If they wait too long, will there be A-> D boxes to buy?
In this economy, even if I was a "Big Box" retailer, my money is made on selling HDTVs not the $49.99 - $40.00 = $9.99 converter boxes. I would very much limit my stock of these dead end products.

Just my $.02

If they wait too long, will there be A-> D boxes to buy?
In this economy, even if I was a "Big Box" retailer, my money is made on selling HDTVs not the $49.99 - $40.00 = $9.99 converter boxes. I would very much limit my stock of these dead end products.

Just my $.02

There are already stories on the internet that there will be a shortage (and a nice excuse built in to delay the date again) but everywhere I've gone I've seen a nice supply.

In this economy, 50 bucks is 50 bucks. I'm sure they'll take whatever they can get knowing that there are several people (I've talked to a lot of them) that simply refuse to "put that stupid box in" or even buy one until they are forced kicking and screaming.

A lot of these folks like to talk big, but when they loose 3 of the 5 high powered stations tomorrow night, I think they'll be huge change of perspective.

Yes, box's are pretty much everywhere now. The problem is that the quality and options on the box's vary all over the place we are finding as we are installing quite a few of them for customers. Most do not have the analog pass through option so when we hook them up they find all of the analog channels are gone which means NO channel 55 for most customers outside of Fort Wayne. The other problem we are seeing is that the box's made by Dish network have the same remote codes as there Dish network satellite box's so they interfere with there Dish box's if they mount the converter box in the same room that they have a Dish network IR satellite receiver.

Steve


There are already stories on the internet that there will be a shortage (and a nice excuse built in to delay the date again) but everywhere I've gone I've seen a nice supply.

In this economy, 50 bucks is 50 bucks. I'm sure they'll take whatever they can get knowing that there are several people (I've talked to a lot of them) that simply refuse to "put that stupid box in" or even buy one until they are forced kicking and screaming.

A lot of these folks like to talk big, but when they loose 3 of the 5 high powered stations tomorrow night, I think they'll be huge change of perspective.

Wikipedia says WINM's Ft. Wayne translator W43CF will flash-cut to digital. Any idea of when this will take place?

Wikipedia says WINM's Ft. Wayne translator W43CF will flash-cut to digital. Any idea of when this will take place?

The W43CF translator is on our (WFWA) tower. I have had conversations with them concerning the change but I don't have a firm date. They were going to bring an Analog SS transmitter down from Michigan when it signs off. That transmitter needs to be installed and converted for digital use. It could be a little while, especially if the Michigan Analog TX sign off date was extended.

Fox 55 HD is booming in for me here tonight on the south side of Huntington. This is the first time that I can say I am getting zero picture breakup. Did something change today, or am I just holding my coax from the antenna just right. :)

Steve

Fox 55.1 is coming in perfect down in Berne

Fox is just barely making it to Auburn tonight; quite a bit of pixelation here. The first time I have been able to receive it. At least it is now in my Dish guide.

I checked the tropo forecasts and it doesn't look like much is going on right now:
http://www.dxinfocentre.com/tropo.html

I wonder if they hooked up their new equipment and just haven't turned it up yet? It would make sense if they had crews scheduled for today, since the old date was tomorrow.

Edit:
So I tried several different tuners and the CECB pulled 55.1 in perfect (Zenith 901). The Dish was pixelated and both of my TVs internal tuners couldn't lock.

Fox 55 HD is booming in for me here tonight on the south side of Huntington. This is the first time that I can say I am getting zero picture breakup. Did something change today, or am I just holding my coax from the antenna just right. :)

Steve

On east side of Huntington and its about where it was for me on checks from about mid-January through February 6th or so. Then it went away for a week.

Fox is just barely making it to Auburn tonight; quite a bit of pixelation here. The first time I have been able to receive it. At least it is now in my Dish guide.

I checked the tropo forecasts and it doesn't look like much is going on right now:
http://www.dxinfocentre.com/tropo.html

I wonder if they hooked up their new equipment and just haven't turned it up yet? It would make sense if they had crews scheduled for today, since the old date was tomorrow.

Edit:
So I tried several different tuners and the CECB pulled 55.1 in perfect (Zenith 901). The Dish was pixelated and both of my TVs internal tuners couldn't lock.

So I think I was dreaming last night, but 55.1 is still in my Dish guide. Anyways, I wasn't able to pick it up this morning, so maybe it was weather related.

Edit: Confirmed by WFFT that they were not doing any work several nights ago.

Attached is a listing of before and after listing that I scanned.

Must be pretty boring watching how to install the DTV box on most of the analog stations.

I'm curious on how many calls the stations got today?

diehard

Edit: Confirmed by WFFT that they were not doing any work several nights ago.This is precisely why they don't have a digital signal worth watching yet. :D

(hey, someone had to say it!)

Attached is a listing of before and after listing that I scanned.

Must be pretty boring watching how to install the DTV box on most of the analog stations.

I'm curious on how many calls the stations got today?

diehard

I know we didn't kill the analog yet, but it was quite busy at WANE.

I'm getting a lot of "your signal was fine but now its gone as of today" calls. Its strange, as on my receiver at home WANE's signal has jumped from 75 to 92% tonight. Curious to how everyone else is seeing us (and any changes with the other stations).

Fringe folks are the ones I worry about most.....

Hey everyone, I found this forum tonight while trying to figure out why Fox was not broadcasting a digital signal yet. I guess I am not the only person with that problem. I live in an apartment complex, so I can not have an outdoor antenna. I am currently using a Radio Shack indoor antenna with 22db amplifier gain control. I have not seen any changes in signal levels since the switch. I get 3 of the Fort Wayne channels, 15, 21, and 33. Channel 21 is the strongest with signal levels between 60-75. Channels 15 and 33 are about the same. If I mess with the antenna enough I get them in at signal levels around 30-35. I also receive channel 6 from Indy fairly good, signal is about 60-65. Also PBS in Muncie, and WNDY. I’m not sure if any of this helps anyone out, but I just thought I would throw it out there. If anyone has ideas for how I can get my signal levels up without going to an outdoor antenna please let me know. :)

Hey everyone, I found this forum tonight while trying to figure out why Fox was not broadcasting a digital signal yet. I guess I am not the only person with that problem. I live in an apartment complex, so I can not have an outdoor antenna. I am currently using a Radio Shack indoor antenna with 22db amplifier gain control. I have not seen any changes in signal levels since the switch. I get 3 of the Fort Wayne channels, 15, 21, and 33. Channel 21 is the strongest with signal levels between 60-75. Channels 15 and 33 are about the same. If I mess with the antenna enough I get them in at signal levels around 30-35. I also receive channel 6 from Indy fairly good, signal is about 60-65. Also PBS in Muncie, and WNDY. I’m not sure if any of this helps anyone out, but I just thought I would throw it out there. If anyone has ideas for how I can get my signal levels up without going to an outdoor antenna please let me know. :)

I think you're doing pretty good considering your distance and indoor antenna. You can enter your address at antennaweb.org (http://www.antennaweb.org) to see your distance to towers and suggested antennas even though they'll show outdoor antennas in your case. It appears you're approximately 46 miles from the Fox tower. You might try something like this (http://www.summitsource.com/channel-master-4149-indoor-uhf-hd-antenna-digital-bow-tie-tv-aerial-cm4149-allegro-local-signal-television-reception-gold-reflector-screen-with-balun-transformer-part-cm4149-p-7193.html) antenna with a booster if you wanted to sample antennas. You're building orientation to Fort Wayne will also be an issue. If you're apartment is facing north it will be easier.

I'm getting a lot of "your signal was fine but now its gone as of today" calls. Its strange, as on my receiver at home WANE's signal has jumped from 75 to 92% tonight. Curious to how everyone else is seeing us (and any changes with the other stations).
I'm less than half a mile from you and was worried that I might pull too much signal when you guys up'd the power. I'm pleased to report everything is working fine for all local stations. My signal level for WANE jumped from mid 90's to high 90's but that's the only change I've noticed.

I do have one 2-way split in the feed from my attic mounted antennae and I'm driving about 75 ft. of RG6 so that is knocking the signal down a little.

I'm less than half a mile from you and was worried that I might pull too much signal when you guys up'd the power. I'm pleased to report everything is working fine for all local stations. My signal level for WANE jumped from mid 90's to high 90's but that's the only change I've noticed.

I do have one 2-way split in the feed from my attic mounted antennae and I'm driving about 75 ft. of RG6 so that is knocking the signal down a little.


Well, I guess you can worry for a bit longer as we haven't raised the power yet... :eek:

Well, I guess you can worry for a bit longer as we haven't raised the power yet... :eek:
Doh!!! - Do you have to wait until June now?

Doh!!! - Do you have to wait until June now?

Yeppers, unless I am told otherwise. If we do raise it before June (as I cross my fingers and bang on wood) I'll let everyone here know.

Anybody on here representing the Decatur area?? How 'bout Hicksville?

Anybody on here representing the Decatur area?? How 'bout Hicksville?
My ex lives about 5 miles from Hicksville. Need me to check on something?

I'm in Berne, 10 miles south of Decatur.

I'm in Berne, 10 miles south of Decatur.

If anybody in these areas watch WANE ota, can you give an update on the signal please.

If anybody in these areas watch WANE ota, can you give an update on the signal please.

signal strength is 95% with outdoor antenna with pre amp, hooked into dish network receiver box.

If anybody in these areas watch WANE ota, can you give an update on the signal please.

How about Kokomo? I was at a friend's house on the southeast side of Kokomo around 1 p.m. today checking out his new 40" Samsung HDTV and the reception from his Channel Master 4251 UHF parabolic antenna on a 48-ft. tower. (He and I installed this tower and antenna in 1975....It's still up and working fine.) Info about the CM 4251. http://www.rocketroberts.com/cm4251/cm4251.htm

At 66 miles from the Ft. Wayne towers, WANE-DT was not super strong, but it was fairly steady/stable with a perfect HD picture with the Young and the Restless. WANE-DT was averaging around 3 bars (out of 10) on the Samsung signal strength meter. Not bad considering your current power level plus your directional antenna, which does not favor a lot of signal to the southwest.

Meanwhile, WISE-DT was the strongest Fort Wayne signal with around 6-8 bars out of 10. WPTA-DT was around 4-6 bars. Due to a remapping issue with Indy's WHMB-DT 16 (40.1 & 40.2), the Samsung couldn't seem to get past WHMB to locate WFWA-DT 40. But WFWA-39 was almost snow-free while WANE-15 was mostly snow-free but did display some CCI (co-channel interference) from another ch. 15. Not really sure which one might have been causing the CCI since WICD-15, Champaign, IL signed off Tuesday.

Also, WSBT-DT and WNDU-DT from South Bend were quite good @ 81 miles. Even WNIT-DT with just 50 kW was in, but with several dropouts.

Steve

Thanks for the updates guys. We've seen a spike in calls since 21/33/39 shut down, and these areas (Decatur, Hicksville) have been higher in nature, with several stating they had us before Feb. 17, but they woke up Feb. 18th with a loss of signal. I've double and triple checked our transmitter and everything looks good leaving the plant, and my signal actually has jumped quite a bit as I've mentioned before.

We are wondering if these homes were set up on mulitpath and that has changed somehow with some of these shutdowns. I'm going out today and testing our signal today in the field to see if it is just setup problems, but I thought I'd start with those that know how to set things up, like you guys here on the forum!

Thanks for the feedback.

So, I have an antenna in my attic (One of those "Uni-directional" ones...) with a pre-amp hooked up to it. I'm able to get WISE at 75-80% strength, WPTA at 90% and PBS at 70-75%. However, I cannot get WANE-TV at all. I used to get it, up till last week, at about 75%. Now if it does come in, it will only be for a couple of seconds before it goes to 0%.

Why???!!? Hopefully this doesn't last very long, March Madness is coming up...I don't get why I can't get WANE, it used to be one of the strongest stations I got in...hopefully it isn't something like WFFT, which sucks...American Idol in SD is not fun...

So, now its coming in at 70% with minimal signal drops...um, maybe its my lucky day? This is the first time in while its come in with any consistency at all...

So, I have an antenna in my attic (One of those "Uni-directional" ones...) with a pre-amp hooked up to it. I'm able to get WISE at 75-80% strength, WPTA at 90% and PBS at 70-75%. However, I cannot get WANE-TV at all. I used to get it, up till last week, at about 75%. Now if it does come in, it will only be for a couple of seconds before it goes to 0%.

Why???!!? Hopefully this doesn't last very long, March Madness is coming up...I don't get why I can't get WANE, it used to be one of the strongest stations I got in...hopefully it isn't something like WFFT, which sucks...American Idol in SD is not fun...

Welcome to the boards.

It would help me a great deal knowing where you are at.

This gives me a bit of a chance to explain a field test we did at WANE this past Friday. I went out in the field with a simple 60 buck antenna, converter box, tv, and a case of Diet Pepsi and circled the viewing area, specifically targeting areas of higher reception problems as determined by phone calls to the station.

I went to Decatur, Antwerp, Bluffton, South Whitley, Angola, and Butler in one of our live trucks. No pre-amps, no special tricks, just an antenna set on a tripod about 4 feet off the ground.

I was able to pick up WANE at all of these locations. Took me a bit of tuning in Antwerp as I puprosely parked in a heavily residential area, but it did lock. Bluffton and Decatur the signal locked in without much tuning adjustments at all. Same for South Whitley and Butler. Angola seemed to take the most tweaking, but I was able to lock in there as well.

That tells me the signal at the very least is leaving our stick and getting out there.

Another engineer told me that the trip was an academic exercise because it doesn't address multipath, antenna issues, or even troposphere enhancements that can help/kill the signal. He is correct, but the only thing I can control is it leaving the stick and making it out where we say it is going, and the answer is yes, it is.

Thats a bit of a long winded way Derek of me saying our signal hasn't changed from the transmit side at WANE. If you give me your location maybe we can figure something out for you.

Jeff Kracium
WANE Engineering Supervisor

Thanks for the response :) And I just realized that I never told you my location...duh!

I live in the middle of Bluffton, maybe 2 miles from the hospital. WANE is still coming in today, albeit at a slightly less consistent rate. Yesterday it was consistently 70-73%. Today its more like 65%. Sometimes it'll go for 10 minutes without so much as a hiccup, and sometimes its every 2 minutes. Either way its been than it has been.

Thanks for the welcome as well, I've been watching these boards for about a year, figured it was high time to sign up:)

So, I have an antenna in my attic (One of those "Uni-directional" ones...) with a pre-amp hooked up to it. .

there is a ton of antenna info on the avsforum and antennaweb.org

from what I recall (a few years back when i was trying out different antenna configs) that the uni-directional antennas are not that great, so you might consider getting a Channel Master or Winegard bay-style if you receive all your broadcasts from FW area. you can still use it in the attic but you'll just need to spend a few hours picking the best way to aim it.
as far as preamps, you might not need it depending on your attic, roof, and how long a cable run you have. when i tried a preamp (to get WFFT :mad:) it made stronger stations do weird things like drop out. simple is often better with antennas and DTV in my experience

I know we didn't kill the analog yet, but it was quite busy at WANE.

I'm getting a lot of "your signal was fine but now its gone as of today" calls. Its strange, as on my receiver at home WANE's signal has jumped from 75 to 92% tonight. Curious to how everyone else is seeing us (and any changes with the other stations).

Fringe folks are the ones I worry about most.....

WANE-DT looks great here in Angola. I'm geting a consistent 98-ish percent strength on the DISH integrated digital tuner.

The impossible has happened: WFFT is starting a newscast.

Has FOX FW really thought this through? They can't even put out a full digital signal yet, and they want to start a newscast after how many years?!

Has FOX FW really thought this through? They can't even put out a full digital signal yet, and they want to start a newscast after how many years?!

The 5 of us who can receive their signal are mildly excited about this. ;)

Seriously, more choice in local news coverage is always a good thing. I just hope they fare better than The Chevy Chase Show (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Chevy_Chase_Show).

Martian21

EDIT: Besides, only on FOX NEWS can you get quality reporting like this (http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,480037,00.html).

Has FOX FW really thought this through? They can't even put out a full digital signal yet, and they want to start a newscast after how many years?!

Yeah, let's work on the medium, then the content. Delay or no delay, WFFT/Nexstar needs to align its priorities. This makes me think of the fairly decent job they did documenting the installation of the new digital transmitter, while it sits there essentially idle. Why not put everything else down and focus on this one project and get it done. While on some levels that may seem like a silly statement, I only hope to express my frustration as a lviewer who finds myself watching WFFT only when its absolutely necessary because of how bad it looks on satellite in comparison to the other locals I get OTA in HD.

Once they get that squared away, I'd love to see another local newscast... if it's done correctly. Indidna's News Center is a good example of what not to do. I hate to be the one to say it, but INC looks like its a community college production. If WFFT wants to get in the game, be in it to win it. If the budget and the talent aren't there to make it look like a big market newscast, then just fill the hour with reruns of COPS or more infomercials something like that.

...Once they get that squared away, I'd love to see another local newscast... if it's done correctly. Indidna's News Center is a good example of what not to do. I hate to be the one to say it, but INC looks like its a community college production. If WFFT wants to get in the game, be in it to win it. If the budget and the talent aren't there to make it look like a big market newscast, then just fill the hour with reruns of COPS or more infomercials something like that.

I'll jump in. INC has lots of improvement to do..from the crammed set to the awkward green screen news to the amateur graphics and bad lighting.

Perhaps more competition will inspire?

I don't want to appear to be a WFFT defender, I think their handling of the digital changeover has been a disgrace for a DMA our size.

However, WFFT-DT has been rock solid on DirecTV HD locals since November, on Comcast and Fios before that. They are one of only 2 stations (WISE-DT) that are currently broadcasting with a Dolby Digital 5.1 audio stream. The 1 million watt transmitter will make them the area powerhouse if/when they utilize it.

And if WFFT's newscast is in HD, with anyone other that Steve Shine as anchor, it will immediately become my newscast of choice.

Am I correct in assuming that when WANE and WFFT officially switch off their analog signal they will begin broadcasting at full power in digital? And if thats the case, I would be able to receive FOX HD broadcasts...

It is a disappointment that of all the major channels in FW, WFFT is the only one that has missed the boat in the HD department. And as far as I can tell the only information they will offer is "switching over is a process, please be patient". Ugh.

I don't want to appear to be a WFFT defender, I think their handling of the digital changeover has been a disgrace for a DMA our size.

However, WFFT-DT has been rock solid on DirecTV HD locals since November, on Comcast and Fios before that. They are one of only 2 stations (WISE-DT) that are currently broadcasting with a Dolby Digital 5.1 audio stream. The 1 million watt transmitter will make them the area powerhouse if/when they utilize it.

Well, I certainly agree with the first statement. It has been a disgrace indeed. As for FOX Fort Wayne becoming an "area powerhouse", though, I'm not too sure. They certainly don't present themselves that way. From the cheezy website (is there a FOX branding issue there or something?), to the way they've handled this current technical situation, well, I guess they'll have to convince me. When I lived in L.A., FOX11 was my favorite local station. I know I have to keep my expectations very low, but I'd love to see WFFT come in and "wow" me.

Am I correct in assuming that when WANE and WFFT officially switch off their analog signal they will begin broadcasting at full power in digital? And if thats the case, I would be able to receive FOX HD broadcasts...

I'm not sure about WANE, but the e-mail I got from someone at WFFT (when the deadline was still Feb 17th) said this...

We are waiting for a tower crew to arrive at, FOX Fort Wayne, to run a new transmission line up our tower so we can connect our new Digital transmitter to the line and begin broadcasting. There is not a definitive time frame for when this will happen, but we hope before February 17th.

At the time (Jan 20th), I gleaned that there was the possibility that they could have gone dark (except for their current "broadcasting via a coat hanger out the window" solution) for a while.

It is a disappointment that of all the major channels in FW, WFFT is the only one that has missed the boat in the HD department. And as far as I can tell the only information they will offer is "switching over is a process, please be patient". Ugh.

I would hope that in the next four months (and hopefully waaaaaaaaay sooner), they can wipe the egg off of their collective faces and get the digital broadcast up to full power, or at the very least, come clean with those of us who've remained somewhat loyal, in spite of this debacle.

Anyway, I hate to turn this into such a rant, but when you take into account the reason given for the delay "waiting for a tower crew to arrive at, FOX Fort Wayne, to run a new transmission line up our tower so we can connect our new Digital transmitter to the line and begin broadcasting" a delay like this seems unreasonable. Hopefully FOX Fort Wayne will get it in gear and/or come clean about the shameful way this has been handled. Yes we know they built a new transmitter building, yes we know they installed a brand new state-of-the-art digital transmitter, yes we know they installed all kinds of air conditioning for said transmitter, but none of that means squat if after all this time, there are still viewers who can't get the WFFT digital HD signal.

As for FOX Fort Wayne becoming an "area powerhouse", though, I'm not too sure. They certainly don't present themselves that way. From the cheezy website (is there a FOX branding issue there or something?)
It's Nexstar policy for station websites to be portals named after the area.

The impossible has happened: WFFT is starting a newscast.

I know where they can get a set for cheap:

ebay News Set (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=250376522831)

and they won't even have to change the network logo
(plus free shipping... just WFFT's style)

I know where they can get a set for cheap:

ebay News Set (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&item=250376522831)

and they won't even have to change the network logo
(plus free shipping... just WFFT's style)
Well, you know what happened to the last Fort Wayne news operation that bought a set off eBay. Anyway, 55 is starting some time in April (WXMI wants it out around the 17th of that month)... dare I say they might push it back a bit?

I don't know if anyone's seen this, but on WFFT.com they have an announcement about the news this Spring:

"In the next steps toward launching the area’s first primetime newscast, WFFT FOX Fort Wayne announced Monday, February 23rd that Emmy-award winning journalist Jim Blue has been appointed as News Director and Primary Anchor. WFFT plans to launch “FOX Fort Wayne News First at 10” in April of this year."

First prime time news? What about the CW & MyTV's Prime News?

It's Nexstar policy for station websites to be portals named after the area.

Well, this is just my opinion, but that's not the way to go. WFFT should stand proud with their other FOX stations and brand themselves as such on the air and on the web. It's like what they tell you to do if you think you're going to be attacked by a bear "stand tall and make yourself look as big as you can to the bear who wants to eat you alive". Wait, maybe that's a mountain lion???

Anyway, like I said before, none of this means anything if nobody is watching. If I were a prospective advertiser, WFFT would be the last place I'd be spending those advertising dollars.

...From the cheezy website (is there a FOX branding issue there or something?)...I've wondered about this for a while...seriously, when I think Fox Fort Wayne, I don't immediately think fortwaynehomepage (and .NET...what, all the .COM's gone?)

At least wane.com and indianasnewscenter.com have something to do with the station...

....I don't know, maybe foxfortwayne.com? ;)

They are one of only 2 stations (WISE-DT) that are currently broadcasting with a Dolby Digital 5.1 audio stream.

As I understand it, because of the FOX network distribution 'splicer' system, there's really no choice or intervention if the audio goes out as 5.1

I think you'll see, if there's any LO material, it won't be 5.1 (unless they, like many other stations just leave the processor in 5.1 mode regardless of program material)

Giving them credit for the effort would be a mistake.

....I don't know, maybe foxfortwayne.com? ;)

Yeah, and beyond just the domain name, how about something that makes it obvious that I'm looking at the website of my local FOX TV station and not just some shameless hucksters. How about a FOX logo and a picture of Homer Simpson or something from NASCAR on FOX or something like that?

I just don't know what they're trying to accomplish with that site. It really has no identity. I guess though, if they really wanted to make the site be as high-tech as the station, they could make available only to people who are on dialup. :D

Sorry if we have missed the post but can anyone advise as to if "the new look" on 15-2 is here to stay? We really hope not.

Steve

Don't know if you noticed, Steve, but our radar is back up on 15.2. Some people acutally liked the retro look....

Yup, thank you very much. Question for you sir. When 15.2 first went hot it had a different color setup for the background map that made it easier to see the storms moving across. Any chance that we can ever get that back?


Also noticed today that 33.3 is weather and commercials only. No 24/7 news anymore?

Steve


Don't know if you noticed, Steve, but our radar is back up on 15.2. Some people acutally liked the retro look....

I just don't know what they're trying to accomplish with that site. It really has no identity. I guess though, if they really wanted to make the site be as high-tech as the station, they could make available only to people who are on dialup. :D

Sorry, I'm a long time lurker that just registered, so I can't post URLs yet. Anyway, type this into your browser: nexstar.tv/stations.html

On the right side of that page is a drop-down box labeled "View Station Websites". Check a few of them out. They all use the same crappy template and have almost no relation to the TV stations they're supposed to be associated with. Local TV websites have always been pretty lacking when it comes to content and style, but I'm amazed that Nexstar thinks this is good corporate policy.

A website should be a supplement to the TV broadcast that enhances the station's image and makes people more likely to tune in. Nexstar's sites do the exact opposite.

I actually feel kind of sorry for WFFT now.

Just something to note: You can still type in wfft.com and it will go to FortWayneHomepage.net. I refuse to type such a long and crazy URL! Maybe when they start up the news they'll 'redesign' the setup, and maybe put their logo at the top corner... like every other news station Web site.

Also, I'm glad INC created incnow.tv instead of the also incredibly long indianasnewscenter.com (But just like 55, I still type in wpta.com ;)

Just something to note: You can still type in wfft.com and it will go to FortWayneHomepage.net. I refuse to type such a long and crazy URL! Maybe when they start up the news they'll 'redesign' the setup, and maybe put their logo at the top corner... like every other news station Web site.

Also, I'm glad INC created incnow.tv instead of the also incredibly long indianasnewscenter.com (But just like 55, I still type in wpta.com ;)
+1 to all of this. They're actually looking for a web designer.

What is up with the 33-3 audio tonight? Get a cracking noise once in awhile and that is it. Someone need to go kick the Linux box?

Steve

Yup, thank you very much. Question for you sir. When 15.2 first went hot it had a different color setup for the background map that made it easier to see the storms moving across. Any chance that we can ever get that back?


Also noticed today that 33.3 is weather and commercials only. No 24/7 news anymore?

Steve

If memory serves, when it first when online on 15.2 (actually then 31.3!) it was a totally different radar and system. The color switched to its current when an upgrade was put on line several years ago.

To answer your question: its being discussed internally on switching either the base maps or the precipitation color. Our art guys are talking about, but that is about all I know at this point.

I vote to display the base maps in a light color (other than green) so that it is easier to see the precipitation moving across the screen. How about leaving the blue for the great lakes, tan for the earth, and the existing green for precipitation????

Thanks



If memory serves, when it first when online on 15.2 (actually then 31.3!) it was a totally different radar and system. The color switched to its current when an upgrade was put on line several years ago.

To answer your question: its being discussed internally on switching either the base maps or the precipitation color. Our art guys are talking about, but that is about all I know at this point.

To answer your question: its being discussed internally on switching either the base maps or the precipitation color. Our art guys are talking about, but that is about all I know at this point.

I'm glad this came up. I really like WANE's radar, but unless the sky is falling, it's too difficult to see. I vote for a beige base map, or something light in color like that and leave the radar echo colors.

I do have one WANE comment that's a little off the WX topic, though. Some of the best HD I've ever seen is NFL on CBS. Great job there!

There has been a debate on what to do color wise since this version of software went live a couple years back. It came back up while the radar was offline, but there are quite a bit of variables involved.

I can say though our art department (some of the best in the game, these guys are amazing) is going through all the options.

That's very cool to hear. The proactive efforts of you and your colleagues is appreciated.

Does anyone know if there's a message board aimed specifically at TV (and maybe radio too) in the Fort Wayne market? It seems as though there's quite a bit to discuss that might go beyond this site. If there isn't one, I could probably look into creating one if there was support. If anyone has any thoughts, feel free to send me a PM.

Yup, thank you very much. Question for you sir. When 15.2 first went hot it had a different color setup for the background map that made it easier to see the storms moving across. Any chance that we can ever get that back?


Also noticed today that 33.3 is weather and commercials only. No 24/7 news anymore?

Steve
We had a software update for our automation and it has caused problems with the news server on 33.3. We are working on the problem as I type this.

Does anyone know if there's a message board aimed specifically at TV (and maybe radio too) in the Fort Wayne market? It seems as though there's quite a bit to discuss that might go beyond this site. If there isn't one, I could probably look into creating one if there was support. If anyone has any thoughts, feel free to send me a PM.

Actually, I did create a new forum and I'm happy with it so far. As I understand this site's policy on posting links, it's only against the rules to post links to commercial sites. As this is not a commercial endeavor as such, I suppose it's okay to post the link. Just understand that the forum is brand new and needs some posts to get it going. So if you decide to check it out, please register and post so we can get the forum going. Thanks! fortwaynetv(dot)999(dot)org

I hope you'll all join me.

I wish I could say the same as this is my first post.

I live in Marion and got nearly all Indy stations, but only WPTA and WISE. At one point, I had WANE.

I just can't wait until June to get all FWA (with the exception of WFWA.)

I wouldn't be saying this if my old cable TV provider didn't drop WANE, WPTA and WISE.

Two stations out of Indy? That's great, they must be transmitting at a really high power. What signal strength were you getting, any dropouts, etc?

If we can pull in Indy stations who cares about the Ft. Wayne channels. It's not like their broadcasting the local news in 1080i.

Actually, I did create a new forum and I'm happy with it so far. As I understand this site's policy on posting links, it's only against the rules to post links to commercial sites. As this is not a commercial endeavor as such, I suppose it's okay to post the link. Just understand that the forum is brand new and needs some posts to get it going. So if you decide to check it out, please register and post so we can get the forum going. Thanks! fortwaynetv(dot)999(dot)org

I hope you'll all join me.

There's also INNewsCenter(dot)net, which talks about how different Indiana TV news is produced. Basically similar to Florida News Center.

Noticed that analog 21 and analog 39 are now gone. Anyone know when they went dark?

Steve

March 3rd was the 14th day of Nightlight. Within the last 24/48 hours would be a safe bet.

We were fortunate to have about an hour's warning in the South Bend thread so those who hang out here could catch WNDU's final sign off. It would be nice to see these from other markets.

WPTA was still nightlighting as of Tuesday night, running the DTV awareness announcements.

I know it's been discussed a little bit here before but now that 39 Analog has gone dark I wanted to bring it back up.

Is there any plans for PBS 39 to do any broadcasting in HD? I'm now seeing several shows on 39.1 that state that they are recorded in HD yet obviously here in Fort Wayne we don't get them in HD.

I mostly understand the reasons for not broadcasting in HD up to this point but now that digital HD is quickly becoming the only option I find myself passing on PBS shows I know I would enjoy watching just because they look like crap on my HD TV compared to the other networks.

I know this is a forum full of technical people, early adopters, etc. but as digital and HD become the only option and "Joe Sixpack" only has a choice between CBS, ABC, NBC, and (maybe someday) FOX in HD or PBS in SD I think more and more will chose the HD stations over PBS in SD. Besides that, lets be honest, PBS is at somewhat of a mindshare disadvantage (at least in my generation and certainly the younger generations) to the other networks anyway.

I'm aware that PBS doesn't rely on advertising dollars to pay the bills but they still need to have viewers who feel they receive enough benefit from PBS's service to continue to support them. Besides the types of people writing checks to support PBS 39 probably own at least one, if not several HD sets already.

I not going to pretend to understand the TV market in Fort Wayne but I do know that it's changing and I hope 39 will re-evaluate the needs of their viewers and be sure they are serving them to the best of their ability.

Obviously the economic situation puts a pretty big damper on capital investments and that may be why 39 isn't making the jump to HD and that is understandable. That said, when all the other stations are HD (insert cheap shot at FOX here) and PBS is not, viewers will notice. In fact my parents upgraded to HD at Christmas and I heard my dad complaining about PBS not being HD just the other day (they watch several PBS shows).

Any other thoughts on this?

Martian21

Being a PBS fan myself, I recorded the final minutes of analog PBS39 :) Also, I think hi-def would be great, but it does seem, however, several people still use analog sets (including myself). Wasn't that a reason to do the nightlight program and converter box coupons? Maybe in the 'near' future we'll see an upgrade -- maybe when new technology allows HD and the remaining 3 SD channels???

In the mean time, I'll still enjoy standard-definition PBS shows on my old analog set...

Maybe in the 'near' future we'll see an upgrade -- maybe when new technology allows HD and the remaining 3 SD channels???



They are capable of broadcasting in HD and they did when they first went digital, but they choose awhile back not to and use all 4 of their broadcast channels. (which means they can't anyways now due to not enough bandwidth). This decision was based on money. The main PBS was wanting to charge more for the HD feed and Fort Wayne PBS wasn't willing to pay it.

PBS39 would have to eliminate a couple of channels to go HD.

Turn your antenna to WNIT 34 in South Bend if you can, they broadcast in HD.

diehard

Turn your antenna to WNIT 34 in South Bend if you can, they broadcast in HD.
This is why I think PBS 39 needs to reconsider their choice to drop HD. There are enough other programming options out there that are in HD that those with HD sets will soon move away from PBS 39 and probably not look back.

Martian21

Martian21 you are correct that it has been brought up before. See this link
to a previous post LINK (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15717215#post15717215)

Diehard condensed it down a bit much but has the basics correct. The original PBS HD service we broadcast was a complete packaged service that had little or no relation to normal PBS feeds. Video went from the satellite receiver direct to air with no local insert or playback capability at all.

Now that the normal PBS satellite feeds switched from SD to HD distribution we absolutely want to provide our viewers with HD content. We are also committed to continuing our multicast services which many many viewers tell us they like.

So one part of the problem is the multicast: Our current encoder cannot possibly provide 1 HD and 2 or 3 SD programs with an acceptable level of quality, so we are seeking funding to replace it with a more capable one.

Second part of the problem: We have no local HD record and playback capacity. Some programs, particularly during prime time are aired live from the satellite and could be broadcast in HD. Many of these shows are repeated several other times during the week and could not be aired in HD since we cannot record them that way.

We had a plan to address this with an HD upgrade to one of our video servers. That plan was derailed when AVID announced that they were dropping the video server line and would no longer sell any new systems or supply upgrades to existing ones. They will also cease hardware and software support at a future date.

So now we are looking at finding funding to replace the entire server instead of just an upgrade. That process is partially funded and currently I am working on installing a new basic SD server system to replace the AVID. As funding becomes available we will be adding more storage capacity and HD record and playback channels.

Third: This one is not a show stopper but needs to be addressed. Our HD switcher is built in to our current encoder and is very limited in what it can do. I can work around it but the real answer is a new HD master control switcher.

These upgrades are very expensive. And as you said the current economics are not easy to deal with. Membership dollars and program underwriting alone cannot fund these upgrades. Currently we are seeking grant funding to move these projects forward.

So to make it short and sweet we want to provide HD, We know we need to provide HD, and we are working on providing HD. It is just a matter of time, how long I can't say. If Encoder funds landed in my lap today we could start HD for live feeds right away.

I'm not sure why I seem to have the long posts all the time. :D

Hope this helps you understand where we are and more importantly where we are going.

Matt

Hey Matt... Your time is appreciated. I must say that I got spoiled living in the land of KCET. Their HD programming looked phenomenal. Hopefully your station can get what it needs to get some of that beautiful HD programming headed our way. In the meantime, keep up the good work.

I live 2 miles nw of churubusco indiana.my antenna is a resurrected 5ft channel master parabolic @50 ft w/a winegard pre-amp using rg-6 coax.I receive all of the South Bend uhf stations (full power and 50 % of the time lp-digitals)also the low power analogs ch25,57,and 69.Also ch 23 wndy which is now ch 32 digital the transmitter is located at Arcadia Indiana just north of Noblesville.Also wsot-lp ch 57 analog in Marion Indiana.The other Indianapolis stations are iffy depending on band conditions.In a sad note wttk Kokomo will be going dark at there Windffall Indiana transmitter location in the summer of 2009 which means the end of wttk/wttv in ne and north central indiana.They will be broadcasting from the nw side of Indianapolis.This also means cable systems primarily Mediacom customers will lose this channel there headend site for wttk is at North Manchester.The parabolic has gobs of gain but has a very narrow beam width makes it a little tough for longer haul signal tweaking.The elevation here is good but I,m socked into low spot compared to the ground around me( lots of trees).The FCC web site shows a construction permit in Auburn,Indiana ch 26 dt/lp with a pattern good to the west,north and south.Long Live Tv DX

The FCC web site shows a construction permit in Auburn,Indiana ch 26 dt/lp with a pattern good to the west,north and south.Long Live Tv DX

Who requested that permit? Can you post a link?

Oh, nevermind. I see it's a DT companion to W07CL.

PBSMatt,

Thanks for your response! I know that a lot of the information you provided was already scattered through this thread however it's nice to have it all in one updated post. I suspected that PBS 39 did intend to transition to HD I just hadn't seen it confirmed yet.

I did a quick check of your website and saw plenty of info about digital but nothing really about HD. Now that you have successfully made the digital switch I would recommend you update that information to include your future HD plans as I know others in the area who don't frequent this forum will be curios. Perhaps you could even start a campaign to raise funds for HD equipment. I know it's a bad time to be fund raising and maybe you need every dollar just to keep up with the monthly bills. I'm just tossing out ideas here.

Thanks again for keeping us informed. It is greatly appreciated!

Martian21

I'm not sure why I seem to have the long posts all the time. :D

Matt

matt, I love your reads, this one was really informative.

diehard

Hey Jeff,

Any update on WANE and the DD5.1 audio feed?

I have a tv with TV Guide On Screen (TVGOS) that I have been using for over two years. I think I remember some discussion about PBS carrying TVGOS listings on their analog signal. I believe this to be true because since PBS 39 went dark I have not received any listings :-(

Does anyone know anything about TVGOS being carried on digital stations?

Can anyone else confirm an increase in the signal for FOX 55?

I am at the intersection of Wallen and Coldwater. I was receiving the signal at 36% until this Wednesday when it has jumped to 77%.

Was any one watching the Honda Classic on NBC33 this afternoon?
There were early cuts back to network, missing audio on local severe weather cut-ins, along with talent giving on-air mic checks. Are they running the place with one person or what?

Can anyone else confirm an increase in the signal for FOX 55?

I am at the intersection of Wallen and Coldwater. I was receiving the signal at 36% until this Wednesday when it has jumped to 77%.
I'm guessing it's atmospheric as my signal level is exactly the same.

Is it better to have one pre amp split for two antennas or should i have two pre amps for two antennas? Running rg-6 coax 50 ft. Live around the jay, wells, adams county corner. Pick up fort wayne fine...indy and dayton or usually iffy.

I have a tv with TV Guide On Screen (TVGOS) that I have been using for over two years. I think I remember some discussion about PBS carrying TVGOS listings on their analog signal. I believe this to be true because since PBS 39 went dark I have not received any listings :-(

Does anyone know anything about TVGOS being carried on digital stations?

TVGOS was contracted to be carried on analog PBS 39. That ended when normal programming ended. We still send it via analog to Comcast on ch 3.

It is my understanding that GemStar now Macrovision cut a deal with CBS for digital TVGOS. The CBS owned and operated stations carry the service, and I believe that the other CBS stations were given first chance to carry the information. LIN broadcasting which owns WANE-DT is not carrying the data.

I have recently been in contact with National Datacast the company that brokers the contracts to carry the TVGOS data services. I can say at this point chances are pretty good that WFWA-DT will pick up the TVGOS digital service. No timeline as of yet.

Matt

Is it better to have one pre amp split for two antennas or should i have two pre amps for two antennas? Running rg-6 coax 50 ft. Live around the jay, wells, adams county corner. Pick up fort wayne fine...indy and dayton or usually iffy.

As a general rule you want to amplify your signal as close to the source (antennae) as possible. The further you get from the source the more noise there is in the system and you end up amplifying the noise in addition to the signal.

For you case I would definitely amplify before the split. The only catch is that it is possible to amplify a signal too much so be sure to check your before and after signal levels on both sides of the split.

Testing a new base map color on the radar tonight. Take a peek and give feedback....

Testing a new base map color on the radar tonight. Take a peek and give feedback....

I like it jckrac. Can't wait to see the rain show up later tonight/tomorrow (according to Sandy) I thought 15-2 was going crazy around 4:30 today because of the new color, and the radar radius jumping back and forth :eek: , but it looks great now! I noticed the change isn't on the online radar image -- will it be changed here as well?

Another thing, is the weather bug graphic automatically activated/turn on? I just noticed Saturday morning, there was a TStorm Warning in Vanwert and I didn't see it on 15...

Can anyone else confirm an increase in the signal for FOX 55?

I am at the intersection of Wallen and Coldwater. I was receiving the signal at 36% until this Wednesday when it has jumped to 77%.

Just a side note, apparently there was a funnel cloud reported at that exact intersection yesterday... Maybe tornadic activity increase signals :D

I have recently been in contact with National Datacast the company that brokers the contracts to carry the TVGOS data services. I can say at this point chances are pretty good that WFWA-DT will pick up the TVGOS digital service. No timeline as of yet.

Thank you for your response! Hopefully the TVGOS service can come online soon.

Is it better to have one pre amp split for two antennas or should i have two pre amps for two antennas? Running rg-6 coax 50 ft. Live around the jay, wells, adams county corner. Pick up fort wayne fine...indy and dayton or usually iffy.if you have the funds and place to mount the aluminum use separate uhf/vhf antennas with a good low noise pre/amp :)

Is it better to have one pre amp split for two antennas or should i have two pre amps for two antennas? Running rg-6 coax 50 ft. Live around the jay, wells, adams county corner. Pick up fort wayne fine...indy and dayton or usually iffy.and don't forget the rotor

Can anyone else confirm an increase in the signal for FOX 55?

I am at the intersection of Wallen and Coldwater. I was receiving the signal at 36% until this Wednesday when it has jumped to 77%.

I'm over east of Georgetown by Kreager Park, and I'm getting a 55% on Fox 55 as of Monday. I don't have a special antenna of any kinda, just the DIY antenna consisting of a wooden board and some wire hangers.

I just thought I'd point out that there are some time issues on a few of the digital channels since the daylight savings switch. WANE-DT, WFWA-DT, and WINM-DT did not updat their times to the new DST (they are 1 hour behind; ie reports 9PM rather than 10PM). Also, WFFT is 12 hours off (reports 9AM rather than 9PM). WPTA and WISE seem to be correct. I am verifying this using my OTA DTV converter box, which reports the time based on which channel it is tuned to. This causes the EPG to display incorrect data as well.

I just thought I'd point out that there are some time issues on a few of the digital channels since the daylight savings switch. WANE-DT, WFWA-DT, and WINM-DT did not updat their times to the new DST (they are 1 hour behind; ie reports 9PM rather than 10PM). Also, WFFT is 12 hours off (reports 9AM rather than 9PM). WPTA and WISE seem to be correct. I am verifying this using my OTA DTV converter box, which reports the time based on which channel it is tuned to. This causes the EPG to display incorrect data as well.

I love time change.

As usual, I got into a street fight with our multiplexer trying to get it to reset to the correct time. Should be fixed as of about 3 this afternoon for WANE.

Remind me again how Daylight "Savings" Time saves us money?

I love time change.

As usual, I got into a street fight with our multiplexer trying to get it to reset to the correct time. Should be fixed as of about 3 this afternoon for WANE.

Just confirmed that WANE is now set to the correct time. WFWA, WFFT, and WINM are still off.

I have a tv with TV Guide On Screen (TVGOS) that I have been using for over two years. I think I remember some discussion about PBS carrying TVGOS listings on their analog signal. I believe this to be true because since PBS 39 went dark I have not received any listings :-(

Does anyone know anything about TVGOS being carried on digital stations?

I second this. I would be nice if one of the Fort Wayne channels picked up digital TVGOS.

Remind me again how Daylight "Savings" Time saves us money?


No "s", its officially Daylight Saving Time. All it saves is daylight. I guess.

It helps our economy by employing people to change clocks and do tech support on the products needing changing. :D

Remind me again how Daylight "Savings" Time saves us money?

They say it saves electricity from 'shifted' daylight in the evening. (I guess they forgot about the large amount of people who wake up early in the morning, and have to actually turn ON lights... :rolleyes:)

Remind me again how Daylight "Savings" Time saves us money?For me it simply means I don't spend as much time watching tv in the evenings (therefore saving energy) because I'm too busy convincing my children it's time for bed even though the sun is still BEAMING into their room at 10:30pm... :(

Also, WFFT is 12 hours off (reports 9AM rather than 9PM).

Typical.

So is there an INC Now channel anymore, or not? I was under the impression that this was supposed to be a 24/7 service, but I must have been mistaken.

It's Saturday morning and the EPG shows a program called "Russia Today" and the screen is showing VIPIR... and there ain't a cloud in the sky.

I realize there were some server issues with the channel, but it's been a few weeks now. Is it unreasonable to expect the problems to be fixed or for WISE to put the channel to some other good use? I just don't know what that channel is anymore and therefore don't often bother watching it.

If they were actually showing RT, that would be interesting. It's a non-commercial (as far as I can tell) newscast from Russia. I've taken to watching it most evenings in my area, as my PBS station at school carries it on a subchannel weeknights at 10PM...

- Trip

This was just out local Fort Wayne radar from the local station, not from Russia. Point being, the guide said one thing and the actual program was just our local weather radar. That channel is a mess.

This was just out local Fort Wayne radar from the local station, not from Russia. Point being, the guide said one thing and the actual program was just our local weather radar. That channel is a mess.

It would be interesting, though, if the 24/7 news channel made a return and carried such programming though. That's the point I was attempting to make. :)

- Trip

In my opinion the best use of that channel would be to do away with it all together and use the bandwidth to make 33.1 look better...

Martian21

I don't know if its the Conseco effect or what-I've seen bad HD from there before-but the Big Ten Tourney had moments where it looked bad today on 15 digital.

This was just out local Fort Wayne radar from the local station, not from Russia. Point being, the guide said one thing and the actual program was just our local weather radar. That channel is a mess.

INCnow IS really slipping. Seems like most the time I turn to it, it's weather radar/maps... just a SD duplicate of 21.3 Vipir... or it's a plain black screen. The audio seems to be a problem too. When news is actually running, the station ID is really loud, and the news stories are soft. Hopefully this channel will get its act together soon [hint-hint]

It would be interesting, though, if the 24/7 news channel made a return and carried such programming though. That's the point I was attempting to make. :)

- Trip

39-4YOU carries a few news shows from Europe I believe. BTW, the program breaks seem quite repetitive. Like "We are born explorers" and the "include PBS in your will, join PBS39"... just an observation :)

Here is an update on INCnow.

We have two systems that (should) work together but they are not and they are blaming each other, so we are working on trying to resolve this problem as soon as we can. This has been very frustrating to say the least.......

Here is an update on INCnow.

We have two systems that (should) work together but they are not and they are blaming each other, so we are working on trying to resolve this problem as soon as we can. This has been very frustrating to say the least.......

I suppose one of the systems is saying it inherited all the problems from the other one?

I suppose one of the systems is saying it inherited all the problems from the other one?
:D Nice one.

In my opinion the best use of that channel would be to do away with it all together and use the bandwidth to make 33.1 look better... Martian21

I have to agree. I was mildly amused with INC Now for a while, but I've moved on. I think NBC looks pretty decent in HD on WISE, but if there's any room for improvement by dumping 33.3, then sign me up.

I'm sure the hope is that 33.3 can be used as a revenue stream for the station, but with all of these troubles, (IMO) it would be better to pull the channel until the bugs have been worked out. Frankly though, it was a cute idea whose time has come and gone.

Any new updates on WFFT broadcasting at full strength?

I think NBC looks pretty decent in HD on WISE, but if there's any room for improvement by dumping 33.3, then sign me up.


I'm lucky to be able to get both South Bend and Fort Wayne stations. If you watch NBC news on 33 it has some pixilating when there is movement, but if you can watch NBC 16 out of South Bend there is no pixilating. My guess is the extra channel is taking away the bandwidth causing the pixilating. This does get annoying at times especially when there is alot of movement.

diehard

I'm lucky to be able to get both South Bend and Fort Wayne stations. If you watch NBC news on 33 it has some pixilating when there is movement, but if you can watch NBC 16 out of South Bend there is no pixilating. My guess is the extra channel is taking away the bandwidth causing the pixilating. This does get annoying at times especially when there is alot of movement.Not bad considering WNDU has an irrelevant sub channel taking up space.

I'm lucky to be able to get both South Bend and Fort Wayne stations.

Funny you should mention that. I had my antenna guy out this weekend and he put up a new pre-amp and installed a rotor and things looked good for a while. My primary target from here in Angola is WSJV, FOX28. It wasn't looking too bad on Saturday. In fact, I watched COPS in HD and was as happy as could be. Well, it seems conditions were more favorable on Saturday then they have been since. I can get WNDU, WSBT looks great, I get CW25 too. WNIT and WBND seem to come and go, but WHME 46 doesn't seem to be giving me any trouble at all. I haven't been able to pull in FOX 28 or FOX 47 from Michigan since the weekend though and I'm really bummed about that.

I suspect a higher gain antenna might help. I have what the guy referred to as an 8-bay UHF antenna and it's just not getting the job done. In fact, WISE out of Fort Wayne has always been a challenge to pull in, as it still is now.

So, if anyone knows where I can get a deal on something that might serve me better (I'm not to proud to accept one as a gift) ;) please PM me and/or let me know how I can get in touch with you.

Not bad considering WNDU has an irrelevant sub channel taking up space.

yea, them broadcasting the SD on their second channel doesn't make any sense.

diehard

have your local "antenna guy" install a Super G it should cure your ills

yea, them broadcasting the SD on their second channel doesn't make any sense.

diehard
Unless it is being picked up and rebroadcast on one of the cable systems as opposed to the HD feed to save bandwidth?

The other option is so that they don't need to take up almost half the screen for their weather and information crawls on their HD feed so that those with SD sets can still see it.

have your local "antenna guy" install a Super G it should cure your ills

From the looks of it, that's what I've got, albeit in a bit of disrepair. I think my biggest obstacle right now is the fact that some of the South Bend stations, WSJV in particular, are still in a state of transition. Hopefully once June rolls around, power will be increased and they'll all look as good as WSBT does right now. In the meantime, I guess I'll do the best I can to live with the hit & miss reception.

have your local "antenna guy" install a Super G it should cure your ills

I might beg to differ with you, I have two Channel Master 4228's coupled with two Channel Master 7775 amp's and the signals are great from both South Bend and Fort Wayne.

I know this can be debated, but it works good for me.

diehard

I might beg to differ with you, I have two Channel Master 4228's coupled with two Channel Master 7775 amp's and the signals are great from both South Bend and Fort Wayne.

How far is each location from where you are?

Is there any update on WANE or WPTA getting DD 5.1 working. I finally got a 5.1 system and notice that only WISE seems to be in DD 5.1 while the others are in DD 2.0. Thanks.

How far is each location from where you are?

I'm 43 miles from South Bend and 20 miles from Fort Wayne. Funny thing is, I get more signal strength from South Bend than I do from Fort Wayne.

I set this up before any stations from Fort Wayne were broadcasting in digital and I thought I needed something more powerful to get the South Bend stations.

I tried a number of different options but this setup was the best.

diehard

I'm 43 miles from South Bend and 20 miles from Fort Wayne. Funny thing is, I get more signal strength from South Bend than I do from Fort Wayne.

Well, I'm in Angola and I'm roughly 40 from FWA and 60 from SBD. With the exception of WSBT (which I always get at a 100% reading), my reception is a little better from Fort Wayne, but not much. I find my antenna aiming is very sensitive and in the case of WISE, it's critical. If I have to fiddle that much, I'd rather fiddle with getting the South Bend stations.

I'm hoping that once all is said and done, my South Bend problem child (WSJV-FOX) won't be as problematic (if I understand the FCC filings correctly) as there is supposed to be an increase in ERP once they move to DT-28 from the current 58. Hopefully that will make my reception a little less marginal than it is right now.

FYI, my backyard faces I-69 and I'm about 3 or 4 miles south of the toll road... just for reference.

2 8 bay screens stacked should be great however the weight of both antennas could be an issue.I like the 16 bay super G 'cause of wind load and weight.I would love to compare the 2 setups.The super G needs Gorrilla Glue applied to the element insulators and secured to stop "element droop"

What were the other options before the stacked 8 bays

Can someone tell me why PBS 39 sometimes runs there primetime shows in what looks like the picture frame format? We record the Saturday morning woodworking shows to watch back later. I thought that the reason was mentioned awhile back was because they were trying to keep the analog feed viewers happy but those days are gone now. If we go to the channel 49 PBS feeds the same programs are broadcast in true HD wide screen.


Thanks, Steve

What were the other options before the stacked 8 bays

1. A 4 bay multidirectional with no amp(weak signal)
2. A 4 bay multidirectional with amp(better but still had pixalating)
3. A medium directional with amp(was a pain to get it aimed right, but still weak signal)
4. An omnidirectional antenna(the round one, not enough signal strength)

I decided against a rotor because at the time WFWA was the only station from Fort Wayne broadcasting (and then it was a continous loop) and I didn't want to continually move back and forth from South Bend and Fort Wayne, which I do now. I have both antenna's combined into one feed and then amplified thru the house.

The super G needs Gorrilla Glue applied to the element insulators and secured to stop "element droop"

I don't remember having to use any glue on my Channel Master 4228 (LOL)

diehard

Can someone tell me why PBS 39 sometimes runs there primetime shows in what looks like the picture frame format? We record the Saturday morning woodworking shows to watch back later. I thought that the reason was mentioned awhile back was because they were trying to keep the analog feed viewers happy but those days are gone now. If we go to the channel 49 PBS feeds the same programs are broadcast in true HD wide screen.
This has been annoying me too! Due to the lack of HD about the only thing on PBS39 we watch is kids programming for my son and he doesn't care. It's still really annoying though, and I can't think of any reason for it to be that way.

I seem to recall first noticing it when the they were running the crawls about the digital switch. I just assumed the picture was shrunk to make room for the crawl. Now that analog (and the crawl) are gone I have no idea why the picture is still shrunk.

Martian21

and I don't recall supporting my antennas w/an I-beam

have your local "antenna guy" install a Super G it should cure your ills
I saw "the guy" today and he says it is indeed the Super G. So I guess there's not much I'm going to be able to do to improve reception from South Bend. Like I stated before, the problem child is WSJV and until they go to full-power DT on 28 in June, I'm just going to have to deal with the hit and miss reception.

I can't think of anything else I can do without throwing a boatload of money at this (which I can't afford to do) right now, but I'm still open to any suggestions.

Can someone tell me why PBS 39 sometimes runs there primetime shows in what looks like the picture frame format? We record the Saturday morning woodworking shows to watch back later. I thought that the reason was mentioned awhile back was because they were trying to keep the analog feed viewers happy but those days are gone now. If we go to the channel 49 PBS feeds the same programs are broadcast in true HD wide screen.


Thanks, Steve

I brought this issue up in here back in February when it first began. PBS changed their satellite distribution, so that it is all hi-def. Since WFWA is not broadcasting HD now, all programming from that feed has the goofy look for SD shows. pbsmatt commented about it back on page 108 if you want to take a peek.

and I don't recall supporting my antennas w/an I-beam

Nope, nothing that elaborate. I have both mounted on a Radio Shack 10' mast with an eave mount. No guy wires or any other bracing. Been that way for 16 years and both channel masters for the last 6 years.

Also the CM4228 is now obsolete and has been replaced with CM4228HD. I think they made the antenna in pieces to save shipping and added HD to the end so they can charge another $15.

Heres a good link comparing the different antenna's using independent data:

http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/comparing.html

diehard

I have been installing Televes xg-43's. I have tested and posted signal levels on many antennas. The televes Dat-75 is one of the finest aerials around. search for info on it. Also the xg-43 is installed on St.rd. 101 just south of Antwerp Rd. It is mounted on the garage roof to avoid trees on a five foot tripod and a ten foot mast. No pre-amp and a C.M. u/v combiner with a high band Winegard aimed at Edgerton,On. for D.T.12 Fox on Dt-36 is a solid go all the time even at low power and 200 feet above terrain.

I would be interested in seeing your test results,methods of measuring,antennas etc sound kinda fun!!

Hi there! I'm a new member, but not new to the forum. I have checked here often over the last couple of years to get the scoop on local OTA digital broadcasts. You've all been very informative and entertaining. Thanks for that. :)

Does anyone know of a professional company in the Angola/Auburn/Fort Wayne area who installs antennas and will run coax in residences? A company that you trust, with experience, who knows what they're doing? I didn't want to just pull names from the phone book, without knowing anything about them.

The husband and I are sort of flailing around in the dark when it comes to antennas, and preamps, etc. It seems like everything I've done so far is WRONG, and ends up in me wasting stupid amounts of time and money on "solutions" that don't work for us.

My home is located in the middle of downtown Auburn. There are other tall homes and very large, mature trees surrounding and dwarfing our home. We have a small directional UHF antenna (the kind antennasweb directed us to buy) in our garage attic. The antenna is the flat, wedge-shaped type that can be mounted outside as well as inside, which came with a tiny preamp. We sometimes can get up to 80% signal on most channels, only 40% on PBS, and nothing when it comes to FOX. Zippity, zilch. And from what I hear on this forum, I have no hope of ever getting FOX in my home again. :mad:

Can anyone help me with advice on my situation, or a referral? I just want to be able to turn on the &*$%# television every once in a while, without there being angst involved! :D

Can anyone help me with advice on my situation, or a referral? I just want to be able to turn on the &*$%# television every once in a while, without there being angst involved! :D

Welcome!

I feel your pain about the situation with WFFT-DT. They are truly a disgrace. I would love to see them lose their license over this mess, but I suppose as long as they're running a full-power analog, they're safe. Still though, I think they're an embarassment to the Fort Wayne broadcasting community.

If you want the number of a good, reliable antenna guy in your area, PM me and I'll send it to you. He's been in business down there for a long time and does good work.

Also the CM4228 is now obsolete and has been replaced with CM4228HD. I think they made the antenna in pieces to save shipping and added HD to the end so they can charge another $15.

Heres a good link comparing the different antenna's using independent data:

http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/comparing.html

diehard

I have both the CM4228 and Winegard 9032 mounted indepently at a hight of 50 feet AGL. The Winegard 9032 outperforms the Channel Master on every channel by at least 20%. The good thing about the 4228 is that it has the ability to pick up high band VHF. If you don't need to pick up high band VHF, I would definately choose the Winegard.

I would be interested in seeing your test results,methods of measuring,antennas etc sound kinda fun!!

If you look at the gains for these antennas you will find the Televes Dat-75 listed under "D"

http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/comparing.html

I have both the CM4228 and Winegard 9032 mounted indepently at a hight of 50 feet AGL. The Winegard 9032 outperforms the Channel Master on every channel by at least 20%. The good thing about the 4228 is that it has the ability to pick up high band VHF. If you don't need to pick up high band VHF, I would definitely choose the Winegard.

Not that I'm a salesman for Channel Master, but if you look at the net gains from CM4228 and the Winegard 9032("N") the CM4228 has better gain overall. One thing too is both the Winegard and Televes antenna's are highly directional which high gain antennas like these one are big, hard to aim, and hard to keep up in bad weather. Also the CM4228 has better gain than the Televes Dat-75 (I like the orange look, tho).

I think once you get up into these higher performing antennas the gains comes into play mainly in your higher fringe areas which is where I'm at. Remember I started when the signals were pretty low, so I needed something with a higher gain.

diehard

If you look at the gains for these antennas you will find the Televes Dat-75 listed under "D"

http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/comparing.html



Not that I'm a salesman for Channel Master, but if you look at the net gains from CM4228 and the Winegard 9032("N") the CM4228 has better gain overall. One thing too is both the Winegard and Televes antenna's are highly directional which high gain antennas like these one are big, hard to aim, and hard to keep up in bad weather. Also the CM4228 has better gain than the Televes Dat-75 (I like the orange look, tho).


diehard

The Winegard is very directional, I should have mentioned that. However, it consistantly picks up stations over 60 miles away when the Channel Master seems seems to work better for stations closer than 60 miles. I currently have the Winegard pointed at Dayton (65 miles away) and the Channel Master at Ft. Wayne (45 miles away) and things work perfectly. Each antenna has separate coax and pre amp. The antennas are separated by a remote control A/B switch at the television. I never adjust the rotor to switch between Dayton & Ft. Wayne, just press a button on my remote controll.

I enjoy this antenna talk!! The Winegard long corner reflector should exhibit less over gain,but the narrow beam width should help with longer haul stuff i.e. the added directors in front of the "bowtie",also the Winegard should have less trouble with "ground noise" .But the 8 bay Channel Master wins in gain nothing beats antenna "capture area" and active elements.These ideas being tossed around is great keep up the good work!!

Hi there! I'm a new member, but not new to the forum. I have checked here often over the last couple of years to get the scoop on local OTA digital broadcasts. You've all been very informative and entertaining. Thanks for that. :)

Does anyone know of a professional company in the Angola/Auburn/Fort Wayne area who installs antennas and will run coax in residences? A company that you trust, with experience, who knows what they're doing? I didn't want to just pull names from the phone book, without knowing anything about them.

The husband and I are sort of flailing around in the dark when it comes to antennas, and preamps, etc. It seems like everything I've done so far is WRONG, and ends up in me wasting stupid amounts of time and money on "solutions" that don't work for us.

My home is located in the middle of downtown Auburn. There are other tall homes and very large, mature trees surrounding and dwarfing our home. We have a small directional UHF antenna (the kind antennasweb directed us to buy) in our garage attic. The antenna is the flat, wedge-shaped type that can be mounted outside as well as inside, which came with a tiny preamp. We sometimes can get up to 80% signal on most channels, only 40% on PBS, and nothing when it comes to FOX. Zippity, zilch. And from what I hear on this forum, I have no hope of ever getting FOX in my home again. :mad:

Can anyone help me with advice on my situation, or a referral? I just want to be able to turn on the &*$%# television every once in a while, without there being angst involved! :D
When you state PBS is only 40 % meaning signal strength?? if so and your not getting any pixels in your picture then I would just live with it.WFFT how sad, how very sad,I assume with good weather the tower crew will get started making the antenna change .

WFWA-DT has filed an application requesting an increase in ERP from 90 kW to 153 kW.
http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/pubacc/prod/eng_tv.pl?Application_id=1250616

Hi there! I'm a new member, but not new to the forum. I have checked here often over the last couple of years to get the scoop on local OTA digital broadcasts. You've all been very informative and entertaining. Thanks for that. :)

Does anyone know of a professional company in the Angola/Auburn/Fort Wayne area who installs antennas and will run coax in residences? A company that you trust, with experience, who knows what they're doing? I didn't want to just pull names from the phone book, without knowing anything about them.

The husband and I are sort of flailing around in the dark when it comes to antennas, and preamps, etc. It seems like everything I've done so far is WRONG, and ends up in me wasting stupid amounts of time and money on "solutions" that don't work for us.

My home is located in the middle of downtown Auburn. There are other tall homes and very large, mature trees surrounding and dwarfing our home. We have a small directional UHF antenna (the kind antennasweb directed us to buy) in our garage attic. The antenna is the flat, wedge-shaped type that can be mounted outside as well as inside, which came with a tiny preamp. We sometimes can get up to 80% signal on most channels, only 40% on PBS, and nothing when it comes to FOX. Zippity, zilch. And from what I hear on this forum, I have no hope of ever getting FOX in my home again. :mad:

Can anyone help me with advice on my situation, or a referral? I just want to be able to turn on the &*$%# television every once in a while, without there being angst involved! :D

I live in Auburn and have installed several antennas. At my parents house on the north east side of town, I installed an CM4228 and a CM7775 pre-amp and it works pretty good. Lately, however, it seems they have trouble with WANE. They live in a really wooded area. I'm hoping that when WANE goes full power, they will stop having issues.

At my house on the north end, I basically installed the same setup, CM4228 with CM7775 pre-amp. I get all stations fine (except for WFFT). On occasion, if the weather is just right, I'll pick up a weak WFFT.

At a friends house that is south of downtown, I installed a CM4224. He was on a budget, and so the reason for the smaller antenna. I think I also used a Radio Shack preamp of some sort. That one worked ok. He switched to cable, and hasn't used it in a few years. But back when he did use it, the stations were not as powerful as they are now, so I can't really provide any meaningful reception data for that one.

My grandma lives on the south west side of town and has the cheap radio shack yagi for UHF only, with no preamp. I just recently installed a DTV box for her, and she seems to get all the stations (except for fox) perfect, even WINM, which all of use with the CM422x antennas do not get (because the transmitter is behind our antennas).

In all cases, I used RG6 Quad shield wire for the long runs.

Hope this info helps.
Ryan

Any new updates on WFFT broadcasting at full strength?

Yeah, just an update on that... I sent an e-mail to the address listed on their website for such inquiries. I kept it pretty short and sweet and still have had no reply in over a week. Perhaps the e-mail link should be removed if they're not going to reply.

On my latest Comcast bill, it mentions that MLB HD will be added to the Digital Classic package on channel 258. It also mentions that due to some kind of disagreement, the NFL Network may not be carried after May 1st.

WFFT how sad, how very sad,I assume with good weather the tower crew will get started making the antenna change .

Somehow I don't beleive that the weather is the reason for the delay. :( I'm happy to say that WSJV has been looking excellent all weekend. Things will only get better when that station moves to it's post-transition channel and higher power which is supposed to happen in June, just a matter of weeks away.

Earlier this year, I was able to get OTA primetime shows on 21.2 (The CW) broadcasting in HD, but now, no such luck. Is something going on with the feed?

I've never seen 21.2 in HD. That would be cool. You might try 25.1 (27) out of South Bend, if you can get that from where you are.

I've never seen 21.2 in HD. That would be cool. You might try 25.1 (27) out of South Bend, if you can get that from where you are.
I've not ever seen 21.2 in HD either but also agree it would be very cool. I would think that two 720p feeds would be possible. Would probably have to drop 21.3 but I (personally) don't see that as a loss (I edit 21.3 and 33.3 out of my channel lineup anyway) - Quality over quantity!

WPTA uses the CW+ (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_CW_Plus) network feed. Because the CW+ service was designed for analog cable and digital subchannels, HD is not available to them. I've heard late 2010 as a possible start date for HD on CW+, and that was "at the earliest."

- Trip

Anybody getting PSIP data from Fox? I don't know how long its been now, maybe a few weeks, but I'm not getting any show information from them.

Somebody have the low down on this?

It's not that they aren't broadcasting EPG. The problem is that they are sending out a timestamp that is 12 hours behind. Therefore, you are attempting to look for EPG information of 12 hours ago, which you're not getting. I emailed the engineer and he never responded to me, nor has he fixed the issue.

It's not that they aren't broadcasting EPG. The problem is that they are sending out a timestamp that is 12 hours behind. Therefore, you are attempting to look for EPG information of 12 hours ago, which you're not getting. I emailed the engineer and he never responded to me, nor has he fixed the issue.

Typical.

FOX Fort Wayne (WFFT) has set Monday April 6th as the launch of the 10:00 pm newscast. Ads have been appearing this week. Jim Blue, newly hired news director, is the head anchor as well. He was most recently with a station in Toledo. Kennie Berg is the meteorologist. She is from Shreveport, LA, and recently worked in Jacksonville, FL.

Jim Blue Blog (www.jimblue.com)

Ah yes, I noticed that my time always changes when I go to that channel. Stupid me. I never put two and two together.

If digital is the future, why is WFFT so far behind?!?!

Couple pages back, someone requested an update with regards to 5.1 on WANE. Didn't have one at the time, but I do now:

We've been playing with our audio gear over the last few nights inching closer to what we think the final solution is. I had to replace a different part of the chain today for a different reason, so we will be taking tonight off so we can make sure the new piece of gear is working as it should.

I'd love to have it back for the Final 4, but can't make any promises. I can honestly tell you we are close to putting it back on either way soon...

I have a catalog with a screen reflector 12 bow tie uhf antenna . i would love to have one to test. I do have the picture of it with other antennas. The company who made this aerial was JFD. Of course the catalog has a 1961 year date. This antenna could be produced again by Channel master or Winegard to help with the digital need for better antennas. By the way some of the antenna companies were Finney,JFD,Amphenol,Taco,Davis, RMS,and Tricraft.

I have a catalog with a screen reflector 12 bow tie uhf antenna . i would love to have one to test. I do have the picture of it with other antennas. The company who made this aerial was JFD. Of course the catalog has a 1961 year date. This antenna could be produced again by Channel master or Winegard to help with the digital need for better antennas. By the way some of the antenna companies were Finney,JFD,Amphenol,Taco,Davis, RMS,and Tricraft.

Hate to say this, but your comments don't make much sense? Check out the following links and see if the JFD antenna fit? Or best yet, post a scanned copy of your antenna from 1961.

http://www.godarusa.com/id72.html

Also I found this, looks like JFD (that is if it's the same JFD?) didn't do a very good job of running a environmental friendly plant considering it is on the superfund list.

http://www.epa.gov/superfund/sites/npl/nar1193.htm

diehard

I have a catalog with a screen reflector 12 bow tie uhf antenna . i would love to have one to test. I do have the picture of it with other antennas. The company who made this aerial was JFD. Of course the catalog has a 1961 year date. This antenna could be produced again by Channel master or Winegard to help with the digital need for better antennas. By the way some of the antenna companies were Finney,JFD,Amphenol,Taco,Davis, RMS,and Tricraft.
you are correct!! JFD was a company named Jarrold as I recall. On the eastside of Angola Indiana is 12 bay screen still in the air.I've often thought the same thing good catch!!

On the eastside of Angola Indiana is 12 bay screen still in the air.I've often thought the same thing good catch!!

Such a sweet find in my own backyard. I'd love to see a pic of that. I'll keep en eye out for it when I'm on that side of town.

I'd love to have it back for the Final 4, but can't make any promises. I can honestly tell you we are close to putting it back on either way soon...

Way to go, Jeff!! You are my new Heroe!!

DD5.1 Sounds great and appears to be in perfect sync on both an OTA feed and DirecTV.

FOX FW's site has news team bios tonight. If the background for the pictures for the staff is the set we'll see on TV, I'm impressed already! Can't wait til 10pm Monday! Hopefully my signal isnt pixelated...:mad: (that's WFFT's cue to increase the signal strength:rolleyes: )

I've noticed that 33 and occassionally 21 have been having a lot of dead air lately, and that at times the commercials seem off time, either resulting in network shows cutting commercials off midway through, or the dead air lingers while waiting for the network show to start.
On Monday morning (4/6) the Today Show didn't come on at 7 a.m. I didn't have time to wait around and see if it ever did come on.
I know everyone's having issues with all these changes, so I don't get too upset with it, but at some point, these glitches will get really annoying to some.

FOX FW's site has news team bios tonight. If the background for the pictures for the staff is the set we'll see on TV, I'm impressed already! Can't wait til 10pm Monday! Hopefully my signal isnt pixelated...:mad: (that's WFFT's cue to increase the signal strength:rolleyes: )
Here's a sneak peek at the set, have QuickTime player ready unlike yours truly. (http://jimblue.com/wordpress/?p=146)

ETA: I know it's supposed to be a minimalist operation, but if that's the whole set, I knew I couldn't really believe Jim that it would "astound" (unless of course that was some nicely played sarcasm). Is this what the industry would call "framed for 16x9?"

I enjoyed the FOX news. 1 or 2 small mistakes is all I could spot. I remember when INC debuted-- cameras were zooming in/out, going behind the set, etc. Congrats to WFFT, good first show!!


I have been noticing the commercial cut-ins too. It was Thurs or Fri last week, the 21 Noon news had a random commercial during a report.
The Today Show this morning was on around 7:15 when I was channel surfing. But it was cutting in and out with black.

I've noticed that 33 and occassionally 21 have been having a lot of dead air lately, and that at times the commercials seem off time, either resulting in network shows cutting commercials off midway through, or the dead air lingers while waiting for the network show to start.
On Monday morning (4/6) the Today Show didn't come on at 7 a.m. I didn't have time to wait around and see if it ever did come on.
I know everyone's having issues with all these changes, so I don't get too upset with it, but at some point, these glitches will get really annoying to some.

I enjoyed the FOX news. 1 or 2 small mistakes is all I could spot. I remember when INC debuted-- cameras were zooming in/out, going behind the set, etc.
HA, I remember that (like the camera turning back to the anchors while the chroma key was still on), if only I hadn't deleted the recording of that because of space constraints.

As for Fox, they've already got the shell for their online replay up. Even though there's no video yet, I'm surprised they were that quick.

ETA: I take that back, they pulled it. Deja vu all over again.

I enjoyed the FOX news. 1 or 2 small mistakes is all I could spot. I remember when INC debuted-- cameras were zooming in/out, going behind the set, etc. Congrats to WFFT, good first show!!

I remember the early days of KTTV FOX11 News in L.A. It wasn't a whole lot better... and that was L.A. There's certainly a lot of room for improvement, but the show wasn't bad. The writing wasn't so good, but the on camera presentation was reasonable.

Hopefully they'll work well together and things will get better as they go along.

I do like that gal from Philly. That's my home town.

I noticed on the Fox weather maps they highlight the county coverage area. It has 3 more counties than WANE and INC have on their maps... (Elkhart & Miami in Ind., and Mercer OH, I think) What is this based on? The analog signal has always been the worst of all the Ft. Wayne stations, and we all know about the digital signal. Does the signal really go that far out to be considered in the WFFT area?

Good evening all.

Tonight, WANE's air feed both analog and HD was glitched several times. This was done to return WANE to full time, true 5.1.

The report from the station is we are up and running. It was a bit of a nightmare but we think we finally have it whipped.

I don't have a 5.1 capable system at home, so I'm relying on reports from the station.

CBS has changed a few things since we lost 5.1, and I think I made all the changes needed with the Dolby gear. Those of you with 5.1 capable systems let me know if you think there is a problem.

Thanks for your patience.

I noticed on the Fox weather maps they highlight the county coverage area. It has 3 more counties than WANE and INC have on their maps... (Elkhart & Miami in Ind., and Mercer OH, I think) What is this based on? The analog signal has always been the worst of all the Ft. Wayne stations, and we all know about the digital signal. Does the signal really go that far out to be considered in the WFFT area?
Check this DTV gain map (http://www.fcc.gov/mb/engineering/maps/images/callsigns/WFFT.gif) and you'll have your currently-theoretical answer.

Check this DTV gain map (http://www.fcc.gov/mb/engineering/maps/images/callsigns/WFFT.gif) and you'll have your currently-theoretical answer.

Now that is really funny!!! It shows AFTER the transition, and when will that be again?

diehard

Now that is really funny!!! It shows AFTER the transition, and when will that be again?
When the FCC stops giving them reprieves... oh, wait.

What I want to know is if the coverage is going to be that shape, why throw it towards Elkhart? They already have a capable station, if anything, WSJV should be throwing signal over here! (Not that I'm having trouble receiving it or anything.)

I'm guessing there's more population in that direction. I can see WFFT wanting to get the most bang for their buck. On the other hand, I'm so glad there's WSJV. I haven't watched Fort Wayne TV in quite a while now. I'm quite satisfied with the coverage from South Bend.

I'm quite satisfied with the coverage from South Bend.

I agree with that accept I still watch alot of 33 and 15. Sienfield, NBC news, Dr Phil and 15 has the best programs in HDTV like NCIS, Survivor, Amazing race, Criminal minds. Then 28 with 24, Hells kitchen, House, Sarah Conners and Prison break.

diehard

I still watch alot of 33 and 15. Sienfield, NBC news, Dr Phil and 15 has the best programs in HDTV like NCIS, Survivor, Amazing race, Criminal minds.

I get NBC from WNDU and CBS from WSBT and ABC from WBND. As far as Seinfeld, Friends, and the like, I get those from WCWW. The thing for me is, the Fort Wayne news stations don't seem to make much of an effort to do more than read an occasional blurb about us folk up here in Steuben County. And it seems like the weather up here passes through South Bend on its way to us anyway, so the SB stations usually give us better coverage too. And frankly, watching Indiana's News Center is like watching some cheezy college production. It's hard to take them seriously with the crappy production value. That's not the case with the SB stations. In fact, the WSBT local news is presented in HD.

So, I'm just hoping the post-transition signal levels will be better and the occasional outages (especially on WSJV-DT) will be a thing of the past and I can forget about ever watching the Fort Wayne locals.

So, has anyone seen the ads on WFFT regarding digital channels?

"Please remember, your digital receiver is fully capable of receiving a digital signal, but it will not find the channel on its own. There may be many channels that you could be receiving if you tell your receiver to look for them."

Stupid FOX. I'm assuming the only way we'll get a quality HD signal may end up being through Dish/DirecTV. If I remember correctly, Dish should stat broadcasting locals in HD sometime this month?

By the way, the Masters is looking great on WANE Jeff :)

So, has anyone seen the ads on WFFT regarding digital channels?

"Please remember, your digital receiver is fully capable of receiving a digital signal, but it will not find the channel on its own. There may be many channels that you could be receiving if you tell your receiver to look for them.
How about "Television as we know it will be gone in two months. Are you ready?" Response: "You first."

Now that I've actually gotten to see it on TV as opposed to the online pieces, the newscast is much better than could be expected from 55; if they can keep sports out of the format and do less of the local-business pieces (which I sure hope weren't paid for, given 55's rep), they've got something. And the set does look better -- and taller -- on TV. I must have caught it on a bad night though, a few miscues at the switch. The Nexstar closing logo needs to go; it's bad taste in that 15 and 21 don't do that, and putting your NASDAQ symbol on it???

I get NBC from WNDU and CBS from WSBT and ABC from WBND. As far as Seinfeld, Friends, and the like, I get those from WCWW. The thing for me is, the Fort Wayne news stations don't seem to make much of an effort to do more than read an occasional blurb about us folk up here in Steuben County. And it seems like the weather up here passes through South Bend on its way to us anyway, so the SB stations usually give us better coverage too. And frankly, watching Indiana's News Center is like watching some cheezy college production. It's hard to take them seriously with the crappy production value. That's not the case with the SB stations. In fact, the WSBT local news is presented in HD.

So, I'm just hoping the post-transition signal levels will be better and the occasional outages (especially on WSJV-DT) will be a thing of the past and I can forget about ever watching the Fort Wayne locals.

Seems like whenever FW Stations cut in for weather alerts, they cover NE Ind okay, but when the storms get to Ft. Wayne, Curtis rambles about low level rotation in the atmosphere. Meanwhile, Sandy attempts to get the info out, but can't keep her county names straight. After that, they almost always disregard any warnings for NW Ohio. I hope their watching Lima or Toledo stations when the next storm comes! By the way, anyone notice WFWA goes out during almost any thunderstorm?

I love your 'cheezy college' wording for INC. It REALLY fits. Especially when Curtis chants Pinpoint Vipir HD over and over. You should count the number of times he says it -- it's insane. The 'HD' in the branding must be to lure people to watch them. In reality, it's only high-def on 21.3, but who really watches that when half the time, all it shows is the Indiana's NewsCenter logo.

I guess I don't blame you for not watching Fort Wayne! I've never been able to get any distant stations to the west, only east. In fact, I got an analog signal few years ago from a PBS station in western PA!

I gave up on Fort Wayne television 30 years ago! Does anyone remember WNDU channel 16 's weather man the late Dick Addis w/ his black magic marker?? and weather word of the day,now that was creative! Dick R.I.P.you were one of the greats!!!!

Especially when Curtis chants Pinpoint Vipir HD over and over. You should count the number of times he says it -- it's insane. The 'HD' in the branding must be to lure people to watch them. In reality, it's only high-def on 21.3, but who really watches that when half the time, all it shows is the Indiana's NewsCenter logo.


WPTA's sub channel 21-3 is presented in 16:9 Widescreen, but it is definately not high-def. The main channel 21-1 is the only HD feed.

If I remember correctly, Dish should stat broadcasting locals in HD sometime this month?

All I've heard on that is that it's supposed to be 2Q of this year. It would be great if it happened this month. I don't know how good DISH has been at sticking to their schedule, but the sooner the better.

Visited Wfft today and the tower work is ready to begin. The new antenna is uncrated . The design seems to be a side mounteddesign. The feed of the waveguide input is in the middle of the antenna. The copper waveguide is waiting in crates. It would be nice for us antenna installers if the antenna could go up a few hundred feet more than the 700ft. mark. Oh well you cant have everything that makes sense.I did get pictures and will need to figure a way to post them.

WPTA's sub channel 21-3 is presented in 16:9 Widescreen, but it is definately not high-def. The main channel 21-1 is the only HD feed.

Well, in that case, Pinpoint VIPIR HD is not available in high-definition at all!

Glad you could visit, but when are they going to istall the antenna?

Diesel lifting equiptment is on site along with other parts for an ice bridge to protect the waveguide when it comes from the tower base into the one million watt erp transmitter. First they will add guy-wires because the tower is loaded with cell antennas and a mmds antenna as well near the top. It does look promising so hold on just a bit more . This is good!

Diesel lifting equiptment is on site along with other parts for an ice bridge to protect the waveguide when it comes from the tower base into the one million watt erp transmitter. First they will add guy-wires because the tower is loaded with cell antennas and a mmds antenna as well near the top. It does look promising so hold on just a bit more . This is good!

That's great to hear! Your update is much appreciated. So, if you had to guess, would you say... two weeks, a month? Any idea? Thanks!

This work depends on weather and if all parts have arrived and of course safety concerns. I am sure the families of these riggers pray alot understandably . I have seen a 2000 foot tower go up in three weeks in Springfield,Mo. And man those tv mast are massive! Lets all chill and let the crews do the work. This is a busy year for tower riggers.

This work depends on weather and if all parts have arrived and of course safety concerns. I am sure the families of these riggers pray alot understandably . I have seen a 2000 foot tower go up in three weeks in Springfield,Mo. And man those tv mast are massive! Lets all chill and let the crews do the work. This is a busy year for tower riggers.

Any guy work is tricky business. When we had ours changed out to foritfy the tower a few years ago for DTV, it was the most tense I've ever seen the tower crews.

That being said, if my memory is anywhere near accurate, they had the guys replaced and tower fortified, along with a new 8 inch run up the tower, in about 2 or 3 weeks. Not a job for the faint of heart, that is for sure.

This is a busy year for tower riggers.

Well, yeah I suppose. Mostly earlier this year and last year. No sense trying to put lipstick on this pig.

Visited Wfft today and the tower work is ready to begin. The new antenna is uncrated . The design seems to be a side mounteddesign. The feed of the waveguide input is in the middle of the antenna. The copper waveguide is waiting in crates. It would be nice for us antenna installers if the antenna could go up a few hundred feet more than the 700ft. mark. Oh well you cant have everything that makes sense.I did get pictures and will need to figure a way to post them.

Well, if I was a businessman and invested in this company I would want to see some return on my investment. So far WFFT finally spent some big hard cash on upgrade and to have it sit on the ground collecting dust would really be upsetting. Now would NOT the time to be obstanant about the DTV switchover.

diehard

This is a busy year for tower riggers.Do we have local tower riggers or is this something we have to hire out-of-town expertise?

Do we have local tower riggers or is this something we have to hire out-of-town expertise?

That is a good question.

I can only speak from what I know from a WANE perspective: there used to be a local company based in Fort Wayne, but I don't know how involved they get (or if they are still in business anymore.)

The main tower crew we used is based in Indy. There is another company out of Evansville that contacts us every couple months.

To be honest, we used an out of town company for both our low power temporary HD antenna and for the main side mount located near the top of the tower. Reason being is we get a better rate as a station group and our parent company has a very large insurance requirements that is easier for the bigger companies to justify. Perhaps Nexstar uses the same thought process.

I have no signal from all WFWA-DT channels right now. I noticed at 4pm, but they were on 3pm. Anyone else have this problem? Also the NOAA weather audio on 15-2 and 21-3 is out.:confused:

I have no signal from all WFWA-DT channels right now. I noticed at 4pm, but they were on 3pm. Anyone else have this problem? Also the NOAA weather audio on 15-2 and 21-3 is out.:confused:

NOAA is working on the transmitter. They did the same yesterday....

Today the tower crew was working on the mast of Fox Ft.Wayne. The bucket carrier was traveling up the tower. The crew is from Oklahoma and they are a hardy looking bunch of dudes. I asked one of them if they worked on the Kytv 2000 foot mast in fordland , mo. He looked like someone I knew but no luck. Wow! Are we getting anxious or what?

It's good to hear there's progress being made. Thanks for the report, aerial.

Today the tower crew was working on the mast of Fox Ft.Wayne. The bucket carrier was traveling up the tower. The crew is from Oklahoma and they are a hardy looking bunch of dudes. I asked one of them if they worked on the Kytv 2000 foot mast in fordland , mo. He looked like someone I knew but no luck. Wow! Are we getting anxious or what?

Do you work at WFFT or are you just good friends with someone who does work there?

Today the tower crew was working on the mast of Fox Ft.Wayne.

So, did they make any progress on Friday? Are they working on Saturday? Do tell. ;)

From what I've been reading, it appears that WFFT is getting things on track, so my reception issues with them will be soon resolved:) At least, we hope so!

My question is regarding WISE's digital signal. Does anyone else have issues with it dropping for seconds at a time? Also, I only have had trouble during the week, on weekends its fine. For example, last weekend I was able to watch it for a couple hours without so much as a blip. The, come Monday night the wife and I go to watch Chuck and end up having to switch to the SD feed from Dish. The strangest thing, it says the strength is at 63-68, then 0, then so on and so forth...REALLY frustrating. The worst part is that WPTA, WANE and WFWA all come in with absolutely NO issues whatsoever. 70-90% strength on every one of them.

Am I the only one struggling with this?

I don't know where you are, but I'm in Angola and I've had similar issues with WISE. Antenna aiming has been critical and still, WISE can be a bit problematic (not so much for WPTA and WANE, don't get me started on WFFT :D). I'm hoping these are pre-June12 growing pains and it will all come together after the big day. Although from the FCC filings I've read, it looks like they're already operating at their post-transition power.

I guess I just don't live in one of those "you'll get a perfect picture off of rabbit ears" areas. I got spoiled in L.A. where everyone was on Mt. Wilson and you could get a perfect picture with an indoor antenna. I'm waiting eagerly for June 12 before I spend any more money on a fix.

This is not on WFFT's web site yet, however, according to their application to the FCC, they plan to be full power by May 1st (http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/cdbsmenu.hts?context=25&appn=101284506&formid=387&fac_num=25040)

Hopefully full power soon!

Watched 55's new 10 PM newscast clear through for the first time last night. Before that I would have made some smart remark that the amount of money spent on the newscast would have been better spent towards getting powered up digitally. Now that I've seen it, wouldn't have made a difference.

My question is regarding WISE's digital signal. Does anyone else have issues with it dropping for seconds at a time? Also, I only have had trouble during the week, on weekends its fine. For example, last weekend I was able to watch it for a couple hours without so much as a blip. The, come Monday night the wife and I go to watch Chuck and end up having to switch to the SD feed from Dish. The strangest thing, it says the strength is at 63-68, then 0, then so on and so forth...REALLY frustrating. The worst part is that WPTA, WANE and WFWA all come in with absolutely NO issues whatsoever. 70-90% strength on every one of them.

Am I the only one struggling with this?
WISE's signal has always been very touchy and as stated earlier antennae aiming is key! With numbers less than 70% you are going to have issues with WISE no question about it. You will need to find some way to get a little more signal going down the wire. I was never able to tune WISE reliably with less than a 70+ signal level.

I don't know why WISE's signal is so much harder to tune than the others but it is. Now that I have my antennae positioned correctly I've not had a single problem with WISE in months. We watched most of Chuck and Heroes last night with no issues.

Martian21

This is not on WFFT's web site yet, however, according to their application to the FCC, they plan to be full power by May 1st (http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/cdbsmenu.hts?context=25&appn=101284506&formid=387&fac_num=25040)

Hopefully full power soon!

Did you also notice the small note: "WILLFUL FALSE STATEMENTS ON THIS FORM ARE PUNISHABLE BY FINE AND/OR IMPRISONMENT"

I say if it's not up by May 1, we call the law! :D

Did you also notice the small note: "WILLFUL FALSE STATEMENTS ON THIS FORM ARE PUNISHABLE BY FINE AND/OR IMPRISONMENT"

I say if it's not up by May 1, we call the law! :D
Nah. Given the history, somebody would already be doing time, or Nexstar would be out of business by now.

WISE's signal has always been very touchy and as stated earlier antennae aiming is key! With numbers less than 70% you are going to have issues with WISE no question about it. You will need to find some way to get a little more signal going down the wire. I was never able to tune WISE reliably with less than a 70+ signal level.

I don't know why WISE's signal is so much harder to tune than the others but it is. Now that I have my antennae positioned correctly I've not had a single problem with WISE in months. We watched most of Chuck and Heroes last night with no issues.

Martian21
WISE is still not at full power. We have a transmitter tube issue that is keeping it at or below 75% power. We are waiting for the FCC to approve moving to RF channel 18. There is a lot of interferance on 19 from surounding markets. As soon as we get the approval, we will be using a different transmitter here at the WPTA building on channel 18 at full power. We also have petitioned the FCC to increase the WISE power. We are hoping for the approval any day now.

WISE is still not at full power. We have a transmitter tube issue that is keeping it at or below 75% power. We are waiting for the FCC to approve moving to RF channel 18. There is a lot of interferance on 19 from surounding markets. As soon as we get the approval, we will be using a different transmitter here at the WPTA building on channel 18 at full power. We also have petitioned the FCC to increase the WISE power. We are hoping for the approval any day now.

I have a feeling that the FCC has already signed off on it and is waiting for the Canadians to say yes or no. If the FCC was going to say no to you, I imagine they already would have.

There are a long list of stations that filed as early as June 20 which are along the Canadian border and still waiting. Only a few of them have been approved, mostly those far from the border like yourself, so hopefully it will come soon for you.

How long would it take for you to implement the channel change once approved?

- Trip

I have a feeling that the FCC has already signed off on it and is waiting for the Canadians to say yes or no. If the FCC was going to say no to you, I imagine they already would have.

There are a long list of stations that filed as early as June 20 which are along the Canadian border and still waiting. Only a few of them have been approved, mostly those far from the border like yourself, so hopefully it will come soon for you.

How long would it take for you to implement the channel change once approved?

- Trip
It should take just a couple of weeks.

Bad weather the past two day's. But progress is going on. The antenna was dressed with the tower clamps in place . This beauty is going to be a side mounted antenna. The wave guide is being clamped to the outside tower leg and is about 30 feet from the ground up and climbing. Also the ice shield from the x-mitter building is being put in place. And the large rolls of heavy guy wires are waiting to be hoisted up as well. The copper wave-guide is very large in diameter and looks like nothing the other stations are using. The cage bucket is present and is dangling on a hoist line made of steel. Thats it for now, I do have pictures. I need to have help with this on how to post them for your viewing.

Are the pictures something that wfft could host with all of their other DTV pics?

http://fortwaynehomepage.net/content/dtvconstruction

I do have pictures. I need to have help with this on how to post them for your viewing.

How about Picasa (http://picasaweb.google.com/) or perhaps Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/)?

WISE is still not at full power. We have a transmitter tube issue that is keeping it at or below 75% power. We are waiting for the FCC to approve moving to RF channel 18. There is a lot of interferance on 19 from surounding markets. As soon as we get the approval, we will be using a different transmitter here at the WPTA building on channel 18 at full power. We also have petitioned the FCC to increase the WISE power. We are hoping for the approval any day now.

Well that's good news then. Once all that gets worked out, the Fort Wayne stations should be blasting up this way with high numbers. Thanks for the update, jas.

Can anyone answer why WFFT's SD material looks so bad? Especially certain promos and certain aspects of their newscast.

Is it their transmitter?

WFFT doesn't seem to have much of a budget for production. You're seeing the effect of that.

I mean even national spots look and sound like ass

Just noticed last night that WFFT is finally broadcasting guide data like all the other stations. You can finally see whats showing for the next 8 hours!

Might as well beg for 3-7 days of data while I'm at it :p

From what I've been reading, it appears that WFFT is getting things on track, so my reception issues with them will be soon resolved:) At least, we hope so!

My question is regarding WISE's digital signal. Does anyone else have issues with it dropping for seconds at a time? Also, I only have had trouble during the week, on weekends its fine. For example, last weekend I was able to watch it for a couple hours without so much as a blip. The, come Monday night the wife and I go to watch Chuck and end up having to switch to the SD feed from Dish. The strangest thing, it says the strength is at 63-68, then 0, then so on and so forth...REALLY frustrating. The worst part is that WPTA, WANE and WFWA all come in with absolutely NO issues whatsoever. 70-90% strength on every one of them.

Am I the only one struggling with this?

I watched Chuck too, but I didn't see any dropouts or anything like that and I live north of the tri-lakes area. You can read my previous posts to see what kind of antenna I have. I currently have 81% signal strength from WISE.

My only problem I see with WISE is they will have a lot of dead air space between programs, like between Seinfeld and NBC news. I am talking minutes of dead air.

diehard

I saw a little bit of pixelation on WISE last night, nothing real bad but definitely a few minor hiccups. I forget what I was watching though.

It's possible it was on my end but I haven't changed anything in months and the setup has been rock solid. Nothing to get overly excited about but since others had commented I thought I'd throw it out there.

My only problem I see with WISE is they will have a lot of dead air space between programs, like between Seinfeld and NBC news. I am talking minutes of dead air.

Yeah, well I hope they got the problem with the begining of SNL worked out. The show would start and then a few seconds in, they'd cut to a local promo. After about 20 to 30 seconds they'd finally re-join NBC. That's when I started watching WNDU and the FTA Virgin Islands feed of WNBC.

Yeah, well I hope they got the problem with the begining of SNL worked out. The show would start and then a few seconds in, they'd cut to a local promo. After about 20 to 30 seconds they'd finally re-join NBC. That's when I started watching WNDU and the FTA Virgin Islands feed of WNBC.

Well tonight was really bad, from the NBC to Dr. Phil was about 5 minutes of dead air. I had to check the TV, thought it burned up and stopped working on me. LOL

diehard

Well tonight was really bad, from the NBC to Dr. Phil was about 5 minutes of dead air. I had to check the TV, thought it burned up and stopped working on me. LOL

diehard

Maybe NBC for that, from another web site-

I was just watching my recording of the Friday NBC evening news on local Channel 12 here in Richmond, VA. At the 54 minute mark during a commercial the screen went black and stayed that way, with no sound until the 58 minute mark when it came back in at the end of the final story. What I would like to know is if anyone else experienced this 4 minute black out? Whether it is the result of something going on with channel 12, NBC or maybe my HR22-100.

Maybe NBC for that, from another web site-

I was just watching my recording of the Friday NBC evening news on local Channel 12 here in Richmond, VA. At the 54 minute mark during a commercial the screen went black and stayed that way, with no sound until the 58 minute mark when it came back in at the end of the final story. What I would like to know is if anyone else experienced this 4 minute black out? Whether it is the result of something going on with channel 12, NBC or maybe my HR22-100.
Yes, NBC had a problem with their network feed.

And no "technical difficulties" slide?

Enjoying LAST weekend's weather cut-ins on channel 33 this morning. Nice.

Today the waveguide is up the side of the tower about 200 feet. The antenna is just about ready with the side arms mounted to antenna. The wave guide is now sticking out of the transmitter building around 20 feet towards the tower. There is progress!

PBS39 is the only station showing the T-Storm Watch. Where is the new VIPIR HD warning bug on INC they keep advertising?

Today the waveguide is up the side of the tower about 200 feet. The antenna is just about ready with the side arms mounted to antenna. The wave guide is now sticking out of the transmitter building around 20 feet towards the tower. There is progress!

I would love to see those pics you've been taking. There are plenty of free image hosting sites. Thanks for the updates, though. They're always appreciated.

Dt-38 is currently broadcasting. But, a small problem with growing pains is happening. They will be at 15,000 watts erp. But now on running 20 watts. It will be fixed with the next few day's. The antenna is side mounted to the south west side of the tower at 500 feet in height. And will have an s.d .channel and a h.d. channel as well. I have no news on fox today because of the rain. I will report with updates.

Just to clarify, you're referring to WFFT-DT on digital 36, right? Also, the plan is still to be at 1000 kW @ 718' when all's said and done, right?

I think he's referring to W43CF-D on channel 38. It's a repeater for WINM-DT 12 in Angola. That station will do 15 kW, and better fits the description.

- Trip

Yes , WINM is going to be on Dt-38 in Ft.Wayne. It is a repeater of DT-12. Sorry for not including the call letters. And Wfft is still going on with the full power construction plans.

Well, unless their latest filing is a complete joke, they (WFFT) have 'til Friday to get up to the full 1000kW. Past history has taught me to see that glass as half empty.

does anyone know why new episodes pf jimmy kimmel live have not been shown in hd yet? the show went live in hd either last week or 2 weeks ago and i have not seen it in hd on wpta yet

Dt-38 is currently broadcasting. But, a small problem with growing pains is happening. They will be at 15,000 watts erp. But now on running 20 watts. It will be fixed with the next few day's. The antenna is side mounted to the south west side of the tower at 500 feet in height. And will have an s.d .channel and a h.d. channel as well. I have no news on fox today because of the rain. I will report with updates.

Its fixed. But, I'm just seeing a 63-2 in HD.

Its fixed. But, I'm just seeing a 63-2 in HD.

I saw 63-2 about a month ago while channel surfing.

This is not on WFFT's web site yet, however, according to their application to the FCC, they plan to be full power by May 1st (http://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/cdbsmenu.hts?context=25&appn=101284506&formid=387&fac_num=25040)

So how's that lookin' then?

So how's that lookin' then?


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub-MBJIvuOY

Wave guide is still around the 200 foot level. Not much tower work done because of rain. But the wave guide is now connected from the x-mitter building to the tower with the ice shield complete. The additional guy lines have not been added as of today. This must be done before more weight is added to the structure . Winm dt-38 digital antenna is at he 500 foot level on the pbs Wfwa tower here in Ft.wayne. I am getting good signal on an installation on Killian rd. and Campbell Rd. east of St. Rd. 101. Thats it for now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub-MBJIvuOY

Absolutely perfect.

EPG on "W38EA" 63.2 is about 10 hours off. 63.1 looks fine right now, but wasn't earlier.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ub-MBJIvuOY

Oh man, John. You so nailed it!

EPG on "W38EA" 63.2 is about 10 hours off. 63.1 looks fine right now, but wasn't earlier.
63.2 is getting up to Waterloo with average reception, but that's at half past 10 at night.

Is WINM-DT 38 and WINM-DT 12 both going to continue to map to 63 through PSIP? I am able to receive both channels at my location, however, having both map to 63 really seems to confuse my tuner boxes. Maybe make 38 map to 43?

Also in other news, I'm strangely able to receive WNDY-DT (and WNDY-TV) and WIPB-DT right now. These are out of Muncie and Indianapolis. I live on the north side of Fort Wayne! Anything going on with the atmosphere? I have nothing but a very small Terk indoor antenna in my attic that I never expected to receive anything but locals. I'm even able to get WLIO analog on occasion, and I'm seeing channel 13 analog as well right now (whatever that is)...

Is WINM-DT 38 and WINM-DT 12 both going to continue to map to 63 through PSIP? I am able to receive both channels at my location, however, having both map to 63 really seems to confuse my tuner boxes. Maybe make 38 map to 43?

Also in other news, I'm strangely able to receive WNDY-DT (and WNDY-TV) and WIPB-DT right now. These are out of Muncie and Indianapolis. I live on the north side of Fort Wayne! Anything going on with the atmosphere? I have nothing but a very small Terk indoor antenna in my attic that I never expected to receive anything but locals. I'm even able to get WLIO analog on occasion, and I'm seeing channel 13 analog as well right now (whatever that is)...
Channel 13 is most likely WTHR from Indianapolis,WNDY's Transmitter is located near Arcadia in northern Hamilton County,sounds like "local enhancement" but a good catch w/an indoor antenna!!

Here on the north side of Indy, the Fort Wayne stations were booming in last hour, along with a surprise. I received the new low power WINM-DT on ch. 38 @ 94 miles. I've attached a screenshot.

Steve

Nice catch, Steve! The vidcap is always a cool too.

Tower crew is working even today Sunday. The wave guide is all the way up to the side mounted antenna. The antenna is bolted to the eastern direction of the tower. But it is mounted just below about 40 feet from the top of the mast. So the height is 90 feet from the very tip of the analog antenna. And at this time no removal of the old waveguide and antenna the analog one as of now. I spoke to the riggers and they say within a few day's testing of the new x-mitter will and tuning of the digital will happen.

Any new updates on WFFT?

How soon we getting full power for WFFT?!?!? I want it now!

How soon we getting full power for WFFT?!?!? I want it now!

Yesterday morning at 6:45 I was receiving every Fort Wayne DTV except WFFT-DT 36. There was not a hint of DT 36. Even WISE-DT 19 was strong enough to occasionally make it through local WDNI-LP 19 (150 kW), with the tower 10 miles south of my location.

Nexstar now has a new problem. The tower for KSNF, Joplin, MO went down during a storm this week.
http://fourstateshomepage.com/content/fulltext/?cid=65151

Steve

Even WISE-DT 19 was strong enough to occasionally make it through local WDNI-LP 19 (150 kW), with the tower 10 miles south of my location.

That's got to be an interesting effect. What would you call that, digital co-channel? I've seen it in the analog world, but never in digital. I'd love to see that someday.