AZ
+1 Portland, OR
+1 Charlotte, NC
+1 West Palm Beach, FL
+1 Harrisburg, PA
+1 Albuquerque, NM
+1 Greensboro, NC
[/color]

[colo***red]LOSERS

-3 Buffalo, NY
-2 Providence, RI
-1 Detroit, MI
-1 Seattle, WA
-1 Minneapolis, MN
-1 Baltimore, MD
-1 Hartford, CT
-1 Milwaukee, WI
-1 Cincinnati, OH
-1 Grand Rapids, MI
-1 Norfolk, VA

Does any know when WPXQ DT channel 17 went on the air? John

Anyone know why was FOX64 was broadcasting the 1pm NFL game in SD and the 4pm in HD yeasterday.

.........

Is WJAR Engineer still around?

Can anyone confirm that WJAR broadcast "Las Vegas" and "Medium" in standard def and not HD last night? (9/26/2005)

Usually, Vegas will start in HD but near the end, when they go into a "news update" the last 10 minutes usually stay in standard def.

I tried watching with Boston's 7-1. The picture is slightly better, but the audio is only 2.0 where WJAR broadcasts 5.1 audio.

Anyone out there have any other observations?

-barn in Swansea-

Is WJAR Engineer still around?

Can anyone confirm that WJAR broadcast "Las Vegas" and "Medium" in standard def and not HD last night? (9/26/2005)

Usually, Vegas will start in HD but near the end, when they go into a "news update" the last 10 minutes usually stay in standard def.

I tried watching with Boston's 7-1. The picture is slightly better, but the audio is only 2.0 where WJAR broadcasts 5.1 audio.

Anyone out there have any other observations?

-barn in Swansea-

We had switching problems last night we are looking into why this happened.

Also WJAR-DT, WLNE-DT & WSBE-DT will be off between the hours of 9AM to 5PM over this week and next depending on weather and schedules we are having tower work done which requires us to shut them down.

Mark

Surface was SD also. I should of recorded the WHDH feed but wanted 5.1. Oh well once WHDH goes O&O 5.1 will come.

We had switching problems last night we are looking into why this happened.

Also WJAR-DT, WLNE-DT & WSBE-DT will be off between the hours of 9AM to 5PM over this week and next depending on weather and schedules we are having tower work done which requires us to shut them down.

Mark


Ah.. Mark! Thank-you for the response! (and for the head's-up on the downtime)

I'll certainly be keeping my "Silver Sensor" pointed in your direction. :)

-Bob-

Anyone got a update with LIN Broadcasting Group? Been wanting to watch the game in HDTV on Cox, but we dont have Fox or CBS yet. Also, last night I saw Fox in the Yahoo TV Guide, does this mean they made some agreement with LIN? Also, if anyone has COX HDTV, is the other HDTV CH's encrpted?

For what's it worth I called Cox just last week to bug them about this. I got elevated a few people until I talked to someone named Hector who said he was going to contact corporate and get an answer. The answer was not good. He mentioned the following.
1. Cox continues to negoiate with Lin regarding CBS and Fox. He said nothing new to report although a resolution was not expected this year.
2. Cox tried a "technology upgrade" (he was unable to be specific) that would enable them to deliver more HD channels and that was unsuccessful. They are going to try again in the begining of 2006.

I don't know how accurate any of that is, I am just reporting what Hector the Cox Customer Service supervisor told me.

This really stinks. I moved down from MA where I had Comcast and 4 more HD channels than Cox has. I really missed all the Friday night Sox games in HD on UPN and it is downright unbearable to watch the new fall programming in SD. I wish Cox would get their act together. I am actually investigating Direct TV but I am not excited about shelling out 500 or so bucks for their HD DVR (although using the TIVO interface would be nice.)

Does anyone else have anything to report?
Is this the only forum to discuss Cox HD in RI?
Are there really that few of us?

This really stinks. I moved down from MA where I had Comcast and 4 more HD channels than Cox has. I really missed all the Friday night Sox games in HD on UPN and it is downright unbearable to watch the new fall programming in SD. I wish Cox would get their act together. I am actually investigating Direct TV but I am not excited about shelling out 500 or so bucks for their HD DVR (although using the TIVO interface would be nice.)

Does anyone else have anything to report?
Is this the only forum to discuss Cox HD in RI?
Are there really that few of us?

I'd tell everyone you had a momentary laps of insanity and try to get back to MA, that's what I’d do if I could.

For what's it worth I called Cox just last week to bug them about this. I got elevated a few people until I talked to someone named Hector who said he was going to contact corporate and get an answer. The answer was not good. He mentioned the following.
1. Cox continues to negoiate with Lin regarding CBS and Fox. He said nothing new to report although a resolution was not expected this year.
2. Cox tried a "technology upgrade" (he was unable to be specific) that would enable them to deliver more HD channels and that was unsuccessful. They are going to try again in the begining of 2006.

I don't know how accurate any of that is, I am just reporting what Hector the Cox Customer Service supervisor told me.

This really stinks. I moved down from MA where I had Comcast and 4 more HD channels than Cox has. I really missed all the Friday night Sox games in HD on UPN and it is downright unbearable to watch the new fall programming in SD. I wish Cox would get their act together. I am actually investigating Direct TV but I am not excited about shelling out 500 or so bucks for their HD DVR (although using the TIVO interface would be nice.)

Does anyone else have anything to report?
Is this the only forum to discuss Cox HD in RI?
Are there really that few of us?

As a EX-COX subscriber, all I can say is to grab an antenna and enjoy ALL the Providence and Boston channels for free, seems like the only way for the time being.


Jim

I would like your opinions on my plans for my home theater. The house is in Cranston, RI and about half way up a hill (pretty good elevation). I am fortunate enough to be able to run wires through the walls as the room is being remodeled (was a "florida" room and now will be the family room). Of course, my girlfriend (soon to be fiancee) wants it to be a clean, contemporary look and not geek heaven (a sentiment I agree with, actually). Here's what I'm planning (don't hold back and feel free to reply to just one of the numbers if you choose)...

1) TV - 50" Panasonic Plasma TH-50PH50U (considered the commercial 50" TH-50PHD8UK but decided I needed the tuner in the consumer model).

2) Cable TV - Cox HD DVR (I've read here that they suck, but we use them for cable & internet - plus the girlfriend won't go for a dish on the roof).

3) Antenna - Channel Master 4228 to be mounted in the attic. Plan on keeping it fixed (aiming it at Boston).

4) Receiver - Pioneer VSX-815K. I like the audio setup features of this receiver.

5) Speakers - Orb Mod2 system. Great reviews, company is a delight to deal with, and visually will be perfect for the room.

6) DVD player - Plan on using my cheap DVD player at first and seeing how the TV's upconversion looks before considering a more expensive model.

As a EX-COX subscriber, all I can say is to grab an antenna and enjoy ALL the Providence and Boston channels for free, seems like the only way for the time being.


Jim

Yeah, definately an option at this point but I still would have no HD DVR functionality that way so I would actually have to be present when my favorite shows in HD are on. Yuck.

I guess I am just asking too much of my HD experience from Cox at this time. :(

Are there any Direct TV HD DVR users in RI kicking around this forum? (Since you are using an OTA to pick up local channels still I believe....but I think you can tie it into your HD DVR) What has your overall experience been? (And yes I searched already.)

Reason we dont have ABC in Connecticut, as well as CBS & Fox in rhode Island....because of a couple cents a day... :mad: Bastards CEOs...

High (def) anxiety: Sunday won't be Super for HDTV

01:00 AM EST on Thursday, February 3, 2005


BY ANDY SMITH
Journal Television Writer



Say you just bought a state-of-the-art, high-definition TV. Naturally, you want to watch the Patriots play Sunday's Super Bowl in crisp, clear high-definition. But you won't be able to get it on Cox cable.

Just as you couldn't get last year's Super Bowl. Or last year's World Series. Or any other high-definition programming on either Channel 12 (WPRI), the local CBS affiliate, or Channel 64, (WNAC) Fox Providence. This year's Super Bowl is on Fox.

The reason is a long-standing squabble between Cox Communications and Providence-based LIN TV, which operates both Channel 12 and Fox Providence.

Cox is blaming LIN. LIN is blaming Cox.

Fans just want to see the game in high-def.

"I know who's being short-changed; it's the consumer," said Ed Ouellette of North Kingstown, who recently bought a high-definition TV.

High-definition is the highest quality of digital television, offering a signal with seven times the clarity of an old-fashioned analog TV.

"It's almost three-dimensional," Ouellette said. "We were watching a special about Anarctica -- it's like you're right there in the snow."

Jay Howell, general manager for Channel 12 and Fox Providence, said he's responded to "60 or 70" complaints from Cox customers since Jan. 1.

The number has grown from last year's Super Bowl, he said, as more people buy high-definition TVs.

(Customers of Comcast in southern Massachusetts can get the Super Bowl in high-definition from the Fox affiliate in Boston. Customers of Full Channel, which serves cable customers in Bristol, Warren and Barrington, will not get the game in high-def).

Cox offers high-definition programming from ABC on Channel 6, NBC on Channel 10, PBS station WGBH, ESPN, Discovery, HBO and Showtime. Local programming on Channels 6 and 10, such as news, does not yet air in high-definition.

"We have reached agreement with all the other broadcast stations in the area," said Cox spokesman John Wolfe. "It's up to LIN if they're going to allow us to carry their high-def signal."

LIN owns 28 stations in 17 markets. Paul Karpowicz, vice-president of television for LIN, said Providence and Norfolk, Va., are the two markets where there is a high-def standoff between his company and Cox.

There are several issues between Cox and LIN. The most obvious one is money.

Karpowicz said LIN's two Rhode Island stations have spent between $3 million and $4 million to provide a high-definition signal.

High-definition programming from CBS and Fox, he said, helps make Cox's cable high-definition service more attractive to consumers.

"We feel that if they are going to get something of value from us, we should get something of value in return," he said.

So LIN is now asking Cox to pay 2 cents a day -- one cent for Channel 12, one for Fox -- for each high-definition customer.

Cox began offering high-definition service to its customers in late 2003. In order to get high-definition cable service, customers must first subscribe to Cox's digital service.

Then, customers lease a box that receives a high-definition signal, for $9.99 a month, about $5 more than a standard digital box.

Cox spokesman Wolfe said the company does not pay "cash for carriage" when it comes to local broadcasters, although it does pay for a variety of other cable channels, such as ESPN.

Wolfe said the cable channels such as ESPN have not been granted licenses from the Federal government that call for them to broadcast their signal free.

He also points out that Cox reached agreements with Channel 6 (WLNE) and Channel 10 (WJAR) that do not involve Cox paying any cash.

Cox, Channel 6 and Channel 10 would not discuss the details of those agreements.

But Howell, the general manager for Channel 12 and Channel 64, said his stations are making their high-definition signals available for free over the air, and anyone with the right kind of equipment can get it.

"We are providing our signal for free to anyone who wants it. That's the most important thing to remember," he said.

High-definition TVs come in two basic configurations. The more expensive models have an HD receiver built into the set. With an antenna, those sets can receive an over-the-air, high-definition signal from Channel 12 or Channel 64.

Then there are less expensive sets called "HDTV ready," which require either a leased high-definition cable box or an external receiver. The receivers sell for between $200 and $400.

But spending more money does not sit well with some consumers who subscribe to Cox. "The answer that I should go out and do something else is not a good answer," Ouellette said.

Cox serves about 300,000 households in the state; about a third of those get digital cable. Cox will not say how many of those subscribe to its high-definition service.

There are some other issues involved in the high-definition faceoff, although LIN and Cox seem closer to agreement with those.

Stations are able to transmit more than one channel on their digital bandwidth. LIN wants Cox to agree to air whatever they ultimately decide to broadcast, while Cox does not want to make an open-ended commitment.

Karpowicz said LIN is open to negotiate with Cox if the cable company objects to anything LIN wants it to carry.

(Cox is broadcasting a local weather channel from Channel 12 as part of its digital service.)

LIN also owns a station in Puerto Rico, WAPA-America, which it is interested in getting into Cox's cable systems. But Karpowicz said LIN is backing off on WAPA, recognizing it is not appropriate for all of Cox's markets.

But LIN feels strongly it should receive compensation if Cox is to get its high-definition signals.

"I don't see anything in the near term that would bring us a lot of hope," Karpowicz said.

Some fans have suggested that Cox and LIN offer Patriots fans a one-time gift, air the Super Bowl in high-definition and then go back to the negotiating table.

Cox is willing. Wolfe, of Cox, pointed out that WFSB in Hartford did that last year.

Karpowicz said LIN has considered the option.

"We've thought about it. But doesn't that just let them off the hook? And then it puts people right back where we started," he said.

These disputes between broadcasters and cable or satellite companies are not restricted to LIN and Cox. The Wall Street Journal reports that EchoStar's Dish Network, the country's second-largest satellite operator, hasn't secured high-definition Super Bowl rights from Fox.

And in Roanoke, Va., Media General, which owns NBC affiliate WSLS, has been unable to reach an agreement with either Cox or Adelphia Communications that would allow the cable companies to carry NBC programming in high-definition.

Cox has over 80% of Rhode Island hooked-up. But evidently, CBS & Fox could care less about how their product comes to market through LIN and as a result I don’t know anyone who is willing to suffer the eye strain in order to watch anything on CBS & Fox.

I understand CBS may have some new shows, but so has NBC and ABC. They have a better picture on Cox. WB & UPN will soon be on Cox in HD as well.

CBS & Fox are the only losers here.

Joe3
The only programming I need from abc is Monday Night Football, as well as the college football...other than that they do suck....I also posted the article to show that they are both at fault( COX & LIN)....

Does the Cablecard feature on many new TVs work with Cox cable?

Joe3
....I also posted the article to show that they are both at fault( COX & LIN)....

Cox and LIN are at fault, but they don’t care. However, CBS and Fox lose viewers because of a bad picture.

For example the networks all have Cop, Law, Hospital shows, more Rhode Islanders are changing to watch the clearer channels that have the best picture. So Lin is damaging their network's product.

Maybe with this new D* super DMA for the Hd locals coming soon people in RI will get Boston HD locals first. So FOX and CBS HD from Boston coming to a D* sub near you. Plus LIN multicasts on both stations the same freakin weather channel what a waste of bandwith.

... Plus LIN multicasts on both stations the same freakin weather channel what a waste of bandwith.

Pin head Weather
Pin heads’ better
Pin head Cox
Pin head Fox
Pin head LIN
Pin head win
Pin heads’ the rest
And CBS
:p

Great thread!
I just came across this yesterday and caught up on four years of HD pain.
I'm in Jamestown, have Cox HD, but am looking to pull the trigger on an antenna to get football in hi-def from CBS and Fox.
My question: How big of an issue are trees in impacting the ability to pull in a signal? I've got a stand of scrub oaks just north of my house, in the way of the Prov and Boston stations. Antennaweb tells me I'll need the largest possible directional antenna when I enter the tree factor and a much smaller one when I do not. From your experience, will I need a 10 foot long or more antenna to get Boston stations, or would a medium sized one suffice?
Thanks,
Tom

Anyone planning on watching this tonight? I used to be a huge hockey fan/player and was pretty bummed about the whole lock-out deal. Can't wait to see what hockey looks like in HD. Will be interesting to see if DLP rainbows show up. I've heard this can be an issue.

I'll be watching but in SD only :mad: Unless CI has the game in HD.

GO HABS GO

Is this game available nationally in HD?

WJAR engineer, is anything being done during the tower work that will affect any of the transmittters' signal strength? John

WJAR engineer, is anything being done during the tower work that will affect any of the transmittters' signal strength? John

Nothing power wise has changed with the tower work the foggy weather the past few days has caused some signal problems on analog 10 I have seen myself. I'm sure up and down the whole band a lot of skip is happening.

Mark

I saw some of the skip. This afternoon I got a hit from a Delaware station. This afternoon I changed my UHF antenna preamp. (as luck would have it while most of the stations were off air) I am geting a better signal now, but the surprising change was to channel 51 which is now flat on my spectrum analyzer where it always had a 15 dB slope across the channel. John

Is this game available nationally in HD?

Nope, only in NewEngland area.

Hi, new to the thread.
I live in Newport and I pick up Fox and CBS with a Samsung receiver and a $30 radio shack indoor antenna. I bought it just before the superbowl last year because I didn't want to miss out on watching the Pat's in HD. Then Cox picked up Fox for one day and I thought that I wasted my money. Well they still don't have Fox or CBS so it looks like I made the right move. Cox really needs to get more HD channels or I might be forced to move on.

Great thread!
I just came across this yesterday and caught up on four years of HD pain.
I'm in Jamestown, have Cox HD, but am looking to pull the trigger on an antenna to get football in hi-def from CBS and Fox.
My question: How big of an issue are trees in impacting the ability to pull in a signal? I've got a stand of scrub oaks just north of my house, in the way of the Prov and Boston stations. Antennaweb tells me I'll need the largest possible directional antenna when I enter the tree factor and a much smaller one when I do not. From your experience, will I need a 10 foot long or more antenna to get Boston stations, or would a medium sized one suffice?
Thanks,
Tom

I think you would have pretty good luck getting the Providence stations with a good UHF antenna (like the Channelmaster 4228 that everyone seems to love). Although WPRI is broadcasting on 13 which is technically VHF, the UHF antennas can get high VHF signals. You might even get away with one mounted in your attic instead of outside. I think it extremely unlikely you would get the Boston stations from Jamestown without a very large and probably amplified antenna. You should definitely get a directional antenna. Luckily everything you want Providence or even Boston wil be in the same general direction. Unfortunately, the only way to know what will happen is to try it. That means getting the antenna and if necessary a digital receiver.

SMK

Are there any Direct TV HD DVR users in RI kicking around this forum? (Since you are using an OTA to pick up local channels still I believe....but I think you can tie it into your HD DVR) What has your overall experience been? (And yes I searched already.)

I think you would have pretty good luck getting the Providence stations with a good UHF antenna (like the Channelmaster 4228 that everyone seems to love). Although WPRI is broadcasting on 13 which is technically VHF, the UHF antennas can get high VHF signals. You might even get away with one mounted in your attic instead of outside. I think it extremely unlikely you would get the Boston stations from Jamestown without a very large and probably amplified antenna. You should definitely get a directional antenna. Luckily everything you want Providence or even Boston wil be in the same general direction. Unfortunately, the only way to know what will happen is to try it. That means getting the antenna and if necessary a digital receiver.

SMK

I'm in Middletown, and have a DISH network 921 receiver with a Radio Shack 15-2152 80-inch antenna (very middle of the road to low end, no amp). All the Providence stations come in with pretty close to the max signal strength on the 921. There are a few trees in the path, but not a lot. I currently hace trouble with Channel 28, most likely because of multipath due to the direction the antenna is pointing - been too lazy to dig the ladder out of the garage to change the angle. Almost all of the Boston stations come through with plenty of signal strength as well, which is the other reason I've been hesitant to rotate the antenna to the east for 28.

RoyGBiv-
Thanks for the reply- I am lucky in that most of the Providence and Boston stations fall within 4 degrees of each other. If the weather clears on Sunday, I'm going to try a mid-sized directional on the roof.
Tom

jimcx-
That's great feedback--it is good to hear that we don't need some 12 foot long monster antenna to get a decent signal down here.
Tom

Could someone check WNAC-DT (FOX) for me? John

I lost the signal around the 5th.
WNAC-DT was one of the strongest signals I received over the air.
Just in time for Baseball playoffs and Sunday Football :mad:

WNAC-DT appears to have an issue with their antenna

I am unable to post the URL

WNAC-DT appears to have an issue with their antenna

I am unable to post the URL

So does WPRI-DT since it's on the same antenna. Good thing I checked for a second I thought they were shuting down power on Sunday's to screw the NFL fans :p

the one thing that I find funny is that I get CBS from Boston really good, but when I tune to get WPRI from Providence, i only get about 20% signal. ummmmm kind of tells that they dont use enough power.......... (I live in Foster, RI).

I found the WNAC power info on their web site, thanks. They are running either 10% or 0 power for the next few days. I am getting nothing here in CT.
Jamesb478, what type of antenna are you using? Keep in mind WPRI-DT is VHF, where all the other stations are UHF. Here WPRI-DT is as strong as any Providence station with nothing from Boston. John

WNAC-DT appears to have an issue with their antenna

I am unable to post the URL

Its a hell of a time to have antenna problems! I was looking forward to Football and Baseball in HD this weekend, but I guess not. I was pissed when I couldnt get a signal at I thought something was wrong with my setup. Good to know is the station.

WNAC-DT appears to have an issue with their antenna

I am unable to post the URL

So we can't get them in HD on Cox and now you can't get them in HD OTA. Way to go LIN!!! I guess maybe it's not worth purchasing a receiver and antenna just for Fox and CBS.

Bummer. :(

Anyone have any contacts at LIN to voice concerns over this whole debacle to? I did find some contact info on their website ...which I apparently can't post the link to yet.... but it's [ lintv d.o.t c.o.m ]

the one thing that I find funny is that I get CBS from Boston really good, but when I tune to get WPRI from Providence, i only get about 20% signal. ummmmm kind of tells that they dont use enough power.......... (I live in Foster, RI).


I live in Seekonk and I normally can't get any watchable signal from WPRI-DT. But, here's the funny part, with WNAC-DT off the air, I'm getting a decent signal for once!

So we can't get them in HD on Cox and now you can't get them in HD OTA. Way to go LIN!!! I guess maybe it's not worth purchasing a receiver and antenna just for Fox and CBS.

Bummer. :(

Anyone have any contacts at LIN to voice concerns over this whole debacle to? I did find some contact info on their website ...which I apparently can't post the link to yet.... but it's [ lintv d.o.t c.o.m ]

This tells it all.

More corporate welfare.

LIN wants to force feed us their garbage through our own legislators.

:confused:

Date posted: 2005-10-07
Public Interest, Multicasting & 'Fee TV'




" Even though DTV public interest obligations and multicast must-carry remain uncertain, broadcasters are forging ahead with multicast initiatives.


CBS intends to launch its first network multicast feed within the next year, according to Marty Franks, executive vice president of CBS Television. "CBS-dot-two," as Franks referred to it, will be a general entertainment channel that "complements the mothership."


"Think of DVD extras," he said.


For example, during the week before the premiere of "Survivor," there might be a "meet the new 'Survivor' participants" type of show. (The network already does a Friday afternoon Internet series featuring "Survivor" rejects.) Franks said to think of it as "part promo, part cutting-room floor."


He said CBS.2 would appear in at least 25 million homes already covered in sealed retransmission deals. Negotiations with affiliates to carry the multicast feed continue, he said.


When asked how CBS rectified doing a multicast with its hardcore advocacy of unmolested HD, Franks said CBS would "bit-starve the multicast during full-motion sports." During regular primetime fare--primarily forensic dramas--the network feels it can spare the 2 to 3 Mbps necessary for CBS.2 without compromising picture quality.


CBS follows NBC into the multicast arena; that network is beaming WeatherPlus to affiliates. PBS is also feeding multicasts to its member stations, and John Lawson, president and CEO of the Association for Public Television Stations said his group would be announcing more new multichannels in the coming week. Rather than rely on must-carry, the APTS cut its own carriage deal with the National Cable and Telecommunications Association earlier this year. That deal kicks in Oct. 11.


On the local level, LIN TV is using its spare bits to carry additional network feeds. Gary Chapman, chief executive of LIN TV, said his company's Indianapolis station, CBS affiliate WISH, is using part of its 6 MHz for Univision, which provides the only Spanish-language news in the market. LIN's CBS affiliate in Ft. Wayne, Ind., is multicasting UPN, he said.


LIN is also involved with USDTV, the over-the-air pay TV model launched by Steve Lindsley in Salt Lake City. Chapman said recouping the company's investment in DTV was part of the motivation.


"Every time we have an earnings release, analysts say, what about that $82 million in stranded capital," he said. "Of all the business plans, this has the most prospects to monetize our investment."


Stations lease bits to USDTV in return for per-subscriber fees, a bit fee and a share of pay-per-view revenue.


"Viewers can go pay $20 for a box and $20 a month for those basic channels," he said. "This provides an opportunity to continue the over-the-air relationship."


Chapman also noted that LIN is running a 24/7 local weather feed in Providence, R.I, but that under current public interest obligations, the station could be forced to interrupt it with three hours of children's programming. Franks said there was a "vast gulf" between what broadcasters and advocacy groups consider to be public interest programming. The FCC has yet to define public interest obligations for digital television, but some carryover of the current analog TV rules is expected."

I was wondering what was going on this weekend. No HD football or baseball from Fox. Is it back up yet?

I live in Seekonk and I normally can't get any watchable signal from WPRI-DT. But, here's the funny part, with WNAC-DT off the air, I'm getting a decent signal for once!

You know now that you mention it, I have gotten the best signal on CBS since FOX went down.

He everyone...I just found this forum....I've always been an AVS reader but never noticed this thread before...it's great and informative. Any way...I just purchsed a Sony KD 34XS955 Direct Tube HDTV with a built in tuner. I live in Providence on Admral Street pretty good elevation right near downtown. I was wondering about my ability to get OTA signal with just an indoor antenna. I live on the top floor and I actually have a crawl space which is actually where the roof is. I could put an intenna in there like I've read some of you doing or I could just get an indoor one for the top of the TV I guess. I'm new to the antenna thing. Does anyone here live in the same area and if so....what are my chances of picking up Boston stations as well as the Providence ones. What kind of antenna do I need and if I need a bigger one can I just put it in the crawl space underneath the roof or do I need to mount it outside. The problem is I'm renting at this place...so I could put the antenna in the crawl space...not sure about on top of roof though. Any suggestions on this as well as a good antenna to get. Doesn't need to be expensive as long as it works good.

Thanks, and I look forward to hearing any advice from all the knowledgable people here.

Any word on when fox will back on air???

Any word on when fox will back on air???

from their website dated 10/7, 3-5 days. as this is day 6, let's give them some slack due to weather

WNAC-DT High-definition is experiencing an antenna malfunction. Crews are en route to make repairs. WNAC-DT will be operating at 10% power. Once crews are on the tower working, we will be off the air. These repairs could take approximately 3-5 days. If repairs are made sooner, we will be back on...
Last Modified 10/7/2005 2:27:41 PM

He everyone...I just found this forum....I've always been an AVS reader but never noticed this thread before...it's great and informative. Any way...I just purchsed a Sony KD 34XS955 Direct Tube HDTV with a built in tuner. I live in Providence on Admral Street pretty good elevation right near downtown. I was wondering about my ability to get OTA signal with just an indoor antenna. I live on the top floor and I actually have a crawl space which is actually where the roof is. I could put an intenna in there like I've read some of you doing or I could just get an indoor one for the top of the TV I guess. I'm new to the antenna thing. Does anyone here live in the same area and if so....what are my chances of picking up Boston stations as well as the Providence ones. What kind of antenna do I need and if I need a bigger one can I just put it in the crawl space underneath the roof or do I need to mount it outside. The problem is I'm renting at this place...so I could put the antenna in the crawl space...not sure about on top of roof though. Any suggestions on this as well as a good antenna to get. Doesn't need to be expensive as long as it works good.

Thanks, and I look forward to hearing any advice from all the knowledgable people here.


It is very likely you will be able to pick up the Providence stations with an indoor antenna. I can't give you a recommendation for one, but there are several relatively inexpensive ones to try. The only way to know is to try one. Since your TV has a built in tuner, it's pretty easy to experiment. If you are willing to put a bigger antenna in your crawl space you should have no problem getting the Boston stations. I am just over the line into Pawtucket. I have used both a Radio Shack uhf/vhf antenna in my attic (I think it's the second largest one they make which I got on sale about 15 years ago for $40) and a Channel Master 4221 uhf antenna, and I get all the Boston and Providence stations perfeclty without amp/rotor/etc with either one. Again, the only way to know is to try.

SMK

Is anyone else experiencing terrible lip sync issues with WJAR's HD feed?

It is noticable w/analog audio, but if I switch to DD 5.1 through my receiver it is horrible. You can even hear a little echo between the analog and digital audio if they both are on.

Every other channel is fine w/both analog and DD audio. I'm receiving it through Comcast in North Attleboro. Never had any similar issues w/WHDH-7 when we used to receive that as our NBC channel.

WJAR also has some really bad issues w/flipping the switch to HD when an HD show comes on. I've noticed that more often than not they forget to do it before the first commercial break of a show, like The Office, or SNL, and then flip it after the show comes back from the first break.

With Cox Cable in RI - the lip sych issues are the same that you are having. Also on WJAR, the last 15 mins of E-Ring ended up in standard def after a commercial break.

Is anyone else experiencing terrible lip sync issues with WJAR's HD feed?

It is noticable w/analog audio, but if I switch to DD 5.1 through my receiver it is horrible. You can even hear a little echo between the analog and digital audio if they both are on.

Every other channel is fine w/both analog and DD audio. I'm receiving it through Comcast in North Attleboro. Never had any similar issues w/WHDH-7 when we used to receive that as our NBC channel.

WJAR also has some really bad issues w/flipping the switch to HD when an HD show comes on. I've noticed that more often than not they forget to do it before the first commercial break of a show, like The Office, or SNL, and then flip it after the show comes back from the first break.

We will look into the DD 5.1 I did not find any problems in our setups for DD 5.1 encoding.
We have found a flaw in our HD switching arrangement here we hope to be able to fix it soon.

Mark

I live in Cumberland and would like to get a single, inexpensive indoor antenna that I can buy locally. Can you buy the Channelmaster locally? That seems to be popular.

Hey thanks for the reply ROYBBIV. I got a RCA indoor antenna to see what channels I would pickup with it. I got most RI stations with the exception of WPRI-DT and FOX-DT...I'm guessing that's due to the problem that they've been having with there antenna...atleast I hope so. I actually picked up WBZ-DT in Boston with the indoor antenna which I'm happy about since I want to be able to watch the Patriots. Hopefully they fix the WPRI and FOX Providence signals soon. By the way...I was looking for a good attic antenna like the Channelmast you suggested....where can I get one...doe any stores in the RI, MA areas carry them....or should I get an attic antenna from Radio Shack....I juts heard that Rat Shack attic antennaa aren't as good. Anyone hear have any names of antenna that they've used and pick up Boston stations with it and where can I buy it. ROYGBIV....would you happen to remember the model # of the Rat Shack antenna you used to pick up Boston stations?

Also...for everyone.....if I get an outdoor antenna and put it in my attic....do I need tobuy a pole and stand it up straight or can I just buy the antenna and lean it against a wall and point it in the right direction and just get a signal that way...or do I need to buy something so that it stands straight up . Sorry for all the questions....I'm just new to the antenna thing. Appreciate the help everyone. This is a cool place.

One more thing....what's a good signal strength. Most of the Providence stations I get have a signal strength in the 80's....the WBV in Boston station is a signal strenth of 70. Is that good....and when will I lose the signal (like if it goes below 50 or something)?

A place commonly mentioned for antennas and similar supplies is Stark Electronics in Worcester. I got the ChannelMaster 4221 at Jabbour electronics in Pawtucket right off exit 29(?) off 95. It was not very expensive. I don't believe they have its bigger cousin the 4228, but in Pawtucket, I was getting perfect signals with the 4221 in my attic on Boston stations. Even though it is only a UHF antenna, it will give perfect reception on WPRI on 13. I already had the RS antenna, and I went back to it because I wanted the VHF feed to a TV that is not HD. I don't remember the model number, but it was the second largest antenna they made, and I am sure that although model numbers may change, the antennas are essentially the same. IIRC, it was abour $40 on sale, and I think it was half off. I just have my antenna laying on the attic joists pointed slightly NE and get perfect reception for both Boston and Providence digital stations.

Signal strength is a little harder to make recommendations about. The problem is that it is measured differently on different receivers. If you are getting in the 70's, and the signal is steady, you really should not have a problem. Besides, the signal will likely go up when the trees lose their leaves.

SMK

I picked up a Radio Shack HD receiver and antenna today. Greaty deal! I'm watching the Patriots game in HD. Simply awesome.

I'm having trouble with the other channels, however. All day, I've been able to pick up nearly every station (except Fox) but the signal jumps all over the place. From the teens to the 90s. It's been so windy. Is that the cause? Or is my powered indoor antenna just too weak? I live on an elevated hill that faces the south, so getting signals from the 140-ish range seems pretty doable, but I do have a lot of trees in the yard to contend with. Any suggestions?

Hey...I'm still having trouble getting Fox on my OTA antenna. I currently have a RCS amplified that rests on top of my TV and I pick up WBZ in Boston and all the other local stations in Providence as well as WHGH in Boston at times also. I still can't get the Digital signal for Fox though. I get the analog signal for 64 fine...but I can't get the digital one. WPRI is fine now...but Fox still is a problem....anyone know why? And do others have the same problem....I live on a very high elevation in Providence.

Thanks

Hey...I'm still having trouble getting Fox on my OTA antenna. I currently have a RCS amplified that rests on top of my TV and I pick up WBZ in Boston and all the other local stations in Providence as well as WHGH in Boston at times also. I still can't get the Digital signal for Fox though. I get the analog signal for 64 fine...but I can't get the digital one. WPRI is fine now...but Fox still is a problem....anyone know why? And do others have the same problem....I live on a very high elevation in Providence.

Thanks

Evidently. Their website last updated 10/18 is still saying 3-5 days...

WNAC-DT High-definition is experiencing an antenna malfunction. Crews are en route to make repairs. WNAC-DT will be operating at 10% power. Once crews are on the tower working, we will be off the air. These repairs could take approximately 3-5 days. Want to...
Last Modified 10/18/2005 9:34:35 AM

From their website now:
"Damage to the tower that broadcasts WNAC-DT was much more severe than we anticipated. A fire has caused substantial damage to core components, but we have crews working 14-16 hours a day to remedy the situation. We will have 30 % power by Saturday (Oct 21) and we will continue to work every day until we are at full power."

Looks like I won't be watching the World Series in HD... at least not this weekend.

New to the forum - I live in Attleboro and have had the Radio Shack STB for about a month. I tried a bunch of different antennas and finally settled on radio shacks 120" uhf/vhf/fm rooftop aimed at Boston . I pick up Boston quite well but can no longer pick up 6,10 or 12 from Providence... anyone else have this issue? They were coming in with rabbit ears befor.

1JAV,
Sounds like you need a rotator. John

New to the forum - I live in Attleboro and have had the Radio Shack STB for about a month. I tried a bunch of different antennas and finally settled on radio shacks 120" uhf/vhf/fm rooftop aimed at Boston . I pick up Boston quite well but can no longer pick up 6,10 or 12 from Providence... anyone else have this issue? They were coming in with rabbit ears befor.

I thought the RI stations were on a tower in South Attleboro according to the FCC page.

I thought the RI stations were on a tower in South Attleboro according to the FCC page.

Not according to antennaweb.org.

I am in Pawtucket and luckily do get the Boston and Providence stations with one antenna fixed in my attic. According to antennaweb, the Boston transmitters are about 30 degrees from my house, and the Providence transmitters are between 111 and 120 degrees, so about at right angles. From South Attleboro I would think it would be a little more extreme.

Re-aiming the antenna might help, though, 1JAV. You are still so close to the Providence transmitters that a little adjusting might get everything as it does for me. I believe the antenna you are using is the same one I am.

SMK

Transmitter for most Providence channels are in Rehobeth, MA.

Some GOOD NEWS from WNAC:

"At 10 AM this morning (Saturday, 10/22) we completed repairs on the WNAC-DT transmitter. We are currently running at 100% power. "

Transmitter for most Providence channels are in Rehobeth, MA.

Some GOOD NEWS from WNAC:

"At 10 AM this morning (Saturday, 10/22) we completed repairs on the WNAC-DT transmitter. We are currently running at 100% power. "

Finally! It was the loss of a local Fox HD broadcast that prompted me to grab a CM 4228 to get 25.1 out of Boston. Didn't want to miss the MLB WS.

No sooner does Fox WNAC 64-1 Providence go back on the air, then I lose Fox WFXT 25.1 Boston. Anyone else?

Transmitter for most Providence channels are in Rehobeth, MA.

Some GOOD NEWS from WNAC:

"At 10 AM this morning (Saturday, 10/22) we completed repairs on the WNAC-DT transmitter. We are currently running at 100% power. "

I am still not receiving a signal from WNAC-DT!! :mad: :mad: I checked periodically most of the day(10/22) and NOTHING! This is extemely bad timing with the WS starting up! Anyone getting 64.1 WNAC-DT at this time?

Transmitter for most Providence channels are in Rehobeth, MA.

Yep, they're in Rehoboth. Right off of Pine St. I drive by them all the time, and can see them from my front yard. :)

Yep, they're in Rehoboth. Right off of Pine St. I drive by them all the time, and can see them from my front yard. :)

Is the WNAC-DT transmitter there? If so are crews done working on it? Are you getting 64.1 OTA??

I was getting it fine here on the cape last night - try rescanning for channels and see if that works

I am still not receiving a signal from WNAC-DT!! :mad: :mad: I checked periodically most of the day(10/22) and NOTHING! This is extemely bad timing with the WS starting up! Anyone getting 64.1 WNAC-DT at this time?

I had it last night for the WS game in 720p DD5.1.

[QUOTE=JoeBloggz]Is the WNAC-DT transmitter there? If so are crews done working on it? Are you getting 64.1 OTA??[/QUOTE
Also comming in as strong as ever in Mystic, CT. Received it all day yesterday and right now looks good. John

Thanks for the replies guys... didn't go online over the weekend - sorry for the delay.

To answer some of the questions:

Rotor - trying to avoid them because I don't want to adjust while channel surfing.
Adjusting aim - tried to split the difference but prov. channels won't scan in. I haven't tried aiming at Prov/rehoboth directly but will, to see if I pick them up.

I called the antenna MFG and inquired about my situation. They think the backside of the antenna should pick up the signal becuase I'm so close (4.4 miles). They think the signal is too strong and want me to try an attenuator. Again, I will try it but i think it will likely hurt Boston reception. It seems couter-intuitive to me in the digital world to have too much signal but I honestly don't know.

Any thoughts?

A signal can be too strong but not useable if there is multipath involved. If you have a very strong signal, reflections of that signal from tall structures could be picked up by the antenna. These signals would be out of phase with the initial signal. In the analog world this results in ghosting. In the digital world this results in cancellation of the signal and a low or non-existent meter reading. One way to see if this is the problem is to tune the analog version of a Providence station using the current antenna. If the analog signal shows a lot of ghosting, multipath may be the culprit. In some cases of multipath using an attenuator may help, but the better fix is to re-aim the antenna. Re-aiming gives the best chance of getting a signal because you can diminish the amount of reflected signal the antenna picks up.

SMK

RoyGBiv,


thank you - that makes allot of sense. I currently have the antenna signal split and feeding both my digital STB and an analog set in the bedroom. I do get the Providence channels on the analog set but the reception is poor. I would say that there is ghosting in the analog picture but that set is rarely used and picture quality is always poor so I never "connected the dots".

I wonder if my antenna placement as well as azimuth could be contributing to a multipath problem? I mounted it to an existing mast that was originally used for a satalite dish. This placed the antenna half over the house and not very high above the roof line (perhaps only 24") at the ridgeline. I could try re-aiming but would it be worth raising the antenna as well?

Yep, they're in Rehoboth. Right off of Pine St. I drive by them all the time, and can see them from my front yard. :)

I was close, 1 mile off. I google the area and used the satelite image to see them.

I was able to get both World Series games in HD this weekend in Newport. They fixed the antenna just in time.

Why is it that last night on Prison Beak the show didn't fill up the entire widescreen on my TV like most shows filmed in High Def. I got black bars on the left and right side of my TV. Does this happen for everyone else. Is it a problem with channell 64.1 in Providence. Did anyone else have this problem last night? Do some shows not use cameras that allow for this to happen. I notice this on some other shows filmed in High def as well....like all the shows on UPN like Everybody Hates Chris. Can someone please explain.

Why is it that last night on Prison Beak the show didn't fill up the entire widescreen on my TV like most shows filmed in High Def. I got black bars on the left and right side of my TV. Does this happen for everyone else. Is it a problem with channell 64.1 in Providence. Did anyone else have this problem last night? Do some shows not use cameras that allow for this to happen. I notice this on some other shows filmed in High def as well....like all the shows on UPN like Everybody Hates Chris. Can someone please explain.

I've watched the UPN show in the past and seen it in full 16x9. The black bars on the side may just be local affiliate forgetting to flip the switch for HD. Last night ABC's MNF braodcast started in 4:3 with bars on the side on one of the local affiliates. I switched to a different ABC affiliate and had it in full 16x9.

HD programming should completely fill a 16:9 screen. As Toenail said, there are some times that it just doesn't happen. First, some episodes may not be transmitted by the parent company (i.e. Fox) in HD due to technical problems. Second, there may be reception problems at the local affiliate (i.e. channel 64 in Providence), which requires them to use the SD feed of the same program instead. Three, there really is a person who has to "flip the switch" to make sure the HD programming is transmitted. It really does happen that someone falls asleep at the switch as it were, and the SD program is sent instead. This is another good reason to have your own antenna and be able to get both Providence and Boston stations. You can switch from one to the other when these things happen. I've seen this happen a number of times with NFL football. One station, Providence or Boston will be showing the game in HD, while the other is in SD. It isn't always the Providence station that's showing the SD version, by the way.

SMK

Thanks for the answer guys.

Forgive my ignorance, but aren't we (or if not when will we be) at the point where the "switch" is automated?

It's getting more and mroe frequent and annoying lately esp. with late shows like Saturday Night Live. I'm tempted to switch the DVR to record the SD broadcast because at least I won't be annoyed everytime they forget to switch back to HD after a commercial. Although the same thing happens w/other shows like West Wing all the time, so maybe it has nothing to do w/the time.

Forgive my ignorance, but aren't we (or if not when will we be) at the point where the "switch" is automated?

It's getting more and mroe frequent and annoying lately esp. with late shows like Saturday Night Live. I'm tempted to switch the DVR to record the SD broadcast because at least I won't be annoyed everytime they forget to switch back to HD after a commercial. Although the same thing happens w/other shows like West Wing all the time, so maybe it has nothing to do w/the time.

I've read postings by those in the know that indicate it's not as simple as it may seem to toggle back and forth for SD commercials. It seems that there are plenty of growing pains associated with HD and that is the price we pay for jumping into the technology in it's early stages. Hopefully time will improve these things.

I'm one of the "lucky ones" who lives in Bristol County MA...This means I am in the Providence DMA, and hence I do not recieve UPN 38 HD...Any plans for the Prov market to pick that up?


Also, is channel 750 - NBC Weather+ an HD channel? Someone from Comcast told me it was, but I am skeptical.

With an antenna, you may well receive Boston. John

I'm one of the "lucky ones" who lives in Bristol County MA...This means I am in the Providence DMA, and hence I do not recieve UPN 38 HD...Any plans for the Prov market to pick that up?


Also, is channel 750 - NBC Weather+ an HD channel? Someone from Comcast told me it was, but I am skeptical.

I'm in the Providence DMA 30+ miles from the Boston towers and get all the Boston HD broadcasts, including two versions of UPN HD. Try CM 4228 antenna. Works wonders.

NBC weather + is digital, not HD. In Providence DMA it can be seen on cnannel 10-2 OTA.

Hello, My name is Robert, and I live in Westport, MA within 3 miles of Tiverton/Little Compton RI. Since I'm tired of waiting for any quality HD to come from DIRECTV or Charter Cable, I purchased a DB4 UHF OTA from Antennas Direct. I was told this antenna was very useful in my area. After installing the antenna on a 5-foot mast, I find that my DIRECTV H10 receiver recognizes about 11 channels, but I cannot get enough signal on about 1/2 of these to make them watchable.

I get strongest signal (93%) from WPRI-DT and their SD Weather channel. WJAR 10, WGBH 2, WSBE 36 and WNAC 64 all tend to come in around 60% to 77%. I don't get WLNE 6 and thought that strange until I read an earlier post that their DT signal is coming from Rehoboth and not Tiverton. AntennaWeb, lists 6.1 as being about 5 miles from my home, which would mean Tiverton, so some of the CEA data is clearly incorrect.

The folks at Antennas Direct think I have a problem called multi-path, but admittedly, I don't really understand that beyond the basic reference of interference from other stations or objects. Occasionally I see some increases in interference when using my Wireless-B network. Does that make any sense?

I'm wondering if anyone might have any suggestions for pulling in more signal. If I get WGBH 2 (PBS) from Boston, then why am I unable to get WFXT 25, WSBK 38, WGBX 44 or WLVI 56 all from the Boston area. Could it be that these other stations aren't transmitting at full-power? Would an amplifier or pre-amp correct this? Do I need a longer antenna mast? Is the DIRECTV H10 tuner capability just not enough. Maybe a Samsung OTA HD Tuner? So many options and all of this is getting to be a bit too much for a do-it-yourself project.

I remember when I was a kid, we used to have a Channel Master VHF/UHF antenna with rotor on our roof. It was probably higher up than what I have now. It was decent at pulling in signal from what I recall. Maybe I need to approach the OTA HD issue from the same point-of-view and get a professional installer to fix my problems. I was looking to save money, but at this point, I'm hoping just to break even.

Any advice/suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
~Robert

.........

...Anyway, it be nice if we could get CBS and Fox.

Yea, it would nice if we were the CEO's and had a broadcast license to say, "Stick-um up"

Was just looking at online listings and see that WNAC (Fox) was listed in the HD section... Does this mean they finally came to some agreement? Also, why hasnt they come to some agreement, I read on other sites because of full power for broadcasting, but I know that the tower is at full power. Anyway, it be nice if we could get CBS and Fox.

Which online listings are you referring to? Did who come to an agreement?

Both CBS (WPRI) and Fox (WNAC) are available in HD in the Providence DMA via OTA signal, and have been for quite some time. In fact the Boston DMA towers for both CBS (WBZ) and Fox (WFXT) can be picked up in the Providence market as well.

..............

I was looking at the Yahoo.com Listings for Cox Digital (Cranston). I just saw WNAC in the listings, but I dont see WNAC when I scan for new channels. Anyway, guess ill have to use OTA for now till the greedy LIN Broadcastings comes to a agreement.

Now I understand what you meant. Cox offers WNAC and WPRI as part of their cable service, just not the HD versions. OTA is the only way to go for the time being.

Lin (sp?) would have you believe Cox is stingy. Cox would have you believe Lin is greedy. Take your pick. Cox is also missing TNTHD, FXHD, ESPN2HD and others. Maybe someday. My emails have generated nothing but bland form-letter replies claiming no knowledge of what may or may not be coming for new HD channel options.

Is there any way to get FSN-HD(Celtics games). Cable, OTA?? I know Cox doesn't carry it but can it be had via OTA? Cox is really falling short when it comes to HD programming!

..............

COX will add channels, only when they realize the Verizon TV takes away 50% of there customers and they are filing for bankrupcy :p

Hello, My name is Robert, and I live in Westport, MA within 3 miles of Tiverton/Little Compton RI. Since I'm tired of waiting for any quality HD to come from DIRECTV or Charter Cable, I purchased a DB4 UHF OTA from Antennas Direct. I was told this antenna was very useful in my area. After installing the antenna on a 5-foot mast, I find that my DIRECTV H10 receiver recognizes about 11 channels, but I cannot get enough signal on about 1/2 of these to make them watchable.

I get strongest signal (93%) from WPRI-DT and their SD Weather channel. WJAR 10, WGBH 2, WSBE 36 and WNAC 64 all tend to come in around 60% to 77%. I don't get WLNE 6 and thought that strange until I read an earlier post that their DT signal is coming from Rehoboth and not Tiverton. AntennaWeb, lists 6.1 as being about 5 miles from my home, which would mean Tiverton, so some of the CEA data is clearly incorrect.
~Robert

Robert,
It wouldn't surprise me if we live in the same neighborhood. I just got the H10 and threw up an old UHF bowtie antenna in the attic space above the garage. It is pointed north, approximately. It picks up 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12, 25, 28, 36, 64, and 69 perfectly. It was getting more channels before I started playing with it, but some were breaking up, such as 44 and 68. Anyway, my advice would be to try changing the direction and attitude (try pointing it up about 5 degrees from horizontal) and see if that doesn't help.

Woke up this morning and Cox now has TNTHD

COX will add channels, only when they realize the Verizon TV takes away 50% of there customers and they are filing for bankrupcy :p


So when do you think Cox is having its yard sale?

:)

I noticed TNT HD this morning also. It's channel 714. They were showing NYPD blue and it didn't look all that good. I immediately checked for Fox and CBS but of course those still weren't there.

Yea, I looked through their listings for the entire day and every show had the hdtv indicator. I agree with you though, it did not have the greatest quality in the world. Maybe the primetime stuff will be better.

It looks like they will be showing Saving Private Ryan tonight at 8pm. That will be a good test.

TNT upconverts and stretches the SD stuff to fill the screen so you will loose out on
picture quality but native HD stuff looks good.
The Nascar races they carry are great, may even a little better than NBC's HD !

It looks like they will be showing Saving Private Ryan tonight at 8pm. That will be a good test.

I watched the first hour of Saving Private Ryan tonight on THT-HD. For the most part, I thought the picture was fantastic. That opening scene(storming the beach) really packed a punch. It has been awhile since I had seen SPR but the opening sequence sent shiver down my spine(OMG :D ). There was one portion when Tom Hanks recuits the kid for translating purposes, where the feed seemed "jumpy". It is bothersome when watching, its like the camera is "skipping". I taped it on the DVR. I'll have to go back and see how the rest of the movie looked.

Nice to see some progress being made. Now if we could get Fox, CBS, FX, ESPN2......

I'm interested to see how the NBA games look tonight on TNT HD. According to www.hdsportsguide.com they are broadcasting in 1080i. I find that sporting events look much better in 720p.

I did get a chance to check out their version of "stretchy-vision" SD. Though I'm not a fan of distorted images, they do a respectable job of it. I also DVR'd Saving Private Ryan and have only been able to catch the first 10 minutes or so. PQ seems pretty good, though I've not seen the movie before and am not sure how much softness/grain was originally intended, to show period accuracy. Hand held camera shots with mucho jostling were a bit tough on the noggin though. It used to bug me on my 32". Now on my 52" from the same distance, scenes like the opening of SPR make me a bit dizzy. I couldn't imagine watching that in a dark, full size movie theater.

WJAR Engineer,

Is DT-2 WX+ out? I'm getting a simulcast of DT-1.

WJAR Engineer,

Is DT-2 WX+ out? I'm getting a simulcast of DT-1.

Working fine at the station you may have to do a re-scan.

Mark

Does anyone here know if the cox dvr that they provide has hdmi? or is just dvi?

The dvr box I have only has a DVI connection.

Does anyone here know if the cox dvr that they provide has hdmi? or is just dvi?

I just got a DVR (Motorolla 6412 Phase III) box from COX and have it connected to my TV via HDMI. I've heard the boxes come with HDMI disabled, but mine works.

Note that there is a bug that forces the DVR into PCM digital audio mode (instead of dolby digital) when using the HDMI. There's a thread in the general DVR section on the issue.

I just got a DVR (Motorolla 6412 Phase III) box from COX and have it connected to my TV via HDMI. I've heard the boxes come with HDMI disabled, but mine works.

Note that there is a bug that forces the DVR into PCM digital audio mode (instead of dolby digital) when using the HDMI. There's a thread in the general DVR section on the issue.
hmm, I guess Ill just wait til we get our dvr. I dont want to order an hdmi cable then realize I needed an hdmi to dvi cable..Hopefully I get a dvr like yours though.

.............

I spoke with someone two weeks ago who is supposedly involved with FIOS at Verizon. According to him they are wiring Warwick, E. Greenwich, West Warwick and Coventry first and are almost completed with those communities. He says they are moving very fast in each of those areas. They expect the entire state to be wired by the end of 2007. The question he did not have an answer for was when they would begin video distribution over FIOS and evidently the biggest question with that is whether the PUC and communities will give them a license to do so over COX's objections.

I too am sick of COX's bull**** so ten years ago I went with DirecTV and have never looked back. OTOH, I am not happy with how slowly DirecTV is rolling out HD, and I am not happy with the prospect of putting an even bigger dish on my house. So in my mind it's a race. If FIOS shows up before DirecTV requires me to switch to MPEG4 for new programming, I will definitely switch to Verizon.

SMK

........

Do yourself a favor, if you are putting up a roof top antenna to finally get the games in Hi-def point your antenna to WBZ CBS Boston. WPRI on atleast a half dozen games this season has had tech issues during the game. I don't know if the engineer there was picked on by football players in school but it always seems to be during the Football games they have an encoding problem or signal issue. All issues were confirmed on the stations end by phone calls to the station when they occured. If they want cox to pay for the signal they better step up and update their gear or employee someone who knows how to maintain/operate the equipment to keep it on the air and streaming without errors.

.............

I'll add that it *seems* like I get better signal for most networks from the Boston towers 40 miles away than I do from the Providence towers 10 miles away. Not sure what causes this.

I'll add that it *seems* like I get better signal for most networks from the Boston towers 40 miles away than I do from the Providence towers 10 miles away. Not sure what causes this.

How about greed, arrogance, and stupidity?

One reason the picture is better from Boston is that they are not sending out multiple programs ("multicasting"). Remember, digital pictures are either there or they aren't. Digital artifacts don't look like snow or picture degradation. That comes from signal compression, which the locals in Providence have to do more of if they are going to send you 24 hour weather and news. Who cares about those things?

It is my understanding that Cox can't provide the Boston network feeds to Providence due to FCC regulations. It has to do with DMA and protecting locals from unfair competition. Now to me it seems that there should be some competition if they are getting free use of the airways, but that's just my opinion. Of course, if you have an antenna and are capable of getting the Boston stations, there's nothing that the Providence station can do to prevent that. I believe that the only Boston station Cox shows is WGBH, and there is some special arrangement that that allows that to happen.

SMK

The cable company's are required to provide the DMA affiliates based on where you live due to federal regulations. If you live in Rhode Island the Providence/Newbedford market is going to be provided. This means the station runs on a budget that's equivalent to being in 51st place when it comes to ad dollars. This means they have to subsidize the cost of HD Broadcasting with sub-channels (AKA Band-Width eaters) that degrades the picture quality (you see hanging pixels when something moves fast across the screen) and some are trying to bill the cable company's for the signal. Now Boston would rate in 5th place when it comes to ad dollars. More money = better gear and no sub-carriers = better picture. Make sense?

It's funny because the federal DMA regulation was the large cable company's approach to putting the satellite providers out of the major network business and keeping their market share. Guess they never thought compression would advance enough to allow them to carry over 200 markets in just under 10 years.

Botton Line is we are caught between quick deregulation in the 90's and the slow process of fair competition getting into the market. I just hope that what occurred at my house on Sunday watching football on WPRI does not happen at too many other football parties because at least 3 of my buddies have postponed the High-def set until things clear up in providence.(no pun intended)

The cable company's are required to provide the DMA affiliates based on where you live due to federal regulations. If you live in Rhode Island the Providence/Newbedford market is going to be provided. This means the station runs on a budget that's equivalent to being in 51st place when it comes to ad dollars. This means they have to subsidize the cost of HD Broadcasting with sub-channels..."

You got to be kidding! The Ceo's of Lin Broadcast WPRI/WNAC are in the top ten highest paid CEO's in Rhode Island.

Hi Gang. I live in North Providence. I just pulled the trigger and ordered my first HDTV (panny th-42phd8uk plasma). It's being delivered next week. So now I'm starting to dig deeper into understanding all of the (or lack thereof) programming options available to me.

Currently I'm a DirecTV subscriber. I use a SD DirecTivo and am pretty happy with it...although it has its occasional issues - weather interruptions, etc. But I really like the Tivo interface and have been a Tivo user since 1st gen.

So for my HD and SD programming, should I...

- Go with DirecTV and get the HR10-250 and be happy with that and use OTA for all my local HD programming (Patriots being the most important, RedSox too)
- Go with Cox
-Try out Dish and the 942 receiver so I can have Voom also (a bonus here is there is a PPV program exclusively on Dish that we'd like to watch)

Just trying to get a feel for the general thought on HD programming in RI.
I'm aware of Verizon FIOS coming but I'm looking to make a decision now.

Any input is appreciated!

-----------------
EDIT: I think I may have just made my decision easier...is it true that NESN-HD is only available on Cox in RI?

You got to be kidding! The Ceo's of Lin Broadcast WPRI/WNAC are in the top ten highest paid CEO's in Rhode Island.

Please... Let me school you. As I said LOW BUDGET.
___________________________________________________________

WBZ TV CBS 4 = Viacom Television Stations Group
Owns and operates 40 TV stations in the U.S.
Reach: 15 of the Top 20 TV Markets in the U.S.

Mr. Sumner M. Redstone , 81
Chairman, Chief Exec. Officer and Chairman of Special Committee Pay:$ 21.47M Exercised: $ 6.74M

Enterprise Value (15-Dec-05) 63.33 Billion
___________________________________________________________

WPRI/WNAC = Twenty-three television stations including two under local marketing agreements, two low-power networks, and has investments in five others stations.

Gary R. Chapman , 61
Chairman, Chief Exec. Officer and Pres: Pay: $ 1.44M $ Exercised: 1.10M

Enterprise Value (15-Dec-05) 1.38 Billion

NESN HD on Cox is not full time and any games carried on UPN 38 will be blacked out (Friday Night Games) and 38/S or HD is NOT carried by Cox RI. You'll be stuck watching NESN standard for those games. The good news is you can more than likely get 38 HD with a roof top antenna pointed NNE.

As far as Pro Football games on CBS or Fox the only option in RI is OTA. Long-Term.

Hope This Helps ........

NESN HD on Cox is not full time and any games carried on UPN 38 will be blacked out (Friday Night Games) and 38/S or HD is NOT carried by Cox RI. You'll be stuck watching NESN standard for those games. The good news is you can more than likely get 38 HD with a roof top antenna pointed NNE.

As far as Pro Football games on CBS or Fox the only option in RI is OTA. Long-Term.

Hope This Helps ........

Thanks Steve. Can you explain what a part-time NESN-HD consists of? I understand that all Red Sox Home games are in HD. And from what you're saying, that statement gets rewritten to "All Red Sox Home games that don't fall on a Friday" night are in NESN-HD, correct?

Are there further limitations to NESN-HD on Cox?

Thanks a bunch!

Thanks Steve. Can you explain what a part-time NESN-HD consists of? I understand that all Red Sox Home games are in HD. And from what you're saying, that statement gets rewritten to "All Red Sox Home games that don't fall on a Friday" night are in NESN-HD, correct?

Are there further limitations to NESN-HD on Cox?

Thanks a bunch!

No Problem. Currently the Channel is 713 on their lineup which is a network called "IN-HD2" (24-7 High Def programming). They switch that channel to NESN- HD at the start of a covered game and switch it back to IN-HD2 when its finished. So to say you get NESN-HD with COX could be misleading if you anticipate it 24-7.

I watched most Mon-Thu and some Sat and Sun Sox games in HI-Def on that channel without a problem this season. Just don't invite your buddies over on Friday night to show off that new set during baseball season. No matter your choice a roof top antenna and set with an HD-Tuner is a must. Also, be sure that you shop for a set that is cable-card compatible. The picture difference is unbelievable for both standard and
hi-def and it's only $1.49 mo to rent.

The quest for the most HD programming choices is a tricky one.

No Problem. Currently the Channel is 713 on their lineup which is a network called "IN-HD2" (24-7 High Def programming). They switch that channel to NESN- HD at the start of a covered game and switch it back to IN-HD2 when its finished. So to say you get NESN-HD with COX could be misleading if you anticipate it 24-7.

I watched most Mon-Thu and some Sat and Sun Sox games in HI-Def on that channel without a problem this season. Just don't invite your buddies over on Friday night to show off that new set during baseball season. No matter your choice a roof top antenna and set with an HD-Tuner is a must. Also, be sure that you shop for a set that is cable-card compatible. The picture difference is unbelievable for both standard and
hi-def and it's only $1.49 mo to rent.

The quest for the most HD programming choices is a tricky one.

Thanks again. I'm not going cable card as I'm going with the commercial Panasonic 42" plasma for various other reasons....PQ, styling, blade expandability, etc. Was planning to just use the cox dvr/hd box, VOD services and hdmi or component.

Thanks Steve. Can you explain what a part-time NESN-HD consists of? I understand that all Red Sox Home games are in HD. And from what you're saying, that statement gets rewritten to "All Red Sox Home games that don't fall on a Friday" night are in NESN-HD, correct?

Are there further limitations to NESN-HD on Cox?

Thanks a bunch!

Ditto what steve said. All you need to know is that the NESN home games (except Fri night) all are available on the IHND2 channel and that away games in stadiums with HD set-up are often also shown in HD on the INHD2 channel. Also, I get UPN easily OTA in HD from Cranston to allow for the Friday night home games. Trust me, there's plenty of Sox to go around in the summer. Also nice to watch the Bruins and they have similar home/away arrangement on INHD2.

:D
:confused:
:)))))))))
:eek:

Did you have something of substance to add?

Most of the equipment has arrived for CBS in 5.1, I hope to have it on the air in 3 or 4 weeks when the rest of the equipment comes in.

bill
Having Comcast, I don't use my antenna a great deal but I happened to switch over this evening and noticed WPRIDT is now broadcasting in 5.1. Apparently WPRI leaves the 5.1 on 24/7. Does anyone know when they started this? Just curious.

Is the Tonight Show in HD tonight? I checked NBC.com and it is listed in HD. Is anyone else having the problem of not receiving this show in HD? I am watching the show via cable on Cox in RI (WJAR).

It was on in HD from WHDH in Boston.

SMK

Is the Tonight Show in HD tonight? I checked NBC.com and it is listed in HD. Is anyone else having the problem of not receiving this show in HD? I am watching the show via cable on Cox in RI (WJAR).

It's in HD when viewed OTA - I have a Dish Network 921 w/OTA tuner. Make sure you are viewing the HD version of WJAR on Cox.

Who do you all recommend for a local RI company that sells and installs outdoor rooftop antennas? I'm not interested in climbing my 70 deg pitch roof.

Is the Tonight Show in HD tonight? I checked NBC.com and it is listed in HD. Is anyone else having the problem of not receiving this show in HD? I am watching the show via cable on Cox in RI (WJAR).

I've always seen it in HD on both Cox channel 700 and OTA channel 10-1. Alternatively, with a decent antenna you can pick up 7-1 from the Boston market.

Anyone else in the North Providence vicinity? I'm wondering if a directional antenna is needed or not. Needham and Rehoboth are kind of in seperate directions from here.

Noiseykid,

I have a Radio Shack antenna lying on the rafters in my attic. It is pointing just east of the Needham towers. I get all of them perfectly and all the RI stations perfectly with no rotor, etc. I am not sure you need to go putting an antenna up on the roof if you have access to your attic. With a 70 degree pitch you should have plenty or room to put an antenna in there. Then, of course, you need a way to run the cable to the rooms you want to use TVs in.

SMK

I just did a channel scan on my FusionHDTV Card and now Im picking up a new HDTV Channel which is WCVB (Boston ABC HDTV). Picking it up as D51 on the tuner. Is anyone else picking up this channel? I live in Foster, RI and have Cox Digital Cable (Cranston Digital).

I have a Fusion card and it will often give the wrong label to a channel. Channel 51 is WJAR and WCVB is on channel 20. You might have to watch it to see what it it really is.
My card acts strangely on on channel 13 WPRI. It gets no signal if the card is set to the antenna mode, but comes in fine if I change to cable mode. I assume this is a bug in the software, does your card react the same? John

No, its not the label, I know its WCVB (ABC from Boston). I confirmed it when I saw them do the station logo. I dont know why they are providing ABC from Boston. I switched from the ABC from Boston to the Prov one and the Prov one isnt supplying the HD feed for some of the shows, so that might be a reason.

WCVB DT is ABC for the Boston market recognized as 5.1 OTA. WLNE DT is ABC for the Providence market recognized as 6.1 OTA. Both are easily picked up from many locations around the state of RI. I get both in Cranston.

........