I attended the Parade of Homes in Lubbock this weekend and Cox was setup in one of the houses demoing all of their services including their High Definition Service.

The Cox reps couldn't provide much info except that it will be available in the fall. One guy said the last time he checked the schedule, it showed Sept 12th for the launch date. Said not to count on that because it was originally scheduled for July.

They didn't know if they will rent the boxes or require users to purchase them...said it hasn't been decided yet. They were using a silver Motorola box for the demo...don't know what model it was...5100 maybe? They said pvr boxes would not be available until sometime next year.

Channel lineup sounded the same as everywhere else...ESPN, Discovery, HBO, Showtime, and the locals.

I talked to a guy at Hi-Fidelity yesterday and he said that Cox is going to be selling the boxes and Hi-Fidelity is going to be their exclusive retailer. He confirmed sometime in September. Not too surprising really, considering Cox is making customers purchase the box in most of their markets now. This is disheartening for many reasons, the 2 main ones are the 5100 (which is most likely the box they are going to be using) doesn't have a DVI output, and if they do upgrade to a PVR box, such as the 6200, I get the feeling they won't have any kind of upgrade plan.

Now, I used to work for Cox, so I got used to having to defend their business decisions, but this, to me, is just monumentally stupid. The one advantage that cable always trumpets over satellite is "no equipment to buy", so why make us purchase a STB? If I wasn't so dependant on my cable modem, I might consider dropping cable and going with a dish to get HDTV.

I'm not buying a box that doesn't have PVR. In fact, with basically no locals in HD, I probably wouldn't even buy one with PVR. There just isn't enough programming available right now for me to justify spending much more money on HD.

Interest in HDTV seems to be extremely low in Lubbock so I doubt they are going to have more than a handful of customers...even if they rent the boxes.

You mentioned locals in the original post. Besides KCBD (NBC), who else is broadcasting HDTV in Lubbock?

I stopped by the Cox office today. The customer rep there said to look for HDTV on Cox by November. Whether the boxes would be rented or sold was still up in the air. She said to look for movie channels and the locals. About 10 channels in all.

I guess something is better than nothing.

All of the locals are broadcasting a digital signal, but KCBD (NBC) is the only one broadcasting in 1080i. The others are all low-power 480i.

KCBD has three digital channels: 11-1 (NBC 1080i), 11-2 (NBC 480i), and 11-3 (Local Weather 480i).

I don't expect the other locals to upgrade to HD anytime soon.

Will the Cox feed be HDTV from the offending local's network broadcasts? I guess I need to seek out someone more knowledgeable at Cox. Maybe you still have some connections collven?

I have been within an inch of pulling the trigger on a new HDTV, but the lack of network HDTV programming (and programming in general) puts the brakes on every time. I don't think there is anything more disappointing than SD cable on a giant RPTV.

It is good to hear that Cox is coming with HD, at least where you guys are. I am in Tyler, and I too am real close to pulling the trigger on a new Mits HDTV. But I am told by the Mits dealer that Cox here is way behind on going HD. Like years away. I wonder how I would find out what kind of timetable they are on? I know if I just call their local office people, they won't really know anything.

I talked to the guys at Hi-Fidelity again yesterday. They again claimed that they will be the exclusive retailers for Cox's HD boxes. He said they will be the Motorola 6200 series, so I guess it will be this (http://broadband.motorola.com/noflash/dct6208.html) box. If so, it is a PVR. Now the bad news, it's not coming until the middle of November and the price will either be $599 or $699, I can't remember which. I'm pretty sure he said $699. For that price, I may as well go with a dish.

Cox called me yesterday with their monthly "can I sign you up for digital cable?" call. I gave them my usual response of "do you have high-def yet?". The answer was "not yet, but it should be in the next few weeks". The guy said he is going to a training class in a few days to learn about the service and he will follow up with me when he has all the details.

Maybe it's getting closer...

Wilmo,

Keep us posted on Cox. Here is some info on OTA in Lubbock:

KLBK and KAMC (cbs and abc) are neither broadcasting in HD currently.
I received an email from Mike Randolph and in it he explained that both stations were broadcasting a low level digital signal (480i) currently and that they have no plans to broadcast HD until sometime in 2006. This is not good news but it does at least explain why I have not been able to pick it up. I am angry in that I have been told by countless people who should have known that they were both broadcasting in HD.

I can tell you that both KCBD (nbc) and Fox are both broadcasting HD in Lubbock OTA. I am able to pick up both signals with a Silver Sensor antenna. The NBC signal is 1080i and the Fox signal is 720p.

I have not been able to get info on PBS yet, although my guess is that they are not HD ota now either.

That's exactly what I was told by an engineer at texassize back in the spring...except he didn't give any timeframe. I was pretty sure they hadn't changed because the 480i signal is coming in on -1, not -2 like kcbd.

I know how you feel. I've been told by people at Hi Fidelity, Soundwave, Cox, etc. that they are all HD. I think a lot of people think HD and digital are the same thing.

I'm getting both nbc and fox. Too bad fox still doesn't have any HD programming...at least it's widescreen.

Wilmo,

The Sunday NFL game on Fox is being broadcast HD at 720p and I am able to receive it that way. Also, the show "24" is being broadcast HD, but the quality is a bit soft to me. There are a few others as well.

Fox does not have any HD programming yet. They only have Fox Widescreen and Fox Enhanced Definition, or something like that, the resolution on those is either 480i or 480p.

We are only seeing it as 720p because our local station is upconverting it. It's the same way when you watch local NBC stuff on 11-1 with the blue-gray bars on the sides, it still says it's 1080i because that's what they are broadcasting.

You can't tell the resolution of the source material by what your receiver says.

Wilmo,

ok, you are no doubt right on this. It still looks better than those crappy digital signals that Cbs and Abc are broadcasting locally. JMHO

Yeah, it's definitely better.

Fox is supposed to start primetime shows in HD next fall.

I've been meaning to talk to the guys at Hi-Fidelity but I haven't gotten a chance. I know they will be carrying the boxes for Cox, so maybe they will know when the boxes will be here. Last time I talked to them, they said November.

Our local PBS station just started broadcasting HD. 39-3 is carrying HD programming in 1080i. Farm Aid is on right now and it looks really good. 39-1 and 39-2 are both 480i and carrying regular PBS programming. It looks like they have a seperate channel (39-3) just for the HD stuff.

Check out the classifieds in the AJ today in the legals for the Cox announcement. Talk about pathetic.

from their website. not exactly what the legal notice says in the AJ

http://www.cox.com/westtexas/hdtv/

What will I need to get High-Definition Service from Cox?

In order to view High-Definition programming you will need:
An HD Capable TV
An HD Converter
In order to view HD programming, you need only purchase an HD-Capable set (the one without the tuner built-in) You will be able to lease or purchase the equipment necessary to view HDTV signals delivered via Cox Digital Cable. To work with our first generation HDTV offering, your HDTV set or monitor must have a YPbPr component input.


How much is High-Definition Service from Cox?

You can lease the HD converter from Cox for $9.95 per month. The HD Converter will replace your current digital converter if you are a Cox Digital Cable customer. With the converter, you will receive local programming available in your area as well as InDemand HD1, InDemand HD2, ESPN HD, HBO HD and Showtime HD (HBO HD and Showtime HD are available as long as you are a current digital HBO and/or Showtime subscriber). There is a $49.95 installation fee for HD Service.

For an additional $4.95 per month you can add our Discovery HD Tier with Discovery HD Theater.*



*You must be a Cox Digital Cable customer in order to receive
High-Definition Service from Cox. Cox Digital Cable pricing starts at $52.74/mo.

Originally posted by wilmo
Our local PBS station just started broadcasting HD. 39-3 is carrying HD programming in 1080i. Farm Aid is on right now and it looks really good. 39-1 and 39-2 are both 480i and carrying regular PBS programming. It looks like they have a seperate channel (39-3) just for the HD stuff.

Wilmo,

I just checked PBS out. Wow, incredible image on 39-3! Thanks for the heads up.

The PBS HD schedule is here (http://www.ptvdigital.org/dt2a_dec.html#dec7). Note that the times are EST.

The travel show that comes on at 6:30 has some really incredible images.

That's a great link. Too bad they show so much of the same stuff because it really is amazing. I did watch the travel show on Belgium....wow! I am not exactly interested in Belgium, but I could not escape the PQ.

are you and I the only ones in Lubbock enjoying this or what?

Wilmo,

Here is a pretty good site:

http://www.titantv.com/ttv/Home/Home.aspx

Well, it's official. Cox HD is now available to order. Here (http://www.cox.com/WestTexas/HDTV/default.asp) is the link to their site for info. I'm calling today to get setup. Not much programming yet. The 2 HD InDemand channels will offer free programming, not PPV. I wonder about KCBD, since they don't list it on their site. Hopefully, it's available. I checked Midland and Amarillo, they both list their local CBS affiliates as available. Too bad KLBK isn't available here yet.

NBC, PBS, and Fox are all broadcasting HD (technically Fox isn't HD, but they do have 480p widescreen shows). I don't expect to see CBS or ABC anytime in the next year or two.

IMO, this service is not worth the money right now. My tv has a built in tuner so I can already get the locals OTA. I'm not going to upgrade to digital cable, add a cable box, and pay more on top of that just to watch ESPNHD.

I think I'll pass for now...

I don't have a built in tuner, so it's either go with Cox or buy a $400 or $500 STB, which I really don't want to do right now. I would rather wait until STB's with PVR built in come down in price some. This will do fine until then. If you already have digital cable, which I do, it's only $6 more per month, unless you add DiscoveryHD, which I don't plan on doing right now. Also, I found out KCBD is included. It's on ch 709. Unfortunately, I have to wait until Monday to get installed.

What happened to HDNet? Is it not on Cox HD service?

I was able to pull in the NBC local from Cox with a STB that is QAM compatible. No Fox and No PBS.

Are other areas charging for Discovery HD? That seems like a rip to me.
I am guessing that CBS and ABC will not be available in HD via Cox until the Texas Size group starts their HD broadcasts. This according to their station mgrs will be in Jan 06 when the FCC makes them.

Sometimes I wish I lived in a more progressive city.

I don't currently have digital cable. I dropped it a long time ago because we rarely watched the extra channels. Most of the channels are still analog, so there was no reason to pay extra for a couple of channels. I also like the flexibility of not having a cable box...PIP, Tivo, etc...

If my tv did not have a built-in HD tuner, then I would be signing up for the HD package. Since it does, and I don't subscribe to the movie channels, it's not worth the additional cost just to watch espn hd.

Other Cox areas are charging for Discovery. In fact, all of the other areas I have looked at are charging $9.95 for Discovery and ESPN. Lubbock is the first one I have seen that includes ESPN in the HD tier. Maybe because we only have one network in HD they feel like they need to include something else in the base ?

Well, my install was today. Good and bad news. I was pleasantly surprised that they gave my a Moto 6200 instead of the 5100. Also, the install was only $18.99, not $49.99 like on the website. However, I am getting really bad tiling. They are going to have to send a maintenance person out sometime in the next couple of days to check the pedestal in the alley. Also, no KCBD. I didn't get a chance to ask the tech if he knew anything about it, I'll probably call my friend in tech support and see if he knows anything about it. It's hard to tell how good the quality is, since my picture doesn't stay clear long enough to see it very well.
Another pleasant surprise is that, since it is hooked up through component and not DVI (not active yet, although there is a port), my Toshiba 51H83 is allowing me to stretch all non-HD programming through the component inputs, so no input switching necessary.

When you ask about KCBD, also ask about FOX and PBS. They are both broadcasting HD now.

Keep us informed of your experiences with the new service...

KCBD was supposed to be available at launch, but there was some kind of ingress problem with their tower, so Cox and KCBD are still working on getting that fixed. No word on any of the other local channels.
I was also under the impression that Fox is not broadcasting HD yet. Isn't is just digital, something like 480P?

Yeah, I think they call it Enhanced Def or something like that. It's 480p and widescreen, so it's dvd quality. They are supposed to start true HD with the 2004 fall season. The local FOX is actually broadcasting in 720p, but of course everything is just upconverted...

Hey collven,

Anything new to report now that you've had the service for a week?


Has anyone else here signed up for it?

Well, I'm still waiting for the tiling to be fixed. Apparently, it goes further up the line than my hookup in the alley. Maintenance has looked at it twice, still not any better. The channels look great when they are actually working, heh. Oh well, I've gotten credit for my service since the install, so it's not all bad.

Any word on PBS or Fox thru Cox? Additionally, I understand why Cox can't carry local CBS and ABC because our Texas Size stations don't currently broadcast in HD, but couldn't they pick up some kind of national feed? I guess I really don't know enough about the particulars to guess.

This according to Cox today: The problems they are having have to do with a firmware upgrade to the Motorola DCT 6200's. This should be fixed this week and they are not accepting new HD installs until then. Also it is up in the air as to the install charges being 18.99 or 49.99 when they continue. I was told that if you were on analog service currently that you do not have to upgrade to digital cable to get the service although the website shows otherwise. DVI out is not enabled but should be when that particular firmware becomes available to Cox. I was told the two In Demand channels are pay per view although Collven reported earlier in this thread they are free??? Only local you will get is NBC, and ABC and CBS will not be carried until Texas Size starts broadcasting in HD which according to them will be Jan 2006. You can buy your own STB and not pay the monthly 9.95 rental, but there are no local b&m stores carrying it yet.

The In Demand (InHD) channels are free. It says so very clearly on their website, and I think on Cox's also. I have seen several posts where people were incorrectly told they were PPV by customer service reps...just another case of CSR's not knowing much about their product.

Did you ask them about Fox and PBS?

Everytime I call Cox I get different answers to my questions. The first csr I spoke to today said they offer ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC all in HD. I told him he was wrong. He later put me thru to a technical dude who confirmed only NBC of the locals. I asked this guy when they would get Fox and PBS? He did not know and only said they are in negotiations with PBS. When asked about Fox he said they are not broadcasting in HD. I told him that they were broadcasting OTA with an upconverted digital signal that was pretty sweet considering, and he did not seem to know much about it. Then he said they will offer the other locals (CBS and ABC) as they come available..........hmmmmmmmmmm........Jan 2006.

I called back a second time because it seemed strange they told me this morning that you did not have to have digital cable to get the hd. At their site it says you do. I was also puzzled about the In Demand being ppv or free. First, the CSR I get this time says you get NBC and CBS and FOX in HD but no ABC. Do they not train these people? I told him he was wrong.
I told him what I knew to be correct and he put me on hold for 5 minutes and came back and confirmed he was wrong. I then asked if you have to be a digital subscriber to get their hd? He said no. I then asked why their website shows otherwise. He put me on hold for another 5 minutes. When he returned he explained that you can be on analog and get the ESPN, NBC, and Discovery Channels with their current STB. There is a charge for the Discovery. To get HBOhd and Showtimehd and I think the In Demand offerings you have to be on Digital.
I asked about the In Demand and he immediately says it's free. I then ask what does it show on those channels. His response was pay per view movies that you order. I ask if those movies are free. He said no. I then ask why he just told me they were free then. He says the channels are free but the shows it offers are not. Hopefully Collven who has the service can shed some light on this.

Their site seems to be down right now, but here (http://www.inhd.com/index.jsp) is a link to InDemand HD's website. Also check out the HDTV Programming board here for more info. Just do a search for INHD. It is free and it's mainly old movies, old and new NBA games, and some small college sports.

Collven,

Thanks for clearing that up. I swear, the csr's at Cox are clueless. I guess my next question to you would be do you have access to pay per view movies in hd? Also, once all the bugs are worked out I would appreciate hearing from you on how happy you are with the service in general. thanks.

They are clueless. I have learned that you cannot trust anything they tell you. I always ask them questions that I already know the answers to just to see if they know what they are talking about.

I don't think they have any PPV in HD yet. Haven't really checked though. I'll agree the csr's don't have much info on this yet, which is why I talk to someone in tech support. You gotta realize, most of the csr's have just enough technical knowledge to check their email and access the billing system on their computers. They aren't into HD and stuff like that. They're just there to sell you HBO and to help with billing errors. I get the impression that Cox has run into some problems getting their HD going, as evidenced by the lack of KCBD on HD, which was supposed to be part of the rollout. It seems like every time one of the local channels turns on their digital signal, or even tests it out, it causes ingress problems somewhere on Cox's lineup.

collven,

Anything new to report?

Sorry, been out of town the last couple of weeks. Nothing new, still have tiling. They are coming back tomorrow.

We went to the Home and Garden show last weekend. I stopped by the Cox booth and asked if they had any locals on the HD service yet. The lady told me not yet, but they are working on a deal with kcbd.

She said, "They are the only one broadcasting HD right now."
Me: No, actually PBS is, too.
Cox Lady: No they aren't.
Me: Yes they are...on 39-3...I've been watching it.
Cox Lady: Well, Sue (don't remember the actual name) at PBS told me that they are not broadcasting HD yet because they don't have all of the necessary equipment.
Me: Well, that's interesting because I've been watching it for a while.
Cox Lady: You're just getting digital it's not HD.
Me: The picture quality is way beyond digital, it's obviously HD.
Cox Lady: Well, it has to be 1080i to be HD.
Me: My tv says it is 1080i.
Cox Lady: Well they aren't broadcasting it.
Me: Well, I'm getting it...pretty amazing, huh?

I didn't bother mentioning that kjtv is also broadcasting 720p...figured it was pointless. She actually seemed much more intelligent than the average cox employee. I think she just had some bad info.

Amazing but typical.

I'm not positive, but I think the thing holding up KCBD is their multicasting. I don't think Cox is too hot on carrying all of KCBD's channels, but KCBD won't agree to a deal unless Cox changes their minds.

I dumped my Cox HD Service here in VA. They are way behind in HDTV channels. The six that I did get wasn't enough for me and also the programs on those HD channels keep repeating. I was bored with Cox HD in a month and switched over to Voom. I am leasing all the equipment from Voom and it was free installation. Is Voom in your area yet??

I briefly had CoxHd in lubbock. When I signed up, I was told all locals broadcasting in HD were available on the service. Imagine my suprise when none were available. I emailed a CSR about this, as well as information about adding more HD. Here was the response I received on 4/23:

Thank you for contacting Cox Communications, and we empathize and understand your concerns.

We are familiar with the HD formatting of the channels your mentioned, and other channels that will also be formatting to High Definition
programming. At this time we do not have any more room to add these
channels and are working on our QAM conversion diligently to get more bandwidth.

We have bee working and negotiating for bandwidth and retransmission agreements since last December. Until our bandwidth contacts and retransmission agreements can be resolved, we are unable to provide or add any additional HD programming at this time. We do want to launch these HD channels. We are striving to make this happen and apologize that we are unable to provide an estimated time when we will have a resolution. Please be assured, once we are able we will advise our customers.

Our HDTV programming for Lubbock at this time is:

702 NBC HD (KCBD- involved in the retransmission agreements) 710 Discovery HD 420 ESPN HD 730 In Demand 1 HD
731 In Demand 2 HD
740 HBO HD

We hope that we have been able to provide you with the information you requested. If we have not, or if we can be of any additional service to you, please do not hesitate to contact us again.

Thank you.
Dinah
Quality Analyst
Cox Communications Customer Care Team



I also have a problem with the pq on Cox. Right now I have Voom, and the OTA they provided gives me NBC and FOX. But CBS and ABC remain elusive.

Is KJTV34 transmitting HD yet?

Fox34 is currently broadcasting in 720p. However, Fox national currently is only doing 480p widescreen. They're upconverting the material. Fox will do the All Star game in 720p, and will begin doing 720p for primetime and Nfl in the fall

Originally posted by squicken
Fox34 is currently broadcasting in 720p. However, Fox national currently is only doing 480p widescreen. They're upconverting the material. Fox will do the All Star game in 720p, and will begin doing 720p for primetime and Nfl in the fall

I worked at KJ about 10 years ago. The owners have always been aggressive when it comes to technology and I knew they'd be doing DTV as soon as possible. KAMC and KLBK are in the stone ages compared to KJ.

Originally posted by mitchrc
I worked at KJ about 10 years ago. The owners have always been aggressive when it comes to technology and I knew they'd be doing DTV as soon as possible. KAMC and KLBK are in the stone ages compared to KJ.

I've been trying to talk to someone at 28 and 11 for 2 weeks now w/o getting my emails or calls returned. I just found this thread, and it confirmed my fears that they'll be sitting on their rears until someone makes them do something. I live 3.5 miles from the abc tower and can't get the digital reception. I am trying to figure out a way to get a distant local.

BTW I talked to the engineer at 34, and he talked my ear off. He told me they'll be the first to be producing the local news in HD. What's funny is RAMAR also owns UPN, and he said that UPN won't be getting a digital tower up for at least a year.

Originally posted by squicken
I've been trying to talk to someone at 28 and 11 for 2 weeks now w/o getting my emails or calls returned. I just found this thread, and it confirmed my fears that they'll be sitting on their rears until someone makes them do something. I live 3.5 miles from the abc tower and can't get the digital reception. I am trying to figure out a way to get a distant local.

You may be experiencing overload. My understanding is KAMC is transmitting digital, it just isn't HD. You might try an attenuator.

Originally posted by squicken
BTW I talked to the engineer at 34, and he talked my ear off. He told me they'll be the first to be producing the local news in HD. What's funny is RAMAR also owns UPN, and he said that UPN won't be getting a digital tower up for at least a year.

Believe it or not, I know from your description exactly who you're talking about. They're news facility is state of the art and all digital. Even now their news probably looks really good on their digital channel. When they bought all the gear they probably bought field cameras that are switchable to widescreen so all they have to do is throw that switch and upconvert to 720p.

UPN is, or was, a low power station so I don't know what their digital plans are, unless RAMAR bought another full power frequency in Lubbock, which was only recently made legal. They could always just add UPN to their KJTV digital signal and put it on 34.2. I work for CBS/UPN now and the only show we air in HD is Enterprise.

I worked there for 5 years in the early 90s. It was the best station I ever worked for and the Morans have remained friends to this day. They run a great shop and many of their employees have been there for 10-20 years.

I can confirm that KJTV's news looks very good on their digital channel.

The local PBS is also broadcasting 1080i on 39-3. Check out the Smart Travels show in the evenings...it looks incredible!

39.3? That's odd. The standard is usually to put your HDTV on .1. I wish the stations would standardize on this.

Is KJTV or KCBD doing any multicasting?

Originally posted by mitchrc
39.3? That's odd. The standard is usually to put your HDTV on .1. I wish the stations would standardize on this.

Is KJTV or KCBD doing any multicasting?

KJTV isn't, at least not yet. NBC has .1HD, .2SD, .3Weather. People tell me multicasting is supposed to degrade the HD signal, but I haven't noticed a problem yet.
BTW, I finally talked to engineers at KAMC and KLBK. They said no HD plans, and no plans to increase power on digital towers. I don't expect to see the Masters or MNF in HD in Lubbock until at least 2009. I'm pretty sure they'll be just digital come 2006. I'm really glad that KJTV and KCBD are being run by far-sighted management.

Hey Lubbock guys, Cox is supposedly going to offer HD service in the College Station area this June, and I was wondering if any of you knew if the Lubbock HD local(s) are being passed through unencrypted. I'm a D* subscriber and would really like to avoid digital cable if I could get by with a basic subscription and a QAM tuner. We have some locals here that are unobtainable OTA - FOX at 1 kW and ABC/NBC 80 miles away, so Cox might be our best bet. Thanks for your help.

Originally posted by squicken
KJTV isn't, at least not yet. NBC has .1HD, .2SD, .3Weather. People tell me multicasting is supposed to degrade the HD signal, but I haven't noticed a problem yet.


It does, slightly. It should affect KJTV less since they're using 720p, which takes less bandwidth, if and when they start doing it.

Originally posted by elspankdog
Hey Lubbock guys, Cox is supposedly going to offer HD service in the College Station area this June, and I was wondering if any of you knew if the Lubbock HD local(s) are being passed through unencrypted. I'm a D* subscriber and would really like to avoid digital cable if I could get by with a basic subscription and a QAM tuner. We have some locals here that are unobtainable OTA - FOX at 1 kW and ABC/NBC 80 miles away, so Cox might be our best bet. Thanks for your help.

Cox isn't broadcasting any of the digital locals in Lubbock yet. I'm betting that when they do, they will be encrypted.

Originally posted by wilmo
Cox isn't broadcasting any of the digital locals in Lubbock yet. I'm betting that when they do, they will be encrypted.

Wow, that sucks. I thought you guys were at least getting CBS, but now I see that only Midland and Abilene are. I guess I'm hoping that early on the locals might not be encrypted even though Cox seems to encrypt their locals in other areas.

We won't be getting CBS for a long time because our local CBS/ABC (same ownership) has no plans to upgrade to HD... :mad:

If you're lucky CBS will eventually offer to pick up the tab like Fox has.

I would also be interested in this info, as Cox is beginning HD service here in Tyler in June as well.

I am in Lubbock and have analog Cox cable. My STB is QAM compatible and if I run a branch off my analog cable coax to it, I am able to receive NBC in HD. All the other Cox HD offerings in Lubbock are scrambled. Since Cox does not offer PBS or Fox as HD or psuedo HD, I do not receive them via this method. As Wilmo said previously, CBS and ABC are in limbo until TexasSize steps up to the plate. One funny thing is that recently on the NBC HD, I have been experiencing a lot of drop outs. Not sure if this is happening OTA also.

Thanks manpig (and I thought elspankdog was bad), that's what I wanted to hear.

Brian

I have DirecTV and was wondering if you can qualify to pick up the CBS HD Feed from LA or NY on DirecTV since the local affiliate has no intention of upgrading.

Does anyone know if this qualifies or if not if the local station will sign a waiver letter?

It depends on how far you are from the towers. I called and asked the guy at ABC (same company) and he said I was too close to get a waiver. No one in the entire company will give any sort of answer on when they plan to even increase digital signal. There is some talk on other avs threads that Congress might allow HD feeds to unserved HD areas, but it is very unlikely. If you can't get a waiver, you can always go through a Canadian DBS, but it's VERY expensive. Call and see. The worst they can say is no.

I heard via a radio sportstalk show (KKAM), that one of the local sportsbars was broadcasting Monday Night Football in HD last season. I can't recall the name of the bar but it seems like it was Jake's. Can anyone verify this? If this is true, then there has to be a way to get a satellite feed from CBS and ABC in HD in Lubbock.

Note to elspankdog: I forgot to tell you that with a QAM STB, you should be able to pull in some of the digital offerings that are on a higher tier with Cox. Exp: Golf channel, and Chicano MTV, Soccer and Tennis channels, IFC, all the music channels, and a few others.

Is anyone interested in getting an ISF calibration done in the Lubbock area? There is a highly regarded calibrator in DFW area named Steve Martin. He will travel to Lubbock, but his travel costs must be covered. I was hoping to get some others involved to help share these travel costs. If you're interested, PM me. Here is Steve's website www.smartcalibration.com

I had my Hitachi calibrated last summer by Bill Gambrell from Denver. He did a great job. It was definitely worth the money. Even my wife noticed a big difference!

Cox downloaded new firmware to their boxes last night to enable the DVI and firewire ports on the back of the box. Finally! Now I gotta find me a DVI cable.

Squicken, I would love to have my set calibrated, but I really don't think I could afford it right now. About how much is it going to be?

It depends on your set and how many inputs. If you have a DLP or LCD, prices start at $300. Plasma and CRT-RPTV can get $500+ in some cases.

I would be interested in a calibration sometime later this year. How many calibrations would we need to schedule in order to make this worthwhile?

Any news on additional HDTV channels from Cox? I keep checking the website and I keep being disappointed. The firmware news is very nice to hear. I will be interested to hear if you see any improvement using DVI collven.

Jason_J

I think 3 or 4 total will be enough. It depends on exactly what is required. I'm still waiting on additional information from Steve. Round trip airfare would be about $80, and assuming he doesn't require a hotel (if all done in 1 day) or rental car, it would only cost us each $20-$30 for travel.

Originally posted by Jason_J
I would be interested in a calibration sometime later this year. How many calibrations would we need to schedule in order to make this worthwhile?

Any news on additional HDTV channels from Cox? I keep checking the website and I keep being disappointed. The firmware news is very nice to hear. I will be interested to hear if you see any improvement using DVI collven.

Jason_J

My DVI cable is on order. I'm really not expecting much of an improvement in quality. I mainly just need an available component input.

2 months since the last post here???? is there no new news on HD and Cox?

I am still using OTA, and have to say that last weeks Dallas and Minnesota game on Fox was out of this world. I could see sweat bubbling on the arms of the players. Too bad Dallas lost tho.

I have been having some problems with NBC OTA. The Olympics were great but since have had times where a HD program is not being displayed in HD. Then at other times other shows do come in as HD. I sent an email to the station asking if they were having some problemos and got no response. Can anyone else confirm this? Are Cox customers getting NBC, PBS, and FOX in HD yet? Any word on ABC and CBS getting any public pressure to get their act together?

Originally posted by wilmo
I had my Hitachi calibrated last summer by Bill Gambrell from Denver. He did a great job. It was definitely worth the money. Even my wife noticed a big difference!

Wilmo,

I have heard alot about Bill Gambrell. Not suprised you were pleased with his efforts. Which Hitachi do you have and what was the cost of the isf?

Originally posted by manpig
2 months since the last post here???? is there no new news on HD and Cox?

I am still using OTA, and have to say that last weeks Dallas and Minnesota game on Fox was out of this world. I could see sweat bubbling on the arms of the players. Too bad Dallas lost tho.

I have been having some problems with NBC OTA. The Olympics were great but since have had times where a HD program is not being displayed in HD. Then at other times other shows do come in as HD. I sent an email to the station asking if they were having some problemos and got no response. Can anyone else confirm this? Are Cox customers getting NBC, PBS, and FOX in HD yet? Any word on ABC and CBS getting any public pressure to get their act together? In Lubbock, they temporarily had NBC-HD for the Olympics. But now it's gone. No networks, and nothing else added. They told me their trying to work out deals with the networks and are out of bandwidth for the others. If you can get OTA, I think you're better off. FOX in HD was OK this past weekend, and is supposed to keep getting better.

manpig - I have a 65xwx...I think that's the right combo of letters...it was the top of the line model when I bought it. I think I paid about $400 including part of his travel expense. He was making a long tour of Texas so the travel expense was shared by several people. That was more than a year ago and I think he was about to raise his rates.

Cox does have PBS in HD now. That's still it as far as anything local. I still think, as far as KCBD, they are trying to force Cox to carry all of their multicast channels.

Thanks wilmo. Good news Collven. It will be great for you Cox customers when you get the Fox also. Regarding KCBD, I can tell you that at least OTA, that the HD offerings were better this week so far. I received Father of the Pride in HD this week and it was unbelievable. I also received Vegas and one of the Law and Orders in HD.

Sidebar: I was wondering the other day just how many HD sets have been sold in Lubbock thus far. It has to be a pretty large number by now.
I would also conclude that those people who own a HD set are big spenders and as such should be the target of the advertisers spending their marketing dollars with the television stations in Lubbock. As a HD television owner, I find myself gravitating to the HD offerings. I don't think I am alone in this. I guess I just don't understand why our TexasSize ABC and CBS stations are not getting on board. I've called them several times and voiced my displeasure, and I would guess maybe some of you others have as well. Maybe I should start my focus on their advertisers. Maybe then they will wake up and smell the coffee if they lose their revenue source. JMHO.

Good idea manpig.

So, did KJTV turn on their signal yet? I heard someone say they have, but according to the official Fox thread, it's still pending.

You'll be able to tell by the placement of the bug during network programming. You'll see a KJTV bug at the very edge of the 16x9 screen.

Yeah, KJTV is on. The NFL games look great!

The official fox thread at avs in the programming area does show KJTV as pending. I called Fox and one of their people confirmed they are broadcasting in HD. I asked him if it was 720P and he said huh? He said I would have to talk to the head engineer to find that out and I said ok put me thru. I got voice mail and left a message. I will confirm if he calls me back. I agree with wilmo that they are indeed broadcasting in 720P and on my Denon Receiver the audio stream comes in at Dolby 5.1.

My tv shows 720p, but not 5.1 for kjtv.

Not everything is 5.1. For NFL games, I get DD 5.1 and 720p. Picture is not as good as ESPN-HD, but this is Fox national problem, not a local one.

I did get an oral confirmation from KJTV that they are indeed broadcasting exactly what Fox sends them. In other words, if the program is 720p and Dolby 5.1 that is what they are sending out. Their current output is 10,000 watts and they have plans to increase their output bwo a higher tower to 1/2 mega watts in the next 12 months or so. They have the potential to lose customers in the far reaching surrounding cities if they don't do this when the FCC deadline occurs (July 06). In other words, if they are currently serving Clovis via analog and their digital signal does not reach that far then someone else could put up a tower in Clovis and take over their market. This is why a strong signal is imperative to these guys. The cost for this is great but their hands are tied.

Regarding UPN, the news is not as good. They do not yet have an application pending for a digital channel yet with the FCC but plan to apply soon. They do not anticipate a digital UPN signal in the next 12 months.

I just found this forum. I live in northwest Lubbock near 28th and Chicago. I have a Samsung SIR-T351 and a Radio Shack U75-R outdoor antenna. I get KTXT-DT,KCBD-DT,KLBK-DT(such as it is); and KJTV-DT, but cannot get but about 0.5 bars of KAMC. I had to erect the outside antenna to get KLBK-DT with 5 bars. Antennaweb indicates that ABC and CBS are about the same distance from me in the same direction, but I bet no signal on ABC while CBS is rock solid (exceptwhen the wind blows). Any suggestions of how to pull in ABS's measly 96 watt transmission from 4.5 miles away. I have ordered a Zenith Silver Sensor indoor antenna maybe it will do what the RS outdoor will not...OH WELL!!!

Originally posted by mitchrc
You'll be able to tell by the placement of the bug during network programming. You'll see a KJTV bug at the very edge of the 16x9 screen.

Glad to see you're keeping up with your old stomping grounds from L.A.
SM

I'm in the same boat as you. I tried an outdoor Square shooter with a rotor, could never consistently get KAMC. I live at South 289 and Quaker, also close to tower. KAMC-DT doesn't look all that good anyway, and I bugged them enough to give me a waiver, so I get the NYC ABC. No HD, but better than analog w/ rabbitt ears.

Originally posted by Jim5506
I just found this forum. I live in northwest Lubbock near 28th and Chicago. I have a Samsung SIR-T351 and a Radio Shack U75-R outdoor antenna. I get KTXT-DT,KCBD-DT,KLBK-DT(such as it is); and KJTV-DT, but cannot get but about 0.5 bars of KAMC. I had to erect the outside antenna to get KLBK-DT with 5 bars. Antennaweb indicates that ABC and CBS are about the same distance from me in the same direction, but I bet no signal on ABC while CBS is rock solid (exceptwhen the wind blows). Any suggestions of how to pull in ABS's measly 96 watt transmission from 4.5 miles away. I have ordered a Zenith Silver Sensor indoor antenna maybe it will do what the RS outdoor will not...OH WELL!!!

I am near 90th and Chicago and can get ABC with a Silver Sensor. I have to aim it more north than I do for KLBK and KCBD and KJTV. I seem to recall it has to do with their core vector of their antenna at KMAC being directed more in a northerly direction. The question then becomes why would you even care. The signal is so damn weak and I get better PQ off of Cox's analog ABC.

KAMC's special permit to broadcast at reduced power is up for renewal in March 2005. I wonder if several hundred or more protestations for its renewal would either block its renewal or prompt them to get off the dime and operate at higher output. At least we could let them know there are people who care that they are dragging their feet.

How would we go about protesting?

Is KAMC passing HD? Even if they increased power who cares if they're just simulcasting their SD signal?

Interestingly, this morning I have been receiving 34.1 and 34.2 from KJTV. 34.2 has no programming, but there is a signal there. I wonder if KJTV is getting ready to multicast something.

There is a comment period for each license renewal. I don't know if this applies to these 'waiver' or 'special' licenses.

I was hoping someone out there would know.

As for KAMC passing HD, I can't even receive their measley SD signal where I live (6 miles from transmitter according to antennaweb). I would like to be able to TiVo the SD signal for certain shows we watch because the analog signal is also erratic (ghosty) here.

To answer someone's earlier question: No, KAMC is not broadcasting HD nor is their other station KLBK. As far as protesting their weakass digital signal, ok count me in. I suppose we can all affix rabbit ears to our TT hats and do a march or sumpin around their parking lot. It could draw some media attention......oh crap........they ARE the media. Nevermind.

KJTV is now broadcasting its weather channel (analog 32) on 34.2 in SD.

What are they programming on the weather channel?

KJTV ch 34 also broadcasts an automated weather series on Ch 32 a low power station.

It goes through a visible satelite loop, a radar loop, a local forcast loop, and current conditions over audio from a local talk radio station.

This is now mirrored on digital channel 34.2.

KCBD does a similar thing with its channel 11.3, with no audio.

These weather broadcasts are very valuable in "tornado country".

In times of severe weather live weather alerts and information are substituted for the automated loops.

Thanks Jim. I used to work there years ago and am always interested in keeping up with what they're doing. Do you see any of their local talent on this channel or is it just weather graphics?

On the occasion of severe weather they go to a live feed from their "Weather Center".

Each major network station in the area has very good live weather capabilities including live doppler weather radar and multiple meteorologists (sp) who have excellecnt graphics and forecasting capabilities.

Being both an agricultiral area and in the tornado belt, weather around here IS a big deal.

You may recall that 15-20 years ago downtown Lubbock was struck by a tornado. That'll get your attention!!

Is there a DTV or DHTV users group active here in Lubbock? I was just on the Albuquerque forum and they seem to be much more active than Lubbock as far as posting is concerned.

We sort of are. There just isn't much information. TexaSize owns both KAMC and KLBK, and the General Manager of those stations told me they won't be moving to HD or even full power digital until the government make them.

Ramar owns both UPN and FOX in town. They've told me there aren't any close plans as far as making UPN HD capable, and I know nothing nor care about the WB.

As far as quality:

FOX has some issues, but because of the splicer, it really isn't anything on the local end they can do, if I recall correctly.

Now NBC and PBS bug me. Their multi-casting really looks bad. And I have no idea exactly what PBS HD is. It seems completely different than regular PBS. The Jack Johnson special the other night, did anyone watch? Was it HD?

The only local channel I watch in HD is Fox, and it's hard to know what the deal is b/c FOX national admits there are problems with the splicer.

If you know new anything or have questions, there are a few of us around who pay attention :)

Welcome to the forum, such as it is.

Originally posted by squicken
We sort of are. There just isn't much information. TexaSize owns both KAMC and KLBK, and the General Manager of those stations told me they won't be moving to HD or even full power digital until the government make them.

They'll start getting pressure from their networks long before the government does anything.

Originally posted by squicken
The only local channel I watch in HD is Fox, and it's hard to know what the deal is b/c FOX national admits there are problems with the splicer.

What problems are you referring to with the splicer?

I have watched KCBD, KJTV and KTXT all in HD from time to time and have found their picture quality to be excellent.

I have a Samsung SIR-T351 and I borrow an Epson PowerLite 81p projector from work occasionally to watch football or when I happen to have it available at home. I have been really pleased with all the HD content that I've seen. I haven't persuaded my wife to replace the SD TV (Toshiba 32") in the living room yet but I'm working on it. She even admitted to the great picture I project on the wall of my 'office'.

Perhaps complaints from us to ABC and CBS directly and specifically aimed at KAMC and KLBK would be in order.

I realize that 5.3 (KTXT-DT3) only broadcasts HD 50% of the time in the evenings, but what I've seen has been impressive - maybe I'm easily impressed. All their 5.3 content is wide screen, some of that is HD. they also tend to show the same thing over and over and over - limited content, I guess.

I look at www.titantv.com to check for HD content, it seems to be pretty accurate.

I watch NBC, FOX, and PBS in HD via OTA all the time. The quality has been great with the exception of some of the dramas that are purposefully shot soft. The content and quantity of new programming at PBS leaves alot to be desired IMHO.

I have heard rumors that our TexasSize stations are in financial trouble which could explain their decision to just do the bare minimum as it relates to the FCC. Word has it that they are looking to sell the stations. Hopefully that is correct and there will be a buyer soon that has the finances to bring them forward.

I have heard statements thrown around on local sportsradio talk shows, that certain sports bars in Lubbock offer MNF in HD. I find this hard to believe. If anyone can confirm this and also confirm how I would greatly appreciate it.

The problems with FOX are most evident during some football games. Dancing grass, motion artifacts, grainy or dark looking. In the HDTV Programming forum, these problems are reported in other locals. Apparently the bit rate is being sent out at low levels.

I'm by no means an expert, but football on ESPN HD looks much better than FOX (both 720p) to me. People who work at FOX affiliates admit the dancing grass is a known issue, and it has gotten better recently (although the GN/SEattle game was bad looking.

The only HD show on FOX I watch is Arrested Development, and that looks very nice. I have DirecTV, with the HR!0-250 DVR.

Originally posted by manpig


I have heard statements thrown around on local sportsradio talk shows, that certain sports bars in Lubbock offer MNF in HD. I find this hard to believe. If anyone can confirm this and also confirm how I would greatly appreciate it.

You can "move", so as to get the NY/LA feeds over the satellite dish. TexaSize will also grant you waivers if you live a certain distance from town.

Hi guys, live in Lubbock also; Sunridge area near 98th and Slide. Have Sony Wega KF-50WE610 HDTV (no OTA tuner) and depend on Cox for HD content.

Had considered going with DISH and using 811 receiver to receive the OTA channels. Don't think it is worth it considering that on Feb 1st DISH is raising rates $3.00/mo as well as the problems w/ two of the local network stations you all have been alluding to.

I sent an email to Cox about 6 weeks ago inquiring about the status of HD locals. I need to find their reply and post it here.

WTXD

Welcome to the 'club'.

I have an HD tuner (Samsung SIR-T351) I picked up on eBay, but no HDTV as of yet. I also have A TiVo Series 2 stand alone hooked to a Dishnetwork 301 and a Dish PVR 510. I use my HD tuner with a SD tv, and even there I can see an improvement in the PQ over analog channels no ghosts at all no snow, no static.

As I've said before my only problem is the super low power of KAMC and KLBK. I was going to try to raise my outdoor antenna another 5-10 ft tomorrow, but it looks like the weather is not going to be too pleasant.

I still think Dish is cheaper, even with price increase. I believe they don't charge a rental fee for the 811. The only 2 channels you'll have trouble with are KAMC and KLBK. And even if you get them, they're only SD (and they look bad). Also, if I'm not mistaken, Dish has Lubbock locals available through the satellite. Given Cox's reluctance to add HD locals and national HD channels, I strongly recommend satellite for you contnet provider.

Thanks guys for the input. I think I am considering buying an OTA tuner - the Samsung SIR-T145 model - instead of satellite. It will be cheaper in the mid-term and the installation logistics will be relatively quick and easy. Furthermore, I won't have to worrying about all the changes in billing and meeting a one year commitment.

BTW, which local station is working on the tower west of the City of Lubbock Recycling Center on 84th just west of Avenue P South? I know KAMC-28 is east of the intersection. I was at the recycling center this afternoon and there were two workers about 700' up working on one of the loop antenna arrays. Also, the xmtr building at the tower base appears to be undergoing some major renovations.

WTXD

If I remember right that stick is mostly radio.

I feel that an OTA tuner is the best way to go. There have been questions about compression on satellite based HDTV signals-causing fidelity loss, and cable has the same temptation. All the OTA I have seen that is HD has been spectacular, noticable better than 'DVD quality'. The only drawback right now is there are really on ly 3 stations doing HD (FOX, NBC and PBS) in Lubbock. I was hoping to get a HD capable set of some kind before the Superbowl, but that may not happen, I'll watch it on KJTV-DT any way, because the DTV picture is clearer than the analog.

Jim,

You're welcome to watch the SB in high def at my casa, as long as you bring a case of cold ones with you.

Hey guys I was wondering if anyone here has a suggestion to my problem with the fox 34 station. I just recently purchased a LG 3510A DVD/HD Tuner combo and I hooked it up yesterday to try the HD feeds out. My tuner is saying fox is in HD but it displays with black bars on each side when I set my projector to 16:9 (Infocus 4805) like it is in 4:3 (except when I switch the mode to 4:3 it gets even smaller). The quality doesn't even look as good as my Standard Def stations. The only HD channel that is going full screen (my screen is a 16:9 110 incher) is the PBS High Def channel, and it looks really good. Anyone got any ideas? I Also picked up either NBC or CBS in high def around 10 something but it was doing the same thing as fox except the quality was a tad better. Wondering what the deal is here, I really want to be able to watch the SuperBowl in high definition! Thanks in advance guys!

Was the actual program you were watching on Fox 34 being broadcast in Hi Def? Channel 34's PID reports it as HD all the time even when the show is not.

Check www.titantv.com to see if the program is indeed being broadcast in HD.

The only DTV channels using some HD are 5.3 (PBS-HD), 11.1 (NBC- HD and 34.1 (FOX-HD).

My estimate is 25% of programing is HD, primetime on these 3 channels, it is about 50-60% HD. Daytime, the only HD is on 5.3 (PBS-HD).

Jim,

Thanks for the quick response! When I got it hooked up yesterday all that was on was The Simpsons and then Friends. Before that as I was trying out a little small amplified antenna from RadioShack before I hooked up my big outdoor ant (The cable is short from the outdoor so I wanted to try the small indoor one before I moved all of my gear around to be able to hook up the outdoor), I believe Malcom In The Middle was on. I went to the basketball game after that and didn't get back till' after ten. I thought maybe they were supposed to be in HD because it kept saying the feed was HD, that really puts alot of my worries to rest! Do you know what is going to be on tonight in HD? Thanks again Jim!

The O.C. and Point Pleasant will be in HD tonight on KJTV.

Not sure how current the following is:

What shows does NBC currently broadcast in high-definition?
American Dreams, Crossing Jordan, Happy Family, Ed, ER, Frasier, Las Vegas, Law & Order, Law & Order: Criminal Intent, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The West Wing and Whoopi are currently broadcast in HDTV. Occasionally, theatrical films and made-for-TV movies are also broadcast in the high-definition format.

And don't forget the Super Bowl on Fox!!!! yeah baby.

It looks like tonight's HD fare is "Joey" and "ER" on NBC;"The OC" and "Point Pleasant" on Fox; "Quiltmakers of Gee's Bend" on PBSHD.

Joey in HD eeeeeewww!

After 10pm "the Tonight Show" is also in HD.

I don't believe any local stations are capable of generating their own HD programming, everything is passed through directly from the networks, with the exception of ABC and CBS affiliates who apparently can't even pass gas.

Fellow HD'ers,

Below is the email response I got back from Cox back in late November regarding the status of Local HD OTA broadcasts. Funny that I was referred to as "Theresa" in the response, name is John; Ah, the joy of consolidated customer service centers. javascript:smilie(':confused:') confused

WTXD
------------------


From: "Cox eCare West Texas" <xxxxxxx@cox.com>
To: <xxxxxxx@cox.net>
Subject: Re: Local Affiliates and HD
Date: Tuesday, November 23, 2004 2:19 PM

Good afternoon Theresa,

Thank you for your inquiry. Our customers are our first priority and we
always appreciate hearing from you.

I do understand your question regarding our Local affiliates.
HD transmission capability is very expensive to convert over. As far as
the Local affiliates, Cox has fiber connections into each of the Local
Technical Centers. Cox will be bringing their subscribers HD coverage
via the cable as soon as the Local affiliates upgrade.

We, Cox, are presently bringing our customers practically everything
that is available to be broadcast in HD at the present time. We
added two more HD Channels last week. STARZ! and Universal, formerly
Bravo.

If we can be of any additional service to you, please do not hesitate to
contact us again. Thank you for choosing Cox Communications as your
friend in the Digital Age.

Have a great Thanksgiving !

Freida
QA
Cox Communications Online Customer Care

What a load of crap. The HD broadcast flies right over their head. They don't need fiber optic anything and they have no fiber into KJTV, nor do they need it. I know that.

Another Lubbockite here. :D I live out at the corner of 114th street and Upland. I've got a Sony 55XS955 being delivered tomorrow and I'm looking at LCDs for the bedroom. Dish has already come out and installed their 811 receivers.

A few questions:

What OTA antennas are you guys using? I have the locals over Dish but from my understanding, they won't be HD so I'll have to swap over to antenna to view CSI, ER, etc.

How's the PQ of our local HD networks?

Anyone local have a dedicated HT? I'll be building a new house come spring and I have been looking for local builders who could assist with this.

Thanks in advance.

Well, you don't need to worry about swapping over to the antenna to watch CSI....the local CBS/ABC compound hasn't made the move to HD.

Fox, NBC, and PBS are the only locals in HD. PQ is good on all of them....it all really depends on the source material.

I live near 28th and Chicago, I have a Zenith Silver Sensor indoors and a Radio Shack U-75R outdoor antenna.

I can only get 4 out of 5 stations with the outdoor antenna and 3 out of 5 with the Silver Sensor.

5.1 - KTXTSD - PBS Standard Def Only.
5.3 - KTXTHD - PBS HD - Beautiful when HD -50% is SD wide screen

11.1 - KCBDHD - NBC HD for HD Programs only - PQ is great.
11.2 - KCBDSD - NBC Standard Def Only.
11.3 - KCBDSC - Local Weather

13.1 - KLBKSD - CBS Standard Def Only. Operating at very low power! No signal with Silver Sensor.

28.1 - KAMCSD - ABC Standard Def Only. Cannot get this channel. Very low power.

34.1 - KJTVHD - FOX HD Beautiful when broadcasting in HD -Watching Super Bowl Pregame now. (MANPIG - I borrowed a HD Projector from work - EIGHT FOOT SCREEN!!!)
34.2 - KJTVSD Local Weather - same as analog Channel 32.

Forget about CSI in HD KAMC(ABC) and KLBM(CBS) have no plans to broadcast in HD - just Digital SD.

Thanks guys.

Well if our local CBS isn't going to convert over anytime soon, I'm just going to get a waiver and have Dish change me over to the New York HD CBS feed. I like KCBD for local news anyway so I won't be missing anything from the local feed.

How was the superbowl on KJTV?

It was great, although the Projector I used was only SVGA (600X800) it was noticable when they switched to and from a High Definition source. You could still see the individual leaves of grass on the field, almost like being there.

The wife was impressed too (possible good news there, except that I owe Uncle Sam about $1000 round about April 15th).

Now I need to plan for the Daytona 500 in two weeks - Boogedy Boogedy.

Yeah, I thought the superbowl looked pretty damn good also. Loved the commercial with the dude cooking for his girlfriend and his cat spills the chili or whatever it was and it got on the cat and the dude is holding up the cat with a knife in his other hand as his girl arrives. Cracked me up.

Daytona will be a treat.

FCC Rejects HDTV Multi-cast Must-Carry for Cable Providers...

story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=513&ncid=738&e=2&u=/ap/20050210/ap_on_go_ot/fcc_digital_tv

Interesting that lone FCC commissioner, Kevin Martin, opposed the ruling and stated:

"The public could have benefited from more free programming"

It is not free if there are re-trans fees involved!

Let's see if he says that programming should remain free for re-trans agreements being negotiated between cable companies and broadcasters (Cox and Cable One vs Nexstar/Mission comes to mind). So it is the cable industry's fault that DBS providers were stupid enough to pay the locals for re-broadcast? If it is free over the air, then it should be free to both cable and DBS subscribers and only charge for the cost-to-maintain the connection.

WTXD

I noticed that today KPTB-DT 25.1 is up and broadcasting, but presently I get no sound over my setup.

Anybody out there with a digital audio hookup gettiong sound on 25.1?

I"m getting it in good, but no audio as well. What is this channel? Religious programming only?

Yes, it is a religious channel out of Odessa, equivalent of analog channel 16.

Reply to my email about no audio on KPDB-DT 25.1

Our encoder is being repaired, we should have audio back up soon. Thanks for watching.

Well, Cox is raising their rates and I am dropping their cable service. Still will continue with their Internet service. I was about to purchase the Samsung T451 OTA HD receiver when Cox dropped the bomb.

Now, have decided to go with DISH. They are coming to install on Sat. One 811 HDTV receiver and two 522 PVR/receivers. Can't wait to see NASCAR in HD even if it is only 720p.

So, some questions. Can anyone in town receive FOX34 with indoor antenna???

WTXD

Technically 720p is a more detailed picture, especially for motion than 1080i. Now when they bring out 1080p that'll really be something. I watched the Daytona 500 Sunday in 720p on an XGA projector, even my daughter was impressed with the picture, "That is AWESOME, Dad." Of course having an 8' diagonal picture helps.

Originally posted by Jim5506
Technically 720p is a more detailed picture, especially for motion than 1080i. Now when they bring out 1080p that'll really be something. I watched the Daytona 500 Sunday in 720p on an XGA projector, even my daughter was impressed with the picture, "That is AWESOME, Dad." Of course having an 8' diagonal picture helps.

It's actually a less detailed picture because it has fewer pixels per frame, but it has a higher frame rate and is free of interlace artifacts, which is why it's great for sports. Video with low motion actually will look softer in 720p, although there is some argument that Fox's superior distribution and encoding system makes up for that compared to 1080i on the other nets.

Interestingly enough, My set top box is now seeing 4 digital channels from KTXT. The PID appears to be a bit messed up (showing channels as 39.1;39.2;39.3 and 39.4), but 39.4 says "NoAV" not "No Signal".

Does anyone have any idea whats up?

Channel 11's digital stations just changed to 9.1, 9.2 and 9.3. Maybe I need to reboot my STB.

KTXT says their PSIP generator did not reboot properly after a 'blip' Saturday.

Has anyone been getting KCBDon 9-1? I know 9 is the digital RF, and I'm wondering why I'm not getting a signal on 11-1, but am on 9-1? Is this what's called the PSiP or whatever? It happened Sunday night, and is happening right now.

Yes, it has been flip-flopping between 9.1 and 11.1. Their PSIP computer has been going up and down, when it's down you see the actual channel instead of the virtual channel.

Thanks Jim. I've already lost a couple of Jeopardy episodes b/c of this. I guess I'll have to set the Tivo to record both 9-1 and 11-1 until they fix it.

If you notice that it is saying 9.1, call the station and tell them.

Often they do not notice that it is not working properly.

You know how computers are, its probably running Windows.

DISH service using the 811 HD receiver and the 522 dual-tuner PVR was installed last weekend. Had a bit of trouble with the diplexing of the OTA antenna and the SAT signal; so, was unable to get FOX34 in HD to see the NASCAR race. However, problem has been fixed and ready for tomorrow's race. From what I have seen so far, the NBC HD programming has been pretty good.

Two things have sent a jolt of disappointment.

1) The 811 does not have any program search capability. This is a very nice feature, and partly defeats the Event Timer capability that the 811 has.

2) My wife watches Ellen on the WB via Cox, which unfortunately is a national feed since there is no local WB station that I am aware of. None of the three WB stations available via DISH have the WB owned, yet syndicated, Ellen show.

Arrgggh!!!

WTXD

KCBD 11 reported that Cox Communications is considering selling its West TX systems.

Cox Communications Announces Possible Sale of Certain Cable Assets

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/050307/76204_1.html


Also, was dissappointed that the NASCAR Busch race in Mexico City this past Sunday was not in HD on FOX, even though the NASCAR website said that it would be. Anyway, watching American Idol in HD on FOX right now to get an idead of how good FOX's HD is. Very clear, but a some pixelation during fast action.

WTXD

I'm much more interested in this in terms of high speed internet, but the video side of things is also interesting. Who would want the West Texas area? I wouldn't imagine any of the other big cablecos would.

I thought I remember reading that NTS was providing cable in the southwest or southeastern part of town. When I had HD cable installed the installer stated that they were running fiber. Don't know how much I can trust the cable installer though. I hope this is true though, I have had so many problems with Cox cable that now I only have internet, and have cable as a back up.

BOO to Fox 34! No Winston Cup HD, and no Arrested Development HD. What is most annoying is there is no one you can contact on the weekends. Also, KCBD was doing some work on their digital equipment this weekend, so hopefully the problems are corrected.

Boo indeed. My first chance to watch a race is spoiled for no apparent reason. I finally got the HDTV, but there's nothing to watch.

Seems KCBD has turned off 11-3 for now. Watching ER it looked a little better last night. Now if they would turn off 11-2 and KJTV would turn off 34-2 things would be a lot better.

KJTV turning off 34.2 would do nothing. Fox already sends out the HD signal precompressed to a bit rate that allows for the subchannel. If KJTV turned off the subchannel you would still receive Fox HD at the same bitrate.

Actually 11.3 does not take very much bandwidth because in a digital broadcast, only if a pixel changes, is any data sent.

The static (or very near static) images on 11.3 are not major bandwidth problems.

If KCBD was only broadcasting one HD stream on 11.1 at minimum compression, they would still not use their whole bandwidth.

Well, they might, but one could not actually SEE the difference on the screen.

Agree with all about the lack of NASCAR in HD on FOX. It must be a FOX network issue, because all of the other programs that FOX says that will be broadcasted in HD come in HD over FOX34; just not the NASCAR races. I guess we will have to wait until July when NBC and TNT take over.

Concerning the possible sale of certain Cox systems, I am sure that must be some takers on a possible sale. I remember living in Amarillo from 1995 til 2003 that in 98 or 99 that ClearSource was going to overbuild the TCA/Cox infrastructure. However, after all the dot-com venture capital dried up, they decided to abandon their efforts there. They kept their systems in Corpus Christi, Midland, and Waco (I think Waco) and improved them. One of the original venture capitalists, Grande Communication, that had a lot invested in ClearSource bought them out. Maybe Grande would buy Lubbock's and/or Amarillo's system, but doubt Midland (they are already there). However, I think it would be a more established company like Cable One or Time Warner. I can't imagine Charter doing anything, they can barely stay afloat as it is now.

Like squicken, I am more worried about the impact of the sale to my broadband connection.

WTXD

NASCAR in HD is back!!! FOX is broadcasting the Atlanta NASCAR race in HD!!! Didn't have to wait until July after all.

WTXD

I have been out of town (Honolulu) for the last 2 Sundays, so I had not noticed the non-HD races, but today's looks great.

Did everybody leave town while I was gone??

Sorry Jim5506. Just like the Morton Salt commercial, when it rains, it pours. I have been putting in a lot of at work, so I haven't been in the forums for the last couple of weeks. Even missed the NASCAR race from Bristol on FOX cause I was working this past weekend.

Welcome back. Hope your trip to HI and back was enjoyable and that your return to the dust bowl isn't gettin' to you too much. The area seems to be living up to my screen name. :)

WTXD

Interestingly enough tonight is the first time I have been able to receive KAMC-DT albiet with dropouts, at least its a signal that I can lock on.

Have they boosted power a little bit?

I'm getting them at about 30% now whereas it was about 15-20% before.

I was up on my roof just after sunset yesterday, and looking at the KLBK and KAMC towers, from my location KAMC is directly behind KLBK's tower, I wonder if that might be "blocking" their signal from me?

Maybe the wind blew KLBK over a little bit allowing the KAMC signal to get by.

I too found KAMC-DT on a recent digital channel rescan. Definitely a nice addition. Either there is some sort of astronomical convergence which increases UHF reception or someone bumped the power knob over there at TexasSize.

Now if we can only get someone to accidentally flip the HD switch......

What's everyone's antenna setup? I had the toughest time when I first started trying to get local digital signals. Inddor wouldn't work. Stealth antenna outdoor didn't work. A couple hundred dollars later and I've got the Square Shooter, rotator, and pre-amp. There is no position that I can use to get all channels. Specifically, KCBD and KJTV. But I live in an apartment on the first floor.

Just curious if you guys have to occasionally adjust your antennas, or if you never have problems.

I have an outdoor antenna on a pole approximately 15' above the roofline.

Antenna is a Radio Shack 15-2160 (Yagi with reflector) supposed to be up to 75 miles (ha ha), with solid RG-6 directly to my Samsung 351.

Antennaweb reports KCBD @ 101deg.; KLBK @ 121deg.; KAMC @ 119deg.; KTXT @ 61deg.; KJTV @ 214deg.; and KPTB @ 91deg.

Antenna is pointed at KLBK/KAMC (which i can see at night virtually KAMC directly behind KLBK). All others come in with good strong signals because I am 6 miles or less from nearly all of them.

I have a Zenith Silver Sensor that I use when I need to move the tuner around in the house. It will not pull in KLBK or KAMC, but with the right orientation, it gets all the others. KAMC and KLBK are transmitting at less than 1000 watts.

Most of the antennas (KCBD, KLBK, and KAMC) are in southeast Lubbock. KJTV is full power so I can point my antenna any direction and get it, same with KCBD.

Right now KAMC (ABC) and KLBK (CBS) are not doing ANY HD at all.

I just got a reply to my email to the KAMC chief engineer reporting that I had for the first time been able to lock on their signal.

Quote:
Thanks for your update on the KAMC-DT. We are now transmitting with a low power transmitter that will cover the city, however there may be some “dead” spots in the coverage. There are plans to increase to full power with a new high power transmitter and HD capacity in 2006 for KAMC and KLBK.
Unquote

Maybe some good news here!!!

Wow! Thanks for the update, Jim. It would be nice to get the Texas Size channels in HD.

I have been using a stealth antennae thats about 6 feet above my roof line and have been KAMC for about 8-10 months. At first the picture was pretty bad with lines running through it but it has recently improved. Have never been able to pick up KLBK, and I live off of n. quaker and the loop.

HDNET TO BROADCAST GAMES 2-5 OF FIRST ROUND IN PLAYOFFS

For Immediate Release- April 23, 2005

DALLAS - The Dallas Mavericks and HDNet announced today that fans will
be able to watch Games 2 through 5 of the Mavs vs. Rockets Round 1
Playoff Series in high-definition on HDNet in Texas.

"There's nothing more exciting than playoff time, especially when you
have a match-up featuring two Texas teams," said Mavs owner Mark Cuban.
"HDNet and the Mavs want to give viewers at home an experience that is
almost as good as being there."

Co-founded by Cuban and General Manager Philip Garvin, HDNet provides
viewers with exciting and topical news, sports, music and entertainment
programming. The network features up to 20 hours of original
programming each week, all produced in the highest quality 1080i HDTV
format - more original high-definition programming than any other
network.

HDNet news and entertainment includes original series "HDNet World
Report," "Face 2 Face with Roy Firestone," "Art Mann Presents," "HDNet
Concert Series," and "True Music," as well as every episode of the
acclaimed Warner Bros. series "Smallville." Live sports productions
include NASCAR auto racing, National Hockey League and Major League
Soccer games.

HDNet Movies, the company's second network, shows a wide selection of
major studios' theatrical releases - all uncut, unedited, and appearing
in their original aspect ratio. The network also features movies
produced and finished in true 1080i high-definition, including movies
premiering day and date with their theatrical releases.

Fans can contact their cable or satellite providers or visit www.hd.net
for more information. Comcast does not currently carry HDNet and HDNet
Movies, so Mavs Playoff games in HD are not available to Comcast
customers. Comcast customers are asked to call their local office and
let them know they want HDNet and the Mavs in HD.

MAVERICKS 2005 PLAYOFF HDNET SCHEDULE
(All Times Listed CT)
Game 2 Mon., April 25 - Rockets @ Mavs 8:30 p.m.
Game 3 Thurs., April 28 - Mavs @ Rockets 8:30
p.m.
Game 4 Sat., April 30 - Mavs @ Rockets 4:30 p.m.
Game 5 Mon., May 2 - Rockets @ Mavs, if necessary TBD

Looks like Cox is selling off all of its Texas assets:

http://www.theeagle.com/businesstechnology/042605cox.php

Anyone else loose KCBD on Friday. I went today and tried to reposition the antennae because I thought the wind might have moved my antennae and could not pick up anything. Before this, it was always my strongest channel.

I was out of town Friday, but I noticed that ER was letterboxed, not HD Thursday night.

Now their PSID is reporting them as Channel 9-1, 9-2, and 9-3 instead ot 11-1, 11-2 and 11-3. Looks like they had some technical difficulties with digital.

Hey, this is all beta testing (for the next 2-3 years).

Yeah KCBD has been pretty consistent with there HD since I have been pickin it up. Hopefully its back today, altough I am a little disapointed I missed the Kentucky Derby.

Must have been a problem on your end. I watched the Derby in HD with no problems.

Ladies and Gentlemen and children of all ages!!

No longer wil I be watching Digital TV in me Symphonic 19" CRT TV.

I just bought (on Ebay) a Sony VPH-D50Q.

I'll be going to Plano in two weeks to pick it up.

Now to convince the little lady to let me convert the spare bedroom into a theatre.

Congrats on the purchase! Are you using OTA or cable/satellite?

I'm OTA with a Samsung SIR-T351.

It pulls in 9 digital transmissions, everything but KAMC-DT.

Channel 34-2 is now broadcasting UPN-22. Looks like the Wrestlemania or whatever they call it.

KJTV ROCKS!! Best usage of bandwidth, two HD channels, maybe.

Can't wait to get my Sony D50Q here.

I don't think that's technically possible with the Fox splicer technology that KJTV uses. Fox sends a pre-encoded HDTV stream to the affiliates that leaves just enough room for the addition of one SD subchannel. Can you tell what resolution the UPN channel is running at?

Not really, since I am viewing it on a regular TV set.

Info from My box just says KUPT-DT SD.

My box does not tell me much info on what comes in.

What kind of box do you have? The SD in the channel id would seem to indicate it's not HD, but it's cool they're passing the UPN signal digitally. How's it look?

I have a Samsung SIR-T351.

Yes it is SD, so I guess they don't have that much bandwidth left.

The PQ is very clear as is all digital reception, 1 or 0 that's all you get.

This would have been nice a few months back, when UPN was still showing ST: Enterprise. If I'm not mistaken, UPN has stated they are going after the teenage girl market exclusively with Primetime programming. That's one of the reasons they got rid of Enterprise, and why Smackdown will be gone soon. I think UPN shows some baseball on weekends, so that is at least something.

I got my Sony D50Q hooked up and did a partial convergence this afternoon.

I only have S-video input until my RCA to BNC adapters arrive, but the picture is already impressive.

Brightness was set at 80 and contrast at 50, backed them both down to 50 and 40.

I can see no burning on the blue or green tube at all.

For a D50 with 3500 hours on it this is a little surprising, since Sony drives these 5.5 inch (usable area of 7 inch) tubes pretty hard to get their advertized 700 lumens.

Now to find a recliner for my office/theatre room.

Jay Leno's coming on - gotta go!!

This would have been nice a few months back, when UPN was still showing ST: Enterprise. If I'm not mistaken, UPN has stated they are going after the teenage girl market exclusively with Primetime programming. That's one of the reasons they got rid of Enterprise, and why Smackdown will be gone soon. I think UPN shows some baseball on weekends, so that is at least something.

The baseball is coming from your local affiliate. UPN has no sports programming.

You can see the fall programming lineup here. (http://www.upn.com/shows/fall_preview_2005/index.shtml) It is decidedly not teen girls, it's urban and young. I've seen all the upfront pitches for these shows and some of it is quite good.

Yea, Mitch,

Local UPN picks up some Ranger and Astro games from time to time.

At least the Fox station does a good job with their 720p, NASCAR and MLB every weekend.

The little lady even asked to see what the College World Series Game tonight looked like on my D50 (progress!!). It was SD but a wall full of baseball looked good.

The baseball is coming from your local affiliate. UPN has no sports programming.

You can see the fall programming lineup here. (http://www.upn.com/shows/fall_preview_2005/index.shtml) It is decidedly not teen girls, it's urban and young. I've seen all the upfront pitches for these shows and some of it is quite good.

Yeah, I knew the sports were local. I was just saying that's the only redeeming thing I saw from them. We'll have to agree to disagree about their primetime programming, though. From the things fredfa has written in his thread on the HDTV Programming thread, I'm more inclined to think they're planning to go after young girls. Didn't they cancel "Kevin Hill" but keep "Veronica Mars", or did they keep both?

WOW!! HDTV on my new (to me) Sony D50Q.

Watched the Tonight Show last night, the little lady said,"I looks like you are right there with them."

Sounds like she is softening up.

ER was in SD shadow boxed last night, did anyone else notice?

I've been so busy watching HD that I haven't had time to finish converging my tubes. It seems a waste of time to watch a crosshatch when I could be watching HD.

Can't wait for the NASCAR race Sunday - BOOGEDY-BOOGEDY-BOOGEDY!

Watched "THE AVIATOR" on DVD (S-Video) before hooking up the HD tuner. Picture was better that SD TV and also wide screen 2.35:1.

The CRT Projector was WELL worth every cent it cost and more.

Looks like I found a bird on the ground.

Looks like NBC's HD slate is fuller this weekend.

Saturday:
Nascar Busch Series Racing
Dew Action Sports Tour (well at least its in HD)
3 hours of Battlestar Galactica

Sunday:
Nascar Racing
Dew Action Sports Tour (yawn again?)
Law and Order: Criminal Intent
Crossing Jordan

Fox on Tuesday - MLB All-Star Game in HD on 34.1

Fire up the PJ's.

Is there a WB affliate out here? I see them on Cox cable listed as kwbz or something like that. I thought they just picked up a national feed. I was not aware that we had one out here because I can not find them on anntennaweb.org. Anyone have any idea?

The only WB is on Cox cable, it is not OTA.

Maybe someday it can be multicast like UPN is on Channel 34.2, but that would just rob bandwidth from something else.

Oh well!!

BTY, the MLB All Star Game was pretty good in HD last night.

Does anyone else have a problem with the stereo audio on 11.1 (not dolby 5.1)on West Wing?

All I am getting is the background sounds, like the rear 5.1 channels are output through the L/R stereo speakers.

How do you contact KCBD on weekends?

I also had the same audio problem on NBC last night and again tonight (West Wing, Revelations, Law and Order and Crossing Jordan). Background sounds and music but no dialogue. Channel 11.3 had normal sound. Fox and PBS both were working properly during same time frame. Anybody have any ideas? I did read on another forum last night that some affiliates might be having trouble with audio in 5.1 format coming from NBC. Didn't know if it was NBC's feed or just locals problem.

Hope this is corrected soon. Just got my HD receiver a few days ago and have been disappointed in content thus far. PBS looks awesome but they don't show much that I want to watch. Was looking forward to watching some of the prime time shows this weekend only to have the audio not work.

Welcome to the forum. It's been pretty slow around here for about 2 months.

What kind of system do you have?

I have a Samsung SIR-T351 receiver with a Sony VPH-50D (three eyed monster). One of these days I'm going to either move the surround sound into my office (unused bedroom) with my HD stuff or convinge the little woman to darken the living room and put the projector in there.

HD content has been slim lately (mostly re-runs) but KJTV 34.1 has some baseball on Saturday and I saw the tennis on NBC this afternoon was HD (the sound was OK there). KTXT has a dedicated channel with HD and wide screen SD stuff (5.3) but a lot of it has been run 300 times.

But, it's only 6 weeks until the NFL comes back, unfortunately only KJTV does football in HD.

KAMC 28.1 and KLBK 13.1 are still only SD and operating at less that 100KW (I can't even pull in KAMC from NW Lubbock). Maybe by this time next year those two will be at full power and doing HD content.

Thanks for the welcome.

I've got a 50" Samsung HLP5063 DLP monitor with a Samsung SIR-T451 receiver. I just bought the receiver a few days ago so am very new to OTA HDTV. Right now I'm just hooked up to a Terk clip-on-dish antenna (don't remember the model number) and am able to pick up all 3 PBS, 3 NBC and 2 KJTV and also Channel 25.1. During one scan I briefly locked into CBS, but have gotten no signal since. Have never been able to get ABC. I live out west of Lubbock just beyond Reese. I will be getting a better antenna pretty quick but am still looking at my options.

You mentioned you are in NW Lubbock. What kind of antenna setup are you using?

Did you have the same audio problems on NBC tonight? NBC has some shows that I like watching. I hope this isn't an ongoing problem.

I am in NW Lubbock at Quaker and the loop and I can pull in ABC,FOX,NBC, and PBS. i have been trying to get CBS for a long time but its been impossible for me. A friend of mine in Tech Terrace can pick up all digital channels. Altough CBS, and ABC digital signals are awful.

NBC is just buggy. Sometimes they don't flip the HD switch. Sometimes the PSiP data gets messed up and you have to tune to 9.1. Audio goes out. Audio and video will go out. On the flip side, there is rarely if ever a problem with KJTV. I'm at Quaker and the south loop. I can pick up all the channels most of the time, but I have a rotor and a preamp on my Square Shooter.

I have a Radio Shack 15-2160 mountd on a mast about 12-15 feet above the roofline with solid RG-6 lead in direct to my receiver.

One day when it was very windy I was able to lock on to KAMC 28.1.

All the other stations come in fine.

I did not watch NBC last night, however I did watch a little of the tennis yesterday afternoon and there were no apparrent audio problems.

From my roof top I can see the towers of KLBK and KAMC. KAMC is almost directly behind KLBK, that may be some of my problem.

z71tahoe193, by awful. do you mean pixellation, or just the SD picture on an HD monitor?

My picture on KLBK-DT is very good, this may be a characteristic of my analog projector, vs a digital projector or RPTV, I don't know.

WEll i haven't seen KLBK in awhile but speakin about KAMC it does not have near the detail as the analog channel and has bars travelin across the screen. I have everything hooked up to a power conditioner so I don't think it is a ground problem. I also don't think it helps that my eyes are used to hd so flipping through those channels definately makes it worse. BTW im using a Channel Master Stealth on a 8 foot mast that is hooked into my 5x8 switch to distribute the signal.

Going to try NBC again tonight with Las Vegas and Medium to see if the audio problems are continuing. If anyone else gets a chance to tune into either of those shows, I would appreciate hearing if you have any problems. Thanks.

Sound is OK on Vegas.

No problem on sound for me either. Thanks.

Anybody heard if either of the Texasize (ABC 28 & CBS 13) plan on attempting HDTV broadcasting this fall? I need to know whether or not to buy a couple of more HDTV PC cards.

The only thing I have heard is in Post 171 on Page 6 where the Engineer from KAMC said they planned to be at full power and broadcasting HD by June 2006.

To me that sounds like no HD on KAMC until mid 2006.

KLBK is similar.

If they aren't at full power by the end of June 2006 they loose the ability to go to full power, and are stuck at low power.

They are in no hurry.

I don't think it would do any harm if a number of people emailed Mike Randolph (mrandolph@klbk.com) making inquiries as to when HD will happen.

The more interest there is out here, the more reason for them to hurry up.

Anyone able to pull any unencrypted channels in through cable with QAM tuner?

Not much that was worth seeing. Some of the Music Choice channels, a few of the Spanish language channels, and a handful of the shopping channels. No locals and definitely no HDTV.

I tried it for a few hours, but returned to OTA after that.

Anyone able to get NBC-HD tonight. I've got a solid signal, but no picture. Like they didn't flip the switch. Obviously they don't answer the phones at night . . .

I was just watching Earl, and turned it off because Office was even dumber and not amusing. It looked OK to me.

There is life out there after all!!

Thanks for the quick response.

I did notice that their PSID or whatever was wrong, indicating virtual channel 9 instead of 11.

Do you think that may have been why you could not lock in?

Channel 11 has usually been good, except for a few times they forget to flip the switch and we get letterboxed picture on 11-1 instead of 16:9 HD.

Usually when there PSID gets screwed up I am unable to watch KCBD-DT on my HD-Tivo, but I am able to watch it on my tv in the bedroom with the built in tuner. It gets very frustrating and has been happening everynow and then. When this happens you can always try rescanning your local channels and see if that helps anything, not sure cause I have not tried it myself. Those of you that are recieving 13-1 (KLBK-DT CBS) where are yall located and what kind of setup are you using. I am at N. Quaker and the loop using a Channelmaster stealth on a six foot mast and have been unlucky. I have been debating on getting another mast, and better antennae but would like to know if this is a pointless attempt. Thanks

As for 'flipping the switch' does has anyone developed points of contact at KCBD or KJTV that we could call when the HD feed is lost (especially after hours)?

About KLBK-DT: I'm located near 98th and Slide and I'm able to tune it in. I'm using a Radio Shack outdoor antenna in my attic pointed in the general direction of the transmitter. I don't recall signal strength, but I could check for you.

If it's any consolation, the picture quality appears to be the worst of any of the OTA channels I receive. KAMC-DT is watchable using my projector while KLBK-DT is somewhat distracting because of the low quality. I would be hesitant to spend the extra money upgrading your antenna set up.

Thanks for the info z71 and Jim. I've also got the HD-Tivo, but no other way to tune digital channels. It's amazing that they still haven't fixed this problem. It's been happening for months now. As far as a contacting them after hours, I can tell you that the main line doesn't work.

KLBK tunes fine, but looks very bad to me as well. I've got a Square Shooter on a rotor, which I have to adjust for each station if I want to receive. I can't really ever get KAMC-DT. South Loop and Quaker.

I guess I will hold off for now, I just started using there analog feed and that is terrible too. The quality is bad and they only broadcast in mono. What a jip, i guess i will just have to "move" so i can get some hd cbs

All we can do is hope that TexaSize gets their act together in 2006. Of course it will be too late for the Super Bowl and March Madness.

At least we have some NASCAR and Fox NFL in HDTV. NBC prime time is getting pretty good, too. Now if we can just get the players actually giving us HDTV to stop with the multi-cast nonsense. The artifacts caused by restricting the bandwidth on the HDTV feed are distractingly obvious (at times) on a large screen. KTXT seems to bother me the most. Has anybody figured out what the 5-2 sub-channel is for? Draining the extra bits from 5-3 seems to be the obvious answer.

As for KAMC-DT, it may be SDTV, but I actually get a much better picture than the analog OTA feed. It puts KLBK-DT to shame.

I have a Samsung SIR-T351 driving my Sony 3-eyed monster with a Radio Shack 15-2160 UHF antenna located about 12 ft above my roof peak (~30 ft agl).

I live near 28th and Chicago in NW Lubbock. I get KLBK and it looks OK on my analog projector, but can't pull in KAMC at all. KAMC told me 3 or so months ago that they would be going full power and HD in mid 2006 (full power deadline is July 1, 2006). The same should apply to KLBK. I never watch KLBK except on my old analog TV anyway (saving my crt's).

Looks like KCBD worked OK tonight. It's really my only trouble spot HD-wise. I "moved" to get CBS and ABC in HD, which is nice. But I still need the local affiliates for regional college and NFL games.

I wish the HD NFL games on FOX looked better, but from reading the HDTV Programming Forum, it appears that they still haven't perfected the splicer technology. Also, I hope you guys are watching Arrested Development. It's really great, and it's gonna get canceled unless we support it. It, along with most of FOX's primetime schedule, has good PQ imo.

I "moved" dallas to get hd and they seem like they are giving me the run around. They said that they had to send waivers to the affiliates. Im only trying to get CBS, and i know for sure its O&O. Tabasaco what city did you move to?

Putnam, OK. This was back before the SHVERA change, when it was a white area. I got ABC and CBS waived. It wouldn't work now b/c they offer OKC locals there. You could always try NY or LA. I thought they just automatically okayed people moving into O and Os. Good luck.

Also, KJTV is only showing up at 35-3 right now. Hopefully it's correct by tomorrow for the NFL.

Looks like 11.1 forgot to turn on the HD for our NASCAR Race today.

Is there any way to call them after hours and on weekends???

knock; knock!

Nobody's there!!



HD was great this weekend, NASCAR, playoff baseball and the Cowboys over the Eagles.

Yes, very good HD sports weekend. Things look great on KJTV and KCBD . . . when they remember to get things straight in the control room.

I was hopping back and forth last night between Medium and the baseball game, when I inadvertently landed on 13.1.

Oh, brother was their SD picture fuzzy, even compared with 11.3 it was really bad. they must be running a very low bitrate or something.

It was fuzzier than 34.2.

I did a little of quick comparing and the news in SD on 11.1 last night was much, much clearer than the news on 13.1.

I have just recently entered into the world of HD as I bought a Sony KDLV-32XBR1. I am using a Zenith Silver Sensor in-door HD antenna to pick up local channels and Cox cable for analog viewing (I don't think the digital package is worth the money). I am interested in knowing what OTA channels y'all are getting. In the previous thread Jim5506 is talking about using 11.1 for KCBD HD and I can't get a signal, but I do get a really strong signal on 9.3. Here are the stations that I use: 5.1 - KTXT SD; 5.3 - PBS HD; 9.3 KCBD HD(when available from NBC); 9.4 - KCBD Instant Weather Data; 13.1 - KLBK DT; 22 UPN; 28.1 - KAMC DT (I don't always get a signal); 32 - FOX AccuWeather; 34.1 - KJTV DT. I can pick up some other stations that I don't really care about. I live in Lakeridge and I'm using an indoor antenna.

Thanks,
John

Here is a list of local DTV channels as I get them on my Samsung SIR-T351 and comments:

1. KTXT-DT - CH5.1 (really CH 39) - SD 3:4 480p - same as analog CH5 PBS.
2. KTXT-DT - CH5.3 (CH39) - HD 16:9 - 40% HD content (my estimate) 1080i - PBSHD.
3. KCBD-DT - CH11.1 (CH9) - HD 16:9 1080i 20% HD content same as analog CH11 - NBC.
4. KCBD-DT - CH11.2 (CH9) - SD 3:4 480p weather radar.
5. KCBD-DT - CH11.3 (CH9) - SD 3:4 480p same as analog CH11 - NBC.
6. KLBK-DT - CH13.1 (CH40) - SD 3:4 SD 480p same as analog CH13 - CBS - maybe 1080i HD by July 2006.
7. KPTB-DT - CH25.1 (CH25) - 3:4 SD 480p - Religious Programming - not on air right now.
8. KAMC-DT - CH28.1 (CH27) - 3:4 SD 480p Same as analog CH28 - ABC - maybe 720p HD by July 2006. I cannot get this channel, I live near LCU.
9. KJTV-DT - CH34.1 (CH35) - 16:9 HD - 20% HD content 720p - FOX.
10. KJTV-DT - CH34.2 (CH35) - 3:4 SD 480p - weather channel same as analog CH32.

Basically we get 3 channels that broadcast in HD PBS-HD, NBC and FOX. Others (ABC and CBS) claim to be working toward HD.

Most towers are in SE Lubbock. ABC and CBS are emitting <1KW so with your indoor antenna you are doing good. I have an outdoor antenna and like I said, I get everything but KAMC-DT.

Did anyone else experience audio and video dropouts during Medium tonight?

Luckily I had my TiVo on analog CH11 also so I could go back and view the punchline.

I had not experienced that on KCBD-DT before.

I believe it was a network problem with the HD digital stream.

I get dropouts whenever it is rainy/overcast. I don't know if it's always on my end, or if sometimes the station's are having trouble with picking up the satellite signal.

If anyone is interested, I just bought an Accurian HTS-6000 from the Radio-Shack @ 4th and Frankford for under $98 tax included.

They shipped one in from Odessa and another from San Angelo, so there is one left.

If this one works well for me, I might go get the second for my brother-in-law.

Looking at surrounding towns, Lubbock has, inspite of our ABC and CBS foot draggers, the best selection of DTV and HDTV within 250 miles. Amarillo has 2 HDTV stations one is PBS, Odessa-Midland only has one or two, same for Abilene and Wichita Falls. You have to go to Albuquerque, DFW or San Antonio to find one location with three or more stations regularly broadcasting HDTV. Count your blessings.

5.1,5.2,5.3,11.1,11.2,11.3,34.1,34.2,34.3

(counting degraded multi-cast blessings)

34.3 - I've never seen that!!

Are you anticipating?

No subchannels have been added since 34.2, and 5.2 is always blank.

Sorry, I shouldn't have included 34.3.

I was just trying to illustrate my frustration with the practice of multi-casting. HDTV really shines on a large screen. Multi-casting robs the main channel of bits and causes noticeable artifacts. I just want the best picture possible.

Saturday and today KCBD -DT has had a red line across their HD picture on 11.1. Has anyone else been getting this line. It extends into the grey gars outside the SD picture when a non HD show is on. IT shows up as blue in the picture when a tan or flesh toned scene is up.

Anyone know of a way to contact KCBD nights or weekends?

Anyone know of a way to contact KCBD nights or weekends?

Ugh. That's what's so annoying. I've asked before and they say call the main number, but no one answers after business hours. And that's the only time most of us would have a problem. Who cares is Dr. Phil isn't coming in on the right channel, or has a green line on the screen?

The Master Control number for KCBD is 7614231

Hey guys i am the Cheif at KCBD I will try to answer what I can. On the HD not getting switched everytime I am working on automating but havn't got there yet.

The Master Control number for KCBD is 7614231
Thanks.

Welcome to the forum, HD Headache, we'll try to be nice! :D

I do appreciate KCBD's leadership in this area, to be frank I do not bother to watch programs that are not HD (except for football), and I watch less of that if it is not HD.

I like the new weather stuff on 11-2, much better than staring at the radar all day.

Looks like analog channel 22 KUPT is flipping from UPN to WB as KWBZ as of 1/1/2006.

They are rumored to go dark analog 12/31/2006 and come up as digital KWBZ-DT on 1/1/2007 rumor has it on channel 16.

Hopefully they will offer some HDTV fare.

Hi! It's me again.

Has anyone experienced choppy sound on KTXT-DT 5.3, not dolby digital, but plain stereo analog audio output? For the last month (since early December) Ch 5.3 has had choppy sound on my Samsung SIR-T351. 5.1 is fine, all the other channels are fine, but the stereo output is choppy on 5.3.

Now, a complication is that my Accurian HTS-6000 is not experiencing this stereo audio choppyness. I have heard of a problem with the digital audio from the SIR-T351, but this is the analog audio out.

I don't watch much PBS, but I watched the videogame special last week, and everything was fine.

Has anyone heard any new info about Cox's sale of its Lubbock business? My contract with D* is up pretty soon, and am curious about cable alternatives. Not having NBC and FOX HD is kind of a deal breaker.

Jim,

No problems for me on 5.3, but I use the digital out of my HDTV tuner only. Having a problem with only one channel is the perplexing part.

I would be inclined to suspect your HDTV tuner. The digital audio signal received by the SIR-T351 would be down-mixed and sent through a DAC in order to provide a stereo analog output. Maybe some sort of problem with the DD stream from 5.3 that doesn't manifest itself until it's down-mixed?

I'll try to spend some time on 5.3 to see if I have any problems in the digital domain.

Well, I bought my first HDTV a couple of weeks ago and it arrived yesterday. Got the Sony 50" SXRD. Currently, I've just got analog Cox cable. I'm going to upgrade my programming source and get the HD programming from the new provider. Not being able to get locals through DirecTv makes me lean towards Cox, although I've always been a fan of DirecTv.

I'd appreciate any of your opinions/suggestions on what's available.

Regardless of the source, Over the Air (OTA) HDTV is better than HDTV through cable or satellite because cable and satellite bouth recompress most digital signals to fit their available bandwidth, OTA for most stations is not.

You're right, and I do watch the OTA HDTV (Fox, NBC, and PBS), but I'm looking to get some HD programming in addition to the OTA channels. Any preference between dish & digital cable taking into account more than just the HD options?