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

Is it just NBC or is it WJAR? It seems that some of the programs are starting in SD and then switching to HD. I am watching "My Name in Earl" at 9:07 and it is still in SD? What is up at WJAR?


WJAR person, please answer if you know the issue with it, if its either the NBC feed or is it a problem at WJAR.

The "forgot to flip the switch" syndrome is fairly common on this station. I believe it's the local affiliate WJAR. Usually happens at the beginning of the show or coming back from commercial.

I know, I can pick them both up via OTA, but I am picking up the Boston ABC (WCVB) via Cox Cable. So I am just wondering if that is a error or are they providing both feeds now on the Cox Market in RI. Can anyone else confirm this on Cox Cable in RI (I am using a Fusion HDTV Card).

Also, is it me or is WJAR having some big problems with their HDTV programming, I am watching Las Vagas now and it says it suppost to be in HD, but its the SD feed with black bars on the side.

Sorry, I misunderstood the question. ABC through my Cox STB is WLNE ABC6 and has not changed. I do not get the Boston affiliate through STB from Cox. Not sure why your tuner card picks it up.

Has WLNE been lacking their HDTV feed, I just switched to the Boston ABC Feed and it is in HD, but the Providence feed is not?

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

I think if we can all get together here in RI & CT and keep on calling Cox about LIN's Signal for CBS & Fox HD here in RI and ABC-HD in CT, I think we can get them to finally relize that their customers want their local HD channels. Just keep on calling each day and keep on complainning. My uncle works at Cox as a manager and he is trying to push it for us for LIN's agreement, I will keep you guys updated on their status.

If Fios-TV rolls out here in RI, I think most of RI will switch over once it comes here, I think 85% of Cox's Customers are pissed off with them and want to get rid of them. So try and push that too with the RI Legistation.

I have contacted Cox repeatedly regarding the CBS/Fox/LIN situation. I've never received anything other than a form letter in return. Each time they thank me for my interest and inform that they are constantly working toward "improvements" to satisfy their loyal customers. There is never anything of substance in their correspondence. I'm not too concerned about the CBS/Fox issue because I get OTA from two different markets. The only downside is lack of DVR for these two networks.

I don't doubt that 85% of Cox subscribers are in some way dissatisfied or could use improvement in service, but I doubt that they would all be willing to jump ship just because a newer (better) alternative is available.

On the CBS HD broadcasts, is it the network, or is WPRI that just can not get the audio synched up with the video. Its become so distracting that many shows (other than sports) have become unwatchable. If its WPRI then from compression and digital artifacts to this audio issue, the case for charging for their signal just keeps getting weaker.

I think if we can all get together here in RI & CT and keep on calling Cox about LIN's Signal for CBS & Fox HD here in RI and ABC-HD in CT, I think we can get them to finally relize that their customers want their local HD channels. Just keep on calling each day and keep on complainning. My uncle works at Cox as a manager and he is trying to push it for us for LIN's agreement, I will keep you guys updated on their status.

If Fios-TV rolls out here in RI, I think most of RI will switch over once it comes here, I think 85% of Cox's Customers are pissed off with them and want to get rid of them. So try and push that too with the RI Legistation.


A-OK!

As long as Lin stops acting like they invented HD and as long as they stop trying to charge us for it through Cox Cable.

Got our hd-dvr from cox today. No hdmi though :(

On the CBS HD broadcasts, is it the network, or is WPRI that just can not get the audio synched up with the video. Its become so distracting that many shows (other than sports) have become unwatchable. If its WPRI then from compression and digital artifacts to this audio issue, the case for charging for their signal just keeps getting weaker.

Try CBS out of Boston. No sync/artifact issues.

The audio synch problem with WPRI is within their local encoding chain. They sometimes lose audio channels all together with no quick system for detection and correction so it goes on for hours if not days defective.

As far as the whole CBS/FOX (LINN & COX) issue. Linn has their cards on the table and is not making any excuses. Cox will have an improved product/service to offer as a result of their investment into HD technology and this will generate revenue for them. They feel some of this should be shared.

FIOS will more than likely face a similar request from LINN and if the cost out weighs the benefit they will decline and the signal will not be provided. I'm sure LINN will be able to take the upper hand and work something out when another player enters the market.

...As far as the whole CBS/FOX (LINN & COX) issue. Linn has their cards on the table and is not making any excuses. Cox will have an improved product/service to offer as a result of their investment into HD technology and this will generate revenue for them. They feel some of this should be shared...

Great idea! Share the stations with Cox so they can share with us just like the other locals. :D

Great, share and share alike!

we're waiting :) :) :)

This is a cross post (sorry) and may have stopped happening for now, but:

Since sometime after 10 last night, I can't get anything other than a very quiet, bass sound from CBS in HD unless I manually change the 6412 to output PCM.

Any ideas?

History:

Two weeks ago I traded for the phase III and last night, a little after 10pm, I tried playing with HDMI with my DVD player and the 6412. Sometime later, I discovered that my recording of "In Justice" still worked fine, but all the live show watching I'm doing isn't working. I tried at 1am, 2am, 3am, 9am and 10am. All other channels work fine. The only way for me to get pretty normal audio is to go into settings, More Settings, Audio, Digital Audio and change from AC-3/DD to PCM.

One might think that the attempt to play w/ HDMI is the source of the problem, given the timing and the gossip that the HDMI stuff (I have firmware .18, not .22 yet) is buggy and messes w/ audio. I suspect as much; but, there is some conflcting evidence. 1st, I'm not using HDMI any more. Video is on component and I've tried both optical and coax for the audio. I've uplugged and re-plugged the box (should I do a more thorough type of reset?). All the other channels work fine. 2nd, on my OTA HD tuner, WLNE HD audio sounds very, very similar and is thus useless. On that box (an LG 3510a) I don't know how to set it for PCM out.

Help? Comments? Advice? Laughter and ridicule?

I'm dead -- I'm having raving Pats fans over for the game so they can see it in nice HD. Neither of my HD sources is working acceptibly!!

Any chance Cox and Lin will reach an agreement before next Saturday's Pats playoff game? I am having a party that evening (arranged before I knew the Pats would be playing this Saturday night). I would hate for everyone to see my great new HDTV and then have to watch the game on crappy standard definition CBS.

I am half-inclined to go buy a tuner and antenna. Unfortunately Radio Shack is all out of the OTA HD tuner that was on clearance recently. Anyone know of a cost-effective alternative?

Great idea! Share the stations with Cox so they can share with us just like the other locals. :D

Great, share and share alike!

we're waiting :) :) :)
I second that! If all the locals started charging Cox for their HD signals, guess who ends up paying for it? If the management at Lin can't figure out how to make profits without ripping us off, maybe they can get some tips from the management at WJAR or WLNE!

WPRI/WNAC worked with Bernie's to have them offer an excellent OTA digital receiver at their cost (around $200), no matter where you may have purchased your digital television. They should have plenty in stock.
If the previous poster believes that the NBC network (which ownes WJAR) does not get compensated for their signal through inflated payment for MSNBC, CNBC, Bravo, etc., then you are naive and should work for the Cox PR department! Instead of paying cable for many channels that you never watch, why don't you ask Cox to dump a few channels and fairly compensate LIN Television!

WPRI/WNAC worked with Bernie's to have them offer an excellent OTA digital receiver at their cost (around $200), no matter where you may have purchased your digital television. They should have plenty in stock.
If the previous poster believes that the NBC network (which ownes WJAR) does not get compensated for their signal through inflated payment for MSNBC, CNBC, Bravo, etc., then you are naive and should work for the Cox PR department! Instead of paying cable for many channels that you never watch, why don't you ask Cox to dump a few channels and fairly compensate LIN Television!
I just want CBS and FOX HD broadcasts without buying a tuner or climbing on my roof to put up an ugly-ass antenna and running wires.
I'm not sure how you calculate when payment for something is "inflated", they're all just business deals, and apparently the deals with NBC/WJAR and WLNE were palatable enough for Cox that they were able to reach an agreement with them. Not so with the Lin stations.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not a fan of Cox and their constant rate hikes, but making them pay for local HD signals will only make our rates go up again.
Also, I like the a la carte idea, but that's a red herring. The issue at hand is that RI can't get HD signals from two major networks through cable.
I couldn't care less if I never see another lame WPRI or WNAC newcast, if Cox could get their network HD signals from somewhere else, that would be fine with me, but apparently there are barriers to that that I'm not aware of.

WPRI/WNAC worked with Bernie's to have them offer an excellent OTA digital receiver at their cost (around $200), no matter where you may have purchased your digital television. They should have plenty in stock.
If the previous poster believes that the NBC network (which ownes WJAR) does not get compensated for their signal through inflated payment for MSNBC, CNBC, Bravo, etc., then you are naive and should work for the Cox PR department! Instead of paying cable for many channels that you never watch, why don't you ask Cox to dump a few channels and fairly compensate LIN Television!
Hmm I wonder who you work for? The fact is that we cannot get two out of four of the MAJOR HD networks available over cable. While I'm sure cox has something to do about it, LIN should work something out. NBC and ABC are able to do it. In the end it just screws us who keeps companies like LIN going. :mad:

Great Discussion, It's obvious that LINN and COX are content with tabling this issue. The only option we have is to increase the blip on the radar for our Federal and Local reps. I know that the Indiana Senate adopted "A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION" that urged congress to revise the MUST CARRY ONLY WITHIN THE DMA (47 CFR 76.51 et seq) to require non satellite MVPD's to only have to carry 1 in DMA and shop even out of market for the rest. That would be fine with me.

Lets take this energy to our federal and local legislators in the form of letters,petitions and even phone calls. Remember we are approaching the big 08 elections. We need this on the table within the next 6-8 months.

Who's in?

Great Discussion, It's obvious that LINN and COX are content with tabling this issue. The only option we have is to increase the blip on the radar for our Federal and Local reps. I know that the Indiana Senate adopted "A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION" that urged congress to revise the MUST CARRY ONLY WITHIN THE DMA (47 CFR 76.51 et seq) to require non satellite MVPD's to only have to carry 1 in DMA and shop even out of market for the rest. That would be fine with me.

Lets take this energy to our federal and local legislators in the form of letters,petitions and even phone calls. Remember we are approaching the big 08 elections. We need this on the table within the next 6-8 months.

Who's in?
Sounds good, but by the time it takes anything to get accomplished through the political process we'll be debating about holographic signals!
The way I see it is that Cox has to be careful about keeping rates down to keep customers from jumping to satellite or any future competition (Verizon).
Lin feels that they should be compensated for their investment in digital equipment, but Lin isn't making anything (except community resentment) by withholding their HD signal from Cox, so it can't be that it's hurting them money-wise.
And judging by the "You can get our HD signal free!" exclamations you see now on their stations, Lin is feeling the pressure as more people are buying HD TVs.
I think viewers should express their concerns to CBS and FOX, and tell local WPRI and WNAC advertisers that they're going to boycott their products.

I thought ABC had the superbowl this year.... but maybe this will all work out afterall - (unless this is from last year!):
Cox Communications to carry Fox Providence’s High Definition Signal for Super Bowl

Subscribers of COX Communications will be able to view the Super Bowl in High Definition on COX, thanks to a last minute agreement reached Friday.

“We’re pleased to be able to provide our COX customers the Super Bowl on FOX Providence in High Definition” said WPRI/WNAC President and General Manager, Jay Howell.

The agreement is just for the Super Bowl and both sides say they will continue negotiations to reach a longer term agreement that would cover the digital signals of WNAC-DT and WPRI-DT.

The Fox Providence is broadcast on WNAC-DT and on Sunday will be carried on Cox Communications, HD Channel 704.

I thought ABC had the superbowl this year.... but maybe this will all work out afterall - (unless this is from last year!):
Cox Communications to carry Fox Providence’s High Definition Signal for Super Bowl

Subscribers of COX Communications will be able to view the Super Bowl in High Definition on COX, thanks to a last minute agreement reached Friday.

“We’re pleased to be able to provide our COX customers the Super Bowl on FOX Providence in High Definition” said WPRI/WNAC President and General Manager, Jay Howell.

The agreement is just for the Super Bowl and both sides say they will continue negotiations to reach a longer term agreement that would cover the digital signals of WNAC-DT and WPRI-DT.

The Fox Providence is broadcast on WNAC-DT and on Sunday will be carried on Cox Communications, HD Channel 704.
That is from last year, as ABC is carrying the Super bowl this year. I wish they could reach that same agreement for playoff games on cbs/fox, or just all year long.

Great Discussion, It's obvious that LINN and COX are content with tabling this issue. The only option we have is to increase the blip on the radar for our Federal and Local reps. I know that the Indiana Senate adopted "A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION" that urged congress to revise the MUST CARRY ONLY WITHIN THE DMA (47 CFR 76.51 et seq) to require non satellite MVPD's to only have to carry 1 in DMA and shop even out of market for the rest. That would be fine with me.

Lets take this energy to our federal and local legislators in the form of letters,petitions and even phone calls. Remember we are approaching the big 08 elections. We need this on the table within the next 6-8 months.

Who's in?

I'm in!

We have some good ideas here, including contacting the networks.

Can you post a copy of this Resolution so we can introduce a similar one in the Rhode Island Senate. I'm sure we'll have a few Senators that will be introducing it in our behalf.

I bit the bullet and bought an OTA box and antenna (Fujitsu aka Sylvania) from a local big-box retailer. It cost me a little over $200 but I am able to pull in the local networks via the small indoor antenna included so it looks like I will be able to watch Saturday night's game in HD without waiting for Lin and Cox to battle it out.

Although the salesperson more or less "encouraged" us to use and return the box, we may end up keeping it for our smaller Sceptre LCD upstairs. The Tonight Show looks great in HD and pulling in OTA sure beats paying Cox another $10-15/month to rent a second box.

And by the way I did *not* buy the box from a local retailer that advertises heavily on the Lin stations in case (I am sure) they have a profit-sharing arrangement.

I assume that most people with HD capability have HD-ready TVs, meaning that they need HD capable set top boxes to recieve HD content. All or most D*TV and Dish HD boxes have ATSC tuners built in. My question is: do Cox and Comcast HD boxes have ATSC tuners built in such that customers can plug in OTA antennas to get HDTV?

I assume that most people with HD capability have HD-ready TVs, meaning that they need HD capable set top boxes to recieve HD content. All or most D*TV and Dish HD boxes have ATSC tuners built in. My question is: do Cox and Comcast HD boxes have ATSC tuners built in such that customers can plug in OTA antennas to get HDTV?


Cox Does not.

to reply to esidehd, LIN soen not have a profit share with Bernie's, and they agreed to sell the receiver at cost, so all you did was cost yourself money.

to reply to davesrave, COX could easily build a receiver into their set top box like D*TV and DISH, but chooses not to.

to any and all COX apologists, LIN gave COX a proposal last May and was told that COX would respond in a week. LIN didn't hear from them for over 5 months. COX has now had a new proposal for over a month. LIN is again waiting for a response.

...to any and all COX apologists, LIN gave COX a proposal last May and was told that COX would respond in a week. LIN didn't hear from them for over 5 months. COX has now had a new proposal for over a month. LIN is again waiting for a response.

What is it about silence that Lin doesn't understand? What is it about Lin that doesn't understand, stop sending proposals that ask for compensation above and beyond what the other locals get :eek:

Joe3, do you have any idea how much compensation NBC gets for WJAR? LIN are asking for much less than NBC gets. You should try to get more educated on the cable vs. broadcasting issues happening around the country before you make statements and contact legislators.

Joe3, do you have any idea how much compensation NBC gets for WJAR? LIN are asking for much less than NBC gets. You should try to get more educated on the cable vs. broadcasting issues happening around the country before you make statements and contact legislators.
I need to get educated too. Give us the facts if you have any.

Joe3, do you have any idea how much compensation NBC gets for WJAR? LIN are asking for much less than NBC gets. You should try to get more educated on the cable vs. broadcasting issues happening around the country before you make statements and contact legislators.

Yes, edjumacate me too. NBC gets compensated for allowing WJAR to broadcast network feeds? Do additional cable viewers cause that fee to rise? Is that an Apples to Apples comparison? Why don't you list the top three issues you refer to? That would be a start.

Forgive me for digging out an old article, but we have been at this with Lin for a long time. The " fight is between station owners and cable operators. "





HDTV: High Disappointment Television

Many owners of pricey new HDTVs are about to find out they can't get the Super Bowl they paid for.
by Chris Isidore, CNN/Money senior writer

February 4, 2005 - CNN: Fox is broadcasting a high definition version of the Super Bowl, but many HDTV owners will be locked out from watching it due to a fight between station owners and cable operators.

Thousands of fans who recently bought high definition televisions in anticipation of hosting a great Super Bowl party are about to tune into a low definition disappointment.

Even though Fox is broadcasting the game in HDTV format, the signal won't be available in many markets. So sports fans who spent thousands on new sets because of the extra sharp HDTV picture won't be getting their money's worth.

This nasty surprise may be particularly harsh for Philadelphia Eagles fans who live in such markets as Baltimore and Pittsburgh, or the New England Patriots fans in Rhode Island.

These fans are caught in a battle between owners of many of the individual Fox affiliates around the country and their cable operators.

Viewers who are served by the 20 Fox stations owned by the network itself will be able to get the game in HDTV. But the Fox-owned stations represents just less than half the country. In many other areas, stations airing the game won't be doing so in the sharp new format.

The fight, not surprisingly, is about money.

Cable-system operators have for decades paid cable networks a fee based upon the number of subscribers they have. They haven't paid the over-the-air stations that provide network programming.

It's less of a issue for the network-owned stations, since all the networks also own a large range of cable networks. When they negotiate fees with cable operators for those networks, the rights to the broadcast stations they own are included.

But the independent owners of local stations have no such leverage in their cable negotiations. They have come to grudgingly accept not being paid for their old, low-def analog signal. Some, such as Sinclair Broadcasting (Research), are drawing the line at their HD signal.

"The cable operators are paying to show content. The most important content you have is the broadcast stations," said Sinclair general counsel Barry Faber. "They take the position that over the air is free to people, so it should be free to them."

Faber says it's an issue of economic fairness. "We've spent more than $150 million to upgrade to a digital HDTV signal," he says. "And the cable operators are using the HD signal to get people to switch to their more expensive digital cable package."

Sports are among the primary motivations behind consumer purchases of high definition televisions. A survey conducted for Comcast (Research), the nation's largest cable operator, found that 28 percent of expected Super Bowl viewers factored in the availability of HDTV into their decision about where to watch the game.

Comcast admits that the Super Bowl is a prime driver of customer sign-ups for HDTV service. The holiday selling season just saw a 143 percent increase in the number of its customers connecting to HDTV in January compared to a year ago. Comcast now has more than 1 million customers, or about 5 percent of its customer base, with HDTV.

"For sports fans, watching events like this weekend's Super Bowl or the upcoming March Madness tournament in crystal clear HD is the next best thing to being in the front row," said Dave Watson, executive vice president of operations for Comcast, in a statement.

Comcast has reached agreements with the Fox affiliates serving 88 percent of its customers to allow them to watch the game in HD. But that likely leaves more than 2.5 million Comcast customers unable to get the HD picture. Assuming 5 percent HDTV penetration, that's about 125,000 unhappy Comcast customers this Sunday, more than can fit into any NFL stadium.

Sinclair has 20 Fox affiliates, including the ones in Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Columbus, Ohio. But unless it can strike a deal with the cable companies in the next year, it's going to be a problem for Super Bowl XL as well, when ABC shows the game. Sinclair owns 9 ABC affiliates.

Satellite television providers such as DirecTV, which is owned by Fox-parent News Corp. (Research), can send Fox's national HDTV signal to any of the markets served by Fox-owned stations, but not in the rest of the country.

That's partly because DirecTV doesn't yet have the capacity to show the local station's HD broadcasts. But Fox's national HD feed, with its national ads, also can't compete with the local broadcasts from its partners.

It's not clear who will be the eventual winner in this battle. It's only clear who's the loser -- the fans who spent thousands with dreams of the ultimate Super Bowl viewing experience.

When they turn on the sets and can't get the picture they expect this Sunday, they should remember this much: their new sets don't respond well to having things thrown at them.

Many thanks to WLNE 6, Cox and ABC. The Super Bowl will be available in HD this year to all Rhode Islanders.

It looks lilke the wind must have damaged the equipment or put out the power to transmitters in Rehoboth.
There's been no OTA HD signal from any of the providers transmitting from there all day. (Including ABC who should have 2 hours of Lost tonight.)

Anybody know if these will be down all night?

It looks lilke the wind must have damaged the equipment or put out the power to transmitters in Rehoboth.
There's been no OTA HD signal from any of the providers transmitting from there all day. (Including ABC who should have 2 hours of Lost tonight.)

Anybody know if these will be down all night?

The wind today knocked down power lines feeding our facility we are waiting for National Grid to restore power, I have no estimated time when it will return. We do not have power backup for our digital facility.

Mark

..........

New HD channel 715. Programming is rather lacking, though, unless, of course, you like watching Quantum Leap and Knnight Rider all day ;)

Comcast Bristol County? for UHD?

Now I want NGEO-HD!!

New HD channel 715. Programming is rather lacking, though, unless, of course, you like watching Quantum Leap and Knnight Rider all day ;)
I just found that out. Was going from inhd2 to tnt and noticed an extra channel. Any new HD station is good to me, but I really wish they would get cbs and fox through cox.

New HD channel 715. Programming is rather lacking, though, unless, of course, you like watching Quantum Leap and Knnight Rider all day ;)

Also just noticed this. I scrolled ahead in the listings and it appears that there is VERY limited programming. I realize this is a theme with HD in general, but Universal HD takes it to new heights. I could find a single show I was interested in watching. Oh well, any new HD is welcome. Still waiting on FX and ESPN2.

Hi all,

Been a while since I've been reading this tread, but is anyone else still not getting programming info in their guides for digital 36.1 (ch 21) WSBE and 28.1 (ch 22) WLWC? Its been many months since both of these stations have online and they are the only 2 I currently still do no receive programing info for.

Anyone else? Any ideas when this will be resolved?

Thanks in advance!
-S

New HD channel 715. Programming is rather lacking, though, unless, of course, you like watching Quantum Leap and Knnight Rider all day ;)

You have another HD channel to watch the Olympics!

You have another HD channel to watch the Olympics!

I did just notice that. Their website didn't give any sort of listing for date/time of scheduled events though. Hopefully it's updated soon.

Previous NBC press releases have stated that all the olympic hockey games will be shown in their entirety in HD. I am not sure if they were referring to all games or all USA games, and they didn't differentiate men's v. women's. Anyway, everyone expects that this will be on UHD. What other Olympic programming will also be on UHD is unknown.

SMK

Check out this website. It lists what olypmic games will be in HD and on what channel.

http://www.hdsportsguide.com

I live on the East Side of Providence, right near Miriam. I'm on the side of a hill, and my view towards the primary towers I would like to receive, as displayed on antennaweb[daht]org, are down the hill that I am on meaning that the hill shouldn't block signals.

However, I have many houses and trees all around me. How badly will these obstructions block signals? Will I be OK with putting an antenna on my roof (to get it up high)?

Anyone else in this forum have a similar problem as I? Anyone else live close to me and can share their experiences?

Thanks,

-Brian

Depending on what channels you are looking for, you may be able to get by with an indoor antenna. The major towers are all in the same direction and only a few miles away. I went through a number of different indoor amplified and non-amplified antennas (the performance varied widely between them). We live on the East side as well, but not on a hill (closer toward Wayland Square) and the houses/trees don't seem to be a problem.

If you want to pull in the Boston stations, rooftop may be better, although we get all the Boston stations (except Fox) with our latest antenna (Terk HDTVi). Still within the 30 day return period so we may try for another more concealable antenna - this one is kind of like a sideways Christmas tree but works much better than the other ones we tried from Radio Shack and RCA.

Save your receipts and only buy from stores with a good return policy on antennas.

esidehd,

Thanks for the info; it gives me hope that I'll be able to ditch Cox! ;-)

What floor is your antenna on? What direction is it pointed? Is reception solid? Does reception change during weather events (rain, etc)? Do you think your reception will change when the trees have their leaves?

Thanks again,

-BL

esidehd,

Thanks for the info; it gives me hope that I'll be able to ditch Cox! ;-)

What floor is your antenna on? What direction is it pointed? Is reception solid? Does reception change during weather events (rain, etc)? Do you think your reception will change when the trees have their leaves?

Thanks again,

-BL

It's on the second floor pointed Northeast aiming out an East-facing window. I have not noticed any weather-related changes and have not had any blips in the reception (we use this set mostly at nighttime to watch the Boston news). The first few antennas we tried were very picky about direction and reception though, so keep trying until you find one you're happy with.

To be honest with you I had not thought about the tree issue. Ugh. I guess we'll hope for the best. We still have Cox for the downstairs TV but did not want to spring for an extra HD box for the upstairs TV.

Good luck.

WJAR HD Out of sync on my comcast cable all other HD plays fine here in Acushnet . Sd plays fine on WJAR , anybody else ?

WJAR HD Out of sync on my comcast cable all other HD plays fine here in Acushnet . Sd plays fine on WJAR , anybody else ?

WJAR-DT is often out of sync through Cox Cable as well. Have not checked OTA from either Boston or Providence yet.

What floor is your antenna on? What direction is it pointed? Is reception solid? Does reception change during weather events (rain, etc)? Do you think your reception will change when the trees have their leaves?

I am in Pawtucket just over the border from Providence, so less than a mile away. I have an old RS antenna lying on the joists in my attic pointing towards the Boston towers. I have also used a Channel Master 4221 (it is only UHF) the same way. I get perfect reception of all Boston and Providence stations. There is no problem with reception with any changes in weather, leaves, etc. I don't have to rotate the antenna. Everything is rock solid. Either antenna works great. The reason I use the RS antenna is that it is both VHF and UHF, and one of my TVs still uses an analog tuner. This way I get passable reception for the VHF stations that the CM antenna wouldn't provide.

From your location you should have no difficulty. If you can't get in the attic, an indoor antenna should work fine, but an outdoor antenna would give you Boston and Providence.

SMK

Got our hd-dvr from cox today. No hdmi though :(

I have the COX DVR (Motorolla 6412) and HDMI is active. I had the best buy folks hook it up for me so I don't know if they did something to the box to activate it...

There is a bug that kills dolby digital (drops down to PCM) if you are using HDMI... so you may want to hold off until the bug is fixed.

WJAR HD Out of sync on my comcast cable all other HD plays fine here in Acushnet . Sd plays fine on WJAR , anybody else ?

We have been getting many complaints of audio very out of sync for the past two days we adjusted a delay for the HD signal but we are still not really there. We believe it is in the HD receiver for NBC at the studio we are working to find the reason why this has happened.

Mark

We have been getting many complaints of audio very out of sync for the past two days we adjusted a delay for the HD signal but we are still not really there. We believe it is in the HD receiver for NBC at the studio we are working to find the reason why this has happened.

Mark

Thanks for Reply , Toenail and WJAR Engineer
sync is better tonight big test will be late night with Conan . Tell the boss I
recomend you get a raise Mark .

Charlie

We have been getting many complaints of audio very out of sync for the past two days we adjusted a delay for the HD signal but we are still not really there. We believe it is in the HD receiver for NBC at the studio we are working to find the reason why this has happened.

Mark

OOPS WJAR HD is now more out of sync agin . Was not bad on program before 11pm news . Now when Leno comes on it's way out agin .Maybe no one's watching the store late at night .

Charlie

Does audio drop out every couple minutes for a split second on ABC6 HD for anyone else? I have Cox and a 6412 DVR HD box. The weird thing is that if I have something in the DVR from ABC6, it still happens but it happens in different places than if I was watching that program live. What I mean is if I'm watching a recorded program and it drops out, I can rewind and play the same spot where it dropped out and it won't do it there again.

The reason I put this in here is it only seems to happen on this local channel. Thoughts?

I have seen this over the air on WLNE for a very long time. Some days it is better than others. Sometimes my TV tunner makes a burping noise, but other receivcers just quiet the sound. Other channels don't do this. I don't no what the cause is. John

Does audio drop out every couple minutes for a split second on ABC6 HD for anyone else? I have Cox and a 6412 DVR HD box. The weird thing is that if I have something in the DVR from ABC6, it still happens but it happens in different places than if I was watching that program live. What I mean is if I'm watching a recorded program and it drops out, I can rewind and play the same spot where it dropped out and it won't do it there again.

The reason I put this in here is it only seems to happen on this local channel. Thoughts?

My wife DVRs Desperate Housewives every Sunday night on this ABC station. Each week during replay there are about a 1/2 dozen audio dropouts. I've never checked to see if the drops would still be present if replayed a second time. I'll have to try that.

The reason I put this in here is it only seems to happen on this local channel. Thoughts?

I have noticed the same thing - only on ABC but it happens when I watch live or recorded. Seems like it happens less often when I'm watching live... but I'm not sure if that's true.

All other HD and SD channels work fine.

We have increased the bandwidth allocated to 10.1 for the Olympics and reduced it on WeatherPlus 10.2.

Mark

WJAR Engineer,

is COX still getting a fiber optic feed from WJAR as opposed to OTA?

WJAR Engineer,

is COX still getting a fiber optic feed from WJAR as opposed to OTA?

Yes that is correct we feed both signals via fiber, the HD processors and multiplexor are before we feed OTA and Cox so you should see no difference between the two.

Mark

How come no 5.1 sound on WJAR tonight for the Olympics? Costas was talking last night about the entire thing being in HD and 5.1 as well as some press releases I read.

On another note, I DVRed and rewatched the Opening Ceremonies rebroadcast overnight last night and noticed it wasn't in 5.1 either, but I did notice that it was 5.1 during the original broadcast. Of course on the rebroadcast, the switch flipper left it on SD when the US came into the stadium, but was in HD for every other country. Was it this way for the initial broadcast?

EDIT: They just flipped it to 5.1, 40 minutes after the broadcast started. 5 minutes after my post.

I experienced many brief signal dropouts last night on both cable HD and OTA HD. Did others experience this, or was it just me. Since it happened via both inputs I assumed the problem was at signal origination.

I also had problems viewing NBC HD Olympic Coverage on Saturday night. Both audio and video were dropping out. (I get my service from COX Digital Cable). I finally gave up and just switched to Channel 10 SD which was better, but also seemed to have a few audio problems every now and then. My guess is that it must be related to the NBC feed, either locally or coming from Italy, since other non-NBC stations and a pre-recorded show on the COX DVR were OK.

I had the same issue with the olympics saturday night on NBC HD, also from COX. The feed dropped frequently and it seemed liked they switched to an SD feed for a while... had to switch to the SD channel.

Hockey on Univeral (715) looked great though! And come think of it, NBC HD looked fine during the day, it just got bad a night.

Agreed. The HD feeds are great. I wish NBC would show more action live. I hope the storm doesn't add to the problems.

I also had problems viewing NBC HD Olympic Coverage on Saturday night. Both audio and video were dropping out. (I get my service from COX Digital Cable). I finally gave up and just switched to Channel 10 SD which was better, but also seemed to have a few audio problems every now and then. My guess is that it must be related to the NBC feed, either locally or coming from Italy, since other non-NBC stations and a pre-recorded show on the COX DVR were OK.


This was on the network Uplink side. All affiliates were experiencing HD problems due to the storm. There is no backup system for HD, but there is for the SD feed. That is why it kept switching the the SD feed.

Hi all,

Been a while since I've been reading this tread, but is anyone else still not getting programming info in their guides for digital 36.1 (ch 21) WSBE and 28.1 (ch 22) WLWC? Its been many months since both of these stations have online and they are the only 2 I currently still do no receive programing info for.

Anyone else? Any ideas when this will be resolved?

Thanks in advance!
-S


Well, some time last week WLWC Ch 28.1 program data started showing up in my guide. Coincidence or luck, I don't know but glad to see that it did.

Now does anyone know if WSBE Ch 36.1 PBS will be doing the same? We will soon be approaching a year since this channel went live and afaik it is the only channel that currently doesn't have any guide data. Any one with any info?

Thanks!
-S

I'm still not geting guide data for either 28-1 or 36-1 on my HR1250. I also don't get HD programming on 28-1, altho when I check on 38-1 the program is in HD. And what about 36-1 - when do they plan to offer HD programming?

So we were watching Lost last night (COX HD DVR) and every few minutes we'd lose a few seconds of sound. It's happened in the past but not this bad - anyone else getting this?

Is this an OTA issue from WLNE or just on the COX feed? All the other digital and HD channels work fine.

Vijay,
I watched that 'Lost' recording from OTA (WLNE) on my HR210-250 and don't recall any audio drops at all. Must be a COX issue.

Keith

I recorded Lost from WLNE OTA on a DISH network 921, and had lots of sound dropouts. Whether it was because of OTA or the 921 is anyone's guess though... :p

So we were watching Lost last night (COX HD DVR) and every few minutes we'd lose a few seconds of sound. It's happened in the past but not this bad - anyone else getting this?

Is this an OTA issue from WLNE or just on the COX feed? All the other digital and HD channels work fine.

We get the same dropouts when recording Desperate Housewives on WLNE through Cox on the moto 6412 STB. During playback there are 3-5 instances where audio drops for a second or two then picks back up. Has happened at least 1/2 a dozen times over the past few months. I've not watched the show in real time on OTA to see if it occurs there as well.

We had the same audio dropouts on our 6412 during lost. Kind of annoying, especialy when it happened while someone was talking.

i also lose audio for a second or two all the time ,very aggravating.cox had no explanation for this problem

Last nights Oscar show was the worst for audio drops. Every 3-5 minutes there was a 1 second drop. Lasted throughout the entire show. Totally distracting. This was using The Cox moto6412 in real time on ABC6, no recording.

Last nights Oscar show was the worst for audio drops. Every 3-5 minutes there was a 1 second drop. Lasted throughout the entire show. Totally distracting. This was using The Cox moto6412 in real time on ABC6, no recording.
Yup, happened to me as well. Does anyone know if cox has the 6416 here yet? People on the HD recorder forums from the OC and some other markets are reporting the cox has given them the new moto 6416, and I'd like to try one, in hopes of fixing the many problems with our 6412.

Yup, happened to me as well. Does anyone know if cox has the 6416 here yet? People on the HD recorder forums from the OC and some other markets are reporting the cox has given them the new moto 6416, and I'd like to try one, in hopes of fixing the many problems with our 6412.

Warwick Mall branch gets replenished on Wednesdays. Most boxes that come in are 6412 w/DVI. Guy at the counter couldn't verify model number but did say they get a few of the "newer ones with the HDMI" in each shipment. Not sure if this is 6412 phase III or 6416. I plan to poke my head in this week to see what's available.

Warwick Mall branch gets replenished on Wednesdays. Most boxes that come in are 6412 w/DVI. Guy at the counter couldn't verify model number but did say they get a few of the "newer ones with the HDMI" in each shipment. Not sure if this is 6412 phase III or 6416. I plan to poke my head in this week to see what's available.

I picked my 6412 from there and it had HDMI active... this was back in November.

I can't tell if the issue is with the broadcast or with the DVR - it seems like when you watch a scene again the audio drop changes in duration...

But I also don't understand why it only happens on on WLNE.

Does anyone know of a good antenna installar?

Back in the days before cable, as a teenager, I used to get $5 for jumping around roofs like a monkey for this (risk averse) guy who had a storefront business installing antennas. I don't suppose that's been a good business model for a while now.

I now live in a big condo complex on Fox Point in Providence. I get pretty good OTA reception from local and Boston stations (I recently, inexplicably lost 44.1, 44.1 and 44.3 -- even as WGBH PBS HD 2,1 and 2,2 is still loud and clear :( )

I use 2 simple Radio Shack UHF outdoor antennas indoors, up in the rafters of the loft. I would like to get rid of these. We are not allowed to put anything outside on the roof though.

I thought I could convince the association to pay to install one single, tall antenna. Individuals interested in getting OTA wired into thier places could then pay for the installer to distribute/amplify the reception form this central antenna. Say ... $100 or $200 each unit? That would be a nice little chunk of business for an installer. They could probably route the new cables in parallel to the ones the cable company has already got -- they're probably even already labelled by unit in the utillity rooms. ALl the units even have wall panels cut in that could be adapted. Imagine it ... OTA HDTV right ftrom the wall ...nice.

I need to find someone, and then present a proposal to the condo association though.

The building has a 3 story pitched roof near the water. Rhode Island is very flat. With a tall antenna I bet we could get awesome reception for Boston, New Bedford, Springfield Worcester stations, Hartford(?), maybe even some stuff out on long Island.


PS has anyone else recently lost WGBX?


Mike

Warwick Mall branch gets replenished on Wednesdays. Most boxes that come in are 6412 w/DVI. Guy at the counter couldn't verify model number but did say they get a few of the "newer ones with the HDMI" in each shipment. Not sure if this is 6412 phase III or 6416. I plan to poke my head in this week to see what's available.
Probably just the phase III, but ya never know. I originally had a phase II but it was making clicking noises from the HDD, so I swapped it for a phase III at the mall. Its been a pain though, once and a while it just doesnt record the scheduled programs, which kind of defeats the purpose of it.

I picked my 6412 from there and it had HDMI active... this was back in November.

I can't tell if the issue is with the broadcast or with the DVR - it seems like when you watch a scene again the audio drop changes in duration...

But I also don't understand why it only happens on on WLNE.

It's not just COX - I recorded it OTA on a Dishnetwork 921, and it's got dropouts all over the place as well.

...
PS has anyone else recently lost WGBX?
Mike

Just checked and I'm still getting 44-01, -02, -03, and -04 in middletown.

Jim

Hi All again we will be broadcasting all the NCAA games.

I am working on a way to get the grid upload to this site

here it is

http://wpri.static.worldnow.com/images/incoming/ncaa3-16.gif

Too bad those of us without an antenna still can't get it through cox. :(

Here is the info for Friday

http://wpri.static.worldnow.com/images/incoming/ncaa3-17.gif

How dumb can they get at WPRI/WNAC LIN Corprate?

Have you ever seen a more self destructive economic plan for a media outlet at the expense of the public, their airwaves and their advertisers?

Over 75% of Rhode Island is hooked up to cable leaving them 25% of potential eyeballs. Unless they have advertisers who like to throw their money out the window what the hell are they doing?

Will someone get these guys out of here.
:confused:

How dumb can they get at WPRI/WNAC LIN Corprate?

Have you ever seen a more self destructive economic plan for a media outlet at the expense of the public, their airwaves and their advertisers?

Over 75% of Rhode Island is hooked up to cable leaving them 25% of potential eyeballs. Unless they have advertisers who like to throw their money out the window what the hell are they doing?

Will someone get these guys out of here.
:confused:
I agree. Wasn't this supposed to be resolved around january/february???

I agree. Wasn't this supposed to be resolved around january/february???

Who knows? Likely that no one's telling the truth and both parties - Cox and LIN - are content just sitting on their hands. Like Joe3 says, LIN's decision-making is not too bright.

Cox? ... as long as one keeps paying their Cox bill, they could care less too.

Ranting ... I recently wrote a letter to Customer Relations at Cox in West Warwick (of course it was likely thrown in the trash; I'm not so naive to think I would have gotten a repsonse). I complained about two primary issues - 1). Cox's customer service personnel on the phone and in their walk-in facilites are not articulating a consistent message about the CBS/FOX HD issue. Since December 1, 2005, I was told on the phone twice, once by an service tech guy, and once in their walk at Warwick Mall, "Oh, you can expect us to carry HD from CBS and FOX at the end of the month (or within a few weeks)." I stated in writing that it's maddening to hear such disinformation and suggested they either tell us the truth or shut up and say nothing. I also suggested that if they empower the consumer with truthful information and keep us informed, we would be more supportive (you can read that any way you want). Response .... silence.

Secondly, I told them that for what they're paying in production costs for all of this asinine Digital Max advertising that they could have gotten the deal done a long time ago.

Sigh .... I feel better now. :rolleyes:

Here is the saturday game list

http://wpri.static.worldnow.com/images/incoming/ncaa_sat.gif

Here is sunday

http://wpri.static.worldnow.com/images/incoming/ncaa_sun.gif

I live in Somerset. I have a Wineguard 7082 antenna and a Dish 811 receiver. On my last scan sometime ago, I did not pickup 12. I have been unable to add it. Even though I am much closer to the Rehoboth towers, I can get a signal for all the Boston stations. I am reluctant to rescan and possibly lose a Boston station.
Is there a problem with the channel 12 signal or am I doing something wrong?

I can't pickup 12 (13) either right now..

Here is sunday

http://wpri.static.worldnow.com/images/incoming/ncaa_sun.gif

Thanks for the continued updates. It's nice to have all of this info in such a tidy package.

Has anyone watched the 12-2 subchannel? Can't say as though I've ever seen such a glorious example of macroblocking before. My wife commented it was like "watching Atari". Still a price worth paying to get it at all, and for free.

Here's what I received yesterday from Cox:


Thank you for your inquiry. Cox is committed to providing the best customer service possible.

We have received your recent email regarding CBS and Fox in HD. First, we apologize again for the lengthy delay in providing you CBS and Fox in HD. We realize the explanation that negotiations are ongoing is not sufficient enough. However, it is the truth. The negotiations for these HD channels are taking an extraordinarily long time. Over the past 2 years, we’ve been negotiating, on a local level, with all the local broadcasters to obtain rights to distribute their HD signals. We were successful with the local broadcasters for NBC and ABC. However, WNAC Fox Ch. 64 and WPRI Ch. 12 in Rhode Island remain the only local broadcast channels with whom we have not been successful at negotiating a HD deal. These stations are owned by LIN Broadcasting, who also owns other broadcast stations in the following Cox markets: Connecticut, Virginia, Florida and Texas. There has been no progress in any these markets either. In November 2005, Cox New England had solicited the help of our corporate office in Atlanta to negotiate a deal on a national basis with LIN Broadcasting. We are hoping this will expedite a deal for our local broadcast channels.

We apologize for any inconvenience that you have experienced, due to this situation.

Thank you.
Madelaine
Cox Communications Online Customer Care Team

The race will be on 64.1 in HD at 11am

I'm so glad LIN has not be doing well as a company, there is no reason that they should keep cox from broadcasting the HD content.

Here are the games. On Friday we have the BC game AND Conn. game on 64-2 incase the Network changes the main feed you will still be able to get those games.

http://wpri.static.worldnow.com/images/incoming/ncaathur.gif

http://wpri.static.worldnow.com/images/incoming/ncaafri.gif

Did anyone else get more audio dropouts while watching lost on their 6412 last night? I happened to be recording another show, which was SD, at the same time as lost, and my damn box couldn't keep up, it was skipping quite a bit. I guess its time to call cox and go pick up a different box at the warwick mall AGAIN! :mad:

Did anyone else get more audio dropouts while watching lost on their 6412 last night? I happened to be recording another show, which was SD, at the same time as lost, and my damn box couldn't keep up, it was skipping quite a bit. I guess its time to call cox and go pick up a different box at the warwick mall AGAIN! :mad:

Was your SD recording dropping out as well?

I had terrible drop outs in lost this week, but it really seems to be isolated to the ABC HD channel. There have been mentions by others that use OTA that they have the same issue, so I don't think its a COX or 6412 issue.

If you find a solution - keep me filled in!

Was your SD recording dropping out as well?

I had terrible drop outs in lost this week, but it really seems to be isolated to the ABC HD channel. There have been mentions by others that use OTA that they have the same issue, so I don't think its a COX or 6412 issue.

If you find a solution - keep me filled in!
Im not sure, I haven't watched it, it was recording for someone else. I really think the 6412, or atleast mine, needs more power. It seems that the processor cannot keep up at times.

[QUOTE=bcushman]Here's what I received yesterday from Cox:


Thank you for your inquiry. Cox is committed to providing the best customer service possible.


I received this same canned response months ago. It is what it is. If you can get these stations OTA you'll enjoy the better 8VSB over Cox's QAM256 anyway.

On a side note, I wonder if local advertisers are aware of the several occasions during national feed HD programming the SD switch fails causing their local spots to only be seen on the standard channel leaving HD viewers looking at a network banner for 30 to 60 sec. I verified this by switching to the SD channel, sure thing each time it was a local advertiser. I can only imagine what they pay for a 30 local spot during American Idol to have it missed by any viewer. I can't imagine they sell SD & HD separate leaving one channel dark on purpose. This has to be a blunder that maybe worth reporting to their advertisers.

It's about money and only money. If they BOTH choose to conduct themselves in a manner that is unfavorable to the consumer they will pay at the end. I have listed a few options you have to strike back below.

Vote with your dollars by doing some things to lower their share of your wallet:

Starting with Cox.

1) Cox Internet subscribers: Did you know that they offer an internet value tier for $24.95? It's 768kps. It's still considered high speed and it's still always on. I switched and have noticed no difference in page loads. Your average website is about 200k in size. Do the math. Most are waisting the extra bandwidth anyway.

2) Once you have this package, call back and tell them you saw an ad for Verizon DSL 768kps for 14.95 and COX will lower you to $14.95 mo. Or Switch to DSL.

3) Cox Phone subscribers. Switch to VONAGE. They offer unlimited local and long distance to anywhere in the USA, CANADA and Puerto Rico with every feature free (Caller ID, Call Waiting, 3way ect..) you could imagine. Most can even keep your same number. I have had it for months without any concerns or problems. For the TECHS out their you can do some really cool things with it.

For LINN

1) Send letters/emails to any local advertisers you see on the channel. Be fair and state the facts. The truth here says it all. The growing number of HD viewers means less eyes on their product on those channels in Rhode Island, minus those who are willing to climb onto the roof.

Personally I do use all of the bandwidth that cox provides, and am anxious for more. Many cox markets are up to 15mbit, while we, atleast I, am stuck at 5. I agree for normal page loading its not a big deal, but if you do a lot of downloading the higher the better :)

[QUOTE=bcushman]
For LINN

1) Send letters/emails to any local advertisers you see on the channel. Be fair and state the facts. The truth here says it all. The growing number of HD viewers means less eyes on their product on those channels in Rhode Island, minus those who are willing to climb onto the roof.

Just tell the Cardi Brothers to buy the damn stations.

After all with the money they're shelling out to Lin they would eventually get their monies worth if they purchase the stations right out.

:D

Did anyone else get more audio dropouts while watching lost on their 6412 last night? I happened to be recording another show, which was SD, at the same time as lost, and my damn box couldn't keep up, it was skipping quite a bit. I guess its time to call cox and go pick up a different box at the warwick mall AGAIN! :mad:
I noticed a few tonight. Up until last night, when I discovered this thread, I was getting concerned that this was maybe my problem. I had COX out here last Saturday replacing my DVR but they're still happening. Neither the COX tech or the Customer Service wench were aware of the sound issue, or at least that they would admit too.

Mine only seem to occur on HD OTA channels (700 and 702). And when the drop is prolonged I'm pretty sure I heard the sound of hard drive thrashing.

What happened to WGBH-HD on Cox? I used to get it on 107-2, and the NBC/Weather station on 107-4. Now I can only find the NBC/Weather on 102-4.

Hello

I just switched over to the DISH vip622 receiver and I cannot get any signal hit on CBS 12.1 (Ch. 13) in Providence..... The station indicates all is well, can anyone confirm if they are getting 12.1 in Rhode Island......?

Thanks.

Mitchman

12.1 is coming in perfectly in Pawtucket at 7:15 via my D* receivers.

SMK

Hi,

I was one of the first RI COX customers to get HDTV. It's over 2 years now and still no Fox or CBS so I went to Circuit City today and bought a OTA Samsung Receiver and TERK antenna. Everything works great! I was worried as I live in Burriville (lots of trees etc). So far the antenna is just layed flat on my desk but CBS and FOX (plus all the others are coming in loud and clear!).

Just couldn't wait for COX any more. I'll tell them EXACTLY why I'm cancelling my HDTV service tonight when I call them.

Sorry .... I meant to post Deck (outside) instead of Desk ... :)

I'm going to attach the terk to my house tomorrow.

Is something up with 6.1 WLNE? I get 6.1 and 12.1 (WPRI) here in metro-west boston much better than the local channels due to hills and trees. No signal from 6.1 for at least 2 days while 12.1 is solid. Using Samsung T451, Winegard roof/pre-amp...

I'm not getting 6.1 currently either. I don't know anything about any problems.

SMK

6.1 is OK here right now. John

Pool101, congrats on picking up local channels for free! The combination of free local channels over the air and DirecTV HD is the best choice in RI.

Pool101, congrats on picking up local channels for free! The combination of free local channels over the air and DirecTV HD is the best choice in RI.

My, my, my - now this is a real impartial comment. :rolleyes: Gee ..... I wonder where his allegiance lies? Say, look at the profile !!! Hmmm, perhaps he's a fan of Fat Karen Adams and friends - and the Simpsons too. "The best choice for RI" ?!?!?! Really ?!?!??

Anyone else in the suburbs having issues with WNAC-DT tonight?

My, my, my - now this is a real impartial comment. :rolleyes: Gee ..... I wonder where his allegiance lies? Say, look at the profile !!! Hmmm, perhaps he's a fan of Fat Karen Adams and friends - and the Simpsons too. "The best choice for RI" ?!?!?! Really ?!?!??

James, what is your problem with someone choosing to pick up WPRI & WNAC for free over the air, uncompressed by a cable company? You may choose to send your money to a cable company every month, but thousands of others have decided not to let the cable companies decide what they can watch. The real story will be how many people decide to switch to Verizon when they offer FIOS in RI very soon.

James, what is your problem .......... The real story will be how many people decide to switch to Verizon when they offer FIOS in RI very soon.
I know I will Be there~~~!! first to get FIOS~~

Screw YOU COX~~~!!...
and LIN toooo

Anyone else having PBS issues? WGBH HD via Cox cable is all broken up. Same holds true for the OTA signal.

Anyone else having PBS issues? WGBH HD via Cox cable is all broken up. Same holds true for the OTA signal.

They seem to have fix the HD problems last night.

Son of Cousteau had no problem walking around with seagull on head.

May have spotted crazy-glue on hat and claw in high rez.

They seem to have fix the HD problems last night.

Son of Cousteau had no problem walking around with seagull on head.

May have spotted crazy-glue on hat and claw in high rez.

Agreed, no problems last night on my end either. Thankfully they took care of the issue.

Regaring my previous post which contained a reply from Cox - in that reply they stated that none of the other local markets had reached an agreement with LIN. However, I notice on the Cox site, a list of RI/CT HD stations now includes CBS and Fox (Channels 701 & 704) in Connecticut. I think I'll write them again and ask how CT has the CBS coverage, but RI doesn't.

Lin does not own CBS or FOX in CT which is why they are currently getting those channels. They do, however, own ABC which is why it is not available in CT as of yet or possibly ever at this rate.

Lin does not own CBS or FOX in CT which is why they are currently getting those channels. They do, however, own ABC which is why it is not available in CT as of yet or possibly ever at this rate.
Yeah. It just makes NO sense why they haven't found a solution yet.

Nice to see Cox added NESN HD as a dedicated channel at 725 just in time for openning day. No longer need to piggyback on INHD2.

I know I will Be there~~~!! first to get FIOS~~

Screw YOU COX~~~!!...
and LIN toooo

You really think LIN and Verizon are going to be any better at working out a deal then Cox/LIN???

You really think LIN and Verizon are going to be any better at working out a deal then Cox/LIN???

Now that WJAR is in the hands of a LINN look a like this may speed things along. Do you think COX is arrogant enough to drop three major networks of their hd lineup?

What OTA channels are you all currently getting?

From memory, I get:
ABC 6, NBC 4 + 10, CBS 12, UPN 28, and FOX 64

What OTA channels are you all currently getting?

From memory, I get:
ABC 6, NBC 4 + 10, CBS 12, UPN 28, and FOX 64

Not sure what you mean by 'NBC 4'?
There's also PBS 36.

And from Boston (subchannels omitted):
PBS 2 & 44
ABC 5
NBC 7
CBS 4
UPN 38
FOX 25
WB 56

[and PAX is available too, but I don't know the channel]

Keith

Keith,

What kind of antenna are you using? My HD lineup seems pretty pitiful now!

Thanks

What OTA channels are you all currently getting?

From memory, I get:
ABC 6, NBC 4 + 10, CBS 12, UPN 28, and FOX 64

I live in Southern RI - I use a simple Radio Shack UHF antenna with a 25 dB amp. I receive the following digital channels:

MA:
2.1/2.2, 4.1, 5.1/5.2, 7.1, 25.1, 26.1/26.2/26.3/26.4, 27.1, 38.1, 44.1/44.2/44.3, 56.1, 66.1

RI:
6.1/6.2, 10.1/10.2, 12.1, 36.1, 64.1/64.2

Obviously many of the channels and sub-channels aren't very good programming, but you still get the digital signal anyway. A good tip, focus on UHF antenna, since almost all of the channels are broadcast in that range (eg. Chan. 10.1 = Ch. 51 before re-mapping)

Good Luck.
Mitchman

(EDIT - RS UHF Antenna = 40" Boom Length, 17 Elements Outdoor Antenna for UHF-Only) ~$25.00

Keith,

What kind of antenna are you using? My HD lineup seems pretty pitiful now!

Thanks

As Mitch indicated, even a simple antenna will work, but you'll probably need an amplifier to receive Boston.
I purchased this indoor/outdoor antenna back in 2000, and it came with an amplifier: http://www.starkelectronic.com/wgs2000.htm
[and it's small enough to hide under my couch in my rental apartment]

You could likely keep your antenna and just add on an amp.

Keith

My antenna is an indoor/outdoor antenna that I got from BestBuy in warwick. It's the RCA ANT706A.... Here's the link...

Click Here (http://accessories.rca.com/en-US/modeldetail.html?maincat=Antennas&subcat=Indoor+Antennas&modelnum=ANT706A)

should I return it and get a different one? Where can I get a good one locally?



Anyway, I had it indoors in my lower level and got good reception, but I figured maybe I could pick up Boston if I put it on the roof... I received two new stations for my work, 4.1 and 28...

See, I live in R.I., but I live in a small little valley where on all sides of me is hills... and I'm just outside of Providence. I can get DirecTv because I can point the dish right, but I noticed a house near me with Antennas on the roof... I don't know if they're still using them... but they were on like 5 foot masts with braces... so I figure that unless I want to install a monster on my roof then I am stuck....

I could go to Cox, but I'll be getting what, NESN HD... they don't even have 12 from what I've heard... DirecTv doesn't have local HDs for R.I.... and neither does DISH... any suggestions?

RamsFan,
You don't mention using an amplifier. If you don't have one, that's what you need to try first to possibly receive more channels. If the amp doesn't work, just return it, or keep it temporarily while trying a different antenna.
Someone else would need to recommend a specific amp, because mine came with the antenna (although you could also try the company I linked to for a recommendation).


Keith

Keith,

The specs from the site says it has a "10dB power injector boosts UHF/VHF signals". Is this the same as an amplifier? I have to plug it in and there is a small attachment that plugs in electrically and takes the antenna coax and plugs into the TV antenna coax.

Thanks so much for your help on this.

RamsFan

Yes, just a simple signal amplifier, like these for example:

http://www.radioshack.com/family/index.jsp?categoryId=2032207&cp=2032057.2032187.2032189&allCount=43&fbc=1&f=PAD%2FProduct+Type%2FAmplifiers&fbn=Type%2FAmplifiers

Buy and try one of these, or similar, locally and just return if no good.
An amplifier anywhere from 10db up to 25-30db should work.

Any Electronics/Antenna stores left in R.I. besides RS's, CC's, and BB's? Even Bennies don't have antennas anymore. If you're an installer PM me... if the price is right, and I can get the Boston HD stations, it might be worth it for me.

***************************************
Keith,

I tried an amplifier from RS last night.. I already had one on, so adding another didn't help....

Thanks tho!

Started picking up 2 new channels on dish 811. They are listed as 27-05 East and 27-07 Arizo. They seem to be showing Fox64 programming. Does anyone know what they are and where they are from? Thanks
JohnR

They seem to be just redundant lables of channels transmitted by WNAC-DT channel 54. Maybe they have plans to add more subchannels. John

Once again, Law & Order CI on WJAR was not in HD until after the first 15 minutes or so. When are they going to remember to throw the switch??

Has WJAR Channel 10 stopped broadcasting the digital signal on 10.1 Over the Air (OTA) ?? For some reason I don't have a signal anymore on that channel. Its been like that for a few days. I used to get it in very strong. Is it down?

I do get it on the cable , just not over the air.

- Ken

Has WJAR Channel 10 stopped broadcasting the digital signal on 10.1 Over the Air (OTA) ?? For some reason I don't have a signal anymore on that channel. Its been like that for a few days. I used to get it in very strong. Is it down?

I do get it on the cable , just not over the air.

- Ken

Nope, its coming in loud and clear here.

10.1 is fine for me... the 27.x channels are in and out for me.

6 has a little black box at the top when broadcasting 4:3 over 6.1 unless I stretch it... it also shows some "bright digital pixels" on the upper left of the screen... anybody esle see those.... it's the only station that's a little screwy for me when they broadcast in 4:3.

10.1 is fine for me... the 27.x channels are in and out for me.

6 has a little black box at the top when broadcasting 4:3 over 6.1 unless I stretch it... it also shows some "bright digital pixels" on the upper left of the screen... anybody esle see those.... it's the only station that's a little screwy for me when they broadcast in 4:3.

I don't get the pixel thing but I do get a 4:3 image from them that is shifted downward on my screen and it reveals some junk that is not supposed to be displayed up top. This is magnified by the image not being centered correctly through the service menu on my TV, a problem to be fixed shortly by calibration. FWIW I get this from OTA 6-1 and Cox 702 on ABC6. It also shows up on my Fox 25-1 OTA from Mass.

It is now MAY and still no HD cbs or fox through cox. So aggravating.

I don't get the pixel thing but I do get a 4:3 image from them that is shifted downward on my screen and it reveals some junk that is not supposed to be displayed up top. This is magnified by the image not being centered correctly through the service menu on my TV, a problem to be fixed shortly by calibration. FWIW I get this from OTA 6-1 and Cox 702 on ABC6. It also shows up on my Fox 25-1 OTA from Mass.
I don't know if I would calibrate the TV based on 6 and 25... it seems to be a problem with their signal, not your TV.... On my TV I can use wide zoom for 4:3 content and that fixes it for me so I don't see it.

It is now MAY and still no HD cbs or fox through cox. So aggravating.
That's why I'm waiting. I have OTA HD, but I'm not sure whether to go with Cox, DirecTv (which I currently have minus HD), and DISH. If they all get me too PO'd I might just stay with OTA... I do wish I had NESN HD tho....

Are you guys sure the only place to get NESN HD is through Cox?

[QUOTE=StlRamsFan777
Are you guys sure the only place to get NESN HD is through Cox?[/QUOTE]

As far as I know Cox is the only way to see the Sox in HD. I have had DirecTV for about 6 years and have just gotten Cox mainly for their HD package so I can see the Sox. Also got their HD DVR and after having the HD TiVo am pleasantly surprised at how good the Motorolla 6412 works. IMO the picture quality of the Cox HD channels is better than D* and I am actually getting more total channels for less money, even after my specials run out.

I am using the HD Tivo (HR10-250) for OTA HD (Channels 12 and 64) until LIN and Cox end their pissing contest, but hate not being able to record with it now.

I don't know if I would calibrate the TV based on 6 and 25... it seems to be a problem with their signal, not your TV.... On my TV I can use wide zoom for 4:3 content and that fixes it for me so I don't see it.


I'm not having the calibration done to fix centering specifically for those two channels, I'm having it done for grayscale, color decoder, alignment etc. My image is centered too low on all inputs regardless of source. It just happens to show up more on those two channels because of the junk they leave visible outside of normal overscan limits. Centering my image properly on the screen as part of the calibration I'm paying for will also get rid of that visible junk on those two channels. Just a bonus. I'm not a fan of stretch-o-vision, though my Tosh offers a nice version of it.

DVRed HD Sopranos tonight and it was so broken up as to be unwatchable. Anybody else have the same issue? I'm using the COX HD-DVR.

DVRed HD Sopranos tonight and it was so broken up as to be unwatchable. Anybody else have the same issue? I'm using the COX HD-DVR.

Had the same problem on mine. Recently had to have the box replaced because it did that stuff all the time, thought this machine may be on the fritz too.

Haven't watched it yet, but just checked and it recorded fine on my Cox HD DVR. However, I too had to have the box changed right after I signed up with Cox, as it was breaking up, especially on the analog channels. Got the Phase III box as a replacement so gained on the deal!

It is now MAY and still no HD cbs or fox through cox. So aggravating.


I would forget about LIN and their affiliates. They sure have no problem forgetting about you. Why would you even want to tune in to them at this point?

I think we would have a better shot at getting this new network that combines UPN & WB into something they call the CW. They will be offering 13 hours network HD programming almost every night.

Their call letters are WLWC-DT and their about to double in size because of this merger. Right now they are still know as UPN 28, but that's about to change.
I think we have a better shot at expanding the quality of our HD line-up if we would all push to get them on Cox.

WLWC-DT
1 State Street
Providence, RI 002908

Phone 401-351-8828

;)

I get 28 OTA but their HD is always in 4:3.

The only reason to get Cox is NESN HD. I still can't get myself to pull the trigger on it though. Just like the only reason to get DirecTv is NFL Season ticket.... which I'm not going to keep anyway...

UPN 38-1 is available to at least the northern half of RI OTA with a decent antenna (for now). PQ on the only show I've seen (Everybody Hates Chis) is top notch.

DVRed HD Sopranos tonight and it was so broken up as to be unwatchable. Anybody else have the same issue? I'm using the COX HD-DVR.
It happens to me when it is live and I am recording another show, like desperate housewives. You would think that a cable box with two tuners could handle doing two things! This happens to me when I am watching almost any HD show and am recording another show, HD or SD. This is my second box, and I dont feel like getting another, but I may if it will fix this problem.

Add me to the list of those who had horrible break up for Sunday Sopranos. I watched the DVR'd version last night for the first time and it looked to be suffering from low signal strength with tons of freezes, tiling and audio drop outs. I had recorded another show (SD) simultaneously, but we do that every Sunday and it never has caused a problem in the past. Pretty inexcusable to have the show look the way it did.

It happens to me when it is live and I am recording another show, like desperate housewives. You would think that a cable box with two tuners could handle doing two things! This happens to me when I am watching almost any HD show and am recording another show, HD or SD. This is my second box, and I dont feel like getting another, but I may if it will fix this problem.

I actually watched Desperate OTA while recording Sopranos from cable. Should have no effect on quality of Soprano recording, but I still had the same issues as others.

They seem to be just redundant lables of channels transmitted by WNAC-DT channel 54. Maybe they have plans to add more subchannels. John

I would guess that they are testing on their new frequency as they will soon have to turn off 54 and 64 for that matter.

I actually watched Desperate OTA while recording Sopranos from cable. Should have no effect on quality of Soprano recording, but I still had the same issues as others.

I had the same issue when I finally got around to watching last week's (5/7) sopranos... it got so bad that I switched to the ondemand SD version... rather watch a show with a crappy picture than freezes/audio drops every minute.

BTW - HW ABC (701?) has gotten a lot better as of late but still get audio drops on lost...

I had the same issue when I finally got around to watching last week's (5/7) sopranos... it got so bad that I switched to the ondemand SD version... rather watch a show with a crappy picture than freezes/audio drops every minute.

BTW - HW ABC (701?) has gotten a lot better as of late but still get audio drops on lost...


So everyone gets these audio drops? I thought this was just me, and I was getting ready to get a new box, but I guess that won't really help me.

hey guys,
I'm an HDTV noob and had some questions for everyone about Cox's local HDTV services.

I've pretty much decided on purchasing a Sharp 26' LCD HDTV with a cable card function.

I already have Directv (non-HDTV) and really would only be interested in the HD channels Cox has, like NESN for the Sox games.

Is there any sort of tier Cox has that enables you to get HDTV without subscribing to their entire digital cable service? I'm not totally up to speed on the cable card issue or if Cox supports it, nor do I really get the "in the clear" channels I see mentioned on some cable carriers...or if Cox has any of those.

Any suggestions or comments would be appreciated :) I'd rather not end up spending $50-$60 or more on Cox's digital cable just for their HD channels, though I'm guessing that's what it will take, predictably. If someone can figure out the most resonable solution for me (can I live with an off-the-air antenna minus the Red Sox in HD??), I'll be most appreciative!

cheers,
Andy

You do need to be in the digital tier to get the HD line up. If your set has an ATSC tuner you can get all the major networks (NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, PBS etc) with a decent antenna, subject to location and interference etc. ESPN and NESN do not broadcast OTA so you're SOL unless you go cable or similar. If you end up going cable I'd skip the cable card and use HD DVR. Really nice to add the flexiblity.

You do need to be in the digital tier to get the HD line up. If your set has an ATSC tuner you can get all the major networks (NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox, PBS etc) with a decent antenna, subject to location and interference etc. ESPN and NESN do not broadcast OTA so you're SOL unless you go cable or similar. If you end up going cable I'd skip the cable card and use HD DVR. Really nice to add the flexiblity.

Thanks toenail. I've noticed some of the newer sets are dropping cable card so if/when I do go for the digital tier I will skip that possibility.

Just to clarify, about how much would it cost just to get the hd channels from cox, Im assuming too much if you already have directv.

Just to clarify, about how much would it cost just to get the hd channels from cox, Im assuming too much if you already have directv.

That's what I assumed too TVBob. As it is I only need Cox for HD but I'm guessing you need their entire digital tier to have access to the HD channels, which is too bad.

I had the TV rescan the OTA channels and it found 10.1 and is working fine. Not sure why it lost it to begin with.

It looks like Cox dropped 2.2 PBS HD on the standard cable feed. Does anyone else get 2.1 on the cable using thier built in tuner hooked up to the analog cable feed ?

- Ken

That's what I assumed too TVBob. As it is I only need Cox for HD but I'm guessing you need their entire digital tier to have access to the HD channels, which is too bad.


It kind of depends on what you want. Plug thier basic analog cable into a tv with a digital tuner and you can grab 6.1 and 10.1 off the cable.

Not to mention a whole bunch of Spanish channels :)

I used to be able to get 2.1 also but not right now for some reason.

- Ken

PBS HD is still there, it just moved to a different channel. I'll check it tonight when I get home.

Thanks toenail. I've noticed some of the newer sets are dropping cable card so if/when I do go for the digital tier I will skip that possibility.


The real benefit with a cable card is superior tuning. You won't have access to a complete channel guide and can't use any demand channels. On a 26inch set I think the cons out weigh the pros.

As far as Cox you would to have to subscribe to the basic package ( $42 bucks most places in RI) and at least the digital gateway($4.95) for the HD channels. If your adding this as secondary service then skip the DVR and use the cable card as you'll save $13 a month.

The real benefit with a cable card is superior tuning. You won't have access to a complete channel guide and can't use any demand channels. On a 26inch set I think the cons out weigh the pros.

As far as Cox you would to have to subscribe to the basic package ( $42 bucks most places in RI) and at least the digital gateway($4.95) for the HD channels. If your adding this as secondary service then skip the DVR and use the cable card as you'll save $13 a month.

Can you elaborate about the tuning ability? Is the digital signal via HDMI from the STB any different from the one via cable card?

FYI, I received the following reply to my query regarding digital simulcasting:

"We have received your recent email regarding our Digital Simulcasting.
Currently, we are upgrading all of our systems in Rhode Island + Connecticut, and expect to be completed sometime between the end of August and December."

I'm still not geting guide data for either 28-1 or 36-1 on my HR1250. I also don't get HD programming on 28-1, altho when I check on 38-1 the program is in HD. And what about 36-1 - when do they plan to offer HD programming?

Within the last week or so I've finally been getting Guide Data for 28-1. They're still not in HD yet, though :(

Is it just my imagination or are all of the Sox games played in Toronto done at 9300k? Seems like the games are incredibly blue and excessively bright. All other road/home games look normal comparatively.

I noticed the same thing watching the last 3 games against Toronto. Also it looked like there was a yellow tint to the players faces. Maybe it has something to do with the lighting inside the dome.

Yes, definitely a greenish/yellow tint to flesh tones. I find it hard to believe it is simply the lighting and surroundings that give everything that appearance though.

Within the last week or so I've finally been getting Guide Data for 28-1. They're still not in HD yet, though :(

Has anyone received an explanation on why 28-1 isn't broadcasting in HD?

Has anyone received an explanation on why 28-1 isn't broadcasting in HD?
You haven't asked.

We have had a problem with our microwave link that carries the HD signal to the transmitter site. The fix is due to arrive in about two weeks, and installation will take a while.

We're expecting to have everything buttoned down in time for the fall season.

Thanks Bob for the update.

Can you elaborate about the tuning ability? Is the digital signal via HDMI from the STB any different from the one via cable card?

Without elaborating into the specifics of the demodulation of QAM256. Basically the money in cable service is in programming/service not equipment. Most STB's are built for cost not quality. The TV manufacture is selling the picture quality so better components and circuity designs are used.

Rumor has it that Comcast is buying out Cox Cable. What do you guys think this will mean for us as far as HD channels?

If you don't mind me asking where did you hear that rumor ?
Is the sale for a single system somewhere maby ?

Rumor has it that Comcast is buying out Cox Cable. What do you guys think this will mean for us as far as HD channels?
Yeah I haven't heard that rumour either. Isn't cox the third biggest in the country? That would be a HUGE deal.

Well I first heard it from a friend but I didn't want to start spreading the rumor. Then I was over his house helping him move and the cable guy showed up. So we asked him and he said that it's true but there was no specific time for the transition.

is anyone else failing to get the HD feed for the games on WLNE? this is the second straight day for me. When I call, I get the *shrug* response. This is ridiculous. ABC has been spouting off how every game will be high def, but Cox can't come through. This is ridiculous. :mad:

they flipped the switch finally :) glad to know that Cox is so on the ball that I'm going to have to call in everyday to get the HD feed :rolleyes:

they flipped the switch finally :) glad to know that Cox is so on the ball that I'm going to have to call in everyday to get the HD feed :rolleyes:

You should be calling WLNE instead of COX - COX is just sending along what they get from WLNE.

Has anyone heard if and when Cox will add ESPN 2 HD to their HD lineup? A large majority of the World Cup games, especially in the group phase, are on the deuce. This sucks I was looking forward to watching "ALL" the games in HD, guess not. Thanks alot COX!
I called the other day asking about it, the sales critter could only put in an "official" request or the channel. He had not heard of any plans to add the channel, but they are always like the last to know anyway! THIS SUCKS!!

Has anyone heard if and when Cox will add ESPN 2 HD to their HD lineup? A large majority of the World Cup games, especially in the group phase, are on the deuce. This sucks I was looking forward to watching "ALL" the games in HD, guess not. Thanks alot COX!
I called the other day asking about it, the sales critter could only put in an "official" request or the channel. He had not heard of any plans to add the channel, but they are always like the last to know anyway! THIS SUCKS!!

I just called and used the "cancel service" line to threaten to end all my TV service with Cox. I know the lady on the other end doesn't know anything about the ongoing negotiations with LIN, but I cited Cox' lack of urgency when it comes to adding popular channels like ESPN2 and more recently, ESPN2HD.

I also was pissed that ABC6, that lowlife TV station, was again unable to get their HD transmission turned on for the last 2 world cup games (since they had it working for the first one Saturday morning). I called them too and they're so clueless. They wonder why people skip through commercials and don't support the advertisers on their stations. Idiots, all of them.

I can't wait for Fios TV! That looks like an excellent all around deal. I'll never go satellite. Terrestrial networks of physical media are always best. Cox' days are numbered in my home.

Rumor has it that Comcast is buying out Cox Cable. What do you guys think this will mean for us as far as HD channels?

Does ANYONE have ANY info on this? Man, this would be awesome. I had Comcast up in MA and let me tell you.....SO much better. More HD channels, even the "hard to aquire" local channels :), better OS on the DVR, better On Demand system, (does any else's On Demand crap out 60% of the time?), seemingly more channels, etc, etc.

The only thing that COX gave me was a "faster" download speed, which I never come close to hitting anyway.

Seriously, is this just a hoax or is there some truth and possibility of this?

Any word on when FiOS TV will be available in RI area?? From looking at Verizon's website their HD lineup is much better than Cox. It's available in the MA area allready so hopefully RI is not far behind. Fed up with Cox !!!!

Any word on when FiOS TV will be available in RI area?? From looking at Verizon's website their HD lineup is much better than Cox. It's available in the MA area allready so hopefully RI is not far behind. Fed up with Cox !!!!

I just got FIOS internet/phone installed at my home in Warwick RI. The installer said it should be a few months for TV. Verizon has already started the paperwork with the RI PUC. The documents are at http://www.ripuc.org/utilityinfo/cabletv.html
I have held off on upgrading my Dish 6000 to a Dish VIP622 HD DVR since Verizon TV may not be to far in the future.

Howard

I live in Westport, MA 50 miles south/southwest of Boston. Up until a few days or a week ago I recieved 25-1 and 68-1,2,3,4. I don't care about 68 (I still get 69), but I do care about 25. Anyone experiencing the same problem or know of a reason why 25 is no longer available in my area? Any info would be appreciated.
R, Dave

P.S Has Verizon established FIOS service in your area? In Westport we have Charter and they are useless (no high def and very limited cable channels). Everyone here who gives a damn has satellite (DTV or DISH) and wishes Verizon would provide the service required for cable and internet, but they don't. They don't provide internet to my neighborhood either. I'm stuck with DirectV and Charter. Over the Air is great thanks to the DTV D10 and the Boston stations, although I lost 25-1 recently and don't know why.

A recent email I sent to Cox regarding their HD lineup or lack thereof, prompted this response:

Dear Mr. Pinho:

Thank you for your inquiry. Cox is committed to providing the best
customer service possible.

We have received your recent e-mail. We sincerely apologize for any
inconvenience this has caused. At this time, there has been no
decision made as to whether we will be carrying ESPN2HD.

Please be advised that our decisions to add or remove programming are
based on three (3) factors:

* Research - which we conduct annually
* Customer input - such as your e-mail request
* Viewership - as measured by Nielsen or other rating services

Your request will be carefully factored as we look to future
programming
changes. We do maintain a file on all customer correspondence
concerning
programming and will forward your request to the New England
Programming
Manager.

Second, we apologize again for the lengthy delay in providing you CBS
and Fox in HD. We realize the explanation that negotiations are ongoing
is not sufficient enough. However, it is the truth. The negotiations
for
these HD channels are taking an extraordinarily long time. Over the
past
2 years, we've been negotiating, on a local level, with all the local
broadcasters to obtain rights to distribute their HD signals. We were
successful with the local broadcasters for NBC and ABC. However, WNAC
Fox Ch. 64 and WPRI Ch. 12 in Rhode Island remain the only local
broadcast channels with whom we have not been successful at negotiating
a HD deal. These stations are owned by LIN Broadcasting, who also owns
other broadcast stations in the following Cox markets: Connecticut,
Virginia, Florida and Texas. There has been no progress in any these
markets either. In November 2005, Cox New England had solicited the
help
of our corporate office in Atlanta to negotiate a deal on a national
basis with LIN Broadcasting. We are hoping this will expedite a deal
for
our local broadcast channels.

In the meantime, we understand some of the marquee programming is being
broadcast on CBS and Fox. Our wish is that we will be able to offer you
this HD experience, as well as every other marquee event in HD.

We hope that we have been able to provide you with the information you
requested. If you need additional information regarding other Cox
products or services, please visit our web site at www.cox.com.



Thank you.
Rodney
Cox Communications Online Customer Care Team

:mad: :mad: :mad:

A recent email I sent to Cox regarding their HD lineup or lack thereof, prompted this response:

Dear Mr. Pinho:
:mad: :mad: :mad:


There is a Bill in the U.S. Sente that we can get behind that will keep Broadcasters like LIN and Cable companies from holding us hostage to their greed.

Cable Industry Faces a la Carte Proposal


By Doug Halonen TVWeek.com June 7, 2006

Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., introduced legislation Wednesday that encourages the cable TV industry and other video service providers to offer programming a la carte.

Under the measure, video service providers that offer a la carte to their own subscribers -- and permit programming they own to be offered a la carte by independently owned distributors -- would be rewarded with substantial deregulation.

In addition, the legislation would punish broadcast companies that don't permit cable TV programming they own to be offered a la carte. A la carte programming would allow subscribers to choose and pay for only the programming they want.

Cable TV operators that go along would be rewarded by being allowed to switch to a new national franchising system that would allow them to escape key obligations they currently face under existing franchise agreements with local governmental authorities.

Broadcast owners of cable TV programming that decline to play ball would lose their current legal protection of the exclusivity of their network-affiliated programming in their communities.

If approved, the legislation would be a particularly severe blow to major broadcast TV networks that have substantial interests in cable programming networks, including The Walt Disney Co.'s ABC, NBC Universal and Fox.

If networks don't agree to the a la carte stipulations, cable TV operators in communities in which the networks own television stations would be free to bring in the signals of independently owned stations affiliated with the same networks.

In a statement, the watchdog Consumers Union, a longtime proponent of a la carte, said it does not endorse Sen. McCain's measure because "it goes too far in eliminating important public obligations of video service providers to ensure nondiscriminatory delivery of cable service, diversity of local programming and essential consumer protections, including the timely and successful resolution of consumer complaints."

And for those who like to learn and do more than RI's favaorite passtime of just "complaining" to getting involved...

Press Release from Sen. John McCain)

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator John McCain (R-AZ) introduced the Consumers Having Options in Cable Entertainment (CHOICE) Act of 2006. The bill is designed to encourage broadcasters and cable companies that own cable channels to sell their channels individually to subscribers. It also promotes cable channel distribution over the Internet.

Below is Senator McCain’s floor statement that was submitted for the record today, the bill summary, and a copy of the of the opinion editorial by Senator McCain and FCC Chairman Martin as it appeared in the Los Angeles Times on May 25, 2006. Attached is a copy of the legislation.


STATEMENT OF SENATOR JOHN MCCAIN ON THE INTRODUCTION OF THE CONSUMERS HAVING OPTIONS IN CABLE ENTERTAINMENT (CHOICE) ACT OF 2006

June 7, 2006

MR. MCCAIN. Mr. President, today I am introducing the Consumers Having Options in Cable Entertainment (CHOICE) Act of 2006. This bill would encourage broadcasters and cable companies that own cable channels to sell their channels individually to subscribers. It would also promote cable programming distribution over the Internet.

For almost ten years I have supported giving consumers the ability to buy cable channels individually, also known as a la carte, to provide consumers with more control over the viewing options in their home and their monthly cable bill. Cable companies have resisted this and have continued to give consumers all the “choice” of a North Korean election ballot. There is only one option available: buy a package of channels, whether you watch all the channels or not. The alternative is to not receive cable programming at all. Why have cable companies and cable programmers refused to give consumers the ability to buy and pay for only those channels consumers watch? Simply because they do not have to. They are the only game in town. But not for long, I hope.

Telephone companies have realized that consumers want more and are poised to provide consumers across the nation with an alternative to the local cable company. Many of these telephone companies, including AT&T, are also ready to offer consumers the ability to purchase channels a la carte. Such companies will offer two crucial benefits to consumers: more competition in the video service provider market, and more options for programming packages. Together, these two offerings will allow consumers to have greater control over the content that enters the home and the ability to manage their monthly cable bills.

According to a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report, in communities where there are two cable companies competing for customers, cable rates are 15 percent less than in communities without any competition. A subsequent GAO study suggests that in some markets the presence of another cable competitor may reduce rates by an astounding 41 percent. Unfortunately, today less then five percent of communities have two companies competing to provide consumers cable television service.

The CHOICE Act would help bring competition to the cable television market. Choice in cable television delivery is long overdue for consumers who have suffered steep rate hikes year after year. Since 1996, cable rates have increased 58 percent or nearly three times the rate of inflation. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has found that rates increased seven percent in 2001 and 2002, and five percent in 2003. The FCC’s most recent report found that rates again rose five percent in 2004, double the rate of inflation, but only 3.6% where the local cable company faced competition. I can only imagine the savings consumers could reap if presented with a choice of providers of cable service and a choice of channels. For this reason I call on Congress to pass the CHOICE Act.

A recent USA Today/Gallup poll found that a majority of Americans would like to buy cable channels individually and an AP/ Ipsos poll found that a remarkable 78 percent of Americans would like to do so. According to Nielsen Media Research, households receiving more than 70 channels only watch, on average, about 17 of these. Consumers know that they could have greater control over their monthly bill if given the ability to choose their channels. This was recently confirmed by the FCC. This year the FCC found that consumers could save as much as 13 percent on their monthly cable bills if they could buy only the channels they want.

Mr. President, consider the situation of a senior citizen on fixed income living in Sun City, Arizona, who watches only a few news and movie channels, but continues to pay for high priced channels such as ESPN, Fox Sports, and MTV – channels that other consumers enjoy, but channels that certain seniors may not want and possibly cannot afford. In fact, the general manager of the Sun City cable system has told my staff that he has tried to drop several expensive music video channels from the company’s channel lineup to make room for channels his viewers want to receive and to decrease costs, but the owners of the music video channels have forbid him to do so without serious repercussions. So the residents of Sun City continue to subsidize the cost of these channels for viewers around the country. That is why AARP, representing 35 million senior citizens, supports the ability for viewers to buy channels on an a la carte basis. But again, cable companies don’t have to listen to these 35 million viewers because there is no real threat of losing them. They have nowhere to turn.

The CHOICE ACT, Mr. President, is not a mandate on cable providers. Instead it is designed to encourage choice and competition by granting significant regulatory relief to video service providers, such as telephone and cable companies, that agree to both offer cable channels on an a la carte basis to subscribers and to not prohibit any channel owned by the video service provider from being sold individually. In exchange, video service providers would receive the right to obtain a national franchise; would be permitted to pay lower fees to municipalities for the use of public rights of way; would benefit from a streamlined definition of “gross video revenue” for the calculation of such fees; and would gain a prohibition on the solicitation of institutional networks, in-kind donation, and unlimited public access channels.

In addition, broadcasters that have an ownership stake in a cable channel would get the benefit of the FCC’s network non-duplications rule if the broadcaster does not prohibit the channel from being sold individually. The FCC’s network non-duplication rule provides exclusivity for broadcasters by not allowing another broadcaster with the same network affiliation from broadcasting in the same community. The bill would also modify Section 616(a) of the Communications Act that currently prohibits video service providers from using coercion or retaliatory tactics to prevent cable channels from making their services available to competing companies to extend this provision to distribution over the Internet.

For example, if Time Warner Cable offered CNN, a cable channel it owns, on an a la carte basis to its cable subscribers and allowed other cable companies, satellite companies, and video programmers who choose to distribute CNN to make it available on an a la carte basis, Time Warner Cable would be eligible for a national franchise and other regulatory relief. If Disney, which owns ESPN, allowed other cable companies, satellite companies, and video programmers who choose to distribute ESPN to make it available on an a la carte basis, the Disney’s ABC broadcast stations would have the benefit of the FCC’s network non-duplication rule.

Mr. President, contrary to what some might want the American people to believe, the CHOICE Act does not force video service providers or broadcasters to do a single thing. It is their choice whether to act or not act. The bill provides them with such a choice even though they currently don’t provide meaningful choices to their customers. This bill is incentive-based legislation that would encourage owners of cable channels to make channels available for individual purchase and would do nothing to prevent cable companies from continuing to offer a bundle of channels or tiers of channels.

The cable industry regularly touts the value of its package of channels, noting that it costs less than taking a family of four to a movie or professional sporting event. However, watching cable television is not always a family event. Several channels have programming that consumers find objectionable or that parents believe is unsuitable for young children. Complaints about indecent cable programming have increased exponentially in recent years. In 2004, the FCC received 700 percent more cable indecency complaints than it received in 2003. Most of the cable programs about which indecency complaints have been filed with the FCC aired during hours when many children are watching television.

Cable and satellite companies currently provide subscribers with a variety of methods of blocking the audio and video programming of any channel that they do not wish to receive. However, subscribers are still required to pay for these channels that they find objectionable. The “v-chip” does not effectively protect children from indecent programming carried by video programming distributors. Most of the television sets currently in use in the United States are not equipped with a v-chip; of the 280 million sets currently in United States households, approximately 161 million television sets are not equipped with a v-chip. Households that have a television set with a v-chip are also likely to have one or more sets that are not equipped with a v-chip.

Again, Mr. President, I am aware that not all consumers want to block and not pay for certain channels, but shouldn’t all consumers should have the choice to do so? Cable programmers and broadcasters have started offering individual television programs for download on the Internet. This is the purest form of a la carte – where one can watch and pay for only specific programs they choose. In addition, many of these same broadcasters and cable programmers make their channels available for individual purchase in Hong Kong, Canada, and other countries. Why do these cable programmers treat the American cable subscriber differently than a subscriber in Hong Kong or Canada or an Internet user? It remains unclear.

Lastly, Mr. President, I know that the cable programmers and broadcasters will not be the only group that may have some concerns with this bill. Many of my friends in local government are also likely to be interested in the reduced “rights of way” fee and streamlined definition of “gross video revenue” under this bill. Cable companies pay these fees to municipalities to use the right-of-way land under sidewalks, streets and bridges to reach customers’ homes and then pass these fees on to subscribers. However, these fees often surpass the costs of managing “rights of way” land and municipalities use these funds for other expenditures. Just last month at a hearing before the Senate Commerce Committee, Michael A. Guido, Mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, confirmed that these fees are often used to pay for other city expenses, such as emergency vehicles.

In 2004, state and local governments collected approximately $2.4 billion in these fees, slightly more than $37 per year from every household subscriber. Americans for Tax Reform believes that the “franchise fee is just a stealth tax on our consumption of the cable television,” as do other economists and tax payer advocacy groups. To this end, the legislature in my home state of Arizona just recently passed a bill to reduce such fees and taxes on cable television subscribers.

The Phoenix Center, a non-partisan legal and economic think tank, has found that the introduction of competition to cable companies could allow the fee to be lowered “significantly without doing any harm to local governments.” Based upon this research, the CHOICE Act would reduce the fee from 5 percent to 3.7 percent for eligible video service providers and allow local governments to petition the FCC for a higher fee if it is necessary to cover the costs of managing “rights of way” land. I believe this would provide some real cost savings to cable subscribers.

I remain open to working with municipalities on this issue and look forward to working with all interested parties to ensure that American consumers receive greater options for affordable and acceptable television viewing. Mr. President, I hope the introduction of the CHOICE Act furthers the debate on the issue of a la carte channel selection and I look forward to the Senate’s consideration of the bill.



Summary: The CHOICE Act

“Consumers Having Options in Cable Entertainment Act”

This bill would grant significant regulatory relief to video service providers who agree to both offer cable channels on an a la carte basis to subscribers and not prohibit any channel owned by the video service provider from being sold individually.

In exchange for offering consumers cable channels on an a la carte basis, video service providers would receive the right to obtain a national franchise, would be permitted to pay lower fees to municipalities for the use of public rights of way, would benefit from a streamlined definition of “gross video revenue” for the calculation of such fees, and would gain a prohibition on the solicitation of institutional networks, in-kind donation, and unlimited PEG channels.

Broadcasters with an ownership stake in a cable channel would get the benefit of the FCC’s network non-duplication rule if the broadcaster does not prohibit the channel from being sold individually. Lastly, the bill would extend Section 616(a) of the Communications Act to extend this provision to distribution over the Internet.

Below is a more detailed summary of the bill.

Section One
Sets forth the title of the bill, “Consumers Having Options in Cable Entertainment Act.”

Section Two
Defines the terms “a la carte,” “video service,” “video service provider” and “eligible video service provider.”
o A “video service provider” is defined as a provider of video services that uses a public right of way. This definition would cover all wired providers, including cable companies and telephone companies such as Comcast, Cox, Verizon, and AT&T. This definition would not apply to direct broadcast satellite (DBS) providers such as Dish Network and DirecTV who are not required to seek a franchise under current law.

o An “eligible video service provider” is defined as:
(1) a video service provider that (i) has an attributable interest in a cable channel offered on the basic tier of a digital cable system, (ii) makes available that cable channel available to its subscribers individually, (iii) does not prohibit other providers from offering this channel individually and (iv) files with the FCC a declaration of its intent to offer its subscribers on an individual basis any cable channel provided to it on an individual basis.
OR
(2) a video service provider that does not have an attributable interest in a cable channel and files with the FCC a declaration of its intent to offer its subscribers on an individual basis any cable channel provided to it on an individual basis.


Section Three
Sets forth the regulatory relief for Eligible Video Service Providers:
o Dissolution of a local franchise, in favor of a national franchise;
o Termination of a “franchise fee” set at 5% of gross revenues in favor of a “rights of way fee” set at 3.7% of “gross video revenues;”
o Prohibition on in-kind contributions or institutional networks, unless such donations are credited against the calculation of “gross video revenues;”
o Streamlining of definition of “gross video revenues” from current statutory definition of “gross revenues;”
o Establishment of a dispute resolution process for disputes regarding the use of a municipalities’ “rights of way;”
o Modification of FCC’s rules on “public, educational, or governmental” (PEG) channels to require video service providers to make available at least three PEG channels and to necessitate municipalities who program PEG channels to provide at least eight hours of programming a day with four hours of non-repeat programming; and,
o Establishes an effective date of six months after enactment.

Section Four
This section states that broadcasters with an ownership stake in a cable channel would get the benefit of the FCC’s network non-duplication rule only if the broadcaster permits the cable channel to be sold individually. The FCC’s network non-duplication rule states that upon the request of a local television station with exclusive rights to distribute a network or syndicated program, a cable operator generally may not carry a duplicating program broadcast by a distant station. The Commission’s rules generally provide stations such protection within a station’s 35-mile geographic zone.

Section Five
Amends Section 616(a) of the Communications Act that currently prohibits video service providers from using coercion to prevent cable channels from making their services available to competing companies to extend the prohibition to other distribution systems, including the Internet.

Section Six
This section states that the FCC has the authority to prescribe any rules and regulations to carry out the CHOICE Act.

Section Seven
Sets forth a severability clause.

All,

I currently have the limited basic cable TV package from Cox. It's like $11/month. Is it true that if I plug the cable into the back of my newly ordered HDTV I will be able to get the local HDTV channels for free?

Also, if I want to get the additional HD channels (like NESN HD for the Sox games), can I get them if I order the Digital Gateway package? The digital gateway package is like $4.95.

Basically, what is the minimum amount of money it'll cost me to get the most HD content?

Thanks.

-BL

All,

I currently have the limited basic cable TV package from Cox. It's like $11/month. Is it true that if I plug the cable into the back of my newly ordered HDTV I will be able to get the local HDTV channels for free?

Also, if I want to get the additional HD channels (like NESN HD for the Sox games), can I get them if I order the Digital Gateway package? The digital gateway package is like $4.95.

Basically, what is the minimum amount of money it'll cost me to get the most HD content?

Thanks.

-BL

You can get pbs, abc, and nbc in hd through the coax, but thats all cox offers in for hd locals. you can't get fox and cbs , unless your tv has an internal hd tuner, in that case you can get most local hd channels via OTA antenna.
For NESN hd you need the HD reciever, digital gateway will not get you nesn hd. all other cable networks in hd you need cablecard or the hd receiver

Though I don't have one (yet) Cox has boxes with HDMI output on them now (you have to request them though).

EDIT: Opps just notice othters have mentioned this....I may pick one, I have an antenna already, but really need a DVR that can record HD as well. My TV only has one component input which is currently used for DVD playback, so I am glad there is HDMI on the boxes now as well.

You can get pbs, abc, and nbc in hd through the coax, but thats all cox offers in for hd locals. you can't get fox and cbs , unless your tv has an internal hd tuner, in that case you can get most local hd channels via OTA antenna.
For NESN hd you need the HD reciever, digital gateway will not get you nesn hd. all other cable networks in hd you need cablecard or the hd receiver

If he has limited basic (analog channels 2-23ish), Cox has installed a filter on the line that only allows their low frequency spectrum from going though. It was my understanding that this trap blocks any digital services (digital cable, HSI, etc) from passing through the filtered line(s).

I'm fairly certain that all of cox's HD programming, given that it's digital, will be blocked in his current configuration. If he were to upgrade to standard basic (all analog channels 2-78ish), there would be no filters or "traps" on his lines thus the HD OTA channels for PBS, NBC, and ABC would be available through his HDTV tuner.

If he has limited basic (analog channels 2-23ish), Cox has installed a filter on the line that only allows their low frequency spectrum from going though. It was my understanding that this trap blocks any digital services (digital cable, HSI, etc) from passing through the filtered line(s).

I'm fairly certain that all of cox's HD programming, given that it's digital, will be blocked in his current configuration. If he were to upgrade to standard basic (all analog channels 2-78ish), there would be no filters or "traps" on his lines thus the HD OTA channels for PBS, NBC, and ABC would be available through his HDTV tuner.

I agree. You're right. When he said limited basic I was thinking standard (2-78ish) was the basic package.

ATPTourFan is right, I have the limit basic with a trap on the line.

However, check this out:

My current SD TV tunes analog channels 2-24 great. Channel 25 is black-n-white and fuzzy. Channel 98 is color, but fuzzy and channel 99 is great. This would indicate that the trap is filtering a band of frequencies and not just 25 and above.

In the spectrum on the wire, do the digital channels occupy space above analog channel 99? If yes, then there is a chance that I'll be able to tune the 'free' HD locals that exist on the coax.

When I get my new TV, I'll let you all know what I find.


p.s. I have HSI, and that works fine. I assume the filter is on the same coax as the HSI.

Thanks,

-BL

ATPTourFan is right, I have the limit basic with a trap on the line.

However, check this out:

My current SD TV tunes analog channels 2-24 great. Channel 25 is black-n-white and fuzzy. Channel 98 is color, but fuzzy and channel 99 is great. This would indicate that the trap is filtering a band of frequencies and not just 25 and above.

In the spectrum on the wire, do the digital channels occupy space above analog channel 99? If yes, then there is a chance that I'll be able to tune the 'free' HD locals that exist on the coax.

When I get my new TV, I'll let you all know what I find.


p.s. I have HSI, and that works fine. I assume the filter is on the same coax as the HSI.

Thanks,

-BL


I believe the digital channels begin at approximately 100 but are encrypted. When I scan with NTSC tuner (no trap) on my HDTV I don't get any above 100. When I try to tune in channels above 100 manually, I get a message stating that the channel is encrypted. YMMV. I do get all of the digitals above 100 if I let the cable box unencrypt the signal, but that's because I have the digital package.

Well, I received my HDTV today and toenail was right. I scanned my Cox coax and found no (free) digital channels. I attached a $10 antenna to the air input and can receive a fair number of OTA digital channels. WGBH PBS-HD looks fantastic. Since it's early, some of the other D-TV channels I get with the cheapo antenna aren't in HD yet. Maybe later tonight there'll be more content.

I'll probably get a good antenna and put it in the attic to get all the OTA stuff.

And I'll most suredly get a Cox digital package so that I can get NESN HD for the Sox games.

Thanks to all for your help.

-BL

Anyone been having some audio problems with abc HD lately? Someone forgetting to flip the switch? I forget what it was the other night, but the whole show had no audio. Kind of defeats the purpose...

Anyone been having some audio problems with abc HD lately? Someone forgetting to flip the switch? I forget what it was the other night, but the whole show had no audio. Kind of defeats the purpose...

I have found that ABC6 HD frequently has problems with audio skipping or dropping out. I've also noticed that the RI affiliates often drop the ball when it comes to switching from SD to HD for the first few minutes (or longer) of HD broadcasts. Particularly sporting events and prime time weeknight stuff. Three weeks in a row West Wing began as SD and I switched to the antenna to pick up the Mass NBC affiliate and had no problem. Even my wife has come to expect this about 50% of the time. I can't say I understand why one state's affiliates all seem to have their collective "stuff" together while another does not, but I can't recall a time when the Mass affiliates didn't have something in HD when it was supposed to be.

It probably has something to do with the fact that Providence is not even a top 50 market anymore and Boston has recently moved up to #3, IIRC.

I emailed ABC 6 about the world cup games not being broadcast from them in HD and the station's engineer wrote me back a personalized email saying they often have difficulty with their switching equipment, but he didn't want to make it seem like that was an excuse. I was rather impressed with his reply.

It probably has something to do with the fact that Providence is not even a top 50 market anymore and Boston has recently moved up to #3, IIRC.

I emailed ABC 6 about the world cup games not being broadcast from them in HD and the station's engineer wrote me back a personalized email saying they often have difficulty with their switching equipment, but he didn't want to make it seem like that was an excuse. I was rather impressed with his reply.

I would be impressed too. Not only did you get a real response but they fessed up to the issue, at least to some extent. Fortunately I get all of the Mass affiliates OTA so it is simply a matter of switching inputs or channels to get an HD feed when things in the RI market are not working correctly. If I were one the many without an HD tuner and decent antenna I'd be pretty peaved about the whole issue.

Now if only Cox could fix the audio drops on ABC6 HD 702....

World cup final this past Sunday was awful in this regard. Seems to always be worse on Sundays.

Was curious if anyone had noticed this recently on Cox Cable. It's a cut and paste from the HD golf thread in another forum.

"I'm watching the US Senior Open on Cox cable in RI and am seeing some pretty strange artifacts. Not surprising since I also saw them last week in the US Women's Open. Still shots in HD look great, but the second there is motion or panning I get wispy vapor trails on all images and visible ghosting on some edges. Not to be confused with the SD shots which are obvious. I had previously thought the Women's issues were atributable to the foggy weather in Newport while they were shooting but this seems a bit much. Anyone else had these issues?"

Well after months of paying way to much for Cox digital cable, HD, DVR , etc I decided to cancel and downgrade to basic($12) a month. Too many empty promises, price hikes, etc. Now contrary to what someone had reported earlier, I am able to get ABC , NBC, PBS in HD through coax. Also which is a pleasant surprise I am able to pull in a few HBO channels not sure which ones. After performing auto program I came up with a lot more channels than I expected. A few miscellaneous channels like BET , court tv, hallmark channel. HBO came in at somewhere around channel 86.4 or 85.6 not sure of the exact tenth of a channel :D :D . Is kinda cool , I got Howard TV tonight which I know is an on demand thing. Basically anyone who has basic service(2-24) you might be surprised what channels you can pull in .

Now if only Cox could fix the audio drops on ABC6 HD 702....
I'm pretty sure thats a WLNE thing, and not cox.

Why do I not ever get audio drops on OTA HD signal from ABC6, then? I think this has already been confirmed as a Cox problem, IIRC.

No cable here, only use an antenna and I have gotten audio dropouts from WLNE from time to time pretty much they came on the air. John

ctdish, thanks for the info...

Anyone else having problems with FX through cox tonight? I was about to watch rescue me and the station is scrambled for some reason. :(

I was checking out the COX site to see if there was any update on CBS/FOX (yeah... not giving up yet) and noticed this:
MHD (coming 7/26)
Channel 730
RI & CT

What is MHD??

MHD = MTV HD

HD music videos, concerts, etc.

http://www.mhd.tv/

Great, they get that, and we STILL don't have half of the major networks that broadcast in hd :(

I was checking out the COX site to see if there was any update on CBS/FOX (yeah... not giving up yet) and noticed this:
MHD (coming 7/26)
Channel 730
RI & CT

What is MHD??

Thanks for the info. Could you give me the link for the site?

Hello all.

I now have a Winegard pr-4400 installed on my roof. I can get nearly all of the PVD and BOS DTV channels. However, I can't seem to get a digital lock on Channel 12 (wpri) and Fox-64. Why would that be? I'd think I'd be able to get those channels better than the Boston ones, not worse.

Is it an antenna directionality issue?

Is it because pri/fox-64 are not broadcasting their signal at full strength?



Also, here's a strange one: whenever I select any of the 44.1, 44.2, 44.3 or 44.4 channels, my TV reboots. Anyone else experience this, or would anyone know what 44.x's data is different than all the others for me?

Thanks,

-BL

It is probably not a signal strength problem with WPRI and WNAC DT. I get both stations pretty well in Mystic, CT. Your antenna in not really designed for WPRI which is on channel 13, but since you are so close it probably could work. You should try reaming the antenna especially if it is aimed at Boston. An antenna rotator is much more important for digital stations.
State the type of TV/tuner you are using and see if others with the same type have any issues with these stations. John

I spoke too soon. I can get WNAC DT, but at about 40% strength (which is enough to be stable it seems). It turns out that I hadn't done a channel scan since putting the antenna higher up. Re-scanning now sees WNAC DT.

I still can't get WPRI. I'll try re-aiming.

Also, my TV is a Samsung DLP HL-S4666W. It continually reboots when tuning 44.x.

-BL

ct, i believe wpri-12 is actually broadcasting on Vhf, not Uhf (according to anntennaweb website). It's a pain, but I do have a combination antenna with both UHF and VHF for that purpose. 64 is supposed to be UHF like the others, but I sometimes have difficulty keeping that tuned in also.

P.S. Thanks to all for all the info I've gotten off this board...being new to HDTV, it really helped me out a lot.

I spoke too soon. I can get WNAC DT, but at about 40% strength (which is enough to be stable it seems). It turns out that I hadn't done a channel scan since putting the antenna higher up. Re-scanning now sees WNAC DT.

I still can't get WPRI. I'll try re-aiming.

Also, my TV is a Samsung DLP HL-S4666W. It continually reboots when tuning 44.x.

-BL

WNAC-DT is usually the one I have the most difficulty with in Cranston. My understanding is that they broadcast at lower power than most. Never had issues with WPRI-DT. FWIW Most of the Boston signal strength is as good at 40 miles as Providence at 10 miles in most cases.

All,

So I was happy the past few days with my reception.

Until last night.

The t-storms we had last night must have done something to my antenna install. I am no longer receiving about half the stations I was a couple of days ago.

I did a quick visual inspection from the ground, and it looks like the antenna hasn't moved or been broken.

I know that I did not waterproof my connections. Could water be a problem? Could it have seeped into the F connectors somehow and be 'shorting' something out?

Somewhat frustrated,

-BL


Update:
Well, I just did a quick search on the Boston OTA thread and it appears that at least one of the channels I used to receive loud and clear was knocked offline from the storm:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8035417&&#post8035417

In that thread they also say that it is back online. I'll have to check to see if I get WHDH back.

I live in Westport, MA and get all of the Providence and Boston stations except FXT 25 (which I used to get). I do get 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, 12, 28, 36, 38, 44, 56, 64, 68, and 69.

Any info on WPRI-DT's weather channel. I don't think I have been able to get it for the last couple of months. I hear promo's on the main channel like it's still on. It's seems to only be on WNAC-DT. John

ct, i believe wpri-12 is actually broadcasting on Vhf, not Uhf (according to anntennaweb website). It's a pain, but I do have a combination antenna with both UHF and VHF for that purpose. 64 is supposed to be UHF like the others, but I sometimes have difficulty keeping that tuned in also.

P.S. Thanks to all for all the info I've gotten off this board...being new to HDTV, it really helped me out a lot.

FYI, I'd make sure you all have the ability to receive VHF if your planning on OTA HD long term as many stations will fall back to their VHF freq. after the 4/7/09 mandatory analog turn off.

Also, it's now fair to start telling all your friends and neighbors that COX Rhode Island will be dropping FOX and CBS altogether. If they have failed to reach a deal for the rights to their digital feeds in the last 4 years why should we believe it will happen in the next 2. Once the analogs are forced off it's good night irene for CBS and FOX on Cox in Rhode Island. I don't see any current legislation making it thru the house so it will remain a commercial issue until then and beyond.

I finally upgraded my TV set to a 42" 1080p HDTV. I've been subscribed to cox digital cable for a long time now, but since I never had an HDTV I've never had any need to find out that CBS and Fox aren't in Cox's HD lineup.

After reading all the info in this thread, I can see that it has never been and may never be. I see that most people are just using an OTA antenna.

I live in Johnston, RI and am wondering what is the best antenna setup (antenna and amplifier if needed) that I can use to get OTA HD channels. Any recommendations on what you have found works the best.

Also, do you mostly only watch CBS and Fox in OTA HD and use the cox digital HD for NBC, ABC, etc??? Or do most of you use OTA HD for everything? I gotta have my Sox games and how that I have an HD set, I dont know if I could drop the digital cable and go back to basic cable w/ OTA antenna. I think dish/directTV have NESN but I dont think that there is any cost benefit/savings with a satellite dish instead of Cox. Or is there?

if your going to get outdoor OTA antenna i recommend the Channelmaster 4228. If Positioned corrrectly you should be able to pull down Boston HD channels too.

i bought mine here at Solid Signal. http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=ANC4228

FYI, if you go with Satellite (Direct or Dish) they DO NOT offer NESN in HD, thus no Red Sox HD. You better off sticking with Cox HD.

Cox is about to make a second rate increase within one year. I have been told that you can drop expanded basic and still keep the digital and HD channels (including NESN HD) to save some money.

If rate increases are an issue.

Cox is about to make a second rate increase within one year. I have been told that you can drop expanded basic and still keep the digital and HD channels (including NESN HD) to save some money.

If rate increases are an issue.

Do you have a source for this? Where did you hear about the rate hike and how much is it supposed to be?

As far as I know, when I signed up for digital w/ Cox, they wouldnt let me just have the digital channels w/o expanded basic. By opening up the digital they have to open the expanded channels so they wouldnt let me do it. Maybe times have changed and you now can.

Do you have a source for this? Where did you hear about the rate hike and how much is it supposed to be?

As far as I know, when I signed up for digital w/ Cox, they wouldnt let me just have the digital channels w/o expanded basic. By opening up the digital they have to open the expanded channels so they wouldnt let me do it. Maybe times have changed and you now can.

The rate hike was reported in Saturday's Journal.

http://www.projo.com/news/content/projo_20060722_cox22.14cd1fb.html

new HDMI HD cox box or Component HD Box?

I'm ordering Cox HD today. Is the new box better(meaning better HD decoder) than the old one or is the only difference the HDMI port? I'm probably going to use the compnent anyway. Do i have to say i want a new box on the phone or just ask the installer when he comes?

Mayor: I don't care what you do! Just bring back my daughter!

Sledge: I will sir. Dead or alive.

Mayor: But the point is to bring her back alive, Hammer.

Sledge: What? Dead? Did I say dead? I just...

(sorry about the OT, but I can't resist a sledge reference)

nice too see some Sledge fans!

Verizon is running new cable in my condo complex for Fios. I live in West Warwick right next to the courthouse. I can't wait to drop COX and move over to Verizon. Their TV lineup is oustanding compared to Cox. They actually make efforts to carry all the channels like ESPN2HD and the locals in HD.

Verizon is running new cable in my condo complex for Fios. I live in West Warwick right next to the courthouse. I can't wait to drop COX and move over to Verizon. Their TV lineup is oustanding compared to Cox. They actually make efforts to carry all the channels like ESPN2HD and the locals in HD.


Are they running the fiber optics to the box or just to your condo using the existing wiring?

Very interest if you get a big jump in the quality of the reception.

FYI, if you go with Satellite (Direct or Dish) they DO NOT offer NESN in HD, thus no Red Sox HD. You better off sticking with Cox HD.


As of 07/18/06 DirecTV offers NESN HD and they have ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX in HD but U need the H20 box and a 5 lnb dish if U call DirecTV they can hook U up with a deal

........

As of 07/18/06 DirecTV offers NESN HD and they have ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX in HD but U need the H20 box and a 5 lnb dish if U call DirecTV they can hook U up with a deal



where did u read this?

It has been rumored that Dish Network will have NESN-HD sometime in the Fall.

Right now, they have the thick cabling in spools hanging from the main drop points off the poles. I don't know what they're going to do. They would have to run something up to each unit because they obviously can't use existing phone wiring in the condo units. Cox did this last summer when they installed a clean digital line to each unit's utility closet. Owners were then responsible for running cable from there to their existing drops or getting new structrured wiring run through the unit.

ahhh, i hate Cox, they raise their rates and they still don't provide us the channels we want. How hard is it to provide the locals in HD, for the rate increase, they should provide us all the local stations in HD and plus more. I could really care less about MTV-HD, I just want my locals in HD so i can watch them for the upcoming football season. I think we should all setup a day for a ton of ppl to just call Cox over and over again for a hour or two complainning over and over about not having CBS & Fox in HD, like they really look at our comments to consider a agreement with LIN or any other station.

That's why I cancelled my HD and digital service. Basic package($12/month) is all I am willing to give them right now. Get an OTA antenna for HD locals and OBTW the picture quality is better OTA anyway. No sox in HD, doesnt bother me. All football games are in HD on local except for ESPN, I can deal. If people start cancelling their HD and digital service(which is way overpriced for the programming) maybe they will act more swiftly then a phone call. Calling to complain from their perspective is useless as long as they are getting your money for the HD and digital service.

Has anyone else noticed a recent decrease in picture quality for HD channels via Cox Cable? I'm getting a lot more motion macroblocking than I used to on most of the 700-725 HD channels. In general the PQ has looked a bit poorer than I'm used to.

I wholeheartedly second JoeBloggz sentiment. I just canceled all TV programming with Cox. I have an antenna on the roof and get enough HD programming to make me happy.

In fact, I even canceled the $12 service; there was zero value in it. I can get all the (digital/HD) local channels for free over the air. I didn't want to pay the $12 for Discovery and 10 channels of home shopping.