Brian
What antenna are you using to get such a strong signal down in Toledo?

I am in Monroe county and get Toledo OK, but would love to get a steady, strong signal from Detroit.

StinDaWg
Sorry I am D* customer in Michigan, can't hep.


I have the high-gain multidirectional DB8, and I swear by it. I get all the Toledo locals at around 90% which is more than enough for a steady clear picture. Once I even picked up a Cleveland station while scanning the channels, although that was a total fluke.

Fox Toledo had no HD on Sunday 11/26. It appears the device that makes network HD possible had a problem. The engineers replaced in with a new one and the brand new unit died on them!!! They are making repairs as I type this...
I was wondering why the Falcons-Saints game wasn't in HD.. also the CBS Digital was down so I missed the Browns-Bengals game in HD also. I did catch some of the Sunday night game on NBC in HD though.

Last night Prison Break was in FOX HD so I guess they got it fixed. I was wondering what was going on so I spoke to one of the engineers at WUPW and they said they got the broken equipment repaced today. WUPW also said that several cooling fans were out in the HD switcher gizmo which is what prompted them to replace it with a new one in the first place. I also found out that WUPW NEVER brings the network HD signal into the TV station. Rather, the FOX network HD signal gets passed directly out to us, which is why it looks so clean for 720!

I live in Perrysburg. What is the best cable alternative to Buckeye?

Thanks

Well if you live in an area that has Buckeye, your only other choice would be Time Warner (which just purchased the Adelphia area that overlaps with buckeye) I'm not sure if its considered Adelphia at this point or has changed to Time Warner. There isn't much are that is overlapped by both companies.

Hello, I have a question about local HD channels broadcast through Buckeye's cable lines. I have recently acquired a Samsung SIR-T451 and was wondering if it would be better to just do OTA or get the channels through the cable line? I don't live to far from downtown so I figure a $30+ pre-amped antenna should do the trick to get good reception of OTA in the area.

Also I found that with OTA I get normal channel numbers, such as 11,13,24. But when I use the cable line those channels are all over on channels 84-125 or so.

Anyway, what would be my best bet and would anyone have a channel listing for the stations broadcast through Buckeye's line? I downloaded the PDF from Buckeye for the HD-No Box list but those channels don't match up.

Thanks for any help. Everyone is a noob at some point right?

Hello, I have a question about local HD channels broadcast through Buckeye's cable lines. I have recently acquired a Samsung SIR-T451 and was wondering if it would be better to just do OTA or get the channels through the cable line? I don't live to far from downtown so I figure a $30+ pre-amped antenna should do the trick to get good reception of OTA in the area.

Also I found that with OTA I get normal channel numbers, such as 11,13,24. But when I use the cable line those channels are all over on channels 84-125 or so.

Anyway, what would be my best bet and would anyone have a channel listing for the stations broadcast through Buckeye's line? I downloaded the PDF from Buckeye for the HD-No Box list but those channels don't match up.

Thanks for any help. Everyone is a noob at some point right?

I do not believe you will even need the amp as you are not far from most of the DTV transmitters. The TV transmitter sites for 11, 13, 24, 36, 30 are ALL in Oregon at 1000+ feet up so, the amp might be a waste depending on the type of antenna you buy. Remember, amps "gain" up everything! including noise so take that into consideration as downtown Toledo has a TON of RF floating around..

I use a small Sensar that I got free when VoOm was around. It works great from Bedford Township.
I have a friend in Sylvania that picks up Hd off his rabbit ears.

As far as Buckeye Vs. OTA, if all you want is local HD TV then their is no reason to pay for what you can have for free. The quality of OTA is at least as good as cable (any cable, or Satellite for that matter).

MV400 is right about the amp. I might suggest you look at the DB2 antenna.

Hello people,
i was told this is the best place for all AV advice so ive been lurking in the backgrounds looking for legit information and havent been let down. so i thank you to all who have helped others which in turn helped me.

now, ive got a olevia 537h with an antenna thats from radioshack. works pretty good picks up 11s digital 13s digital and hd 30s hd and 36s hd and dv...but doenst pick up 24s digital which is my favorite station. I went to antennaweb and saw that all of the above channels seem to be quite close together except 24s compass orientation is a degree or two more than the others, only a mile further from the farthest station id like to recieve, and its frequency assignment is 4 numbers higher than fox 36...ive moved my antenna around which is indoor to no avail. i tried to just push the channel into the remote but does nothing...
any help would be so kind.
thanks in advance and keep up the good work.

allahandro

Where are you? (Not specific, but zip), How far?

What antenna are you using? w/wout amp?

How high is the antenna?

I had trouble with 24 for awhile but adjusted the small sensar antenna I have to point right at the tower(used antennaweb also) and for some reason when I tilted the antenna higher in the horizon BINGO it worked.

I am 11 miles from the tower.

I got a pleasant suprise today. I have been all bummed out about not having Fox HD and CBS HD on my adelphia/twc system. I am out between Grand Rapids and Waterville on 65, and according to Antennaweb.org, I'm approx. 25 miles from the antennas. I was on newegg.com the other day, and saw a 20 dollar RCA amplified set of rabbit ears with a UHF antenna loop, and thought what the heck, I'll try it. Long story short, I can't believe they worked. I am pulling in about 80% strength signal on CBSHD, 60-70 on FoxHD, same with ABCHD and NBCHD. I never dreamed it'd work. Made my day.

KentStater72,
my zip is 43614

it says im 16.7 miles from wnwo, compass orientation 81

im using a radio shack indoor antenna model #15-1878 w/ a 22db amp with gain control (says on the box :) )

the antenna is around 2.5 feet up off the ground (i live on the second story)

and also the antenna type with the description i gave on antennaweb is in the red.

UPDATE:
i was moving my antenna around and found it best on the floor? (second story though) but moved as far as i could to the direction needed (parallel to airport hwy i guess) 24 pops up on 49.1-3...strange for me...
anywho im still gonna try another antenna out radioshack Model: 15-1892.. gets good reviews so far.. but please any other info would be nice.

KentStater72,
my zip is 43614

it says im 16.7 miles from wnwo, compass orientation 81

im using a radio shack indoor antenna model #15-1878 w/ a 22db amp with gain control (says on the box :) )

the antenna is around 2.5 feet up off the ground (i live on the second story)

and also the antenna type with the description i gave on antennaweb is in the red.

UPDATE:
i was moving my antenna around and found it best on the floor? (second story though) but moved as far as i could to the direction needed (parallel to airport hwy i guess) 24 pops up on 49.1-3...strange for me...
anywho im still gonna try another antenna out radioshack Model: 15-1892.. gets good reviews so far.. but please any other info would be nice.

The DTV transmitter for WNWO is on Channel 49 BUT, due to PSIP, you will see 24 displayed on your set top box... The 49 may be showing due to a setting in your receiver OR a problem with PSIP at WNWO. If 11, 13, 36, 30 all display the "virtual" channel numbers, (show 11-1, 11-2 36-1, 36-2) then it might be a problem at WNWO.. Please also try a "rescan" to have your receiver learn the local stations again. This could correct the problem.

NOTE:

WTOL TV 11 is really DTV Channel 17

WTVG 13 ABC is really DTV channel 19

WUPW Fox Toled is really DTV channel 46

WNWO NBC 24 is really DTV channel 49

WGTE PBS TV 30 is really DTV channel 29

My WNWO is doing the same thing. I have 49.3, 49.4, 49.5. I wondered what was up with that. The rest of the channels are correct.

ditto on 49.3, etc. sometimes pbs (30) comes in on 29. occasionally 11 comes in on 17. it's annoying. but after rescanning a few days later, they usually go back to their proper spots. or not so proper. re reception, i live on the toledo-maumee border. i bought a 91xg with a very strong amp. toledo stations are in the high 90s unlesss their equipment is not working properly. i can bring in all the detroit stations. sometimes it requires some adjusting for 50 which seems to be a little removed from the others. 56 is the weakest, followed by 2 and 4. but i'd say except for 56, i get the others 90 per cent of the time. i had an old uhf antenna which did not do the trick. it's especially nice, say, this sunday, when 62 will carry miami-jacksonville and 2 will carry giants-cowboys while toledo 36 goes with bruce gradkowski's game and 11 is dark at 4 p.m. because they had the b rowns at 1.

Just a note... PBS 56 from Detroit is on the same tower as CBS 62...

correct. but it has a much weaker signal.

anyone having good results in using a Qam tuner on the Buckeye system?

Channel 24's digital OTA quit working on my OTA feed to my HD DirecTivo (HR10-250). It also no longer comes in on my HTPC with an HD Tuner. The OTA feed direct to my HDTV seems to be un-affected, though.
Is anyone else experiencing issues, or know what may cause this, on channel 24?

It started around Thursday and I really felt it when I missed Heroes in HD last night!

Channel 24's digital OTA quit working on my OTA feed to my HD DirecTivo (HR10-250). It also no longer comes in on my HTPC with an HD Tuner. The OTA feed direct to my HDTV seems to be un-affected, though.
Is anyone else experiencing issues, or know what may cause this, on channel 24?

It started around Thursday and I really felt it when I missed Heroes in HD last night!

Yes. On my 10-250 it is comming in on 49.3, 49.4(Tube) and 49.5.
I am not a techi but as explained above the PSIP a way to take their assigned frequncy in digital and put it at the regular station # is out.
I have called and left messages but have talked to no-one.

I would encourage everyone affected to call because I do not think they think many people care because they either have cable or analog.

The number is 419-535-0024

I am lucky because I just got a HR20 installed on Saturday and now recieve all the Detroit stations in HD, but no OTA as of yet.

How did you get the receiver to know to look at 49?
Do the season passes update to 49 then or am I going to have to re-setup everything to make it happen?

I just called the number you listed by the way and I got to talk to someone. I didn't catch his name but he told me a piece of equipment went out. He said it could be 4 - 6 weeks before it is replaced!! :(

He did tell me they are advising customers to do a re-scan of channels with their tuners and they should pick up 49.x.
How do I do this with 6.3a s/w on the Tivo? On 3.1 there was a screen to do just that, but I haven't been able to find that since 6.3.

Sounds like the "MUX" is working but the program system information Protocol PSIP device is not working. The "MUX" box is what allows all three MPEG streams to exist on one 19.39 carrier and kinda "funnels" the three into one stream with some rate shaping. It is correct to re-do a Channel "scan" is best to get the audio / video PIDS back for proper decoding. I am not sure as to how any "paid for" sat services will react with improper channel ID's being displayed.

To go to 49.3, punch in the numbers manually.

The big problem is the DVR will not have a schedule for the 49 group and I have had no luck putting in a manual recording.

To rescan go to "messages and settings" - Settings - Chanel's - Off Air Chanel's -Scan for off Air Chanel's.

This will see the 49 group, but it will nort put scheduling in this group and you will not be able to set recordings.

well, at least I can watch stuff live in HD on NBC now I suppose.

Well, now that I have finally got an antenna connected, TWC in waterville, added CBS-HD. Well, at least I can still use the antenna for Fox-hd until they add that too (I hope).

Well, now that I have finally got an antenna connected, TWC in waterville, added CBS-HD. Well, at least I can still use the antenna for Fox-hd until they add that too (I hope).


FOX HD is NOT on TWC in Waterville?? They are on TWC in Lima... this is odd...

I'm buying my mom an HDTV for Christmas and I wanted to check on some info about Buckeye Cable. I just looked at the pricing guide and it looks like she pays $3.95 for cableserver (I'm assuming this is the cable box) and $.30 for the remote. If I just wanted her to view the local HD channels she would need to replace current box with a digital converter and remote for $4.95. Does that sound right to you guys?

If the tv has a built in QAM HDTV tuner, she could get the local HD channels with no box at all. If you'd like her to have a box, then she would need at least an HD box which would be 12.95 monthly. The 4.95 box is a digital, but not HD cable box (and is only 4.95 as a second digital box, if it is the first or only digital box it is 7.95)

Either way, she'll want to get rid of her cableserver as it is old and outdated and will offer fewer and fewer features over time.

It's offical... iNDEMAND HD channels are combining, thus dropping the second channel. Believe this happens Dec. 27th or there abouts.

That bites videditor... One less HD channel. I only want Fox and Discovery HD for christmas... come on TWC/Adelphia. Everyone in the free world has Discovery HD but us.

If the tv has a built in QAM HDTV tuner, she could get the local HD channels with no box at all. If you'd like her to have a box, then she would need at least an HD box which would be 12.95 monthly. The 4.95 box is a digital, but not HD cable box (and is only 4.95 as a second digital box, if it is the first or only digital box it is 7.95)

Either way, she'll want to get rid of her cableserver as it is old and outdated and will offer fewer and fewer features over time.

No Qam tuner on the Samsung 5086. I'm going to call Buckeye Cable to see if I can figure out the cost and maybe make a payment on her account so that she basically would get HD DVR service for a year.

Here in Cincinnati Time Warner uses multiple manufacturers for their HD boxes. What box (best box if multiple) does Buckeye use for HD and HD DVR. I need to order cables from Monoprice so I need to check on connections on box.

Thanks

Here in Cincinnati Time Warner uses multiple manufacturers for their HD boxes. What box (best box if multiple) does Buckeye use for HD and HD DVR. I need to order cables from Monoprice so I need to check on connections on box.

Thanks

I believe they are still using the Motorola DCT6412. I don't know that the HDTV only box is available any longer as when I exchanged a box this weekend and asked they told me that if you wanted HDTV now you also had to take the DVR. I didn't push it but it didn't make sense to me as they advertise the services (DVR & HDTV) as separate capabilities.
The 6412 can be had with the HDMI connection now but I believe Component Cable output is still an option. My two older 6412's at home don't have the HDMI as it wasn't available when I got mine but I think that's now standard on that box.
Now the caveat. I may be worng on all accounts. I'm sure though if I am someone will correct me.
Bob

Here in Cincinnati Time Warner uses multiple manufacturers for their HD boxes. What box (best box if multiple) does Buckeye use for HD and HD DVR. I need to order cables from Monoprice so I need to check on connections on box.

Thanks

The current Buckeye DVR is a Phase III Moto 6412, has component, HDMI & Firewire (no guide via firewire) for High Def video outputs. (I have mine setup via HDMI converted to DVI) All the boxes from Buckeye run TV Guide software. Multi-channel audio via Optical or Coaxial, you must configure this in the guide to get 5.1, when it is broadcast.

In order to get a phase III for sure, you can always ask for it, or exchange it if you get an older box.

Thanks, I'm going to go with her to pick the box up when I'm in town on the 23rd.

for those using a qam tuner and buckeye system, has anyone else lost the nbc hd channel 126.7?

Thanks, I'm going to go with her to pick the box up when I'm in town on the 23rd.


Lots of good info on the 6412 here:

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Including setup info...

NBC ch 24 is out on BCS end. They are checking into it. Might be a fiber cut coming from the station.

VE

24.1 - 2 - 3 is back for OTA HD viewers

Is NBC 24.1 24.2 24.3 not working for anyone else?

It is gone for me again. It was back, honest. I will be calling tomorrow morning, I hope people with a digital signal call so they know it isn't just analog and buckeye that get their programing.

It is gone for me again. It was back, honest. I will be calling tomorrow morning, I hope people with a digital signal call so they know it isn't just analog and buckeye that get their programing.

It is out for me as well. I am in Clyde and cannot get the football game through directv and my HR10-250 HD receiver. Neither on the 24 sub channels or the 49's. what can we do?

NBC 24.1-2-3 all out this evening. Too bad I can't watch the football game in HD. I tried to get the signal using my off-air antenna directly into TV, ot through a Dish Network receiver. No luck.

Interestingly, I can tune 24.1 to signal strength of 75-85%, but my tuner wouldn't lock the signal. (Usually it locks at 68-70% without problem).

I don;t think the problem is with your Cable provider, it is originating from local NBC station. Why and what is it? I have no clue.

624-626 still out on Buckeye.

NBC 24.1-2-3 all out this evening. Too bad I can't watch the football game in HD. I tried to get the signal using my off-air antenna directly into TV, ot through a Dish Network receiver. No luck.

Interestingly, I can tune 24.1 to signal strength of 75-85%, but my tuner wouldn't lock the signal. (Usually it locks at 68-70% without problem).

I don;t think the problem is with your Cable provider, it is originating from local NBC station. Why and what is it? I have no clue.

WNWO had serious problems with the multiplex device and PSIP system. They have since spent several dollars and repaired the DTV equipment. Please re-scan and all should be well...

WNWO 624-626 back up and running!

24.1-2-3 back on my HR20 OTA.

Yes, I get HD OTA on my Hr20

Sorry if this question was already answered but...I have a new Panasonic that is capable of using a cablecard. Outside of spending $100 for a Buckeye guy to insert the card in the TV and pay about $3.50/month, what will this card get me?

Thanks

I just recently got rid of my buckeye cable box because I was trying to cut costs. I was told I could get all the local HD channels through my tv, which is true for 90% of them. Fox and NBC however I can't seem to find. According to their website, fox should be on channel 125.2, yet when I autoprogram my tv it doesn't pick up 125. anything. Even when I try and manually go to that channel I can only get to 125 which is just static. And NBC is supposed to be 126.7 and that too doesn't come in. With that one however when I try and type in the channel manually I just get a black screen, not even any static. I'm not getting anything in the 125, 126, or 127 range. On the other hand, the TV does seem to pick up some channels that I shouldn't be getting, such as HDNet, though it is just the video, no audio. Does anyone with any experience tuning HD without a box have any tips or ideas? I know the digital box isn't that expensive, but if I can get it to work without it I'd much rather not use it. Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.

Lots of good info on the 6412 here:

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Including setup info...


Thanks, I'll give this a read.

I just recently got rid of my buckeye cable box because I was trying to cut costs. I was told I could get all the local HD channels through my tv, which is true for 90% of them. Fox and NBC however I can't seem to find. According to their website, fox should be on channel 125.2, yet when I autoprogram my tv it doesn't pick up 125. anything. Even when I try and manually go to that channel I can only get to 125 which is just static. And NBC is supposed to be 126.7 and that too doesn't come in. With that one however when I try and type in the channel manually I just get a black screen, not even any static. I'm not getting anything in the 125, 126, or 127 range. On the other hand, the TV does seem to pick up some channels that I shouldn't be getting, such as HDNet, though it is just the video, no audio. Does anyone with any experience tuning HD without a box have any tips or ideas? I know the digital box isn't that expensive, but if I can get it to work without it I'd much rather not use it. Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.


make sure you scan it a few times. i get ALL the HD channels through the cable line. with a recent scan, mine show up as 11.1-cbs, 13.1-abc,5.1 cw, 24.1 nbc, 36.1-fox, and 30.1-pbs

make sure you scan it a few times. i get ALL the HD channels through the cable line. with a recent scan, mine show up as 11.1-cbs, 13.1-abc,5.1 cw, 24.1 nbc, 36.1-fox, and 30.1-pbs

I'll try scanning again and check those channels. I was going by what the buckeye channel lineup list told me they should be, so I didn't think to check any other channels. I'll let ya know how it works out.

Thanks, I'll give this a read.


Might want to call ahead and make sure you can get a box, I have heard they are on backorder at buckeye...

They blame this on a national shortage...

Too late, drove up to Toledo today as the tv is coming early tomorrow morning and I need to get the stand built. I drove my mom over to the office to exchange the box and to my surprise, no HD or HD-DVR boxes. I'm not very happy about this after just talking to customer service last week about which box she would need and prices.

sorry i just found out about this myself...

:mad: :mad: I checked on the status that FOX is shutting off the WX radar on 36-2. The engineers say the FCC changed the rules and they have to show childrens programs on the WX radar channel, which seems silly since it is not really a channel that is used for shows just the radar as a public service. The engineer I spoke to also said he believes WTOL is getting rid of the 11-2 and 11-3 channels as well. It was recommended for me to call my Congress man and complain. It sounds like the FCC is trying to limit how many channels local TV stations can have. Wasn't the point of HDTV (and us folks spending all the money) a better picture and more local channels?? THIS STINKS!

Doesn't having the extra simulcast channels eat up the bandwidth the stations have? If thats the case I'd rather a station dedicate all of the available space to provide the best HD picture possible for the primary channel.

Correct me if I'm wrong in my understanding of the whole thing. I would just rather get the best possible signal on one channel than have minor things like radar that I can look up online available.

Yes John it does. I for one would be glad the subchannels go away. Who needs another weather map? We have the weather channel, and the internet.

It is true sub channels take bandwidth, BUT, with a bandwidth mamagment device, this is not the case. I suspect broadcasters will use the bandwidth for other things like wireless data applications...

I guess my point was, I would rather we get the most out of HDTV because a TV station has to take away quality from the main channel to make money doing some sort of over the air data broadcast thing.....

In the end, I think we are loosing out here.... What if rather than a weather map, 36.2 Fox could show Cleveland football instead of the Lions all the time...

I have Buckeye basic cable. My Panny has the TV Guide feature. It seems like ever other day the TV Guide is blank and says something like to service not avalable at this time.

Whats up?

Thanks

Jim

Might want to call ahead and make sure you can get a box, I have heard they are on backorder at buckeye...

They blame this on a national shortage...

Yeah, there is a national shortage, a few other bigger cable outfits are short also. I am testing a replacement box for BCS, using the same software as the Moto 6412. SO far so good, only a few minor bugs otherwise it's no different than the Moto.
It's the PACE TDC775D. TW is testing it also.

Well, now it's the new year, and it looks like INHD2 is dead. We still have it assigned to our cable system (TWC/Adelphia Waterville). Anyone know if TWC/Adelphia is going to add any new HD channels to our line up, or just leave us with a dead channel and charge us the same for less?

Well, now it's the new year, and it looks like INHD2 is dead. We still have it assigned to our cable system (TWC/Adelphia Waterville). Anyone know if TWC/Adelphia is going to add any new HD channels to our line up, or just leave us with a dead channel and charge us the same for less?

INHD2 should be gone now. BCS TVGuide has refreshed and listings are gone as well as the channel.

They haven't taken it off our line up yet, and they haven't added anything either :(

I seem to only get a signal strength in the mid 70s on 24.1 while 11.1, 13.1, and 36.1 all come in around the low 90s??? Anyone else experiencing this? I was fairly certain that the signal strength for all of the channels were about the same when I set up my antenna a couple of months ago.

I seem to only get a signal strength in the mid 70s on 24.1 while 11.1, 13.1, and 36.1 all come in around the low 90s??? Anyone else experiencing this? I was fairly certain that the signal strength for all of the channels were about the same when I set up my antenna a couple of months ago.

Where are you? What equipment are you using?

I am in Lambertville with a HR20 Direct HD stb. 24 has always been the most trouble for me also. I ended up aiming my antenna high and right at 24 to get a signal that is reasonable.

I believe 24 has the lowest digital signal of the four network stations in Toledo.

Check out antennaweb.org for customized information on your location.

I agree, 24 has always been weaker for me too. I'm out along the river off 65 between Waterville and Grand Rapids.

Not really sure if im putting this in the correct thread or not. But by chance has anyone played with getting mythtv working on the 6200 using the firewire port?

I was able to scan and found quite a few local HD channels. However the screen size is small. I can use the remote to change it the aspect to full/just, but it is kind of incovenient. Is there a way to keep a channel at the aspect size I want?

I have a Panny 50PX600U.

thanks

Not really sure if im putting this in the correct thread or not. But by chance has anyone played with getting mythtv working on the 6200 using the firewire port?


Do you mean loading mythtv on to the cable box, or using it on the computer as a dvr recording from the box?

As far as I can tell, neither will work. I do not have mythtv, but I believe it is a PVR software for the computer. The firewire port on the box just puts out the audio and video from whatever the box it tuned to, and it encrypts most cable or pay channels so they can't be recorded (my quick search didn't yield any quick workaround for the encryption but it could exist). So basically to use mythtv, you would want an actual tuner in the pc itself, which at this point would only get you basic channels and the free HD channels, but I don't believe there is a way to use the 6200 as the tuner for mythtv.

I was able to scan and found quite a few local HD channels. However the screen size is small. I can use the remote to change it the aspect to full/just, but it is kind of incovenient. Is there a way to keep a channel at the aspect size I want?

I have a Panny 50PX600U.

thanks

Take a look during prime time programs and make sure you are still geting a small picture. During most of the day, local HD channels will still have black bars on the left and right when they aren't showing HD content.

The firewire port on the box just puts out the audio and video from whatever the box it tuned to, and it encrypts most cable or pay channels so they can't be recorded (my quick search didn't yield any quick workaround for the encryption but it could exist)..


There is NO encryption applied to the signal coming out of the firewire port of the Moto 6412 or 6200.

This includes the "pay channels" e.g. HBOHD, ShowtimeHD.....StarzHD.

Take a look during prime time programs and make sure you are still geting a small picture. During most of the day, local HD channels will still have black bars on the left and right when they aren't showing HD content.


Thanks. I guess I will have to live with change the size size to zoom if I want to get rid of the bars.

Another question...do you know how I would enter channel 11-1 in my remote? 111 does not work.

Thanks again.

There is NO encryption applied to the signal coming out of the firewire port of the Moto 6412 or 6200.

This includes the "pay channels" e.g. HBOHD, ShowtimeHD.....StarzHD.

Wrong.

5C encryption is used for pay channels coming out of the firewire port. This is not an issue when connecting directly to a display, but if you attempt to record the stream onto a pc using something like capDVHS, it will not record from pay channels.

Where are you? What equipment are you using?I'm in Monclova and I'm using a Terk HDTVo. I have the antenna mounted on a chain link fence post 5 1/2' off the ground. I know it would be better to have it mounted up on the roof, but all of the channels were coming in very strong the day I was installing the antenna, and mounting it low to the ground worked better for running the coax.

Usually internal tuner 1 fluctuates between a signal strength of the 70s all the way down to the 40s on 24.1, 24.2, and 24.3 and tuner 2 will be in the mid 90s lately. A few days ago, both tuners were steady at 95, just like the rest of the channels. Today, tuner 1 is back to having low signal strength and tuner 2 is at 94. All of the other channels have strong and roughly identical signal strengths on tuner 1 and 2, so I don't think there's anything wrong with my HR10-250.

Just wondering if anyone else is having the same issue with one tuner having a much lower and fluctuating signal strength???

Buckeye Cable has HD boxes back in stock.

Hey, I've been having problems with my motorola 6412. I went today and traded it in and the guy at Buckeye gave me the new Motorola 3416.

It's just as wide and looks the same (without the inputs on the front) as the 6412, but it isn't as and fits much nicer on my A/V stand.

It has a larger hard drive, Buckeye said 30 hours standard or 10 hours HD programming.

It seems to work a little faster, not as long a pause when switching to VOD and between the tuners.

The remote also worked fine with it, I already had my B button reprogrammed for 30 sec. skip and it still worked with the new box.

They seemed to fix all the problems that I had with the old 6412 on this new 3416.

Does the Moto 3416 have firewire ports? I assume it does.


Also...Nimchimpski......I assume you work in or are familiar with the field of experimental psychology? The name is a dead give away.

The Moto 3416 has the following:

No - Cable Card Slot
No - RCA in (at all)
2 - Firewire ports
1 - USB (in back)
1 - SATA
1 - HDMI
1 - Component out
1 - S-video out
1 - Digital Optical out
1 - SPDIF
1 - RF in
1 - RF out
1 - Ethernet port

Still haven't figured out the size of the hard drive, but I hardly ever filled the 6412 up so I'm not really concerned with that. One other thing is I have it hooked to my tv via HDMI, then the tv is hooked to the receiver via Digital Optical, with the 3416 I have to have the volume set kind of a lot higher than with the 6412.


And I know less about psychology than just about anything. Why you ask?

It has a larger hard drive, Buckeye said 30 hours standard or 10 hours HD programming.



Can you double check that? That's about half of what the 6412 does, which has a 120GB drive. I don't think anyone makes 60GB drives anymore...

Let me rephrase that.

An additional 30 hours standard programming..or 10 hours HD programming.

It has 160 GB hard drive...40 gigs more than the 6412.

If you've had any problems with your 6412 I'd definitely go exchange for this smaller, nicer 3416.

Sorry if this question was already answered but...I have a new Panasonic that is capable of using a cablecard. Outside of spending $100 for a Buckeye guy to insert the card in the TV and pay about $3.50/month, what will this card get me?

ThanksAccess to Buckeye's Digital Programming, HD Plus Pak, Premium channels if you are so inclined. I just bought a new Panasonic also and was adamant about not having a High Def cable box - which you can't get from Buckeye right now anyway due to a claimed nationwide shortage. I must admit that I was not real happy about the $100 CableCard installation charge - especially since it was something I could have done myself - and, actually ended up doing. I heard the installer on the phone with someone at Buckeye - it was obvious this was the first CableCard installation for both of them. He could not get it working and finally had to leave to move on to the next appointment. I got it working later that day via a phone conversation with a Buckeye tech person. So, what did I pay the $100 for??? And, for the record, the monthly CableCard fee is $6.35. Still beats having to deal with a cable box.

INHD2 should be gone now. BCS TVGuide has refreshed and listings are gone as well as the channel.Videditor, you appear to have substantial knowledge of BCS and the TV Guide feature. I hope you won't mind a question: I have a new Panasonic with a CableCard and the TV Guide service. It has been connected to Buckeye's system since 12-26-06. Everything is correct in the TV Guide setup but it still does not show some of the HD channels at the top end such as 660. Some of the lower channels are missing also. It is not a matter of having them turned "on" or "off" in the guide settings - they don't show up at all - anywhere. Any ideas?

Buckeye Cable has HD boxes back in stock.Not according to Buckeye. I just called and was told a "guesstimate" is end of January.

I have basic cable and my Panny 50PX600U has the TV Guide feature. However, ever so often I look the guide as it say "no listing" and when I check the progress it says is is updating. Is this normal? Do you lose your TV Guide?

Thanks
Jim

And I know less about psychology than just about anything. Why you ask?

Nimchimpsy was the name given by a famous psychologist to a chimp that was used in a set of experiments designed to test Noam Chomsky's theory regarding human language.

Nimchimpsky was a satiric version of Noam Chomsky.

Videditor, you appear to have substantial knowledge of BCS and the TV Guide feature. I hope you won't mind a question: I have a new Panasonic with a CableCard and the TV Guide service. It has been connected to Buckeye's system since 12-26-06. Everything is correct in the TV Guide setup but it still does not show some of the HD channels at the top end such as 660. Some of the lower channels are missing also. It is not a matter of having them turned "on" or "off" in the guide settings - they don't show up at all - anywhere. Any ideas?

I'll look into that one... I have no experience with the cable cards... but I know who to ask.
VE - ;)

I'll look into that one... I have no experience with the cable cards... but I know who to ask.
VE - ;)Thank you!

I have basic cable and my Panny 50PX600U has the TV Guide feature. However, ever so often I look the guide as it say "no listing" and when I check the progress it says is is updating. Is this normal? Do you lose your TV Guide?

Thanks
JimYes, I have experienced that also.

CES2007: Dish to Offer its HD DVR for Free



January 10, 2007

EchoStar Communications said this week its Dish Network will offer new satellite subscribers its HD ViP622 DVR receiver for free as part of Dish's Digital Home Advantage Program.
According to the DBS provider, the HD DVR is the first satellite set-top box to be offered with no upfront costs to new subscribers. The DVR receiver can support two TV sets in separate rooms.

The HD ViP622 DVR was awarded an Editor's Choice and ranked "best in class" in the DVR category by online network CNET for its features and design (including what EchoStar said is "the only true 30-second [commercial] skip feature in the industry").



Wonder how good it looks....

The hard drive sizes in the Motorola set tops in noted in the last two digits. The 6412 has a 120G drive, the 3416 has a 160G drive. The 6xxx series from Motorola includes an analog tuner, the 3xxx series is all digital.

Spek

The Moto 3416 has the following:

No - Cable Card Slot
No - RCA in (at all)
2 - Firewire ports
1 - USB (in back)
1 - SATA
1 - HDMI
1 - Component out
1 - S-video out
1 - Digital Optical out
1 - SPDIF
1 - RF in
1 - RF out
1 - Ethernet port

Still haven't figured out the size of the hard drive, but I hardly ever filled the 6412 up so I'm not really concerned with that. One other thing is I have it hooked to my tv via HDMI, then the tv is hooked to the receiver via Digital Optical, with the 3416 I have to have the volume set kind of a lot higher than with the 6412.


And I know less about psychology than just about anything. Why you ask?

Not according to Buckeye. I just called and was told a "guesstimate" is end of January.

My mom had a new one delivered to her on Tuesday of this week. When we went to pick one up before X-Mas they were out.

I just installed a Channel Master 4228 OTA antenna and 7777 pre-amp. I am getting an average signal strength of 80-86 but can't seem to get WNWO at all. I have tried multiple times to scan channels but no 24 in HD. I have looked through all the scaned channels. WNWO in standard def comes in. All others channels come in great. My tv is a Pioneer PDP5070HD I am located in Northwood near Owens College. I see that WNWO going out has happend before I am wondering if it has happened again?

I just installed a Channel Master 4228 OTA antenna and 7777 pre-amp.

A couple questions. Where did you install the antenna and did you also install a rotator? These antennas are very directional. I', not far from you and when I want to bring in WNWO HD I have to rotate the antenna a bit from where it was to pick up WTOL & WTVG. If you don't have a rotator you may have to play with the orientation a bit to get the best far all. Some may be compromised.
Also, I hope you were able to install the antenna on your roof. Any antenna out side is better than the best antenna in an attic. :)

It is on the roof on a ten foot pole. I have not installed a rotator. That was gonna be my next try. I have played with the orientation but never seem to get WNWO. I'll keep trying till I get the rotator. Thanks

I'll keep trying till I get the rotator.
I'm sure you'll find the rotator will make a world of difference. Good luck.

Just so everyone knows, I justed picked up a Dual Tuner HD with HDMI box from Buckeye today. They said they were first come first served.

What model was it?

Just so everyone knows, I justed picked up a Dual Tuner HD with HDMI box from Buckeye today. They said they were first come first served.That's interesting. Buckeye called me last evening (I was on the waiting list for a high def box) and informed me all they had to offer was a high def DVR - for another five bucks a month - and that they HAD to come out to install it. I politely said no thanks to both. The extra five bucks a month is not a big deal - I just don't have a need for a high def DVR right now nor do I need them to come out and install it. I can handle that myself thanks. Heck, they charged me $100 for their tech to come out and install the CableCard in my new set and it still wasn't working when he left. Which of their satellite offices did you pick the box up from?

I'll look into that one... I have no experience with the cable cards... but I know who to ask.
VE - ;)
Jerry,
Still no word, I know my contact is busy testing out the new PACE boxes. Have not forgotten about you.
VE

Jerry,
Still no word, I know my contact is busy testing out the new PACE boxes. Have not forgotten about you.
VEThank you. Any idea if any of the HD boxes that Buckeye offers- including the HD DVR's - have RF remote capability? Or are they all line of sight IR?

Thank you. Any idea if any of the HD boxes that Buckeye offers- including the HD DVR's - have RF remote capability? Or are they all line of sight IR?

My test was a line of sight type... Have not heard of a RF version coming on board. The other brand being tested is basically a copy of the moto box. It's just this supplier can - well - supply them. Now.
VE

My test was a line of sight type... Have not heard of a RF version coming on board. The other brand being tested is basically a copy of the moto box. It's just this supplier can - well - supply them. Now.
VE Thanks for the reply. I called Buckeye yesterday and was told that their Southwyck office had some HD boxes. So, off I went. Only to arrive and discover that they were the HD DVR boxes. Since this was my third time going there to retrieve and HD box, I took the HD DVR box. Hopefully get to connect it this weekend and see how it performs.

Thanks for the reply. I called Buckeye yesterday and was told that their Southwyck office had some HD boxes. So, off I went. Only to arrive and discover that they were the HD DVR boxes. Since this was my third time going there to retrieve and HD box, I took the HD DVR box. Hopefully get to connect it this weekend and see how it performs.

Is it a Moto 3416 box? I don't think they are relaeasing the Pace box yet.
Once you have the DVR option, you'll never go back. My wife is the Queen of delay broadcast viewing!!!

I'm not sure how to go about searching info on this. Here is my problem: (I'm in zip 43557. )
1. I have always gotten cbs 11 digital channels and 27 digital. Recently my 27 PBS channels have been "hijacked" by channel 63. (christian channel -tbn?). I cannot get 27 digital any longer. Yesterday, 11 CBS digital channels which I have always gotten was "hijacked" by channel 63 as well. Now I have channel 63 on 63-1, 27-1 and 11-1.
Any ideas what my problem is?? I've got to get CBS back by the Super Bowl! :)

Turning my antenna has not helped thus far. Any ideas what my issue may be?
Other digitals I receive are 33-1 NBC. I just started getting it this week. I used to
be able to receive 13 ABC, but havent for several months now. I have not ever gotten FOX. I receive my channels OTA.

I suspect you have a big time problem with your tuner... Due to the "pilot" signal in an 8VSB transmission, I do not believe it possible for a channel to be hijacked. What I suspect is going on is that the PSIP information that your tuner retains in the on-board memory is getting scrambled and is re-mapping the new data over existing channels. I assume you did a power off, but if not, unplug the tuner from AC power, leave it off for a minute and then plug it back in to the wall. Also check your owners manual on how to perform a "memory clear". Perform a channel scan, and I believe that should correct things. IT IS important to note, FOX, and WTOL both went to single channel streams for broadcast, thus this could cause problems in your tuner module. You could also by chance be getting stations from Indiana.

check what channels you should get on the web at http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/Address.aspx

You should get something like this...
* yellow - uhf WLMB-DT 40.1 IND TOLEDO OH 42° 6.6 5
* yellow - uhf WUPW-DT 36.1 FOX TOLEDO OH 97° 33.6 46
* red - uhf WTOL-DT 11.1 CBS TOLEDO OH 95° 36.9 17
* red - uhf WGTE-DT 30.1 PBS TOLEDO OH 97° 34.2 29
* red - uhf WNWO-DT 24.1 NBC Toledo OH 95° 38.1 49
* violet - uhf WBGU-DT 27.1 PBS BOWLING GREEN OH 171° 38.0 56
Note:
The above listing is a conservative prediction of stations received. Depending on the specifics of your installation, you may be able to receive stations that do not appear in this list.


Also, the guys at FOX tend to be helpful. Somewhere in this list of posts is an e-mail address of the guy from FOX. I believe it was sdcrum@foxtoledo.com If you still cannot get them, try sending him an e-mail..

hope this helps...

Has anyone else had this problem: I set my Buckeye Moto 6412 to tape Veronica Mars on channel 605 (CW HD). Almost every time, it tapes the channel 5 (non-HD) showing of the episode and does not tape the HD version. This is the only show/channel I've had this problem with, and it is driving me nuts! Any ideas?

I had that happen with a show before. I basically deleted the series recording and set it up again, making sure the showing I use to set up the recording is the 605 one and not the channel 5 showing. Then go into the additional options and make sure it says This Channel Only.

Even if you are sure you did it like that the first time, it wouldn't hurt to start from scratch. Then to verify, to into the DVR section of the menu and check Future Recordings to make sure the show is scheduled to record on the right channel.

Videditor, you appear to have substantial knowledge of BCS and the TV Guide feature. I hope you won't mind a question: I have a new Panasonic with a CableCard and the TV Guide service. It has been connected to Buckeye's system since 12-26-06. Everything is correct in the TV Guide setup but it still does not show some of the HD channels at the top end such as 660. Some of the lower channels are missing also. It is not a matter of having them turned "on" or "off" in the guide settings - they don't show up at all - anywhere. Any ideas?

Jerry,
I have an answer for you, it's quite lengthy would you private message me so I can send it directly to you.
Vid Editor

Toledo OTA viewers:

I was checking my Toledo OTA reception tonight, and noticed WTOL-DT has eliminated it's normal SD subchannels and has 3 HD mirrors.

Is this normal, or are they doing something different, maybe for the Super Bowl?

No SD subchannels would mean all the bandwidth is for HD, and would improve image quality big time.

Any ideas?

Please see the post from 12-26-06, 10:54 PM...

I read that this Saturday's UFC PPV is going to be offered for the first time in HD. Does anyone know if Buckeye is offering this? I couldn't find anything on their website. Also, do you know if it will be 4x3 or 16x9?

It is true sub channels take bandwidth, BUT, with a bandwidth mamagment device, this is not the case. I suspect broadcasters will use the bandwidth for other things like wireless data applications...

I guess my point was, I would rather we get the most out of HDTV because a TV station has to take away quality from the main channel to make money doing some sort of over the air data broadcast thing.....

In the end, I think we are loosing out here.... What if rather than a weather map, 36.2 Fox could show Cleveland football instead of the Lions all the time...

Several factors here... One being that broadcast stations don't know how to sell ad time on sub channels (yet) compared to cable ad sales, who sell many networks and TV is a business not a federal channel. On second thought that could be debated. So station owners who just spent a ton of cash for HDTV transmissions need to re-coop, but they are in uncharted waters with advertisers and rates on secondary channels. Then the secondary channels went from local inserts to Weather Plus type (National feed with local breaks), they lost the instant local touch.
I think WTVG is the best at using secondary channels. I have seen many basketball games that I normally would not see. Though they do have a "family" relationship with ESPN, so those games are provided by ESPN Plus. Not sure we will ever see an NFL game on a secondary channel. There are just so many, and I mean many, restrictions for broadcast/cablecasting. And each league has it's own set of rules along with each network. My thoughts are the secondary channels will end up being used for something we don't know anything about yet. In the meantime, these channels will never be consistant in what they carry. So I'l take the full HD power.
VidEditor

Please see the post from 12-26-06, 10:54 PM...
Thanks. The difference between watching WWJ-DT CBS Detroit and WTOL-DT CBS Toledo has always been dramatic during live sports.

For the Super Bowl tomorrow, WTOL-DT viewers are in for a treat.

How much are you guys paying for your HD services with Buckeye? I'm moving in the next month and I'm trying to figure a budget. I tried looking on the website but I just got more confused. Is it cheaper to get broadband and HD/Digital as a package? Sorry for all the questions. Thanks folks!

How much are you guys paying for your HD services with Buckeye? I'm moving in the next month and I'm trying to figure a budget. I tried looking on the website but I just got more confused. Is it cheaper to get broadband and HD/Digital as a package? Sorry for all the questions. Thanks folks!Your best bet is to have your phone, Internet and cable all from Buckeye - you then qualify for their "bundled" pricing starting at around $99/month. There are many options that will affect the prcing. I say "best bet" with some trepidation. My phone and Internet were out for 6 days last month while Buckeye tried to track down the problem. Turns out some moron in my area was hijacking cable and his/her illegal connection was allowing an electrical "ingress" to the Buckeye fibe optic system knocking out phone and Internet to many in my area. Still, 6 days without phone and Internet service is a long time. This past Friday, it started happening again. Turned out to be the cable modem - again. I've been back with Buckeye for about a year now and am on my 4th modem. Those things must be manufactured junk. All in all, I'm pretty happy with Buckeye. Their basic telephone service is second to none around here. ANd they have convenient locations throughout the area where you can pick up/exchange equipment. Still, that 6 days last month really made me question if having all of my eggs in their basket is a good thing. By the way, welcome to the area!

A few months ago when I worked there I could have rattled off the prices no problem....but basically you add an HD box for 12.95 monthly or a DVR box for 17.95 monthly. Then you have the option of adding the HD plus pack for 10.95/mo which gives you the extra things like Discovery, INHD, HDNet, ect. Also, if you have a premium channel like HBO, Showtime, Cinemax or Starz you get the HD version as well.

I am pretty happy with Buckeye so far. They are missing some things that I'd like to see (the movie channel HD, HD content on demand) but they have a good HD line up compared to other cable companies. Hopefully they do something to increase their HD content and quality as the dish companies start to really focus on delivering more HD at a higher quality.

I had that happen with a show before. I basically deleted the series recording and set it up again, making sure the showing I use to set up the recording is the 605 one and not the channel 5 showing. Then go into the additional options and make sure it says This Channel Only.

Even if you are sure you did it like that the first time, it wouldn't hurt to start from scratch. Then to verify, to into the DVR section of the menu and check Future Recordings to make sure the show is scheduled to record on the right channel.

John - thanks for the tip! I deleted and recreated the Series Recording, and it has taped the correct channel the last two weeks (knock on wood...lol).

Thanks again!

Does anyone know if Time Warner Bowling Green carries the Cleveland Indians home games in HD? We don't have STO HD as a channel option here but do they show it on INHD or something?

I don't believe they do. But your best bet is to check their website. I believe it was referred to as Time Warner Western Ohio. That served the Bowling Green area and the other communities nearby that has TWC as their provider.

Your best bet is to have your phone, Internet and cable all from Buckeye - you then qualify for their "bundled" pricing starting at around $99/month. There are many options that will affect the prcing. I say "best bet" with some trepidation. My phone and Internet were out for 6 days last month while Buckeye tried to track down the problem. Turns out some moron in my area was hijacking cable and his/her illegal connection was allowing an electrical "ingress" to the Buckeye fibe optic system knocking out phone and Internet to many in my area. Still, 6 days without phone and Internet service is a long time. This past Friday, it started happening again. Turned out to be the cable modem - again. I've been back with Buckeye for about a year now and am on my 4th modem. Those things must be manufactured junk. All in all, I'm pretty happy with Buckeye. Their basic telephone service is second to none around here. ANd they have convenient locations throughout the area where you can pick up/exchange equipment. Still, that 6 days last month really made me question if having all of my eggs in their basket is a good thing. By the way, welcome to the area!
First of all thanks for your help! I might wait to add HD until football season starts up again and just go with OTA HD for a while. Unless Buckeye starts carrying FOX sports Detroit HD. I know they started showing a lot of Tigers games in HD last year. If that happens then I will be forced to get it when baseball starts in a couple of months. Oh and I'm from Toledo I just spent the last four years living in BG but thanks for the welcome. GO ROCKETS !

I don't believe they do. But your best bet is to check their website. I believe it was referred to as Time Warner Western Ohio. That served the Bowling Green area and the other communities nearby that has TWC as their provider.

From their website...

HD Variety Channels

750 Discovery HD Theater Offers an enthralling library of programs about science and technology, nature and wildlife, world culture and more.
751 TNT in HD Offers the TNT drama network, with its original movies, dramatic programming, and more in HD.

*Requires subscription to a digital package.
752 Sports Time Ohio HD Watch the Cleveland Indians all season long on Sports Time Ohio

HD Variety Channels
755 Discovery High Definition Theater
756 Turner Network Television High Definition
757 SportsTime Ohio HD

Obviously their list is incorrect/conflicting or outdated. We don't have STO HD but rather Fox Sports Ohio HD on channel 757. Maybe they show the Indians games on that channel since there likely won't be any HD content on that channel at that time frame. They took away INHD2 and didn't replace it so I am basically paying $7 for one channel, ESPN HD. Where is ESPN2 HD, MTV HD, or Universal HD????

Did Buckeye have INHD and INHD2? Or do they just broadcast INHD?

Did Buckeye have INHD and INHD2? Or do they just broadcast INHD? Only INHD - though a channel scan will still get you INHD2 - there's just no programming behind it!

INHD2 was taken off the air at the end of 2006. They supposedly combined the two channels.

Ah...I see. Thanks for the answers guys.

Anybody know what is going on with fox 36? I watch through a directv HR10-250 HD tivo receiver on sub channel 36-1. No signal, even when i bypass the receiver and got direct to tv with off air antennae.

What's up?

I don't know. I DVR'd American Idol. All I got was an hour of test pattern and static.

I just put it on Fox, they are showing a picture of downtown Toledo? Went to watch American Idol DVR and it didn't tape.

CBS Digital was out for the beginning of Letterman tonight as well. It's this damn weather!

I just put it on Fox, they are showing a picture of downtown Toledo? Went to watch American Idol DVR and it didn't tape.

all of downtown Toledo lost power. Got in touch with one of the engineers. The folks at Fox had a rough night. The emergency generator started, and promply caught fire forcing all to evacuate the building leaving them in the cold and in the dark. They (Fox) don't own the generator, rather the building they are in owns it. Guess we all got hosed on idols...

Thus far no word on a re-broadcast of tonights show, but I was told they were going to try and see if they can do that.. I even heard from my brother that channel 13 mentioned it on air, that Idol's could not be seen because of a failure of all power in the dowtown Toledo area...

Fox WILL be airing the missing Idols and House, but it will not be in HD.

Do you know when they are re-airing?

Fox Toledo made good !!! Acording to www.foxtoledo.com last nights missed Idols episode will air tonight 2/14/07 at 7pm.

What's up with NBC 24 killing all of their HD broadcasts with their school cancellation ticker? Can't they figure out a way to do it without ruining the picture? First Leno now Friday Night Lights in SD.

NBC 24 is the worst. They have that huge frame for the cancellations. I've emailed a complaint and suggest everyone here do the same. I explained to them that anytime I plan to watch NBC and they are doing that, I promptly switch to whatever is on 13 ABC since they put the scroll on top of the HD picture.

What's up with NBC 24 killing all of their HD broadcasts with their school cancellation ticker? Can't they figure out a way to do it without ruining the picture? First Leno now Friday Night Lights in SD.
Guys... the local stations internally are not HD, they just pass the network HD to their transmitters. SO any "breaking news", "school cancellations" type crawls are still done with SD equipment. They have no switching/keying setups that allow them to operate a master control in HD like they do SD programming. Thus the switch to SD/crawls on the HD channels. Be patient... one day at a time, they are getting there. Remember TV is a business and the owners did not want to fork over the cash to even transmit network HD in the first place, let alone convert their internal programming (news) to HD.

VidEditor

Guys... the local stations internally are not HD, they just pass the network HD to their transmitters. SO any "breaking news", "school cancellations" type crawls are still done with SD equipment. They have no switching/keying setups that allow them to operate a master control in HD like they do SD programming. Thus the switch to SD/crawls on the HD channels. Be patient... one day at a time, they are getting there. Remember TV is a business and the owners did not want to fork over the cash to even transmit network HD in the first place, let alone convert their internal programming (news) to HD.

VidEditor
On ABC they are able to do weather scrollings and county maps right over the HD feed...

Here is some info on the Pace boxes that Buckeye is testing:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=659367

On ABC they are able to do weather scrollings and county maps right over the HD feed...

Was it an actual HD signal or just the 4x3 SD feed on the HD channel? If over an actual HD program, then maybe TVG upconverted thier CG. Any crawls I have seen the past few days have been under a 4x3 SD signal- though on the HD channel.
VidEditor

As long as any HD box Buckeye chooses has an active firewire port...I will be happy. I've been a devoted Buckeye HD supporter from the start....great PQ with minimal compression applied.

Was it an actual HD signal or just the 4x3 SD feed on the HD channel? If over an actual HD program, then maybe TVG upconverted thier CG. Any crawls I have seen the past few days have been under a 4x3 SD signal- though on the HD channel.
VidEditor

Yes, I have watched a few programs that have the actual HD signal with the scroll along the bottom on 13 ABC. I have also seen them place the map over the HD feed as well.

Videditor, they did it over quite a few HD shows. Pretty much every morning over Good Morning America in HD as well.

Videditor, they did it over quite a few HD shows. Pretty much every morning over Good Morning America in HD as well.

I'll have to check it out - Thanks for the update guys... They must be upconverting the graphics. The only other thing I can think of for the SD signal to be happening (on purpose) would be a live cut-in (on camera anchors/live reports) since no one in Toledo is doing HD newscasts. Not sure I want to see local news in HD.
VE

Not sure I want to see local news in HD.VE I know what you mean! Be careful what you ask for!

As long as any HD box Buckeye chooses has an active firewire port...I will be happy. I've been a devoted Buckeye HD supporter from the start....great PQ with minimal compression applied.

It is active and works on the pace box.

It is active and works on the pace box.

Excellent news! Thanks for the information!

Gack ! Fox's HD broadcast is poopie !
I'm watching some redneck racing in SD! :mad:
Is Fox the least reliabe HD signal(over the air) or what !?

Buckeye told me they don't have ANY HD boxes left. BOO!!! Awaiting a shipment from Motorolla? I was told they only have HD DVR boxes right now. I'm not interested in one though. Damn. I may go with D* in the fall anyway 'cuz of Sunday NFL Ticket.

Buckeye told me they don't have ANY HD boxes left. BOO!!! Awaiting a shipment from Motorolla? I was told they only have HD DVR boxes right now. I'm not interested in one though. Damn. I may go with D* in the fall anyway 'cuz of Sunday NFL Ticket.


I have no affiliation with Buckeye (other than customer) but I would steer as far away from Direct TV as possible if you care about HD PQ. Have you ever compared D* PQ to Buckeye HD? Yikes! D* is overcompressed and looks absolutely nasty on an HDTV of any size. Buckeye provides the best HD PQ I have seen short of optical HD.

Also...why not get a DVR box? It makes HD viewing so much more enjoyable.

Yeah, I agree with Star56. I used to have Buckeye, and then moved to TWC/Adelphia area, and I can tell you, Buckeye blows them away both in PQ and in number of HD channels. Get a DVR. They are addictive. I hate watching anything without my DVR.

1st post - hi all! New Magnavox 37mf231d (Target rain check) - hoping to save money by picking up the local stations' HD through QAM tuner - thought BCS list of "Local HD Channel Line-up Without Digital Converter or Cablecard" channels in range of 124.1 to 127.6 might give me the 6 local HD channels they show. No such luck, however - the autosearch (bypassing the set-top box) did bring me 24.1 as WNWO HD and 30.1 PBS HD and a few assorted digital channels I wasn't getting through my Basic/Family package in addition to all the "regular" channels.

I'd appreciate any thoughts as to my misunderstandings and expectations.

toledodelot - same issues as you. I'm on an Olevia TV, on the internal tuner, it fund 378 digital channels and 74 analog channels. Instead of getting the channels on the listings they give, I get a corrupted signal on the actual broadcast locations (11.1, 13.1, 13.2, 24.1, 24.2, 24.3, 36.1, etc). The video macro blocks and drops/garbles audio. The odd thing is I get their PPV promo channels perfectly in HD. Haven't done any research yet to figure out what is going on. Want to be sure my TV should actually be able to get the channels off cable before I go fussing.

Meantime, the OTA signals are nice and strong and crisp and clean. All the OTA signals are good picture quality and reliable for me, be it Fox, CBS, ABC or NBC.

Edit - supposedly my TV has an "unsupported" QAM tuner - which translates to the mfr only designed it to get the ATSC or NTSC signals, but it might get some cable signals. Oh well. it was cheap.

FWIW, I tried it just for kicks on my Pioneer 6070 which does have a QAM tuner in it, and I couldn't get much. I didn't get many digital channels, and only one of the local HD channels. Seemed like I got the audio for many of the music channels on some weird numbered channels. Didn't work like I hoped to see it. BTW, I'm on TWC out of Waterville.

Thanks for your thoughts and experiences, guys. I too got the 378 digital and 74 analog results - ran through the search a few times in hopes it would find a few more - the other local HDs. To lengthen my story I'm in SW Cleveland suburb (with TWC) - the Toledo TV was a gift to my folks this weekend - spent a couple days there making sure it worked and hoping for more HD for them. They and I were pleased with the picture quality of all the regular channels through the cable - but just nothing like HD. Rather than imposing a higher bill on them for converter box and HD package I might try one of those small outdoor antennas that can attach to the side of the house on my next trip to Toledo. (Tried an indoor and picked up most local stations and their HD signals - but just not strong enough - first experience with extensive pixellation was a little unsettling). Would also need to have regular cable box then - to use the composite input and leave RF input for the outdoor antenna.

Would love to hear any more experiences with QAM success or lack of.

About antennas, I have my ATSC tuner input connected to a cheap RCA set of rabbit ears. It's a VHF/UHF antenna with an internal booster amp. I think it has a 15dB gain. I'm out in the country west of Toledo between Waterville and Grand Rapids, and I can pick up all the local HD channels with it pretty well. Most of my signal strengths are between 65 and 75. I would like them to be a little higher, but they are pretty good, and better than I expected from a 20-30 dollar antenna. I'm 25 miles or so from the antenna towers. If they are closer than that, they may be able to use one of these just fine (if there are no buildings in the way). Have you looked at www.antennaweb.org for info on antennas?

Good luck,
Mark

cadmonkey - just saw your edit - couple co-workers here in Cleveland with TWC have Olevia 32's and are watching HD on all local stations (and a couple others) after doing a channel search with cable out of the wall. Lucky them I guess. Wonder what the difference is between supported and unsupported.

Yes, the OTAs aren't that strong on the indoor antennas I've tried. We started with a set top OTA box on our 50" projection HDTV monitor a few years ago and ended up with an old fashioned aerial on the roof - great results. With my house design you can't see the antenna unless you're 10 houses away, and then only in the winter due to the lack of vegetation. The indoor antennas we tried (amplified and non) all exhibited poor signal quality and drop outs.

I already have Buckeye for my internet so my cable bill is high enough, I don't really want to add a box or dvr on top of it but it is tempting. Looking at Buckeye's pricing, to go from the extended basic service (no boxes) that I have now to get the HD box would add $15 a month. Not worth it for just the OTA channels for me.

cadmonkey - just saw your edit - couple co-workers here in Cleveland with TWC have Olevia 32's and are watching HD on all local stations (and a couple others) after doing a channel search with cable out of the wall. Lucky them I guess. Wonder what the difference is between supported and unsupported.

Hmm, that is interesting. The documentation I have is for both the 27 and 32 and the tuner info is the same - as long as their tv's are the 2 series. Wonder if TWC passes through the ATSC signal. When I last asked Buckeye they said they would not be doing that. They would only offer QAM or their box.

Mark - thanks again. I'd been watching your forum here for a month or so and noticed the reference to antennaweb. On my trip to Toledo I took my printout showing most towers 16 to 18 miles away - about 90 to 98 degrees. They have a brick house and neighbor's close house kind of cuts into that direction. Antenna I tried was not amplified though - but I was heartened by the fact that the HD looked great for the brief moments it was coming in. I'll definitely keep that in mind.

cadmonkey - doggone it all - I'm thinking my folk's house had a rooftop antenna when they moved in a number of years ago but had it taken down because they had the cable. Who woulda thunk. By the way I'm thinking the friends Olevia's are 532's.

you have me wondering now - know the one co-worker in an apartment with the Olevia has bigger tv with HD DVR box and HD package - his Olevia is a 2nd room set where he's getting his signal without a box. I was assuming he was picking up the HD channels on his Olevia through the QAM - now not so sure.

shessh........This is what we pay for.

"Beginning Monday, Al-Jazeera will broadcast on Buckeye Cable Company's digital basic plan. The channel will be 229. The new network is vastly different from its older cousin, the controversial Arab-language Al-Jazeera seen largely in the Middle East."

shessh........This is what we pay for.

"Beginning Monday, Al-Jazeera will broadcast on Buckeye Cable Company's digital basic plan. The channel will be 229. The new network is vastly different from its older cousin, the controversial Arab-language Al-Jazeera seen largely in the Middle East."Not in my home thank you.

Hi, this may be a dumb question, but do any MLB games air on local Toledo stations besides Fox WUPW on Saturdays?

TIA

this may have already been discussed, but can i hook my dvr/hd box to two different tvs using the component out and then the dvi out. i dont intend on using both tvs at once, but rather so i can have the benefits of the dvrhd box in two seperate rooms without paying for two boxes a month. thanks.

Just picked up one of the new Motorola DVR boxes, the one with an HDMI port instead of DVI. I used to have one w/ the DVI port but found the component output to look better in my eyes. Anyone who has one of these new ones know of the signal looks better over HDMI than component? Don't want to go out and buy an HDMI cable unless I'll notice an improvement.

1st post - hi all! New Magnavox 37mf231d (Target rain check) - hoping to save money by picking up the local stations' HD through QAM tuner - thought BCS list of "Local HD Channel Line-up Without Digital Converter or Cablecard" channels in range of 124.1 to 127.6 might give me the 6 local HD channels they show. No such luck, however - the autosearch (bypassing the set-top box) did bring me 24.1 as WNWO HD and 30.1 PBS HD and a few assorted digital channels I wasn't getting through my Basic/Family package in addition to all the "regular" channels.

I'd appreciate any thoughts as to my misunderstandings and expectations.

Hello - 1st Post!
I'm a Buckeye Cablesystem subscriber and I recently purchased a Panasonic TC-32LX60 with QAM tuner. I do not have a converter box - the cable goes directly from the wall to my TV. So far, I have only been able to receive video on 86.6 (entered and displayed as 86-6 on my tv) which is E! (Entertainment channel). There is no audio and there is a a gray box centered in the picture that says "channel not available". Since this channel is part of Buckeye's premium HD package, I'm not surprised that I can't receive it. However, I should be able to receive local HD channels. I've tried various channels that have been mentioned in this thread, but so far, no luck. Or maybe I should say, a lot of luck - all bad. :(
If anybody has successfully received local HD through their QAM tuner (and no converter box) I'd be interested in what type of television and what the channels are. Best Regards...

Hello - 1st Post!
I'm a Buckeye Cablesystem subscriber and I recently purchased a Panasonic TC-32LX60 with QAM tuner. I do not have a converter box - the cable goes directly from the wall to my TV. So far, I have only been able to receive video on 86.6 (entered and displayed as 86-6 on my tv) which is E! (Entertainment channel). There is no audio and there is a a gray box centered in the picture that says "channel not available". Since this channel is part of Buckeye's premium HD package, I'm not surprised that I can't receive it. However, I should be able to receive local HD channels. I've tried various channels that have been mentioned in this thread, but so far, no luck. Or maybe I should say, a lot of luck - all bad. :(
If anybody has successfully received local HD through their QAM tuner (and no converter box) I'd be interested in what type of television and what the channels are. Best Regards...


I have a Panny 50PX600U and receive the free local HD channels from Buckyeye without a cable card or box. I just set my TV to scan all digital and analog stations and they came up, plus several others misceleanous stations as well.

Glad the QAM discussion is still on. I've had a few nice e-mail exchanges with Buckeye - it appears they really are trying to be helpful. Latest e-mail came from a Buckeye systems engineer - he confirmed that we should be able to receive the local HD channels and said that since I was receiving the 24.1 and 30.1 (he said some tv's do the re-mapping like this) I should also be getting 11.1, 13.1, 13.2 13.3, 24.2 24.3. 30.2, 30.3 and 36.1. He advised another re-tune and if no luck then a call to the manufacturer. No luck with the re-tune - a couple calls to Magnavox suggested a re-tune. Doggone.

I have a LG 32LC2DU. I use the QAM tuner and I receive all the channels listed above including (CW ?)5-1 and HD Net 132-2 , 132-3. Which is kinda cool except I have no audio for the two HD Net channels. Does anybody else get those two channels through their QAM? And do u have audio?

They just added ESPN2HD to Time Warner Bowling Green ch 766.. I never thought this day would come!!!!!

Yay, they added it to our Waterville TWC as well. Now if we could only get DiscoveryHD I'd be happy.

Yay, they added it to our Waterville TWC as well. Now if we could only get DiscoveryHD I'd be happy.
You don't have DiscoveryHD? That was like one of the original HD channels wasn't it.

Yeah I know StinDaWg. I can't believe Adelphia didn't have it. Hopefully TWC will add it before long. They've added 3 HD channels since we moved out here in July, so hopefully we'll get a lot more added before long.

I was looking forward to watching the Indians in HD this year in Time Warner BG area. The website says ch 757 Sports Time Ohio HD / FSN HD, however when I put it on that channel the Indians game is not on but FSN New England programming is? What gives??? Why advertise STO HD if you aren't actually going to show the channel?

Hello all, I just moved into the toledo area (waterville, actually) and I am having a horrible time getting any reception OTA. I've purchased multiple indoor antenna's with rather poor results. Currently I have a amplified terk antenna (looks like a bowtie from the top) that If i hook up to a old extra amplifier then if everything lines up just right and I don't breath much then I can pick up a station or two. This seems rather silly since when I lived in Bowling Green I got great reception. I'm in a sub-dev so I can't put up a standard outdoor antenna. I heard both hate and love for attic installations. Does anyone have any antenna recommendations for me? anntenna web says I'm about 24-30 mile away from most stations, and they are generally in the same direction. Thank you.

First post HD idiot, hoping someone will take pity.
I've been unsuccessful pulling in local HD channels from Buckeye Cable. Got so frustrated talking to someone there that obviously knew less than me. (Why does that not surprise?)
Have a KDF series Sony 42RP 3LCD and small modem size digital box with Superchannel Pkg. Was told it is equivilent to the digital Motorola box without channel display and ability to VOD. Niether of those interest me so went with the small box for space considerations. TV does have QAM. Box has cable and I think RGB component, currently using coax from box to TV cable input. (Possible problem source?)
HD PQ from local OTA via antenna is great but sketchy on some, which is why I would like to be able get them from cable, with Antenna as plan B when cable takes its once a month dump.
Have run channel scan more than once with identical results. Local HD like 611 and 613 are mute with no picture, save for channel info. Interestingly regular TV with Motorola box gets sound but obviously no picture.
Anybody help a brother out?

First post HD idiot, hoping someone will take pity.
I've been unsuccessful pulling in local HD channels from Buckeye Cable. Got so frustrated talking to someone there that obviously knew less than me. (Why does that not surprise?)
Have a KDF series Sony 42RP 3LCD and small modem size digital box with Superchannel Pkg. Was told it is equivilent to the digital Motorola box without channel display and ability to VOD. Niether of those interest me so went with the small box for space considerations. TV does have QAM. Box has cable and I think RGB component, currently using coax from box to TV cable input. (Possible problem source?)
HD PQ from local OTA via antenna is great but sketchy on some, which is why I would like to be able get them from cable, with Antenna as plan B when cable takes its once a month dump.
Have run channel scan more than once with identical results. Local HD like 611 and 613 are mute with no picture, save for channel info. Interestingly regular TV with Motorola box gets sound but obviously no picture.
Anybody help a brother out?

I could be wrong, but it sounds like you don't have a HD compatible box. I was told that the only HD boxes they have now are the DVR ones.

I could be completely wrong also, but that's what brought me here! :D

I definitely don't have the HD box because at this point I don't think the amount of available programming is worth the cost. That will certainly change in the near future, but for now......
It is my understanding that local HD can be extracted from cable with the right equipment, and I think I have that base covered. ie; there is a previous post which talks about a Panasonic grabbing HD content from bare cable w/ no box or card, yet others like me can't seem to figure this mystery out.

I so confused I'm not even sure my assumption about local HD is correct.
So if there is a tech guru or Buckeye insider lurking about, that would be the first question to answer. If it is somehow available, then what am I doing wrong?

The next thing I am going to try is splitting the incoming cable before it gets to the box, run the bare cable feed to the Cable In input, and connect the outfeed from the box to an alternate input via component cables, and let the TV do a complete search again.

I could be completely wrong also, but that's what brought me here! :D

I definitely don't have the HD box because at this point I don't think the amount of available programming is worth the cost. That will certainly change in the near future, but for now......
It is my understanding that local HD can be extracted from cable with the right equipment, and I think I have that base covered. ie; there is a previous post which talks about a Panasonic grabbing HD content from bare cable w/ no box or card, yet others like me can't seem to figure this mystery out.

I so confused I'm not even sure my assumption about local HD is correct.
So if there is a tech guru or Buckeye insider lurking about, that would be the first question to answer. If it is somehow available, then what am I doing wrong?

The next thing I am going to try is splitting the incoming cable before it gets to the box, run the bare cable feed to the Cable In input, and connect the outfeed from the box to an alternate input via component cables, and let the TV do a complete search again. How about removing the box from the equation altogether? Try connecting the cable directly to your TV, run your scan and see what happens. If you do end up with the digital channels, then I'd guess the box to be your problem. I purchased a Panny plasma in late December. Brought it home, connected the cable feed directly to it and, if memory serves (and I don't promise that it does), it did "find" some of the digital channels but I believe I had to have the Digital Basic Pak added to my account in order to actually view those channels in HD and the proper aspect ratio. What you will also find much of the time is that even when the local channels pass along the networks's HD feed (since I don't believe any of our local stations actually broadcast any of their own programming in HD), the picture may be high def but the aspect ratio remains 4:3. I got hooked on HD so fast that I had the HDTV Plus Pak added to my account too - worth every penny! My Panny has a cable card so I'm not dealing with a bulky box. Before you commit to any other equipment from Buckeye, keep in mind the FCC ruling effective July 1st which mandates that any third party "cable box" such as a TiVo Series 3 unit, be allowed to "descramble" cable programming without a proprietary box from the cable company - thus saving you the monthly rental fee for your cable system's box. Don't confuse that ruling with descrambling premium programming such as HBO - your 3rd party box must be allowed to descramble it but you still have to pay extra for it.

How about removing the box from the equation altogether?
Thats kinda where I am headed with splitting the incoming cable and sending the direct feed to the Cable In, while sending the feed from the box to an alternate input.

... if memory serves (and I don't promise that it does).

Sadly, I know what you mean!

Thats kinda where I am headed with splitting the incoming cable and sending the direct feed to the Cable In, while sending the feed from the box to an alternate input.



Sadly, I know what you mean!
This is what worked for me. I have a digtal cable box from Buckeye. I added a splitter and connected the box with s-video and direct fed cable to my LG 32LC2DU(QAM). Scanned and...voila!! HD goodness!!!!

Scanned and...voila!! HD goodness!!!!


Ditto!!!!!! ;) :cool:

This seems to be the ticket.
No freebies, but PBSHD, all 4 local HD's and subs, plus CW5 and TNT HD.
Thanks all.

Just a follow up on that small digital box the prev. posts discussed. The DCT-700 is a Motorola Digital box, it's not an HD box & obviously no DVR. It's designed for secondary tvs' (bedrooms,dens,etc) that don't have a large place to put a box. It has all the features of BCS main Moto digital box except outputs & no clock. If I remember correctly the outs are , RF, Composite video & S-video. Analog audio out only.
I tested this box for BCS months ago. I had PPV, VOD & Prem. channels all working like the big box. Actually enjoyed playing with it as simple as it is. One note that it does use a wall wart for power supply.
Just an FYI in response from the prev. post. :)
It does not pass-thru HD, you must split it-like you guys have discovered.
VidEditor

Ditto!!!!!! ;) :cool:

This seems to be the ticket.
No freebies, but PBSHD, all 4 local HD's and subs, plus CW5 and TNT HD.
Thanks all.
I've lost my TNT-HD and the HD Net channels this morning? Is this permanent? BOO !!!

Channels are fine on Buckeye.

I have a similar problem with bad reception from an antenna and OTA HD. I live in the Alexis/Telegraph area and I bought a Philips Amplified indoor antenna expecting to get great signals from the local stations but I was wrong. I could never get a steady signal at all... on any station. I have a Samsung SIR-451 receiver, and I would much rather get OTA HD rather then plugging in the cable line and going the QAM route (this is what I am currently doing). The reason is, I don't get all of the stations through QAM. I get 11, 36 and 13. 24 is nowhere to be found in HD. This is a little irritating because I really want to watch Heros and the hockey playoffs. I have scanned for channels in STD, HRC and IRC but still cannot find the HD channel for NBC24. The receiver only goes to channel 125.02 (thats FoxHD) and thats as high as it goes. Is NBC possibly on a higher channel that I can't get to with my box? Thanks in advance for any help.

Channels are fine on Buckeye.
I meant through my QAM tuner. Maybe I should scan again.

I have a similar problem with bad reception from an antenna and OTA HD. I live in the Alexis/Telegraph area and I bought a Philips Amplified indoor antenna expecting to get great signals from the local stations but I was wrong. I could never get a steady signal at all... on any station. I have a Samsung SIR-451 receiver, and I would much rather get OTA HD rather then plugging in the cable line and going the QAM route (this is what I am currently doing). The reason is, I don't get all of the stations through QAM. I get 11, 36 and 13. 24 is nowhere to be found in HD. This is a little irritating because I really want to watch Heros and the hockey playoffs. I have scanned for channels in STD, HRC and IRC but still cannot find the HD channel for NBC24. The receiver only goes to channel 125.02 (thats FoxHD) and thats as high as it goes. Is NBC possibly on a higher channel that I can't get to with my box? Thanks in advance for any help.
Buckeye has a listing on their site that has the proper tunings for non-cable box users. That might help.

Thanks rocket. That puts things into perspective for me. I just hope forking out the extra $ for a decent outdoor antenna will bring in better signal quality then a $50 indoor amp'ed one did.

Just thot I'd add an update to my never-ending quest for HD reception without having to use Buckeye's extra equipment. I had a Panasonic 32LX60 that I found for a great price as an open-box deal. It has a QAM tuner, but I wasn't receiving any of the digital channels that Buckeye Cable listed on their website. (This was connected directly from the wall to TV). After "resetting" the channels and doing another channel scan, the QAM tuner found all the local channels, a few other channels (like WGN, CSPAN, CSPAN2, TNT) and also, suprisingly, several HBO channels :) . However, none of the local channels were being received in HD. One of the HBO channels was received in HD, and also, TNT. After a about a week, all the HBO channels disappeared :( . Not really sure why - I thought maybe it was one of those "Free HBO Preview" deals that ended. Also, there was no correlation between the channel numbers listed on the Buckeye site and the channel numbers that my QAM tuner found. For instance, ABC was something like 85-5. Unfortunately, I started to lose the digital channels. Over the course of a few days, some of the digital channels started to have problems with reception and then would have no reception at all. The Panasonic had a real nice picture, but the channel reception problem cause me to return it and exchange it for a Toshiba 32LX67. After scanning for channels with the Toshiba, I had all the local channels
in HD (although I'm not positive the aspect ratio is correct) and few other channels as well. I no longer get TNT in digital or HD digital and it looks like WGN digital is gone also. Also, the channels numbers are slightly different than the Panasonic. If any one else has any similiar experiences in trying to receive digital/HD digital channels, I'd be interested to hear about them.

Regards.

medinger2;

There was a free HBO week that recently ended. (Finally figured out what that stupid "messages" light on the box was, and how to access it, just in time for the LAST day.)

From what I have been able to tell re; local HD, it seems that Buckeye is doing its part to the letter of the "must carry" provisions. Even if the case can be made that they are not obligated to carry the HD signal of the locals, the fact is that they are, and at least deserve props for that. BUT, that doesn't mean that they are going out of their way to make all this voodoo comprehendable, and I'm sure thats no accident. It's no skin off their nose, or bottom line, if people get frustrated and shell out the bucks for the full HD package.

That being said, from my own experiences, and that of others, this all seems to be dependent on that mysterious equipment contained inside one brand of TV to another.

medinger2;

There was a free HBO week that recently ended. (Finally figured out what that stupid "messages" light on the box was, and how to access it, just in time for the LAST day.)

From what I have been able to tell re; local HD, it seems that Buckeye is doing its part to the letter of the "must carry" provisions. Even if the case can be made that they are not obligated to carry the HD signal of the locals, the fact is that they are, and at least deserve props for that. BUT, that doesn't mean that they are going out of their way to make all this voodoo comprehendable, and I'm sure thats no accident. It's no skin off their nose, or bottom line, if people get frustrated and shell out the bucks for the full HD package.

That being said, from my own experiences, and that of others, this all seems to be dependent on that mysterious equipment contained inside one brand of TV to another.

Buckeye79Z-
Thanks for the confirmation on the HBO preview - I thot that might be the case. And I think you hit the nail on the head regarding Buckeye Cablesystems and their support for local HD w/out a set-top box. To be fair, I had a couple interactions with customer service - when the first customer service rep was unable to answer my questions, she referred me to their "second tier" customer service rep who seemed to be quite knowledgeable about QAM reception from Buckeye. The bottom line, however, seemed to be: Try re-scanning, if that doesn't work, call the manufacturer. Maybe I need to do a bit more research on QAM, but I'm a bit mystified that different manufacturers come up with different channel mappings after auto-scanning. Back in the day, channel 13 was channel 13...but I digress. Bottom line: after several weeks of research, experimenting and TV return/exchanges (thanks, Best Buy - no questions asked return policy), I'm getting everything that I'm paying for from Buckeye Cable. Plus, a few digital channels that I didn't expect. Disappointed that I lost TNT HD, tho - watching NBA playoffs in HD was absolutely stunning.

Regards

I recently purchased a Vizio 32" LCD with a built-in ATSC/QAM tuner. Using a silver sensor type antenna I was able to pull in all the locals, though I do get dropouts on WNWO-24. I'm at I-280 & Starr Ave so I am very close to all 5 towers. From 3.0 miles (closest) to 7.6 miles (farthest).

I got a Radio Shack 40" boom outdoor antenna that I thought for sure would help my reception. Right now it is in the house and I have to angle it up but the big honker doesn't work as well.

I plugged in the cable from Buckeye directly into the TV. After a scan it picked up all the QAM locals including the subs. The picture didn't look as good as the OTA on the HD channels but the reception was solid. After checking my coax splitters I found one that was a bit old and after replacing it with a newer one the HD on QAM appears as good as OTA. Not much need for the antenna now.

Folks,

Howdy! Been using Buckeye and their Moto6412 without problems with firewire out for a few years.

All of a sudden, WTOL-11 has incorrectly set their RC Flag to 0X01 and the CCI flag to 0X02.

This means that my firewire devices are not recognizing the darn station. Everyone else (13, 24,36,30) have the flag set correctly to 0X00. WTOL just recently changed this. From reading up on this it appear this is probably an error and has to do with them playing with their encoders.

If their is anyone here who knows an eng at WTOl could you have him/her read my post? If not...any idea how to get through to them?

Thanks!

Tom

Folks,

If their is anyone here who knows an eng at WTOl could you have him/her read my post? If not...any idea how to get through to them?

Thanks!

Tom

Tom, I sent an email to an ch 11 eng. buddy I work with here & there in the freelance world. I copied your post, I'll let you know if I hear back from him.

VidEditor

PS. Would you mind explaining your process on using the firewire out from the motobox? Software available for this, etc? A buddy of mine is interested in doing this & I have no idea on where to start. Or point me to a thread? THANKS

Tom, I sent an email to an ch 11 eng. buddy I work with here & there in the freelance world. I copied your post, I'll let you know if I hear back from him.

VidEditor

PS. Would you mind explaining your process on using the firewire out from the motobox? Software available for this, etc? A buddy of mine is interested in doing this & I have no idea on where to start. Or point me to a thread? THANKS

Fantastic! Thanks. It is unclear if WTOL OR Buckeye sets the RC /CCI flag. I just got a reply in another forum that claims that it is the cable company that sets the flag. Perhaps I should notify Buckeye? If you know someone at Buckeye perhaps they could reset the flag on their end. As of now...611 is the ONLY broadcast station with the flags set incorrectly.


I use CapDVHS. A freeware program available all over the net (just google it...I don't recall the link I downloaded from). I record to my DVHS machine first. Then capture the stream by firewire from my dvhs machine to my computer. I get an Mpeg-2 clip that I put on my Ps3 hard drive.

Thanks for the help!

Tom

There are drivers available that allow capture from the Moto box to the computer...but I have never used this technique.

Here's the thread to tell you how to do it. I got it to work, but it's a bit monotonous, as you have to record it in real time as you're watching it. It's not bad though.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=403695

Here's the thread to tell you how to do it. I got it to work, but it's a bit monotonous, as you have to record it in real time as you're watching it. It's not bad though.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=403695

Mark.

I am missing some component of XP to load the drivers. Something like WINDOWS MEDIA DASHBOARD 2005. Can't get my puter to recognize the Moto box. What drivers did you use?

Tom

Just a heads up...
BCS "is looking at adding National Geographic HD, Fox Sports Ohio HD, Fox Sports Detroit HD, and also the Big Ten Network in HD. We have also been negotiating with ESPN for ESPN2 HD." (Per customer service.)
The ESPN2 HD channel is being lumped in with other ABC family channel requirements- that's the delay for DUECE2 HD.

VidEditor

Just a heads up...
BCS "is looking at adding National Geographic HD, Fox Sports Ohio HD, Fox Sports Detroit HD, and also the Big Ten Network in HD. We have also been negotiating with ESPN for ESPN2 HD." (Per customer service.)
The ESPN2 HD channel is being lumped in with other ABC family channel requirements- that's the delay for DUECE2 HD.

VidEditor

:D

Thanks for the info, I was wondering about ESPN2 HD

Just a heads up...
BCS "is looking at adding National Geographic HD, Fox Sports Ohio HD, Fox Sports Detroit HD, and also the Big Ten Network in HD. We have also been negotiating with ESPN for ESPN2 HD." (Per customer service.)
The ESPN2 HD channel is being lumped in with other ABC family channel requirements- that's the delay for DUECE2 HD.

VidEditor Tigers in HD!!! YES!!! Any kind of educated guess when this might happen?

Just a heads up...
BCS "is looking at adding National Geographic HD, Fox Sports Ohio HD, Fox Sports Detroit HD, and also the Big Ten Network in HD. We have also been negotiating with ESPN for ESPN2 HD." (Per customer service.)
The ESPN2 HD channel is being lumped in with other ABC family channel requirements- that's the delay for DUECE2 HD.

VidEditor

Excellent news. I was going to post and ask if there was anything new coming in the future. National Geographic HD would be super!

Just a heads up...
BCS "is looking at adding National Geographic HD, Fox Sports Ohio HD, Fox Sports Detroit HD, and also the Big Ten Network in HD. We have also been negotiating with ESPN for ESPN2 HD." (Per customer service.)
The ESPN2 HD channel is being lumped in with other ABC family channel requirements- that's the delay for DUECE2 HD.

VidEditor

I heard rumors in July, but that could mean August. Don't get too excited about ESPN2, ABC is dragging thier feet on the duces channel. The others will probably come before the duece hd.

Does anyone else on here watch the Versus network on Buckeye? It's channel 6xx (I can't remember right now, am not at home and is not listed on Buckeye's website). The channel listing in the guide always shows "Off the air", so I always ignored it, but last night I was flipping around and noticed that it was actually broadcasting and showing some pretty good MMA (mixed martial arts) shows (but the guide still said "Off the air"). I have no idea if it broadcasts all the time or not, and don't know why there is no guide info for the channel.

Has anyone watched this channel and/or do you have any guide listings for it?

Does anyone else on here watch the Versus network on Buckeye? It's channel 6xx (I can't remember right now, am not at home and is not listed on Buckeye's website). The channel listing in the guide always shows "Off the air", so I always ignored it, but last night I was flipping around and noticed that it was actually broadcasting and showing some pretty good MMA (mixed martial arts) shows (but the guide still said "Off the air"). I have no idea if it broadcasts all the time or not, and don't know why there is no guide info for the channel.

Has anyone watched this channel and/or do you have any guide listings for it?

I've noticed the same thing. The picture quality is terrific and they have some interesting stuff on in the middle of the night. You just never know what is on!

Versus HD was primary used for NHL Hockey and VS does not feed TV Guide (guide supplier to BCS) show info. The best way I have found is to tune-in to VS SD, think chan 194 and use that guide info for the HD channel. Never really studied if the guides corrispond 100% but it's a good start. VS HD also shares their HD signal with the Golf Channel. SO when TGC has an HD program, it turns into TGC-HD. I know the contract at some point with VS HD channel expired with BCS. That's why some of the conflicts with the Red WIngs being on the SD channel and not in HD happened. Not sure where that stands- as far as a new contract. There is alot of SD programming on VS-HD. I have a friend that works on the PBR Bull riding shows and they are mostly HD now. I have seen those running on VS-HD. That's about what I know...
VidEditor

Thanks for the info Star56 and Videditor! I'll try the trick for checking the listings on 194.

The HD quality on the show I watched (WEC WrekCage) was outstanding! It made the UFC shows on Spike (non-HD, obviously) look like poo :)

I have this unit and need to get some programs off of it and onto another hard drive. The hard drive capacity is so small.

There are plenty of ports, USB, IEEE1394, SATA, ethernet etc.

Which are enabled and proven to work?

Also, I have bunch of uncompressed ******.ts pure HD files that I would like to watch on my TV instead of my computer.

How can you transfer files TO the 3416 DCT and play them?

Thanks

Folks,
Been using Buckeye and their Moto6412 without problems with firewire out for a few years.

All of a sudden, WTOL-11 has incorrectly set their RC Flag to 0X01 and the CCI flag to 0X02.


That is the reason I gave up on the Moto6412 -> Firewire transfer. It is hit or miss for me. I originally had a 6412 Series II that could do the broadcast networks. I had to swap the 6412 and ended up with a 6412 Series III. I could only transfer 24 (624) and 36 (636). I could not transfer 11 or 13. I had the 6412 plugged into my PC and used CapDVHS.

At times dropouts or glitches would cause the transfers to hang. One thing that would always cause glitches was on 24 when they show the weather radar right before going back to the program. It always stomps on the first second or two of the program. I wish they would stop that as it irks me too much.

Finally I gave up and built a PC based DVR over the past few months. I ended up spending almost as much as it would cost for a TiVo Series 3 but I now have things working pretty well. I have had my 6412 unhooked for a month or so and tomorrow I'm taking it back to Buckeye.

For the average user the Moto6412 is a simple way to have a no fuss DVR and I cannot recommend it enough. For me I like the freedom of what I can do with my networked DVR.

Granted I do not have access to anything other than basic cable. I only watch the broadcast (HDTV) networks so that doesn't bother me. I also can record analog cable for now but that may change down the road depending on when or if Buckeye switches everyone to digital.

Well gang, I just placed an order for a new HDTV, my first. I expect it to arrive some time next week. I'm placing this new television in a room that currently does not contain any kind of TV. So I'm starting from scratch, as it were.

I currently subscribe to Time Warner Cable, although this room is not wired to receive their services. There is a Buckeye jack on the wall, however (so a move back to BCS is likely before too long).

Before I do anything with the cable companies, I would like to dabble a bit with this television using OTA signals. I live in Perrysburg, within 16 miles of the local networks (according to antennaweb).

Any recommendations for antennas? Do the indoor models work at all? I really have no interest in mounting a huge antenna on the roof. I can place something outside on a fence post or something, if need be. In any event, this is most likely just a temporary measure until I move to cable.

Thoughts?

Well gang, I just placed an order for a new HDTV, my first. I expect it to arrive some time next week. I'm placing this new television in a room that currently does not contain any kind of TV. So I'm starting from scratch, as it were.

I currently subscribe to Time Warner Cable, although this room is not wired to receive their services. There is a Buckeye jack on the wall, however (so a move back to BCS is likely before too long).

Before I do anything with the cable companies, I would like to dabble a bit with this television using OTA signals. I live in Perrysburg, within 16 miles of the local networks (according to antennaweb).

Any recommendations for antennas? Do the indoor models work at all? I really have no interest in mounting a huge antenna on the roof. I can place something outside on a fence post or something, if need be. In any event, this is most likely just a temporary measure until I move to cable.

Thoughts?I believe you will find poor to non-existent performace from an indoor HD OTA. Through the experience of others, nothing seems to work like getting your antenna as high in the air as you can. Like you, I have NO interest in mounting an antenna on my roof or putting up a 1950's style TV tower. For the most part, I find Buckeye's HD programming looks just fine on my HDTV. Good luck and happy viewing!

I believe you will find poor to non-existent performace from an indoor HD OTA. Through the experience of others, nothing seems to work like getting your antenna as high in the air as you can. Like you, I have NO interest in mounting an antenna on my roof or putting up a 1950's style TV tower. For the most part, I find Buckeye's HD programming looks just fine on my HDTV. Good luck and happy viewing!


Yeah, that's kind of what I figured.

Switching cable companies right now just seems like such a hassle. And since Time Warner has such abysmal HD offerings, I don't think it would be worth the effort to outfit the new room to receive their signals.

Thanks for the help though!

if your tv comes with a QAM HDTV tuner, you should be able to receive OTA signals via a cable line. You had also said that room is wired for BCS, there should be a way to link that wire to your time warner connection

if your tv comes with a QAM HDTV tuner, you should be able to receive OTA signals via a cable line. You had also said that room is wired for BCS, there should be a way to link that wire to your time warner connection

Yeah, the new TV has a QAM tuner.

And I certainly could connect TWC to the new room, but I'm not sure it would be worth it. TWC has a pretty crap HD selection. Especially compared to what BCS offers.

It looks like I'll just switch back to Buckeye in a few months. The wife hates when I do things like this... :rolleyes:

Yeah, the new TV has a QAM tuner.

And I certainly could connect TWC to the new room, but I'm not sure it would be worth it. TWC has a pretty crap HD selection. Especially compared to what BCS offers.

It looks like I'll just switch back to Buckeye in a few months. The wife hates when I do things like this... :rolleyes:

the qam tuner enables you to get the locals for FREE with no antenna. your looking at a $25-30 additional for buckeyes complete HD package, including the box.

the qam tuner enables you to get the locals for FREE with no antenna. your looking at a $25-30 additional for buckeyes complete HD package, including the box.

I moved a few cables around and managed to get the Time Warner feed connected to the new TV. And, using the QAM tuner, I was able to pull all of the standard "non-box" channels, as well as the five major networks in HD. I was kind of surprised by how painless the whole process was.

The quality of the HD seems to be up to par with OTA reception. I flipped back and forth a few times between cable and antenna, and I didn't notice much of a difference. I need to spend some more time before I decide to get rid of the antenna for good.

I just got off the phone with a rep from Time Warner, and she told me that TWC can give me three local networks in HD as part of the HD basic pack. In addition, the HD Plus package includes HDNet, HDNet Movies, ESPN, INHD1 and INHD2. And that's it. :(

Now, since my QAM tuner currently picks up all five networks, I know that this rep must not have all of the most current information in front of her. :confused:

Are there any other HD channels that she may be missing? Can any current TWC Waterville customer give me a heads-up?

Thanks!

Here's my HD lineup through TWC Waterville:

703 - WGTE PBS HD
707 - FOX WUPW HD
710 - WNWO NBC HD
711 - WTOL CBS HD
713 - WTVG ABC HD
750 - HBO HD
751 - SHO HD
752 - Starz HD
753 - Cinemax HD
770 - HDNet
771 - HDNet Movies
772 - ESPN HD
773 - ESPN2 HD
774 - MOJO (Formerly INHD and INHD2)

And that's it. That's all TWC Waterville offers in HD. I can't believe they don't have at least Discovery HD and TNT HD. I hope they improve their lineup before long, because it's the worst lineup I've had for HD anywhere I've lived. Buckeye kicks TWC's butt. On the plus side though, they just bumped my Roadrunner premium to 15Mbps, or somewhere around there, up from 8mpbs.

Here's my HD lineup through TWC Waterville...

And that's it. That's all TWC Waterville offers in HD. I can't believe they don't have at least Discovery HD and TNT HD. I hope they improve their lineup before long, because it's the worst lineup I've had for HD anywhere I've lived. Buckeye kicks TWC's butt. On the plus side though, they just bumped my Roadrunner premium to 15Mbps, or somewhere around there, up from 8mpbs.

Like I've said before, the TWC HD offering is abysmal. It's been nearly a year since Time Warner took over from Adelphia. What new HD channels have they added since then? Fox and CBS? That's pathetic.

In any event, what kind of box did TWC give you? How is it connecting to your TV? With HDMI or DVI? Component?

Thanks!

Like I've said before, the TWC HD offering is abysmal. It's been nearly a year since Time Warner took over from Adelphia. What new HD channels have they added since then? Fox and CBS? That's pathetic.

In any event, what kind of box did TWC give you? How is it connecting to your TV? With HDMI or DVI? Component?

Thanks!

I'm pretty sure the only box they have is the Moto 6412's. I've got 2 of the HD DVR's. One is connected with HDMI in the living room and the other is connected by component in the bedroom. Yeah, we're coming up on a year in August, and I've been pretty disappointed with the TWC Waterville offerings for HD out here. I am also disappointed that they haven't gotten their phone system working here yet as well. Although, now since Vonage has Tontogany numbers, I'll probably stick with them. Oh yeah, to answer your question, they have added CBS and Fox, but taken away one HD channel (INHD2) since it was cancelled. So all in all we've gained one HD channel in the last year. That's pretty pathetic. Oh I forgot ESPN2 HD, which never has any HD material on it. :rolleyes:

That sucks! I had all of those channels + Discovery HD, TNT HD, all the five netowrks in HD. This was a few years ago when I lived in B.G. near route 6.

That sucks! I had all of those channels + Discovery HD, TNT HD, all the five netowrks in HD. This was a few years ago when I lived in B.G. near route 6.

As far as I know, Time Warner Waterville and Time Warner Bowling Green are completely different. The difference is due to TWC Waterville being a converted Adelphia entity. The Bowling Green company has been owned by Time Warner for several years.

Yep schwa73, that's exactly right, and I'm hoping for more HD content before long.

Living in Perrysburg, I'm able to choose between TWC or Buckeye, or one of the dishes.

And while a switch back to Buckeye seems like a no-brainer, I'll being paying for it. Getting the exact same (or as close as possible) setup as I have now will require an extra $14 a month with Buckeye. And to get their HD content, I'll need to pay an extra $27 on top of that.

It's the price you pay for better selection, I suppose. :rolleyes:

Hello Toledo HD viewers.

Please check the first post of this topic and post any corrections and additions. I will update the first post as a reference.

Thanks.

Hello Toledo HD viewers.

Please check the first post of this topic and post any corrections and additions. I will update the first post as a reference.

Thanks.

Changes in RED

WTOL CBS 17 (11)
-1 CBS HD

WTVG ABC 19 (13)
-1 ABC HD
-2 ABC News Now (Now called: ABC TV Plus)
-3 WTVG Weather Now

WNWO NBC 49 (24)
-1 NBC HD
-2 The Tube music videos
-3 NBC Weather Plus

WGTE PBS 29 (30)
-1 PBS Digital/HD
-2 PBS Family
-3 PBS Create

WUPW FOX 46 (36)
-1 FOX HD


Buckeye Cablesystem HD lineup:

The CW HD [WT05]
CBS HD (11 Toledo) [WTOL]
ABC HD (13 Toledo) [WTVG]
NBC HD (24 Toledo) [WTOL]
PBS HD (30 Toledo) [WGTE]
FOX HD (36 Toledo) [WUPW]
TNT HD
NFL HD
Vs. HD
NBA HD
Discovery HD
ESPN HD
Sports Time Ohio HD
INHD Changed to MOJO
INHD2 (Eliminated)
Universal HD
HDNet
HDNet Movies
HGTV HD
Food Network HD
HBO HD
Cinemax HD
Starz HD
Showtime HD

Of course this will be changing very soon with buckeye adding:

ESPN2 HD, National Geographic HD, Fox Sports Ohio HD, Fox Sports Detroit HD, and also the Big Ten Network in HD. The timeline on this is unknown (although I hope they could get everything up by the start of College football season).

I just checked Big Ten Network's website and they confirm that Buckeye is getting BTN, and that it will be avliable starting prime time Aug 30th. No new info on NGHD, FSOHD, FSDHD or ESPN2HD, on any of their sites.

I wonder if anyone can shed some light on ESPNU either? They offer some college football that I like, but buckeye does not carry it, I bet it is to be packaged with ESPN2 HD...

Anyone here successfully get Buckeye Cable to waive or reduce the ridiculous $100 activation fee? Getting ready to head back to Toledo and I have to pay that $100 to get my TiVo HD S3 to work fully.

-VWebb

I just checked Big Ten Network's website and they confirm that Buckeye is getting BTN, and that it will be avliable starting prime time Aug 30th. No new info on NGHD, FSOHD, FSDHD or ESPN2HD, on any of their sites.

I wonder if anyone can shed some light on ESPNU either? They offer some college football that I like, but buckeye does not carry it, I bet it is to be packaged with ESPN2 HD...

Trabbic,
I know BCS is REAL close to adding new HD channels, like you mentioned. I'd say some to most will be "on-air" by end of August. Can't say for sure, but ESPNU should be part of it. It was one of those contracts that went back & forth to the lawyers. ABC wants to either re-do everything for you to get one additional channel, or just re-do ESPN channels, but throw in the Toledo ABC affli. as a gotcha. Also over-heard someone saying that THE DUECE did not have that HD material on it this Spring/Summer. Cannot confirm that, obviously.
Anyway, ESPNU should be part of the package. I do freelance work for ESPN Regional and always found it funny that the Rockets always had "U" games. Think ABC was trying to get BCS subscribers to complain to BCS? Would not suprise me.
Seems BCS does a good job of holding out for a better price than being the first system to jump on a channel. My wallet thanks them for that. If I find something new out from my sources, I'll let you know.

VidEditor

PS. BCS was one of the first few to sign up with The Big Ten Network. That will be HD for sure. Thier problem will be who goes LIVE & who is tape delayed. Wonder if they will be getting any games from ABC (for the tape delay replays). I will be doing work for them also this Fall. Should be fun! :rolleyes:

Hey guys... here is some new info about BCS HD additions. More is coming but thought you would like to know some channel numbers.
VE

From Buckeye:

"The Big Ten Network will premier on August 30, 2007 on channel 67 and the HD feed will be on 645. Fox Sports Ohio will be available within the next couple of weeks, and will be on channel 30; the HD feed will be on 644."

ESPN 2, Fox Detroit, Fox Ohio, Big Ten Network, and National Geographic HDs will all air at the end of this month.

I know this is kind of jumping the gun a bit, but I've been wondering how this will shake itself out in the end. When the conversion hits in early 2009, what will the effect be on our cable services, choices, and most importantly, our cable bill.

Assuming by that time that almost EVERYTHING will be broadcast in HD, are we going to have to pay extra for non-local HD content, as we are now?
Networks and cable channels will not be simultaneously broadcasting 480SD and 720+HD as they are now,(my understanding), so how will we be charged extra, other than having to get an HD box? Are we going to end up with cafeteria style packages that include groups of 10, 20, 30, or X number of HD channels with larger costs for larger packages?

I've got a bad feeling that in early 2009 my cable bill is going to be close to $100 just for the full HD content BEFORE premium channels, and if we don't get with the program, we'll be stuck with a "digital" box that will downgrade HD to 480 quality to watch on our 65" screens. :mad:

Is this the future of HD that we all looked forward to?
Any thoughts?

It will be a long long time before everything or almost everything is in HD.

The 2009 mandate has nothing to do with HD.

As Buckeye adds to their HD lineup will they have to compress the channels? Or is there plenty of bandwidth available?

I've found Buckeye's HD feed to be almost as good as over the air and much better than the DirecTV I've seen.

As Buckeye adds to their HD lineup will they have to compress the channels? Or is there plenty of bandwidth available?

I've found Buckeye's HD feed to be almost as good as over the air and much better than the DirecTV I've seen.


Hopefully not! Buckeye DOES have the best HD PQ of any Sat or cable system I have seen! Great stuff. It would be a shame if they messed with it by added compression.

As Buckeye adds to their HD lineup will they have to compress the channels? Or is there plenty of bandwidth available?

I've found Buckeye's HD feed to be almost as good as over the air and much better than the DirecTV I've seen.

I'll check on this... but from what I understand BCS should have the bandwidth. When they put in the fiber they went the extra mile & added more bandwidth than other systems. I also know they are dropping some of the analog services for older analog boxes, recouping so of that bandwidth. I'll find out...
VidEditor

the HD plus pak or the normal HD (free with box) package... I am guessing the Plus pak, but did not see that mentioned. Thanks

Not sure... the HD chans may be a mix. I know TBN is going basic, so hopefully the HD is basic also. They are still doing some last minute contract signing. TBN channel should start Friday night (ftball preview). The others by mid-August...meaning beginning of Sept.??? I'll let you know when I find out. Still waiting on a reply about the bandwidth concern.
VE

I guess it's official now! Channel change announcement from today's (Tues, 8/28) Blade:

HDTV Basic Pak New Channels:
FSN Detroit HD ch 643 effective 8/30/2007
FSN Ohio HD ch 644 effective 9/17/2007 (SD on ch 30)
Big Ten Network HD ch 645 effective 8/30/2007 (SD on ch 67)

HDTV Plus Pak New Channels:
National Geographic HD ch 649 effective 9/17/07
ESPN2 HD ch 652 effective 8/30/2007

Some other non-HD channels were added or moved as well.

Not a big sports fan, but National Geographic and the occasional Pistons game on FSN Detroit will be very nice.

Damn it. I hope D* follows suit with these channels because they are coming to install my HR20 and 5 LNB dish Saturday morning. I don't really want to switch but I had to so I can watch NFL Sunday Ticket.

Does anyone have an idea if/when Buckeye will offer VOD in HD?

Does anyone have an idea if/when Buckeye will offer VOD in HD?

Ahh yes that would be nice... I wonder if there are tech/bandwidth issues with that though?

Damn it. I hope D* follows suit with these channels because they are coming to install my HR20 and 5 LNB dish Saturday morning. I don't really want to switch but I had to so I can watch NFL Sunday Ticket.

I am in Lambertville and get FSNDetroit in HD with the HR20.

I also have the 5 LNB and have VOD (CE, which is a kinda BETA version)

Big Ten will be coming soon

Damn it. I hope D* follows suit with these channels because they are coming to install my HR20 and 5 LNB dish Saturday morning. I don't really want to switch but I had to so I can watch NFL Sunday Ticket.


Hey rocketknight, what are you doing about local networks (SD and HD)? I am thinking seriously about switching to D* from TWC/Adelphia out here in Waterville's region due to the lack of HD available and the new HD D* is bringing on-line. I'm just concerned about the quality of the install and the reception of the local HD networks.

As Buckeye adds to their HD lineup will they have to compress the channels? Or is there plenty of bandwidth available?

I've found Buckeye's HD feed to be almost as good as over the air and much better than the DirecTV I've seen.

Here's what I found out... By contract BCS has to carry an HD signal @ full bandwidth. SO no true compressing is allowed, however they can do some multiplexing of signals when they combine the HD channels into the fiber stream. They can use variable rate plexing so say a sports pgm with lots of info coming down the pipe gets more of the overall bandwidth than say a news progam. This way both pictures get the amount data stream it needs to look good. Like I said before, BCS built more bandwidth into their fiber build out than most cable systems were a few years back, so bandwidth should not be a problem according to my sources.
VE

Does anyone have an idea if/when Buckeye will offer VOD in HD?
I highly doubt this will happen soon and even if... bet you it's compressed enough that video-geeks won't care for it. The SD stuff is so compressed, especially the freeby stuff. Least it looks that way... Problem would be more of a disc space issue...

Here's what I found out... By contract BCS has to carry an HD signal @ full bandwidth. SO no true compressing is allowed, however they can do some multiplexing of signals when they combine the HD channels into the fiber stream. They can use variable rate plexing so say a sports pgm with lots of info coming down the pipe gets more of the overall bandwidth than say a news progam. This way both pictures get the amount data stream it needs to look good. Like I said before, BCS built more bandwidth into their fiber build out than most cable systems were a few years back, so bandwidth should not be a problem according to my sources.
VE

VE,

Thanks for the terrific explanation. I am a serious, hardcore HD user. PQ is king for me. Satellite PQ is so bad that I would stick to BD and HDDVD if that was all that was available.

I tell eveyone that Buckeye HD is perhaps the finest cable PQ you can find in the country. Heck the BigTen HD 720P even looks very good on my projector.

As long as the maintain the HD PQ I will be a long time customer.

Hey guys,

Here is an article that I found where they quote Jim Brown, the director of engineering at Buckeye (Dated 5/7/2007):

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6439357.html

A good trade article about the problems that Cable companies will be facing, and a bunch of solutions.

Here are the quotes that are about Buckeye:

The larger point: A slew of HD channels will arrive, eventually, and when they do, cable needs to be prepared. “The biggest push is HD content right now,” said Buckeye CableSystem director of engineering Jim Brown. “That’s a competitive thing, really.”

At Buckeye CableSystem, based in Toledo, Ohio, Brown said switched digital is “the most likely candidate” to help free up bandwidth to add more video-on-demand, HD and higher-speed data services. It’s early for the operator, but Brown said he anticipated making the move within the next 12 to 18 months.

“We don’t have the plan fully developed yet, but depending on where we end up with this thing, we’ll probably do a select group of channels that are not so highly viewed,” he said. Of the 86 channels in Buckeye’s digital tier, Brown said, around half will likely be candidates for switched digital video.

What is "switched digital video" ? Why don't they poll their demographic and get rid of the unwatched channels? I know it's not that easy.. but it sounds that the increased bandwidth is going to be a problem already.