is CBS2 now doing 5.1 fulltime? it started with the giant game today and has continued thru. any thoughts?

No.

Sports are in 5.1. The only thing required to activate the 5.1 flag on your receiver is for the network engineer at WCBS to throw a switch, which he does right before the game to allow the 5.1 feed from the game. Usually, they forget to turn off the flag, which for non-5.1 material results in 2.0 sound from the left and right speakers only (Depends on your receiver). It's just a flag which means nothing.

Speaking of the 5.1 sound for the Giants game... I found that in my setup the channels carrying the crowd noise, especially the rear channels, were so loud that they completely drowned out the announcers. I had to force the receiver into stereo mode in order to hear what Simms had to say. Did anyone else notice this, and is it something that WCBS controls, or is it controled by the network feed? I guess it doesn't really matter because the Giants losing pretty much made watching the game miserable anyway.

I didn't notice anything. A couple of weeks ago, CBS made one of the college games so loud in the surrounds that my speakers were crackling. Today it seemed ok though.

Anyway, off to watch another episode of the Practice in standard definition.

I'm thinking about unsubscribing to this thread. I have Cablevision for cable, and between them and OTA, like this thread, HDTV in the metro NYC area is just standing still. I bitched about it like a year ago, and people gave me a bunch of "but what about 9/11" stuff, but that was over 2 years ago now, and Cablevision and the local networks have done nothing to restore the lost programming. Add to that the wars going on between cable companies and ESPN/ABC/Disney, and Cablevision putting all their HDTV focus on their crack satellite service which I hope gets hit by a meteor, instead of putting it on cable.

If there was a way I could screw them all I would. I'm thinking about trying to hook up one of those Canadian satellite systems, and getting DSL, and telling Cablevision to go suck a lemon.

MC

I subscribe to this thread for the very reason that I have Cablevision and I am awaiting another solution to the lack of NBC, ABC, and WB on Cablevision's HD offerings. Still holding out hope of something happening on either front, both of which I monitor on avsforum and the iO yahoo group.

The sound problem on yesterdays game was not that much of a problem I just turned down the surrounds down a little. What really sucked was the constant signal and sound dropouts all during the game there were times when there was no signal at all for 5 mins at a clip.

Needless to say it was very difficult to watch the game. BTW I received the signal OTA.

My my Microchip, such anger!!! Your anger is better spent on more important things than HD. The fact is that when you first complained about OTA HD, it WAS too early to be talking that way! 9/11 was still fresh and it was unreasonable to have expected a return to normalcy. However now, over 2 years later it is not unreasonable to have expected restoration in the biggest market in the world. I do beleive at this point it is nothing more than excuse making on the part of the networks.

Why are you so opposed to the HD satellite venture by Cablevision?

Originally posted by MicroChip
If there was a way I could screw them all I would.
MC

Seems to me this is a matter for our elected officials to bring forcefully to the attention of the FCC.

Rather than get angry, perhaps we could get together with a letter to NY, NJ and CT senators and perhaps a US representative or two to pressure the FCC to, in turn, pressure the local stations.

Mel

Originally posted by Ken Ross
Why are you so opposed to the HD satellite venture by Cablevision?

Because I am one of their cable subscribers. They are not competitive with Time Warner, Comcast and RCN, all of whom serve surrounding towns, with respect to their HD offerings (and many other things). Now they've got an idea to charge me an additional $750 plus monthly fees if we want any more HD programming, and that STILL won't solve the primary problem of the OTA locals.

MC

Originally posted by Ken Ross
The fact is that when you first complained about OTA HD, it WAS too early to be talking that way! 9/11 was still fresh and it was unreasonable to have expected a return to normalcy. However now, over 2 years later it is not unreasonable to have expected restoration in the biggest market in the world. I do beleive at this point it is nothing more than excuse making on the part of the networks.

I just battled my way through the AVS search engine (high server load...blah blah blah) and I posted the original bitch on 12-26-02, more than a year after 9/11. Why was it "still fresh" then, but now it's "excuse making"? What's the limit for when it's ok to blame the networks? More than 2 years? Who decides?

I don't think it has anything to do with 9/11. I think they're delaying the restoration of their OTA signals so they can get the cable companies to pony up the money to carry them. And Cablevision isn't doing it, they only carry the networks that already ARE available OTA (CBS-DT, Fox-DT, PBS-DT). I think they're all nickel and diming each other to death and the ones who don't get to watch is US.

MC

MC - Cablevision isn't carrying any HD signals in my area (Morristown). Even if they carry local HD signals, I suspect they'll charge more for the privilege of receiving them. Hmmm. I thought that cable companies had a "must carry" rule for local stations.

In any event, I'm going to write (once again) to my congressmen to complain about the situation. I understand that Lautenberg either doesn't have a web site, or refuses to accept them. Understandable, given his age and the way he was elected.

Still, I would think that reps from the NJ/NY are should be at least a little excited that their area is below many smaller cities in providing digital broadcasting. But maybe not - maybe they got a lot of money for their campaigns from networks and cable companies.

Disgusted with this whole mess.

C

Has anybody else been experiencing issues receiving FOX lately? Luckily, I get it through Comcast also, but the OTA signal has not been very reliable out here. Lots of breakups and many times I haven't even been able to pick up a signal. I've had no problems with CBS and WPIX, so it wouldn't appear to be hardware related. Anyone else?

cpto, what are you talking about? I am in the Morristown area and get all the CV HD channels.

I use an indoor antenna and find I have to readjust every couple of weeks to receive CBS, FOX, and PBS. PBS is always the hardest for me. CBS and FOX usually come in at 100 percent.

Anyone have problems with WB last night? I tuned in during prime-time and I got 0% signal. I know they broadcast on a bunch of different channels. Which one should I program into my HiPix?

Does anyone know if the WPIX had any HD last night? They haven't been doing HD lately.

PS To set up WPIX-DT, you need to tune to ch 12 first. After that, it doesn't matter if you do 12-1, 11-1, 11-2, 75-1, etc. all the same.

Originally posted by cpto
Cablevision isn't carrying any HD signals in my area (Morristown). Even if they carry local HD signals, I suspect they'll charge more for the privilege of receiving them. Hmmm. I thought that cable companies had a "must carry" rule for local stations.

In any event, I'm going to write (once again) to my congressmen to complain about the situation. I understand that Lautenberg either doesn't have a web site, or refuses to accept them. Understandable, given his age and the way he was elected.


You might want to double-check your situation before firing off a letter to your congressman. I'm pretty sure CV has been providing HD to the Morristown area since early in the year.

groups.yahoo.com has io.tv group..
Here, in Bergen Country with io.tv u get fox, msg, hbp, sho, cbs, fox (ed) and pbs in HD... u need 4200hd box and io.tvt service ($65+)

Originally posted by MLM
Seems to me this is a matter for our elected officials to bring forcefully to the attention of the FCC.

Rather than get angry, perhaps we could get together with a letter to NY, NJ and CT senators and perhaps a US representative or two to pressure the FCC to, in turn, pressure the local stations.

Mel
I took my own advice today and sent letters and emails to the two New York senators and to my congressman, Gary Ackerman.

Suggest you all do the same.

About the WPIX-DT not sending any HD (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=2772704#post2772704)

check out the thread above. if you guys want HD from WPIX-DT again, we need to all call and complain. I can only do so much by myself.

I checked during one of their shows. My reception sucked today, but it was HD.

When I was talking about writing to my Congressmen, it was about the slow, (lack of) OTA progress in NYC, not about Cablevision carrying HD.

When I last checked with Cablevision about a month ago I was told that there was no HD service in my area and that they didn't carry local channels.

Perhaps the situation has changed - I'll call Saturday and try to find out. Or, it may be that I just got an ignorant service rep. I know that a couple of days ago cable went out and I and at least four other neighbors called in to complain. We were all told that we were the first callers and that CV wouldn't declare an area problem until there were at least 3. We get this response all the time from Cablevision SRs, so I wouldn't be at all surprised if I was given incorrect info.

Perhaps someone with Cablevision in Morris County can mention whether Cablevision does carry NYC OTA digital channels.

C

Cablevision carries WCBS-DT, WNYW-DT, and WNET-DT. That's it so far for broadcast locals.

As for HDTV in general, it's been available in Morris County since around February, at the same time it was deployed just about everywhere else in the CV area. Check www.io.tv, there are only a very small number of areas that don't have HD.

In Morris County (and most areas), we get:

146 MSG-HD
147 FSNY-HD
148 NBA-TV (eventually with be HD for some games)
310 HBO-HD
330 SHO-HD
700 HDPPV On Demand
702 CBS-HD
705 FOX Digital
713 WNET-DT (Thirteen HD, PBS)

Was watching the Giant game today on channel 5-1, and was getting alot of drop outs. signal strength was 75% then dropped down to 0%. Normally I dont have this problem. Channel 2-1 was 95%. Anybody else have this problem during the game today or is it just me.

Originally posted by jbjbjbjb
Was watching the Giant game today on channel 5-1, and was getting alot of drop outs. signal strength was 75% then dropped down to 0%. Normally I dont have this problem. Channel 2-1 was 95%. Anybody else have this problem during the game today or is it just me.

It was brutal for me also. Luckily I was able to switch to the Comcast feed.

Anything new on the rumor that ABC would begin broadcasting from the Conde Nast building in November? Is it even possbile to get the equipment in place that fast?

If they do, would the signal be just as strong as it would have been at the ESB. The antenna on top of the Conde Nast building looks very tall.

Originally posted by jbjbjbjb
Was watching the Giant game today on channel 5-1, and was getting alot of drop outs. signal strength was 75% then dropped down to 0%. Normally I dont have this problem. Channel 2-1 was 95%. Anybody else have this problem during the game today or is it just me.
I too had problems receiving the FOX broadcast. I had attributed it to the tuner - my Samsung T-150 died and I'm using the RCA DTC-100 (which never worked all that well in my setup) - but I guess the tuner wasn't at fault. Like sangs did, I switched to Comcast (during commercials in the KC/GB game).

I'm wondering about the height of the Conde Nast building also. As this page shows, it's significantly shorter than the ESB. http://www.skyscrapers.com/re/en/wm/ci/101028/bu/ss/2/

I already have problems with the ESB due to my neighbor's roof being a little higher than mine and in line with the ESB. Who knows whether any signal from a shorter tower will make it through. Only time will tell, I guess.

Now if something like Wright's mile-high skyscraper would have been built in NYC, that would have been fine. But with the current mayor, we'll be lucky to get a 300' tower and it will probably be located 50 miles from the city!

Rick

hey, the current Mayor is my boss. ;)

Originally posted by Linux23
hey, the current Mayor is my boss. ;)
his private company or public office?:)

TrekkerJ and CPTO, what OTA stations do you get. I finally hooked up my CM7777 here in Randolph and while I was hoping to pick up some new channels (PBS?), I still just receive 2.1,5.1,5.2. I know it's my crappy Terk antenna, but I just was wondering what you guys were pulling in and with what antenna?

Thanks,

Doug

I primarily use the Radio Shack double bowtie. I pull in those that you mentioned, and a spanish station (53). With a preamp, I can pick up WLIW-DT (22). With a VHF antenna stuck outside my window and after finding the sweet spot, I can also pull in a weak WPIX-DT (12). I use Cablevision, which naturally, gives me the ones that are easiest to pull in.

Originally posted by chingko
his private company or public office?:)

company. ;)

Since the antennaweb seems out of date, Who has the up to date list of OTA HD avail in NYC.

Specifically, can I watch angel in HD (FOX).

I'm in brooklyn, BedStuy, And I think a tall rooftop antenna could see the ESB. but a 4 story building is blocking the line of sight.

Angel is in HD on WB.

I'm experiencing wild fluctuations in signal strength lately.
I'm using a HiPix card connected to an old RS antenna and my signal strength for the last couple of nights has been fluctuating between 70 and 0. Any ideas as to what could be causing this and how it may be remedied?

Last night was OK for me but the previous two nights I had the same problem. I believe it was probably power fluctations due to the windy conditions or to problems with the broadcast power.

Same experience here. However, I've recently been calling WCBS master control about the fluctuating signal strength on Channel 56 and they always assure me that they're at full strength. The other strange thing is that I get a stronger, more steady signal on WNYW-DT than on WCBS-DT lately. :confused:

Originally posted by cpto


I think we'll read it here first when the local NYC DT stations start testing. If we're lucky, they'll monitor us to get feedback on how well it's working.

Rick


Reading this old post made me wonder....if ABC was still planning on going live in the beginning of November, wouldn't they be testing now? I mean that the 'beginning' of November is a few short weeks away, I would have thought that testing would probably begin a few weeks prior to launch.

Just wonderin'

Doug

Re: Cablevsion.

Here in Fairfield County, Connecicut, we had to wait until around May until we got the IO digital cable service. We had to wait until this month for HD cable and the only channels we seem to have right now are CBS and WNET. Would it have killed them to include HBO.

I too am annoyed that Cablevision is launching a Satellite venture and not not focusing on what they are supposed to do, provide a decent Cable Service.

Are there any that ABC-DT can lease or rent?

For example, I think that WXTV broadcasts digitally on Channel 40 from the ESB. I doubt, however, that they broadcast any HDTV content and that anyone really watches the digital broadcast. (I think it is a directional antenna so I cannot receive it where I am.) Would the FCC allow WABC to rent/borrow/lease etc. the WXTV digital transmitter until they could get their own operating? Might be a dumb question but if it is not being used/watched, it is kind of wasted.

I also noticed that WRNN from Kingston has started on DTV 48 and that TBN is also broadcasting digitally now as well (DTV 29). I doubt either will broadcast any HDTV and I doubt that anyone watches their digital broadcasts as well. It seems that the capacity could be be better used by NBC and ABC and that DTV viewers would be better served until ABC and NBC are up and running again

Slightly OT, but it's never too early to plan ahead.....who has the SuperBowl this year?

Hope that if it's fox they have the 720p ready for such a huge event!

CBS has the Superbowl. Expect HDTV!

George, any updates for us? Hear anything about those Conde Nast rumors? The abc45online website still lists early November as the date they "expect to resume digital broadcasting". Is this a pipe dream and a matter of them not updating their site after the ESB debacle, or do you think there is still a shot?

I haven't heard anything in the grapevine lately. Several sources had mentioned the ABC thing a while ago, but that is the last word. My social group of insiders haven't been out drinking lately or on the local 2m repeaters, so until we meet again I have no news.
I also have to make sure it is not considered sensitive info and available to the general public.
GT

I spoke to an engineer at WABC-DT who would only go as far as to say that they're "working on" their goal of going live on Channel 45 from the Conde Nast building sometime in November. He was very careful to be non-committal, mentioning that people on the AVS Forum tend to hear what they want to hear. He also mentioned that the signal would be at lower power. I'm not sure if that meant "low", like the almost non-existent signal from WPIX-DT, or just lowER than their pre-9/11 signal, which might still be strong enough to reach the burbs', as with WCBC-DT and WNYW-DT.

We shall see what we shall see.

For what it's worth: An article in the current issue of Crain's New York Business discusses the marketing of the Conde-Nast antenna facility and states that WABC-TV is installing a digital antenna there. I've already discarded my copy of the newspaper, but I don't recall that the article mentioned any schedule for the installation. I do have a full view of the top half of the Conde Nast antenna mast from my apartment, and there's certainly nothing up there that looks like an antenna to me.

IF it was still to be on channel 45, would it not still have to be relatively high power to reach anywhere. Isn't it true that the lower the channel, the less power you need (this being the reason wpix switched from 33 to 12 to do low power). As long as it reaches me 30 miles out. I can even pick up WPIX at times, so who knows. November's not far off, so as you say, we shall see.

I did a search on their website. You have to be a paid subscriber to get the full article. If anyone has access, i'd like to see the article. Anyway, this is the blurb that came up in the search results:

Published 10/20/2003 in Crain's New York Business
Times Sq. sending mixed signalsTelevision stations are giving a second look to a building that they had once rejected as too short for their backup transmitters. ABC-TV has signed a lease for antenna space atop 4 Times Square, the 52-story tower known as the Conde Nast building, which just...

Thats good to see. I went to Wired NY to see if I could find anything else without any luck. Perhaps since this confirms what we've heard elsewhere, then the info on early November is true. Of course ABC won't update the website until they know that there was no way to hit the promised time frame. In other words only expect abc to adjust the website if they can't do it by early November on November 10th.

http://www.wirednewyork.com/skyscrapers/4xsq/default.htm

Here is the building in Times sqr.

Here's a photo of the Conde-Nast antenna mast taken this morning from the wind-shaken webcam on the 102nd floor of the ESB. Anyone spot a digital TV broadcast antenna up there?

There are three wide band, flat panel, master antennas for digital and analog transmitters up at the top. The antennas just see RF and do not care how it is modulated. Maybe Times photographer Jeff Lyons can get some closeups of the panels..... Jeff.
GT

But George, have you heard anything about timeline. Do you think, from what you know, that ABC could be up in a matter of weeks at Conde? Is NBC still shooting for ESB now in March / April? You're our 'man in the know' and we'd all like to hear whatever you could tell us.

Thanks George,

Doug

I spotted the antenna for the first time as I drove north on the FDR this morning. It looks like a miniature version of the antenna that was on the WTC tower.

I'm two blocks away on the 29th floor and can see it from my window. They've made a lot of construction progress in the past few months. There's still a crane up there, but it looks just about ready to fire.

Here's another photo of the antenna-- I just took this looking out from my building just three blocks away...

http://homepage.mac.com/johnchu/antenna.jpg

This represents the future of my free OTA HDTV viewing in the NYC area...

While looking at the pretty pictures is nice, I'd much rather try to find out when they'll be flipping the switch on this puppy!!!! How can we find out if the abconline site is accurate with the early Nov. date??

Do you guys think that I will be able to get the ABC signal once it goes live in Ossining, Westchester county? I can now get CBS & FOX with my little RS indoor antenna.

The Metropolitan Television Alliance recently named WNBC’s Frank Comerford chairman of the coalition of New York City television stations working to build a new TV tower to replace the one destroyed atop the World Trade Center. Frank will oversee the negotiations and planning for the new Freedom Tower to be constructed on the WTC site
GT

Originally posted by George Thompson
The Metropolitan Television Alliance recently named WNBC’s Frank Comerford chairman of the coalition of New York City television stations working to build a new TV tower to replace the one destroyed atop the World Trade Center. Frank will oversee the negotiations and planning for the new Freedom Tower to be constructed on the WTC site
GT


Thanks George, but do you have anything substantive regarding the topic at hand.....ABC-dt return to the airways in the near future? Freedom tower won't be up for at least another 3 years, and I while it's nice they are planning, perhaps Frank Comerford could work on getting his signal back on NOW!

Is this good news? NBC doesn't seem to be making any effort to get there digital signal back up.

Was Enterprise in HD on upn in NYC ? I would imagine not because upn is a sub channel of fox but I figured I would ask.

Thanks

no. (appropriately answered by someone with the login of trekkerj).

Originally posted by Paperboy2003
Thanks George, but do you have anything substantive regarding the topic at hand.....ABC-dt return to the airways in the near future? Freedom tower won't be up for at least another 3 years, and I while it's nice they are planning, perhaps Frank Comerford could work on getting his signal back on NOW!

Let's give George a break! He gives it to us straight when he has the facts and is free to tell us. I, on the other hand, have information that they're putting a 500 ft. tower on Lady Liberty's torch. It is a great location, isn't it?:D

good call, give George a break, on the other hand, what information do you have about the Statue?

Originally posted by kcn823
Is this good news? NBC doesn't seem to be making any effort to get there digital signal back up.

It's obvious that NBC has no real interest in HD. They're programming shows this as well as their "interest" in getting HD back up in the N.Y. Metro area. I find it shocking that a major network like NBC is so apathetic when it comes to cutting edge technology. A broadcast leader they're not.

Originally posted by gmyron
good call, give George a break, on the other hand, what information do you have about the Statue?
As you can see from this photo, construction is almost complete. Maybe George knows which stations will use the new tower...:)

LOL, good one, you got me!! :p

Normally my WCBS-DT reception is very clean. But during this afternoon's Jets game it broke up continually.

Anyone know why this should happen from time to time?

im not at all an expert, but from what i learned from posing this question. alot has to do with the source, transmission and reception. some where along those lines cbs may have prob. i noticed this also thru my cable box and ota, rare for cbs. on the other hand tarzen looked great in hd, rare for the wb where i live.

Originally posted by MLM
Normally my WCBS-DT reception is very clean. But during this afternoon's Jets game it broke up continually.

Anyone know why this should happen from time to time?

My main--actually my only--concern is whether the reduced transmision power and reduced height will allow me to receive ABC here in Morris county.

Does anyone know where there may be picture profiles showing the expected reach of the new ABC-DT tower? The ones shown for CBS-DT three or four years ago were pretty accurate.

Thanks.

Rick

We're still not even sure if and when they will begin broadcasting. Nothing has been confirmed, and their website says they want to provide coverage to the entire area.

How far can the NYC digital channels can be picked up, as of now? Just wondering if they can reach 60 miles out of the city, as in the Princeton area and further south where their analogs can be picked up.

I was watching the encore presentation of Skin on FOX the other day, and for fun I thought I'd check to see how the DTV feed looked since our cable company's "digital" cable PQ is quite abominable. To my surprise, the show was shown in a full 16:9 aspect ratio and what I'm guessing was 480p, the standard for FOX right now. My Samsung T151 indicated an SD feed, as opposed to HD stuff on CBS and PBS which gets labeled as HD. Is FOX trying something out here, and should we be watching out for more of their shows to be shown in a tentative sort of HD? Whatever it was, the PQ was 10x better than what I am getting with my current cable provider, so I'm happy. ;)

Fox has been showing Boston Public like that for some time.

They did the world series in 16:9, but at less than 480p to my eyes. They are doing many Giants games the same way.

Cpto,

I was thinking if I cannot get ABC out of the city, I might switch to a CM 4228 and try to pull it out of PA. I would only hope that once it comes up it will be able to be received by Morris Cty. One would also think that there would be a better chance in winter because reception always seems to be better once the leaves are off the trees.

Doug

Originally posted by pepijn
I was watching the encore presentation of Skin on FOX the other day, and for fun I thought I'd check to see how the DTV feed looked since our cable company's "digital" cable PQ is quite abominable. To my surprise, the show was shown in a full 16:9 aspect ratio and what I'm guessing was 480p, the standard for FOX right now. My Samsung T151 indicated an SD feed, as opposed to HD stuff on CBS and PBS which gets labeled as HD. Is FOX trying something out here, and should we be watching out for more of their shows to be shown in a tentative sort of HD? Whatever it was, the PQ was 10x better than what I am getting with my current cable provider, so I'm happy. ;)
That's intriguing. I get Fox DTV via cable on both Time Warner and RCN. Believe both are 480p and widescreen (when WS is available). If you aren't referring to Cablevision, perhaps I'm misinterpreting something in my cable delivery. --John

Rick,
I would also have to think that if we're able to get Fox and Cbs consistently, we should be able to pull in ABC. While the tower is going to be lower, I would have to think that it will still make it out the 25-35 miles where we are. What point would it be for ABC to do it if they cannot cover say a 45 mile circle?!

Doug

People on other treads have sometimes commented on calling the control room, or engineers for a certain station when they had a question or when something was supposed to be in HD but wasn't. Does anyone know any names or phone numbers of people at ABC. I have no problem taking the time to give a call to see if early November is still a possibility. As I mentioned in a previous post, if early November was still a possibility, one would think that we would have picked up on some of the testing that would have to be done. Post a number or name and I'll be happy to place a call and report back to everyone my findings. If no one knows of a name then tell me the 'title' of a person I should ask for and I'll go hunting.

Just a thought....

Doug

ABC7 Main Station Number
212.456.1000

from the 7online web site. I assume you could call and get transferred. IF you call, let us know if they tell you anything useful.

They just told me to start watching for test paterns if not programming from WABC-DT on or before November 1st. They finally got fed up with CBS and ESB for putting up too many hurtles to jump over. 4 Times Square also made a sweetheart deal. If CBS hadn't played hard ball, (ESB is not totally innocent), maybe all the stations would be on by now......
Nice going guys.

IS THIS TRUE!?!?

Can anyone confirm that the New York ABC control room said to start watching for a signal starting Nov 1st.

Not that I don't trust you, but this would be the best news I have heard since WPIX came on-line this past spring.

MNF is HD next month..................That's cool!

Joe

Originally posted by Megahurts
They just told me to start watching for test paterns if not programming from WABC-DT on or before November 1st. They finally got fed up with CBS and ESB for putting up too many hurtles to jump over. 4 Times Square also made a sweetheart deal. If CBS hadn't played hard ball, (ESB is not totally innocent), maybe all the stations would be on by now......
Nice going guys.

You mean, you just picked up the phone and asked? And they answered and told you all that? Who would have thought?! And poor George Thompson spends all that money on drinks for his contacts ;) . Nice job, Megahurts.

Please Megahurts, tell us you're not kidding.

Gee, that seems to confirm what I heard through the grapevine too..... (Target Date)
Nice job Megahurts.
( I don't buy all those rounds, I receive them too!)
I think I also heard that the GM at WCBS came from their major competitor in the market. Could that mean that he knew the financial status of that station and put the screws to them (and everyone else)?
GT

That is the confirmation I needed!!!!

MNF in HD here I come

Joe

Thanks for calling Mega.....I'm glad I spurred you to action!

:-)

Doug

OF course the buzzkill will be that once it starts up I won't be able to receive it without erecting a 300 foot tower off of my roof!

I guess I'll have a feeling in less than a week!

Doug

If any one gets any info on the signal strength and channel (I assume it's still 45?), please post that too. I also hope Morris county isn't too far.

As, it goes without saying, as soon as someone notices something on ABC-DT, post it here!!!

looks like I am in the Conn. DMA forever now!!! I am at 65 miles Moriches area, does anyone think I can get WABC-DT NYC form here?

I still have no WB, and am waiting on WCTX to do HD. Was hoping I could put the rotor to rest.

OMG, this is great news. The only problem I have is that I only have 1 PC for HDTV recording, so i'm gonna have to come up with something.

A well-placed source in WABC engineering told me that the initial power will be "just a few decibels lower" than that of WCBS-DT and WNYW-DT, and that signal strength will be raised further later on.
I also asked about the likelihood of getting an adequate signal in northern Westchester, to which he replied that it shouldn't be a problem -- notwithstanding possible terrain and foliage issues. WABC-DT will remain on Channel 45, with the possibility that weak tuners might have a problem with the adjacent Fox/UPN stations on Channel 44. But, anyway, it's looking good for high def' Monday Night Football next Monday in the great land of Metro NYC!
Now, we've just got to wait for WNBC to get its act together. Of the major commercial broadcast networks, they'll be the only ones still out in the digital cold.

Yeah, why did they pick 45, with 44 right next to it? Should be interesting, I look forward to trying my Sammy T151 on ch 45 in the near future.

" it's looking good for high def' Monday Night Football next Monday in the great land of Metro NYC!"

Just be careful with your expectations. If they start testing on the first, it's not a sure thing that you'll be watching TV by the third. Would be nice, and time will tell.

Now what do we do about NBC.....probably gonna have to wait a while for that one!

Glad to hear that ABC is finally coming to fruition!

Doug

It will be so much easier to record hd now that i don't have to keep moving my antenna everytime I want to record abc. I have been rotating my antenna to Connecticut for abc, via channelmaster rotor.

Everytime I would move it I would forget to move it back, and then lose my csi recordings on cbs.

Anyway this helps me only a little since I watch NBC 90% of the time, ER, thirdwatch, friends, whoopi, will and grace. I don't really care for Raymond on ABC, and since I lost my Giants season tickets, I have not really watched too much football.


dave

Now why does it sound like GT was holding out on us. I mean I understand the need to keep certain info confidential, but if MEGA-wattshisname can simply make one call and get a straight answer from the source, why couldn't GT let us know what he heard. In this case, I don't see what the big secret was.

Has anyone gotten a firm date as to when the testing at least will start ?

Scott

Originally posted by fourthstooge
Now why does it sound like GT was holding out on us. I mean I understand the need to keep certain info confidential, but if MEGA-wattshisname can simply make one call and get a straight answer from the source, why couldn't GT let us know what he heard. In this case, I don't see what the big secret was.

I would say give the guy a break! From what I have read he's already gotten himself into a bind by posting inside information, so I don't blame him for not posting something he hears through the grapevine. After all, a lot of the time this stuff doesn't pan out anyway. As for ABC, I'll believe it when I see it.

There are no firm dates for WABC-DT and WABC has not provided any updated information other than that blurb on the website which is nothing more than a place holder.

As for Mr. Thompson and others that post to this forum that work in the industry some of their information (unless published) is confidential and probably should not be shared with the public unless their employers and other broadcasters do not find issue with relaying such info.

So it is not his fault if he can not relay any info other than what is common knowledge to industry insiders. I feel a little gratitude (not veil criticism) is due to Mr. Thompson and others in the industry who decide to take time out of their busy day to update folks on the inner workings of the New York City area digital debacle.

Just wanted to say I appreciate the efforts of George Thompson.

This has been a difficult situation due to 9/11, and stations finding it difficult to work together to accommodate the greater good of the viewers.

Now, if WB 11 can just move back to their main channel, the NYC state of DT would be better than Philly.

Go figure!

Originally posted by Chriš
I would say give the guy a break! From what I have read he's already gotten himself into a bind by posting inside information, so I don't blame him for not posting something he hears through the grapevine. After all, a lot of the time this stuff doesn't pan out anyway. As for ABC, I'll believe it when I see it.

So, I'm not sure I follow. . . .why exactly does everyone in this forum rely on George for "inside information" if he's reluctant to give it?

Maybe I just don't have the understanding and patience for the bulls--t politics, but I still don't see what the big secret is - - - even if it doesn't pan out, so what? All he has to do is qualify it with a disclaimer.

I don't mean to beat the guy over the head, but looking back over this thread, he was so conspicuously quiet after being asked more than once about the status of the new antenna. It's kinda cold to totally ignore someone who is asking you a direct question, George.

Originally posted by Chriš
I would say give the guy a break! From what I have read he's already gotten himself into a bind by posting inside information, so I don't blame him for not posting something he hears through the grapevine. After all, a lot of the time this stuff doesn't pan out anyway. As for ABC, I'll believe it when I see it.

So, I'm not sure I follow. . . .why exactly does everyone in this forum rely on George for "inside information" if he's reluctant to give it?

Maybe I just don't have the understanding and patience for the bulls--t politics, but I still don't see what the big secret is - - - even if it doesn't pan out, so what? All he has to do is qualify it with a disclaimer.

I don't mean to beat the guy over the head, but looking back over this thread, he was so conspicuously quiet after being asked more than once about the status of the new antenna. It's kinda cold to totally ignore someone who is asking you a direct question, George.

sorry for the double post

Originally posted by fourthstooge
So, I'm not sure I follow. . . .why exactly does everyone in this forum rely on George for "inside information" if he's reluctant to give it?


Because, for a couple of years now, George has given us accurate and timely updates about the progress of digital TV in NYC. There have been a few others that have added 'inside' info to the forum, but no one has been as consistant and correct.
I am sure he had his reasons to be a little hesistant with this story, but he confirmed it pretty quickly.
Not that George needs defending, but I thought you should know why we rely on him.


Joe

OK, if you say so.

Hey guys. I was psyched to discover this thread. I am in East Islip Long Island. 41 miles from ESB. I have a RS 15-2160 UHF only antenna. I presently get CBS and FOX at 69% on my Samsung TS-160. I do not get WPIX at all.

I have 2 questions:

1) Is there any info on when WPIX will ramp up signal or go back to there uhf channel? I imagine i could get them with my uhf only antenna if they simply up the juice, but i would be happier if they went back to uhf also.

2) ABC, CBS, and FOX are listed as yellows for me on antennaweb. Since I am getting FOX and CBS beautifully, is it safe to assume that i will get abc too? I guess i will find out soon enough, but i am running out of time to return my antenna and am trying to figure out if i should sit tight or go larger.

antneye

Maybe you should consider switching to the huge vhf/uhf antenna from radio shack. it has a good uhf antenna on it and you should still be able to pull cbs and fox. I don't rember the model number, but it is 13' long.

Abc is anybodys guess right now. As of last night it still was not on.

dave

Dave,

I am trying to avoid having that monster antenna on my roof. There is a larger UHF only that I can go to which is still nowhere near as big as the RatShack UHF/VHF antenna. I want my Hd, but as unobtrusively as possible. I get excellent signal on what I have for CBS and FOX. I am not going to put a monster on my roof just to get WPIX which should eventually come in on what i have when they are at full power. If ABC doesn't fly, then I have to make a change, but not just for WPIX.

I checked my receipt and my antenna was purchased on 10/18/03.....30 days from then is 11/17/03. I hope they are running by then so i can make the right decision.

antneye- I'm about 40 miles out in CT and using the same RS antenna. I can't get WPIX either. It's got to be a power issue. I can get ABC out of New Haven (VHF channel 11) just fine, and it's about 25 miles away. In fact it comes in strong enough that I can keep the antenna pointed towards the ESB for CBS and FOX, and still get no dropouts on ABC. I'm sure if WPIX just cranked up the juice you would receive it fine.

I am about 30 miles from the ESB and get WPIX with a signal strength in the low 60s with my RCA DTC-100.

I have a roof mounted, Radio Shack UHF/VHF antenna with Radio Shack amplifier.

Another 10 miles might be a deal breaker, but you could try a VHF antenna with an amplifier.


Joe

In an effort to quell the rampant speculation concerning the situation with WABC I am in the process of speaking with a couple of individuals at the network and station who would know one way or the other what’s going on.

If there is something that is worth reporting and that can be reported I will post it immediately. Please do not send me notes every other day asking for info as soon as I hear something I will post it.

Originally posted by wward
In an effort to quell the rampant speculation concerning the situation with WABC I am in the process of speaking with a couple of individuals at the network and station who would know one way or the other what’s going on.

If there is something that is worth reporting and that can be reported I will post it immediately. Please do not send me notes every other day asking for info as soon as I hear something I will post it.

The information I conveyed yesterday came from a very senior person in engineering at WABC. Short of an exact time of day that digital broadcasting will commence, I'm not sure how much more information you're going to get out of them.

s2silber

First off my statement was not a direct attack on you or anyone else, I may come back with exactly what you said or maybe more I thought the point of this thread was to report as much factual information as possible.

The more folks that can present factual information the better at least in my opinion.

I think the great philosopher Rodney King said it the best.....

"can't we all just get along?!"

Originally posted by s2silber
Short of an exact time of day that digital broadcasting will commence,
it would be cool even if it's just approximate time to start the broadcast test. i'm tired of climbing up the attic and rotating between philly and ny. plus abc philly is doing multicasting...sucks.

As per my previous post, they could go online as soon as this Saturday. In any case, two different engineers I've spoken to at WABC were cautiously confident about being on air by MNF.

Are you ready for some FOOTBALL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Check out the story on fybush.com about 4 Times Square. Upon touring the site last week Scott says he viewed the WABC DT equipment being assembled for a 11/1 lauch date Also he said the WFUT 53.1 is transmitting from that location!! So anyone who wonders if they will get 7.1 can try 53.1 and if they get that they are sure to recieve WABC-DT Ch 45. My only question is 53.1 on from the 385 foot tower yet??or the temp antenna,either way I get it fine here on Staten Island.

What the heck is WFUT?

Never mind. I just found out it's Telefutura, a spanish network, and I get it loud and clear! I guess I'm set for WABC. :D

i am seeing wfut's analog signal (68), but not their digital....and they come from same spot. Is it possible that the Digital is a low power signal? I'm gonna be pissed if i dont get abc

I do not get 53 here in Westchester. I think it is low power. According to the FCC web site, WFUT has a STA to operate at 3.5KW but I am not sure how accurate that is or even what it means. All I know is that it registers anywhere from 10 to 20 on my Hughes E86 signal meter and I get no picture. I am a little more than 20 miles north of mid town. I do get their 68 analog station though.

After WABC-DT is up and running and the people are thanked does someone want to start a "WPIX-DT needs to be UHF" thread?

I though there VHF implementation was temperary and on some type of shared antenna or something.

Does anyone know what there turnover dates are or if they have dates? I have sent emails from there website from there "If you are receiving our HD signal post your feedback" http://wb11.trb.com/about/station/wpix-dtvhome.htmlstory#dataform

I am posting that I can't get it...

I don't know about you but I bought a UHF antenna because it was suggested and smaller for better distance than the combo's. I only want to receive HD OTA everything else comes via Directv.

Originally posted by sbonaparte
After WABC-DT is up and running and the people are thanked does someone want to start a "WPIX-DT needs to be UHF" thread?
Don't be too hard on WPIX. They should be commended for even putting up a temporary fix while waiting for a better, long term, "temporary fix". ;)

I though there VHF implementation was temperary and on some type of shared antenna or something.
It is temporary.
I believe they are supposed to be part of the combiner that is being installed in the ESB.
The fact that WPIX, a small, local station, was broadcasting a digital signal months before WABC and WNBC (maybe years for WNBC?) should not be forgotten. Of course, if you are out of there range, it doesn't help much. BUT, as least you know they are trying.
If you want to be pro-active, how about a nice letter to WPIX and a more aggressive approach to WNBC.
WNBC continues to give the impression they could care less if we ever get a OTA digital signal in NYC!!:mad:

Joe

When is ABC 7 dtv up on the air?

The 'confirmed rumor' is by Nov 1st.

Joe

Originally posted by sbonaparte
After WABC-DT is up and running and the people are thanked does someone want to start a "WPIX-DT needs to be UHF" thread?

I though there VHF implementation was temperary and on some type of shared antenna or something.

Does anyone know what there turnover dates are or if they have dates? I have sent emails from there website from there "If you are receiving our HD signal post your feedback" http://wb11.trb.com/about/station/wpix-dtvhome.htmlstory#dataform

I am posting that I can't get it...

I don't know about you but I bought a UHF antenna because it was suggested and smaller for better distance than the combo's. I only want to receive HD OTA everything else comes via Directv.

I took some time to write a nice little letter on that submission form...but neglected to put my phone # in....so when I hit the send button the next page said to hit the back button and enter a phone #....so I go BACK to enter a phone # in and my WHOLE form is blank!!! :mad:

What a waste of time.....so the moral of the story is fill in every field if you plan on leaving a little letter in the comments section....or you'll probably lose the message you typed :eek:

I checked to see if I could get 53-1 and it was coming in very low around 12-15 percent. I hope ABC-DT comes in higher than that. The wait is killing me.

joe are you talking to me?

I am in Staten Island with direct line of site to the ESB. I get WPIX in low 60's with ocassional dropouts. I get 100 on WCBS and WNYW. I'm sure if WPIX goes to high power that would top out at 100 as well. Hope the ABC signal from the Conde Naste building does as well.

While I don't know how accurate the link below is, I'm concerned that ABC might not reach that far out. The link, as you can see, show's cbs-dt @ 349 Kw, Fox @ 246Kw and ABC (once again this could just be a projection) @ 182 Kw. I get CBS and Fox at around 85-90 (with CM 7777 preamp) but I don't know if 182 (if true) will be enough to reach out around 30-35 miles from the City. Guess we'll all know soon enough!

Doug

http://www.tvradioworld.com/region1/ny/tv_information.asp?m=new

Another thread just posted says that there is now a signal on ch 45. Can anyone else confirm?

Wabc-dt Is On The Air!
IT IS NOW 12:42 PM, THURSDAY, 10/30/03

mY RCA DTC100 IS DETECTING A DIGITAL SIGNAL ON CHANNEL 45, WITH A STRENGTH OF 0


LET'S WAIT AND SEE.

1:12 P.M., signal is completely gone,

LET'S WAIT AND SEE

Unfortunately nothing out here on Long Island. I get very strong signals on CBS and Fox, but absolutely nothing to lock on to with ABC. Looks like I'll still be using my VHF antenna for ABC out of New Haven. Too bad.

The previous post already said the signal is gone, so don't worry if you want get any signal at the moment. Can you get ch 53? If so, it's much lower power than ch 45 should be, so that should be a better indication.

Originally posted by harican
Wabc-dt Is On The Air!
IT IS NOW 12:42 PM, THURSDAY, 10/30/03

mY RCA DTC100 IS DETECTING A DIGITAL SIGNAL ON CHANNEL 45, WITH A STRENGTH OF 0


LET'S WAIT AND SEE.

1:12 P.M., signal is completely gone,

LET'S WAIT AND SEE


can anyone else confirm this???

Originally posted by Paperboy2003
While I don't know how accurate the link below is, I'm concerned that ABC might not reach that far out.

I wonder if the information from that link is from a couple of years ago. Recall that in 2001, all the NYC stations (2,4,5,7,9,11,13) were transmitting in digital. This link even shows NBC-DT at 178 kW and they're not even up so is this projected or old info? I think it's old info.

Boy, those were the days. I was able to get all these 7 stations from Morris County with my double bowtie. First HD broadcast from ABC-45 was NYPD Blue, Jan 2001. I think NBC-28 was either Leno or Crossing Jordan. And rodmanbra was a famous entity here...heheh.

I hope so, im waiting and watching 10 miles in s bklyn. getting nadda on 45,53,7. god speed

john

Originally posted by harican
Wabc-dt Is On The Air!
IT IS NOW 12:42 PM, THURSDAY, 10/30/03

mY RCA DTC100 IS DETECTING A DIGITAL SIGNAL ON CHANNEL 45, WITH A STRENGTH OF 0


LET'S WAIT AND SEE.

1:12 P.M., signal is completely gone,

LET'S WAIT AND SEE

Really? I get 53 from 30+ miles out in Morris County. I wonder if they temporarily took it down to do some work on the facilities there?

Trekkerj, you get 53? I don't in Randolph. What channel is 53 mapped to? I looked around and could not find it. I wonder if I need to do a re-scan to remap things and find any 'new' signals?!

Doug

I'm in Morris Plains. I am using the radio shack doublebowtie. I think it's 53-1. It's not the strongest, but usually I can get it by tuning to 53 and moving the antenna around. Usually I can pull it in without a problem, but sometimes I can only get it if I have my preamp hooked up and the antenna closer to the window.

I am not an antenna expert, but i did some research on chanel 53 and ran across an article stating that they their digital transmission can serve their customers in NJ and westchester. Is it possible that their transmitter is directional and therefore those of us on the long island side wouldnt see it?

i am 41 miles away (East Islip,NY). CBS & fox come in at 69% on samsung TS-160. I get no drops.....all this with a 15-2160 UHF only Rat Shack antenna. I better see ABC or im gonna be mighty pissed!

Has WPIX's signal changed since August? I was able to get it 20 miles out on Long Island on channel 11-1 and I would also get a picture on 70-1 (I think). Then in September I turned my antenna towards New Haven to try and get ABC. Today in anticipation of ABC-DT NY coming on, I turned my antenna back towards NYC but don't get any signal from WPIX. I also changed my antenna from a channel master to a RS 190. Any thoughts?

Here on Staten Island it is on right now!!! Signal strength here withHD200 is full scale and in full DD5.1!!!Looks Great!!!Antenna is UHF beam on roof towards NYC....

I'm getting ABC-DT here in Freeport, Long Island. Signal 93-100. All I can say is YES !!!!

Just spoke to someone in WABC engineering. He said they are on right now in testing mode and -- if all goes well -- they'll remain on!

Let's hear some more reports from Metro New York TV Land about who is and isn't getting reception.

I have a feeling alot of people in the NY area are going to be watching Threat Matrix tonight.

MY CM4228 with CM7775 pre-amp (via A Hughes E-86) is facing PHILLY and picking up ABC 45-1 with a signal strength of 77-83! Dropout Free!

Signal must be pretty strong then ?!?!?!:eek:

Looks great here in brooklyn :)

Okay. Let's here from some foks in some of the more distant reaches of the NYC metro area.

you guys are making me want to run home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Its 5:30 and I got another half hour of work. GRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!

(you can see I am working real hard)

dave

Even though they are sharing the same site at Conde Naste building I find -45.1 much stronger than 53.1 FUT !! So people testing may get 45.1 and not 53.1,as a matter of fact it is really barreling in here on Staten Island as good as or better than CBS and Fox !!!!

Originally posted by kcn823
Has WPIX's signal changed since August? ......... Any thoughts?

What receiver do you have?
I remember having a problem this summer with not being able to tune WPIX. I had the Off-Air feature disabled. It seems the RCA DTC-100 did not see WPIX with this setting. Once I enabled it I got WPIX on 11 & 75.

Joe

Originally posted by DAVE2
you guys are making me want to run home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Its 5:30 and I got another half hour of work. GRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!

(you can see I am working real hard)

dave
See you on the unemployment line....though not during HD hours!

:D

I GOT IT BABY, WABC-DT 45 HERE IN S. BROOKLYN N.Y. yeah baby. i cant beleive it!! i had to shout. thanks

john

Cant beleive im pointed at philly and ABC is booming in .

Joecraw, I have a toshiba 3000. I don't watch much on WPIX, just curious if something changed from late summer to now.

wabc-dt AS I CAN SEE IT IS BROADCASTING 3 CHANNELS 7.01, 7.02 & 45 7.02 IS A sd CH.

john

Getting it in Morris County!!!

I'm getting ABC-DT audio from my front left and right speakers, but nothing from the center. Anyone else?

Oh man O'manashevitz, shes locked in and looking great, even the 7.02 sd 4x3 sub ch looks great, better than wor tv. its a beautiful thing and its MOTHER F'IN FREE!!!

john

So here's a question. If my tv supports 720p (and then converts it to 1080i), will I get a better picture with my STB on 720p or 1080i? It seems MUCH darker on 720p.

Also, what's with the 7-2 subchannel, is that just standard-def? Looks like 7-1 has the 5.1 flag on, but not 7-2, kind of like WPIX.

Threat Matrix it is!

Originally posted by trekkerj
So here's a question. If my tv supports 720p (and then converts it to 1080i), will I get a better picture with my STB on 720p or 1080i? It seems MUCH darker on 720p.

Also, what's with the 7-2 subchannel, is that just standard-def? Looks like 7-1 has the 5.1 flag on, but not 7-2, kind of like WPIX.

Threat Matrix it is!

WPVI-DT out of Philly (Channels 6-1 and 6-2 and 6-3) mulitcasts in HD and SD (6-1 is HD and 6-2 is stretched SD that supposedly goes to the cable company for their feed) and 6-3 is the radar channel---just started it a few days ago. There's a little back and forth going recently on the Philly thread about the evils of eating up the MBPS of the HD feed with a SD feed on 6-2 and a radar channel on 6-3.

I'm just happy that WABC has taken the initiative to get back online. I wish I could say the same for WNBC-DT :mad:

You'd think there would be more pressure on them now. They're the only big network not transmitting digitally in the #1 market in the country....There's plenty of space in 4TS for WNBC. I would also be happy if WPIX and WWOR moved over there so I could lock in better on WPIX and also get some HD out of WWOR. But I am thrilled to see 7-1 on my receiver, can't wait to see the HD quality (assuming they are going to pass HD tonight).

I am receiving WABC 45.1 at 100% in Bucks County Pennsylvania. I am about 64 miles away, near New Hope. I have a 4 bay bowtie on the roof and I am using the MyHD tuner card to receive.

I get 45.1 at a higher level than Fox (44.1) and about the same as WCBS (56.1).

Rob

It's the same story in north New Jersey. ABC is stronger than FOX and the same as CBS. I use CM 4-bay 3021 without a pre-amp and Zenith dtv1080.
Rob.

i only got 25% signal out of ABC 7.1..my receiver is zenith 520...antenna on top of 6 floor building in north bronx,(near bronx zoo)...cbs and fox come in strong at 85%...i don't use a pream for antenna...is it the reason? If so, what kind of pream i can get from rat shack and if i have to turn the antenna to a new direction?

Looking great here in North Jersey as well. Signal quality is mostly around 96%, but it drops here and there without killing the picture. Maybe they're tweaking or perhaps my RS VHF/UHF antenna is a little off direction.

Congrats to WABC:)

WPIX is always strong here by the way. Depends on location because 125 watts isn't much between two other channels.

strong signal 7.1 & 7.2 (sony hd200) in saddle brook nj !!!

I AM GETTING NOTHING!!

Is anyone further east on LI than Freeport getting WABC-DT??

I am in Plainview (Nassau/Suffolk border) and I am getting NOTHING!

How could PA be getting a signal and not central LI?
Is the Conde Naste antenna pointed toward NJ??

Joe

JoeCraw, are you getting WPIX in Plainview?

Here in mid westchester I am getting a signal that jumps around from 0 to 20 on my Hughes E86. Not enough to lock on. My equipment must be hooked up right since both CBS and Fox are 100 on the signal meter.

Originally posted by kcn823
JoeCraw, are you getting WPIX in Plainview?

Yes.

Joe

Strong signal here in Clifton. Volume is low. What's wrong with them. Just kidding, I will give them a few days to work out the kinks.

are you guys supposed to point the antenna to a new direction since cbs on ESB and WABC-Dt on time square? i got very strong signal on cbs and fox but only 20% on ABC...i'm in the bronx

Here in Westfield NJ I am getting 7.1 and 7.2 with a $12 RCA indoor antenna.

In Norwalk CT (about 40 miles out), getting a signal around 30-35, has trouble locking on. CBS is at 76, FOX is at 70. Are they testing at fullpower? Luckily this far east we can pick up ABC out of New Haven CT.

Using:
Radio Shack outdoor UHF
ChannelMaster 7777 amp
RCA DTC-100 STB

FWIW- Thank You ABC for taking the initiative and getting on air!

Originally posted by JoeCraw
I AM GETTING NOTHING!!

Is anyone further east on LI than Freeport getting WABC-DT??

I am in Plainview (Nassau/Suffolk border) and I am getting NOTHING!

How could PA be getting a signal and not central LI?
Is the Conde Naste antenna pointed toward NJ??

Joe

Selden, Exit 62 off of the LIE. Getting 75% signal, same as CBS and FOX. 7.1 and 7.2 coming in without breakups!

Now I can use my CT antenna to get NBC instead of ABC!

WOOO HOOO

I'm getting a BOOMING signal now on WABC DT here in Plainview! It's coming in stronger than CBS, in fact the signal meter on my HD200 is pinned. However, I get nothing on Channel 53. The strange thing about WABC is I'm getting only 7.2 and no 7.1. But 7.2 seems to be the regular WABC programming. Are you guys still getting 2 channels (7.1 & 7.2)?

Originally posted by seldenpat
!

Now I can use my CT antenna to get NBC instead of ABC!



Pat, what NBC are you trying to get in CT?

Looking great in Randolph as well...so much for the signal strength concerns!

Doug

76% here in Fair Haven NJ on the Jersey Shore.
Sipowitz in HD!

hef

yes 7.01 & 02 here. 7.02 is indicated as SD 4X3 i guess sub ch and the 7.01 indicates hd. it looks real strong and impresive to me, i cant wait for the 1st time to view a native 720 sing. on a 1080 set.

john

Originally posted by Ken Ross
I'm getting a BOOMING signal now on WABC DT here in Plainview! It's coming in stronger than CBS, in fact the signal meter on my HD200 is pinned. However, I get nothing on Channel 53. The strange thing about WABC is I'm getting only 7.2 and no 7.1. But 7.2 seems to be the regular WABC programming. Are you guys still getting 2 channels (7.1 & 7.2)?

Im getting a great signal here in Jericho, LI (approx 35 miles out). Getting both 7.01 WABC-HD and 7.02 WABC-SD.

Originally posted by Ken Ross
Pat, what NBC are you trying to get in CT?

WVIT out of New Britian is about 20mi further than WTHN and is scheduled for 12/15. I still can't get WB or UPN (real UPN), so maybe I'll play around with WCTX out of New Haven, or WTXX out of Waterbury.

Ken,

You have any other recommendations? You think I have a shot for Philly going straight across the Ocean?

The way I'm set up right now is a CM4228 pointed to NYC going into a CM7777 Preamp, and a RS190 going into the VHF-only input of the preamp. Obviously I'd have to disconnect from the preamp to get the UHF stations from CT, (or buy another one).

you guys...I NEED HELP....i just disconnect my rooftop antenna and use my Silver sensor to check...to my surprise, the signal on WABC-DT 7.1 come on at 70%, my receiver show it at 720p and sound at 5.1 channel..it looks really good.
Please tell me what wrong that i can't get it with the rooftop antenna even i can pull in cbs and fox at 80%...
1. Is it because the antenna point at the wrong direction? i noticed i pointed Silver sensor at different direction than i do for CBS
2. Do i need a preamp?

Well Im getting 7-1 and 7-2 here in union county NJ. Im just using a silver sensor, but I can't find a good position to get both ABC, CBS and FOX at the same time, guess I'll have to keep playing. One interesting thing though, twice now switching from 7-1 to 7-2 has reset my STB. Its a samsung SIR-T165. Anyone have any idea what might cause this? Well for now I just deleted 7-2 since its just the same as 7-1 but it sure is curious. Also do you guys think that adding a pre amp would help boost my signal, or might it make things worse?

Brian E,

Not sure if this is just a coincidence, but after I was checking 7-1 and 7-2, I received a message that my access card had expired. I had to call directv, they had me reset my box. It did not help. I had a spare P4 card which I had to activate. Now I am back in business. Weird.

Originally posted by Chriš
In Norwalk CT (about 40 miles out), getting a signal around 30-35, has trouble locking on. CBS is at 76, FOX is at 70. Are they testing at fullpower?

Whoa- did they up the juice recently? Now I'm in the high 40's here and locked, no dropouts in the last 10 minutes.

I'm getting WABC-DT 7.1 and 7.2 in Westbury LI with no problems.

However I'm a little puzzled. The PSIP for 7.1 says "HDTV Standard" and the image is 4x3 with black sidebars??? The PSIP for 7.2 says "SD 4x3" and the image is 16x9 ????

Are they stretching or zooming the SD image??? Do they have the signals reversed??? The 7.2 image was grainy but 16x9.

Did anyone else notice this???

It's great to have them back on the air.

One complaint. The double "7 WABC" bright white logo has got to be changed!!!! Take it out or at the very least make it a watermark (transparent)

Whoever spoke to the ABC technicians should mention the logo issue.

Welcome back ABC

Anybody out there with a Sony HD200? The reason I ask is that I AM getting 7.1 but it's not mapping to the guide and therefore is only accessible by directly entering 7.1. Now 7.2 shows in the guide and is the channel that's available when you do a "channel up/down" selection but not 7.1. I'm wondering if there's something not quite right with the PSIP data or perhaps some incompatibility with the Sony and WABC's data at this point.

Pat, I'm not sure what kind of shot you'd have for Philly, but if you've got a rotor it's sure worth a try. My tuner is pausing now for channel 53, but not locking in. So it sees something but it just can't quite capture it yet.

BTW, interestingly, comparing ABC DT out of Ct with ABC DT out of N.Y., the N.Y. stretch station (7.2) is sharper but with less contrast than the stretch 8.1 out of New Haven. It will be interesting to see if there's any difference in the HD. It will also be nice to watch ABC DT without any dropouts!!!!

I'm getting it loud and clear here in the Brooklyn-Queens border. It's coming in with about the same signal strenght as WCBS-DT and WNYW-DT. It's hard to tell the exact signal strenght since the Samsung 165 doesn't have a number reader but a progress bar.

My Samsung 165 also reboots when switching from 7-1 to 7-2. I deleted 7-2 to avoid problems.

Another pleasant surprise is that the channel scan also picked up WLIW-DT on channel 21-2 and 21-2. I had no idea I could receive these. Excellent!

OK, quick update.

I pointed my antenna further north and I am now getting WABC-DT!!
It is only hitting a 50 on my RCA, with CBS and FOX upper 80s, low 90s.

Ken,

What antenna are you using to pull in CBS, FOX and ABC so well?
Did you adjust it in any way?

Joe

Im up here in the North bronx right below yonkers. I have a Channel master 4 bowtie up in my attic, I have a Hughes E-86. I get CBS and FOX at 100% but I am only receiving ABC (45) at Zero to 3%. The signal wont lock...I also am running a Radio Shack UHF/VHF amplifier ?? PLEASEEEE HELPPPPPPPPP. I want to Join the PARTY!!!

Joe, it's a Channel Master hi gain UHF antenna on a rotor (I'm not sure of the model #, but it's a big boy). I didn't turn it at all since it was aimed at the ESB and I thought the spread of the signal by the time it got here would be O.K. WABC DT is actually stronger than CBS, which is already very strong.

Originally posted by Ken Ross
Anybody out there with a Sony HD200? The reason I ask is that I AM getting 7.1 but it's not mapping to the guide and therefore is only accessible by directly entering 7.1. Now 7.2 shows in the guide and is the channel that's available when you do a "channel up/down" selection but not 7.1. I'm wondering if there's something not quite right with the PSIP data or perhaps some incompatibility with the Sony and WABC's data at this point.

Pat, I'm not sure what kind of shot you'd have for Philly, but if you've got a rotor it's sure worth a try. My tuner is pausing now for channel 53, but not locking in. So it sees something but it just can't quite capture it yet.

BTW, interestingly, comparing ABC DT out of Ct with ABC DT out of N.Y., the N.Y. stretch station (7.2) is sharper but with less contrast than the stretch 8.1 out of New Haven. It will be interesting to see if there's any difference in the HD. It will also be nice to watch ABC DT without any dropouts!!!!

Ken,

I have the HD200 and it's mapping both 7.1 and 7.2. Found them right away, in fact. Maybe a quick reset will do the trick?

I agree that NY stretch looks better. I'll be flipping tonight on Threat Matrix and let you know my thoughts.

bs77, I would go get a Silver Sensor antenna and try that. Easier to fool around with, and if it doesn't help, you can easily return it. I've got an indoor antenna 35 miles away and get it no problem.

Welcome back!!!!

Getting high 80s way out here, only need WPIX and a real UPN can care less for NBC. Can not even remember any NBC shows it has been so long.

I am a little further north than you (by the Tappan Zee) and have exactly the same problem you do: 100% on Fox and CBS but 0 to 10% on ABC. I wonder if it has anything to do with the fact we are north of NYC. Everyone else that is getting a good signal seems to be either E, W, and S of NYC. I find it hard to belive that I have to re point my antenna if I already get CBS and FOX without a problem. By the way, I also have an E86 and a channel master 4 bow tie antenna.

Originally posted by bs77
Im up here in the North bronx right below yonkers. I have a Channel master 4 bowtie up in my attic, I have a Hughes E-86. I get CBS and FOX at 100% but I am only receiving ABC (45) at Zero to 3%. The signal wont lock...I also am running a Radio Shack UHF/VHF amplifier ?? PLEASEEEE HELPPPPPPPPP. I want to Join the PARTY!!!
Hi BS77..i'm in north bronx too (fordham near Bronx zoo), getting cbs and fox no problem at 80%...i got only 20% out of ABC...however, using the Silver sensor pull ABC in at 80% no problem.
My receiver is zenith 520. I think i need to get a preamp or i have to point my rooftop antenna to a different direction.
If you want to get the Silver sensor, I can leave it to you. I bought it from Best buy last week.

Originally posted by BuzaidC
I am a little further north than you (by the Tappan Zee) and have exactly the same problem you do: 100% on Fox and CBS but 0 to 10% on ABC. I wonder if it has anything to do with the fact we are north of NYC. Everyone else that is getting a good signal seems to be either E, W, and S of NYC. I find it hard to belive that I have to re point my antenna if I already get CBS and FOX without a problem. By the way, I also have an E86 and a channel master 4 bow tie antenna.

BuzaidC, I just hooked up my portable radio shack 2 bowtie antenna. I have moved the antenna all the way around 360 degrees and the highest I can get is 9%. Cbs and Fox come in just fine on this antenna 90%+. I think you are right If you are North you are screwed. Hopefully this is a temp prob...

Regarding the HD200, I would rescan the channels from the set up menu and that should do the trick!

ANDYNG, Please PM me the Info about the silver sensor... THANKS

another person here in North Bronx got the same problem, can someone call ABC engineering room and ask for more information?
Do we have any building that block signal from 4 Times Square? Obviously we got no problem pulling signal from ESB but 4 TS is lower tower

Threaat Matrix looks great, my 1080 hdtv does a great job w/the 720 sing. in my opinin. cant wait for MNF a live broadcast must look awesome. Thanks WABC for free digi tv like it oughta be.

john

to monitor status of NBC-DT.

There must be a problem with the antenna brodcasting to the north. It doesnt make sense that people as far away as Philly can get 7.1 and us in the North Bronx (Only 18 miles away) cant get anything!!!!

i second that BS77, i just send you a pm, if you have a cm 7777 preamp, we can trade with my silver sensor or some way

Funny, my other HD200 is doing fine with 7.1 and mapping it correctly as well as my old Zenith DTV1080. I'll do that rescan on the other HD200. The HD out of Ct. and N.Y. look identical.

The highest I can get on my E86 meter is 15%. It goes from 0 to 15%. Both CBS and Fox are 100%. Tried an indoor - it was no better.

Is anyone due north of NYC getting a good signal?????

Can somebody PLEASE shed some light why we cant get any signal in the North Bronx, Yonkers, and The TappanZee bridge area.... Its VERY FRUSTRATING seeing EVERONE Else Enjoying the PARTY, and we CANT Join in !!!!!!!! :(

Originally posted by Ken Ross
The HD out of Ct. and N.Y. look identical.

I concur. And NYC is a much stronger signal for me, even out here.

I have become fond of the WTNH Doppler, though...I may keep that.

I welcome myself back to the NY DMA.

WABC-DT yeeeeeaaaaaaaaaahhhhhh baby


I actually get a better signal then cbs. WOOHOO.

Never seen threat matrix but it looks hot.

95% signal reception. i am getting it from jersey city, nj

Yeah Pat, that Doppler Radar is kind of fun during severe weather. Maybe we can get WABC to do that on 7.2! :D

ARGHH...the wife is still watching Survivor off the TIVO, but I'll be checking the deal from here in central Westchester as soon as it's done. I agree that there must be something seriously wrong if the signal is being picked up in Selden (SELDEN, for God's Sake!), LI and not in the Bronx or anywhere up near me. PLEASE, WABC, work this out.
Steve

Originally posted by bs77
There must be a problem with the antenna brodcasting to the north. It doesnt make sense that people as far away as Philly can get 7.1 and us in the North Bronx (Only 18 miles away) cant get anything!!!!

My E86 and RCA indoor antenna was booming at 100 until just a few minutes ago when I started getting breakups - - - - now no breakups again. I'm north and east of the transmitter on the ny/conn border.

Everyone keep in mind that this is the early test stage and they'll be tweaking for a while. Keep posting so that any engineer types listening can see the feedback from us.

WOW!!! Up Here In North Bronx/Yonkers MY SIGNAL JUST Went up from 3% to 9%... Uh Ohh Spoke too soon, back down to 3% again!!!!!!!!! THIS REALLY SUCKS!!!!! .... As fourthstooge said, They are just testing so Hopefully this will be Fixed. Otherwise I might be FORCED to move to N.J........eeewwww!

sorry to see some of you guys not enjoying this. for what its worth im using a crappy terk on a 2 story 10 miles from the city and it seems real powerfull. i get 2,5,sub 9 wor four ch 11's 7.01 & .02 no rotating no fuss. hope you guys get it before MNF

John
Originally posted by bs77
Can somebody PLEASE shed some light why we cant get any signal in the North Bronx, Yonkers, and The TappanZee bridge area.... Its VERY FRUSTRATING seeing EVERONE Else Enjoying the PARTY, and we CANT Join in !!!!!!!! :(

East Islip Long Island here.....

My rat shack UHF antenna is pulling in ABC at 36%, no breakups at all. FOX and CBS come in at 69%. I guess 36 is enough because its simply purrrffection!

if i use a cm 7777 preamp, how much it will improve my ABC signal. right now i got it in the range of 10-15%. Also, cbs and fox come at 80%, will the use of a preamp will overload the receiver?

All you Westchester Guys --

I'm in Yonkers right next to Cross County Center using my Silver Sensor inside my living room and am getting 77% (on 7-1) on my Samsung SIR-TS160 with no dropouts!

Aaron

Originally posted by bs77
WOW!!! Up Here In North Bronx/Yonkers MY SIGNAL JUST Went up from 3% to 9%... Uh Ohh Spoke too soon, back down to 3% again!!!!!!!!! THIS REALLY SUCKS!!!!! .... As fourthstooge said, They are just testing so Hopefully this will be Fixed. Otherwise I might be FORCED to move to N.J........eeewwww!

yeah ewww.. but i will be watching Monday Night Football at 95% and you will be watching ewwwww tv. LOL

Aaron,
You beat me by about 30 seconds. Here in Ardsley (Central Westchester, North of Yonkers; west of Tarrytown), I just scanned and I've got it too. Solid as a rock at around 80-90% on my Toshiba, using the antenna in my attic. The long wait seems to be over. Bravo WABC. Thanks.
Steve

Originally posted by aaron.s
All you Westchester Guys --

I'm in Yonkers right next to Cross County Center using my Silver Sensor inside my living room and am getting 77% (on 7-1) on my Samsung SIR-TS160 with no dropouts!

Aaron

Hey Aaron Im only 5 minutes south of you and I am still getting 3-9%. Where exactly do you live ?? I'll bring the brewskies!! LOL... Seriously I am still a newbie to this OTA. Where can I get the Silver Sensor, and how much does it cost ??

was there a contest? did i miss something?

john

[QUOTE]Originally posted by stevehoff
[B]Aaron,
You beat me by about 30 seconds.

bs77-

I live on Kimball Avenue within sight of the movie theater at the Cross County Center - watching on my 60" Sony Grand Wega II.

The Silver Sensor is aiming right towards the city (slightly southwest of me). You can get the Silver Sensor @ Circuit City (also at Cross County Center) for about $40.... BEST UHF antenna I've ever used - Radio Shack Double Bowtie included.

What antenna are you using and do you have it aimed towards the city?

Aaron

Originally posted by aaron.s
bs77-

I live on Kimball Avenue within sight of the movie theater at the Cross County Center - watching on my 60" Sony Grand Wega II.

The Silver Sensor is aiming right towards the city (slightly southwest of me). You can get the Silver Sensor @ Circuit City (also at Cross County Center) for about $40.... BEST UHF antenna I've ever used - Radio Shack Double Bowtie included.

What antenna are you using and do you have it aimed towards the city?

Aaron

Aaron, I am using a Channel Master 4 bowtie. It is in my attic. I am getting 100% on Cbs and FOX therefore I dont understand why I am only getting 3-9% for ABC ???

You mean I don't get a Silver Medal for being the second guy in Westchester to get Ch 7 in HDTV? :D

bs77 -

I would try deleting WABC-DT from your channel list and do a re-scan to see if it can pull it in better.

Other than that - only thing I can think of is that you possibly have your antenna pointed directly at the Empire State Building -- and ABC is coming from the Conde Nast Building at 4 Times Square which is a little east of the ESB (a little to the left when pointing our antennas). Is your antenna in the attic on a rotor? Can its position be moved?

Aaron

definetly. if im right i think i was the 1st to post getting it in the metro areA. if im right i hope i get a cookie with my MNF.

J

Originally posted by stevehoff
You mean I don't get a Silver Medal for being the second guy in Westchester to get Ch 7 in HDTV? :D

AaronS, ... My hand is the rotor!! and the kids are asleep so its a no go for the attic. I have hooked up my little rat shak 2 bowtie antenna. I can pull in CBS and FOX at 80-90%+ BUT I can only get as high as 18% for ABC after roating it 360 degrees. I guess I have to get the Silver Sensor, How big is it ??

I didn't read the forum after lunch today but I tried it when I got home and to my surprise I was getting 45-1 and 45-2. I'm getting about 58 on my DTC-100 with no drop outs. I have my attic mounted RS 13' (?) antenna with a CM7777 (powered by the DTC-100) about 10 degrees to the south of the best position for CBS-DT and FOX-DT in order to get a better signal for WPIX-DT. I didn't try moving it yet. I have the following signals:

CBS-DT - 94
Fox-DT - 88
WPIX-DT - 58
ABC-DT - 58
53.1 - 52

I'll play with the antenna over the weekend.

When do the Giants or Jets play on MNF next? :D

Steve

P.S. It's been a long 25+ months but I can finally say it was worth the wait.

bs77-

It's pretty small - not bigger than the RS Double Bowtie - but the antenna sits horizontally vs. vertically like the bowtie. Actually it is quite an attractive antenna in my opinion.

Still - try deleting ABC from your channel list and do a re-scan first. Also try moving the antenna in the attic a little bit east (to the left as pointed towards the city) when you have a chance....

Aaron

Here's a link:

http://www.silversensor.com/

Thanks Aaron.s!!! tried the rescan, no good. I really appreciate your help, hopefully its just a minor adjustment to my attic antenna. If it works Ill buy you a pint of guiness at Rory Dolans on Mclean ave!! Thanks again.

bs77, i got my Silver sensor from best buy at 39.99...it's very small but very powerful antenna. It's the size of a book. I didn't use it because my landlord let me use one of the antenna on the roof of my building. If you want, i can let you have my silver sensor at 30.

Believe it or not I have this antenna!!! I bought it months ago on e-bay!! I only used it for a few weeks. Then I decided to go with the attic antenna because I thought that would be better!! I cant try it now though my wife just grabbed the remote!! Thanks to aaron.s for giving me the link so I could see what the silver sensor looks like. I just knew it as Zenith Hdtv antenna!!! Like I said I am still a newbie... thanks to all.....

Same strong signal as CBS, no dropouts, here in Mahwah, NJ northern Bergen County/Suffern NY border. I'm using a Silver Sensor with no pre-amp!

Here in beautiful Asbury Park, NJ I'm getting a 100 signal strength on my E86 with an attic installed Winegard HD9095P UHF yagi. Life is good. Now only if WPIX moved back to 33. :D

Andyng,

Did you say you were getting 80% on your silver sensor ?? I tried the silver sensor and I am having same problem of only 10%. I tried the antenna in both positions and got the same signal strength. I can get up to 79% for 44 (CBS) and 60% for 56 (FOX). I must have something blocking my signal from ABC. I am right near woodlawn cementary So I dont understand why this is. If I get 100% for CBS and FOX on my attic antenna I should get higher than 10% for ABC!! RIGHT ??!!

bs77-

Maybe the Conde Nast building being a little east is being blocked my something by your line of site - either that or perhaps you're having problems with multipath interference?

I would also suggest maybe unplugging your HD receiver overnight before you go to bed - maybe it will reset itself?

Aaron

what gives...now im getting no signal in east islip.....did they lower the juice?

Originally posted by antneye
what gives...now im getting no signal in east islip.....did they lower the juice?

Still same signal for me in Selden.

Originally posted by sjf99
When do the Giants or Jets play on MNF next? :D

Nov. 24, NY Giants at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Dec. 1, Tennessee Titans at NY Jets

i'm now cycling between 0 and 20%. I was locked in with great pic at 39% for a while. I am not going to panic because i am sure that they are doing all sorts of tweaking since they just turned it on. I will have to keep an eye on it and see if it improves over next few days.

If this doesnt improve.....what are my options? I get CBS and FOX at 69 (although now they are att 77 since i lost abc) and ABC was at 39. Should i get a bigger antenna or simply install a pre-amp?

Originally posted by aaron.s
bs77-

Maybe the Conde Nast building being a little east is being blocked my something by your line of site - either that or perhaps you're having problems with multipath interference?

I would also suggest maybe unplugging your HD receiver overnight before you go to bed - maybe it will reset itself?

Aaron

will do...Thanks

Originally posted by antneye
i'm now cycling between 0 and 20%. I was locked in with great pic at 39% for a while. I am not going to panic because i am sure that they are doing all sorts of tweaking since they just turned it on. I will have to keep an eye on it and see if it improves over next few days.

If this doesnt improve.....what are my options? I get CBS and FOX at 69 (although now they are att 77 since i lost abc) and ABC was at 39. Should i get a bigger antenna or simply install a pre-amp?

What are you using now?

rat shack 15-2160 uhf only antenna...they rate it for 75 miles.....i am 41 from towers. no probs with cbs and fox. don't get pix. I guess its too early in the game to draw a conclusion on abc.

Originally posted by antneye
rat shack 15-2160 uhf only antenna...they rate it for 75 miles.....i am 41 from towers. no probs with cbs and fox. don't get pix. I guess its too early in the game to draw a conclusion on abc.

I'd just try to tweak a little if it doesn't improve. If you get CBS and FOX, you should get ABC. At our distance it's only a 2 or 3 degree difference. I've been getting a consistent signal from ABC all night. Maybe you're a couple of degrees off south of the ESB, which will be OK for CBS and FOX, but put you out of the game for ABC? Just brainstorming...