Springfield / Joplin, MO - HDTV [Text View] - Page 2

arxaw

06-14-05, 07:22 AM

According to this FCC site (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?state=MO&call=&arn=&city=springfield&chan=&cha2=69&serv=&type=0&facid=&list=2&dist=&dlat2=&mlat2=&slat2=&dlon2=&mlon2=&slon2=&size=9), the following stations have Special Temporary Authority permits (STAs) to operate at low power:
KOLR (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/pubacc/prod/app_det.pl?Application_id=1056779)
KSFX (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/pubacc/prod/app_det.pl?Application_id=1035243)
KSPR (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/pubacc/prod/app_det.pl?Application_id=1061356)

All STAs shown for these stations expire on 7/1/05, and none of those stations have applied for extensions. So, they *should* be full power on 7/1. Of course, that doesn't mean they *will* be.....

It also looks like KOLR will go back to VHF 10 after analog shutoff. That's the final DTV channel they've chosen to use. Chs 52-69 will eventually be auctioned off.

MSpin

06-14-05, 03:56 PM

MRUSS

06-14-05, 06:41 PM

am_pcguy

06-14-05, 08:33 PM

Hey, cool.

I did a quick scan for digital channels on my TV and picked up KOMU on 8.1 the other night. I got very low signal for about an hour then it was gone. I went up to the attic and tweaked the antenna a little bit ago...

Now I get 19.1 - ABC strong signal, and still very low KOMU (on for a bit then drops out.

BTW I'm on the south side of Nixa.

arxaw

06-15-05, 07:49 AM

Where do you see that they are moving back to 10? Their construction permit for DT shows them at 52. I know that 52 - 69 are only temporary channels but I don't see anything saying they will be at 10. At least I hope not, VHF would tick me off since I would need a new antenna.
Their "first round" in-core channel selection to use post-transition is VHF 10, and they chose no alternate channel. The application is HERE (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/cdbsmenu.hts?context=25&appn=101036953&formid=382&fac_num=28496).

They can't use ch 52 post transition anyway, because the only TV channels left will be 2 thru 51. 52 thru 69 will be auctioned off for new "wireless" services. So it's highly likely they'll get to move back to 10 when analog goes dark.

I wouldn't worry about the antenna until then though. Most highband VHF chs (7 thru 13) can be received with an antenna designed for UHF-only. And if not, a good V/U preamp (http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/7777.htm) will usually be all you'll need to add.

arxaw

06-15-05, 08:18 AM

It wouldn't surprise me to see all our locals go back to the original numbers. It will probably be a few years down the road before analog is shut down ,so I would say we are safe with our uhf antenna's for a long while.Lowband VHF channels 2 thru 6 will likely be abandoned in most of the country, due to interference that makes DTV broadcasts in that band difficult. The PBS affiliate in Little Rock (ch 2) was initially assigned a UHF channel for DTV, but they went to the FCC and begged for a VHF channel for DTV so they could use less power (VHF uses *much* less power than UHF for the same coverage area). The FCC gave them channel 5, and reception has been difficult to impossible for many of their viewers. They have given up post-transition rights to BOTH lowband VHF channel assignments (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/cdbsmenu.hts?context=25&appn=101037164&formid=382&fac_num=2770) (analog 2 & DT 5) and are awaiting a new channel assignment by the FCC. Meanwhile, most central arkansas viewers cannot reliably receive PBS-DT over the air.

WBBM in Chicago is also abandoning their lowband VHF digital channel (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?state=&call=wbbm&arn=&city=&chan=&cha2=69&serv=&type=0&facid=&list=2&dist=&dlat2=&mlat2=&slat2=&dlon2=&mlon2=&slon2=&size=9), post transition. Reception has been a miserable failure there for many viewers.

KYTV is staying UHF 44, post transition. Their application is here (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/cdbsmenu.hts?context=25&appn=101041983&formid=382&fac_num=36003)

THX10

06-21-05, 10:12 PM

Based on this information and current application stuff, one might really think that the Springfield channels will be going to full power in digitial. Anyone have additional thoughts on this?

I just wish they would open thier frickin' wallets and roll out HD.

arxaw

06-22-05, 06:45 AM

Is KSFX full power yet? Their Special Temporary Authority to operate at low power EXPIRED on 6/20/05. Application info (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/pubacc/prod/app_det.pl?Application_id=1035243)

MRUSS

06-22-05, 02:22 PM

I get 0 signal from KSFX digital channel 28. My picture is totally unwatchable on analog channel 27. If they want me to watch them, they are going to have to turn up some power.

Arkie

06-22-05, 02:40 PM

MRUSS

06-23-05, 12:36 PM

arxaw

06-23-05, 01:28 PM

Is KOLR already HD?

MRUSS

06-23-05, 05:26 PM

KOLR is only sending out a weak digital signal, no HD.

arxaw

06-23-05, 07:42 PM

The deadline for full power for the Springfield market "Big 4" affiliates is July 1, 2005.

Send complaints to the FCC DTV task force chairman, Rick Chessen.
rchessen@fcc.gov

THX10

06-23-05, 09:15 PM

I sent e-mail to KOLR asking if they will be turning the power up July 1st, the reply I received from David Smith is, we plan to be full power HD by March next year.

Nine more months of waiting for CBSHD.

I think you might be confused. KOLR has no intention of going HD until they are made to. We are only talking digitial here. Big difference.

When I have spoken with KOLR and their "reporters" during various interviews, they all have stated their parent company will not spend (and even budget) the money for HD.

JWollard

06-23-05, 10:53 PM

Looks like KSFX has increased their power. Before I could only get 35-40 on signal strength, but now it's in the mid 60s like KOLR. Though not HD, at least the digital signal is stronger. KSPR is still weak, but hopefully that also changes on July 1st.

MSpin

06-24-05, 04:09 AM

I'll believe it when I see it. KOLR in HD next year? Umm doubt it. Also make sure if the stations miss a deadline that you file a complaint with the FCC. These complaints will go into record and be brought up when stations have to renew their license.

MRUSS

06-24-05, 01:05 PM

The short answer I received said( We are currently broadcasting low power digital and plan to be full power HD by March next year.) from David Smith KOLR.

I think the key word in there is plan.

Also THX10, I don't think the FCC will ever force HD, only digital.

jliehr

06-25-05, 01:34 AM

THX10

06-25-05, 12:32 PM

Correct, that is what I meant.

I cant find my email from earlier communication from KOLR about HD, but I mentioned them earlier in this thread.

The bottom line is, the community gets hurt (or those of us that want, desire, or need HD) because they are just too damn cheap and dont care. Though I do remember that David Smith expressed frustration about who he works for.

MRUSS

06-25-05, 01:38 PM

Nexstar is the problem in my opinion,it's not our local channel employees. I think they would all like to see their channel doing HI-DEF.

I think we will probably see HD from all our local channels some time next year because the tv market place will force them to.

Once you have watched HD, it is very hard to watch SD again.I'll bet alot of people that has bought new HDTV'S have never saw an HD program on their new TV yet. They probably don't know how to get an HD channel or think all programming is HD just because of their new tv.(Does this make since,sometimes I think away to much and don't know how to say it?)I'm also getting kinda old,it's 40 years since I went to school so if I make alot of spelling mistakes on here don't think anything about it.

jliehr

06-26-05, 12:37 AM

MRUSS

06-27-05, 12:31 PM

I kinda like the way FOX promotes nascar in HD,it might cause more people to put pressure on Fox27 to do Hi-Def. I'm just happy the rest of the races this year will be in HD from NBC and TNT. Thanks KY3 if you read this, for doing HD for about 4 years now I think.

jliehr

06-27-05, 03:52 PM

gwb2

06-27-05, 05:00 PM

Has anyone contacted Nexstar Broadcasting direct? I emailed KOLR about HDTV yesterday and they responded today that it will be the middle of next year before they are HDTV capable. This is soooo frustrating that one company can hold several markets hostage on the ability to get High Definition. It's OK that they don't want to pay for their stations going HD, it's their ability to keep me from getting it from sources that are available to provide it to me.

If anyone has an email address into Nexstar Broadcasting, I would appreciate it. Has anyone called them direct?

Does sending an email to the fcc have any effect? Surely they are aware of Nexstar Broadcasting and their antics in all of their markets.

I think it is kind of funny that KOLR used to say in their reply emails that it will happen when consumer demand is there. I would love to know how many emails they receive a day that ask the HDTV question. I know that I am sending a quick email to them each time something comes on that I want to watch in HDTV, that is not available due to them. I encourage you all to do the same. Let's make sure that they continue to hear from us.

arxaw

06-28-05, 06:17 AM

... If anyone has an email address into Nexstar Broadcasting, I would appreciate it. Has anyone called them direct?Here's Nexstar's contact info:
http://nexstar.tv/about.asp

.
Does sending an email to the fcc have any effect? Probably more than sending one to Nexstar. I would email the station and Nexstar and "CC:" it to:
rchessen@fcc.gov

MRUSS

06-28-05, 01:13 PM

I couldn't seem to find an e-mail address to Nextar,but I did send the FCC one and told them what I thought.

Thanks arxaw for the info.

BrodyPenn

06-28-05, 05:15 PM

I just recently bought a home in SE springfield, near the Battlefield Mall. I would like to purchase a new antenna to put in my attic to receive digital stations. I currently have a 30yr old antenna up there and can get KOZK at 100% and KYTV fluctuates around 65-85-0. KSFX can be around 60% with enough work with the placement. I recently went over and talked to the fellas at Stereo One and they recommended the Antennacraft CCS-1025 antenna for my attic. They said I should be able to pick up a good signal on all of the channels, and even some of the Fayetteville stations with it. What my question is...... I see a lot of you use a UHF only uni-directional antenna. To my knowledge the CCS-1025 is a bi or multi-directional VHF/UHF. Is that why the guy I talked to said I might be able to pick up the Fayetteville stations. Also, I live in an area with many large trees. Any recommendations will be greatly appreciated. I would like to avoid the antenna on the roof if at all possible, but if I have to, what would be the most attractive and functional one. I really am glad I found this forum and I agree that it is pretty weak that 3 of the 4 major networks in our area are operating like a pirate radio station in terms of signal strength. I was really bummed when I bought my Sony HDTV and found out only KY3 and KOZK were the only two with HD.

MSpin

06-28-05, 07:01 PM

I use a CM 4228 in the attic and I get 95 on NBC and PBC 65 on FOX and CBS and 0 on ABC. But that is because it is in the wrong direction and I don't want to install a rotor.

Stereo one is full of it, and I have come to never believe anything they say. You won't get Fayetville channels from where you are. I have tried a high powered directional antenna and couldn't get anything and I live near the the 60 and 65 intersection on top of a hill so not too far from you. You don't need VHF yet in springfield unless KOLR gets DT-10 in the end. you only need VHF if you want analog channels like 3 and 10 but you can get both those in digital right now using UHF.

arxaw

06-28-05, 07:41 PM

KOLR-DT is eventually going back to VHF ch 10 (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/forms/prod/cdbsmenu.hts?context=25&appn=101036953&formid=382&fac_num=28496), but most UHF antennas will also pick up highband VHF (channels 7-13) no problem.

BrodyPenn

06-28-05, 08:03 PM

mspin,

do you have yours in your attic or on the rooftop? I was thinking of going with the 42XG or the 91XG from antennasdirect

if anybody knows if these might work in an attic let me know...

thanks,

MSpin

06-29-05, 12:38 AM

You can put them in an attic but you do lose about 20 to 50% of signal in an attic depending on the roof. You will need a rotor with those models since they are unidirectional. Where are you trying to get a signal that you would need an 91XG? The springfield towers are only around 17 miles away.

I used a DB4 for awhile and it worked fine in my attic

I installed a Winegard 4400 in a friends attic in ozark and he's pulling in 100 on PBS and NBC and 70s on CBS and FOX. ABC-DT is still on a small antenna over on Trafficway so no signal there.

http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?CAT=&PROD=SPR4400

Great deal at $21 also look at the 8 bay for $48

arxaw

06-29-05, 07:35 AM

For 45 miles or closer, the CM 4221 (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?main_cat=3&CAT=&PROD=ANC3021) is an excellent choice.

For farther away, or for low power stations, the CM 4228 (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=ANC4228) would be better. It is very directional, though, and requires precise aiming.

A good add on for weak stations, multiple TVs or long coax runs is the CM 7777 (http://www.solidsignal.com/search_results.asp?main_cat=0&search_crit=7777&SiteREF=SSCOM&I1.x=0&I1.y=0) low noise, high gain preamp. If you're thinking of getting a cheap amp from a bigbox store, don't bother. Most of their db and noise ratings are exaggerated.

BrodyPenn

06-29-05, 02:09 PM

Ok.... looks like I am going to go with the CM 4228 from solidsignal*com. Are they better products than the ones offered at antennasdirect*com.... such as the DB4? Thank you for your help and quick replies. I shouldn't need a rotator for here in Springfield right? I could really care less about ABC right now, especially since they do not have Monday Night Football anymore. Sunday Night Football on NBC will hopefully be HD :)

arxaw

06-29-05, 02:35 PM

The DB4 (4bay bowtie) is much more similar to the smaller CM 4221 (also 4bay) than it is to the larger 8bay bowtie CM 4228. From other posts I've read, Channel Master rates the gain for their antennas much more conservatively than other companies. So, strictly going by gain numbers doesn't mean too much when comparing antennas from different companies.

I've read on this forum that the antennasdirect products work pretty well. But the CMs are also very highly rated on this forum. I know firsthand that both the CM 4221 & 4228 are excellent.

BrodyPenn

06-29-05, 03:40 PM

works for me... ordered the 4228

thanks for the advice

am_pcguy

06-29-05, 04:12 PM

I have a Channel Master Crossfire 3677 attic mounted. I'm in Nixa and pick up very good HD signal from KY3, KLOR10, and PBS. I also get all the SD local channels for Springfield. I can't get WB very well though. I might try a small indoor antenna inline to lock in WB (My wife really wants the Gilmore Girls...ech).

We don't have cable so I went with an antenna that would provide good VHF and UHF reception.

MRUSS

06-29-05, 04:21 PM

I received e-mail back from fcc on July 1st deadline.

They say,
To date we have received three waivers from Springfield Mo. stations.(we all know who they are don't we, ha.)Copies are available from our Reference center. If you are interested in commenting on these filings, you may do so by filing comments on our ECFS system accessible from our main web site: www.fcc.gov

arxaw

06-29-05, 05:08 PM

The only "waiver" I see for KOLR is a special temporary authority (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/pubacc/prod/app_det.pl?Application_id=1056779) (STA) to operate at low power, which expires 7/1/05.

Here's the list of KOLR's applications (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/cdbs/pubacc/prod/app_list.pl?Facility_id=28496).

To seach for applications and other station info, go here (http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/tvq.html) and enter the station's call letters only.

diverdown

06-29-05, 09:22 PM

Does anyone know if KY3 is going to show Nascar in HD this season? I believe last year they only showed Nascar is SD even though HD was available from NBC.

BrodyPenn

06-29-05, 11:15 PM

I am almost certain that all of the Nextel races on NBC will be HD. And if you have TNT-HD some will be on there as well. As for the Busch series I do not know. I know the race at Daytona on Sat night is in HD. At least it is listed that way on TitanTV

THX10

06-30-05, 06:36 AM

I tell you, this is pathetic. With our market ranking (rating) and the population we serve (MSA) one would think that the FCC would deny any exepmtion and that our local stations would actually know what customer service is. IMHO

MRUSS

06-30-05, 01:53 PM

I sent the FCC another complaint, I dought it will do any good but I feel better. I let them know it's pretty bad in this day and time when people in Canada can see our network programming and we can't.

BrodyPenn

06-30-05, 02:51 PM

The Canadiens can keep thier beer, but I want my HDTV back eh!

THX10

07-03-05, 02:13 PM

Looks like they have bumped their power somewhat. Over here in SW Springfield I can now receive all channels. Strength bounces around though.

Arkie

07-07-05, 10:46 AM

Looks like they have bumped their power somewhat. Over here in SW Springfield I can now receive all channels. Strength bounces around though.

I have seen no such change in signal strength down here. Still have signal in the 20's on both KOLR and KSFX, and a big 0 on KSPR.

KOZK is up around 50 however.............

BrodyPenn

07-08-05, 12:25 AM

Got my CM 4228 today and hung it in my attic. Great reception on all channels except KSPR of course. KOLR is around 63% but is stable for the time being, KSFX is 75% and KYTV,KOZK, WB are 100%.

Couldn't be happier, thanks for the advice everyone :)

MRUSS

07-08-05, 02:31 PM

I didn't know WB was broadcasting digital yet. I have forgot their digital number, but doing a scan I can't get them.

BrodyPenn

07-09-05, 11:41 PM

Ya, I am an idiot....lol... I meant UPN... don't they show the same programs anyways..lol

BrodyPenn

07-13-05, 12:36 AM

Great to see the All-Star game in beautiful HD tonight! :~) oh wait.... thats right! We don't get Fox in HD..............arggggggh....

Blaine Doss

07-13-05, 04:49 PM

Great to see the All-Star game in beautiful HD tonight! :~) oh wait.... thats right! We don't get Fox in HD..............arggggggh....

What stations for sure are doing network HD content KY3 and PBS and ????

jliehr

07-13-05, 06:15 PM

From what i've heard ABC is the only other company that has concrete plans for HD. CBS and Fox are going to postpone it forever and ever it looks like.

MRUSS

07-18-05, 01:38 PM

Do you have any info on KSPR 33 doing HD, and a timeline, jliehr? I haven't heard anything on them. I wish they would, I might watch some ABC if they do.

jliehr

07-19-05, 09:42 AM

From what i'd heard it's going to be late 2006 to 2007. But these things can always change.

THX10

07-28-05, 10:24 PM

Where did you hear that from? Was it from the station or just "talk"?

MSpin

08-01-05, 08:35 PM

FOX's license is up for renewal on Feb. 1 2006. That means that if you want to comment on the station and nextar to the FCC; now is the time. As the application is being reviewed for renewal, letters that deal with if the station and it's owners are operating in the public interest are reviewed. All letters must be filed before Jan 1, 2006.

I don't know about you all but I don't think Nextar is operating KSFX in the public interest. The slow adoption of new technology like HDTV and a high powered Digital signal are two reasons I will be filing a letter.

THX10

08-01-05, 11:21 PM

Is there a way to file an "e-letter" or does it have to be filed via the USPS? Also, is there a way to see who has filed or how many letters are on file?

MSpin

08-02-05, 08:23 PM

I sent an actual letter, I don't know if you can review other letters or get a total number of letters. You would have to ask the FCC they do have an info line I just dont know it. They would also be able to tell you if you can e-file a letter to the application.

THX10

08-12-05, 11:50 AM

Have there been any changes with Shriva or whatever it is called as far as "moving"? I cannot find any info on it.

Also, a bit off topic, but I am looking for a second HD receiver for my bedroom. CC and BB wont move much on their price since they dont "own" the equipment. Anyone know of anyplace I can pick one up cheap.

Just wondering.

arxaw

08-12-05, 12:08 PM

Have there been any changes with Shriva or whatever it is called as far as "moving"? I cannot find any info on it.

Also, a bit off topic, but I am looking for a second HD receiver ... Anyone know of anyplace I can pick one up cheap...Try wallyworld (link (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.gsp?product_id=2598451)). You may be able to get one even cheaper at a local walmart in the open-box/closeout rack, usually near the electronics dept.

arxaw

08-12-05, 12:59 PM

Have there been any changes with Shriva or whatever it is called as far as "moving"?... Not sure about any law changes, but AFAIK, you can still "move" your DirecTV service address to select addresses in Mountain View, AR and receive distant network channels (including DNS-HD) from DirecTV. DirecTV does not sell locals (ie Springfield or Little Rock) in Mountain View, AR, so parts of it still qualify for DNS.

Notice: Mountain View, AR is very hilly. Some addresses can receive TV OTA from Springfield or Jonesboro. So, those addresses will not qualify for DNS - only addresses in valleys will qualify for DNS service.

The following address *is* in a valley, and cannot receive the big 4 networks OTA:
401 DOGWOOD AVE, APT (add an apt number)
MOUNTAIN VIEW AR 72560-6211
COUNTY: STONE
;)

THX10

08-12-05, 06:17 PM

Sorry about that reciever question, i meant DirecTV receiver but thanks for that info on the OTA receiver

am_pcguy

08-15-05, 09:55 AM

Has anyone else noticed that KY3 hasn't been sending HD signal?

I have a 4:3 HDTV and when an HD signal is sent I have letterbox horizontal stripes. If it's just a digital signal not HD I get letterbox all the way around. The KY3 news is always letterboxed all the way around. Crossing Jordan, Law and Order are only letterboxed on the top and bottom. In the last week I've noticed that a number of programs that are normally in HD are just Digital signals.

Has anyone else noticed this?

arxaw

08-15-05, 10:30 AM

I noticed that while I was flipping channels the other night. Don't remember the show, but I do remember it was HD on WNBC-DT (via DirecTV) but only SD on KYTV-DT.

BrodyPenn

08-20-05, 01:32 PM

The Tonight Show and Conan were in HD last night, so mine is working ok. I did notice however, that during last weeks NASCAR race, that about halfway through the event, KY3 switched back to 480i. There were storms in the area so, that may have had something to do with it.

arxaw

08-20-05, 04:53 PM

When I lived in Little Rock the CBS affiliate there would switch to 480i during severe weather or on election night so they could put crawlies at the side and bottom of the screen. Sometimes it got old.

THX10

08-20-05, 06:57 PM

I noticed that today during some bike/bmx thing around 1:00 that it was being pushed in HD on 3-1.

I was starting to wonder if they were only going to push the HD signal at night, but i guess not. Which is good.

am_pcguy

08-21-05, 09:16 AM

I think the bad weather answers my question. I watched the end of the Nascar race and noticed it was in HD, then later that night several shows that should have been hd were not.

They should make a 3.3 and put the bad weather map there.

bradpatton

09-02-05, 03:18 AM

I decided to try a digital tuner again. So far I can receive KY3, UPN, and three PBS channels. I can't get CBS or Fox at all. Should I get an amplifier?

I live in an apartment in SW springfield and am using a Zenith Silver Sensor. Fantastic picture from the stations I mentioned, but I see that others are getting more.

Brad

bradpatton

09-05-05, 01:13 PM

With the Silver Sensor I was still getting break-up (which is very annoying) on KY3 and PBS. I found an amplified HDTV antenna that looked identical to the Silver Sensor on sale at Radio Shack. Now I have 5 green bars on the PBS stations! KY3 and UPN are almost there, and are 100% at night. Why does nightfall affect the signal?

Still nothing from the CBS and Fox stations! Are they not broadcasting full-strength? It's been over a year since I tried a digital tuner and I thought the situation would have improved.

I'm happy with the results this time! My investment was: $75 for an avermedia HDTV tuner card for my Mediacenter PC from Amazon.com and $40 for an amplified Silver Sensor from Radio Shack. For that small investment I can get NBC and PBS in HD, and UPN in a beautiful digital picture that makes Mediacom look HORRIBLE!

I'm having a hard time getting listings for the PBS-HD channel. If you go to KOZK's website, they only have listings for the DT channel. TitanTV and the Mediacenter guides are no better. I did find that www.KCPT.org (the Kansas City PBS station) has listings for 3 channels: DT, HD and the kids. Their listings correspond identically to what KOZK is showing!

THX10

09-05-05, 09:45 PM

jliehr

09-06-05, 12:02 AM

Was out at my dads and he was having a local sat installed. The install dude said that they will feeding KY3 and PBS (21) in October in HD over the sat. When I asked about KOLR, Fox and ABC, he said they have been told that the HD feeds will be sent to our area in 2006. We will see. I guess they are working on changing the regulations to allow that.

On a side note, I am not a big NASCAR fan, but I do have to admit that I enjoyed the race last night (Saturday) on KY3 in HD.

The install guys are really clueless for the most part. There is NO way Directv would waste the time or money on our market to upgrade to new dishes (HD LIL will require a new dish...again) AND all new HD equipment. For Directv to add Springfield in HD for PBS and KY3 would be a stupid move. The most current guesstimate of HD markets is as follows...

10/05
Detroit (Test Market)

11/1/05
NY
LA
Atlanta
Tampa
Chicago
San Fran
Philadelphia
Boston
Washington DC
Dallas
Houston

2/15/06
Seattle
Minneapolis
Miami
Sacremento
Pittsburgh
Baltimore
San Diego
Hartford
Charlotte
Nashville
West Palm
Birmingham

4/1/06
Phoenix
Cleveland
Denver
Orlando
St Louis
Indianapolis
Raleigh
Kansas City
Milwaukee
Columbus
Fresno
Salt Lake

Keep in mind that the second spaceway satellite is still yet to be launched, and these are only the top 36 markets. I would be shocked if Springfield gets HD LIL until at least mid 2007.

THX10

09-06-05, 09:09 AM

That's cool. I will still use my OTA to get the local HD signals.

But I still want Fox and CBS. I just wish these silly locals (err out of PA) would just buck up and implement it.

oh well

THX10

09-10-05, 03:28 PM

Any other DirecTV customers notice ESPN2 in HD?

Kinda nice.

techpuppy

09-11-05, 02:23 AM

Hi Everyone. This is a great forum. Thanks for the information. I also am upset that only two stations in the market are really doing HDTV. It also reminds me of the NAB ads that the locals ran about 10 years ago when the digital service was being created.

I got a call from my grandmother at work and she said I "had" to call this toll free number because the government was going to make channel 3 start charging for their newscasts. That night I watched for the ad and quickly found it. The ad claimed that unless people called local stations might not be able to continue to broadcast for free. Many of the locals ran the ad or similar ones and it was quite convincing...and misleading.

Viewers were asked to call a toll free number where you gave your name and address so you could receive more information. What they didn't tell you was by calling and giving information your name was being added to a petition and a letter to the FCC demanding that they give the new digital spectrum to exisiting stations...without charge. It further demanded that the local broadcasters be allowed to use the spectrum as they felt rather than specifying that it be used exclusively for HDTV. Quite legally the local stations can use part of their bandwidth for paging services, informational services, wireless phone services, etc.

So in essence the local stations participated in a coordinated effort to trick people into giving their names and addresses to the FCC on a petition and letters rather than send information about the proposals. (In my opinion, they lied.) To add more insult, we now have stations that would rather use their digital frequencies for a pay service instead of HDTV...directly breaking their implied promises. So much for free TV.

My suggestion? Write to the local stations who are dragging their feet. Respectfully point out that they are trustees of public airwaves and that they are failing to do so by delaying HDTV in our area. Be sure to request firmly that your letter be added to the public file for public inspection and license renewal purposes. Point out that they should carry through with what they promised. I don't view financial reasons as a valid excuse. Perhaps if the stations owned by groups sold off a couple of stations they could afford to do what all broadcasters are supposed to do...serve the public need.

While you're writing, be sure to send a note to thank 3 & 21 for their leadership and committment to viewers.

bradpatton

09-11-05, 04:57 PM

I don't know why I can't get KOLR-DT! I should post a screenshot of the crappy picture that Mediacom delivered to me of the Chiefs game today! Fuzzy with a interference lines!

Brad

arxaw

09-12-05, 01:35 PM

Any other DirecTV customers notice ESPN2 in HD?

Kinda nice."Kinda nice" is a good way to put it. I wouldn't call the soft, down-rezzed picture from D* as true HDTV any more. More like FOX widescreen (480p) before FOX went HD.

MRUSS

09-12-05, 02:11 PM

Very interesting techpuppy,I haven't saw the ad.

In my opinion, if our locals don't start doing HD soon they will just continue to lose viewers like me.
Why should I watch their crummy picture when I have 20 channels of eye popping picture. I hope to have 40 channels of HD by this time next year to chose from.

It's sure been great watching all the nascar raceing in HD since the 1st of July.Our local Fox had better hurry because Feb. will be here before you know it, and I will watch my raceing on Fox out of LA again if KSFX don't get us a signal up that we can receive. I believe NBC has the Daytona 500 next year, thanks to KY3 we can watch it in HD.

bradpatton

09-12-05, 05:15 PM

Why should I watch their crummy picture when I have 20 channels of eye popping picture. I hope to have 40 channels of HD by this time next year to chose from.

From the posts on here, it seems fewer and fewer people are trying to pick up the Digital OTA stations. Satellite certainly seems the way to go if you want an abundance of HD channels.

Maybe KOLR and KSPR are going the way of the Dodo Bird or one-room schoolhouses!

GnatGoSplat

09-14-05, 11:33 AM

I'm located in Battlefield MO, if I put an antenna in my attic, would I be able to receive KOLR-DT and KSFX-DT, or are they still so weak it would be pointless to bother?

Funny thing is I get crystal clear KYTV-HD and PBS-HD with nothing more than a cheap set of amplified rabbit ears in my basement next to the distribution splitter.

THX10

09-14-05, 07:47 PM

I live near Battlefield and have one in my attic. i do get the signals but they are a bit weak. Channel 10 and 27 that is

JonnyG24

09-15-05, 10:44 PM

I've had Dish Network for about a year, I have the HDTV package, but of course don't get the locals in HD, not even KY3 and PBS which I think is stupid. I live in central Springfield. Does anyone think it would be worth it to get an antenna to pick up the locals in HD and if I did would I get KOLR and KSFX? Also, what would you suggest for an antenna?

MRUSS

09-16-05, 11:32 AM

lawdawg

09-16-05, 12:23 PM

Has anyone with directv sucessfully been able to get waivers for springfield stations, that allow them east or west coast feeds of CBS and ABC in HD?

Thinking about getting a HDTiVO, but it's not really as appealing, if I can't watch CSI and Lost in HD. So far I'm just bittorenting those types of shows and watching them the day after. It's not real HD, but better than watching the SD/4x3 crap that KOLR and KSPR 33 put out... :(

aharris

09-16-05, 12:29 PM

I hate to beat a dead horse, but if you want all the network HD, ABC NBC, CBS, FOX, PBS, from BOTH coasts, BEV is the real deal.

Also Sunday Football ticket in HD for only $179.00

Andy

MSpin

09-16-05, 01:25 PM

How's the SimSub situation on BEV? Does it degrade the quality of the HD signal?

I know Starchoice does simsubs differently.

lawdawg

09-16-05, 03:10 PM

Does the Bev setup/option have anyway to add a DVR? While I'd like HDTV there is no way I can go back to waiting/watching commercials again.

JonnyG24

09-16-05, 04:06 PM

I would probably try a set of rabbit ears JonnyG24, before I spent much on an antenna. I would think you should be able to at least see 3 and 21 with them. I think we will have all our locals doing full power within a year if not sooner. It is worth it to see your locals in HD.

Do you have the 6000,811,921 or 942 HD receiver? They will all pick up your locals when you hook an antenna to them.

Do you have the Voom pack? I will be glad when we get the other 11 channels.

I have the 811 reciever. Bare with me because I don't know a whole lot about HD hardware, but do you just connect the rabbit ears to the reciever? And what is the Voom pack? Also, when I tried to get the DVR package and HD, they told me I couldn't have it, becuase the equipment is too expensive. Is that BS, or standard procedure? Thanks for the help MRuss.

MSpin

09-16-05, 08:21 PM

Lawndog BEV has the 9220 it is the same reciever as the Dish 942. Expensive but a decent DVR.

Johnny G. If you are a new subscriber you can get the 942, It is $250 when you subscribe to lease the box. It's around $700 to buy. Voom is a group of HD channels, they are on the 61.5 and 129 satellites. You will need the Dish 1000 to recieve them from 129. or a second Dish 300 to get them from 61.5.

If you call the retention dept at dish they should offer you the $250 lease, people have also had success with canceling and resubscribing to get the $250 lease.

s

MRUSS

09-17-05, 03:49 PM

I agree with lawdawg that once you have a dvr you just can't watch tv without it. I have the 942 and I am pretty happy with it. I had to pay the full price of 699.00, but I'm glad I did.

I will add a little to MSpin for Johnny, I'm not sure if the dish 1000 is available yet but I think dish may charge 50.00 to install what you need to pickup voom and 5.00 more per month you get 10 more channels of HD.My favorite of the 10 is Rave,Guytv, and equator.I also like the news and weather.

I would like to have Bev, but I will probably just have to wait on our own locals as my pocketbook is just to thin. I couldn't do without a dvr and the cost of the 9220 would be to much.I'm not sure how it would work if they require a phoneline connection like dish does.

JonnyG24

09-17-05, 05:57 PM

Thanks for the help. Ok I tried to use rabbit ears to pick up 3 and 21, but My signal goes to 49 and then back to 0, so the channels won't lock. What antenna should I get?

arxaw

09-18-05, 09:26 AM

JonnyG24, go to http://www.antennaweb.org and enter your address for a rough estimate of the antenna you need at your address.

If your signal is bouncing around from 49 to 0, you're likely getting multipath interference from a nearby hill or building. On analog tv, multipath shows up as "ghosts" in the picture. On digital, multipath can often prevent your receiver from getting a lock on the signal. A directional antenna usually helps with multipath interference.

MSpin

09-18-05, 07:03 PM

The Dish 1000 is available now, in limited quanity. If you don't need a superdish or any internationals at 61.5 then it's the only way to go. They are $100 to buy.

MRUSS

09-21-05, 05:12 PM

100.00 is not bad for the dish 1000 with the LNB'S on it. The expence now would be buying what switches you will need. A DP34 is about 70.00 I believe. I have always done all my own work, but it would still probably be cheaper to give dish 100.00 and let them install what you need. I curruntly have a dish 500,and 300 with 2 DP34 switches.

Now to our locals, has anyone heard anything from 10,27 or 33 giving us some full power?
I may do somemore E-mailing to them and see if they will give us a timeline. Last I heard was before March on channel 10.

MSpin

09-22-05, 09:55 AM

CBS and FOX are saying Full power HDTV by Mid 2006 right now

Currently running at 3 kw digital right now

techpuppy

09-22-05, 10:47 PM

Tygran

09-23-05, 10:58 AM

KOAM (cbs) is now broadcasting HD 5.1 in Joplin.

MSpin

09-24-05, 08:50 PM

Let me see, 33 says that their news and information is targeted soley to Springfield. They even brag that their news programming is based entirely on what people in Springfield need. Hmmm. Why do they have a full power TV station? Don't all of the residents (and consumers) in their coverage area deserve news and information? Or is it okay to ignore everyone else by taking up a full power license with only local concern? Perhaps 33 should simply go low power (as they have with digital) and let another licensee truly serve the public of the area.

Springfield 33 programming is based on what they think people in the springfield market need. That includes everyone in the DMA, Nixa, Ozark, Branson, Willard, etc. They don't just focus on springfield. There is nothing wrong with centering your broadcast around the largest population in the DMA. But they don't ignore everything else in the area, especially major stories.

They also don't have a low power digital license. They have a license for 1000kW digital but are running on a temporary low power permit until they complete construction on a high power digital antenna.

techpuppy

09-24-05, 11:31 PM

MSPIN and others,

I didn't say they had a low power digital license. But, let's face it, they're not using the power they are licensed to use and so only cover a very local area. not the market.

The remarks about their Springfield oriented programming comes from their own on-air promos. They're the ones making the claim. Ozark, Willard, Branson and Nixa don't comprise the market, population wise it's not even a majority of the market. It takes a truly major story for them to cover anything outside of the Springfield-Branson corridor. If there is a major story outside of Springfield they usually just read the information with a graphic. (It's cheap).

From the channel 33 website, "Springfield 33 KSPR has a mission. We want to be Springfield’s news station. This is why we make it a point to focus all of our editorial, community outreach and sales efforts within the immediate metropolitan area."

33 dropped their mid day newscast in favor of the informercial of the day and even last night while ABC was promoting continuing coverage of Hurricane Rita, 33 was right in their with the latest informercials.

So my point is that since the station leads the way in not being a trustee of the public airwaves why should it be surprising they're still not full power digital? Why do they take up a full power license allotment when they don't provide programming for the area? It just seems like a waste of resources. When 33 does get its act together I anxiously await vitamins, books and real estate schemes in hi-def. Other than some network programming 33 acts like a low power tv station as far as what they broadcast.

MSpin

09-25-05, 01:56 PM

They are not taking up anything, they have a license they use it. Anyone else can apply for a license in the region. There is a lot of open frequency space in this area. The problem is money. Does anyone else have the money to build a tower, aquire a license, build a station, and start offering programming. Springfield 33 isn't preventing anyone from starting a new station. Do I watch springfield 33? Only for about 4 shows. They don't have a mid day newscast because they are a waste of money. Newscasts are traditionally the biggest waste of money for networks. The infomercials are annoying and I wish they would offer something of value but they don't. They are required to broadcast at full power by the FCC, but they have a temporary permit like KSFX and KOLR to broadcast at low power digital. If you want to blame anyone talk to the FCC for granting these temporary permits.

arxaw

09-25-05, 06:27 PM

KSPR does not serve the public interest of the six counties in AR either, that are also in the Springfield DMA.

The owner's address for mailing KSPR complaints is here (http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/ws.exe/prod/callsign/prod/query.hts?Call_Sign=KSPR).

Send FCC complaints to Rick Chessen at the FCC via email:
rchessen@fcc.gov
(DTV task force chirman)

Fortunately, having "moved" a long time ago, I qualify to get FOX-HD (plus the other big 3 out of NYC) via DirecTV, as part of the HD package.

techpuppy

09-25-05, 08:44 PM

Hi MSPIN, ARXAW and others.

MSPIN: I don't know where you got your information, but: There are no new licenses available. The FCC froze all applications for new stations years ago for TV, FM, AM. So there are no open frequencies in this area or anywhere else in the U.S. available for application. So, yes, 33 does take up space. The FCC has stated they don't intend to offer new licenses until after the digital broadcasting fiasco is over. Well, they didn't use the word "fiasco"...

Newscasts are among the most expensive, yet most profitable programming on TV stations. That is, of course, assuming they do a half way decent job and attract an audience.

Since 33 isn't really serving the area perhaps they would like to become a lptv and sell off their full power license. This would be more in keeping with the FCC's original guidelines on serving the public. They would still cover the metropolitan area, get some cash, and allow someone else to serve the area.

My guess is that we'll never agree about 33. I've enjoyed the discussion, but I'm afraid it's probably getting a bit off topic for this forum.

ARXAW: Thanks for the info! I'll put it to use. I don't expect much of a response from 33, but at least it would be taking my complaint directly to the source.

MSpin

09-25-05, 09:01 PM

You are right, analog is frozen. But digital is not frozen yet. They do offer some licenses currently even with the digital fiasco (it really is a perfect word) The problem is the licensing procedure will take many years. They have to start out as a low power station until the digital low power distribution begins.

Springfield 33 is an ABC affiliate, it will never lose it's license or step down to low power. People still want their MNF. Maybe newscasts are profitable, I don't know about local. I only know about national news they hurt the bottom line.

An independent station would not serve the area as well as springfield 33 does. ABC is one of the big 4, they don't lose licenses.

MSpin

09-27-05, 11:14 AM

Speaking of KSPR. Anyone email their engineer about a timeline for HD lately? I may change my position on them if they don't get it out next year.

yornek

09-28-05, 10:35 AM

Sorry to but in (I'm new at this forum stuff) Can anyone tell me why I receive NBC hi def, but no longer PBS Hi def?

MRUSS

09-28-05, 04:14 PM

We need a little info on your setup yornek. Mine still works fine, HD is on 021-02 starting at 6 each night.

MSpin

09-28-05, 05:12 PM

Also location is important along with the equipment.

MrBeReady

09-28-05, 05:46 PM

Mine still works fine, HD is on 021-02 starting at 6 each night.

Ozarks Public Television will begin broadcasting HD 24/7 at the end of this week (on or about October 1, 2005).

yornek

09-29-05, 09:03 AM

I think "location " might be the problem. I'm only 12 miles from the ant. site, but there's a hill between my antenna and theirs. BUT...why do I get NBC and not PBS?

MSpin

09-29-05, 01:01 PM

NBC broadcasts at over 950kw
PBS at 100kw That is why you can get one but not the other.

But you should be able to get them both at only 12 miles.

MRUSS

09-29-05, 03:50 PM

Thats great news MrBeReady, and will that be on 021-02 or will they move it to 021-01?

yornek, I guess you have tried deleteing your channels and rescanning them or adding them manual.Also if you have dish network equipment you might pull the power cord then replug it and that usually fixes most problems.

MrBeReady

09-29-05, 09:03 PM

Thats great news MrBeReady, and will that be on 021-02 or will they move it to 021-01?

Don't know yet. The overall makeup of the multicast is changing; I'm not sure what the final minor channel number assignments are going to be.

MRUSS

10-01-05, 03:34 PM

Looks like we have HD 24/7 now on channel 21. Looks PBSKIDS and PBSYOU is takeing turns on 021-03. No 021-04 now.

MrBeReady

10-02-05, 05:22 PM

Looks like we have HD 24/7 now on channel 21.
Yup.

21-1 remains simulcast of analog channel 21
21-2 HD around the clock
21-3 is now simulcast of Mediacom cable channel 24 (previously 21-4): Missouri State University telecourses and PBS YOU

The PBS Kids feed is no longer available from PBS. If you saw it alternating with PBS YOU on 21-3 it was probably a quirk during the transition.

JopMan3305

10-02-05, 05:38 PM

KOAM (cbs) is now broadcasting HD 5.1 in Joplin.
What type antenna are you using to pick up KOAM in
Carthage? I live in south central Joplin, have a rooftop
directional UHF/VHF antenna pointed right at their tower,
and I have yet to get a picture! Signal strength is usually
49% and never higher than 56%. I get the local PBS HD at
94% and ABC and NBC digitals in the low to mid 80%, all
in there solid wih my Dish 811.

2ball-Joplin

10-03-05, 03:02 PM

JopMan3305

I am in North Webb City and am able to receive KOAM-HD at about 95% signal strength. Being quite a bit north of you I am a lot closer to their tower which is about halfway in between Webb City and Pittsburg. I have a Channel Master Spartan 3 (0264DSB) attached to a Winegard YA-6713 VHF Antenna. The antenna is on a pole about 30 feet off of the ground. With this setup the signal is extremely reliable.

THX10

10-06-05, 12:47 PM

Okay, this just plain sucks. Joplin can get a HD CBS station and we cant get one here in Springfield.

This is getting reall pathetic

JopMan3305

10-07-05, 03:38 PM

MSpin

10-07-05, 04:09 PM

Okay, this just plain sucks. Joplin can get a HD CBS station and we cant get one here in Springfield.

This is getting reall pathetic

Well they don't have NBC in HD

THX10

10-08-05, 07:59 PM

yeah, but there isnt any football on NBC

MSpin

10-09-05, 10:27 PM

Until next year. And that's what Sunday Ticket on BEV or SC is for.

MRUSS

10-12-05, 03:00 PM

Maybe we can get some guide info on our PBS channels from channel 21 now that they have settled on 3 cannels.

Do the direct tv receivers show guide info on all our local channels?

MSpin

10-13-05, 02:28 AM

No info on the HR10-250 for 3.2 and 21.3.

My old samsung HD directv box had guide info for everything

arxaw

10-13-05, 11:10 AM

The Samsung D* boxes will show local channel program info (provided by D*), IF connected to a D* satellite dish. This includes all local OTA analog and digital channels, and all sub channels a digital station is broadcasting.

If the Samsung D* box is not connected to a D* satellite dish, it will show digital channel program guide info provided by the station via PSIP data. If the station is too lazy to add program info or correct PSIP info, you will get little more than the station's call letters and sub-channel number(s).

Results vary with other brands of D* HD boxes.

MRUSS

10-13-05, 03:59 PM

Thanks guys, sounds like the guide data is a dish problem for sure. I only have guide info on 3.1 on my 921 & 942.

GnatGoSplat

10-14-05, 09:57 AM

I hooked up my PC with Dvico Fusion5 HDTV card in it and did a channel scan. To my surprise, I was able to pick up KSPR-DT from Battlefield. I guess with a strong enough antenna, I should be able to get all local stations in digital. For some reason, my Samsung SIR-TS160 still can't pick up 33 even though the signal strength seemed fairly strong on my PC. I can't believe it's taking our local stations so long to start broadcasting HD.

MSpin

10-14-05, 03:50 PM

The reason you can't get guide data on the 921 and 942 is that they suck. Dish network boxes are crap. I'm suprised they get any local broadcast data. I used to have E* and the 811 had no data, but now they upgraded their software to limited OTA data.

Let me add....

942 is a better box and on the way to being #2. Behind the HR10-250 of course.

langlin

10-19-05, 02:49 PM

G'day, I'm a new member here, I live on Lake Norfork, 72 miles from KYTV's transmitter and I get KY3's dt signal fine as well as KOZK. I have an antenna 45' in the air and looking through oak trees, On my Dish921 I have 110 on KYTV and 80 on KOZK. HD signals are perfect.

MRUSS

10-20-05, 02:30 PM

Welcome langlin, I think I have saw you at dbstalk. Just like me you were wanting guide info on our locals on the 921. Wonder if we will ever get it?

MSPIN thinks D* is the way to go, but I will probably have to wait and see what is going to happen over the next 6 months with MPEG4.

Looks like we are going to lose NBC & TNT in 2007 for our nascar raceing.Channel 33 had better get on the ball and get us an HD signal before then as it looks like ABC and ESPN2 will take over. I have gotten spoiled watching the races this last half of the season in HD.

I sure hope channel 27 can get us HD before the spring races start next year.

MSpin

10-20-05, 11:31 PM

Don't expect local guide data on the 921. It's a dead box for dish. Right now E* is the way to go but I'm betting on D* in the next year to take back the lead. I would have E* if the boxes didn't piss me off so much and their stupid audit team didn't keep causing me problems for no reason and the CSRs knew what they were doing. I like the 942, love the HR10-250. I want both to expand HD as quickly as possible. Spaceway 1 and 2 (if it actually launches this time) will help D* take back the lead.

THX10

10-24-05, 12:34 PM

Finally,

DirecTV has their new DNS finder on their website. Looks like I may be "moving" soon to get a HD feed for ABC, CBS, and Fox.

MSpin

10-24-05, 03:57 PM

Word of warning....

If you "move" you will no longer recieve wb or upn so if there are any shows on those channels that you watch you will lose them.

arxaw

10-25-05, 12:56 PM

THX10,

Thanks!

Here's the link: http://directvdnseligibility.decisionmark.com

SCG1976

10-25-05, 10:11 PM

Hello new to this forum and have a couple if questions. I live northwest of Springfield about 20 miles. Receive ky3hd, 21dt, 21hd, 15dt at about a 80 to 90% OTA signal. What about channel 10, 27, 33 are they transmitting a digital signal yet. When I scan for channels no luck. Are they transmitting a very low digital signal or none at all? Great forum have learned a lot from it. Thanks!

arxaw

10-25-05, 11:14 PM

They are low power; that's why you're having problems.
And their tightwad owners won't increase power until forced to by the FCC.

THX10

10-25-05, 11:20 PM

Word of warning....

If you "move" you will no longer recieve wb or upn so if there are any shows on those channels that you watch you will lose them.

As for me, that doesnt really matter since I can pick up UPN with my OTA. Other than the Cardinals games (for my wife) there isnt anything on those stations worth watching - imho.

All I care about is receiving a HD signal for Fox, CBS, and ABC.

Just a thought for those who are going to "move" in regards to football, if you are a KC fan. You might want to think about the west coast feeds instead of the east coast feeds. Reason being, the Chiefs are AFC and they generally play at noon when the west coast teams are not playing so you have better chance of picking up the game in HD as it is being broadcast out there instead of an east coast team game for the same time slot.

Make sense?

arxaw

11-01-05, 11:40 AM

If you want to "move" to get HD Distant Network Service, try addresses at:
http://directvdnseligibility.decisionmark.com

The most likely addresses to qualify will be in counties farthest from the transmitters.
You need an exact address from a town in a distant county - not just a zip code.
DMA county map: http://home.comcast.net/~dnoble48/springfielddma.gif

If an address qualifies for the HD networks the results will look like this:
http://home.comcast.net/~dnoble48/dns.gif
HD DNS channels are free for qualifying addresses if you have the HD package.

Any address on Court St in Jasper (Newton County) AR should qualify, because the tiny town is in a valley surrounded by tall hills.

THX10

11-01-05, 11:26 PM

And if I recall................

tell them that i am moving service, but not mailing address. Correct?

And that I am doing a self install. Correct?

Also,when you mention that HD is free for HD package, that means no $1.50 per month per channel even though I do not need/want the SD signal. Only HD.

MRUSS

11-02-05, 01:11 PM

The FCC should just let everyone that can't get their local channels OTA purchase the networks from satellite. That might speed up our locals into providing us a full power digital signal.
I believe we can do this at the end of next year, but it should be this way now.

nj829

11-02-05, 02:01 PM

Is D* allowing the HD DNS only yet? I haven't seen anything besides the webpage for eligibility that they are actually turing on those that call and ask. Would be great if they are now doing so.

MSpin

11-02-05, 02:55 PM

You can only get HD DNS if you get a waver from the stations. FOX, ABC, and CBS in Springfield deny all requests.

nj829

11-02-05, 03:59 PM

That is true for the analog feeds, but the new SHERVA allows digital DNS without a waiver if it is determined you are unserved. The above link that arxaw posted will take you to the page to see if your address is unserved by digital feeds as well as analog. It's just when will D* be abiding by this?

nj829

11-02-05, 04:22 PM

Ok, I just read a post under the HD programming forum that D* is turning on feeds as of now to those that qualify for the HD DNS...

langlin

11-02-05, 04:56 PM

MSpin

11-02-05, 06:10 PM

Is D* allowing the HD DNS only yet? I haven't seen anything besides the webpage for eligibility that they are actually turing on those that call and ask. Would be great if they are now doing so.

If you live in a low area far enough from the towers you can get them turned on. If your address qualifies on the DNS form that is linked above. I think they are activating them. I'm thinking about "moving" to a low area in branson.

THX10

11-02-05, 08:21 PM

If you live in a low area far enough from the towers you can get them turned on. If your address qualifies on the DNS form that is linked above. I think they are activating them. I'm thinking about "moving" to a low area in branson.

Wait a minute. Is DirecTv allowing HD without a waiver? Here is my location:

Springfield, MO 65810-2545
Standard Distant Network Service
Not available because DIRECTV offers local network programming in your area

Digital (HD) Distant Network Service
Network Affiliate Channel Status
ABC KSPR-DT 33 Grade A (strong signal)
CBS KOLR-DT 10 Grade A (strong signal)
FOX KSFX-DT 27 Grade A (strong signal)
NBC KYTV-DT 3 Grade A (strong signal)

Of course we only have 1 of those 4 HD feeds in Springfield area.

And if you going to move, you need to look over at Kimberling City instead of Branson.

MSpin

11-02-05, 11:42 PM

THX10

11-02-05, 11:59 PM

You won't get HD in Springfield, If you get a Grade A DT signal your are out of luck. I actually have a lake house in Branson that only gets a Grade B NBC signal and no signal on ABC, CBS, and FOX on DT. So they are showing elgible for HD Distant Feeds. Since I get NBC fine OTA I only need CBS, FOX, and ABC. So my lake house will work.

Hmm I used to work for the City of Branson and ran several "addresses" in low areas and got a several A and a few B signals. I thought a B signal still required a waiver.

Well, since I couldnt find a weak enough signal, I just stated looking in Kimberling City and found most anything there works.

If I recall, I need to tell the CSR that I have moved my service, did a self-install, and need to keep my billing address the same as before since this is a "lake house".

nj829

11-03-05, 09:13 AM

Grade B signals still count as receivable, so you would not be eligable with that. As far as moving, yes, just call and change your service address.

arxaw

11-03-05, 10:04 AM

If I recall, I need to tell the CSR that I have moved my service, did a self-install, and need to keep my billing address the same as before since this is a "lake house".
Yes.

That's how I "moved" quite a while back, except I didn't mention anything about a lake house or vacation home. If they ask you about the phone number, tell them it didn't change. Also, make sure you know the County you're "moving" to, as they may ask for that.

If you have the HD package and "move" to a qualified address, the HD networks will be added at no additional charge. If you don't have the HD package, channels are $1.50 each, ala carte. If the HD channels don't show up (in the 80s channel numbers), or you get error ext 721, call D* back, tell them you qualify for HD DNS channels and would like them to be activated.

To find addresses in any town, enter the city and state only at:
http://wp.netscape.com/netcenter/whitereverse.html

To qualify addresses for HD DNS:
http://directvdnseligibility.decisionmark.com

MRUSS

11-03-05, 02:38 PM

I just checked the links, and I would be eligible for ABC if I were a D* customer. I am grade b for Fox and CBS. I hope E* gets these networks up soon and maybe I can get ABC from them. I understand they have been testing them, but haven't lite them up yet.

I can't spend anymore money till the MPEG4 DVR receivers become available.We will need them for future HD programing from both company's.

THX10

11-05-05, 07:57 PM

Well this just sucks.

After 47 minutes on the phone to "move" and talking to 3 different CSRs, I cannot get the HD east coast feeds without first subscribing AND installing a second dish for the locals. She said it was something about local in local. She said that even if I subscribe now to the local channel without putting up a second dish, I still would not get the HD feed on the Networks because they work off each other when you are local in local.

sigh

nj829

11-06-05, 10:45 AM

I don't know how they can play off each other, unless that is how they are making sure people keep their locals active to ensure the affiliate getting side-stepped won't have a fit when the import the distant HD feed. Did you inquire about having the HD package and those channels being turned on without subing to locals as arxaw brings up in his post? That would be one way of side-stepping the issue if you have only one dish.

arxaw

11-06-05, 03:19 PM

... She said that even if I subscribe now to the local channel without putting up a second dish, I still would not get the HD feed on the Networks because they work off each other when you are local in local.That CSR was FOS.

You do not have to have 2 dishes to receive the DNS HD channels if you qualify for them. DNS HD is received on the same triple-LNB HD dish you already have, if you have HD.

If they now insist you must subscribe to LIL channels, I would:
1. Call back and tell them you installed your own 2nd dish at your "moved to" address and want to subscribe to LIL ($5/mo).
2.(If your move address qualifies) Tell the CSR you qualify for DNS HD per their web site and want HD DNS activated on your HD package at no additional charge.

If they give you crap, threaten to disconnect D* service and ask to speak to customer retention.

arxaw

11-09-05, 10:18 AM

Or, move to Marshall, AR where DirecTV has no LIL service - only DNS.

nj829

11-09-05, 10:25 AM

Oh my gosh, I thought all of those in Arkansas were covered now!! What DMA is that considered? Jonesboro?

arxaw

11-10-05, 11:25 AM

Oh my gosh, I thought all of those in Arkansas were covered now!! What DMA is that considered? Jonesboro?

Little Rock.

Dish Network carries the locals there, but DirecTV's spot beam for the LR market is too weak to cover that county reliably. So they dont' offer LR locals in Marshall - only DNS.

Chris Gerhard

11-10-05, 12:14 PM

You can only get HD DNS if you get a waver from the stations. FOX, ABC, and CBS in Springfield deny all requests.

I have a waiver from Fox and ABC and get those two in HD from DirecTV. I could not get a waiver from NBC or CBS. I live close to Cape Fair and can receive KOLR CBS analog OTA and KY3 NBC digital OTA.

Chris

MRUSS

11-10-05, 02:14 PM

I have a waiver from Fox and ABC and get those two in HD from DirecTV. I could not get a waiver from NBC or CBS. I live close to Cape Fair and can receive KOLR CBS analog OTA and KY3 NBC digital OTA.

Chris
Did KSFX give you a waiver at request, or are you just eligible for Fox? D*'s site shows I am eligible for ABC only and I live near Wheelerville.
I sure hope to have FoxHD before nascar starts next year.

nj829

11-10-05, 02:17 PM

Good find arxaw! I wondered where the limits of the spot beam were since the D* site has it listed as select zip codes only.

Chris Gerhard

11-10-05, 02:58 PM

Did KSFX give you a waiver at request, or are you just eligible for Fox? D*'s site shows I am eligible for ABC only and I live near Wheelerville.
I sure hope to have FoxHD before nascar starts next year.

I feel really stupid but I don't know where Wheelerville is. I am sure it is a booming metropolitan area, probably the cosmopolitan center of SW Missouri but I can't place it. I got the waiver years ago and I could not receive the Fox signal.

Chris

arxaw

11-10-05, 08:29 PM

Good find arxaw! I wondered where the limits of the spot beam were since the D* site has it listed as select zip codes only.
LR channels are on D* on Sat B (110), transponder 25. If you go into setup/signal strength meter and tune to that transponder, you'll see the signal strength is less than ideal. I'm in Carroll County and get that xponder in the low 60s, which is probably high enough to watch most of the time. But I'm sure rain fade would be a problem. Anyway, I'd rather watch HD-DNS than LR channels.

MRUSS

11-11-05, 11:37 AM

I feel really stupid but I don't know where Wheelerville is. I am sure it is a booming metropolitan area, probably the cosmopolitan center of SW Missouri but I can't place it. I got the waiver years ago and I could not receive the Fox signal.

Chris
Wheelerville is about 6 miles south of Crane at D & 248 jct. Mr. Wheeler that owned all the Consumer markets in Springfield opened his first grocery store at Wheelerville.

So your waiver is good for the HD channels also, thats great.

lawdawg

11-16-05, 06:20 PM

When I go to that directv eligibility site I get the following.

Active Server Pages error 'ASP 0126'

Include file not found

C:\Decisionmark\WebSites\DirectvEligibility\Live\20050906/LoadAppConfig.asp, line 10

The include file 'AppConfigs/DirectvEligibility/AppConfigInfo.asp' was not found. error '8000d001'

/app/includes/common.asp, line 20

:(

arxaw

11-17-05, 10:33 AM

These links work for me:
http://directvdnseligibility.decisionmark.com/
http://directvdnseligibility.decisionmark.com/app/AddressEntry.asp

If you're using MSIE browser, try a better browser like Firefox (http://mozilla.org/).

Some addresses I had entered previously that came up "qualified for HD-DNS" no longer qualify. D*may have changed their eligibility rules to true "white areas" (no locals available via D*) only.

Marshall, AR still qualifies..

nj829

11-17-05, 12:56 PM

Yep, that appears to be the case. My home address was eligible for CBS-HD, but not now. I think the site was down yesterday, as I tried it and got the same message as lawdawg, but now it's working fine.

Blaine Doss

11-21-05, 07:18 PM

Anyone having troubles with the PBS-HD feed its bouncing on my Dish 811

arxaw

11-21-05, 07:36 PM

You get PBS-HD on Dish Network? Or are you referring to the HD sub channel 21-2 on KOZK-DT? And what is "bouncing"?

I get 21-2 ok, except it looks pretty crappy during motion scenes (lots of pixelization and artifacts), due to lack of bandwidth from multilcasting during HD progarmming. I thought PBS affiliates were supposed to turn off multicasting during HD broadcasts.

Blaine Doss

11-21-05, 07:51 PM

its 21-2 OTA just stated bouncing this weekend?

You get PBS-HD on Dish Network? Or are you referring to the HD sub channel 21-2 on KOZK-DT? And what is "bouncing"?

I get 21-2 ok, except it looks pretty crappy during motion scenes (lots of pixelization and artifacts), due to lack of bandwidth from multilcasting during HD progarmming. I thought PBS affiliates were supposed to turn off multicasting during HD broadcasts.

arxaw

11-21-05, 08:03 PM

What Do You Mean By Bouncing?

Blaine Doss

11-21-05, 08:21 PM

arxaw

11-21-05, 08:34 PM

The signal picture and sound blinkes on and off... My signal was at ~90 I was just wondering if anyone else was having the same problem I get ky3-HD great... I am watching it right now :-)
No "bouncing" here. Signal strength is steady & 100% on both KOZK-DT & KYTV-DT.

I'm in Carroll County, AR, near Eureka Springs.

MrBeReady

11-21-05, 11:16 PM

I thought PBS affiliates were supposed to turn off multicasting during HD broadcasts.
There is no such requirement. However, some stations do choose to devote all their bandwidth to a single HD service.

MrBeReady

11-21-05, 11:18 PM

The signal picture and sound blinkes on and off...
Do you have this problem on HD only (21-2) or the SD services as well (21-1 and 21-3)?

Where are you located?

MRUSS

11-22-05, 12:12 AM

Anyone having troubles with the PBS-HD feed its bouncing on my Dish 811
My parents have an 811, and Friday night I had to go remove 21's digital channels out of the epg for them. It was stuck on 21-02 blinking off and on. I had a time even getting in the menu. Last time I checked it is still blinking off every once in awhile.

It blinked off on my tv tuner last night and caused my tv to reboot. I hope 21 gets this fixed soon.

arxaw

11-22-05, 08:59 AM

There is no such requirement. However, some stations do choose to devote all their bandwidth to a single HD service.There should be.

Multicasting several channels can really degrade picture quality, especially at 1080i. Less of a problem with 720p. Stations that care about PQ don't attempt it.

(do you work for OPT?)

THX10

11-23-05, 05:07 PM

Well I would still rather get Fox, ABC and CBS to just thorw up a HD signal and then try to tackle the boucning issue later. LOL

THX10

11-28-05, 06:30 PM

Silly antenna question.

I am in SW Springfield (off Plainview) and can barely pick up 10-1, 27-1, 33-1. 3-1 and 21-2 come in fine.

Is it possible to buy a second antenna (CM 3021) and just add it to my mast inside my attic and combine it with my existing run? Basically use a 2 to 1 combiner for the coax.

Will this cause any issues with OTA that I currently have?

Blaine Doss

11-28-05, 06:42 PM

arxaw

11-28-05, 06:59 PM

Are you trying to increase signal strength? If you have a 3021 (aka 4221), add a Channel Master CM 7777 preamp to your existing antenna. You can order one at http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/7777.htm and get it in about 2 to 3 days.

That would work better than attempting to combine 2 antennas.

THX10

11-28-05, 07:26 PM

Actually, I am not sure what I am wanting to do, other than to get solid reception from those digital signals.

When i moved into this house, DirecTv installed my new dish and they threw up an antenna inmy attic. It is a rather large array and I have checked to ensure it is pointing in the right direction (fordland - east of where i am at). I am within the 45 miles so i was just thinking about puttin up that second antenna and aiming it more northward towards the other channel locations.

arxaw

11-28-05, 07:58 PM

My bad. I thought they were all at Fordland, but I see otherwise on the FCC site (http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/tvq.html). You might get away with just a CM 3021 (http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/4221.htm) aimed between the two locations, as the 3021 has a fairly wide beam spread. But since all the digitals except KYTV & KOZK are low power right now, it's a crap shoot as to what will actually work. At 45 miles, you'll be lucky to get the low power stations, even with a preamp.

Here in AR, (since my rotor went out) I'm currently using 2 antennas on a single coax running to the TV. One is a big roof antenna aimed at Fayetteville and the other one is a silver sensor in the attic, aimed at Springfield. Both are combined using a common Radio Shack Hybrid Splitter/Combiner (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2062050&cp=&kw=splitter&parentPage=search), then to a CM 7777 VHF/UHF preamp (http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/7777.htm), and then to the TV. I don't get any of the LP digitals out of Springfield, but don't really care, since I also get the big 4 networks in HD on DirecTV.

THX10

11-29-05, 09:12 AM

Do you get any issues with running 2 antennas on one coax? Ghosting or othewise?

arxaw

11-29-05, 09:55 AM

Yes. Multipath ghosting on analog channels. Many digital tuners don't deal w/ multipath well, either. That's why I said it's a "crap shoot" to try it.

With newer digital OTA tuners with 5th gen chips, it's not much of a problem, since 5th gen tuners mostly ignore multipath or use it to their advantage. The newest DirecTV HD receivers (HD20) have an OTA tuner with LG 5th gen chips. DirecTV Model HD20 is free after rebate, to new or existing D* customers at both Best Buy & Circuit City.

SCG1976

11-29-05, 02:05 PM

I am northwest of Springfield about 20 miles and my tv will pickup 10, 27, 33 digitals when I scan for channels but I don't get a strong enough signal to lock on a picture. Are the low power signals coming from the station location or from Fordland? I may need to tweak my OTA antenna more toward Springfield instead of Fordland. I get almost 50% signal now since the leaves have fell. Thanks.

MSpin

11-30-05, 10:40 AM

10 and 27 are digital low power from fordland. 33 is still from the station i believe.

THX10

12-02-05, 10:02 PM

Anyone have word on any updated plans for HD with 10 or 27?

MSpin

12-03-05, 07:07 PM

I ran into a guy who does contract work for KOLR and KSFX. They are working currently on upgrading and still are leaning towards late spring 06.

THX10

12-04-05, 08:54 PM

So the definition of "late spring 06" from those guys woul be winter of '07?

arxaw

12-04-05, 10:03 PM

Or whenever the owners (Nexstar (http://www.nexstar.tv/)) get ready to.

2ball-Joplin

12-05-05, 07:44 PM

On that note, does anyone have any idea on the status of KSPR HDTV. Having the SuperBowl in HD would be kinda nice.

MSpin

12-05-05, 10:46 PM

Superbowl in HD on KSPR? Keep dreaming.

arxaw

12-06-05, 08:09 AM

Best chance for ABC HD in the area is DNS eligiblity from DirecTV (http://directvdnseligibility.decisionmark.com/app/AddressEntry.asp) or a tall fringe UHF antenna aimed at 29-1 in Fayetteville.

arxaw

12-06-05, 05:22 PM

Re KOLR & KSFX:
Nexstar is finally working on full power for their Little Rock station KARK-DT. The power company (Entergy) is working this weekend to "up" the electric supply capacity at their transmitter. Maybe Springfield's Nexstar stations will be full power soon.

Little Rock thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6667347&&#post6667347)

THX10

12-07-05, 09:41 AM

Oh Man that would be so nice. Just send those contractors up our way!

tch

12-09-05, 08:15 PM

Oh Man that would be so nice. Just send those contractors up our way!
Why do you care? I would get excited about HD... but digital? I doesn't look any better than analog to me.

THX10

12-09-05, 09:23 PM

I am making the assumption that they are going to full power with HD. If it is just full power digitial they can save the money

arxaw

12-10-05, 09:16 AM

The nexstar station in Little Rock KARK - NBC is going full power and HD in '06. That will leave WB as the only non-HD network left in LR.

ABC (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?call=katv) (HD), PBS (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?call=kets) (HD) & WB (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?call=kwbf) (SD) are still operating with extremely low power STAs in that market.

Time will tell what Nexstar does in Springfield...

lawdawg

12-14-05, 11:43 AM

KOLR (Lack of) HD update.

From : David Smith
Reply-To :
Sent : Tuesday, November 29, 2005 9:39 AM
To : "'adam litchy'"
CC : "Dean Wasson"
Subject : RE: HDTV

We have been told by corporate that we will be broadcasting full power
HD in 2006. At this point it's looking like the 3rd quarter but we're
not far enough into the project to get a date locked down. We don't give
waivers of any kind to viewers in the counties we have the rights to
serve. There's no temporary waiver system to help viewers like yourself
until we go full power but we can't give waivers to everyone that asked
for one because we would have to close shop & go home. Sorry for any
inconvenience this is causing.

-----Original Message-----
From: adam litchy
Sent: Tuesday, November 29, 2005 9:10 AM
To:
Subject: HDTV

Hello,

I was curious if/when your station has plans to actually broadcast in High
Definition? I really enjoy a varitety of CBS shows, but am now currently
downloading them off the internet, so I can see them in a 16 x 9 aspect
ratio. It is not true high def, I know, but it beats the 4 x 3 digital
signal your station is putting out now. Actually I am guessing at this
because I can not even recieve your digital signal where I live (near
Battefield.) But I do know that the stuff I can download over the
internet looks better than the SD KOLR 10 feed from directv.

You probably get tons of e-mails asking this, and I underestand it most
be boring answering this over and over, but is it possible that I could
recieve a waiver for HD feeds of of Directv?

Thanks and I appreciate any background or information you can provide me
on KOLRs plans to go to HD.

Adam Litchy

tch

12-15-05, 10:12 AM

MRUSS

12-15-05, 12:02 PM

I was last told from KSFX that they would be full power HD in March. That was awhile back so things might have changed. I think FOX has helped more than the other networks to get converted to full power HD.

I think if our locals are not doing full power by the end of 2006 we can buy it from satellite. It should be this way now.

If KOLR and the others thinks I will watch them anyway if they won't give me a waiver, they are wrong.I would think much more of them if they would give me a temporary waiver until they go full power.

Sounds like we will have more HD programming coming Jan. 5th from dish, that will keep me satisfied for now.

arxaw

12-15-05, 02:02 PM

... Sounds like we will have more HD programming coming Jan. 5th from dish, that will keep me satisfied for now.What channels are they adding?

jliehr

12-16-05, 01:02 AM

Dish is adding ESPN2, 5 more Voom channels and maybe HD DNS, and they are going to start rolling out HD LIL.

MRUSS

12-16-05, 10:52 AM

Voom has spent more than 100 million on new programming for us next year, I hope it turns out good.

Maybe I will qualify for ABC and FOX if they launch the distants HD.

arxaw

12-16-05, 01:33 PM

Don't get too excited about ESPN2. HD programming on that channel is pretty sparse.

jliehr

12-16-05, 07:03 PM

It's still a channel that I don't have now, and will be in better quality that Directv. Even if it's only a few more hd games a week i'll take it!!!

JonnyG24

12-19-05, 10:07 AM

So if all the local channels are broadcast in HD then will they transmit over a cable line or a dish so an antenna is not necessary? Can anyone give me the scoop on this?

MRUSS

12-19-05, 11:03 AM

So if all the local channels are broadcast in HD then will they transmit over a cable line or a dish so an antenna is not necessary? Can anyone give me the scoop on this?

I think it will be 2 or 3 years before we get local HD from satellite. I believe we will see all local networks (3 10 27 33) doing HD before the end of 2006 OTA.

I helped my son, (who lives N of Springfield and E of fantastic caverns turn off) put up an antenna we got at radio shack, ($25.00 uhf only) and it done a good job picking up all the digital and HD locals. It even picked up 33 digital.

THX10

12-21-05, 08:54 PM

It's still a channel that I don't have now, and will be in better quality that Directv. Even if it's only a few more hd games a week i'll take it!!!

Better quality? please explain. I have DirecTV and think their HD is of good quality.

Just curious.

jliehr

12-21-05, 11:19 PM

Better quality? please explain. I have DirecTV and think their HD is of good quality.

Just curious.

Directv is notorious for "downrezzing" programs, it really only effects the 1080i channels, but even on 720p channels Dish tends to allow a little more bandwidth to their channels.

arxaw

12-22-05, 09:05 AM

Like Dish Network (http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=47936), DirecTV does downrez 1920x1080i HD channels.
http://www.widemovies.com/directv-resolution.html
And for a while, picture quality did suffer. But they have really improved compression schemes to the point that on most channels, it's difficult to tell an A/B difference between the downrezzed pic and a local OTA pic. And if the local station multicasts (e.g. KYTV-DT 3-1 & 3-2), there is no noticeable difference in the OTA image quality and DirecTV's image quality. Example: I get NBC-HD from KYTV-DT OTA and from WNBC-DT on DirecTV. WNBC-DT's picture quality on D* looks noticeably better than KYTV-DT.

Bottom line: IMO, Local station OTA multicasts affect picture quality a lot more than D* downrezzing.

[edited to correct URL]

arxaw

12-22-05, 09:14 AM

Another example of really bad OTA HD due to mulitcasting: KOZK-DT.

I get PBS-HD OTA from both KAFT-DT in Fayetteville and KOZK-DT in Springfield. When KAFT-DT broadcasts HD programming, they turn off muliticasting (they normally run a total of 4 DT channels). But KOZK-DT attempts to run the HD channel, along with 2 extra SD multicasts. The result: KAFT-DT looks like true HD, while KOZK-DT looks more like bad DVD quality. If there's lots of motion in the scene, KOZK-DT can look like a blurry, pixelated mess in an A/B comparison.

MRUSS

12-22-05, 05:13 PM

arxaw

12-22-05, 07:09 PM

Being on 24/7 is ok but it hardly looks "hd" compared to KAFT-DT's HD. Looks like they could at least turn off the multicasts in prime time.

MrBeReady

12-23-05, 10:16 PM

I'm having a hard time getting listings for the PBS-HD channel. If you go to KOZK's website, they only have listings for the DT channel. TitanTV and the Mediacenter guides are no better.www.optv.org now has listings for the HD service on 21-2. So far it seems to be correct. The listings for the OPT-2 service on 21-3 (Missouri State telecourses and PBS YOU) are incomplete.

The TitanTV listings are still messed up. Tribune, though, has had correct DTV listings for a while now if you use any service or software that gets its listings from them (e.g. Zap2It, DataDirect).

am_pcguy

01-03-06, 01:23 PM

I looking for advice on getting a second antenna. We've cut off cable over 6 months ago. I have a fixed antenna in my attic that picks up KY3, KSPR, KLOR10, KSFX, PBS, UPN, and KY3, PBS, and KSPR on the digital side.

I'm thinking about moving my antenna to the roof or just getting a new antenna with a rotor. I live on the south side of Nixa, I'm on a hill and have good line of site in nearly every direction.

Is it worth the money? Is anyone near Springfield getting HD channels other than KY3 and PBS?

MRUSS

01-04-06, 11:24 PM

Springfield is listed as one of the cities for local HD on satellite from dish. I'm sure we will be getting local HD OTA before this can happen on satellite.

Hope this happens before the end of this year.
Got this info at satelliteguys.

MSpin

01-05-06, 09:54 PM

I saw that also, That could actually make me switch to dish.

jliehr

01-08-06, 10:43 AM

This is an interesting artice...

http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060108/NEWS01/601080370

Basically Nexstar is using is stake in both KOLR 10 and FOX 27 to extort money from the cable company in a local retrasmission agreement. They are going as far as looking to strip both companies broadcasting agreements. This will be interesting indeed to see how it plays out.

MRUSS

01-11-06, 05:10 PM

Has anyone saw anything on KY3's test channel. (003-03)

arxaw

01-12-06, 12:21 PM

Springfield is listed as one of the cities for local HD on satellite from dish. I'm sure we will be getting local HD OTA before this can happen on satellite.You are correct. The station would have to broadcast HD before D* or D* could carry the station in HD.

Saw this post regarding dish network HD over on the Little Rock, AR thread. Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6894865&&#post6894865).

MRUSS

01-12-06, 02:57 PM

This is just my opinion in why E* choose Springfield to go up HD on sat. When E* X is launched all Springfield locals will move to spotbeam. The spotbeam can't really be used for anything else because Springfield is so far from any other citi. That will leave room for local HD also on that spotbeam so they just as well use it and maybe get more customers with local HD on sat.

Also dish has lots of subs in this area because they were first to bring locals on sat.

Thats just my opinion, but what do I know?

MSpin

01-12-06, 06:46 PM

arxaw

01-13-06, 07:21 AM

Has anyone saw anything on KY3's test channel. (003-03)
Right now, they're broadcasting KYTV in 480i on 3-3.

I wish stations wouldn't do this, as it robs bandwidth from the HD channel, and PQ suffers. One extra sub channel (3-2) was bad enough. KOZK-DT also does this, and it really degrades HD picture quality.

MRUSS

01-13-06, 11:30 AM

Right now, they're broadcasting KYTV in 480i on 3-3.

I wish stations wouldn't do this, as it robs bandwidth from the HD channel, and PQ suffers. One extra sub channel (3-2) was bad enough. KOZK-DT also does this, and it really degrades HD picture quality.

I don't know why they are doing this, I can already see my picture suffering on 3-1. If I want the picture to fill my screen, I will stretch the 3-1 picture.It looks much better when I do it than what they are doing.

I wish they would move UPN to it's own designated digital channel. I can't recall the channel number the FCC gave them.

MRUSS

01-13-06, 11:46 AM

The spot beam is not as small as you think. It would cover Tulsa, Fayetville, and other areas. In springfield we can see Kansas City's spot and St. Louis' spot. Springfield was chosen (in my opinion) because this is the first market to see the percent of satellite customers that is larger than the percent of cable customers. Plus they only need space for 2 channels to be broadcast in HD where in some cities they need 6 or 7. Of course if stations like KOLR , KSFX and KSPR get their butt in line it would start to change that second idea.

Yes I have ABC out of KC, but I don't think KC's spot will cover all the Springfield market. I also wonder if the spots may be smaller on E* X because it has so many.

I hope the launch goes well for E*X as the picture quality should look much better for even the sd locals.We should know before April how things look if all goes well next month.

MrBeReady

01-13-06, 04:30 PM

I don't know why they are doing this, I can already see my picture suffering on 3-1.
KY3 feeds a lot of distant cable headends with their DTV signal instead of their analog signal (due to noise on channel 3). And the winter Olympics are coming up.

So, my guess is they've added a dedicated SD service (simulcasting KY3 analog programming) to their DTV transmission for the cable headends so that they can carry the network Olympics coverage in HD on 3-1.

langlin

01-15-06, 03:06 PM

You are correct. The station would have to broadcast HD before D* or D* could carry the station in HD.

.

Actually, Dish could pick up at the station in HD even if the station is NOT broadcasting an HD signal.

langlin

01-16-06, 05:18 PM

I don't know why they are doing this, I can already see my picture suffering on 3-1. If I want the picture to fill my screen, I will stretch the 3-1 picture.It looks much better when I do it than what they are doing.

I wish they would move UPN to it's own designated digital channel. I can't recall the channel number the FCC gave them.

They also have a signal on 3-4, my guess it's t be used for multi-channel in the Olympics

Leon

am_pcguy

01-18-06, 09:16 AM

Ok, I just got Dish Network hooked up. Don't hate me, apprently I called to check on the service and they entered me in some kind of 25th anniversary contest. I won 25 months of America's top 60 + for 2 tv's in SD. I added the HD pack and an 811 so I'll be paying $15/ month total for then next 2 years :)

Anyway, I had everything hooked up to an antenna in the attic, now they are using the coax to my theater room to feed the 811. How big of an antenna will I need to pick up KY3 HD and PBS HD? Will a set of bunny ears get it done? Any recommendations?

jliehr

01-18-06, 09:31 AM

langlin

01-18-06, 08:19 PM

chaotic646

01-19-06, 08:38 PM

Excuse my ignorance but I'm kind of new to HD. I live in Springfield and Ive been on Dish Network for a couple years now. I haven't been home much the past couple of years due to my line of work so I haven't had much time to mess with the HD until today.

Ive noticed several people saying that PBS and KY3 are broad-casted in Hi-Def but when I bring up those channels they're not. I don't understand why you can hook up your own antenna to pick them up in hi-def but you cant through your hi-def satellite receiver.

Could someone with more knowledge explain this to me? I called dish network but the kid I talked to didn't seem to know why either and was just more concerned about trying to keep me as a customer.

Also, do you guys think it will ever be possible to pick up our local stations like FOX and CBS in hi-def through a satellite receiver? My TV doesn't have a HD tuner, its just "HD-ready". So the only way I can get HD is through my receiver.

MSpin

01-19-06, 08:52 PM

If you have a 942, 811, 411, or 211 you can plug your antenna into the sat box and get your local HD channels through your sat box. Just go to the option to scan for local channels, I don't have dish anymore so I don't remember the exact menu name.

chaotic646

01-19-06, 09:01 PM

Well I don't have an antenna. I just don't understand why I can pick up local channels like NBC and PBS without an antenna hooked up to my box, but they're not in hi-def. If they are broadcasted in hi-def, and my box picks them up (channel 7226 and channel 7222) why doesn't it pick them up in hi-def?

MSpin

01-19-06, 09:51 PM

Because those are available on the Satellite, they currently are not offering HD locals broadcast over satellite due to the lack of available bandwidth on the satellite. Springfield is listed as one of the first 22 markets Dish is planning on offering when they start offering HD locals over satellite. HD in springfield is terrestial only at this time.

So a simple answer to your question, they are not broadcasting in high def over satellite so you can't pick it up with your dish alone.

AirData

01-19-06, 10:36 PM

KY3 and KSPR are showing up on list in the HD channels but it says, "This channel should be available shortly." Channels 708 and 712. Woohoo!

MSpin

01-20-06, 12:51 AM

Maybe we might just see the superbowl on KSPR via cable in HD? I knew they were installing the HD downlinks this would be a way around needing a new transmitter to get HD going.

chaotic646

01-20-06, 05:23 AM

Thanks for your replies. So its a dish network problem then. I wonder if I switched to directv if I could pick them up in HD from them?

AirData

01-20-06, 09:27 AM

Maybe we might just see the superbowl on KSPR via cable in HD? I knew they were installing the HD downlinks this would be a way around needing a new transmitter to get HD going.

Sure hope so!! And, the Olympics too!!

MSpin

01-20-06, 11:05 AM

Thanks for your replies. So its a dish network problem then. I wonder if I switched to directv if I could pick them up in HD from them?

Directv doesn't offer HD locals in springfield either. You will need an antenna.

chaotic646

01-20-06, 11:17 AM

Directv doesn't offer HD locals in springfield either. You will need an antenna.

So basically I would be better off switching to Mediacom digital cable? Mediacom is more expensive for regular channels and you dont get as many. Not to mention they raise their rates every year. Tough decision.

MRUSS

01-20-06, 01:10 PM

So basically I would be better off switching to Mediacom digital cable? Mediacom is more expensive for regular channels and you dont get as many. Not to mention they raise their rates every year. Tough decision.

I don't believe you said if you have an HD receiver from dish. If you don't, you can call them after Feb. 1st and get upgraded with a new MPEG4 receiver that will get all the HD programming and the locals when they put them up on satellite. They will also install an antenna for you to receive your locals over the air. All for a fee, 50.00 for the antenna and from 49.00 to 299.00 for the receiver, I think.