[How's that for a jargon-filled subject? :D ]

This is a slightly off-topic question. Can someone point me at a DVR that can record OTA HD, especially one that does not incur a monthly fee? (In other words, not TiVo.) It looks as though most HD DVRs are pitched to people with cable service.

TIA
Dave Kristol

Check your local Best Buy if they are any units left (http://esupport.sony.com/perl/model-home.pl?mdl=DHGHDD250&LOC=3/) :rolleyes:

[How's that for a jargon-filled subject? :D ]

This is a slightly off-topic question. Can someone point me at a DVR that can record OTA HD, especially one that does not incur a monthly fee? (In other words, not TiVo.) It looks as though most HD DVRs are pitched to people with cable service.

TIA
Dave Kristol


I just bought a Sony DHG-HDD250 for $499 from Best Buy. If you're a good customer you should've just got a coupon packet for 10% - 12% off from 3/10 to 3/13 so if you see one pick it up. I actually tunes as well as my Samsung SIRT-451 and it records beautifiully. You won't notice a difference. If you are more daring you can find the DHG-HDD500 on ebay all in the 500 range and it records 2x as much TV as the 250

In a nutshell, if there's quick action on the screen or fast moving images you'll see "noise" or some digital PQ degradation:

http://hometheaterfocus.com/blog/archive/2005/05/29/207.aspx

I've noticed it on some OTA stations (most notably NJN-HD as well as the national PBS-HD feed picked up on 13-1) and not JUST on DirecTV broadcasts (i.e compression issues).

I dont think the "noise" is due to PQ. I have a 4 year old Toshiba HDTV and I get all the NYC channels OTA and when there is fast movement there is no problem. I have been dying for the past year or so to replace this large RPTV with a sleek LCD but for one reason or another they just dont make quite the right TV I'd want. For instance, MOST TVs are 1366 x 720 and even worse most Plasmas are 1024 x 768. When I look at alot of these TVs from a distance they're fabulous. Get up closer and you see smearing, screen door effect, pixels, and halos or jagged edges around letters. The main problem is the response time of turning the pixels on and off. Samsung has some EXCELLENT TVs (26/32/40/46) that are 8ms response time and they are THAT GOOD. But, the key is to but the "9" series TVs. Best Buy sells the rubes the "8" series and they have 12ms response times. But, the one drawback is they're all 1366 x 720. CRTs just refresh faster than all the newer TVs. So I think what you're seeing is the same thing as with analog CRT TVs. My 20 inch Sony ALWAYS had a MUCH crisper picture than a 27 or 32". It just that it's the same number of pixels just squeezed tighter.

Does WCBS.com post what NCAA basketball games they have? I don't see anything yet, but of course it is only Monday.

Yes it does now, the TV schedule has been updated, http://wcbstv.com/programming
16th
12:10pm NCAA TOURNAMENT
12:15pm NCAA IN HIGH DEFINITION// Wichita State vs. Seton Hall & Tennesse vs. Winthrop

7pm NCAA TOURNAMENT// LSU vs. Iona... Syracuse vs. Texas A&M
7:15pm NCAA IN HIGH DEFINITION// George Washington vs. UNC-Wilmington & Duke vs. Southern

17th
12:10pm NCAA TOURNAMENT
12:15pm NCAA IN HIGH DEFINITION// Arizona vs. Wisconsin & Villanova vs.
7pm NCAA TOURNAMENT
7:15pm NCAA IN HIGH DEFINITION// UCONN- Albany & Kentucky-UAB1

excellent, thanks much

Hi -- I live on the Upper West Side in the 70s, 4th floor, South facing windows (and deck) towards courtyard. No view of ESB.

Any suggestions on an antenna? For Elgato EyeTV 500. What are my chances of getting decent reception?

(Yes I did go to antennaweb, it tells me I need a medium roof top directional antenna -- needless to say I do not have roof access, but the roof is only one story above me & my deck anyway -- not that I want some big ugly thing on my deck).

Anyway -- any and all suggestions gratefully appreciated, I am an HDTV newbie.

Ted

Ted, have you tried an indoor antenna? Bestbuy carries this (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7322587&type=product&productCategoryId=cat08084&id=1118844608800), which is a which a knock off of the Silver Sensor (http://www.zenith.com/sub_prod/product_Display.asp?cat=&id=131). I'd to find the Silver Sensor first, as it will be cheaper, and will work just as well. If that doesn't work, you should then try to add an amplifier (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2103094&cp=2032057&f=Taxonomy%2FRSK%2F2032057&categoryId=2032057&kwCatId=2032057&kw=amplifier&parentPage=search) . Good luck.

Ted -

You could try an amplifier, if you can return it.

Your problem will not be too weak of a signal, but you will be dealing with multipath reception. I strongly recommend the Silver Sensor. I live in the East 60s, also without line-of-sight to the ESB. and use one with pretty decent results.

An amplifier will do nothing but overload your tuner.

Gary

for the 2nd night in a row,the ota digital broadcasts seem to be out ,starting around 12:45.

Way past my bedtime

I can't get a high enough signal to tune in WABC-DT which was never a problem.
Just now the signal came back to 70% I still get choppy audio but no video.

Also WABC-DT is out via Cablevision.

no problem here in Suffolk OTA or cable

I just started looking at antennas to add HDTV to my HTPC and looking for suggestions on an antenna for the roof. I went to Antennaweb.org and it only listed analog channels as available to me, being broadcast from the Empire State Building. Obviously after looking at this thread it would seem that HDs are also being broadcast. Acording to Antennaweb I am 53 miles North of the broadcast location of the channels I am interested in. Can someone suggest an antenna that will not be a gigantic eyesore but still able to do 53 miles? I was looking at the Winegard SquareShooter w/ pre amp that claims a 40-50 mile reach, but not sure if that may be pushing it. Antennaweb puts me in the Violet (fringe?) area. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

You might want to call the folks at AntennasDirect. I bought a 91xg from them. They are very nice and know what they are talking about. I had a technical question that the woman who answered could not answer and she got a tech. on the phone, who answered everything. I am able to reach a channel in Jersey that is showing as over 50 miles away.

No HD for the NJ Nets home game on WWOR-DT tonight and I am guessing no HD for the Yankee home games either.

I recently bought an HDTV with ATSC QAM. I live in Stamford, CT and have CableVision IO Broadcast Basic package. The BB package includes local HD channels according to their website. However, when I hooked cable to the DTV input and scanned channel, it found 30+ channels, but only one digital music channel is visible. It is a blank screen for all other 30+ channels. I called cablevision, the CSR told me I have to get a cablebox for $5+ monthly rental just to get local HD. That is ridiculous if they encrypt local HD channels. Someone has posted on the forum that FCC requires cable company to carry local HD in the clear. Are there anyone with CableVision in Stamford area who can view HD channels without a cable box? I also tried with an indoor antenna. I do not get any analog or DTV channels at all. Is it because there are no TV towers close enough to Stamford?

Thanks.

I recently bought an HDTV with ATSC QAM. I live in Stamford, CT and have CableVision IO Broadcast Basic package. The BB package includes local HD channels according to their website. However, when I hooked cable to the DTV input and scanned channel, it found 30+ channels, but only one digital music channel is visible. It is a blank screen for all other 30+ channels. I called cablevision, the CSR told me I have to get a cablebox for $5+ monthly rental just to get local HD. That is ridiculous if they encrypt local HD channels. Someone has posted on the forum that FCC requires cable company to carry local HD in the clear. Are there anyone with CableVision in Stamford area who can view HD channels without a cable box? I also tried with an indoor antenna. I do not get any analog or DTV channels at all. Is it because there are no TV towers close enough to Stamford?

Thanks.I believe there may be something wrong with the TV or the hook-up.
I am on CV here on Long Island and I have basic cable and get all the local
broadcast stations unencrypted with a QAM enabled TV. No cable box required.
Regarding OTA reception in Stamford, you may not be able to receive much with
an indoor antenna, your nearest stations are located in Bridgeport, which is not
much closer than NYC, where most local stations are transmitting from the
Empire State Building.

wb

I believe there may be something wrong with the TV or the hook-up.
I am on CV here on Long Island and I have basic cable and get all the local
broadcast stations unencrypted with a QAM enabled TV. No cable box required.
Regarding OTA reception in Stamford, you may not be able to receive much with
an indoor antenna, your nearest stations are located in Bridgeport, which is not
much closer than NYC, where most local stations are transmitting from the
Empire State Building.

wb
Thanks wbrack - I am pretty sure the hookup was correct, because I was able to find 30+ DTV channels with channel names like ABCHD. But only 1 digital music channel has some sound and image. The others are all dead. Do you have the Family basic package or the Broadcast basic package? Is there a way to test the QAM tuner? I would hate to return the TV to costco.

Thanks wbrack - I am pretty sure the hookup was correct, because I was able to find 30+ DTV channels with channel names like ABCHD. But only 1 digital music channel has some sound and image. The others are all dead. Do you have the Family basic package or the Broadcast basic package? Is there a way to test the QAM tuner? I would hate to return the TV to costco.

Well, I don't know how your TV works, but when I do a channel scan on mine, it
ignores all the encrypted channels. So if it finds ABC HD there should be a picture.
I have family cable which requires broadcast basic. You can't have family without
the other. Do you see all the standard definition channels? And are you sure your
tv is DCR (Digital Cable Ready) I have never found a digital music channel on my
TV, but that might be just CV on Long Island. Before you take the TV back, keep
checking the various forums to see if you can find somebody in your area that
uses CV. I know that CV in CT may not be exactly the same as LI, but I really
doubt the standard broadcast would be encrypted on your system.

wb

I just noticed tonight that 11.2, which was broadcasting the same program as 11.1 in Spanish has become a new 11.2 music/MTV channel and 11.3 SD version of 11.1. The picture quality of 11.2 was not great but I relly like the idea to have a music channel.

Has anyone noticed a drop in the WB signal stregnth the last day or two? Just wondering if my signal drop outs are related to this.

I just noticed tonight that 11.2, which was broadcasting the same program as 11.1 in Spanish has become a new 11.2 music/MTV channel and 11.3 SD version of 11.1. The picture quality of 11.2 was not great but I relly like the idea to have a music channel.

I love it! But what is going to happen once WPIX-DT goes off the air end of 2006 and change over to the new CW Network?

http://www.thetubetv.com

Unfortunately "The Tube Music Network" has been removed from WPIX-DT 11-2.
I am just glad that I was able to archive some of the content.

I love it! But what is going to happen once WPIX-DT goes off the air end of 2006 and change over to the new CW Network?

http://www.thetubetv.com

WPIX-DT is not going off the air!

What is changing is that the WB Network is merging with another network,UPN to become a new entity - the CW network.

WPIX and WPIX-DT will be the New York area affiliated stations carrying the new network's programming.

Gary

WPIX-DT is not going off the air!

What is changing is that the WB Network is merging with another network,UPN to become a new entity - the CW network.

WPIX and WPIX-DT will be the New York area affiliated stations carrying the new network's programming.

GaryWhat happens to channel 9?

FOX is launching a new network, MyNetworkTV, from the remnants of the UPN that FOX owns (channel 9 is one) and others. The new network is going to be an American take on the telenovela. Launch is scheduled for the fall season.

I noticed yesterday that 11-3 had a simulcast of the Mets game in Spanish.

Wouldn't it be good if Fox - WNYW-DT, carried the Fox Reality Channel, http://www.foxreality.com , on digital sub channel, 5-2, instead of the -current- UPN feed?
I think that the networks should carry their newest channels on digital tv. Most of the time the channels aren't carried by the cable companies and this would be a way to generate interest in these channels.........

Okay, as of 4:50 pm on Tuesday, April 18, 2006 ( a time now history) The Tube Music Network is back on the air. WPIX-DT, channel 11-2

And once again my reception of WB goes to hell. Did anyone else have reception trouble with WPIX-DT last night?

.....while analog 7 was covering the Tram failure in the city. I found it *cool* that anyone who was watching an ABC show at 10pm last night was able to...instead of having to miss a show for news coverage. Did any of the other local stations digital channels also cover the Tram or did they all leave the network programming on and just put the analog channel into "breaking news" coverage?

I didn't bother to check 2 or 4 at 10pm to see what they were doing.

:confused:

I am wondering if the NJ Nets and Yankees games via Channel 9 in New York market are broadcasted in HD - because, if so, I will for sure get an HD antenna tonight to be able to watch NJ Nets in HD, since Comcast doesn't carry Channel 9 HD feed here in NJ.

Did anyone notice a 'strobing' effect on Medium last night (4/24), similar to watching 24 FPS versus 30 FPS? I tuned to Medium and thought it was part of a dream sequence, but after 15 minutes and a headache, I decided it was either my receiver (Dish 622- watching OTA) or the broadcast. Note that I watched FOX 24 prior to Medium via OTA, and it was fine on my receiver. In fact, the suitcase game show that was on earlier on WNBC digital was fine, as well. An interesting note is that lip sync was perfect on Medium.

I am wondering if the NJ Nets and Yankees games via Channel 9 in New York market are broadcasted in HD - because, if so, I will for sure get an HD antenna tonight to be able to watch NJ Nets in HD, since Comcast doesn't carry Channel 9 HD feed here in NJ.

I don't watch the Nets, but the Yankees' games on 9 are definitely SD. My guess is that the same is true for the Nets.

Did anyone notice a 'strobing' effect on Medium last night (4/24), similar to watching 24 FPS versus 30 FPS? I tuned to Medium and thought it was part of a dream sequence, but after 15 minutes and a headache, I decided it was either my receiver (Dish 622- watching OTA) or the broadcast. Note that I watched FOX 24 prior to Medium via OTA, and it was fine on my receiver. In fact, the suitcase game show that was on earlier on WNBC digital was fine, as well. An interesting note is that lip sync was perfect on Medium.

Wish I could help, but I'm not a Medium viewer. Along the same lines: Invasion, on ABC from last Wednesday---anyone else (hell, not even sure if anyone watches it.....) notice the OTA feed on 7-1 giving them green lines shooting across the screen as well as pulsing dark areas preceding said green lines? I didn't get a chance to sit down and watch my recording until this past weekend. My other recordings on my HDTIVO from that night OTA were fine .


:confused:

I am wondering if the NJ Nets and Yankees games via Channel 9 in New York market are broadcasted in HD - because, if so, I will for sure get an HD antenna tonight to be able to watch NJ Nets in HD, since Comcast doesn't carry Channel 9 HD feed here in NJ.

Unfortunately, the nets on My Nine, are also in SD. Quite disappointing.

has anyone else noticed "glitching" on WABC-DT all day long?it seems to happen every minute or two,and I don't notice it on the subchannel.

has anyone else noticed "glitching" on WABC-DT all day long?it seems to happen every minute or two,and I don't notice it on the subchannel.

Yes, very annoying. Had to switch to the station's analog channel.

Gary

thanks Gary for confirming it,I thought my Accurian was failing,lol.

I'm getting my Samsung LCD tele Wednesday. Can anyone recommend a GOOD INDOOR hdtv antenna for HD channels 1-13 basically ABC, CBS and FOX to watch for my TV? I'm facing east and I live in Bellerose, NY by Little Neck PKWY. Thanks!

Does anybody know of a reputable repair shop that works on Plasmas in the NYC/NNJ area?

My 3 year old Gateway (rebranded Sampro) plasma has decided to only power on and show black- then refuses to respond to any commands via the front panel or remote, including to power back off.

I suspect it’s just a controller board of some kinda that’s gone bad, but need somebody that can get parts for the unit.

Thanks,
Bernie

Hey anyone from Long Island want to help me install a DB4 to the back of my folk's house on Friday afternoon? I'd write the details but if you go and read the last 30 or so posts from the Long Island thread you will get the gist of what I'm dealing with here. In a nutshell I'm trying to pull in NBC (since we get everything else) from a single story Commack house. I have the time to do it and my father would like to get it installed and working before the Derby on Saturday. I can't really do the problem justice in one post so it definitely helps you to understand my problem if you go to the LI thread, but just to get my voice out here and possibly get someone would help. PM me if you think you can help.

I'm getting my Samsung LCD tele Wednesday. Can anyone recommend a GOOD INDOOR hdtv antenna for HD channels 1-13 basically ABC, CBS and FOX to watch for my TV? I'm facing east and I live in Bellerose, NY by Little Neck PKWY. Thanks!
with indoor antennas,there's no knowing how good they are until you bring them home,and try it out in your location. In my own experience,I had bought and returned many amplified antennas,and shockingly what works best is the piece of crap 3.99 bowtie from Radio Shack,lol.You could try getting your hands on a Silver Sensor(and possibly hooking it up to an amplifier) or you could try this antenna,meant for outdoor use,but can be used indoors.
http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=ANC3021

I'm getting my Samsung LCD tele Wednesday. Can anyone recommend a GOOD INDOOR hdtv antenna for HD channels 1-13 basically ABC, CBS and FOX to watch for my TV? I'm facing east and I live in Bellerose, NY by Little Neck PKWY. Thanks!

got the samsung lns3251d on saturday for manhattan apartment. Terk HDTVa antenna pro, which is amplified, gets all nyc hd channels except for ch 13. $55 at b&h photo, price matched at pc richards, which also price matched the samsung with 12 months % free financing.

good luck

with indoor antennas,there's no knowing how good they are until you bring them home,and try it out in your location. In my own experience,I had bought and returned many amplified antennas,and shockingly what works best is the piece of crap 3.99 bowtie from Radio Shack,lol.You could try getting your hands on a Silver Sensor(and possibly hooking it up to an amplifier) or you could try this antenna,meant for outdoor use,but can be used indoors.


got the samsung lns3251d on saturday for manhattan apartment. Terk HDTVa antenna pro, which is amplified, gets all nyc hd channels except for ch 13. $55 at b&h photo, price matched at pc richards, which also price matched the samsung with 12 months % free financing.

good luck

I got my Samsung lns3241d today so I won't be able to see it till Thurs. How much did you get the lns3251d for? I got the 41d for $1050 w/4yr warranty, wall mount, and this antenna amazon/gp/product/B00006FXR9/sr=8-1/qid=1146603817/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-2613388-8261666?%5Fencoding=UTF8

So that brings me to my next question...does anyone know if this is the actual Zenith Silver Sensor antenna? It says Zenith on the title but is manufactured by gemini the link is above or right here amazon/gp/product/B00006FXR9/sr=8-1/qid=1146603817/ref=pd_bbs_1/002-2613388-8261666?%5Fencoding=UTF8 .. Thanks!

can't see the link,but I'm pretty sure it's the Silver Sensor,it was sold under the Zenith,Philips/Magnavox, and Gemini brands.

Unfortunately "The Tube Music Network" has been removed from WPIX-DT 11-2.
I am just glad that I was able to archive some of the content.

It's back.

Alias is glitching like crazy right now,presumably Lost will be all screwed up too. :mad:

Saw the same thing on Lost. My receptions been really off the last few weeks. WB, Fox, UPN and CBS have all been affected at one point or another. Only NBC seems to be coming in without any hickups for me. Theories?

could it be the warmer weather is causing interference and/or lowering signal strength?WPIX seemed to get a little stronger a few weeks ago,around the same time the Tube music channel started,but now it's pretty weak.
Not reception related,but something sorta interesting happened on 10 o'clock news on FOX,they had a major technical problem,an(automated?) camera kept zooming in and out on Ernie Anastos,then they cut to a commercial,then they tried to show a few minutes of MASH,finally they just switched to WOR's news.

WNYW had a power issue in the studio that's why then went to My9.

I'm also having a harder time locking in WPIX-DT for northern NJ.

The audio is low and I have horizontal lines on the video on the OTA and cable WABC-DT feed.
http://img236.imageshack.us/img236/4143/snapshot00051ss.th.jpg (http://img236.imageshack.us/my.php?image=snapshot00051ss.jpg)

I know also a few days ago this week the video was going out every few seconds on all programming.

I wonder if the PSIP for ABC is also messed up,I did arescan on my Accurian ,now when I hit 7 on the remote,it doesn't work,I have to tune in 45 instead.NBC is also the same,I have to press 28 instead of 4.
edit: nevermind-weird,I noticed the stb had added "additional"7-1 and 4-1 channels,those were the ones I had being trying to watch.

Anyone besides me have trouble with WABC-DT during Gray's Anatomy tonight? Lots of breakups followed a complete signal loss. I had no problems with my other OTA digital signals.

I only watched maybe the first 10 minutes,but I didn't notice any breakups.I notice reception today on NBC-DT is very poor.

I only watched maybe the first 10 minutes,but I didn't notice any breakups.I notice reception today on NBC-DT is very poor.

Speaking of reception/signal issues: Are there any local OTA viewers of 13-1 who've noticed any signal/reception issues? I TIVO'D a showing of "The Desert Speaks" overnight Sunday AM (5:30 ?) and the whole 30 minute broadcast had various sections with quick "flashing" of a fixed image on the screen. (lasted for a fingersnap). When I rewound the TIVO to watch it again in slo-mo to see what the flashing image was, all I got was a black screen that didn't match the image that I saw flash on/off the screen.

Very weird...... :confused:

Saw the same "flashing" on 13-1Hd this weekend

I had no problems with Grey's last night, but reception from ESB (combiner stations and Fox) has been sketcht for the last month. Just how much do leaves affect OTA reception?

Watching 24 last night I noticed Fox 5 has a new logo- much worse than the old, it's practically brilliant white and hardly opaque if any at all. Very aggrevating visually. Don't have a screenshot right now, should be able to post one later.

Watching 24 last night I noticed Fox 5 has a new logo- much worse than the old, it's practically brilliant white and hardly opaque if any at all. Very aggrevating visually. Don't have a screenshot right now, should be able to post one later.

I noticed that, too. I really hate those things. The networks are very obnoxious with this stuff. I also hate those commercials they pop up in the lower left hand corner while a show is going on. I would love to meet one of these boneheads one day.

I've been having breakup difficulties too at different times during the day. The only stable channels are NBC, WNET, and NJN. I have a rotor on my antenna and I really had to play around with the position allot till I get a solid lock. Then after a few hours I have to adjust again what a pain lately! I can't even get a lock on channels 2(CBS) 5(FOX) or 11(WPIX). What are the networks doing? I hope they will resolve this problem soon. Especially when I only live less than 20 miles away from the transmitter in Bergen county.

Just a heads up that 13-1 will have a Sheryl Crow Soundstage concert on tonight at 10pm. First Soundstage HD presentation I can recall on 13-1 in awhile......

It's funny you mentioned it. I saw it in HD on 50-3 about 2 weeks ago but the channel disappeared since then. That was the only time I seen NJN with HD.

It's funny you mentioned it. I saw it in HD on 50-3 about 2 weeks ago but the channel disappeared since then. That was the only time I seen NJN with HD.

Well wouldn't you know it....I forgot to even set the (*&#(*& Tivo to record the darn thing...... :(

Well, I don't know how your TV works, but when I do a channel scan on mine, it
ignores all the encrypted channels. So if it finds ABC HD there should be a picture.
I have family cable which requires broadcast basic. You can't have family without
the other. Do you see all the standard definition channels? And are you sure your
tv is DCR (Digital Cable Ready) I have never found a digital music channel on my
TV, but that might be just CV on Long Island. Before you take the TV back, keep
checking the various forums to see if you can find somebody in your area that
uses CV. I know that CV in CT may not be exactly the same as LI, but I really
doubt the standard broadcast would be encrypted on your system.

wb

Wbreck, I am just a few miles (about 15) east of you in Port Jeff area. I have CV with family also that is connected directly to my current tv (SD) which is cable ready. I am awaiting delivery of a panny 50px600 (HD) soon that will have a cable card in it and I am checking out what I might need to do additionally for HD recption.

Is your set up similar, where your cable wire is connected directly into your plasma or avr (sans in-house cablebox) so that you are picking up HD stations out of NYC via the cable without their direct assistance?

Any other comments would be appreciated.
Thanks

I just noticed that 13.3 is now finally added to TV Guide On Screen. (TVGOS) The channel code is WNETW. This channel has some shows I like, but if it's not on TVGOS I won't remember to tune in.

-Geert

Wbreck, I am just a few miles (about 15) east of you in Port Jeff area. I have CV with family also that is connected directly to my current tv (SD) which is cable ready. I am awaiting delivery of a panny 50px600 (HD) soon that will have a cable card in it and I am checking out what I might need to do additionally for HD recption.

Is your set up similar, where your cable wire is connected directly into your plasma or avr (sans in-house cablebox) so that you are picking up HD stations out of NYC via the cable without their direct assistance?

Any other comments would be appreciated.
Thanks
The TV here is a Toshiba 37HL95 which has built-in ATSC and QAM tuners. It has
two RF input connectors, one for cable and the other for antenna. Since the QAM
tuner is built in, there is no cable box or cable card required to receive digital
cable, which includes the HD channels of the local TV stations, namely CBS, NBC,
ABC, Fox, WB,and PBS. If you are interested in some of the other HD channels,
such as ESPN HD, Yes Network HD, those channels are encrypted and you will
need a cable card or a cable box to receive them.

wb

The TV here is a Toshiba 37HL95 which has built-in ATSC and QAM tuners. It has
two RF input connectors, one for cable and the other for antenna. Since the QAM
tuner is built in, there is no cable box or cable card required to receive digital
cable, which includes the HD channels of the local TV stations, namely CBS, NBC,
ABC, Fox, WB,and PBS. If you are interested in some of the other HD channels,
such as ESPN HD, Yes Network HD, those channels are encrypted and you will
need a cable card or a cable box to receive them.

wb

Thanks much for the follow up :) .

..Mark

For the past couple weeks I have been having trouble receiving WNET HD on 61.5. I live in Northern NJ and had no problems previously. Is anyone else having similar problems?


Les

Hi guys, I just moved to Clinton Hill Brooklyn, more specifically:

500 washington av
brooklyn 11238

with my little silver sensor and my dvico tuner card

I get about 2 to 3 channels, 2-1 wcbs, 5-1 wnyw, and 68-1 wfut. Antennaweb says that because I live in a multistory building with other multistory buildings around me that I need Red directional UHF/VHF.

What do you think it will take for me to get all or most of the following networks: UPN, PBS, WB, NBC, CBS, and ABC?

I'm on the corner of the second story of a 6 story building. I have windows on 2 walls, so it surprises me I don't much.

I'm new to this, do I need to put a fancy antenna on the roof of our apartment building?

About halfway through the middle of SNL on 5/13, the reception on NBC 28 starting blinking in and out. A couple of days later, it's just gone.

Is anyone else in Montclair NJ or anyone else in particular having a similar issue? I had assumed, due to it's total outage and lack of response to all attempts at fiddling and the fact that nothing had changed on my end (the reception on all the other channels is good), that there was an issue with NBC's transmitters. Do I just need to fiddle with it more?

About halfway through the middle of SNL on 5/13, the reception on NBC 28 starting blinking in and out. A couple of days later, it's just gone.

Is anyone else in Montclair NJ or anyone else in particular having a similar issue? I had assumed, due to it's total outage and lack of response to all attempts at fiddling and the fact that nothing had changed on my end (the reception on all the other channels is good), that there was an issue with NBC's transmitters. Do I just need to fiddle with it more?

We watched ER in HD last night on NBC. (We're in Summit, NJ.) There were a couple of pixelation glitches, but the reception was mostly fine.

Dave Kristol

We watched ER in HD last night on NBC. (We're in Summit, NJ.) There were a couple of pixelation glitches, but the reception was mostly fine.

Dave Kristol

Does anyone else have sound issues when viewing/TIVO'ing 4-1 for Conan or Leno? I have audio issues on either live playback through my TV or my surround sound system...or time shifted stuff. In a nutshell: there is no sound coming out of the center speaker when listening on ANY sound mode on the surround sound...and when putting the TV sound on I have to crank up my Zenith sound to 75 or so...when most other NBC programming is fine at 32!

I *think* there were issues mentioned earlier in this thread.....though I can't recall off the top of my head....anyone else ?!?!?
:confused:

Does anyone else have sound issues when viewing/TIVO'ing 4-1 for Conan or Leno? I have audio issues on either live playback through my TV or my surround sound system...or time shifted stuff. In a nutshell: there is no sound coming out of the center speaker when listening on ANY sound mode on the surround sound...and when putting the TV sound on I have to crank up my Zenith sound to 75 or so...when most other NBC programming is fine at 32!

I *think* there were issues mentioned earlier in this thread.....though I can't recall off the top of my head....anyone else ?!?!?
:confused:

The NBC network is putting out incorrectly constructed 5.1-channel audio on most audio that is not true 5.1-channel sound. This includes Leno and Conan. The sound from these programs is two-channel stereo which they insert into the left and right channels, leaving the other four channels silent. The result is a hollow echoey sound which I find very annoying. I switch to analog audio from these programs to have my receiver derive center and surround channels via Pro-logic. WCBS and WABC also do the same thing on their local programming such as the newscasts.

Cynthia

Reception was spotty the last few night's here at my folks house in Commack so I understand those troubles. On another note though I have a Panasonic TU-DST51A tuner and I was watching the Yanks-Mets game in HD on WB11 but I only got the spanish language feed. I know I don't have SAP button on either the TV or the tuner so I'm thinking everyone got that or it might be an issue with the tuner, but I want to rule all other options out first. I know that I wasn't tuned to their 11-3 signal because the display popped up as 11-1. Does anyone have an answer for me?

although I didn't see that particular game,I have tuned to 11-1 and the audio was in Spanish,definitely something gets messed up on their end occasionally.

although I didn't see that particular game,I have tuned to 11-1 and the audio was in Spanish,definitely something gets messed up on their end occasionally.

I noticed a lot of macroblocking/pixelation on fast moving scenes (i.e when someone got a basehit and they switched to the 3rd base camera to follow the hitter as he rounded first the ENTIRE background went to mush....) and I still see the same issues when they throw a fast graphic up on the screen...and then the graphic quickly disappears/disperses.

I noticed a lot of macroblocking/pixelation on fast moving scenes (i.e when someone got a basehit and they switched to the 3rd base camera to follow the hitter as he rounded first the ENTIRE background went to mush....) and I still see the same issues when they throw a fast graphic up on the screen...and then the graphic quickly disappears/disperses.


And they waste bandwidth on another music video channel.

although I didn't see that particular game,I have tuned to 11-1 and the audio was in Spanish,definitely something gets messed up on their end occasionally.
Ok so at least I'm not the only one. I'll talk about it to the install guy Tuesday. Not that he'll likely know what it is all about. Thanks to those who tipped me off to Variety TV.

ABC-DT seems off air,no picture despite 70-80+ on the signal meter.

Can anyone in Northern NJ (Bergen County) verify whether they can receive WNET HD (61.5) OTA? What kind of signal strength do you receive (compared to other HD channels)?

I have not been able to receive the channel for the past 3 weeks (low signal strength). Previously, I have had no problems, but this problem appeared all of a sudden. All the other HD channels are fine...

Thanks in advance.

Les

Can anyone in Northern NJ (Bergen County) verify whether they can receive WNET HD (61.5) OTA? What kind of signal strength do you receive (compared to other HD channels)?

I have not been able to receive the channel for the past 3 weeks (low signal strength). Previously, I have had no problems, but this problem appeared all of a sudden. All the other HD channels are fine...

Thanks in advance.

Les
I live in Rockland County and I am receiving WNET HD fine, but the signal does decrease a little. It does not affect the picture. You might need a rotor for your antenna, sometimes I have to tweek it to get a good signal.

I have also lost channel 7...no pic or sound....on a DISH 942 and on my HTPC using a VBox ATSC tuner...yet my Mistubishi TV can pick it up....does anyone know why?

that is indeed strange.I hope ABC gets it's act together,they've had a lot of recent problems.

My ABC-DT is fine but I cannot get CBS right now

I missed Alias last night due to ABCs problems. CBS' Cold Case was riddled with breakups for most of the 1st half hour Sunday night. Interestingly, Charmed came through perfectly. Are these stations playing with the transmitters or something?

No silly it's the wind. On a bright note Variety TV came and installed my DB4 on my folks' roof, and what a great job they did, They now get all the digitals from NYC plus WLIW, WNJU, and some spanish stations which will be good come world cup time. Also they did a great job with the install as the stations are total locks with no dropouts. Thanks again to all those who tipped me off to them.

I'm not a reception expert but I think that the variation in reception is due more to atmospheric conditions concerning cloud coverage, humidity, "tropospheric conditions", etc. rather than simply the wind. These effect the transmission of the airwaves and effect multipath distortion.

I have been receiving OTA HDTV for approximately 4 years and have been frustrated by the variation in the signal strength and multipath distortion depending on the weather.

I currently have a CM 4248 with a CM 7777 pre-amp and a CM 9521A rotator approximately 15' above my split level in Westbury, LI, NY. This feeds my Mitsubishi WS65907 with the Promise Module (HDTV decoder). Depending on the weather conditions I have to switch between multiple configurations to avoid losing, or to gain stations.

1. CM 7777 ON, no splitter. My current setup. Receives 2,4,5,7,9,11,13 well. However when there is heavy cloud coverage and/or rain I often will lose the most powerful stations (2 and 5 and sometimes 7) due to overdriving the HDTV receiver and or multipath distortion. At this point I will try setup 2.

2. CM 7777 ON, 2-way splitter. Sometimes this will cut the signal enough so that I can lock in on 2, 5 and sometimes 7. I will always lose channel 13, usually lose 11 and sometimes lose 9 with this setting. At times I have turned the antenna off axis 20-30 degrees to lock in on CBS (305-315 rather than 285 degrees). With this setting I will lose all other channels. If that doesn't work I go to setup 3.

3. CM 7777 OFF (bypassed), no splitter. I had been using this setup for the last several weeks but I returned to setup 1 when I lost channel 4 in addition to 11 and 13 which I never receive with this setup.

It has been my observation that when atmospheric conditions improve UHF transmission, the improvement is not uniform across the board. The more powerful stations improve more dramatically and begin to either overdrive my receiver or cause more multipath distortion. The weaker stations seem to only improve marginally. When I decrease the signal to receive the more powerful stations, I always lose some if not most weaker stations. I will always lose 13.

I had originally selected the CM 4248 rather than the 4228 because testing at:

http://www.atechfabrication.com/reception_solutions.htm

had indicated that a Yagi would be better than a bowtie antenna to reduce multipath distortion.

At the present time I am still open to suggestions concerning different antenna choices and I continue to read this thread for ideas.

P.S. It would certainly be much more helpful if people indicated on their ID the town they live in rather than just "Long Island" so others can more accurately assess the antennas they use and problems they are encountering. It was only after someone who I think was in Smithtown stated that he was receiving channel 13 with no problems that I again changed my configuration and I am now receiving that station.

I solved my multipath problems with a Wineguard SS-1000 Square Shooter antenna. Although I get excellent signal strength on all channels, WCBS-DT would drop out everytime it rained. The SS-1000 is circularly polarized and less prone to multipath. I have a 7775 amp in the house ahead of a four way tap. The SS-1000 however, doesn't have the gain of the 4228 (which I also have on the roof for DXing) So if signal strength is not your problem and multipath is, the SS-1000 might be a remedy.

Phil

No silly it's the wind.

Ok, that makes no sense. The two shows I was watching were both on at the same time, from the same tower, hitting the same antenna. The only difference was the frequency and the signal being fed to the tower.

Ok, that makes no sense. The two shows I was watching were both on at the same time, from the same tower, hitting the same antenna. The only difference was the frequency and the signal being fed to the tower.

Well, you've nailed part of the enigma - "The only difference was the frequency..."

You failed to mention that the two stations, beside transmitting at different frequencies, also have different Effective Radiated Power.

Put those two together and there are the major differences when trying to equate the quality of reception emanating from the same tower and being received by the same antenna.

Gary

Besides physics and meteorology, this seems a mathematics problem (actually geometry and calculus together).

Because the frequencies are different, the two channels would have a fixed but different number of wavelengths in the direct path.

And they would have a fixed but different number of wavelengths in any reflective path off a static reflector.

The receive antenna adds direct and reflected signals and ideally they add in-phase (constructively).

It is bad when they add out of phase (destructively) which is the condition known as multipath and prevents the DTV receiver from decoding the data stream even though there is plenty of signal strength.

Also, the size of the static reflector affects the magnitude of reflections at differing wavelengths, too.

So wind would cause flexible static reflectors (such as tree limbs or street signs) to move slightly, thus affecting that number of wavelengths in the reflected path.

Stations' strenghts add or subtract at your receive antenna (the intersection of direct and reflected signals) and this strength can and will change based upon magnitude and length of reflected path.

Your antenna could be at the in-phase point for one frequency but the out-of-phase point for the other frequency from one reflector (trees on hilltop) and vice versa for another (billboard or traffic sign somewhere down the road).

And wet surfaces reflect differently, too. No easy way to pin down the offending reflector.

That's why it's so important to use direction receiving antennae, located clear and high, to maximize the direct signal and minimize the reception of reflections, to eliminate or greatly diminish the effects of cancellations due to out of phase received signals.

Yes, but CBS which has the higher ERP was the one with the problem WB was coming is fine. My problem was with the wind explanation. If the wind was blowing the antenna out of alignment I'd expect to see across the board problems, no?

seems more likely the wind was blowing a reflector out of alignment (or perhaps into alignment) and affecting signal summations at your receive antenna by stretching (or shortening) the "reflected" path

and the size of that reflector, and length differences between the direct and reflected paths, would be frequency dependent and not necessarily affect all channels identically

so you shouldn't dismiss wind as causing dynamic multipath resulting in frequency specific signal interruptions

ok, now the explanation makes sense. "It's the wind silly" really wasn't enough info :o

So from what I'm reading a more directional antenna, rather than a yagi, may help reduce this affect? I never had this problem over the winter so I'm guessing that blooming trees are most likely the culprit.

George right on the money, next time I'll elaborate more to what point I'm trying to get across. Wind blowing elements is a legit reason why a fixed stationary antenna is causing you problems. Also your trees blocking your path with leaves blowing is a good reason as well.

I have the same problem. News, live sports and reruns. But new shows are in English. A couple weeks ago there were 2 versions 11.1, 11.2, and 11.3. One was English the other Spanish and 11.3 was The Tube. But now only 11.1 and 11.2 are present. So back to Spanish.

Thanks to everyone for the clarification.

Are NBC, CBS, ABC and WNET all broadcasting from the Empire State building? If so, the fact that I'm having difficulty with just WNET (61.5), would it be safe to assume that WNET's signal is just weaker than that of the others? (It does measures much lower at my end.) If the source location is the same for all these signals, can I rule out multi-path for my problem with WNET?

I currently live in Bergen County, NJ and I use an externally-mounted roof antenna (with a preamp).

Thanks again.

Les

WABC-DT, WCBS-DT, WNBC-DT, WWOR-DT, WPIX-DT and WNET-DT all transmit from the same antenna (Combiner) atop the Empire State Buidling. WNET-DT has the lowest power and the highest channel allocation.

Additionally, WNYW-DT also transmits from Empire State, but uses its own antenna - not a part of the Combiner project.

Gary

I was previously using a radioshack indoor double-bowtie antenna with an amplifier. During the winter, all was good. I was able to get great reception on all local OTA channel (being broadcast from the Empire State Building).

This spring, most channels were still good, but I was having problems with FOX...Prison Break would continuously drop out on me (although the commercials always played just fine :mad: )
WNET was also getting flakey on me.

I figured my issue was multipath interference, increased by the leaves, so I recently purchased a Terrestrial Digital SR-15 Uni-direction antenna. I am 12 miles from the transmitter, and the antenna has 11db of gain on it's own. I show full signal strength for CBS, but I am unable to recieve any broadcast. I show weak signal for FOX, but I recieve broadcasts just fine. I get nothing on WNET. All other channels are fine.

I have tried attenuating the signal, amplifing the signal, putting an FM trap on the line, and repostitioning the antenna to just about every possible position. Nothing is working. I assume that I am still getting multipath interference, especially on CBS. Is there anything else I can do to deal with this?

BTW...I never used to have an issue with CBS with the indoor antenna...it was always reliable. But after I installed the new yagi, I hooked the indoor antenna back up to troubleshoot, and even it won't pick up a broadcast on CBS, despite having a strong signal. Has anyone else been having an issue with CBS in the last 2 days? Perhaps there is an issue on their end?

Thanks to this forum, I've only recently learned the intricacies of OTA HD reception. And I also realize that I'm not the only person having problems receiving WNET. It's a pity because it's the station that I enjoy watching the most...

So, technically, multipath interference would affect a weaker a signal more so than a stronger one... which would explain why I'm not having any issues with the other stations being broadcast out of the Empire State Building. Aside from getting cable, is there anything else that I can try? NOTE: I already have a rooftop-mounted antenna with a preamp, pointed in the direction of the source.

(Just to clarify, I also did not have any problems during wintertime. The problem with WNET began all of a sudden around 3 weeks ago.)

Thanks again.

Les

Bergen County, NJ

Thanks to this forum, I've only recently learned the intricacies of OTA HD reception. And I also realize that I'm not the only person having problems receiving WNET. It's a pity because it's the station that I enjoy watching the most...
[...]


Am I the only one who's frustrated by the fact that WNET's analog programming is not mirrored on WNET-DT? I want to watch Masterpiece Theater, Mystery!, and Great Performances in HD, but WNET's HD programming bears only a passing resemblance to what shows up in newspaper TV listings.

Dave Kristol

Dave -

What is being passed off as WNET-DT's HD programming, in reality is PBS's HD feed.

Two different animals!

Gary

Thanks to everyone for the clarification.

Are NBC, CBS, ABC and WNET all broadcasting from the Empire State building? If so, the fact that I'm having difficulty with just WNET (61.5), would it be safe to assume that WNET's signal is just weaker than that of the others? (It does measures much lower at my end.) If the source location is the same for all these signals, can I rule out multi-path for my problem with WNET?

I currently live in Bergen County, NJ and I use an externally-mounted roof antenna (with a preamp).

Thanks again.

Les

Yes, WNET-DT Ch-61 is very much weaker than than the rest of the network stations.
For instance, WCBS-DT on Ch-56 transmitts with 349 KW, whereas WNET only uses 12.4 KW for their transmitter. I guess they are trying to save on
their electric bill.

wb

Speaking of Tranmitting Power, what is the Max limit on power, a UHF station can use to broadcast their signal? And for that matter what is the Max limit on VHF Lo and Hi?

Hi guys, I just moved to Clinton Hill Brooklyn, more specifically:

500 washington av
brooklyn 11238

with my little silver sensor and my dvico tuner card

I get about 2 to 3 channels, 2-1 wcbs, 5-1 wnyw, and 68-1 wfut. Antennaweb says that because I live in a multistory building with other multistory buildings around me that I need Red directional UHF/VHF.

What do you think it will take for me to get all or most of the following networks: UPN, PBS, WB, NBC, CBS, and ABC?

I'm on the corner of the second story of a 6 story building. I have windows on 2 walls, so it surprises me I don't much.

I'm new to this, do I need to put a fancy antenna on the roof of our apartment building?


I'm semi-close to u.. i'm in dumbo, there is alot of building going on here.. and i just lost my diriect view of the ESB - can't be more than a mile or two (directly).
I was using a silver sensor and it worked GREAT (when i could see the ESB) now i get NOTHING. *sigh*
I should have my Lacrosse-A Multi-Directional HDTV Antenna at the end of next week - should be be MASSIVE overkill ^_^
i'll update u on how well it does inside and outside.

your evaluation of the Lacrosse will be quite interesting.

A quick question for any of you guys: Does WLIW-21 broadcast only in digital or is ANY content also in HD? And if so, 720p or 1080i HD? That's it for now, thanks!

Unfortunately, WLIW-DT no longer broadcasts in HD!

Gary

Wow, that was fast! Thanks, that's actually good for me, because it's the only major channel I can't pick up with my trusty Silver Sensor from North Jersey (40 miles away). Hmm, while we're on it, since I'm using the highly directional Silver Sensor, when I point my antenna just south of due east to get all my locals, I DO NOT receive NJN from Montclair, NJ, even though it transmits from (literally) just down my road. The problem is that I'd have to point the antenna nearly due north to get that one channel. However, I get NJN out of New Brunswick, NJ (23 miles away) just fine. So my newbie question is whether or not the NJN from Montclair broadcasts anything different from the NJN in New Brunswick, or if it's exactly the same programming. Because if that's the case, then I'm not missing anything and don't have to worry. Thanks again!

there's only one NJN,so I'm sure the programming is identical.

Thanks! Just wondering, is there any HD content on NJN?

HD and SD with wide screen programming is on the air from 8 p.m. to Midnight.

All NJN stations use their fifth channel for this service. Therefore, from Montclair
it would be on over-the-air channel 51.5 - remapped on sets as channel 50.5.

Hope this helps.

Gary

There's not much worth watching on NJN HD. It's the same content, seven days in a row. Watch one time a week is enough.

Good, because for some reason today I can't pick it up anymore. My signal strengths can change over 10% in a day without my moving the antenna at all. I guess stuff like humidity and temperature really CAN make a difference, because the only difference between yesterday and today is that it was HOT today!

Is anyone aware of a change of some sort with analog PBS 13? I'm in central NJ, and all of a sudden I have to point my antenna almost due north to get it in worth anything, and previously I picked it up pointing northeast or even towards the east, as with all the other NY analog stations. As a matter of fact, it used to come in perfectly faced that way. None of my other reception has changed.

My concern is that this will screw up the TVGOS on my HD DVR (Sony DHG-HDD500) eventually.

Tom

Anyone else having dropouts on NBC-DT OTA?? The wife just summoned me to show me that 4-1 was pixelating on one of my setups....and then when I tuned into the OTHER HDTIVO which is hooked up to a different rooftop antenna, that one showed "Searching for Signal" on 4-1.

WTF ?!?!? :confused:

I got my Lacrosse today and had very big hopes for it. I live in Dumbo, brooklyn, 3 blocks from the east river - From my deck there is one building blocking my direct view to the ESB. My hope was that, from the deck, I could get the HD lub lub :)
Sadly, no. It was no better than user my silver sensor, or even a random FM antenna that comes with ones receiver (0-10% for CBS). So, no magic :(

I finally just put it on the roof - which i didn't want to. But I don't think testing here will be very useful to most as i can see the ESB from there (see pix).
something - odd.. is that even up there, i wasn't getting the best sig still i turned on the power to the amp. *shrug*

I'm using my HD10-250 HD tivo (i also have a sony HD100, dish6000, hipix, and some other random HD reviecers if ppl want me to test on any of them.

I just tested with the channels the HD10-250 *thinks* i should get (it doesn't scan -i think it would be worth me having one of the receivers that can scan to see what it sees)
i'm getting 2-*, 4-*,5-*,7-*(UPN9 is listed as 5-1), 11 WB, PBS 13, (no 21 or 25 (25 is odd as it is coming from 3-4 blocks away (i think) but the Lacrosse back is facing it)) , 31-*, (no 41-*, 48,49, (spanish stuff), 50 (WNJN), 54, 55, 58, 63,66,67) 68 -strong sig but it doesn't look like they have anything on.

If anyone wants me to test a channel or report sig strength ask :)

do you think it's good enought to keep,or will you be getting a refund?

Anyone else having dropouts on NBC-DT OTA?? The wife just summoned me to show me that 4-1 was pixelating on one of my setups....and then when I tuned into the OTHER HDTIVO which is hooked up to a different rooftop antenna, that one showed "Searching for Signal" on 4-1.

WTF ?!?!? :confused:

Last night there was significant tropospheric ducting going on. 4-1 had pixelation and 31 was replaced by another NBC station I believe from Connecticut. I usually could not get 57 (55-1) because of my distance but got it last night. I noticed the ducting usually happens the night before the weather is changing, in this case from dry sunny days to the downpour tonight.

Last night's PBS opera gala was a major disappointment. The sound was quite poor and out of sync (late) with the picture.

For an example of great sound on PBS hi def, try the Ramsey Lewis jazz series. It's currently on NJ public TV.

Last night's PBS opera gala was a major disappointment. The sound was quite poor and out of sync (late) with the picture.

For an example of great sound on PBS hi def, try the Ramsey Lewis jazz series. It's currently on NJ public TV.

I get my 13 HD from cable and I also notice an undue amount of times when the sound is not synced well.

do you think it's good enought to keep,or will you be getting a refund?


i'll keep it. It is much more suited to be outside than my SS. But, I'm getting the results i'd expect from any antenna with a direct line of site to the ESB. (it can't be more and a few miles away - even on a really cloudy day i can still see the building clearly)

Is work being done on the transmitter tonight? I get no signal OTA and nothing via Cablevision from WCBS-DT.

all the OTA channels seemed to go off around 12:35,happens a bit overnight,I guess they work on the transmitters sometimes.haven't been able to receive a steady signal on CBS-DT for weeks now.

all the OTA channels seemed to go off around 12:35,happens a bit overnight,I guess they work on the transmitters sometimes.haven't been able to receive a steady signal on CBS-DT for weeks now.

Interestingly, for a few days last week I kept trying to TIVO a show off of 13-1 OTA...and every night I'd check the damn "to do list" and see that the show didn't record because there was "no signal" on 13-1. Everytime I tried to record it it was a 2:30 am (or somewhere in that range) showing....and I know I always get a signal during the day/night...but I'm never "awake" to check the overnight signal/picture/availability.

:confused:

I'll have to check my Cable feed tonight to see if the other broadcast channels go off if WCBS-DT goes off again.
For some reason when WCBS-DT is not transmitting from Empire we get no feed via Cablevision but we still get the other broadcast channels.

WNYW-DT is broadcasting in 480i and the WWOR-DT sub channel is off :confused:

WNYW-DT is broadcasting in 480i and the WWOR-DT sub channel is off :confused:

I think they got a problem. There's no EPG either.

I knew something was wrong when the local ads and the 10pm News did not have the blurry edge enhanced video look.
I wonder if FOX5 knows how bad their 720p upconvert of Ch5 looks?

Even with the video resolution of 480i at 480x480 the video looks cleaner the the usual 720p upconvert.

I am in Northwest N.J. and having choppy video on HD channels . Examples would be last night's hockey game on NBC HD and the baseball game on YES HD with the Yankees and Cleveland .
Can anyone give me some insight as to why this is happening and if you experienced the same thing . It is almost like there are frames being dropped during the broadcast.
Thanks
Bob

Last night, I noticed two sub channels 25-2 and 25-3 from WNYE. 25-2 was showing city driving guide and 25-3 had a color check screen on.

from checking out WNYE 25-1(it used to be on 24-1),they seemed to have fixed their unstable frame rate problem,the video used to speed up and slow down in a very annoying way.

I live in Astoria, Queens, and have an antenna on the roof of my 4-story apt. bldg. It has good line of sight of the ESB.
I'd been getting good reception of all of the NYC HD stations (NJN is a no-go).
But a couple of weeks ago, I've started getting crummy reception of channel 13 (no signal) and channel 2 (very low). All of the other stations have had lower-than-normal signal strength, as well.
I ran a new cable to the roof, and repointed the antenna, but no improvement. I finally connected the antenna to a signal amplifier.....and voila, I'm back in business. WNET's signal strength peaks at about 48%, though.

EDIT: BTW, I use the Hughes HTL-HD DirecTV box.

My question is: Has something happened recently to bring the signal strength down?

Thanks!
CBA

I see that FOX 5 and WABC advertise their HD helicopters. Are these or any of the local newscasts broadcast OTA in HD?
TIA

I see that FOX 5 and WABC advertise their HD helicopters. Are these or any of the local newscasts broadcast OTA in HD?
TIA

What...are you kidding? Actually the broadcast is in HD but it's not fullscreen, so I'd say no. Others may argue otherwise.

All the local newscasts are broadcast as standard definition up-rezzed to an HD pillar box. WABC and WNYW then cut to the HD wide screen helicopter shots. These are normally highly scripted because the control rooms that handle the news broadcast can't handle the HD signal and the switch actually happens in Master Control.

All the local newscasts are broadcast as standard definition up-rezzed to an HD pillar box. WABC and WNYW then cut to the HD wide screen helicopter shots. These are normally highly scripted because the control rooms that handle the news broadcast can't handle the HD signal and the switch actually happens in Master Control.

Thanks for the reply ghostman. I don’t have OTA capabilities with my set up. I receive my signal via Time Warner Cable NYC. No part of our local newscasts, on TWC, are in HD.

I'm in the Hackettstown/Allamuchy NJ area...Warren County NJ.

Years ago I beat the odds my getting ALL analog locals from NYC and Philadephia with a HUGE Channel Master antenna with a pre-AMP. and rotar even though antenna web said no.

Question: Aside from terrrain difficulty, can I get the like HDTV signals?????

Again antenna web says "NO"...I don't trust antenna web for fringe areas.

I cant finge any Rice-Longely HDTV signal maps showing pocket reception areas...can anyone help?

Anyone else seeing guide data on their OTA receivers for 25-1 and 25-2? I can't seem to acquire a usable signal out here in NJ.

25-2 says "Traffic Cameras" on my onscreen guide...anyone seeing anything?

Anyone else seeing guide data on their OTA receivers for 25-1 and 25-2? I can't seem to acquire a usable signal out here in NJ.

25-2 says "Traffic Cameras" on my onscreen guide...anyone seeing anything?25 should be WNYE, which is owned by the New York City Government. I wouldn't count on seeing any HD content on that channel for the next several years, if ever.

25 should be WNYE, which is owned by the New York City Government. I wouldn't count on seeing any HD content on that channel for the next several years, if ever.


With all due respect, you are being very, very, very kind! :D

I can't get channel 24 (the physical channel for 25) where I am. It is a very low power transmitter as I remember. They are listed as carrying "City Drive Live" which sounds like traffic cams to me. As the others pointed out, this is the most I would expect this broadcaster to do with their digital transmitter for some time (carry multiple SD programs).

Help, please.

I've been reading this thread for weeks and can't find what I need so any help would be appreciated.

Can someone tell me whether or not I can expect to get good OTA reception for HD in the Village (near NYU) with a set top antenna? Or should I just get cable?

Any specific antenna suggestions?

Thanks.

You'll never know until you experiment.

I've been using a Silver Sensor indoor antenna.

Reception varies, this antenna is small and does pretty well.

You must "walk" in around your room to find the sweet spots for various channels.

Good Luck!

Thanks.

I'm in the Hackettstown/Allamuchy NJ area...Warren County NJ.

Years ago I beat the odds my getting ALL analog locals from NYC and Philadephia with a HUGE Channel Master antenna with a pre-AMP. and rotar even though antenna web said no.

Question: Aside from terrrain difficulty, can I get the like HDTV signals?????

Again antenna web says "NO"...I don't trust antenna web for fringe areas.

I cant finge any Rice-Longely HDTV signal maps showing pocket reception areas...can anyone help?

Do you have a UHF antenna and pre-amp? I'm in Rockaway and I can get all the NY HD locals with a CM antenna in my attic.

I'm in Jefferson. Can either of you get ch 9.

I'm in Jefferson. Can either of you get ch 9.

Yes. I can get all the locals over the air (2,4,5,7,9,11,13)

There are others I get as well such as Telemundo etc.

Great. What model CM and pre-amp.

Great. What model CM and pre-amp.


Channel Master model 4228 UFH 8 Bay antenna and CM 7775 pre-amp.

Great thanks.

Anyone else seeing guide data on their OTA receivers for 25-1 and 25-2? I can't seem to acquire a usable signal out here in NJ.

25-2 says "Traffic Cameras" on my onscreen guide...anyone seeing anything?

You can get WNYE in NJ?

I'm north of the GWB and can't get any signal using the Radio Shack Indoor VHF/UHF/HDTV Antenna with RF Remote Control.

I can tune in most other NYC stations except for WNET-DT and WPXN-DT.

You can get WNYE in NJ?

I'm north of the GWB and can't get any signal using the Radio Shack Indoor VHF/UHF/HDTV Antenna with RF Remote Control.

I can tune in most other NYC stations except for WNET-DT and WPXN-DT.

Not too well. I can get a lock but I suspect it's broadcast from a different site. High bandwidth streams have many errors. The lower bandwidth streams seem ok.

The vagueries of digital, UHF reception can include channel allocation, power and transmitter location.

Concerning some of the stations mentioned:

WNYE-DT - Channel 24 - 7.67kW - Brooklyn

WPXN-DT - Channel 30 - 100kW - Empire State Building

WNET-DT - Channel 61 -12.4kW - Empire State Building

Hope this helps.

Gary

NY tv market is ranked No.1.Number of stations broadcasting the news in HD-Zero.Numerous smaller markets are able to do it but not NY, and now in nearby Philadelphia the ABC station(WPVI) started news in HD.
Shouldn't NY lead not follow?

NY tv market is ranked No.1.Number of stations broadcasting the news in HD-Zero.Numerous smaller markets are able to do it but not NY, and now in nearby Philadelphia the ABC station(WPVI) started news in HD.
Shouldn't NY lead not follow?Just about all the commercial stations in NYC are O&O, which means our local stations don't get to make these decisions on their own.

But so is WPVI. It's owned by ABC/Disney.

So being an O&O is not the reason. No local station makes its own decisions. Rarely, if ever, will you find a truly locally owned television station in a major market. They have corporate owners who control the purse strings; and going HD for locally produced programming, especially news, is very expensive.

O&O-KABC-CH7 Los Angeles has been in HD since earlier this year.Yes,it is very expensive but if they can do it in LA,Seattle,Orlando,Raleigh,Philadelphia to name a few, they can do it in NY.

O&O-KABC-CH7 Los Angeles has been in HD since earlier this year.Yes,it is very expensive but if they can do it in LA,Seattle,Orlando,Raleigh,Philadelphia to name a few, they can do it in NY.Philly has a half-assed implementation. Only the studio shots and chopper are in HD. All the field reports are SD.

I would rather not have HD in NY unless the entire newscast is in HD. If that means waiting a few more months for a full HD newscast, then so be it.

Seems that WNET-DT (13.1, 13.2, 13.3) has a problem this morning? Anybody know if some maintenance is going on or if something else changed?

I get a strong signal but no video or audio from NJN's Montclair, NJ digital channel 51.

You can get WNYE in NJ?

I'm north of the GWB and can't get any signal using the Radio Shack Indoor VHF/UHF/HDTV Antenna with RF Remote Control.

I can tune in most other NYC stations except for WNET-DT and WPXN-DT.

I finally tuned past this channel last night and did receive programming on 25-1 and 25-2 last night. 25-1 was basically the analog 25 programming and 25-2 was the Traffic Cam channel. I wasn't expecting anything more than this...but the "City Drive Live" format on 25-2 was quite annoying as far as all the talking going on and scrolling information and what not. Almost like viewing a webpage loaded with info or watching one of the digital news/weather channels (i.e. 4-2 or 7-2). I guess I was just hoping to see some cycling between traffic cams...but there was infomercial type programming in there as well (about NYC stuff).

But, yes, out in Central NJ I did pick up this digital station last night. Hadn't checked the channel in a few days (probably since I originally posted about the channel).

What's going on with FOX? No signal at all since late last night.

What's going on with FOX? No signal at all since late last night.

Con Ed brown-out power issues at Empire. Back on now with generator power.

Looking for reception reports on DTV channel 18, broadcasting from Monclair NJ.
Analog channel is 63 which is at a different site than the DTV.

I'm watching FOX's broadcast of "Bringing Down the House" and the signal is overall good but has been a little intermittent. I figured the lack of signal yesterday was due to power issues. Today maybe theyr'e still straightening out any problems, FOX is usually the most reliable signal.

Are there any issues with the channel 9 signal (UHF 38)? Some of my tuners are not able to lock the signal. Specifically my HR10-250. Signal strength is 90%. My Sony TV can tune the signal.

The raw stream appears to only have the PID information but nothing else.

Is UPN 9 broadcasting? I haven't been able to pick up a signal on either of the WWOR digital channels (9-1, 9-2) for two or three days.

Is UPN 9 broadcasting? I haven't been able to pick up a signal on either of the WWOR digital channels (9-1, 9-2) for two or three days.

I am getting a clear signal here in Staten Island. Not sure it matters though with their sorry ass HD programming. You would think they could at least broadcast the few Yankee home games they have in HD since the games they air are produced by YES.

I am getting a clear signal here in Staten Island

I just did a scan for OTA channels with my HR10-250, and it seems 9, for whatever reason, is coming through on 38-3 and 38-4, but it's black on 9-1 and 9-2. I wonder if it's a problem with the channel mapping on the HR10-250?

. Not sure it matters though with their sorry ass HD programming. You would think they could at least broadcast the few Yankee home games they have in HD since the games they air are produced by YES.

I couldn't agree more. It pisses me off that they don't bring the Yankees games in HD. What's the point of that? What makes matters even worse for me is that DirecTV only carries some of the Yankees games in HD. I realise that it is mainly the home games that come in HD and a few of the road games, but there have been so many Yankees home games that YES show as 'Available in HD' that, for whatever reason DirecTV didn't carry. Argh! Anyhow, that's a topic for another thread.

Mon 8-7-2006

Hello to all....just to wanted to advise you on certain issues with WNJN- Dtv 51. First I am receving dtv signals via cm 3016 antenna connected to an aska 25 db amplifier (long cable
run, connecting 3 tv sets. Using samsung HLS 56" hd set. I have been noticing the past
couple of weeks off and on that WNJN "removes" the psip (protocol signal information packet) which disables the dtv tuner (either external or internal receiver) from receiving any audio or video. You will still see a good signal strength (here in seaford, long island i usually get around 83-88 via directv hr10-250 tivo. When the psip is inserted like today monday, you can view 50-1...50-3 and 50-4 (hd at night 50-5 8p-12a). They have been removing the psip data periodically during the past 2 weeks.


Also upn 9 change their channel map assignments to 38-1 & 38-2 (upn 9 & fox 5)......why
why do they always change these channel maps? also you can now view WMBC from newton, new jersey via uhf ch. 18 or channel mapped to 63-1....informercials...ethnic programming....receiving signal strength aroud 85 solid....good lock, no breakup....see ya...rolou21.

For the record.....I identified PSIP incorectly....it should be "Protocol Service Information Packet...I originally said "S" for signal which was wrong.......rolou21.

I posted this in the YES forum on the HDTV Programming side, maybe someone here would get through. Looks like a call to the My 9 station or programming manger is in order for us folks who want OTA HD coverage for our Yankees. The phone number is 212-452-3930. Hope this helps.

So what can be done about the improper channel mapping for UPN 9 on my HR10-250? Is this something that DirecTV will have to fix? I can watch it if I go to 38-3, but there's no guide/programming information there. All of that is still at 9-1 and 9-2, which are black.

Goldenboy.....it is not a directv problem because i also have a samsung t451 dtv receiver and it also shows upn-9 on 38-1/fox 5 on 38-2. it is just the way upn 9 channel maps their
channel assignment. i agree leave it like everyone else...9-1..9-2...rolou21

Goldenboy.....it is not a directv problem because i also have a samsung t451 dtv receiver and it also shows upn-9 on 38-1/fox 5 on 38-2. it is just the way upn 9 channel maps their
channel assignment. i agree leave it like everyone else...9-1..9-2...rolou21

I understand, but what about the guide/program information for 9? It's blank on 38-3/38-4, so how would that be fixed? Like I said before, the information shows up at 9-1/9-2, but it's useless there as the channels are black.

I understand, but what about the guide/program information for 9? It's blank on 38-3/38-4, so how would that be fixed? Like I said before, the information shows up at 9-1/9-2, but it's useless there as the channels are black.

Sorry for the problem! Fixed now.

dtv4u

I posted this in the YES forum on the HDTV Programming side, maybe someone here would get through. Looks like a call to the My 9 station or programming manger is in order for us folks who want OTA HD coverage for our Yankees. The phone number is 212-452-3930. Hope this helps.

thanks for the number. I'll call them.

What is the plan for the CW Network with regards to HD baseball? Are they still going to broadcast the Mets at home in HD and SD for all the Yankee games?

What is the plan for the CW Network with regards to HD baseball? Are they still going to broadcast the Mets at home in HD and SD for all the Yankee games?Those are not on UPN, WB, or the future CW network. They are NYC local games and I imagine channel 9 will still do the Yankees in SD and WPIX will still do the Mets in HD.

Oh. Are there still going to be 2 channels then; or 1 channel with 2 sources? I'm thinking in terms of a network going to their local affiliates. If that's the case the 2 teams would never be on at the same time, obviously.

Oh. Are there still going to be 2 channels then; or 1 channel with 2 sources? I'm thinking in terms of a network going to their local affiliates. If that's the case the 2 teams would never be on at the same time, obviously.Channel 11 will be a CW affiliate. Channel 9 will be an affiliate of the new "My Network". The baseball games have nothing to do with the networks. The local station (9 or 11) independently broadcast the games for the New York market only.

What OTA channel can I find WNBC-HD on?

WNBC-DT transmits on UHF channel 28.

Sets re-map this allocation to channel 4.1.

Gary

Speaking of WNBC, does anyone know the relative power of WNBC vs the other majors transmitting from the combiner? Funny thing is that since the combiner has been operational i haven't seen a change out here in northwest NJ - i get ABC & CBS OK but WNBC is still way too low to pull in...

Thanks
Tom

Channel 11 will be a CW affiliate. Channel 9 will be an affiliate of the new "My Network". The baseball games have nothing to do with the networks. The local station (9 or 11) independently broadcast the games for the New York market only.

Thanks for the info.

WNBC's power is the lowest among majors.

What amp besides a CM7777 would someone recommend to pull it in?

WNBC's power is the lowest among majors.

Please take into consideration that its channel allocation "is the lowest among the majors."


It's all relative!

Looking for reception reports on DTV channel 18, broadcasting from Monclair NJ.
Analog channel is 63 which is at a different site than the DTV.

Yeah, I am receiving the signal in the Bronx, NYC. Signal strength is a low 30, but there is no pixelation.

Programming appears to be just infomercials, how about adding a sub channel and putting on some interesting content.

Yeah, I am receiving the signal in the Bronx, NYC. Signal strength is a low 30, but there is no pixelation.

Programming appears to be just infomercials, how about adding a sub channel and putting on some interesting content.

There are 3 additional sub channels to be added in a couple of weeks. The control center for them is close to completion. Content is yet to be anounced, stay tuned. Most likely ethnic type programming.

Please take into consideration that its channel allocation "is the lowest among the majors."


It's all relative!

It's been my experience that NBC has the poorest reception of all the major NY locals with the exception of PBS (61).

Well, I live in the canyons of the upper Eastside of Manhattan, using a Silver Sensor indoor antenna, on the floor, some eight feet from a window, and WNBC-DT, consistently is the strongest, and therefore, the steadiest station I receive. Channel 61, also for me, is almost impossible to receive. It has the highest channel allocation and a pittance of power. Can't wait until it moves its digital signal to 13 when the analogue channel is turned off.

Go figure!

There are so many anomalies with digital UHF reception.

Well, I live in the canyons of the upper Eastside of Manhattan, using a Silver Sensor indoor antenna, on the floor, some eight feet from a window, and WNBC-DT, consistently is the strongest, and therefore, the steadiest station I receive. Channel 61, also for me, is almost impossible to receive. It has the highest channel allocation and a pittance of power. Can't wait until it moves its digital signal to 13 when the analogue channel is turned off.

Go figure!

There are so many anomalies with digital UHF reception.

I live in Maspeth, Queens with a clear line of sight to the ESB from my house, and the worst channel for me, besides WNET-DT, is WPIX (WB/CW). I get a lot of breaking up on that channel. NBC hardly gives me any trouble.

As for WNET-DT, all I need is a little rain to send it crazy. Even when the weather is perfect, I get relatively frequent drop-outs.

I finally tuned past this channel last night and did receive programming on 25-1 and 25-2 last night. 25-1 was basically the analog 25 programming and 25-2 was the Traffic Cam channel. I wasn't expecting anything more than this...but the "City Drive Live" format on 25-2 was quite annoying as far as all the talking going on and scrolling information and what not. Almost like viewing a webpage loaded with info or watching one of the digital news/weather channels (i.e. 4-2 or 7-2). I guess I was just hoping to see some cycling between traffic cams...but there was infomercial type programming in there as well (about NYC stuff).

But, yes, out in Central NJ I did pick up this digital station last night. Hadn't checked the channel in a few days (probably since I originally posted about the channel).

I was picking this up the other day here in central Nassau, but now I'm not getting a peep. Is the station still broadcasting?

I heard that NJN has been doing long term work on their Montclair, NJ transmitter causing the antenna to run at low or no power.

Cablevision switched to the feed from WNJB on the weekend.

Tonight I get no signal from Ch51 digital but Ch50 analog is on and I believe both come from the Montclair, NJ transmitter.

Well, I live in the canyons of the upper Eastside of Manhattan, using a Silver Sensor indoor antenna, on the floor, some eight feet from a window, and WNBC-DT, consistently is the strongest, and therefore, the steadiest station I receive. Channel 61, also for me, is almost impossible to receive. It has the highest channel allocation and a pittance of power. Can't wait until it moves its digital signal to 13 when the analogue channel is turned off.

Go figure!

There are so many anomalies with digital UHF reception.

I'm in Northern, NJ and WNET-DT and WNBC-DT are the hardest for me to tune in.

Yeah, I am receiving the signal in the Bronx, NYC. Signal strength is a low 30, but there is no pixelation.

Programming appears to be just infomercials, how about adding a sub channel and putting on some interesting content.

I can receive it on channal 18 clearly down in Jersey shore. However, my tuner (Samsung SIR-165) could not remember neither channel 18 nor channel 63-1. I need to manually select channel 18 or 63 every time. The tuner usually can remember the digital channels so I can use channel up and down to surf. Not in this case.

the Silver Sensor I picked up last week at the Rego Park CC for 25 bucks is working very well,although I still can't get the digital 13 or 21,the other stations have a very strong and stable signal.

You are not missing much with 21 since they have no HD content.

Loss of stations - Within the NYC NBC Channel 4 grouping, this morning my plasma is only recognizing the SD channel (4) as available or listed. Up until last night I was able to receive 4-1 (NBC HD), 4-2 (NBC weather now), 4-3 (NBC ??), 4-4 (NBC replays of various news, meet the press and other shows).

The plasma skipped over them and did not bring them to the screen. Then when I check my channel listings for adding/editing channels, these do not even appear as available or not.

I was getting them via a direct cable line into the plasma without a STB. I live in the Pt Jeff (Long Island) area with Cablevision as the souce of the signal

Anyone else experience something like this?

I'm still getting 4.1, 4.2 and 4.4 through Cablevision without a STB. I don't think I ever got 4.3.

4.3 hasn't been used.

just got a new tv and bought a RCA antenna this weekend from bestbuy. NBC rocks! even though the signal is around 53/100 its crystal clear with no pixelation. beach volleyball looked amazing! CBS is iffy, it has the same 53/100 but was getting some pixelation during saturdays football. didnt get any of the abc HD stuff though, or ch. 13 either.
will be bringing back the antenna and looking to pick up the silver sensor.

For WNBC-DT I get 4.1, 4.2 and 4.4 via OTA and QAM tuner connected to Cablevision.

I'm still getting 4.1, 4.2 and 4.4 through Cablevision without a STB. I don't think I ever got 4.3.


Thanks gpg, Gary Press, Icemannyr. Yes, 4.3 was a mix up on my part. I just mentally thought it was the next station inbetween 4.2 (weather) and 4.4 (repeat shows). I never received, it nor was it listed, nor available.

I found out what the problem was: While the stations (4.1 4.2 4.4) did NOT play when I moved the channel button through them, they were listed when I did a channel search to "Add/Change" channels. Even though it was listed as available & on, it would not work until I manually deleted and readded those particular channels. Those stations are now back in the memory of the plasma as added. Not sure why or how that happened to cause the problem in the first place.

Strange thing is that the HD station for ABC (7.1) disappeared from the available stations at the same time. However, 7.1 seemed to have been dropped completely from listing/availability for the past two days.

I was just wondering about channel 9/ WWOR. Currently their HD content is not available through Cablevision, only SD, in Westchester. If I want to watch it in HD I select the antenna as the input option on my tv. Is Channel 9 HD programming only available OTA or is it just Cablevision that does not carry them.

For some reason Cablevision does not carry channel 9 in HD

For some reason Cablevision does not carry channel 9 in HD

Comcast and Time Warner also don't carry WWOR-HD.

Comcast and Time Warner also don't carry WWOR-HD.

I guess we have our reason why they don't transmit the Yankees games in HD via any source. That or it might have something to do with FOX and the cable companies not coming to some sort of agreement.

BTW, do most of the people here have OTA and cable/satellite, or are they just strict OTA. I've got both here in Westchester, and only OTA in Fairfield County.

Okay, here's my problem. I just moved to Mt Holly, NJ (from Edison) and I'm a huge Giants fan. However I'm in Eagles Nation. Comcast here does not offer NYC channels at all. I'm about 75 miles from the Empire St Bldg. If I install an antenna on my roof do I have a realistic shot of picking up Fox broadcasts of the Giants?

Loss of stations - Within the NYC NBC Channel 4 grouping, this morning my plasma is only recognizing the SD channel (4) as available or listed. Up until last night I was able to receive 4-1 (NBC HD), 4-2 (NBC weather now), 4-3 (NBC ??), 4-4 (NBC replays of various news, meet the press and other shows).
(snip)
Anyone else experience something like this?

Yep. Haven't had NBC via the STB for a few weeks now. I suspect the signal output is lower now, and it's always been iffy reception. Seemed to be weather related.

All others in NY are OK.

Wayne

Yep. Haven't had NBC via the STB for a few weeks now. I suspect the signal output is lower now, and it's always been iffy reception. Seemed to be weather related.

All others in NY are OK.

Wayne

Thanks Wayne. However, since that original posting I have been able to receive the additional NBC group. I am NOT using an STB, instead I am directly connected. By doing a manual scan of the channels recently, i was able to have those stations back on and working.
:)

Okay, here's my problem. I just moved to Mt Holly, NJ (from Edison) and I'm a huge Giants fan. However I'm in Eagles Nation. Comcast here does not offer NYC channels at all. I'm about 75 miles from the Empire St Bldg. If I install an antenna on my roof do I have a realistic shot of picking up Fox broadcasts of the Giants?

This might help you figure it out. This is the link to the coverage map for FOX 5 Digital coverage area. FCC map of FOX 5 broadcast area (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=DT288174.html)

Sorry, that map is terribly outdated.

When WNYW-DT increased its power to 990kW, the station had to adopt a directional pattern for its signal to avoid interference with WMCN-DT, also transmitting on Channel 44, from Atlantic City, NJ.

Okay, here's my problem. I just moved to Mt Holly, NJ (from Edison) and I'm a huge Giants fan. However I'm in Eagles Nation. Comcast here does not offer NYC channels at all. I'm about 75 miles from the Empire St Bldg. If I install an antenna on my roof do I have a realistic shot of picking up Fox broadcasts of the Giants?

http://www.checkhd.com/aw/welcome.aspx

990kW Fox 5 service map (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=DT1028495.html) Sorry, that map is terribly outdated.

When WNYW-DT increased its power to 990kW, the station had to adopt a directional pattern for its signal to avoid interference with WMCN-DT, also transmitting on Channel 44, from Atlantic City, NJ.

Here's the one with the 990kW output. It's not clear from looking at the FCC site which is the current number, since it lists the 990kW as a modification to a construction permit.

WNYW FOX 5 coverage area (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=DT1028495.html)

It's been my experience that NBC has the poorest reception of all the major NY locals with the exception of PBS (61).

I live out in central Suffolk and just decided to try OTA HDTV as a science experiment, probably due to ATI dumping their ATI HDTV Wonder cards for $70, after rebates.

Anyway, i bought a stopgap RadioShack antenna today, putzed around and now can receive ABC, CBS, FOX, WLIW, etc. but no WNBC.

I played around with the antennaweb.org estimator and it reports that I can get WNBC-Dt in Uniondale but not Dix Hills (I used 2 previous addresses).

This ties into into other comments I've googled.

Can somebody please explain what the current state of WNBC-DT is?

Thanks!

Has anyone tried the Radio Shack 15-1892 antenna? I've read some good reviews, but haven't seen any from the NYC area. I'm in Brooklyn Heights on the first floor of a 5-story brownstone. If anyone has tried this antenna, I'd be very interested in hearing about your results, especially compared with other models you've tried (Terk, Silver Sensor, etc.).

Thanks!

here in Jamaica Queens,the 15-1892 didn't work at all,I actually got better results from a cheap bowtie antenna.
the terk hdtva was a piece of junk,couldn't even pick up one station!
all the various amplified rabbit ears with the uhf loop performed poorly as well.
the Silver Sensor is working VERY well,all stations come in with a strong and stable signal,unable to receive 13 and 21.

the terk hdtva was a piece of junk,couldn't even pick up one station!

In E Williamsburg, Bklyn on 1st flr of 5-story apt house the Terk HDTVi (unamplified version of HDTVa) works just great when pointed at a "sweet spot" in the corner of a room next to south-facing windows. It's pointing SW and the ESB is NW, so I guess I am getting a multi-path signal bouncing off another building.

BTW, has anyone else noticed a crazed, rogue "pixel" near the top center of the screen on WWOR-DT 9 (OTA)? It's been there for a few days. My HDTV is a CRT, so it's not my machine, plus it's only on that one channel.

TV Notebook
WNBC Goes HD
By Allison Romano Broadcasting & Cable 9/6/2006 9

NBC Universal-owned WNBC New York is set to become the first station in the country's top TV market to switch its local news to high-definition.

On Sept. 13, WNBC will begin producing 28 hours per week of news and local programs in HD, including its daily newscasts, movie review show Reel Talk and sports shows Mike'd Up and Gameday New York. So far, WNBC's studio cameras and helicopter camera have been switched to high-definition and the station says it will transition field cameras in the coming months.

WNBC is among only about a dozen stations nationwide that have converted to local HD production. Recently, ABC-owned WPVI Philadelphia went HD, making it the first station in the No. 4 maket broadcasting local news in high-def. Other NBC O&Os are expected to soon follow WNBC's path to HD.

"From our daily newscasts to breaking news to our commitment to the community, WNBC is evolving its unmatched local news coverage," WNBC's Senior VP, News, and Station Manager Dan Forman said in a statement. "Our foray into HD further enables WNBC to maintain its mission of covering the tri-state area like no one else."

http://www.broadcastingcable.com/index.asp?layout=articlePrint&articleID=CA6369114

Here's the press release that was issued by WNBC today:


PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WNBC TO BEGIN BROADCASTING NEWS AND
LOCAL PROGRAMMING IN HI-DEFINITION

First Local New York Station To Broadcast High-Definition Newscasts, Sept. 13

New York, NY—September 6, 2006—WNBC, NBC Universal's flagship station, will begin broadcasting 28 hours of newscasts and locally produced programming in high-definition (HD) beginning September 13, it was announced today by Frank Comerford, President and General Manager, WNBC.

"Since its first broadcast more than 65 years ago, WNBC has consistently led the way in delivering the most comprehensive news coverage and informative local programming from a dedicated team of on-air and behind-the-scenes professionals," said Comerford. "Being the first in New York to broadcast in high-definition marks a new era for the station; providing our team with the capabilities to best serve the needs of our viewers who will experience television that is richer than ever before."

WNBC's 28 hours of HD broadcasts will include regularly scheduled weekday and weekend morning and evening newscasts, as well as the locally produced studio programs "Reel Talk" (Saturdays 10-10:30 a.m.), "NewsForum" (Sundays 6:30-7 a.m.) and "Mike'd Up” (Sundays, 11:35 a.m.-12:05 a.m.). In addition, breaking news, studio-based specials and seasonal programming, such as "Gameday New York"—a weekly half-hour pre-game football show hosted by WNBC's Bruce Beck and New York Giants head coach Tom Coughlin (Sundays 8:30-9 a.m., Sept. 10 throughout the NFL season)—will air in HD. Coupled with the network, 72 total hours of HDTV a week will be broadcast on Channel 4.

WNBC's new, state-of-the-art HD facility boasts a newly completed control room which includes an HD switcher and audio console, a virtual monitor wall—comprised of ten screens which can display one to 130 different video feeds simultaneously—and also has the capability to control any studio located at 30 Rockefeller Center and vice versa. WNBC's studio, known as 6B, houses five robotically controlled SONY HD cameras and, the station's chopper camera is HD, and in the coming months, the station will be transitioning all field cameras to a wide-screen format.

The HD project was overseen by Comerford; Dan Forman, Senior Vice President News and Station Manager, WNBC; Matthew Braatz, Regional Vice President Technology, NBC TV Stations; Ken Wilkey, Senior Vice President, TV Stations Technology and Kathy Mosolino, Director of Operations, WNBC.

"From our daily newscasts to breaking news to our commitment to the community, WNBC is evolving its unmatched local news coverage," said Forman. "Our foray into HD further enables WNBC to maintain its mission of covering the tri-state area like no one else."

"Bolstering what viewers have come to expect from WNBC has been the driving force behind the transition to HD," said Braatz. "The ability for me and my hard-working team to be pioneers in delivering high-definition television to the New York marketplace will ultimately be a rewarding television experience for us all."

"HD provides the highest quality picture and sound affording more audience enthusiasm than traditional television," said Wilkey. "With its already established lead in the marketplace for delivering the best coverage of local news and events, WNBC has now notched the lead in delivering the best in technology to its viewers."

# # #

Here's the press release that was issued by WNBC today:


PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WNBC TO BEGIN BROADCASTING NEWS AND
LOCAL PROGRAMMING IN HI-DEFINITION

First Local New York Station To Broadcast High-Definition Newscasts, Sept. 13


Nice! I'm all tingly! I was hoping that this would happen around the same time that the Today show went live. Glad to see it is.

The wife always watched Ch4 news as it is/was....guess I'll be a viewer now as well :)

Ah, but now Rob Morrison will have to shave in the morning!

Now, if only they would increase power. Up where I am in northern Westchester, I can usually get 2-1, 5-1 and 7-1, but never 4-1. This would seem to be a good time to increase power. Don't know why they haven't yet.

FCC limitation. Any more power and interference would be created in WBRE's signal in Scranton, PA. WBRE is on channel 28 analog

I know the station (used to work there) and they're an NBC affiliate, actually out of Wilkes-Barre, PA, which is the same market. Anyway, all the more reason to protect them.

Even though digital will growing by leaps and bounds, especially once analogue is shut down in 2009, I doubt that the New York City stations will be investing a lot of money to update the Empire State Building facilities.

They know that eventaully, they will have to make a large investment when they move facilities downtown to the Freedom Tower.

I believe that the O-T-A usage figure for this market remains at less than 20% of all TV Households.

O-T-A from Empire State is not at the top of their lists!

Even though digital will growing by leaps and bounds, especially once analogue is shut down in 2009, I doubt that the New York City stations will be investing a lot of money to update the Empire State Building facilities.

They know that eventaully, they will have to make a large investment when they move facilities downtown to the Freedom Tower.

I believe that the O-T-A usage figure for this market remains at less than 20% of all TV Households.

O-T-A from Empire State is not at the top of their lists!

I can understand their perceived financial reasoning, but still!

I spent $25 for radioShack's finest UHF antenna and a decent amount of my own time, just to see if I could get FREE HDTV.

This is the 1st time I've had an interest in terrestrial brodcasting in decades, purely from the standpoint of FREE. I've been a Dish customer for almost 7 years, but too cheap to spend the oney for a HD DVR and the extra fees.

Anyway. after spending $25 for RadioShack's finest UHF antenna , and a decent amount of my own labor, low and behold, I am rcving FREE HDTV in central Suffolk. The only problem is that the only traditional network I'd really be interested in seeing in HD (NBC= Leno, Conan) is too cheap to invest in fixing HD transmission problems.

I'm assuming WNBC could do something to shape their emission patern to reduce interfernce in Scranton/W-B...

The FCC approved WNYW-DT increasing its power, but it had to use a directional pattern to avoid interfering with a station in Atlantic City, also on Channel 44.

WNYW-DT is not part of the Combiner atop the Empire State, while WNBC-DT is. This possibly could prevent your solution for the station using a directional signal.

The FCC approved WNYW-DT increasing its power, but it had to use a directional pattern to avoid interfering with a station in Atlantic City, also on Channel 44.

WNYW-DT is not part of the Combiner atop the Empire State, while WNBC-DT is. This possibly could prevent your solution for the station using a directional signal.


Good point, I'm not an RF engineer.

Still, this is a slight competitive advantage for them, the FREE HDTV aspect.

Has anybody gotten this in writing from WNBC, namely the ESB combiner- Scranton/WB situation?

I'm in Whitestone, (Queens), and have a Panasonic TH37PX50U Plasma. Right now I have a Terk HDTV-i sitting on top of my entertainment center. The top of the entertainment center is actually a little bit of a well, a couple of inches lower than the outer wood facing. I tried to set the thing up so it's in vertical orientation mode, but sitting on its side, so effectively horizontal, lol.

Anyway, I could never quite get all the stations I wanted at all times no matter which way I faced it. But here's a list of what I can get, depending upon orientation: (Note, I also get all the sub-stations of the primary digital stations of the list below)

2-1
4-1
5-1
7-1
9-1
11-1
13-1
21-1
23-1 (WMBC? Only receive sometimes)
25-1
29-1 (NJ-based religious channel with MANY sub-channels, lol)
31-1
41-1
47-1
50-1
68-1 (WFUT...never anything on it, but strong signal)

I'm going to be trying an antenna that claims to be effective at dealing with multipath issues. Will report back on its effectiveness.

I know the press release was about the local station and not the network, but I was still surprised to see no mention of the Today Show going HD. Not that I watch it, but I would have thought they'd have switched to HD by now considering Good Morning America has been HD for a while already.

The schedule to go HD is next week when Meredith joins.

See this news release:

http://www.tvpredictions.com/todayhdtv082106.htm

See this news release:

http://www.tvpredictions.com/todayhdtv082106.htm

Thanks. :)

With my Terk HDTVi in E Williamsburg, Bklyn, I can get only: 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 25 (breaks up a lot), 31 (don't wanna watch Green Acres & Mamas Family in prime time, thanks), 41 (Spanish; breaks up a lot), 53 (Spanish; very strong signal).

My Terk is horizontally oriented and rests on a small platform I have suspended from the cieling so that it points to an exact spot on the wall where reception is twice as good as anywhere else in the room.

With my Terk HDTVi in E Williamsburg, Bklyn, I can get only: 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 25 (breaks up a lot), 31 (don't wanna watch Green Acres & Mamas Family in prime time, thanks), 41 (Spanish; breaks up a lot), 53 (Spanish; very strong signal).

My Terk is horizontally oriented and rests on a small platform I have suspended from the cieling so that it points to an exact spot on the wall where reception is twice as good as anywhere else in the room.


Well, I'm sure you've got it oriented so you get the best reception on the most channels. But if you turned the thing, I'm sure you could pick up WLIW's signal (and lose other ones, lol). Agreed about 31. Waste of a signal.

I just won an auction for this funky indoor antenna from Winegard (.com). It's called the Sharpshooter 3000. It has multipath-elimination circuitry built in (powered antenna). See the faq here: http://www.winegard.com/offair/sharpshooter.htm

Gets some really good user reviews. This should sit in my entertainment center "well" up top nicely. Hope it works. It retails for about $80 or so, but some guy on Ebay has a bunch on auction, and I just got it for $31.

NEWS FLASH! Next weeks Yankees WWOR telecast will be in shown on WWOR-DT in HD.

NEWS FLASH! Next weeks Yankees WWOR telecast will be in shown on WWOR-DT in HD.

Very interesting. Also interesting the WWOR-DT is NOT featured on Time Warner Cable's HD tier. I get it OTA fine, but wondered why TWC is not adding it to their line up. They have NBC Universal HD in the normal 709 channel slot.

WWOR-DT and WNYW-DT (Channel 5) are both owned by Fox/Murdoch. They split up their DT sub channels. Channel 5-2 is WWOR (9) and Channel 9-2 is WNYW (5).

NEWS FLASH! Next weeks Yankees WWOR telecast will be in shown on WWOR-DT in HD.

It's about frickin' time. It only took them nearly 2 full seasons to do it. Could never understand the delay given the games are produced by YES. It will be interesting to see if this is only for the Red Sox telecast or will continue for the last home game telecast of the saeson vs. Toronto on 9/29.

Speaking of WWOR, did they change their signal format? Since Cablevision doesn't carry their HD, I use OTA to watch WWOR in HD in lower Westchester. I distinctly remember that my LG said it was 1080i, now it says it is 720p.

I would regularly watch their Thursday night shows & Friday Night Yankees, before Fashion House & Desire started this week, and remember seeing 1080i listed. Am I imagining this, or I just thought of this, maybe this is related to the previous post of the Friday Night Yankees finally being in HD. I think YES uses 720p for their HD. Does anyone know the answer to this one?

Speaking of WWOR, did they change their signal format? Since Cablevision doesn't carry their HD, I use OTA to watch WWOR in HD in lower Westchester. I distinctly remember that my LG said it was 1080i, now it says it is 720p.

I would regularly watch their Thursday night shows & Friday Night Yankees, before Fashion House & Desire started this week, and remember seeing 1080i listed. Am I imagining this, or I just thought of this, maybe this is related to the previous post of the Friday Night Yankees finally being in HD. I think YES uses 720p for their HD. Does anyone know the answer to this one?


I don't know what they used to broadcast before, but if they did go from 1080i to 720p, I'm thinking it could have something to do with being a My affiliate. We know that News Corp own My. We know from FOX, that they prefer to broadcast 720p. So perhaps, like FOX, My affiliates now have to broadcast in 720p? I'm just speculating here. :)

Cablevision is adding WWOR-DT this week. All of their NY DMA systems will have it by Thursday. I'm sure there is a relationship between that and MY 9 finally starting to show the Yankees in HD.

...I'm sure there is a relationship between that and MY 9 finally starting to show the Yankees in HD.

:eek: When did that happen? That is absolutely great news. When are they supposed to start? :) :cool:

Read back a few posts.

Read back a few posts.

:) Thanks. I must have missed my morning coffee or something to have missed that. :rolleyes: ;)