At these frequencys, signals will bounce off rain clouds.
GT

Originally posted by George Thompson
At these frequencys, signals will bounce off rain clouds.
GT

I want to preface this by stating that I love when you post because you are always bringing something of value, so I am not taking a shot...but...

Do you have to qualify that statement? There have been MANY times when rain clouds have killed my signal. I am by no means an expert, but I'm not sure what would make this time different than others.

On a similar note, The Hepburn index calls for today to be Fair for Tropo Ducting and tomorrow as Moderate. I may try to scan for some Philly channels.

by the way I thought I'd post my finding with RS Double Bow-Tie in window. I just moved so I can report two different sites.

Brooklyn , new york 11203
cbs 74 solid,
abc 94 solid
Fox 70 very unstable
UPN who knows, who cares?
40 - 22 what is this?

Brooklyn , new york 11220
cbs 88 solid,
abc - moved the weekend this went back on the air
Fox 80 some what stable
UPN who knows, who cares?
40 - 38 what is this?

Seldenpat, I was trying to avoid a dissertation on attenuation effects of moisture on rf propagation in free space. I could go to tables and give listings of moisture density vs frequency but I have neither the time nor inclination. Suffice it to say the ducting of signals at higher frequencies is facilitated by high moisture content of rain clouds.
We did simulation studies when going from C to Ku band for network distribution. Arbiet at higher frequencies but this is not tropospheric backscatter calculations for spread spectrum propagation of multipoint communications...lol.
I just tried to keep it simple.
GT
de WB9YRR

EDIT
It depends upon the attack angle of the rf. If it is going through the rain it will be attenuated one way, however, if the rain is less dense than the cloud cover, (some of) the rf will (tend) to bounce off the clouds and extend the useable signal in the usual deep fringe coverage area of the station.
Is that better?

I just called, left a message, the WB is dead no sign. here in s.brooklyn. anyone else?

john

Originally posted by Linux23
looks like the stuttering issue has cropped up again. it seems like every wednesday night, this issue repeats itself. i'm gonna check again in the morning, and if it's the same problem i will call Nick back and pinpoint why this keeps happening.

Originally posted by George Thompson
Seldenpat, I was trying to avoid a dissertation on attenuation effects of moisture on rf propagation in free space. I could go to tables and give listings of moisture density vs frequency but I have neither the time nor inclination. Suffice it to say the ducting of signals at higher frequencies is facilitated by high moisture content of rain clouds.
We did simulation studies when going from C to Ku band for network distribution. Arbiet at higher frequencies but this is not tropospheric backscatter calculations for spread spectrum propagation of multipoint communications...lol.
I just tried to keep it simple.
GT
de WB9YRR

EDIT
It depends upon the attack angle of the rf. If it is going through the rain it will be attenuated one way, however, if the rain is less dense than the cloud cover, (some of) the rf will (tend) to bounce off the clouds and extend the useable signal in the usual deep fringe coverage area of the station.
Is that better?

Your first point was well taken and your edit was appreciated as for what you would probably call "layman's terms".

Thank you for educating me (and probably a few others) today!:p

George,

I am confused by one thing.

I know that based on your analysis I am just outside the range of reception (East Islip), but from reading this site it appears that people further away than me are getting the signal. Does this mean that I am outside the range for reception with MY PRESENT antenna and would be ok with A LARGER antenna? Or is it that no matter what I do I would not get the signal until the combiner is done?

Perhaps I could pray for the proper raincloud density to get me just a hair bit more signal than i saw last night.

Antneye,
These are just predictions based on software that calculates signal strength and looks at 3d terrain maps. I would have to take a spectrum analyzer and signal strength meter out to an exact spot to see if there was enough of a signal to start with. Others may have a better antenna height than you do. Calculations show city grade, grade a and b then deep fringe areas. (Your results may vary).
It's all voodoo. RF is funny and does not always act as predicted. Bigger isn't necessarily better (for antennas). Higher is much better.
GT

Originally posted by George Thompson
...I have neither the time nor inclination...

Sounds like Nicholson in A Few Good Men. I believe the next line was, "I don't give a damn how much HD you think you're entitled to."

hahaha thats funny;)

j

Originally posted by RichYak
Sounds like Nicholson in A Few Good Men. I believe the next line was, "I don't give a damn how much HD you think you're entitled to."

7:56 PM Thursday and I'm getting 0 signal from WCBS DT. Anyone getting a signal out there?

7:59 update - KYW Philly is coming in fine.

R

No signal or picture OTA here on Long Island either. Hopefully it will be back for CSI.

No signal here either.

zero here in brooklyn.
now the e86 is all confused, on 2-1 its showing what i think is the analog signal, but its all fudged up, only staticky color bars.

when i go in n check the signal, its comin up zero.

why does this only happen on csi night?

K

Agree! CSI is my one don't miss show!

R

cbs-dt down her also, cable & ota

john

anybody hear anything about the disappearance of WCBS-DT?

Signals back, just in time!

the hd god is listening;)

j

Originally posted by kcn823
Signals back, just in time!

that was wierd. anybody know what happened?

They had a problem at the transmitter around 7:30 p.m. Engineering got on it, with the goal of having the signal back up by CSI time, and they made it. When I got my signal back, it was stronger and more solid than I've had it in a long time.

I'm still not getting WCBSDT (as of 12:45 am). Anyone know if they're swtill having transmission problems? It was coming in fine until tonight.

Try re-scanning.

Originally posted by Linux23
Yes, I already spoke to WPIX Engineering about this. They made some changes on Thursday of last week. Not sure if this will be fixed by Tomorrow Angel/Smallville.

Call WPIX Engineering and ask for Nick Doshie at 212-949-1100. Or try to speak with Rich or someone else in engineering.

When I call it seems like i'm the only one calling to complain. I can't do this alone guys, we need to all chip in.

Make sure you call if your having problems with their signal, please. Seemed ok earlier, while watching upconverts, but the prime time is hosed again!

can anyone tell me what going on lately with cbs and wb signal lately....i know that wb got problem lately but cbs seems like they lower the power...i got 60% signal off them....down from 90% couple days ago.
Fox and ABC are at 80% at this time and no problem...i just want to make sure before i turn my rooftop antenna again

The subject says it all. I appreciate that WB has been broadcasting to those with VHF antennas, but I'd sure love to see some of their shows in HD on their assigned UHF channel.

Unfortunately, my alternative--Philly--just doesn't have a strong enough signal for me to receive WB (and UPN is iffy).

With about 5% of the US audience in the NYC metro area (and most of them pretty well paid) it's hard to understand why NBC, WB, and UPN haven't done their best to get their antennas up.

Maybe they need to donate to the "dump Bloomberg" campaign to get the tower built where it belongs - on Governor's Island.

Just my humble opinion, of course. :D

Rick

Originally posted by andyng
can anyone tell me what going on lately with cbs and wb signal lately....i know that wb got problem lately but cbs seems like they lower the power...i got 60% signal off them....down from 90% couple days ago.
Fox and ABC are at 80% at this time and no problem...i just want to make sure before i turn my rooftop antenna again

I'm in Woodside, Queens and I had to re-orient my Radio Shack doublebow tie several times yesterday trying to lock onto CBS--at one point I was aiming it straight up into the sky, and it locked.

This morning, everything is rock solid, including WPIX....it's totally bizarre how atmospheric conditions affect OTA digital signals like that.

I can't imagine having a roof top and having to go up there every few days....:-)

Originally posted by John Chu
I'm in Woodside, Queens and I had to re-orient my Radio Shack doublebow tie several times yesterday trying to lock onto CBS--at one point I was aiming it straight up into the sky, and it locked.

This morning, everything is rock solid, including WPIX....it's totally bizarre how atmospheric conditions affect OTA digital signals like that.

I can't imagine having a roof top and having to go up there every few days....:-) I'm in Bayside and have similar experiences and am one who does go up on the roof from time to time.

Can anyone say with certainty whether the day-to-day changes we are putting up with are as a result of atmospheric conditions or are they engineering adjustments being made at the transmitters?

There is work going on at the ESB which could affect signal response especially during the weekend. In addition over the past week or so atmospheric conditions in our area have been favorable for tropospheric bending of signals.

Yesterday was one of the strongest days I have seen in a while my signals from New York City which are decent for the most part with the exception of WABC-DT, WPIX-DT, WNET-DT were all off the scale last night. Even the aforementioned problem signals come in great

This signal "bending" is great for long distance viewing but appears to have the reverse affect for those that are closer to ESB (I assume).

Is anyone having problems getting wabc-dt and wnyw-dt??? I am getting weird stuff this morning. CBS if fine, but I just picked up WNEP ABC out of Pennslyvania. Never got that one before. I think it's weird I am not getting my normal stations. WNYW had a little signal, but WABC had 0. Anyone else experiencing strange reception???


PS: I just got WPVI which is another Penn ABC station. What the heck is going on over here. No clue why I can't get my normal stuff....

Yes, I saw problems begin to appear late last night on WABC-DT and WNYW-DT. On WNWY-DT I also had only a blip of a signal and WABC-DT was really strange -- sometimes a strong, solid signal but pixelization; other times the signal dropped out. I'll be interested to hear whether these problems persist throughout the day, today.

can anyone check signal? i got abc, fox, wb out....no signal or in the low 10....only cbs got 50% ..
I just want to make sure before i head to the rooftop and check my antenna direction

Something going on. All I get is CBS and a bunch of PA stations... Hopefully its just somoene mucking around with transmitters or something....

I actually lost CBS for a short time and I had to rotate the antenna about 15-20 degrees from the normal position I use. Then the signal suddenly shot back to around 88 when I checked around 10:30 or 11 PM. Around 9:30 or so I completely lost FOX no matter where I seemed to rotate the antenna. I also had trouble with WTNH, but the signal was back up this morning....still not completely strong. Could the Winegard preamp unit on the antenna mast be malfunctioning or could all this be due to atmospheric ducting???

It looks like we are all having problems. Hopefully its nothing permant, keeping my fingers crossed for NBC tonight (not that there is any hd on it tonight, exept leno)...

Judging by the number of related posts, it must be something in the atmosphere. Either that, or at least one of the stations mentioned in these posts is doing some work that's interfering with the others.

Originally posted by s2silber
Yes, I saw problems begin to appear late last night on WABC-DT and WNYW-DT. On WNWY-DT I also had only a blip of a signal and WABC-DT was really strange -- sometimes a strong, solid signal but pixelization; other times the signal dropped out. I'll be interested to hear whether these problems persist throughout the day, today.

There's some strange stuff going down in the air since last night. The Philly stations were also hard to "lock" in on, even though the signal strength was quite good. for KYW (CBS) I was getting almost 100% signal, but at times the picture was black and my STB said No Signal. WB, ABC also dropped to almost nothing. The only good signals I was picking up last night was UPN, FOX, and PSB out of Philly. So since the NYC stations were exhibiting the same atmospheric disturbances, there must be some common thing going on. Anyone hear of more sun storms coming our way over the past week?

Has anyone considered the possibility of aliens from outer space?

Originally posted by Calabs
There's some strange stuff going down in the air since last night. The Philly stations were also hard to "lock" in on, even though the signal strength was quite good. for KYW (CBS) I was getting almost 100% signal, but at times the picture was black and my STB said No Signal. WB, ABC also dropped to almost nothing. The only good signals I was picking up last night was UPN, FOX, and PSB out of Philly. So since the NYC stations were exhibiting the same atmospheric disturbances, there must be some common thing going on. Anyone hear of more sun storms coming our way over the past week?

Here's a link to what I experienced last night via OTA. I posted it in the Central NJ forum:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2962904#post2962904

Reading a few above and below this post, you can see there were QUITE a few odd things going on "in the air" last night. But, like the rest of you, I'm waiting anxiously with baited breath for a certain Peacock to flip his switch tonight..... :D

Sounds like tropo again, last night was really bizarre I lost most of my Philly stations and started picking up stations from Massachusetts, Kingston, N.Y and the New York City digital stations were up down over and under with off the scale signal strengths when they were receivable.

Originally posted by jaypb
........................But, like the rest of you, I'm waiting anxiously with baited breath for a certain Peacock to flip his switch tonight..... :D

Don't you mean flip its TAIL??? :D

Well its supossed to get cloudy later today and rain this evening. Hopefully that will let things return to normal...Guess this what happens when you get some nice weather out of nowhere....

Originally posted by Calabs
Don't you mean flip its TAIL??? :D

It IS a male peacock isn't it?

:p

Just checked the tropo forecast folks looks like we could be in for another wild ride tonight.

http://www.globalserve.net/~hepburnw/tropo.html

Interesting website. Did you see in the guys background that he once got a TV station from Florida all the way up in Canada.....

Originally posted by wward
Just checked the tropo forecast folks looks like we could be in for another wild ride tonight.

http://www.globalserve.net/~hepburnw/tropo.html


This may sound like a dumb question, but which is the better reception days when it is the higher color numbers or the extreme pink ? In other words which is a better reception day 1 or 9+ ?

Thanks,

Scott

Not a stupid quiestion at all; the brighter the colors the more signal deflection occurs pink 9+ being the most extream.

Originally posted by wward
Sounds like tropo again, last night was really bizarre I lost most of my Philly stations and started picking up stations from Massachusetts, Kingston, N.Y

So I guess this is the same thing as "catching skip" (from my cb/ham radio days) CQ CQ CQ DX, WCBS New York, QRT and standing by...

I'm going with the aliens also, but im not sure they are from outer space. the could be lurking right here

F.U.

Originally posted by s2silber
Has anyone considered the possibility of aliens from outer space?

Chris

Yes that's correct. On another note I just heard that were transmitter and exciter problems at ESB which explains the drop outs and loss of signal over the weekend.

There is still some work to be done to remedy this so we may notice some of the same issues for the duration.

There appears to be a two fold situation here when WCBS-DT, WNYW-DT lowers or all together takes down their digital transmitters to fix these problems combined with the tropo some of us are able to receive other stations at incredible distances even digital stations.

Which may explain some of the other posts on this thread and other threads where people are stating that the long distance signals appears to come and go??

woohoo I am still getting 11-1 nbc from baltimore
my location: brentwood, ny

Since when have you begun receiving this? thanks

F.U.

Originally posted by chrome
woohoo I am still getting 11-1 nbc from baltimore
my location: brentwood, ny

I'm picking up WNBC-DT channel 4-1 on my LST-3100A! Can't wait to see Jay in HD!

Tony

How does it look? Damm, I am only getting 40% signal, not enough for it to tune in. I get 100% for ABC, CBS & FOX, I hope they are still tweaking it before tonight.....

The pic looks as good as the other ota ch upconverted stuff. They are not b'casting 5.1. Are there any hd shows on tonights line-up. I dont think titan tv reflects WNBC-DT in n.y. I have heard alot about jay leno's pic quality, looking forward to that. thanks

F.U.

getting it here in the bronx....(is there a prize for the first guy in bronx to receiver nbc???)....signal strength is 67%....audio is not 5.1....looking forward to tonight leno

Originally posted by andyng
getting it here in the bronx....(is there a prize for the first guy in bronx to receiver nbc???)....signal strength is 67%....audio is not 5.1....looking forward to tonight leno

Yes, It's NBC in HD.

Now for WOR-TV to get with the program. one day this thread will be a relic. we are the pioneers of HD :)

F.U.

We are so close, just imagine scrolling thru ch on any given night and HD prg after HD

OOPS..what I was gonna say all for FREE. The way tv should be.

57% in Massapequa. No breakups yet. Bring on the HD content!

About 72% for WNBC-DT in Northern Bergen County. No breakups, but they pixelate on motion about as much as channel 11. A work in progress.

Originally posted by Bryan1701HD
About 72% for WNBC-DT in Northern Bergen County. No breakups, but they pixelate on motion about as much as channel 11. A work in progress.

I get nothing just a couple of miles from you, but my setup sucks: attic antenna, cheap pre-amp, RG-59 cable and lots of it.

Originally posted by RichYak
I get nothing just a couple of miles from you, but my setup sucks: attic antenna, cheap pre-amp, RG-59 cable and lots of it.
I have a modest Rat Shack roof antenna, but no preamp. There's a decent line to midtown from here, but Woodcliff Lake might be at a higher elevation. An outside antenna makes a world of difference if you can do it.

Cbs 100%, Fox 100%, WB 50-60%, Ch.21 70-80% and now ... NBC 93-100%. All up here in Woodlawn (15 miles from midtown) with my channel master 4 bow tie Attic mounted antenna. All FREE HDTV !!! Can life get any better ??????? :D :D :D

Down near Freehold NJ. Getting 40-50 with a locked signal. Using a CM 4228 in the attic with an amp. ABC is 100, CBS is 85

Strange. I still get zip in East Hanover for NBC. And CSI Miami keeps dropping out on CBS. But I'm getting a perfect CBS feed from Philly!

In general are people getting alot of drop out on CBS and ABC tonight??? I have solid signals, at 100% on my FusionHDTV II card, but It is dropping out and studdering audio every 30 secs or so. Just want to rule out if its somehting funky with my computer,,,,

Originally posted by bs77
Cbs 100%, Fox 100%, WB 50-60%, Ch.21 70-80% and now ... NBC 93-100%. All up here in Woodlawn (15 miles from midtown) with my channel master 4 bow tie Attic mounted antenna. All FREE HDTV !!! Can life get any better ??????? :D :D :D

hey bs77...are you getting abc? i got cbs,fox,nbc,wb,wpix, all in upper 80....but i i lost abc...used to get it 80...i think i need to buy a new antenna

weather is wreaking some havoc with my reception, but i still get everything including ABC and NBC.

bs77, do you still have the cm 4228...i may want to get it from you...i can drive there tomorrow...send me an email or pm

Originally posted by andyng
bs77, do you still have the cm 4228...i may want to get it from you...i can drive there tomorrow...send me an email or pm
Sorry Andyng but I am now using the CM 4228 myself, (I took it apart to fit it in my attic opening) thats why I can get all the channels. I Highly recommend it to receive all the channels. It works much better than the 4 bow tie I was using before. I just rechecked at 5:45 am and CBS is 100%, FOX 100%, NBC 93-100%, ABC 93-100%, Ch 21 80%, and the WB 50%. Good luck....
PS It took a lot of tweaking to find this sweet spot but it is possible for you since you are only a couple miles away from me...

hey bs 77, i plan to put this one on my building roof...do you have to point this to a certain direction and what to do to find sweet pot...i can see ESB from the roof of my 6 floor building

I didn't get a chance to check on things this morning, running late as usual. Hopefully since it is cooling down the airwaves will clear up and I will be able to tune WNBC tonight. All my recordings last night had drops out like crazy. I had to watch all the Monday night CBS shows on my Tivo...

Originally posted by andyng
hey bs 77, i plan to put this one on my building roof.....sweet pot...

Hey andyng I think you are in the wrong forum ;) LOL!! just kidding.. I cant see manhattan from my house, Im blocked by the high trees of Woodlawn cementary so I couldnt tell you where the sweet spot is. I suggest you first try to lock 7.1 because that seems to be the hardest and then tweak from there for the other channels. My family wasnt home so the way I did it is I just kept tweaking away and changing channels from my attic with my RF remote control. I called my Home phone from my cell and then put the phone next to the tv. Then from the attic I listened on my cell as I tweaked away (my Hughes e86 has sound with the signal meter). It took a while but I found the sweet spot for all the channels. From what I have seen I think the signals are the most steady on the weekends, therefore I suggest you try it then. Good Luck....

i will go out and buy a cm 4228 today...lucky we got a cm dealer in the bronx...i already have the cm 7777 preamp so hope it will be set for the winter

hey bs77 , is the cm 4228 need a pole with drilled hole in it in order to attach together? from the pic of the antenna...it look like i need to buy a pole and drill hole. Or the antenna comes with the pole?

Nope it doesnt come with a pole, but it does come with the hardware to fit into, and clamp to a existing pole. I didnt use a pole, I just wedged it against my attic wall. I bought my antenna from Solid Signal. Who is the authorised dealer for Channel master in the Bronx ??

In my opinion a mast(pole) will help you guys get a better signal. I'm in brooklyn about 5 miles out and use a crappy terk 35 which I'm *told* is equivilent to a coat hanger and get 2,4,5sub9,7,11. goodluck

F.U.

What's the real channel number for WNBC ?

advTHANKSance

28

How is reception today? Are people still getting weird dropouts and lot of Tropo problems? Or did the atmosphere settle down?

Originally posted by bs77
Nope it doesnt come with a pole, but it does come with the hardware to fit into, and clamp to a existing pole. I didnt use a pole, I just wedged it against my attic wall. I bought my antenna from Solid Signal. Who is the authorised dealer for Channel master in the Bronx ??
i got both my cm 7777 and cm 4228 at the store...it's at 3210 whiteplain road...it's the only authorized dealer in the bronx for channelmaster...you can check cm website for the detail.

i got a question for you...i got the 4228 today..mount it up,,,,i tried to point it at ESB (..is there such a thing like pointing 4228... )...anyway..i think i can't find the sweet spot yet....when i got wpixdt...i have no blip for other channel....when i turned the panel slightly left...i got audio and video for cbs,fox, abc but not nbc...

you said that you can get all of chanel with 22.1 too so i think this can be done....i wonder it's because i had to add another 100 feet of rgb6 or so from the antenna made the signal strength this week.

any idea from you is useful

I am still kind of a novice to all of this. I really dont know why if you have a clear view of the ESB that you cant lock 2,4, & 7 in. I am only 3 exits up on the bronx river parkway from you and I am getting all 3 at 100%. The WB is at 40-50% and unwatchable for me to many breakups. Ch.21.1 is coming in at a steady 93%. It might be as you said the length of your coax cable. Mine is running at 30 feet and I also have a CM7777 amp. I have heard that over 100 feet you get a lot of signal drop off and as far as I understand you are saying you are now over 200 feet, this might just be too long. I remember in one of your earlier posts that you said had a silver sensor, try that again and see what you get. Other than that I dont think I can help you, You might want to seek other members opinions on this forum. If anyone else has insight on this matter please post to help out Andyng. Thanks and good luck

thanks for your help. I understand the situation that i am facing...since the roof is 4 floors above my apt. and the location of the antenna require me to run the cable along the edge of the roof ( my super is super keen about it)....i couldn't find any place that i can better locate my antenna....as for the antenna...i guess my expectation is too high for it...i expect to get everything at 100%...
on another side note, what kind of receiver you use...it use hu or p4 card

I still don't know why I can't pick up NBC. I get a 0 reading on the strength indicator. CBS, ABC, and ABC are coming in fine but not a peep out of NBC. I guess something is blocking the signal but I have no idea what it could be.

Rick

What antenna do you have? If it's indoor, did you try all the possible locations and orientations you could? I had success with my RS pointed up or southeast. Anything else, no signal.

I was curious as to what antenna you are using. Is it a rooftop? did you try elevating it, a taller mast may help. I also wanted to ask if you get ch 11/WB from N.Y.it's strang that you get CBS,ABC-DT w/no problems. In my view WNBC-DT seems just as strong as the others w/ a great 1080i pic. but again I am real close and a nice nitch where I have little obstruction. goodluck

F.U.

Originally posted by cpto
I still don't know why I can't pick up NBC. I get a 0 reading on the strength indicator. CBS, ABC, and ABC are coming in fine but not a peep out of NBC. I guess something is blocking the signal but I have no idea what it could be.

Rick

I have a CM 4228 on a 5-foot pole on the roof with preamp and rotor. I don't understand either why NBC shows zip signal, although CBS occasionally does that too. Even stranger, on rainy nights when I can't pick up WCBS I can usually get CBS out of Philly, which is a LOT further.

I'm thinking of having the antenna raised another 10 feet or so, but I'm a little worried about what the wind would do to it. Plus, I have no guarantee it would help anything.

Rick

I think you should try that even if you can rig it temorarily on a not so windy day just to see. You are getting other ch from here, maybe something is in your site so height would hopefully give you a better angle. I am watching Law & Order the pic quality is really good and the transmission seems strong. your equipment seems more than adequate for pete sake Im using a terk.your really not that far

F.U.

Maybe it's TOO strong. Maybe try a silver sensor, just out of curiousity. You can always return it.

just put up the 4228 on a 5ft pole on top of a 6 floor building. from the top of my building i can see ESB and other nearby building...using a pream 7777. the trick is to find the sweet spot....it may varies by a very small movement....i found the best position is facing ESB directly, move the antenna to the right side a 5 degree angle give the best signal strength...
now i get cbs,abc,fox,nbc, wb...all in good signal range...no drop out....
My signal can be better but due to the very long cable run (almost 200ft)...it's very acceptable now.

Good job. the big boys put them up high so why not you :)

F.U.

Originally posted by andyng
just put up the 4228 on a 5ft pole on top of a 6 floor building. from the top of my building i can see ESB and other nearby building...using a pream 7777. the trick is to find the sweet spot....it may varies by a very small movement....i found the best position is facing ESB directly, move the antenna to the right side a 5 degree angle give the best signal strength...
now i get cbs,abc,fox,nbc, wb...all in good signal range...no drop out....
My signal can be better but due to the very long cable run (almost 200ft)...it's very acceptable now.

Originally posted by andyng
just put up the 4228 on a 5ft pole on top of a 6 floor building. from the top of my building i can see ESB and other nearby building...using a pream 7777. the trick is to find the sweet spot....it may varies by a very small movement....i found the best position is facing ESB directly, move the antenna to the right side a 5 degree angle give the best signal strength...
now i get cbs,abc,fox,nbc, wb...all in good signal range...no drop out....
My signal can be better but due to the very long cable run (almost 200ft)...it's very acceptable now.

Good job! I am quite envious! I have the same equipment, just not the right location! WPIX and WNBC will be my Moby Dick! (somehow that doesn't sound right?)

Now that we have CBS, ABC and NBC on the air, does anyone have information about when we an expect PBS's WNET, Channel 13, to be broadcasting beyond its present weak signal to Newark?

i know that someone further up north can get 21.1..pbs....i tried but i couldn't get it without lossing other chanels..it's in a total different direction compared to other nyc stations

Andyng, I think im getting 21.1 because I have lots of trees near my home and maybe im getting a bounced signal. Trust me as long as you're getting 2,4,5,7,11 at watchable ranges you can live without 21.1 they show the same HD loop day after day after day after day....ZZZZZZ...:o

i know pbs show the loop now but after 12/8 they will have good program everyday...read in the hdtv programming forum..that's why i tried to get it

Originally posted by cpto
I have a CM 4228 on a 5-foot pole on the roof with preamp and rotor. I don't understand either why NBC shows zip signal, although CBS occasionally does that too. Even stranger, on rainy nights when I can't pick up WCBS I can usually get CBS out of Philly, which is a LOT further.

I'm thinking of having the antenna raised another 10 feet or so, but I'm a little worried about what the wind would do to it. Plus, I have no guarantee it would help anything.

Rick

I have two seperate CM4228's on rotors....feeding two separate HDTV's/STB's (Hughes E86's). One of them is higher than the other. Both are on rotors. I'll give you some examples of my reception progress from Philly, as that's where I turned to since NYC wasn't too hot OTA wise back in February when I started playing this game: :p

The "higher" one, is able to lock onto 64-1 out of Philly solidly. The "lower" one cannot do so reliably. The "higher" one can lock onto 29-1 out of Philly more frequently than the "lower" one can. The "lower" one can ALWAYS lock on 54-1 out of Philly, whereas the "higher" one can only do so occassionaly. Neither can lock onto 67-1 or 55-1 out of Philly too frequently if at all, while at different heights they both lock onto 26-1/43-1:5/32-1 all the time. During heavy tropo evenings, the "lower" one locks onto Baltimore/Maryland/Delmarva stations more frequently than the "higher" one. The "higher" one has a better chance of locking onto the Connecticut/LI stations than the "lower" one does on the same tropo evenings.

The antennas are about 65 feet apart mounted on the side of my house....and there are trees in both directions (Damn you multipath...:mad:) The "higher" one is only "higher" by about 3 feet or so. The "higher" one has a CM7775 pre-amp...the "lower" one a 6041DSB preamp.

My point is: From my experience, even the slightest bit of height changes things where fringe/low signal/tree interference problems are going to be an issue. Even the slightest bit of horizontal placement on a roofdeck will affect things....if it's a touch and go issue. If you have the time....and the inclination....move some stuff around. Raise it higher.

I have the CM9521a remote controlled rotor on both. I mounted the rotor at the end of a 5 foot length of masting....and then put another 5 foot length of masting into that....it's not the optimum condition/setup for this rotor (too much drag I'd guess when I rotate it)....but it's working for me. The "higher" antenna also has some guy wires attached to the rotor...and I'm planing on buying a bearing that will allow me to attach guy wires to the top mast....but I haven't gotten around to it yet. I'll probably lower the height when ALL the NYC stations go back online at full power (Whenever TF that is.....)

For now it works.

:D

Originally posted by cpto
I'm thinking of having the antenna raised another 10 feet or so, but I'm a little worried about what the wind would do to it. Plus, I have no guarantee it would help anything.

Rick

Height cures a lot of evils. You won't get a worse signal going higher. You only have to lose time, energy or some money. But, it may be just the thing you need. I couldn't pull in ABC from CT before ABC began transmitting again, went up about 10 feet and whola... a solid signal. The only side affect was that all other channels came in better! Give it a try. Good luck.

Best regards, Adam Okula.

I said this a year ago, give me my locals in digi and I would drop cv like a bad habit. We are in the capitol of the world, and PBS, UPN are not b'casting in the metro area. This is ridiculous, come on if your listening get with the program analog is the past step into the digital future. Dont be a johnny come lately, be competitive.

F.U.

feloniousmonkey, you might want to try a rescan of locals because I now suddenly get WLIW-dt. And I'm in West Orange NJ. You're a lot closer.

The mits is an amazing tv in my opinion, you dont have to re-scanif its there and receiving it will come up. Thats how I got the WB. but I'll try anything, re-scanned and no go. when WNBC-DT began I hit 28, tuner said renaming 4.01 and thats it. uh oh, you put a monkey:) on my back. Now I need to find a way to get it, 21-22 right? I am doomed(let see, another antenna facing opposite way, or maybe a rotor, beter yet an amp???) what do you think, huh,huh:)

F.U.

trekkerj told me how to get 11:

I used my radio shack rabbit years and put the V shaped antenna at its SHORTEST LENGTH. trekkerj used about 12" but I think that I have mine shorter. The best trick was to use tune in Channel 13 (Analog) and optimize the antenna for the best Channel 13 picture you can get. Now try to rescan for 11WB (VHF-12).

Before I did that, I had 0% on WB, now I can get a signal, albeit it rarely leaves the BAD zone on my Zenith SAT-520. I do get a highly noisy picture and studdard sound! Before I got nothing.

I live about 15 Miles from the ESB as the crow flies, so you milage may vary.

Also: I had to move the antenna to the attic, this may also help. A roof mount may also help.

blip~all locals lost sound, a high pitch whine is on all channels. anyone else experiencing this?

-F.U.

Originally posted by feloniousmonkey
all locals lost sound, a high pitch whine is on all channels. anyone else experiencing this? All channels good here. It would be unlikely for all channels to be having sound problems.

Thank you, I thought the same, but still have no audio ota, the high pitch whine went away and now there is a popping sound when i switch to each ch. I re-scanned, nothing. It started when the prez interupted for a special announcment.

-F.U.

Originally posted by Ed Barclay
All channels good here. It would be unlikely for all channels to be having sound problems.

blip~that was weird, as I posted lost audio on all channels, rescanned my mits, nadda. checked analog sign. ota which comes off the same antenna. audio was fine (scratched my head like the monkey that I am:) and reset the tv. it worked!

F.U.

Originally posted by feloniousmonkey
blip~ What does "blip~" mean? I thought it was a typo but you have used it twice in a row.

Error, my clipboard. Happy thanks :)

F.U.

Originally posted by Ed Barclay
What does "blip~" mean? I thought it was a typo but you have used it twice in a row.

So does anyone know when NBC will up their power? Here in New Hyde Park, which is only 30 min drive from the city, I'm getting a signal level of 5 out of 100, whereas cbs, fox, and abc are all above 80 for me.

A number of unrelated posts have been deleted.

Originally posted by festivalman
So does anyone know when NBC will up their power? Here in New Hyde Park, which is only 30 min drive from the city, I'm getting a signal level of 5 out of 100, whereas cbs, fox, and abc are all above 80 for me.

They're at full power now. I'm receiving it fine here in Roslyn so you may want to try repositioning your antenna. Otherwise you'll probably have to wait for the combiner in 2004.

Hmm.. so I take it they're not all coming from the ESB?

GE building not ESB. Lot's of reports in this thread...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=329368

Originally posted by Ken H
A number of unrelated posts have been deleted.

Guilty...I'll stay on track.

Seeing ABC-DT much stronger today. Anyone else getting the "raincloud" effect.

Guilty in the 1st, I will stick to the topic:) I noticed for the last few days the WB WPIX-DT has been real strong. No tiling, or drops. There will be some HD content on tonight I am hoping it will remain the same. I havent had a problem with any channels so far, they all seem great from here

F.U.

Originally posted by Ken H
A number of unrelated posts have been deleted.

I have been getting CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC and WLIW at 90-100% - Wpix is unwatchable for me, comes in at 40-50% but drops out every 2 seconds. (I have a attic installed CM4228 with a 7777 Pre-amp) But Evertime it Rains (such as it is right now) ABC and FOX's signal go on a crazy RollerCoaster up and down 10-100%. (Raley do I have a problem with CBS) I was going to drop the local channels on Directv but if this is going to happen everytime it rains then I must keep them. (I have a great signal on Directv, I only lose the signal when it really downpours). Hopefully this situation will improve in march when they all go to the ESB... I WANT MY FREE TV!!!!

What's going on with NBC-DT's signal tonight? Is it the rain? I'm getting a strong signal, about 60-70% on Samsung 165, but picture is very pixelated or no picture at all. Is anyone else having this?

The JT special is in sd,its supposed to be HD. SD material no drops or pixeling. All local that are transmitting look great not a stutter. come on WNBC-DT hit the switch:( anyone got a #?

F.U.

Note to festivalman:

I am also located in New Hyde Park and WNBC-DT comes in fairly strong. I would highly recommend that you have a rotor mounted on your antenna.

I've got one of these little radio shack antennas that's propped up next to the upstairs window where my home theater is. It took about 20 minutes to finally get it positioned correctly so that the other 3 major channels come in very strongly, so I dread moving it again to try and get NBC. :) Alas, I'm sure I'll mess with it anyway just to see what I'm missing. Renting an apartment and not being able to put up a big outdoor antenna is annoying at times.

Going off of WNBC for a second...

Anyone else having problems with WLIW (21.1)? I have great signal strength, but no picture on either of the subchannels. Has been this way since last night.

Originally posted by seldenpat
Anyone else having problems with WLIW (21.1)? I have great signal strength, but no picture on either of the subchannels. WLIW is good on both my Hipix and Dish 6000. What receiver do you have and have you tried a channel rescan?

Originally posted by Ed Barclay
WLIW is good on both my Hipix and Dish 6000. What receiver do you have and have you tried a channel rescan?

Thanks, Ed.

I have a Sony HD200 and the integrated tuner on my Sony KDP-65XBR2. Same thing with both. Locked signal, no Audio or Video. I'll try a re-scan.

I have WLIW again. Just came back on. Same signal strength as before, I just have Audio and Video now.

I dont get WLIW, I wish I could I like PBS. For now CV gets my doe. I have heard we wont get PBS (in the metro area) till they actually b'cast in NYC. The WB which I do get has a Christina Aguilera Stripped in London tonight, I think its a re-peat not sure but does anyone have info. that it *could* be in HD? thank you

f

Originally posted by feloniousmonkey
I dont get WLIW, I wish I could I like PBS. For now CV gets my doe. I have heard we wont get PBS (in the metro area) till they actually b'cast in NYC. Maybe Cablevision is different in your area but I get PBS HD on Long Island Cablevision. Channel 713 is WNET-DT with the same HD programming that is on WLIW-DT OTA.

Thanks Ed, but it was the FREE OTA I was speaking of. I am sorry I wasn't more specific. I give CV my money b'cause I want PBS, of course MSG*FS-HD for me. If I could get PBS FREE OTA 1 more reason to loose CV if the pickins get slim:).

f

Well, after being told I should have very good reception, I return from New Jersey. Time for a reception report from Fair Lawn on my Zenith HDV420 w/ a Zenith Silver Sensor and a CM7777. Remember that Normal (abbreviated NRML) is required for a picture/sound, and that is between 33%-66% signal. Good is above that and bad is below it.
56 CBS WCBS-DT GOOD (few breakups)
28 NBC WNBC-DT NRML (but only for a few minutes)
44 FOX WNYW-DT GOOD (few breakups)
45 ABC WABC-DT GOOD (few breakups)
12 TWB WPIX-DT BAD- (Got it up to about 10%, but jumped to 30% every so often... probably multipath)
61 PBS WNET-DT NONE
30 PAX WPXN-DT NONE
40 UNI WXTV-DT NRML (but only for a few seconds)
51 PBS WNJN-DT BAD- (It would go up to about 10% and then jump to GOOD for a second... methinks it was multipath)
27 TBN WTBY-DT NONE
48 INF WRNN-DT BAD- (Got to about 15%)
29 REL WFME-DT BAD- (Barely got above zero)
53 TFT WFUT-DT BAD- (Got to about 30%)

At my cousins house they actually HAVE an HDTV, and the only channel I could get at all was WCBS-DT and it was breaking up horribly. Plus their Sony HDTV wouldn't allow a manual focus so it was way the heck off.

I also used my digital tuner on the road and took screenshots, but that's not for here, although I almost locked WNJT-DT on I-78.

- Trip
Bitstream Admin

I find that odd since I am in hawethorne, but get fairly good signals on some of those channels that you got bad signals from, but at the same token I can't pick up wpix at all.

I havent touched my antenna in 2 years. I receive CBS,NBC, ABC, FOX, UPN (analog) WB DT

F

Originally posted by John Chu


I can't imagine having a roof top and having to go up there every few days....:-)

To the guy who mentioned that he's getting good NBC reception in New Hyde Park, I seem to be out of luck. I went all out in terms of putting my antenna in all different positions, including holding it out the window with my arm. Even though I was getting 90% on cbs/abc/fox, and now even 50-60 on wliw which i wasn't getting at all up until then, nbc never once went above 5%. An almost totally dead signal. I tried it on 28.1, 2 and 3 subchannels.. never above 5%. Not sure what the deal is.

Does anyone know the power with which the local stations are broadcasting? If so, could you post it.

I have the most trouble with WCBS but I thought it had the most power. If it does, can I conclude that the problem is with interference from bouncing signals? Sometimes I can actually improve the reception by cutting power to the antenna amplifier.

Are any PBS-DT in the NY area broadcasting 24/7?

I'd like to try to get some of the PBS stations in my area (Morris Cty, NJ). Before I start playing with the rotor I want to be sure they are broadcasting at the time. Stations in my area include:

WNETD PBS 13-1-2 (may not be live)
WLIWD PSB 21-1-2
WNYED PBS 25-1-2-3 (may not be live)
WEDWD ? 49-1-2-3-4
WNJND PBS 51-1-2-3-4-5
WLNYD ? 55-1
WFTYD ? 67-1

Does anyone have any information on these as well as any others besides 2-4-5-7-9-11?

Thanks,

Steve

MLM

WCBS-DT is at full power considering that you are located in the NYC area you may need to turn down the gain on the pre-amp to pick it up.

sjf99

WLIW-DT PBS 21-1-2 Operates 24 /7
WNET-DT PBS 13-1-2 Operates 24/7 at very low power 125 watts
WNJN-DT PBS 51-1-2-3-4-5 Operates 24/7 at full power

Also check out WNJU-DT 43-1,2,3,4

Is anyone on the west side of midtown manhattan receiving ANY pbs station and /or wb? If so, tell me how your doing it....please :).

i currently have ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC and UPN. would love to complete the package with a pbs.

Thanks
Joe

SJF aside from the PBS stations, what else do you get and with what equipment. I'm in Randolph and I can only get 2.1, 5.1, 5.2 and 7.1. WHat about you??

Thanks

Doug

Does anyone in Manhattan use indoor antennas? I live on East 30th off 1st ave, and have an unobstructed path (north exposure) to the ESB. Would I be able to get any channels without using a roof antennae?

Can anyone recommend a good preamp? Like alot of members, NBC-DT is the weakest signal although I have been receiving it with minimal breakups. ABC-DT is a little stronger 4-5 bars on my SAmsung 161 and CS with 9-10 is strongest. I'm in Roslyn Heights off exit 28 of the NSP.

Originally posted by Paperboy2003
SJF aside from the PBS stations, what else do you get and with what equipment. I'm in Randolph and I can only get 2.1, 5.1, 5.2 and 7.1. WHat about you??

Thanks

Doug

Doug,

I get:
2-1
4-1
5-1
5-2 (9)
7-1
11-1
53-1
29-1

I have to work on WLIW-DT

I have the following equipment:
CM 4228 - Attic mounted (for UHF)
RS VU-90 XR Antenna (for VHF & FM)
CM 7777 Pre amp (powered by one of my DTV receivers)
CM 9521A Rotor
Hughes HTL-HD receiver (recently replaced the RCA DTC-100)

HTH

Steve

Originally posted by clsgman
Can anyone recommend a good preamp? Channel Master 7775 for UHF only. The model 7777 adds VHF capability if needed.

Originally posted by sjf99
Doug,

I get:
2-1
4-1
5-1
5-2 (9)
7-1
11-1
53-1
29-1

I have to work on WLIW-DT

I have the following equipment:
CM 4228 - Attic mounted (for UHF)
RS VU-90 XR Antenna (for VHF & FM)
CM 7777 Pre amp (powered by one of my DTV receivers)
CM 9521A Rotor
Hughes HTL-HD receiver (recently replaced the RCA DTC-100)

HTH

Steve

Steve -
I assume that in order to get 53 and 29, you need to turn your rotor toward Philly? How can you pick up 11-1 from where you are?

Try it, you cant loose. Radio Shack will give you your money back :) good luck, Let us know.

f

Originally posted by Mattdoc
Does anyone in Manhattan use indoor antennas? I live on East 30th off 1st ave, and have an unobstructed path (north exposure) to the ESB. Would I be able to get any channels without using a roof antennae?

Originally posted by sjf99
Doug,

I get:
2-1
4-1
5-1
5-2 (9)
7-1
11-1
53-1
29-1

I have to work on WLIW-DT

I have the following equipment:
CM 4228 - Attic mounted (for UHF)
RS VU-90 XR Antenna (for VHF & FM)
CM 7777 Pre amp (powered by one of my DTV receivers)
CM 9521A Rotor
Hughes HTL-HD receiver (recently replaced the RCA DTC-100)

HTH

Steve

Are you getting 4 and 11 without drop outs? It's hard to believe, but a testament to the CM4228 that you get all those stations with an attic mounted antennae. I have a (crappy) turk, but it's on top of two masts on top of my house! All told, it's got to be around 900 feet asl!

I am pretty much screwed where I am. I only get the WPIX channels, that's it. Analog channels come in really really poorly. I refuse to pay $50 for cable that I hardly ever watch.

I have the following:
Samsung SIR-T165
CM Stealthtenna & amp upgrade.

...but unfortunately I face north in on the 10th floor of an apt high-rise. My CM is out on the patio and facing west but I can't face it SW (towards ESB) as the building is in the way.

Maybe it is my setup, I dunno, but I get one piss-poor channel.

Try different orientations and try to pick up multipath off another building, or try a simple indoor antenna pointed in the proper direction.

I have tried just about every orientation that I could think of that made sense. It doesn't really help.

However, made if I tried a UHF only antenna that would work better, or an indoor pointed in the right direction. I think I will purchase a couple of rat shack ant's and give them a try and take back what doesn't work.

Is anyone else having this problem? As of 11:25 PM, I am not receiving any signal from wnbc-dt (4-1).

TAKKL,

I just tried; no signal either.

Alan, thanks for the reply. Missing Jay in HD, gotten used to it already.

Originally posted by Paperboy2003
Are you getting 4 and 11 without drop outs? It's hard to believe, but a testament to the CM4228 that you get all those stations with an attic mounted antennae. I have a (crappy) turk, but it's on top of two masts on top of my house! All told, it's got to be around 900 feet asl!

No drop outs at all with the HTL-HD. I did get many with the DTC-100 however. I'm getting 11 with the radio shack antenna since the 4228 doesn't pick up VHF. Believe it or not, I just have it sort of propped up on the floor of the attic aimed in a way that gives me the best signal.

I borrowed a GPS from a guy at work. I'm going to try to get my coordinates to see exactly where I am and to set the rotor up as close as possible to a real NSEW direction. It was just too cold tonight to play with it. I have 2 different compasses and they don't appear to be too accurate. I wonder if I have to add 13 degree to the reading on the analog compass (???).

WPIX-DT signal between 0 and 50% tonight, jumping back and forth. It's basically unwatchable. Also noticed that when this happens, WNET (13-0, non-digital) is very snowy. It must be interference. What the heck is WPIX doing wrong? Anyone notice this?

I am watching "ANGEL" right now in 5.1 it looks great. No drops or pixeling. Excellent! I just need WOR-DT & PBS :)

F

Originally posted by sjf99
No drop outs at all with the HTL-HD. I did get many with the DTC-100 however. I'm getting 11 with the radio shack antenna since the 4228 doesn't pick up VHF. Believe it or not, I just have it sort of propped up on the floor of the attic aimed in a way that gives me the best signal.

Hi Steve,

I've taken great interest in your last few messages, since I too live in Rockaway (Townsquare Village). Although I've been into home theater for a while, I'm new to HDTV. Indeed, I will be getting my first HDTV receiver when the Dish Network 921 Receiver becomes available in the next few weeks. The receiver also allows for OTA reception via an antenna, which I'll need for most of the local stations.

I am inclined to educate myself about the same equipment that you have successfully installed, and do a similar setup in my attic, connected to my 921.

At the same time, I want to investigate the possibility of a roof mounted antenna. I need to get a copy of, and look closely at, my association by-laws (which do allow for the little dishes), and make a decision about whether its worth it or necessary to fight over. (I am aware of the FCC regulations which should preempt most restrictive covenants).

I'm interested in your (and anyone else's) take on the roof vs. attic decision; whether you have any dissatisfaction with the attic setup; what the difference in price would be for an antenna that would be adequate for my roof, i.e., cheaper or more expensive than an attic setup; and what size the roof antenna would need to be.

Thanks in advance for any insight anyone can provide!

P.S. Apologies if this is going off-topic.

feloniousmonkey,
What signal strength were you getting? When it's working correctly, I get about 70%, but now it's down to ZERO. I'm also in Brooklyn, at 11218.

I've switched from roof antenna to silver sensor and still the same results. The roof antenna is a great for vhf. I know the silver sensor is for uhf, but it still picks up a decent vhf signal. With it, I can still pickup analog signal from channel 7 and up. Does anyone know if WPIX is doing something?

feloniousmonkey, forgot to add, how's your channel 13 reception? Mine is almost pure snow, color comes in and out.

Takkl, I'm in 23, I receive 2,4,5 sub 9, 7 11 & subs. I dont get 13(PBS) or 21 22, they are at little or no power for the metro-NYC are. If you can go with a roof antenna go with that. If condition is right and you dont have any major obstructions use a 6' mast I'd go as high as you can safely go and use a dual band antenna uhf/vhf. You should get the ch I receive. But remember I have little obstruction and use a reg. terk or turk whatever its called 35 antenna. It works, I'll upgrade when it doesn't. Good luck.

f

I'm in Rockaway, NJ (30 miles ATCF from the ESB and Conde Nast building). With my Attenna pointed at 85 degrees east, I'm just starting to get WLIW-DT with barely any audio and a very pixilated picture. I think they broadcast out of Garden City.

Is anyone able to pull in a watchable picture from this station?

Thanks,

Steve

Originally posted by MichaelN
Hi Steve,

I've taken great interest in your last few messages, since I too live in Rockaway (Townsquare Village). Although I've been into home theater for a while, I'm new to HDTV. Indeed, I will be getting my first HDTV receiver when the Dish Network 921 Receiver becomes available in the next few weeks. The receiver also allows for OTA reception via an antenna, which I'll need for most of the local stations.

I am inclined to educate myself about the same equipment that you have successfully installed, and do a similar setup in my attic, connected to my 921.

At the same time, I want to investigate the possibility of a roof mounted antenna. I need to get a copy of, and look closely at, my association by-laws (which do allow for the little dishes), and make a decision about whether its worth it or necessary to fight over. (I am aware of the FCC regulations which should preempt most restrictive covenants).

I'm interested in your (and anyone else's) take on the roof vs. attic decision; whether you have any dissatisfaction with the attic setup; what the difference in price would be for an antenna that would be adequate for my roof, i.e., cheaper or more expensive than an attic setup; and what size the roof antenna would need to be.

Thanks in advance for any insight anyone can provide!

P.S. Apologies if this is going off-topic.

Michael,

My decision to mount the antenna in the attic was purely cosmetic. With 2 dishes on my roof, it's starting to look like NASA. So far I'm happy with the performance although there are some channels that I'm just missing. I think with a little tweaking, I may be able to get some more.

Steve

From Morris Plains, I get 21-1 and 21-2 with no breakups with a RS double BT.

Originally posted by trekkerj
From Morris Plains, I get 21-1 and 21-2 with no breakups with a RS double BT.

Thanks Trekkerj!

So at least there's hope. Are you using the 7777 when you watch those channels?

What's your elevation again? I'm at 690' asl.

Steve

My elevation is about the same. I remember seeing a topographic map somewhere on the net, but I can't remember where. So I'm a little closer east, but not that much. I have the 7777, that works fine. Mostly, I am using a cheap $2.00 amplifier that does cable tv, uhf, vhf, and fm. It does the same job and is only one part and therefore need fewer cables. Works great for WLIW, WABC, and WNBC as well.

is anyone getting WNBC right now? do they broadcast 24/7?

Yes right now & 24/7

f

Is CBS down? I get a lock but no picture. It's also gone on CV ch 702.

yeah cbs is out for me to on cv and ota here in brooklyn

Originally posted by trekkerj
Is CBS down? I get a lock but no picture. It's also gone on CV ch 702.


It is off here, too. On iO channel 702 and OTA. They are probably having a problem with the transmitter. Maybe due to the snow.

Scott

CBS is definately down, for whatever reason. good thing i was home early today or I would have missed Joan of Arcadia.

Its up here as of 20 min. ago. The WB went down, a Galaxy tv screen saver came up with a 1-818#. behind the # there was one of those calibration screens. I called the #, they where in caly LA.The engineer said 15 min. we will be back up. they where:)

f

I'm still not getting WCBSDT here in NNJ (near Edgewater) as of 5:20 pm. All my other channels are coming in fine. I tried rescanning the digital channels and moving my antenna around, but still nothing. Is everyone else getting WCBSDT?

Originally posted by robgold
I'm still not getting WCBSDT here in NNJ (near Edgewater) as of 5:20 pm. All my other channels are coming in fine. I tried rescanning the digital channels and moving my antenna around, but still nothing. Is everyone else getting WCBSDT?

They're live

Originally posted by robgold
I'm still not getting WCBSDT here in NNJ (near Edgewater) as of 5:20 pm. All my other channels are coming in fine. I tried rescanning the digital channels and moving my antenna around, but still nothing. Is everyone else getting WCBSDT?

Coming in clear in this part of NJ.

Something is up here, my mits receiver has detected 13.01(PBS). There is NO pic but the virtual ID comes up. Can something be good on the horizon? Another OTA HD ch just in time for X-Mas:)-anyone else seeing this?

I doubt they did anything to make the signal stronger. Probably just the clouds / snow having an atmospheric effect on the signal. A week or so back it was really rainy out one day and I was getting tons of philly stations. It seems that clouds help to bounce around the rf signals.....

ahh, but keep in mind, this never happened, clouds,storms, tropo, what have you. I always check for PBS-I'm compulsive like that. I have lost ch's during adverse weather conditions, but never in 2 years gained one. Time will tell, maybe they upped the pwr:) along with starting a new prg lineup:)

feloniousmonkey

I have a ws-65907 with Promise Module and I'm still not receiving 13.01. (I just tried) I do receive WNJN (all 5 channels) but for me the PSIP is 52.01,02,03,04,05(HD) NOT 51.01,02,03,04,05 which is the official PSIP.

Do you receive WNJN ??? What PSIP do you get??

Right now they have a HD special from Mobile Alabama on gardening architecture.

Current equipment:
Mitsubishi ws-65907
Promise Module
Mitsubishi HD-2000U
Channel Master 4248
Channel Master CM7777
Channel Master 9521A Rotator

PS
I assume you like the music of Thelonious Monk

I dont get WNJN. When the WB began b'casting again, I hit 11 and it came up, I'm not sure of its PSIP or any other-when ABC & NBC-DT went live I did the same. I think CBS is 45, if I hit that my tuner says changing it to 2.01. Can you tell me the correct PSIP for my local 13 (pbs) which should be WNET right? I get a blank screen right now, bit she reads 13.01 and stops there after 12.01 a sub of 11 the WB.BTW I love the music man:)

fmonkey

Originally posted by UroDoc
feloniousmonkey

I have a ws-65907 with Promise Module and I'm still not receiving 13.01. (I just tried) I do receive WNJN (all 5 channels) but for me the PSIP is 52.01,02,03,04,05(HD) NOT 51.01,02,03,04,05 which is the official PSIP.

Do you receive WNJN ??? What PSIP do you get??

Right now they have a HD special from Mobile Alabama on gardening architecture.

Current equipment:
Mitsubishi ws-65907
Promise Module
Mitsubishi HD-2000U
Channel Master 4248
Channel Master CM7777
Channel Master 9521A Rotator

PS
I assume you like the music of Thelonious Monk

feloniousmonkey

Check this thread for the stations available, their original channel and their current channel.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=3017342#post3017342

You can also go to www.antennaweb.org for your site specific info.

Mike, thanks for reaching out, cool links:D I'm going to call & or write to PBS mon. Do you know of there projected date to go live? BTW I still have a lock on 13.01-NO PIC. hopefully it comes sooner than later.

peace

Originally posted by UroDoc
feloniousmonkey

Check this thread for the stations available, their original channel and their current channel.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=3017342#post3017342

You can also go to www.antennaweb.org for your site specific info.

I'm using a Zenith HD230 on LI and I am only getting guide data for WCBS. I got guide data for WPIX a little while back. Does anyone know if other networks plan on adding guide data to there broadcasts?

Anyone know what channel 66 is? When scanning on samsung sirt165, it detects a signal, but then loses it and switches to analog. Just curious if anyone would know since it's not listed in antennaweb.org.

TAKKL

You may be picking up WUVP-DT out of Vineland NJ I pick this station up from time to time it is a Univision affiliate.

Folks,

I'm 45 miles from PA, 45 miles from NY. I've been receiving abc,cbs,nbc, fox,pbs, and a couple other stations from Philly for over a year now.
Just saw that NY was up and running so went to antennaweb.org, found out where to point the antenna, moved it (attic mounted winegaurd deep fringe model 9095 or something like that).

When I tried to see what channels my DTC100 could lock onto, just cbs and fox. Any thoughts/comments??? Are the stations actually up (and if so, are they broadcasting at full strength?)???

thx for any info.

Aceman

ABC is broadcasting at 222 kW, NBC is low power.

For anyone,

Why does cbs-dt show sd material with gray side bars when other dt channels do not?

Originally posted by TAKKL
For anyone,

Why does cbs-dt show sd material with gray side bars when other dt channels do not?

Because the gray bars are more widescreen tv friendly then the black ones. If you have burn-in concerns and watch a lot of the digital channel when it isn't broadcasting in 16:9, the gray bars are a better alternative. Some of their engineers must own widescreen tvs. :)

Well will the wonders ever cease; I just read this morning that WPIX-DT will be broadcasting the Yule Log Christmas program in HD this year.

Also on the grey bars thing the grey bars are shown during locally produced programming. Network programming will have the Black bars when non 16x9 network programming is being broadcast.

For you techies that are curious about the radiation pattern of the Dielectric antenna on ESB here is a link.
http://www.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/polarplot?temp=36672&rotate=0.00&p0=.731&p10=.682&p20=.699&p30=.921&p40=.780&p50=.795&p60=.863&p70=.837&p80=.846&p90=.813&p100=.613&p110=.905&p120=.393&p130=.280&p140=.592&p150=.857&p160=.748&p170=.698&p180=.965&p190=.709&p200=.744&p210=.776&p220=.479&p230=.814&p240=.919&p250=.984&p260=.937&p270=.804&p280=.783&p290=.812&p300=.873&p310=.710&p320=.674&p330=.762&p340=.886&p350=.848&p253=1.00
Notice the null going out over the water. A strange pattern indeed.
GT

Thanks, this is Great'=

fmonkey

Originally posted by George Thompson
For you techies that are curious about the radiation pattern of the Dielectric antenna on ESB here is a link.
http://www.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/polarplot?temp=36672&rotate=0.00&p0=.731&p10=.682&p20=.699&p30=.921&p40=.780&p50=.795&p60=.863&p70=.837&p80=.846&p90=.813&p100=.613&p110=.905&p120=.393&p130=.280&p140=.592&p150=.857&p160=.748&p170=.698&p180=.965&p190=.709&p200=.744&p210=.776&p220=.479&p230=.814&p240=.919&p250=.984&p260=.937&p270=.804&p280=.783&p290=.812&p300=.873&p310=.710&p320=.674&p330=.762&p340=.886&p350=.848&p253=1.00
Notice the null going out over the water. A strange pattern indeed.
GT

Uh, oh. Looks like certain northeastern areas are in a null. That would be a major disappointment following my inability to get a signal in Cortlandt from the temporary transmitter on the GE Building.

A little bit more clarification may be in order. This is a simple polarplot in freespace. Usually the antenna is put on a spindle or turntable and rf readings are taken at numerous monitoring positions located in a linear plane as the antenna is rotated.
You then have to superimpose this pattern on a topo map taking into consideration mounted antenna height and signal strength. The resulting contour map will show shadow areas along with City Grade, grade a and b and fringe coverage areas.
Do not lose hope. Wait till spring for results....
GT

Originally posted by wward
Well will the wonders ever cease; I just read this morning that WPIX-DT will be broadcasting the Yule Log Christmas program in HD this year.



That's great, as long as you live within 6 blocks of their transmitter! ;)

Originally posted by Ken Ross
That's great, as long as you live within 6 blocks of their transmitter! ;)

Come on, Ken. I know a guy 8 blocks away who gets only occasional drop-outs!

:D

Originally posted by George Thompson
For you techies that are curious about the radiation pattern of the Dielectric antenna on ESB here is a link.
GT George,

Is 0 magnetic or geographic north?

I dont remember right now. I'm drawing a blank. I will guess true north and magnetic is 13 degrees off. Have to look at some flight charts.
GT

Originally posted by George Thompson
I dont remember right now. I'm drawing a blank. I will guess true north and magnetic is 13 degrees off. Have to look at some flight charts.
GT Thanks George. I wouldn't have thought to ask except that antennaweb.org uses a magnetic north orientation so I wondered whether it is an industry norm.

Is there some reason the sitcoms on ABC tonight have not been in HD?

never mind. took them almost an hour to flip the switch. Nbc also. Frasier went SD halfway through. Why can't they automate these things? :(

Originally posted by trekkerj
never mind. took them almost an hour to flip the switch. Nbc also. Frasier went SD halfway through. Why can't they automate these things? :(

i ask myself that question all the time.

My NBC reception is pixilating like crazy tonight. Is this my antenna or is there a problem here?
Northeast Bronx

Channel 2 is in and out.
The Signal indicator on my AccessDTV card jumps high to low every few seconds.

Anyone else having trouble tonite? CSI is unwatchable!

NBC and ABC are looking fine.

Originally posted by mishagray
Channel 2 is in and out.
The Signal indicator on my AccessDTV card jumps high to low every few seconds.

Anyone else having trouble tonite? CSI is unwatchable!

NBC and ABC are looking fine.

I'd guess it's the wind. For me, 4-1 is fluctuating mightly. And I had to re-orient my rotor to get a better signal on WABC-DT.

What happened to WNBC-DT. No HD.

Mike

Okay, who do we call at WNBC to get them to flip the HD switch?

I think it's national, because the screen is not stretched.
Also, on NBC's site, there is no HD logo next to tonight's ER. Thought it was a mistake. Maybe not. NBC sucks.

Wow. With all of these screw-ups with WNBC, I'm kind of glad I can't get it. Seems like it's more frustrating having it than not having it.



...yeah, and I bet those grapes are really sour.;)

Just heard on 880 CBS-AM that there was/is a fire at ABC's building in midtown. Knocked off ABC's signal....at least on DirecTV's feed and I assume Channel 7 analog as well. Is 7-1 down as well???

Originally posted by jaypb
Just heard on 880 CBS-AM that there was/is a fire at ABC's building in midtown. Knocked off ABC's signal....at least on DirecTV's feed and I assume Channel 7 analog as well. Is 7-1 down as well???

I heard the same thing on 880. Chopper 880 said that the OTA signal was also affected, so I assume 7-1 as well. :eek:
I heard it was in the basement of the building.

I just checked, digital 7-1 is offline. If anyone knows when it might come back online, please let us know!

7.1 is still out.

Yup. 7-1 signal is down.

ABC is back guys

Now you guys can catch the end of Oprah in SD.

Is anyone having trouble getting a picture on WNBC-DT this morning ? I seem to be getting a normal yet low signal strength that I always get, but no picture or sound on WNBC-DT this morning. Can some please check to see if WNBC-DT is on the air ?

Thanks for the help.

Scott

Scott G,
Receiving WNBC-DT OTA as normal. Perhaps the snow is affecting your reception.

WNBC-DT is down!!! If someone has contact info to engineer, please call. Thanks.

Haven't been able to get it all afternoon. Must be down, or my receiver is down.

Yes, it's down here also. Guess they are doing some work or something? Does it much matter--there are no HD programs on NBC tonight anyway.

trekkerj,
True no HD programming on WNBC tonight, but the DT broadcast still looks much better than analog.

True. (for me, rigging the indoor setup that yield NBC-DT is a pain, so I only do it for HD shows, of which there are few). However, you can always call the station and ask for the engineering dept or station manager and let them know the signal is down.

Down here in Brooklyn also.

Blue

Ditto here in West Keansburg, New Jersey

weaker than normal signal. not watchable.

WNBC-DT is weaker and not watchable for me either tonight. It is going in and out. I think it might be because of the weather. I normally get a signal just strong enough to watch.

Scott

Signal is back to normal. I don't think it was the weather from my part of Brooklyn. I was getting perfect all morning and now. Maybe they put the heat on in the equipment room like last time. :(

Originally posted by TAKKL
Signal is back to normal. I don't think it was the weather from my part of Brooklyn. I was getting perfect all morning and now. Maybe they put the heat on in the equipment room like last time. :(

Yup, signal level just bumped back up to normal for me. It is now watchable. Maybe it takes a while for the signal level to build up when it comes back on the air.

Scott

Weird. Mondays shows are 2.0 yet commercials are 5.1.

Has anyone started keeping track of who is on what building?

I know CBS-DT is @ ESB, I think fox is combined into their antenna as well

NBC-DT rumored to be atop the GE Bldg (any guesses to when they'll have a 'real' signal?

PIX-DT
running at some rediculous power level on VHF
-anybody know from where?-
-or when they too will jump to UHF and get a 'real' signal?

who is going (or already at) 4TS?


Plasma arrives tomm and then its time to get serious about locking down some way of gettin all these channels since Cablevision cant seem to get on the ball and provide them :(

ABC is at 4TS, NBC is at the GE building, and everyone else you mentioned is at ESB. When the ESB combiner project is finished next year, everyone will be at ESB, and NBC/WPIX will be able to boost their signal at that point.

Anyone receiving PBS from 50-2 or 50-5? I get video but audio will not lock in.

PBS (WNET) 13-1-2-3 transmits from 450 West 33rd Street. I pick them up just fine, but can't receive NBC or ABC. Go figure.

Has anyone heard any news on the combiner lately ? Are they still on target for this March ?

Any information would be appreciated.

Scott

Last I heard they're still talking about Spring '04, though March is probably a bit too optimistic.

Hey all, this prob. persists. I come hme after a few days out, & ch 4.01 is gone-All other ch are fine 2 5 sub 9,7 11 40.1 are there but WNBC-DT I am not receiving:( I checked antenny & its the same as it has been for the last 2 yrs. I re-scanned tuner recognizes 4.01 but no pic or sound. I am left to wonder has WNBC-DT changed something in there transmissions. How could a ch that I have been receing fine since they began re-b'casting suddenly not be received. Any way I'm ranting any suggs would be great-this will kill me:)


fmonkey:confused:

If you are really having issue, try getting a simple indoor antena (one of the good ones) and give it a try. Perhaps it will pull in NBC more reliably for you, since you are close enough to try that. You can always return it.

As for the signal, they've were working on the transmitter room's cooling unit a few days ago (which is why it was offline for a couple of hours on the weekend). But other than that, the signal is of the same quality and strength that's it's been since it's been restored--i've noticed no difference.

Fmonkey,
I have about the same problem with WPIX-DT. I used to think it was the weather. Without any adjustments to the roof antenna (high winds included), one day I would get perfect signal, then another day I would get complete drop-outs at best. Also, when ever WPIX-DT acts up, WNET analog is almost unwatchable, but other analog stations are perfectly fine. So my conclusion is someone is making changes at the broadcast tower.

"A broadcast antenna brings the structure's total height above 2,000 feet. The building includes 2.6 million square feet of commercial space.

From today's announcment of the Freedom Tower. We shouldn't have any problems once it's erected! 2000 feet ASL WOW!

But it won't be completed until 2009. Let's focus the combiner first. :)

Thanks Trekkerj & TAKKL for the advice, so I get up ready for wrk, with all intentions to go to the ratshack & get a silver sensor or something indoors for some testing. I say to myself let me give this mf'er one last shot, I turn on the tv and low & behold WNBC-DT coming in beautifully.:) Something must of been up with NBC, I didn't do a thing. What a relief:D, the last thing I wanted to do was fiddle with this stuff. I really felt it had nothing to do w/my equip. Any way about The WB, I get them pretty good,but sometimes they are not b'casting DT, a friend of mine a lot closer to the city states he gets a 0 reading from his tuner on some days. peace

fmonkey-

Guys,

forgive me as I usually troll around the Philly thread. Is the ESB broadcasting at full power? 45 miles out in NJ all I get is CBS.
50 miles out of philly I get all the stations.

thx in advance,


Aceman

The only major networks on the ESB are CBS, FOX and WB. CBS and FOX are at "full power". WB is at very low power. ABC and NBC are broadcasting from alternate sites in NYC. ABC is a pretty strong signal, whereas NBC is also at pretty low power. You're too far for NBC or WB from NYC, but you might be able to get ABC on UHF 45 @222kW of power.

anyone in the bergen co area getting WB off air?

i'm in Hasbrouck Hgts and would like to be able to watch the log but my indoor ant only pulls in CBS, FOX, ABC, UNIVISION

I may have read these wrong, but from FCC filings.
http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/tvq.html
WABC 324M MSL 222KW
WNBC 284M MSL 10.5KW
WCBS 410M MSL 349KW
WPIX 320M MSL .125KW STA
WNET 109M MSL 2.66KW
WNYW 379M MSL 246KW


GT

George, any updates on the combinder? Does it still look like they will make it in March???

Originally posted by George Thompson
I may have read these wrong, but from FCC filings.
http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/tvq.html
WABC 324M MSL 222KW
WNBC 284M MSL 10.5KW
WCBS 410M MSL 349KW
WPIX 320M MSL .125KW STA
WNET 109M MSL 2.66KW
WNYW 379M MSL 246KW


GT

Haven't heard a word. Have an idea tho, but nothing but conjecture.
GT

do tell

Hrmm, can someone explain something to me?

I went to antennaweb.org and they listed channels 18-36 being available (yellow). Based upon that,I need a UHF antenna right? Like a Zenith Silver Sensor. I live in Queens, NYC and while reading this thread have seen many mentioning channels 2-13... VHF? Antennaweb recommends a small multidirectional, are there any real good ones out there?

What type of antenna is the Radioshack doublebowtie? and the Silver Sensor?

I'm not sure anymore of which antenna to purchase...

For digital stations get the UHF. However analog will be with us for many years to come despite the current FCC deadlines. (Prophesy) The VHF designations 2-13 are the digital identifiers assigned to the DTV stations that refer to their analog preexisting channels.
GT