Watching the Olympics coverage tonight. Anyone else having audio sync problems? It's pretty bad here.

No problem here.

I received the invite. Not sure if I'll go. I'd like to, but I have nobody to go with and have no idea where to park.

I wonder how they pick who recieves it?? I would definitly be interested in going and I did sign up at hdtvcolorado.com so I guess I'll see what happens

Did anyone else get the invite to the HDTV Colorado Open House at KUSA, for next Tuesday night?
Just curious........
Got one here this afternoon (3:45 PM). Doubt I will go. Too little too late for my own taste. The LCG should have been running this campaign four years ago. Too bad it isn't at KMGwhatever, it might have been a stitch to have seen their hamster and maybe meet their astute lawyers. :rolleyes:

Just checked channel 9.1. Picture quality is pretty bad when things move. I hope those of you that go to the open house aren't so jazzed to be there that you won't voice your concerns about picture quality and the like.

Yeah, I noticed PQ on KUSA was pretty good until lots of movement, then there was smearing and some pixelating. Tell them to turn off their stupid weather channel on 9-2! They don't even promote it OTA. I'm just waiting for the lengthy entrance to end to watch the smearing fire be lit.

:eek: ***HDNet Studio Tour--Register Now!*** :eek:

Speaking of tours, back by popular demand, the HDNet studio tour. I have been talking to the HDNet folks again about setting up a spring tour for the AVS folks. The was an annual event for several years until 'the incident' with Jetlag. They are open to having us again (although there was mention of Jetlag needing to have a chaperone this time to protect the on-air talent--it's a long story dating back to our last tour, Jetlag, a blonde, and a storage room, although to be fair to Jetlag, no charges were ever filed, but I won't mention it out of respect to Jetlag...... :D ).

At any rate, we are looking at setting a date for late March or early April. HDNet engineers will be leading us and, of course answering our questions. We are looking at a 4:00PM tour on either a Monday, Wednesday, or Friday afternoon. For those of you new to the scene here, HDNet studios are in the old Stapleton airport area (directions will be provided later) and they house some of the premier HD studios and processing facilities in the country. We will also select a date to allow us to tour one of the latest remote trucks as well.

Before we get too far with the plans I would like to get of rough show of hands of interest as well as any comments on which day of the week you all might prefer. The actual date or dates (if enough are interested for more than one night) will be selected later when the truck schedules are known. For those of you who are new to the forum in the last few years, and also for those 'lurkers' who have yet to post, the tour is always open to any AVS member who can make it to the studio.

Please reply to the forum if you are interested, and also if you would prefer a certain day of the week. I would like to get a preliminary head count before we select the dates. In the past we had pretty good turnouts with a LOT less members, so I need to get a sense of how many (especially the newbies) would be interested in such a tour. We will select dates based upon interest and post the final information later on as well as take a more firm roll call.

Enjoy!
:D

I'd be interested in attending.

Chock up one vote for Monday.

Thanks!

That would be cool.
I would like to attend.
Thanks.
T.

I wonder how they pick who recieves it?? I would definitly be interested in going and I did sign up at hdtvcolorado.com so I guess I'll see what happens

I doubt they care if someone shows up without having received an invitation. It's not like it's some kind of secret club.

The more people, the better.

I'm up for another tour of the HDNet Studios, will be interesting to see what has changed since the last time! My schedule is flexible, so any of those days will work for me.

Steve

I know I'm just a newbie to the thread, but a HDNet tour would be great. I ran into a producer and a director for the sports division of the network and they were extremely amiable. Just let us know when!

Thanks for demonstrating exceptional restraint and discretion in not mentioning the incident John. :rolleyes: I heard they are going to have Olaf from the Extreme Cage Fighting series on hand this year to keep me in line. ;)

I would be interested, Monday is my first choice but Wednesday would be fine too.

Sign me up for 2 (me and my daughter Kristen) Kristen is working toward her communications degree at UCD and was on the Channel 9 tour last year.

You pick the date(s)

Thanks for organizing this again!!

I'm in John! Any day/date is fine in April for me.

Count me in, Monday is best. Thanks. My wife might go to (big maybe)

I'd go... I've done some Cisco router work for them, nice folks...

I get a good lock on frequency 29, channel 25-1 KDEN on my DirecTV hr10-250, but can't tune to it, it doesn't show in the guide.. any ideas?

I get a good lock on frequency 29, channel 25-1 KDEN on my DirecTV hr10-250, but can't tune to it, it doesn't show in the guide.. any ideas?You're not missing anything. It's just a low-powered shopping channel which broadcasts from the foothills NW of Boulder.

Yeah, don't even bother trying to get 25.

Who even uses shopping channels anymore?

Another for the HDnet tour...either day is fine.

Tim

Anyone else having sound problems on 9-1 for the Olympic coverage. Volume is very low when the events are on and then returns to normal for the commercials. I can't tell if it is a KUSA problem or an NBC problem.

The audio last night was switching between digital 5.1 and standard. I noticed the volume differences as well when my receiver switched. Im used to that, but what I found more frustrating was the picture quality, especially on complex scenes with lots of motion... Its lost on me why they consume bandwidth on 9-2 during a big event. I cant say Ive ever had it on for more than 10 secs.

jc

Watching the Olympics coverage tonight. Anyone else having audio sync problems? It's pretty bad here.

After my initial post I noted a few sound dropouts during the course of the Opening Cerimonies, but nothing un-typical of 3 hours of HDTV on KUSA.

However, 2PM today on KUSA, they had "big time" sound problems from Torino.

I have an DTV HD Tivo and KTVD-DT is coming in as 19.1 so it's not mapping any guide data (since the local UPN is channel 20). Is everyone else having this problem?

Count me in for the HDNet tour. Any day of the week is fine. The sooner the better for me as I don't know how long I can take this semi-retirement before I need to do something beyond the confines of my house. The wife has indicated that she would like to attend also. Thanks for the notice.

I think I count 15 already (including PM's) so it looks like the interest is still there. I think it is safe to say it will be worth scheduling the 2006 tour for sure. I will give it a few more days just to see how many more will come in. If there are enough, we might split to two nights or two groups on one night. For those who haven't replied, let me know of your interest even if you are a newbie so the folks at HDNet can have an idea of how many we might have coming. Thanks for the fast replies.

Count me in. Any day any time.

John,
I missed the last HDNet tour, so count me in for the next one. Would prefer a day other than Monday.
Thanks for putting this together.

I have an DTV HD Tivo and KTVD-DT is coming in as 19.1 so it's not mapping any guide data (since the local UPN is channel 20). Is everyone else having this problem? When I check the program guide on my Samsung
tuner it too comes up blank. :(

on another note. Last night's Fox's HDTV broadcast of the last of their Arrested Development episodes was great. Couldn't tell you if the transmission was OK as a was doubled over with laughter :D :D .

Anyone else having sound problems on 9-1 for the Olympic coverage. Volume is very low when the events are on and then returns to normal for the commercials. I can't tell if it is a KUSA problem or an NBC problem.

Just found out from KUSA that due to the myriad of problems they are having with NBC's 5.1 audio feed from Italy, they have switched back to broadcasting 2.0 stereo until further notice.

After listening to last nights bizarro 3.0(ish) audio feed of the Opening Ceremonies, I thought it was a KUSA issue, but after doing some research in the programming forum, I realized this most certainly was an NBC Network problem as it was happening in countless markets. As others above have posted, the audio became even more wacko this afternoon, varying wildly from event to event, to even their studio coverage. Apparently it was at this point that KUSA decided to cut their losses and just go back to broadcasting 2.0.

Hopefully this will only be temporary, and NBC will get their act together, and KUSA-DT will go back to broadcasting 5.1. Let's hope!

Hopefully this will only be temporary, and NBC will get their act together, and KUSA-DT will go back to broadcasting 5.1. Let's hope!Seeing as how they just switched to SD, I'm not hopeful. :(

I'm in for an HDNet tour. Monday works best, but I'll make it work no matter what night we choose.

I would love to go on the tour. The last time I got to tour a broadcast facility (other than the radio network I work for) was when I was on a job interview for New Frontier Media in Boulder. That was an adventure all its own.

Pezjohnson I interviewed there too (used to work for larry flynt a while back and figured that would be my in, but they never called back)

I am very interested in the HDNet tour :)

Hopefully this will only be temporary, and NBC will get their act together, and KUSA-DT will go back to broadcasting 5.1. Let's hope!

I can only hope the problem of sound in 2.0 is the only problem they have from here out, when compared to the utter failure of Saturday night's HD broadcast.

I gave NBC the benefit of the doubt, that maybe the noreaster blizzard was affecting NBC New York's transmission. But after two hours, I figured if it was the weather that they'd have the common sense to shift to Los Angeles or Chicago as the place to receive the broadcast from Tornio and retransmit.

Even so, I'm of the opinion that digital HD is still quasi-experimental. I hope that NBC's HD experience at the Olympics doesn't sour them on HD sports broadcasts and cause them to revert to SD, like they do with both Saturday NHL hockey and Sunday Arena Football.

Maybe we should email NBC and say, "Hang in there. We know this is new technology and there will be problems. But when it works, it looks and sounds great. Keep with it."

I also wonder if, at some venues (like the Opening Ceremonies), they weren't using HD camera feeds from European television outlets, with all the pixilization? Anybody have any insight into this?

The mayor of Golden replies to the LCG information campaign on the TV towers.

Rocky Mt. News Speakout column 2/12/06 (http://rockymountainnews.com/drmn/speak_out/article/0,2777,DRMN_23970_4460244,00.html)

The article is in the RMnews section of the Denver Post Editorials this morning.

Hey John, I'm interested in the HDNet Tour. My kids have spring break around that time, so if it falls when we are skiing, I'll miss it. But otherwise, I'd like to go.

Also, anyone from the Louisville/Lafayette/Boulder area going to the KUSA Tour? If so, could you give me a ride home after the tour? I work downtown and take the bus, so if I could get a ride back to the ParkNRide, I'd be a happy camper. PM if you could help me out.

Thanks, Greg

The mayor leaves out quite a bit of information in order to make his point ( kind of like a high schooler writing his first essay ). Sounds like the elected commisioners who did vote in favor of the proposal didn't even exist.

Jeff

I have a friend in the Layfayette area (mile and a half east of US 287 and a mile south of Jasper road) that is considering HDTV. I wanted to give him some info on his odds of OTA DTV. Anyone on this forum live in that area? If so, what DTV do you receive and what level of OTA hardware and configuration do you need to receive it. Thanks in advance.

I'm in for the tour. It's always fun to see you guys. We don't get to get together too often.

I also would like to join in for the HDNET tour.

HDnet Tour
I'm interested in the tour. Wednesday works best for me. Monday is second best.

The mayor of Golden replies to the LCG information campaign on the TV towers.

Rocky Mt. News Speakout column 2/12/06 (http://rockymountainnews.com/drmn/speak_out/article/0,2777,DRMN_23970_4460244,00.html)

The article is in the RMnews section of the Denver Post Editorials this morning.
Wow. If the mayor of Golden is this clueless about everything under his purview, I'm very glad I'm not living in Golden.

(for starters, he seems to be completely unaware of who is challenging what in court)

Wow. If the mayor of Golden is this clueless about everything under his purview, I'm very glad I'm not living in Golden.

(for starters, he seems to be completely unaware of who is challenging what in court)
It's easy to see how the (S)CARE folks were able to suck him in to their money making scheme...excuse me, environmental protection scheme.....he appears to be a fog about what has happened over the last few years.

Yes, I am in SW Lafayette (the low-lying part just West of Hwy 287 and between Dillon and Hwy 42/Empire Rd) and get all of our local HD channels via OTA (including KMGH-DT) with just a 40-something inches Yagi (no preamp) mounted on top of my patio cover (about 12' above ground and 15' out from my house) pointed at RP. A DB4 also did the job (but wifey didn't like the way it looked). I have a DirecTV HD Tivo (HR10-250). I would think your friend probably has a better location than I do here if he is 1.5 miles East of 287 on Jasper, (near Erir, yes?) and is probably up higher with a better line of sight though the Tri-County airport traffic may not help (I sometimes get dropout due to aircarft coming & going to/frm Jeffco which is not too far away). Anyway, I have a RatShack 40" Yagi (and mount) gathering dust in my garage if your friend wants to try it. It worked well for me before I got a slightly longer Winegard Yagi.

Thanks for the response. I think I've got him covered antenna-wise if he decides to go OTA.

I just got done writing a letter to the editor. I realize it is too late for Monday's paper but I'll be watching after that.

This is in response to the Speakout column by Charles J Baroch, mayor of Golden. The column left out a lot of info, first what is so special about the 150 acres that they want to buy out of thousands of acres on Lookout Mtn other than the fact a tower is proposed for it? Also there was no mention of the fact they have proposed using eminent domain to take the land if a sale is not arranged. While Jefferson County currently does not approve the tower, it had been approved until Golden and area residents challenged the approval in court. The no vote was made by commissioners who had campaigned partially on the fact they would not approve the tower. An alternate location is mentioned, where is this alternate location?? If he is referring to Squaw Mtn, that location will not provide coverage to the far northwest suburbs and Boulder. Lastly he brings up protecting our mountain backdrop, but no mention is made that once this new tower is built, FOUR existing towers will be removed. This is a subject of interest to the entire metropolitan area, not just Golden.

Let's keep the letters comin'!
Regarding the recent letter by Golden Mayor Charles Baroch, his recent comments are the ones that are mis-leading. It is not the Lake Cedar Group that is denying millions of residents of the entire front range, digital television, it is just a very small group of radical NIMBY's he's sided with. The C-A-R-E group (Canyon Area Residents for the Environment) are purely out for profit and not the safety of any residents. C-A-R-E residents who live on Lookout Mt. will profit tremendously by their property values skyrocketing if they can continue to find ways to remove all the current towers on Lookout Mt.

Coincidently, not one of the members of C-A-R-E who claims all this un-proven, deadly cancer-causing danger by the 50-plus year old existing towers, has ever moved their families off Lookout Mountain! Wouldn't you move asap if truly believed you were putting your children in danger? Also, they have publicly stated over and over, that no towers should be build near people. Well, it's funny how one minute they say that, then the next, they testified at JeffCo hearings that fully support building towers out west of Jefferson County on Squaw Mt. Hmmm? What about all the families and small children that live up there on Squaw Mt? I guess its really not so bad after all to radiate women and children... just as long as it's not on their mountain! Hypocrites!

Ernie
"Hypocrites!"

Great to see your managed to restrain yourself from saying what you 'really' feel.
;)

I was so angry when I read this, I am writing to the RMN in a few. I did like the bit about "but Lake Cedar Group is currently appealing the decision in court"

IT IS GOLDEN, C-A-R-E, and the rest of the HOA's that filed the lawsuit in the first place!

Please define "an alternative site?"

I also liked the "campaign of misinformation". All on has to do is go to
City Mountain Views or that lame CARE web site. They have been spilling lies, and venom for years
First:
Mt. Morrison: (s)CARE fought against this. There is an appeal filed by you-know-who to the Colorado Court of Appeals.
Eldorado Mt: Denied
Squaw Mtn? Nope.
I like all of the "experts" that claim that they know all about broadcasting.

HDNET Tour ... I'd be interested, only not the first week in April (Spring Break). Wednesdays are lowest in availability but others work fine.

# Matt

Is anyone going to the open house at KUSA this coming Wednesday?

I will be there as long as I dont get stuck at work.

Count me in for the HDNET tour.

sCARE sucks

I will be at the KUSA open house. I will probably not be in town for the HDNet tour, but I'll see as the date approaches. Of course, neither location is that great to drive to in the afternoon from the south burbs.

Count me in for the KUSA Tour.

No KUSA for me this time. Work is nuts.

Count me in for HDNet. Looks like we'll have quite the crowd this time.

Oh, and for those of you who didn't go to the last one, here is the source of Jetlag's woes:

http://www.hd.net/images/op/krueger.jpg
http://hd.net/bio_krueger.html

I'm a newbie and would be very interested in the tour, depending on when it ends up being and my work schedule at the time.

I'll be there on Wednesday, just to see some of the old hands again, as it's been way too long. And, as for the HDNet tour, count me in. A Friday would work best for me, but could swing either a Monday or a Wednesday with a little bit of notice. :)

Edit: Just noticing the previous post before mine...Russ - are you the Russ Nelson that I know?

I'll go the HDNet tour (again) unless spring break causes a conflict. Any day is fine. Will be fun to see all the fellow members who gave (probably worthless) testimony to the Jeffco commissioners so long ago.

Can't make KUSA this time around.

Well here is a thought about the towers and Golden. You can impact the city by boycotting businesses there - including the biggest Coors (errr I mean Molsen). Just a thought

Reggie

I gave NBC the benefit of the doubt, that maybe the noreaster blizzard was affecting NBC New York's transmission. But after two hours, I figured if it was the weather that they'd have the common sense to shift to Los Angeles or Chicago as the place to receive the broadcast from Tornio and retransmit.
I don't know if NBC has HD uplink capabilities in Chicago, and if they were receiving the HD feed directly from an European satellite uplink those birds would not be visible from Los Angeles.

If they were receiving the HD feed via fiber, they could have fed from LA, but frankly, the low number of HD viewers probably didn't make it worth the effort (after all, stations could have just switched to the SD feed, but I'm not aware that any bothered.)

I don't know if NBC has HD uplink capabilities in Chicago, and if they were receiving the HD feed directly from an European satellite uplink those birds would not be visible from Los Angeles.Here's some useless trivia for 'ya. A lot of people don't know that Denver was choosen as the cable capital of the US back in the 70's. The reason was, our location (long/lat) is one of the only places were you can get one bounce on satellite from both Europe and Asia.

Not that that matters anymore with digital transmission. As with digital, there's no signal loss and noise added like analog with multiple bounces.

KUSA Not Broadcasting Olympics in Dolby 5.1

This morning I sent the following email to KUSA. Would you please help and do the same. Thanks!

Dear KUSA,

For the last few days despite NBC’s informing its viewers that sound for the Olympics is in Dolby 5.1, for some reason KUSA is not carrying the games that way.

KUSA sometimes broadcasts programs in Dolby 5.1. Would you please explain why the station has decided not to carry the Olympic games this way?

If possible, please reconsider and, indeed, take advantage of the great sound we are experiencing on Universal HD and allow us to listen in Dolby 5.1 on KUSA.

Thank you.

Well here is a thought about the towers and Golden. You can impact the city by boycotting businesses there - including the biggest Coors (errr I mean Molsen). Just a thought
Reggie

Ernie's all over it.

Funny thing, I have the BOYCOTT GOLDEN bumper sticker on my car and I get asked a couple times a week... "What are you boycotting?" Amazing, just one sticker and the words getting around!

I'm in for tomorrow night - I invited myself and got a reply back saying I was welcome to attend.

Looking forward to seeing you guys again.

Funny thing, I have the BOYCOTT GOLDEN bumper sticker on my car and I get asked a couple times a week... "What are you boycotting?" Amazing, just one sticker and the words getting around!

Where did you get it?

Where did you get it?

Ernie got the bumper sticker from HIS own website. Here is the link: http://www.cafepress.com/denverdtv

Tell your frineds to visit and buy some anti-Golden goodies.

Hello.

I am new to this site and find all these comments very interesting.

Last week I purchased a ton of gear to get HD at my house. I have DirectTV and after talking with the rep on the phone have decided to wait a few months before getting a DirectTV HD receiver. As an alternative, I had planned to use an HD antenae to get a few channels (especially the olympics this week for the kids). Unfortunately, it appears that I don't get any reception - or at least that appears to be the case. After spending a couple days installing my stuff, I may not have had the needed patience to get the signal.

So, my question is: Will I be able to get an HD signal in Genesee? (I can't see Lookout Mountain from my house. I am on the South side of Genesee Mountain.) I am mostly wondering if I should expend the time and effort to do this or should I just wait until I get it as part of my satellite or cable package.

Thank you for any help that can be provided.

Harold

Welcome GenesseHD,

Can you see Downtown Denver from your home (Republic Plaza in particular)? If your answer is yes, there is a chance that you can receive channels 4, 6, 7, 9 and 20 if you use an outdoor/attic antenna with a lot of gain. As to receiving Lookout HD channels, you may want to see if Ernie Santella (santellavision) replies to your post. I believe that he is a resident of Genesse and may be able to help.

Cheers
-Matt

Hello.

I am new to this site and find all these comments very interesting.

Last week I purchased a ton of gear to get HD at my house. I have DirectTV and after talking with the rep on the phone have decided to wait a few months before getting a DirectTV HD receiver. As an alternative, I had planned to use an HD antenae to get a few channels (especially the olympics this week for the kids). Unfortunately, it appears that I don't get any reception - or at least that appears to be the case. After spending a couple days installing my stuff, I may not have had the needed patience to get the signal...
Harold

This is going to sound like a weird question, but does your TV have integrated HDTV (ATSC/QAM) tuner/decoder? If not, the best you'll do is standard definition programming until you get your D* tuner. I'm guessing you're waiting for the next generation tuner/dvr that has the mpeg 4 decoder.

Now if you have the integrated HDTV, tune it manually to digital channel 16 (this is actually KUSA's HDTV frequency, although it "upchannels" to 9-1) and then point the antenna (it needs to be a UHF antenna... not VHF... like the set-top loop antenna) at Republic Plaza downtown. Find the blue sign on the Qwest building-- visible from everywhere including the Moon at night-- and kinda nudge the antenna here and there until you get a picture. Once you get a moving picture, have your TV search out all of the other HD and digital channels in that direction. You should get 4-1, 6-1, 7-1 (the ABC affiliate's HDTV channel) and 7-2 a digital standard def channel simulcast of 7-1, 9-1 (NBC affiliate's HDTV), 9-2 (NBC's Weather Plus) and, sometimes 20.

If you can't see downtown from your house, I'm afraid you will have no luck. Of course, if you have a straight shot into Colorado Springs or, maybe with your altitude and the right angle, into Cheyenne, you just might succeed in getting their HD channels. Somebody else will have to help with those coordinates and channel numbers.

Good luck!

Thank you for such quick responses!

The good news is I bought a tv with integrated HD - a Toshiba with 1080P. I feel I have wasted a little money at this point given the quality of picture I'm getting.

The bad news is that I can't see downtown. I can see a mountain with towers to the south toward CO Springs, but it is pretty far off. My house looks over Bear Creek Canyon.

Looks like I may be out of luck and just forced to wait for the new receiver from DirectTV. In addition to better technology, the rep at DirectTV said that they were going to offer a different pricing option (renting the receiver rather than selling it).

I'll also check back to see if Santellivision has any Genesee-specific recommendations.

Again, thank you for taking the time to address my question.

Harold

GeneseeHD,

What type of antenna did you pick up? I'd definitely try a good outdoor antenna and see if you can get any signals. Don't forget trying to 'tip' the antenna as well, since these signals are so weak, it may make a difference.

There are a couple of us with a topographic program that can give elevation maps from one location to another, along with distances. With the coordinates of your place, Lookout and downtown, we can get an idea of what's in the way. We can also run them for CS.

BTW, I am a bit closer to downtown, but have a ridge in between. Line of sight isn't critical - although I'm sure it helps...

Best of luck - and welcome!

Anyone having problems with audio / video breakups on OTA KMGHDT 7.1? I get a steady signal strength of 86 - 93 on my DirectTV HD-10 tuner but am getting intermittant audio and video breakups the past few evenings. Very annoying.

Hi Harold,
I live in Chimney Creek, behind the hill the Sleeper house is on. I don't have a clear shot at downtown either, but can receive all the Republic Plaza low-power stations fine. Line-of-sight is not mandatory, but it does help.

First off, what kind of OTA antenna are you using? You really need a big, strong one. After many years of experimenting, A Yagi works for me. Even aimed at downtown, I can pickup Cheyenne, WY! But, cannot pickup KWGN form Lookout - yeah, its goofy.

If you want to chat privately or would like some help, just Private message me.

Here's some useless trivia for 'ya. A lot of people don't know that Denver was choosen as the cable capital of the US back in the 70's. The reason was, our location (long/lat) is one of the only places were you can get one bounce on satellite from both Europe and Asia.

Not that that matters anymore with digital transmission. As with digital, there's no signal loss and noise added like analog with multiple bounces.True, but it is expensive and adds delay to do multiple bounces, so networks still like to do it with one hop if at all possible.

Knew all about Denver as I've had a 10' C/Ku dish for 13 years now, and can get some of the European satellites myself (can't see the Asian sats as I'm too close to those big chunks of granite about 30 miles west… :D)

KUSA Not Broadcasting Olympics in Dolby 5.1.

As a follow-up to my email to KUSA regarding this issue, this morning I received the following reply from Don Perez:


Thank you for your note. We did initially, but found issues with the NBC feed and were getting number complaints from viewers regarding the quality of the audio. We are monitoring the situation and expect to go back once we are more confidant of the feed. Again, thank you

We went through the same issues with 5.1 audio on KMGH once they were added to Comcast, and lived without 5.1 for a number of months (as opposed to living without KMGH completely, which most people on this thread had to do).

Our beloved locals (the big 4) are now uplinked as of the 9th, but still not available to subscribers. They are on the 129 bird. It'll be an interesting comparison with OTA when they become available. I just hope this doesn't delay full power even more.

Sorry if this is old news...

www.dishchannelchart.com

Anyone having problems with audio / video breakups on OTA KMGHDT 7.1? I get a steady signal strength of 86 - 93 on my DirectTV HD-10 tuner but am getting intermittant audio and video breakups the past few evenings. Very annoying. I noticed it too. I checked the signal strength but it was listed as 10 bars (very high). :confused:

re: UPN channel 20 digital...the TitanTV listing shows several shows
in HD, but so far they have all been in SD. Is this just a goof on Titan,
or is it something else? Are any progs in HD?

First off, it was good seeing you guys again, Ernie and Mark.

Good meeting you Tim, Keith, and George.

Seemed like there was a pretty good crowd of people there for Pete and Marv's dog & pony show. They had the physical model of Lookout Mountain, and showed the computer-generated flyover of Lookout before and after. Gave a brief history of LCG and the proposals, with lots of Q&A from the audience. Cliff Notes summary for those new to the thread:

* LCG (channels 4, 7, 9, and 20) are proposing replacing the current facilities on Lookout Mountain with 1 consolidated tower and building.

* No matter what, channels 2 and 31 keep their Lookout Mountain towers and buildings - Lookout will not be free of towers if LCG fails.

* Should the consolidated tower option fail, channels 4, 7, and 9 will continue to operate their existing towers and buildings on Lookout Mountain.

* If LCG gets their approval, Golden/JeffCo get 70 acres of open space at zero cost.

* If Golden's eminent domain goes through, Golden gets 65 acres of open space at a cost of 1.7 million dollars.

* JeffCo's zoning approval for the consolidated tower still stands. The vote the JeffCo commissioners made last September only means that the commissioners think that multiple tower failure had not been adequately addressed. They did not vote to revoke the approved zoning for the new LCG tower.

* Judge Jackson is expected to have this case in his courtroom again in June or July - at the earliest. He could do a number of things, from throwing out sCARE/Golden's lawsuit, to sending the entire matter back to JeffCo commissioners, or something nobody's even thought of yet.

* Regardless of Judge Jackson's ruling, whoever loses will likely appeal that decision to a higher court.

Hm. So much for the Cliff Notes version. Anyway, those are the facts as they stand today.

After the presentation, we got a good tour of the facilities. gakon, TimA, and I snuck away from the group when we spotted Kathy Sabine in the weather center (see what you missed, Jetlag? :p ). She was gracious, signing publicity stills and posing for photographs. Eat your hearts out Ernie and Mark :)

re: UPN channel 20 digital...the TitanTV listing shows several shows
in HD, but so far they have all been in SD. Is this just a goof on Titan,
or is it something else? Are any progs in HD?
The latest info we had from KTVD (UPN 20) was that they wouldn't have HD timeshifting capabilities until May/June of this year.

Since KTVD will not be the CW affiliate here in Denver, it would appear that they no longer have a need to timeshift network HD content (you know, since they won't have a network to timeshift from). I meant to ask Don (KUSA's chief engineer) about Gannett's plans for KTVD-DT tonight, but didn't get a chance :(

TitanTV is likely flagging the shows that UPN makes available in HD right now.

A comprehensive and informative recap, thanks dr_mal!

Well, I would have gone. It would have been nice to finally meet the gang. But I sure as hell wasn't going all the way into Denver on a Wednesday evening, especially in this weather!

Anyway, great recap Dr Mal.

I think some of you in the group were in the back ground of Kirk M's I-Pod story tonight. Sure looked like a tour group.

Help, Not only was work hell yesterday, I get home to find my HK AVR is inop. I went to CC and bought another one and then find out the component video isn't working on the new one. Anyway, I thing my problem is ESDS, Since I put new carpet in we have been shocking everything we touch, Does anyone know of a discharge pad we can touch or something to discharge the voltage before we touch our AV equiptment? I was thinking of running a humidifier in the room. Any ideas?

I think some of you in the group were in the back ground of Kirk M's I-Pod story tonight. Sure looked like a tour group.
No, we weren't on the tour until after 9pm - pretty sure Kirk's a day-shift guy. And at least when my group (we were split into about 3 different groups for the tour) was in the newsroom, there wasn't much activity - just Adele working on her script for the 10:30 news, Kathy working on the snow forecast, and the web editors keeping 9news.com up to date.

Help, Not only was work hell yesterday, I get home to find my HK AVR is inop. I went to CC and bought another one and then find out the component video isn't working on the new one. Anyway, I thing my problem is ESDS, Since I put new carpet in we have been shocking everything we touch, Does anyone know of a discharge pad we can touch or something to discharge the voltage before we touch our AV equiptment? I was thinking of running a humidifier in the room. Any ideas?As a temporary winter fix, you might try spraying the carpet with fabric softener.

Gratuitous Kathy Sabine shot:
http://www.dr-mal.com/photos/2006/pics/med_sabine.jpg

That guy in the background? He was the one trying to keep us with our designated tour group :)

(photo credit: TimA)

I thought I'd throw this out to the group:

1) Where can I buy a Channelmaster antenna locally? Online? I've found an installer, but he doesn't sell the antennas. On Ernie's recommendation, I'd use the CM 3023. If you've got a better suggestion, I'd love to hear it. If it gives me a chance to get good HD reception in Castle Rock, I'd throw it on the roof.

2) Recommended installers? Like I said, I found a guy, but don't know him or his reputation. If you know of anyone reputable, please let me know.

Thanks,
Scott

2) Recommended installers? Like I said, I found a guy, but don't know him or his reputation. If you know of anyone reputable, please let me know.
I used Alpine Electronics (303) 366-5992 years ago when I had my antenna installed. They sold me a big ol' Winegard yagi (I honestly have no idea how Winegard compares to Channelmaster, but I get all the local stations up in Brighton with it, so I'm happy). Antenna and roof installation came to about $260.

My recommendation is to not mess around - put it right on the roof. Low power OTA HD is here for a while.

...I thing my problem is ESDS, Since I put new carpet in we have been shocking everything we touch, Does anyone know of a discharge pad we can touch or something to discharge the voltage before we touch our AV equiptment? I was thinking of running a humidifier in the room. Any ideas?

Mix a little liquid fabric softener in water and apply it to the carpet with a spray bottle. That should help keep the static down.

I thought I'd throw this out to the group:

1) Where can I buy a Channelmaster antenna locally? Online? I've found an installer, but he doesn't sell the antennas. On Ernie's recommendation, I'd use the CM 3023. If you've got a better suggestion, I'd love to hear it. If it gives me a chance to get good HD reception in Castle Rock, I'd throw it on the roof.

2) Recommended installers? Like I said, I found a guy, but don't know him or his reputation. If you know of anyone reputable, please let me know.

Thanks,
Scott
I would recommend solidsignal.com since there is no real local dealer. Pueblo Wintronics has the stuff but the drive to Pueblo would cost more than the shipping. Before solidly mounting the antenna you might try pointing it to the south and if it works as well for you as it does for me a rotator might be in your plans. I am due east of Castle Rock and 13.1 (ABC) has a signal in the high 80s, 11.1 (CBS) is in the 60s - both of these are with a cheap antenna on a 10' mast tied to my deck which when pointed to the south is slightly below the roofline. 5.1 (NBC) will be going on the air this spring at full power .

dr_mal

Nice photo, but I have to admit to being more of a Stacey Donaldson man ;)

Good to see you all again, as well. Nothing changes...we're in just about exactly the same situation we were in 5 years ago, except that there are now more than 20 (I was #10 or 11 if I remember right) of us that can pick up KMGH...yes, there is indeed an ABC station in Denver... :)

Other than that, Marv still has no hair, Pete does still have hair, and everyone else pretty much looks the same. The story is the same, except for the Golden (BOYCOTT GOLDEN!) eminent domain issue, which is what finally forced LCG into the television advertising and the more public website. Marv, Pete and the gang will be taking this show on the road, hitting several communities around the front range, so look for them in a town near you sometime soon. Also, be looking for an announcement of a strategic alliance between LCG and some of the higher end retailers coming soon.

I was surprised to see how well that model has held up over the years. The "before" condition hasn't fared well (is gone), and they had a downed power line (which accurately showed that a fire would NOT break out if one of the power lines were taken out), but all in all it's held up pretty well for as old as it is.

Gratuitous Kathy Sabine shot:

What, no donut? :D

Gratuitous Kathy Sabine shot:
http://www.dr-mal.com/photos/2006/pics/med_sabine.jpg

That guy in the background? He was the one trying to keep us with our designated tour group :)

(photo credit: TimA)
Your tour guide... I know that guy.

Sorry I couldn't make it last night. Sounds like a good time. I am planning on making the HD Net tour! :)

Has a date been set up for the HDNet tour and how do we sign up?

Reggie

dr_mal
So how tall is Kathy? I know the rest of the newsroom is always razing her about being so tall.

Any body have Don, Marv and Peter's email. I wanted to thank them for the talk and the tour.

dr_mal
So how tall is Kathy? I know the rest of the newsroom is always razing her about being so tall.
Well, I'm about 5'11 1/2" and judging by the photo, she's only about an inch or so shorter than me. IIRC, she had heels on, but not real tall ones. 5'9"?

Any body have Don, Marv and Peter's email. I wanted to thank them for the talk and the tour.
Don's is don.perez@9news.com
I don't think I have current addresses for Marv and Peter at the moment.

Nice photo, but I have to admit to being more of a Stacey Donaldson man ;)
Oooooo Stacey Donaldson, The Naughty Librarian.

...of course if you REALLY want to talk Weather Girl, the award has to go to Univision: :eek: :eek: :eek:

http://home.earthlink.net/~lu_max/images/Jackie1.jpg

TEMPERATURAS HOY! (and rising rapidly I might add!) ;)

Has a date been set up for the HDNet tour and how do we sign up?

Reggie
I got back to HDNet folks with a head count of over 30 so far. We are going to try to do the tour on one day (rather than two) by splitting up the group so that we will all get a chance to meet and be together as a group at the start. The HDNet folks promised to get back with a firm date soon, we are trying to schedule around their remote trucks to make sure one is there, so I have to let them work that issue. I will report the firm date here as soon as I get one, and take a head count. We are talking late March or early April, so there is plenty of time yet.

Just keep up with the thread for my announcement. BTW, there will not be an official 'sign up list', although as a courtesy to HDNet personnel I hope to give them a pretty accurate count so they can be ready to accommodate the group properly.

Gratuitous Kathy Sabine shot:
.................

That guy in the background? He was the one trying to keep us with our designated tour group :)

(photo credit: TimA)

Sorry dr_mal, unless it took at least three policeman to 'calm her down' after the photo I think Jetlag still has you beat. We will all have to keep an eye on him at the HDNet tour in order to get invited back.
:D

...of course if you REALLY want to talk Weather Girl, the award has to go to Univision: :eek: :eek: :eek:

TEMPERATURAS HOY! (and rising rapidly I might add!) ;)

HOLY MOLY!

I guess I can now say I met several people here even though I didn't introduce myself so I dont know who is who... :o I'll try to take care of that at the HDnet tour

OK, so how do I post the picture of me with Kathy? I tried the [IMG] command, but it only posted the path to the picture on my desktop, not the actual picture.

Question, how are channels 2 and 31 broadcasting both analog and digital from lookout? Are they using a single tower for both? Couldn't channels 4, 7, 9. and 20 broadcast both digital and analog from their exisiting towers on lookout??

OK, so how do I post the picture of me with Kathy? I tried the [IMG] command, but it only posted the path to the picture on my desktop, not the actual picture.
To post it inline like I did, you need to have the picture publically accessible on the internet somewhere. Then you can use the [img] tag with the picture's URL.

Or you can post it as an attachment. (Use the "Manage attachments" button below when you're on the reply page). It'll show up as a link, rather than showing directly in your post.

Question, how are channels 2 and 31 broadcasting both analog and digital from lookout? Are they using a single tower for both? Couldn't channels 4, 7, 9. and 20 broadcast both digital and analog from their exisiting towers on lookout??
From a technical perspective it is possible to have multiple antennas on the towers. The legal perspective is another matter. The towers for KCNC, KMGH, and KUSA are on property on lookout mountain that is zoned residential, but since the towers were there before the zoning regulations they get to stay. But getting permits for the addition of another antenna requires addressing the zoning. KTVD currently broadcasts from Mt. Morrison, and I don't know the legal status there, but it is probably also requires permits of some kind.

KDVR's land is zoned agricultural (or some such thing) so getting the permit wasn't subject to the same restrictions; I don't know if they have two physical towers or just one. KWGN has their DTV antenna on a second shorter tower, and there was apparently a loophole that allowed the antenna approval because it was below some height threshold (like 200 feet). Both KDVR and KWGN are transmitting at less than full power, but significantly more than the RP transmitters.

KTVD currently broadcasts from Mt. Morrison, and I don't know the legal status there, but it is probably also requires permits of some kind.

I thought KTVD was broadcasting from RP?

No, KTVD analog is on Mt Morrision. KTVD digital is on RP.

pete@grinnellgroup.com
marv@rockfordgray.com

OK, so how do I post the picture of me with Kathy? I tried the [IMG] command, but it only posted the path to the picture on my desktop, not the actual picture.You can upload it to somewhere like this for free: http://www.tinypic.com/ then put that link in your post.

OK - here goes (I'm not versed in web page building, but I did enough to be able to post the picture):

https://home.comcast.net/~gakon/onlinestorage/gksmall.jpg

Thanks, Tim!

Since I'm 5' 11", I think Kathy's about 5' 10". She did have pretty low shoes on, and my shoes were a little thick. Although I watch KUSA primarily (because it's on in HD, of course), I would certainly not turn down a tour of the KDVR studios if Stacey Donaldson were leading it. I remember her from Orlando many years ago. :D
It was good to meet some of those with whom I've been trading posts for a few years. longwood - I hope I get to make the HDNet tour.

Since I haven't been as involved with the tower fiasco for as long as some of you, it was an interesting presentation. Anyone could have signed up on the hdtvcolorado web site, and I thought that a few of the attendees might be anti-tower folks, but if there were any of them there they did not speak up. I've already mailed my share of letters (none of the recent ones have been printed, though), but Marv and Peter suggested contacting people in local government (e.g., county commissioners outside of Jeffco) to let them know of the situation and that it really doesn't just affect the Goldenites. Although we are pretty familiar with the facts, I would not be surprised of a lot of local politicians are not (especially after the Golden mayor's letter).

Why is it that no one is posting their picture with Bob Kendrick or Drew Soicher???
:rolleyes:

Dr_Mal you really do need to have that donut with you everywhere you go so people can recognize you. :)

Anyway I've never found Sabine tremendously attractive. Her face seems chiseled with make-up and I always have to turn the volume down when she comes on because her voice gives me a headache and she LOVES to talk! She seems to use two to three times as many words to say the same thing as any other weather person.

Jetlag that is awesome. She needs to be hired at KUSA and work in HD with outfits like that! I don't care if she speaks English or not. Just show me a 5 day chart with numbers on it and that's all I need as far as the weather report itself.

Was just watching KUSA after their (very) late news tonight, and they are once again passing through NBC in DD 5.1 audio. Some of the stuff from Italy sounded very good, depending on the event. It was very odd though, during the Tonight Show stuff from Burbank (which is kind of integrated with the Late Night Olympics) it was that bizarre 3.0 audio similar to what came through during the Opening Ceremonies. Weird.

Let's hope the 5.1 on KUSA lasts a little longer this time, since it seems that NBC has corrected some of its audio issues in Italy.

Why is it that no one is posting their picture with Bob Kendrick or Drew Soicher??? :rolleyes:Bob is in Italy. I would gladly have my picture taken with him if you could arrange a flight and hotel for me. ;) Drew was not around. Adele and a few of the other reporters (all female) were there, but appeared to be busy getting their stories ready. There was one male reporter in the News room (don't know who it was), but on the far side, and the aisle to that area was blocked to us non-employees. There really was no incentive to try to make it over there.
Anyway I've never found Sabine tremendously attractive. To each his own. I had a friend say something similar (he had seen her on an airplane - without the makeup). I think she looked perfectly fine. :) And she was also extremely nice to all of us (not just the geeks who wanted their pictures taken), letting us into the Weather Center area, answering questions, signing a few autographed pictures, etc. Maybe it's an act, but she was still very nice.
Jetlag that is awesome. She needs to be hired at KUSA and work in HD with outfits like that!Isn't there some show called Nearly Naked News where the reporters strip down as they read their stories? You'd probably like that - although I don't think it's in HD. ;) Now, I wouldn't mind at all if KUSA hired Univision's weather girl, but she wouldn't have to replace Kathy.
Finally, I forgot to mention that Don Perez was also very accommodating. He, our tour guide Milt (?), and the technical director (Lawrence (?), also known as our chaperone) answered a bunch of questions. Don mentioned that they did not think NBC's 5.1 feed was acceptable, and that's why they weren't passing it, although they obviously got their issues resolved for last night. He also mentioned that the picture was being "enhanced" by a couple of processors that were set improperly back in Italy. That had been fixed over the weekend, and was more evident on the SD feed than HD.

No, KTVD analog is on Mt Morrision. KTVD digital is on RP.

pete@grinnellgroup.com
marv@rockfordgray.com

At some point, shouldn't they just cut their losses? The court costs must be insane..

1) Build a digital tower on Morrison (or second antenna on current tower) for KTVD. This meets FCC requirment for matching their current footprint.

2) Build a tower on Squaw or Morrison. Move all analog to this for channels 4, 7, and 9. When foothills and Boulder users complain about having to buy a set top box they can blame Golden. Anyway, is ANYONE in the foothills or Boulder watching ANALOG OTA?? I doubt it..

3) Convert current Lookout towers to full power digital.

4) 2009- sell tower on Squaw or Morrison.

At some point, shouldn't they just cut their losses? The court costs must be insane..

1) Build a digital tower on Morrison (or second antenna on current tower) for KTVD. This meets FCC requirment for matching their current footprint.
KTVD's tower on Morrison is also non-conforming. So no modifications there either.
2) Build a tower on Squaw or Morrison. Move all analog to this for channels 4, 7, and 9. When foothills and Boulder users complain about having to buy a set top box they can blame Golden. Anyway, is ANYONE in the foothills or Boulder watching ANALOG OTA?? I doubt it..
I don't think the FCC would allow them to reduce their analog OTA footprint that much.
3) Convert current Lookout towers to full power digital.
That is their plan if the consolidation tower doesn't work out.

At some point, shouldn't they just cut their losses? The court costs must be insane..

1) Build a digital tower on Morrison (or second antenna on current tower) for KTVD. This meets FCC requirment for matching their current footprint.KTVD already has an analog tower on Morrision. But they cannot add to it technically. They would also have to go to the anti-tower JeffCo Commissioners for permits/approvals on modifcations. (We all know how tower friendly they are)2) Build a tower on Squaw or Morrison. Move all analog to this for channels 4, 7, and 9. When foothills and Boulder users complain about having to buy a set top box they can blame Golden. Anyway, is ANYONE in the foothills or Boulder watching ANALOG OTA?? I doubt it..Your opening statement says it; "The costs must me insane". Why would they spend more money to move all their analog gear and rent space at Squaw. FYI: There already is a tower there - KBDI is broadcasting from it. But, they would have to spend millions to modify it. And how do they move all their analog gear off Lookout over night? Also, The residents up there are just as ticked off as sCARE about more towers. Then they'd have to be additional public hearings in that county for construction permits etc - not pretty either. Not sure what happened to the illusive Mt. Morrison tower (KRMA, hello????)3) Convert current Lookout towers to full power digital.They will in 2009. If I was a bettin' man, I think that's whats going to happen.

Plus KTVD is being bought by KUSA and might want to consolidate.

Anyway, is ANYONE in the foothills or Boulder watching ANALOG OTA?? I doubt it.I live in Louisville and don't subscribe to cable or to local channels via satellite. All my signals are OTA.

For the record, I got perfect reception of everything from Lookout, though now my KDVR analog is unwatchable now that my UHF antenna is pointed at RP. :D

I still don't understand why the stations don't build a 1800' or so tower on the Eastern Plains and broadcast back towards the metro area instead, aside from the frequent lightning and hailstorms.

Madison, WI's community HD tower is a great example of this:

http://www.fox47.com/community/gif/candelabra-dtv.jpg

Then again, we're not the only ones fighting a tower; Chicago (http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-0510250157oct25,1,3344329.story?coll=chi-business-utl) may see a fight ahead as well…

I still don't understand why the stations don't build a 1800' or so tower on the Eastern Plains and broadcast back towards the metro area instead, aside from the frequent lightning and hailstorms.
a) reflections off of the mountains would cause multipath problems
b) 1800' tower right next to the runways at DIA? Not gonna happen.

Also, I don't think it's as much a problem for DIA as it is for the Piper cubs out of the Front Range airport.

And with a 700 foot tower on top of Lookout at about 7000' (total height 7700') would provide better coverage than an 1800' tower on the plains at about 5000' (total height 6800') Not to mention better coverage to the west over the front range foothills.

Lookout was choosen to be best 53 years ago, and it still is the best... period.

If you think about the terrain contours in the front range area and the coverage from a tower out east I think a lot of places near the foothills would have problems. For example, I suspect Davidson Mesa would block a huge portion of south Boulder from reception. As for Golden, I would think most of downtown would be dark (now that might be a good thing). I suspect if you looked at a topographical map it would take a HUGE tower out east to see into all the valleys near the mountains. I think the bigger issue with a tower out east (along with the flight path of the air traffic) is the potential interference with all of the radar systems out east measuring weather and air traffic for the airport.
Regardless of how you look at those and other issues, there was a reason the engineers chose Lookout Mt. 50 years ago (when it was in the middle of 'nowhere' way west of most of the population). It is the best solution to the coverage problem. Unless someone moves the mountains and/or relocates the city, that fact will never change.

I cannot get closed captioning on lost and invasion with my 811 reciever. Is 7.1 transmitting the captioning?

I got back to HDNet folks with a head count of over 30 so far. We are going to try to do the tour on one day (rather than two) by splitting up the group so that we will all get a chance to meet and be together as a group at the start. The HDNet folks promised to get back with a firm date soon, we are trying to schedule around their remote trucks to make sure one is there, so I have to let them work that issue. I will report the firm date here as soon as I get one, and take a head count. We are talking late March or early April, so there is plenty of time yet.

Just keep up with the thread for my announcement. BTW, there will not be an official 'sign up list', although as a courtesy to HDNet personnel I hope to give them a pretty accurate count so they can be ready to accommodate the group properly.
Thanks

Reggie

John,
Please include me in the HDNet tour - Thanks!

John,
Please include me in the HDNet tour - Thanks!
I think I have you signed up two or three times already, so you should be pretty safe. On the other hand what have you done for the group lately? ;)

To all, at this point, I am not going to count anyone new, please wait until the 'actual' date is announced and then everyone can sign up then either by posting or PM. Until that time, I will assume we will likely have more than 30 folks and we will plan accordingly. Thanks to all. Be patient, there will be plenty of time to firm up the attendance list when the actual date is here. My first post was only to confirm there was enough interest to justify the tour. I think, :eek: , we pretty much confirmed that.

Originally posted by Kucharsk
Then again, we're not the only ones fighting a tower; Chicago may see a fight ahead as well…

I didn't see any reference in the article to cancer rates, radio wave brain deformities, etc. And I suppose if it ever falls down, it's made to fall in the direction of Lake Michigan.

Marv got a nice editorial posted in the RMN/Post today.

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/speak_out/article/0,2777,DRMN_23970_4478112,00.html

I like what he had to say in the article and the HDTVColorado site also contains some good information in a well laid-out format. The question that immediately pops into my head is why the hell did they not do this 5 years ago?

The issues, facts, and costs have not changed (if anything the costs have probably increased), and we could all have been enjoying full power OTA DTV for some time. Numerous members of this thread went above and beyond in supporting the cause for years but only now do we finally begin to see LCG make a concerted effort to get things moving. I like that this is finally getting some publicity which will hopefully finally get the tower built, but I fail to see why this could not have been accomplished years ago. They have a long way to go to make up for the needless delays.

They have a long way to go to make up for the needless delays.
And the needless waste (in retrospect) of my time sitting through lengthy hearings to get my 3 minutes in front of the microphone. Or my wasted time writing letters to various entities about how ridiculous the situation is.

Oh well, 20/20 hindsight.

I must apologize to the members of this thread for unintentionally writing a serious post.

The combination of a headcold, cold medicine :confused: , freezing weather and having to spend all of my time packing for a big move have combined to temporarily stunt my sense of humor. See what happens when they remove the Ephedra from cold medicine! ;) Oh the humanity! :rolleyes: Stupid Meth dealers ruining it for everyone. :mad:

On another note, I am eagerly anticipating the next HDNet tour. Were you able to once again coordinate to have a couple of the "Bikini Destinations" girls be our tour guides JM? Will there also be free beer again?

BTW, the buyer decided that she now does NOT want me to leave my CM4228 on the roof when I move so I now have 2 of them. Anybody need one?

I like what he had to say in the article and the HDTVColorado site also contains some good information in a well laid-out format. The question that immediately pops into my head is why the hell did they not do this 5 years ago?

The issues, facts, and costs have not changed (if anything the costs have probably increased), and we could all have been enjoying full power OTA DTV for some time. Numerous members of this thread went above and beyond in supporting the cause for years but only now do we finally begin to see LCG make a concerted effort to get things moving. I like that this is finally getting some publicity which will hopefully finally get the tower built, but I fail to see why this could not have been accomplished years ago. They have a long way to go to make up for the needless delays.


I couldn't have put it better myself. Although I am glad to see Marv and the LCG finally mounting a PR attack, I can remember begging Pete and the crew to do a similar PR campaign in the press and on TV four or five years ago when it could have REALLY made a difference. Now the project is tied up in the courts for many years to come regardless of public opinion. Of course, it is also true that if the very first proposal from the LCG (back in 1998??) had been done properly and all of the required documents submitted we might never have seen any of these problems. Sorry Marv, and the rest of the LCG team, I am having a very hard time being impressed by tactics that could have been successfully used 5 years ago. "Too little, too late" for my taste. YMMV

I must apologize to the members of this thread for unintentionally writing a serious post.................
On another note, I am eagerly anticipating the next HDNet tour. Were you able to once again coordinate to have a couple of the "Bikini Destinations" girls be our tour guides JM? Will there also be free beer again?.....................

I suggested that they could use the cameras from "Get Out" and have suggested that Lindsay and Camille could join us on our adventurous and risky tour (I'm sure (S)CARE folks could confirm the danger of being around than many digital recorders). For some reason the HDNet folks don't seem to think that would make a great episode. Go Figure! :rolleyes:

Maybe a "Bikini Destinations" episode from the infamous "Jetlag Manor" would stir their interest as long as we promised to have police protection for the bikini's and their contents......I can even offer to head up the security team myself.......you know, examine all of the contents of each bikini in advance and make lengthy observations and notes for later reference, size, shape, buoyancy, tan lines, etc...... :D

Marv got a nice editorial posted in the RMN/Post today.

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/speak_out/article/0,2777,DRMN_23970_4478112,00.html

Thanks for posting this - I missed it in the paper. I reposted it on Audiworld.

Reggie

KUSA-HD OLYMPICS COVERAGE ON 53-1

While noodling around the channels this morning during the breaks in the US Hockey game (if you could call that pitiful showing a hockey game), I discovered that 9News's coverage of the Olympics was on 53-1 out of Castle Rock. Not only that, but the NASCAR that followed.

And the picture and signal were even better, crisper and stronger than 9-1.

What a nice discovery.

So if you are having trouble getting the games on 9-1, try 53-1.

Very well-written retort by Marv.
I wonder if the mayor of Golden feels about his ignorance exposed -- or perhaps he's a distant relative of GW and doesn't even read the newspaper.

Very well-written retort by Marv.
I wonder if the mayor of Golden feels about his ignorance exposed -- or perhaps he's a distant relative of GW and doesn't even read the newspaper.
As the always 'sharp as a tack' Donald Rumsfeld said a few years back, "You don't know what you don't know." In the case of the mayor, apparently there is a LOT he doesn't know. Too bad, he is being played like a sucker by the folks at (S)CARE. I wonder if he really knew and understood all the facts (such as $1.7 M to buy 65 acres of open space vs. the 75 they would get from the LCG for free) he (and for that matter, the voters of Golden) would still feel the same way?

KUSA-HD OLYMPICS COVERAGE ON 53-1

While noodling around the channels this morning during the breaks in the US Hockey game (if you could call that pitiful showing a hockey game), I discovered that 9News's coverage of the Olympics was on 53-1 out of Castle Rock. Not only that, but the NASCAR that followed.

And the picture and signal were even better, crisper and stronger than 9-1.

What a nice discovery.

So if you are having trouble getting the games on 9-1, try 53-1.

That is a great discovery. I know I can get 53-1 if I point my antenna a little to the north. I'm going to go up there tomorrow and do that.

I'm starting to think I should invest in a rotator...

Anyone notice a sudden major signal drop from KUSA, KMGH, KRMA, and KTVD around 9:40 PM this evening? OTA only.

Anyone notice a sudden major signal drop from KUSA, KMGH, KRMA, and KTVD around 9:40 PM this evening? OTA only.

My monitoring program didn't detect any signal drops. Attached is a graph of the RP stations for the last 24 hrs. The signals seem to be pretty normal for what I receive up here in Longmont.

B.J.

That's a cool monitoring system.
What's your theory regarding how steady the signal is between 9AM and 5PM and how erratic it gets outside of those times, especially between 5PM and 6PM.
I wonder if he really knew and understood all the facts (such as $1.7 M to buy 65 acres of open space vs. the 75 they would get from the LCG for free) he (and for that matter, the voters of Golden) would still feel the same way?As we know, and the mayor of Golden probably also knows, it isn't the same 65 acres they are grabbing for; it's not included in the 75 acres they would get for free. And the point isn't the open space -- it's stopping LCG from doing anything up there and trying to disgust them into moving elsewhere. It'll be 3 years almost to the day now when we truely find out if Golden is shooting itself in the foot. That may finally be the day when LCG gets the green light for breaking ground, when the last legal ploys are played.
(I know -- I'm preaching to the choir, or in this case the pastor?!)

I still don't understand why the stations don't build a 1800' or so tower on the Eastern Plains and broadcast back towards the metro area instead, aside from the frequent lightning and hailstorms.


IMHO a tower on the plains would work, but :
- You still have the Nimby problem that Lookout has (unless you go WAY east).

- County approval. I doubt this would be much easier than JeffCo. The county doesn't see much revenue, so not much incentive to approve.

- Then the stations need to pay to install the power lines, the equipment building, the tower itself, etc. They get a 'free' tower in 2009.

- There is a lot of development. I doubt it would happen in the City Limits of Parker or Aurora. I doubt it could happen within E470 or heck within 5 miles of E470.

- Need to keep away from DIa, Buckley, Front Range, Centennial somewhat limits locations, esp near I70.

- There are old tower sites close in, but NIMBY would probaly stop them. Towers right on C470 for KEZW. KOA's tower in the middle of west Parker.

- Even if they started now, it wouldn't be On-Air by 2009. A year to buy land and get it approved. A year for the appeals. A year to build - esp when everyone else will be trying to build. Just running the MW's of electricy to the site could be an issue.

- Picking and existing TV tower probably could be done. 53 has one in Castle Rock. I doubt Greely & Fort Collins residents would be thrilled with that site though.

Thanks for the info on the fabric softener on the carpet, That works great. I haven't had one shock yet since I put it down. Finally got my new AVR receiver working, The HK AVR340 has a problem, Tech support informed me that receiver can't support 1880i or 720p via the component inputs and they are working on a fix for that model, I am finally back up and running with my third AVR in three days. Back to OTA now.

I think it's safe to say LCG isn't going to move, there's just not enough incentive for them to do so. And judging by how lazy they've been about the whole thing for the past 8(?) years, I doubt they ever really wanted to build the new tower.

They're going to wait it out until 2009, and I think that was their plan all along.

Originally Posted by kucharsk
I still don't understand why the stations don't build a 1800' or so tower on the Eastern Plains and broadcast back towards the metro area instead, aside from the frequent lightning and hailstorms.


I'm not a expert in RF but I suspect that you would increase multipath problems with a antenna on the plains - and you also have issues with flight paths.

Reggie

I think it's safe to say LCG isn't going to move, there's just not enough incentive for them to do so. And judging by how lazy they've been about the whole thing for the past 8(?) years, I doubt they ever really wanted to build the new tower.

They're going to wait it out until 2009, and I think that was their plan all along.

Man - I can't understand your logic there at all. What data do you have for saying this or is it just your persona bias? Please try to distinguish yourself from the tactics SCARE and Golden politicaians are using

Reggie

The article on the 2000' tower in Chicago mentioned a price tag of $300 million to construct the tower. That seems very cost prohibitive to me. Granted, the Chicago tower is 'architectural' and anything constructed out on the eastern plains would not be (IMHO).

-Glen

That's a cool monitoring system.
What's your theory regarding how steady the signal is between 9AM and 5PM and how erratic it gets outside of those times, especially between 5PM and 6PM.


I think that the main factor is atmospheric conditions. During the daytime, the signals appear to be steadier, but they are weaker. At night, they start getting a little stronger, but they aren't quite as steady. As for the really erratic part of the signal, I think that that happens when my card gets a strong enough signal to attempt decoding it, but it gets tons of errors while decoding it, and it seems to make the readings jump up and down. Channel 4 does that alot here. It does the same thing on my LG television. The signal meter jumps up and down as well as it tries to decode a signal that is right on the edge of acceptable.

B.J.

......................
As we know, and the mayor of Golden probably also knows, it isn't the same 65 acres they are grabbing for; it's not included in the 75 acres they would get for free. And the point isn't the open space -- it's stopping LCG from doing anything up there and trying to disgust them into moving elsewhere. It'll be 3 years almost to the day now when we truely find out if Golden is shooting itself in the foot. That may finally be the day when LCG gets the green light for breaking ground, when the last legal ploys are played.
(I know -- I'm preaching to the choir, or in this case the pastor?!)
Makes you wonder if we are all smart enough to figure this out, why is it the people in Golden haven't figured it out too. Doesn't take a rocket scientist to realize the stations are just going to swap out the modulator from analog to digital and keep on broadcasting from the old towers, even "IF" Golden managed to seize the property where the new tower would go up. The LCG folks 'ain't goin away'.....all the mayor is doing is delaying the inevitable. Fortunately for the LCG, unfortunately for the public, the LCG saves a ton of money in the meantime, and yes Reggie, there are some of us who suspect that the LCG station never really wanted to build a new tower in the first place. It's all about the bottom line cost. Just my $0.02, YMMV.

That's just what I believe, Reggie.

What data do I have?

History.

LCG simply dragged its feet for most of this thing. And I'm sure a lot of the "old timers" here can agree with me on that.

I'm not a expert in RF but I suspect that you would increase multipath problems with a antenna on the plains - and you also have issues with flight paths.FWIW, I wasn't thinking Fort Collins but more like Firestone, Mead or perhaps southeast Arapahoe County.

Lookout is the best location from an engineering point of view, but from a "We need to get this done in the next year or so" perspective it sucks. The only place I can think of that would see more public opposition to a tower is anywhere in the Boulder area. (For example, I always thought a tower on the Rocky Flats land would work well…)

LCG simply dragged its feet for most of this thing. And I'm sure a lot of the "old timers" here can agree with me on that.Not an old timer here, but I agree.

If LCG had been serious, they would have been running the ads they have been for years.

In fact LCG should have been running the ads for at least six months prior to the very first meeting with Judge Jackson.

Call me cynical, but it seems a bit too convenient that they're trying to build a groundswell of support when timing is such that it appears the LCG tower would never be finished before the 2009 cutover.

I'd like to see it happen, but I honestly think SCARE could keep things wrapped up in court at least through the cutover date regardless of whether Jackson gives his OK or not…

We've all been told by LCG that they they will simply change out the transmitters in the buildings on Lookout to digital at the cutoff. I think we all are starting to agree that this is most likely what will happen. And LCG truly believes it's a no-brainer and totally legal. (Digital is 'same service' as analog. I agree it is too)

But, we all know the Wicked Witch is concocting some sort of legal interference right now. What happens when the sheriff lays down that court injunction to stop broadcasting digital?

I know it's only about 1000 days away, (Jetlag, please build us a countdown clock) but I think LCG better start planning powerful, pre-emtive legal action now or it might be pretty sad day when our TV's go dark.

But, we all know the Wicked Witch is concocting some sort of legal interference right now. What happens when the sheriff lays down that court injunction to stop broadcasting digital?I say the stations call her bluff and announce that they are going off the air until the injunction is lifted. This is the point at which the governor and legislature start to get involved, IMHO.

I say the stations call her bluff and announce that they are going off the air until the injunction is lifted. This is the point at which the governor and legislature start to get involved, IMHO.

And better yet - SUE her (and all of (S)Care) for lost revenue. Gotta go blind for all, including any SAT and CABLE to make this worthwhile.

Could also SUE for the cost of their license fees as well - IN FEDERAL COURTS for this one, since these come from the feds.

(I guess I woke up on the wrong side of the bed this AM) ... Why can't this be resolved quickly - like the cell phone towers that the feds force approval? And those are subscribed networks, not free OTA like this.

# Matt

Why can't this be resolved quickly - like the cell phone towers that the feds force approval? And those are subscribed networks, not free OTA like this.


Probably because the NAB didn't spend as many lobby bucks as the CTIA did back in 1996. ;-)

The CTIA was able to get the local law preemption stuff written into the telecommunications act of 1996 for their towers. (Much as E* and D* were able to get the little dish preemption written in too.)

The broadcasters, on the other hand, went the regulatory route and submitted a petition to the FCC to do the same for their towers in 1997. The FCC issued a notice of proposed rulemaking that year, however, I can't find the outcome of that NPRM on the FCC's website.

My guess is the FCC dropped the ball under pressure from the environmental lobby (and the enviromental lobby's supporting congresscritters) and the broadcasters didn't force the issue. Hence, the FCC never issued a final rule and order.

(At least I couldn't find a final rule and order on the FCC website. I didn't search the Federal Register though. Maybe the final rule and order is in there *somewhere*.)

(If you visit http://gullfoss2.fcc.gov/prod/ecfs/comsrch_v2.cgi and search for proceeding 97-182 you can check out all the comments on the proceeding starting with the initial NPRM.)

-Glen

Yesterday I sent a letter to all three Larimer County commissioners, as well as Wayne Allard, Ken Salazar, and Marilyn Musgrave about the HDTV problem. I'm eagerly awaiting their responses. So far, I've received Allard's "thank you for contacting me" canned automated reply. I'm interested to hear what these folks have to say on this situation. I'll keep the forum posted on their reponses as I get them.

-Glen

Got a letter from the Golden Mayor today. Thank you for emailing me about your concerns concerning Golden’s plan to purchase land on Lookout Mountain. Please excuse my delay in responding to your email. However, both the City’s Public Information Officer and I were out of town much of last week. When I returned, I had considerable work to prepare for several meetings.

Many different issues have been discussed at City Council and with the County Commissioners by many different individuals. Golden’s official position only deals with one of those concerns, that is preserving the mountain backdrop as open space. Our position is not related to the health effects that you mention in your email.

The citizens in Golden are strongly in favor of protecting our boundaries and mountain back drop. In 2002, they authorized the city to spend $3 million for the purchase of open space on the two table mountains, Lookout Mountain and Mount Zion. Through a cooperative effort with businesses and Jefferson County Open Space, large quantities of land in and near Golden have been preserved as open space.

It is important to note that the City of Golden is offering to purchase land on Lookout Mountain from multiple owners, not just Lake Cedar Group. The purpose of these purchases is to keep the land as open space and to preserve the mountain backdrop. The property owned by Lake Cedar Group that Golden has offered to buy does not have the proper zoning to build the HD tower. The request to change the zoning was denied by the Jefferson County Commissioners.

We hope you will take more time to learn about the City’s position on this issue as we believe our position is in the best interest of both the citizens of Golden and the people of Colorado. Thank you for your input.

Charles J. Baroch, City of Golden MayorI wrote him back and set him straight on a few points! Let's see if he responds.

I have one question for the Golden Mayor:

What will look better against the mountain backdrop: four towers or one tower?

-Glen

Yesterday I sent a letter to all three Larimer County commissioners, as well as Wayne Allard, Ken Salazar, and Marilyn Musgrave about the HDTV problem. I'm eagerly awaiting their responses. So far, I've received Allard's "thank you for contacting me" canned automated reply. I'm interested to hear what these folks have to say on this situation. I'll keep the forum posted on their reponses as I get them.

-Glen

Glen - let me know if you hear anything back. There really is not much Larimer can do IMHO. It's not a issue for Larimer.
The problem is with the FCC - who use to step in and help in these kind of issues so perhaps Ken and Wayne as well as Marilyn are the right people - I doubt that Wayne and Marilyn have many supporters in the Golden area anyway.

I am a personal friend with one of the commissioners - and they are aware of the issue for the past couple of months.

Reggie

"I have one question for the Golden Mayor:

What will look better against the mountain backdrop: four towers or one tower?"

Or, ONE tower and ONE (nearly invisible) building, compared to what all is up there now.

That's just what I believe, Reggie.

What data do I have?

History.

LCG simply dragged its feet for most of this thing. And I'm sure a lot of the "old timers" here can agree with me on that.

Well I would tend to lean toward mistakes by LCG before I would lean toward treachery first - given no data.

I personally have experience dealing with city and county officials - both professionally and with HOA and election issues. I expect LCG was doing what they thought was the best path to obtain approval. It is not easy to walk the line between feds, county and local officials - as well as the tree humpers too. And to do this with making a profit :)

Just my humble opinion

Reggie

FWIW, I wasn't thinking Fort Collins but more like Firestone, Mead or perhaps southeast Arapahoe County.

…)

I agree that you could find the property for it out East (and no I never even thought of FTC)
But a station antenna aimed at the west would refect off the mountains gving us multipath nightmare. If some one was to the south or north - they would be receiving the same signal strength from the anteanna and the reflection. But perhaps I don't know RF at all.

Reggie

Hey guess what?

I got an email from the Golden Communication Mgr. Sabrina Henderson. We exchanged some emails today. As I pointed out some of the Mayor's mis-statements, she would like to meet to discuss them. I really do think they don't have a clue to the real facts in this. I said, sure, so, next week, I have a meeting scheduled with her. Not sure if the mayor will be available yet. But, she's seems very sharp, unlike some others at City Hall.

Can't wait!!!!

Reggie,

I'll definitely let you know what I hear back.

-Glen

Hey guess what?

I got an email from the Golden Communication Mgr. Sabrina Henderson. We exchanged some emails today. As I pointed out some of the Mayor's mis-statements, she would like to meet to discuss them. I really do think they don't have a clue to the real facts in this. I said, sure, so, next week, I have a meeting scheduled with her. Not sure if the mayor will be available yet. But, she's seems very sharp, unlike some others at City Hall.

Can't wait!!!!

Good luck Ernie and nice job. Keep us up to date with any progress. It really seems that the mayor and staff were fed a bunch of BS by Deb Carney and the (S)CARE folks and they never bothered to question the validity of any of the spoon fed 'stuff'. It would be a true 'yuk' if the mayor changed his mind, but I doubt it. He would have to admit in public he made a mistake, not something politicians are likely to do.

OK folks. I heard back from HDNet people today and they suggested two dates. April 10 or April 3 at 4:00PM.

I proposed that we hold the tour on April 10 with the date of April 3 as the alternate date if a remote truck will not be there on the tenth.

For those of you not checking ahead, April 3 is the night of the NCAA Final Four Championship Game, so I assume many of you will have friends over or at least plan to watch the game in HD that night on CBS. Although the tour is at 4:00PM, I assume that some of the group might be interested in finding a nearby pub and/or restaurant for an impromptu and wholly unauthorized meeting along with some HD talk after the tour. I would welcome any suggestions of a location near HDNet. Of course that is not likely to happen on the third. If I have overlooked something on the 10th let me know, but I think this is the better way to go. So at least for now, assume we are on for the 10'th of April.

**SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS****

I will need a head count as close as possible for the HDNet folks so please let me know in the thread or by PM if you will be able to be at the tour. This is NOT a first come first serve event, so wait to commit until you are sure you will be there. Late RSVP's will still be accepted. No, you will not be charged with a crime if you have to back out at the last minute (although you may be required to read and report on all Jeffco hearing minutes from the past 5 years).

As a courtesy to the HDNet people we owe them a fairly accurate head count. As I have said before, any AVSforum member in the area is welcome, although if the head count gets too large we may have to plan a second night. If you want to bring a friend or family member, that is allowed, but lets try to keep it under control (i.e. don't invite 15 friends). For now, I will assume we will split into groups to fit in the various rooms. Finally, Jetlag will require a special escort, so anyone willing to help me keep an eye on him let me know.......
:eek:

***DIRECTIONS****

HDNet information can be found at
HDNet web page and address (http://hd.net/factsheet.html)

A map to the location (Colorado Studios) is located at:

Colorado Studios (http://www.coloradostudios.com/)

where you will click on "map"

Additional driving directions (once you have the address) can also be found at:

Mapquest Directions (http://www.mapquest.com/directions/)


******

Let the "official" headcount begin.....NOW>>>>> :)

Sounds like a winner to me.

Count one up.

Gracias.

OK folks. I heard back from HDNet people today and they suggested two dates. April 10 or April 3 at 4:00PM.

I proposed that we hold the tour on April 10 with the date of April 3 as the alternate date if a remote truck will not be there on the tenth.

So at least for now, assume we are on for the 10'th of April.

**SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS****

I will need a head count as close as possible for the HDNet folks so please let me know in the thread or by PM if you will be able to be at the tour. This is NOT a first come first serve event, so wait to commit until you are sure you will be there. Late RSVP's will still be accepted. No, you will not be charged with a crime if you have to back out at the last minute (although you may be required to read and report on all Jeffco hearing minutes from the past 5 years).

As a courtesy to the HDNet people we owe them a fairly accurate head count. As I have said before, any AVSforum member in the area is welcome, although if the head count gets too large we may have to plan a second night. If you want to bring a friend or family member, that is allowed, but lets try to keep it under control (i.e. don't invite 15 friends). For now, I will assume we will split into groups to fit in the various rooms. Finally, Jetlag will require a special escort, so anyone willing to help me keep an eye on him let me know.......
:eek:


Let the "official" headcount begin.....NOW>>>>> :)

By what date do you need the official/semi-final head count (i.e., RSVP date)?

By what date do you need the official/semi-final head count (i.e., RSVP date)?
How 'bout we say the Friday before the date (April 7), although I would guess even after that a change of a couple of people in the head count wouldn't matter that much. I will be keeping the HDNet folks informed with a count periodically for the next few weeks. Bottom line, if you are planning to come, let me know, if you are not clear, you can PM me with the issues and I can choose to include you in my count to HDNet depending upon my choice. The number is NOT hard and fast, as I said, it is a courtesy to the HDNet folks so they know about how many tour guides to have and how long they will need to be there.

I'm in for the 10th.

Hey guess what?

I got an email from the Golden Communication Mgr. Sabrina Henderson. We exchanged some emails today. As I pointed out some of the Mayor's mis-statements, she would like to meet to discuss them. I really do think they don't have a clue to the real facts in this. I said, sure, so, next week, I have a meeting scheduled with her. Not sure if the mayor will be available yet. But, she's seems very sharp, unlike some others at City Hall.

Can't wait!!!!
Great work, Ernie.

Let them know if they drop their Eminent Domain BS and the lawsuit in JeffCo I'll be willing to end my Golden boycott. I'm sure that'll be the deciding factor for them ;)

I'm in for the 10th.
Got you down Ernie, mostly on the strength of your recent work to convince the mayor of Golden to get informed. Up until then, to be honest, well, I mean, what had you done for us lately......
:D

I should be able to make the 10th but I do not have my April schedule yet. I will confirm as soon as I am able. Usually when I'm let me out in public they just strap me down "Hannibal Lechter" style, hopefully that will be sufficient for the folks at HDNet this time. BTW, I think "Shotgun's" is just down the street from the HDNet facilities. ;)

ERNIE FOR MAYOR OF GOLDEN! I DARE you to wear your "Boycott Golden" T-Shirt to the meeting!

Hmmmm, post #911, hopefully not an omen! :eek:

One more thing, Ernie.

Here's what the JeffCo BCC decided on Sept 27, 2005:

MCCASKY: Thank you Mr. Chairman. After both hearings, I move that this
Board find that the tower set back is sufficient to prevent multiple
tower failures from impacting dwellings occupied by persons other
than the tower owner.
AUBURN: Second.
CLERK: Commissioner McCasky?
MCCASKY: Before I cast my vote, I would like to make a brief statement in
deference to our citizens and the sweeping impact that has been
discussed. And I have spent an inordinate amount of time in
deference to this issue and reviewing the documentation, reviewing
the testimony and hearing, reading everything that we have had
given to us. And following sort of the narrow construct of Judge
Jackson's opinion and instructions and from my interpretation on
the Zoning Regulation, you know I have to make a determination of
the regulation as written and not how I would have written it. I do
believe that the applicant complies with the regulation as it is
written and therefore I vote yes.
CLERK: Commissioner Auburn?
AUBURN: No.
CLERK: Commissioner Congrove?
CONGROVE: No.
See what they voted on? Not the rezoning! The vote was to find that the tower setback was sufficient. Two to one said no. But the vote was NOT to deny the rezoning. The vote was not to approve rezoning. The vote was simply this: "Is the tower setback sufficient?"

Make sure the Golden reps understand that. The BCC minutes can be found here: http://www.co.jefferson.co.us/ctb/minutes/2005/092705.pdf

I'm with Jetlag, you have to wear that shirt to the meeting Ernie!

Channel 18.3?

Noodling around the channels yesterday I came upon a new PBS channel. 18.3.

Does anybody know what this channel is or where it originates from? Or am I getting an amazing skip wave?

I received this from the Kipling & Simms intersection of Central Jefferson County.

Thanks!

DT18 is just our good 'ol KRMA6 here in Denver. They transmit from Republic Plaza.

I should be able to make the 10th but I do not have my April schedule yet. I will confirm as soon as I am able. Usually when I'm let me out in public they just strap me down "Hannibal Lechter" style, hopefully that will be sufficient for the folks at HDNet this time. BTW, I think "Shotgun's" is just down the street from the HDNet facilities. ;)

ERNIE FOR MAYOR OF GOLDEN! I DARE you to wear your "Boycott Golden" T-Shirt to the meeting!

Hmmmm, post #911, hopefully not an omen! :eek:

You know, this is an election year, folks. This can be attacked politically.

Several options:

1) Start a political action committee specifically for the purpose of settling this issue. It's fairly easy. You file down at the Secretary of State's office in Denver. There are some rules to follow concerning keeping track of money and such and how it's spent. But it's almost a no-brainer.

Name it something like "Security for the Front Range Political Action Committee", because, when this is all done, the current frequencies go to use with police, fire and such. Donate money through this PAC to the people who support the PAC's position. You can also run "educational" TV and radio spots as the election draws near. Put the politicos on the defensive. People are very angry with pols these days. Tap into that, especially as a public safety issue

2) If somebody lives in Golden, RUN FOR CITY COUNCIL. But don't be just a one-issue candidate. Alert the "HDTVColorado" group that you're running. Something tells me you may get a bit of air time as we get closer to November. They may even contribute to your campaign through their PAC.

3) Run for county commissioner. One seat is open. The Dems already have one announced candidate. Find out if she is pro- or anti-tower. If she's pro, support her through option 1 above. If anti and you're a Democrat, get into this thing and put on the pressure. If you're a Rep, give the current commissioner the threat of a primary to deal with. Let's see if that doesn't change his mind.

4) Attend your caucus on March 21. Draft an initiative for your party's platform and persuade the people at the caucus to vote for it. Work on getting it on the county party's platform, the object really being to get it debated so you can take the floor at the county party assembly and argue the issue before a large group of very motivated people.

5) Canvass family, friends, work colleagues, and other interested parties to contact the governor's office. Even though he's out at the end of the year, you may still be able to put pressure on him, especially if he's otherwise still politically motivated. Ask that he convene a special session of the legislature if they don't step in and resolve this state security issue in the regular session. If you can get several hundred people to call or, even better, several thousand to sign a petition, delivering it to him and the whole general assembly, you may begin to see some action by the state. In the meantime, also contact your representatives at the General Assembly. They're in session right now and blew a whole day screwing around about immigration, which they can't do much about at all. Ask them to revoke home rule from both Jefferson County and Golden on this one issue. Drive home the message that this is a security issue for the state and that Golden is acting against the state's best interests. Mention that you are a member of the PAC (see 1 above) and that the PAC is looking for worthy candidates for campaign contributions. If they are unresponsive and you live in those House and Senate districts, get involved in the process and run for office. Deadlines for filing campaign papers are approaching, as the caucuses are in late March.

6) This is a long-range issue, but maybe it's time to reinvestigate the idea of Jeffco becoming a City and County, on the scale of Denver, with a mayor and city council. Jeffco's population is larger than the state of Wyoming. It's administered to by a three person commission and an unelected county manager, whereas Wyoming does it with a full legislature and governor. Something's not right about that. This is another way to put pressure on the powers that be... we're pushing to take away their kingdom if they block these efforts to make the front range more secure in this post-9/11 era. There are more stakeholders in this than just in Golden.


You guys should be at the end of the letter-writing campaign. Email is easy to ignore as are letters to the editor. One or two dispondent citizens are easy to placate. If the pols don't perceive you as a threat to their campaign funds (a politician's blood) or power, they will ignore you. They will blow you off, as we saw from that email by the mayor of Golden.

Being a campaign year, however, you can start hitting them over the head with a political stick. They love their political campaign money. They hate opposition. They hate threats to their power. They love those willing to help them get money, keep power and win favor with those who will keep them in both. That means you can use political leverage to drive home your agenda. You should be preparing for political battle, folks.

And I know this first hand... Not only was I a county political party secretary and the member of the state central and executive committees for that party, I also ran for the state senate four years ago. Although I didn't win, my opponent began to sound like me on a few issues after a while. And when she went back to the senate, she acted on those few issues as I would have. And that was not how she saw things initially. Even if you lose an election, you can still move the opponent over to your position and get things done.

Political pressure's the thing. Use it.

DT18 is just our good 'ol KRMA6 here in Denver. They transmit from Republic Plaza.

Any idea why they're broadcasting in DT/HDTV on two channels? They rechannel to 6-1 and 18-3. Or am I getting one heck of a harmonic?

I'm with Jetlag, you have to wear that shirt to the meeting Ernie! I'm not sure they'll let me meet with them when they see my 'Boycott Golden' bumper sticker!

And Bob, it seems all the stations are constanly messing with thier re-mapping and sub-channels. It's impossible to keep track on a daily basis of what they are sending out.

There was an article in RMN with James Morgese last week. He mentions plans for a couple of sub-channels. I found it...

http://www.denverpost.com/search/ci_3523835

I'm not sure they'll let me meet with them when they see my 'Boycott Golden' bumper sticker!

And Bob, it seems all the stations are constanly messing with thier re-mapping and sub-channels. It's impossible to keep track on a daily basis of what they are sending out.

There was an article in RMN with Bob Morganese last week. He mentions plans for a couple of sub-channels.
Hey Ernie, just in case you mysteriously 'disappear' around the time of your meeting with the mayor, could you leave a note that says I can have your gear if you are not heard from for six months or more??? If your 'sleeping with the fishes', you gear will likely start to rust and someone needs to take care of it. I would be happy to do that for you. (Just the kind of charitable guy I am).
:D

John, sure, you can have the audio gear, anybody else? Jetlag, want my Marantz PJ? ;)

I'm not sure yet, if the Mayor will show. But, who knows. I'd like to present as much hard facts and law as I can. Anybody got a link to the FCC/cell phone cases where the FCC overode the local govt.? That'd be fun! And anything else I can present. Thanks Doc for the post on the last page.

Count me in for the HD Net tour on the 10th, Looking fwd to it.

Count me in too for the 10th.

Reggie

Me too on the 10th.

2 for the 10th.

Thanks!

Count me in on the 10th

Matt

I'm not sure yet, if the Mayor will show. But, who knows. I'd like to present as much hard facts and law as I can. Anybody got a link to the FCC/cell phone cases where the FCC overode the local govt.? That'd be fun! And anything else I can present. Thanks Doc for the post on the last page.

Here's a list of letters from the FCC to local governments bascially telling them that they cannot impede the construction of wireless communications towers. Is digital TV "wireless communications?" Some parts of the FCC's website lead me to believe it is, while others do not. Read and enjoy.

http://wireless.fcc.gov/siting/local-state-gov.html

Here's a list of letters from the FCC to local governments bascially telling them that they cannot impede the construction of wireless communications towers. Is digital TV "wireless communications?" Some parts of the FCC's website lead me to believe it is, while others do not. Read and enjoy.

http://wireless.fcc.gov/siting/local-state-gov.html

I think the gotcha on that page is the word "personal."

I just got off the phone with the FCC. A final rule and order was never issued in MM 97-182 (FCC 97-296), "Preemption of State and Local Zoning and Land Use Restrictions on the Siting, Placement, and Construction of Broadcast Station Transmission Facilities."

-Glen

Count me in for HDNet and some of Ernie's stuff.

Count myself +1 for the HDNet tour on the 10th.

You go Ernie.............

John,

The 10th is just fine with me.

DIRECTV Announces Next 24 Markets to Receive High-Definition Local Channels in Spring 2006; Local HD Markets Will Total 36, Representing More Than 58 Percent of U.S. Television Homes
EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 22, 2006--Continuing to widely expand its local high-definition (HD) programming services, DIRECTV, Inc. (NYSE: DTV), the nation's leading digital television service provider, today named the next 24 U.S. markets that will receive local HD programming.

Beginning in April of this year, DIRECTV will roll out the first of the 24 new markets, offering HD programming from the four primary broadcast networks -- ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC. Customers with the appropriate DIRECTV HD receiving equipment, who subscribe to a programming package that includes local channels, will receive both the standard and HD signals at no extra monthly charge.

The 24 local markets to receive HD programming include:

Baltimore
Birmingham, Ala.
Charlotte, N.C.
Cleveland
Columbus, Ohio
Denver
Fresno, Calif.
Hartford, Conn.
Indianapolis
Kansas City, Mo./Kan.
Miami
Milwaukee, Wisc.
Minneapolis, Minn.
Nashville, Tenn.
Orlando, Fla.
Phoenix
Pittsburgh
Raleigh, N.C.
Sacramento, Calif.
Salt Lake City
San Diego
Seattle
St Louis, Mo.
West Palm Beach, Fla.

"The expansion of local HD programming is one of the cornerstones of our brand strategy to provide the best entertainment experience for DIRECTV's customers and sets us apart from our competition," said Dan Fawcett, executive vice president, DIRECTV, Inc. "With the rollout of 24 new local HD markets, we will offer access to DIRECTV-delivered local HD programming to 58 percent of U.S. television homes. We expect to expand our HD local coverage to even more markets later this year."

DIRECTV currently offers standard-definition local channels in 141 markets, covering nearly 94 percent of television households in the country, as well as 12 HD local channel markets, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Tampa and Washington, D.C. With the launch of two new satellites -- DIRECTV 10 and DIRECTV 11 -- in 2007, DIRECTV will have the ability to deliver more than 1,500 local HD and digital channels and 150 national HD channels, in addition to new advanced programming services for customers.

All DIRECTV local HD programming is being transmitted via MPEG-4 AVC, the new standard in digital video compression and advanced modulation that more than doubles the efficiency of DIRECTV's capacity.

Customers can receive local HD channels by purchasing the new H20 HD receiver and a satellite dish that has the ability to receive programming from five different orbital locations and Ka-band signals. Through Feb. 28, DIRECTV is offering new and existing customers a $200 mail-in rebate on the purchase of a DIRECTV HD Receiver. (Limit one rebate per account.) Receiving equipment is available at major consumer electronics retailers like Best Buy and Circuit City, and through DIRECTV.

About DIRECTV, Inc.

DIRECTV, Inc. is the nation's leading digital television service provider with more than 15 million customers. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. DIRECTV (NYSE: DTV) is a world-leading provider of digital multichannel television entertainment services. DIRECTV is approximately 34 percent owned by News Corporation.

CONTACT: DIRECTV, Inc.
Robert Mercer, 310-726-4683
rgmercer@directv.com

SOURCE: DIRECTV, Inc.

I think we may have a break.

I think we may have a break. Deb's moved to Canada. ;)

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/02/22/canada_uni_wifi_ban/
:D hahahahahahahahahaha...

Ernie:

God love ya. You have too much time on your hands when you are not traveling. But, aren't we glad!!!

I think we may have a break. Deb's moved to Canada. ;)

http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/02/22/canada_uni_wifi_ban/

"All I’m saying ...............Admittedly that’s highest around the locations of the antenna sites and the wireless hot spots, but those are the places people tend to gravitate to because they get the best reception," Gilbert said, ...............


:eek:Thank you "Captain Obvious"......but isn't that the way radio is supposed to work?:eek:

Actually that gives me a great idea, what if we put the LCG antenna some place on a mountain in South America, that way we could avoid those 'nasty hot spots' in the Denver area? Maybe people would quit gravitating to the Denver area just to get better reception..... where is Al Hislop when you really need him?
:rolleyes:

DIRECTV Announces Next 24 Markets to Receive High-Definition Local Channels in Spring 2006; Local HD Markets Will Total 36, Representing More Than 58 Percent of U.S. Television Homes
EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 22, 2006--Continuing to widely expand its local high-definition (HD) programming services, DIRECTV, Inc. (NYSE: DTV), the nation's leading digital television service provider, today named the next 24 U.S. markets that will receive local HD programming.

Beginning in April of this year, DIRECTV will roll out the first of the 24 new markets, offering HD programming from the four primary broadcast networks -- ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC. Customers with the appropriate DIRECTV HD receiving equipment, who subscribe to a programming package that includes local channels, will receive both the standard and HD signals at no extra monthly charge.

The 24 local markets to receive HD programming include:

Baltimore
Birmingham, Ala.
Charlotte, N.C.
Cleveland
Columbus, Ohio
Denver
Fresno, Calif.
Hartford, Conn.
Indianapolis
Kansas City, Mo./Kan.
Miami
Milwaukee, Wisc.
Minneapolis, Minn.
Nashville, Tenn.
Orlando, Fla.
Phoenix
Pittsburgh
Raleigh, N.C.
Sacramento, Calif.
Salt Lake City
San Diego
Seattle
St Louis, Mo.
West Palm Beach, Fla.

"The expansion of local HD programming is one of the cornerstones of our brand strategy to provide the best entertainment experience for DIRECTV's customers and sets us apart from our competition," said Dan Fawcett, executive vice president, DIRECTV, Inc. "With the rollout of 24 new local HD markets, we will offer access to DIRECTV-delivered local HD programming to 58 percent of U.S. television homes. We expect to expand our HD local coverage to even more markets later this year."

DIRECTV currently offers standard-definition local channels in 141 markets, covering nearly 94 percent of television households in the country, as well as 12 HD local channel markets, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Tampa and Washington, D.C. With the launch of two new satellites -- DIRECTV 10 and DIRECTV 11 -- in 2007, DIRECTV will have the ability to deliver more than 1,500 local HD and digital channels and 150 national HD channels, in addition to new advanced programming services for customers.

All DIRECTV local HD programming is being transmitted via MPEG-4 AVC, the new standard in digital video compression and advanced modulation that more than doubles the efficiency of DIRECTV's capacity.

Customers can receive local HD channels by purchasing the new H20 HD receiver and a satellite dish that has the ability to receive programming from five different orbital locations and Ka-band signals. Through Feb. 28, DIRECTV is offering new and existing customers a $200 mail-in rebate on the purchase of a DIRECTV HD Receiver. (Limit one rebate per account.) Receiving equipment is available at major consumer electronics retailers like Best Buy and Circuit City, and through DIRECTV.

About DIRECTV, Inc.

DIRECTV, Inc. is the nation's leading digital television service provider with more than 15 million customers. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. DIRECTV (NYSE: DTV) is a world-leading provider of digital multichannel television entertainment services. DIRECTV is approximately 34 percent owned by News Corporation.

CONTACT: DIRECTV, Inc.
Robert Mercer, 310-726-4683
rgmercer@directv.com

SOURCE: DIRECTV, Inc.


I would not get too excited about this, D* is having plenty of technical issues with HD LiL, enough to make me go the OTA route once I found I could receive them out here. I am just hoping in a couple years once they get their next two sats up the quality will improve

John, Put me down for 2 people for the HDNet tour.
Thx

Does someone know if any of the LCG stations have a current analog tower configuration that would be well suited for installing an additional transmitter for analog broadcasts?

If so, it seems to me that one other LCG channel could move their analog broadcasts to that tower (i.e. two analog channels broadcasting from one analog tower), then the vacated tower could be torn down, and the new tower built in its place.

The costs for adding the analog facilities for the one station could be shared amongst all of the LGC stations. This might prove to be a more economically viable solution than spending time and money on television advertising, litigation, expert testimony, etc.

And then, LCG could sell the land they purchased for the new tower back to Golden. (Which they will promptly sell to a housing developer despite their 'we are only interested in preserving the mountain backdrop' mantra)

Perhaps if the terrorists - I mean elected officials - in Golden get the opportunity to line their pockets, this tower thing can finally go forward....

One more benefit for Golden in the long-run is that there would be one fewer tower remaining after the switchover in 2009. That should help preserve their precious (housing development) ‘backdrop’.

I don’t have a clue as to how feasible this really is, just trying to think outside of the box here… And, I can't fall asleep... (it's almost 3 am now. GOODGOD!)

Chris

Does someone know if any of the LCG stations have a current analog tower configuration that would be well suited for installing an additional transmitter for analog broadcasts?

If so, it seems to me that one other LCG channel could move their analog broadcasts to that tower (i.e. two analog channels broadcasting from one analog tower), then the vacated tower could be torn down, and the new tower built in its place.
I may not understand your suggestion precisely, but I think the problem is as follows: The existing towers and transmitters on Lookout Mountain do not comply with current zoning for the area, but are permitted to continue because they pre-date the zoning. Once an existing tower is torn down, anything new that goes in its place has to conform with current zoning regulations - which just gets us back to where we are already with LCG2.

However, there is nothing to preclude the stations from using their existing towers and transmitters forever. Three out of the four LCG2 stations have elected to keep their current analog frequencies for digital after the 2009 shutoff, so their existing transmitters will work just fine. And Golden will look mighty spiteful and stupid if they try to force KCNC off-the-air while leaving the other three alone.

Slight correction: KTVD will move from channel 20 to 19, but that's close enough that the same transmitter will probably work.

Another station on Lookout Mountain, KRMA, was originally part of the LCG consortium but dropped out a couple of years ago. In theory they were going to put up a digital transmitter on Mt. Morrison, but nothing has been happening on that front. They also have chosen to keep their existing frequency (ch 6) after the analog shutoff and could also stay on Lookout Mountain forever.

I may not understand your suggestion precisely, but I think the problem is as follows: The existing towers and transmitters on Lookout Mountain do not comply with current zoning for the area, but are permitted to continue because they pre-date the zoning. Once an existing tower is torn down, anything new that goes in its place has to conform with current zoning regulations - which just gets us back to where we are already with LCG2.

However, there is nothing to preclude the stations from using their existing towers and transmitters forever. Three out of the four LCG2 stations have elected to keep their current analog frequencies for digital after the 2009 shutoff, so their existing transmitters will work just fine. And Golden will look mighty spiteful and stupid if they try to force KCNC off-the-air while leaving the other three alone.

Slight correction: KTVD will move from channel 20 to 19, but that's close enough that the same transmitter will probably work.

Another station on Lookout Mountain, KRMA, was originally part of the LCG consortium but dropped out a couple of years ago. In theory they were going to put up a digital transmitter on Mt. Morrison, but nothing has been happening on that front. They also have chosen to keep their existing frequency (ch 6) after the analog shutoff and could also stay on Lookout Mountain forever.

I wonder if they can continue to broadcast in analog - and still put in the digital equipment to use the existing antennas? If yes - why don't they do it now?? Even if it is the low power stuff they presently are using? I think I would even have a chance to receive it here in FTC.

Reggie

They can't use the same antennas to broadcast two different frequencies. And, as stated many times before, they can't add new antennas to the towers. They can put the digital equipment in place, so that at midnight on 2/17/09 they can go in to the buildings, reconnect some cables, and be broadcasting in digital in a few hours. That is what they stated at the open house last week, and it's what a lot of people here think will eventually happen.

In most cases analog plants requires a major retrofit to do digital. The filtering is different as are the signal corrections. In analog the corrections are mostly manual while in digital they are automatic. They would be better off planting a new digital package in the same building and set it up into a dummy antenna for test. Then just switch the whole mess to air... If their antennas are good enough.. Have they changed the analog antennas within the past 10 years or so?

I would not get too excited about this, D* is having plenty of technical issues with HD LiL, enough to make me go the OTA route once I found I could receive them out here. I am just hoping in a couple years once they get their next two sats up the quality will improveOnce again, why are people getting excited about paying for HD-Lite versions of signals they should be getting for free?

Let's see, free 1920 horizontal, or paying for 1280 horizontal, hmmm...

I'll believe SCARE is truly concerned about RF health effects when they shut down all Golden hot spots...

Lakehead University, Canada won't install WiFi until assured the EMF isn't a health risk (http://www.itbusiness.ca/it/client/en/home/News.asp?id=38093&PageMem=1)

Let's see, free 1920 horizontal, or paying for 1280 horizontal, hmmm...In Fort Collins, that's free 480 horizontal, or paying for 1280 horizontal.

Count me in plus 1 for the tenth.

Patrick

I would like to go on the HDnet tour. Put me down for 1. Thanks.

In Fort Collins, that's free 480 horizontal, or paying for 1280 horizontal.

Can't you receive the Cheyenne stations in Fort Collins, or are they just SD digital?

Plus, doesn't KDVR have a digital translator up there?

Anyone know if KDVR has been having problems? I used to receive them on DT-32 here in Fort Collins, now I have to use the channel DT-21 to pick them up. Something change?

I'm out in Henderson, NV tonight. Sitting here in my hotel looking right out the window and the Vegas TV towers are right outside. They must be 50 towers less than a 1/2 mile away, right outside and not a sCAREy person in sight.

On another subject, got a call for some assistance today. Can't talk about it publically just yet. (Sorry, to be a tease) I will be able to post it as soon as I get permission. It will require a tiny bit of help from everybody. But, I can say it will be one hell of a lot of fun!!!

Anyone know if KDVR has been having problems? I used to receive them on DT-32 here in Fort Collins, now I have to use the channel DT-21 to pick them up. Something change?

KDVR is looking great here.

And on a somewhat related note, my CM3044 distribution amp finally arrived yesterday.

I thought I had more coax in the garage than I did... so it turned out that didn't have enough cable to hook my TVs up to it properly.
But I really wanted to try it out, so I just temporarily spliced it in behind the ugly web of splitters and coax I've going on under my house. Surprisingly, it's working great. I gained 3 more bars on my tuner's meter. I can almost receive KMGH without any dropouts.

I need to go out and get about 100' of RG6 so I can re-wire everything and get this thing hooked up the way it's supposed to be. I'm going to run a cable straight from the 3044 to my HD tuner. And the rest of the TVs will go on the other jacks. This will allow me to get rid of all the splitters in my system. Hopefully, doing that will get me a just a little closer to a glitch free KMGH.

Now normally, I wouldn't have had to spend so much time and money (close to $230 now) on an antenna system. But for some strange reason, it's really hard to receive HDTV over the air in Colorado...

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=127160&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=820591&highlight=

DIRECTV Announces Next 24 Markets to Receive High-Definition Local Channels in Spring 2006; Local HD Markets Will Total 36, Representing More Than 58 Percent of U.S. Television Homes EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Feb. 22, 2006--Continuing to widely expand its local high-definition (HD) programming services, DIRECTV, Inc. (NYSE: DTV), the nation's leading digital television service provider, today named the next 24 U.S. markets that will receive local HD programming.

Beginning in April of this year, DIRECTV will roll out the first of the 24 new markets, offering HD programming from the four primary broadcast networks -- ABC, CBS, Fox and NBC. Customers with the appropriate DIRECTV HD receiving equipment, who subscribe to a programming package that includes local channels, will receive both the standard and HD signals at no extra monthly charge.

The 24 local markets to receive HD programming include:

Baltimore
Birmingham, Ala.
Charlotte, N.C.
Cleveland
Columbus, Ohio
Denver
Fresno, Calif.
Hartford, Conn.
Indianapolis
Kansas City, Mo./Kan.
Miami
Milwaukee, Wisc.
Minneapolis, Minn.
Nashville, Tenn.
Orlando, Fla.
Phoenix
Pittsburgh
Raleigh, N.C.
Sacramento, Calif.
Salt Lake City
San Diego
Seattle
St Louis, Mo.
West Palm Beach, Fla.

"The expansion of local HD programming is one of the cornerstones of our brand strategy to provide the best entertainment experience for DIRECTV's customers and sets us apart from our competition," said Dan Fawcett, executive vice president, DIRECTV, Inc. "With the rollout of 24 new local HD markets, we will offer access to DIRECTV-delivered local HD programming to 58 percent of U.S. television homes. We expect to expand our HD local coverage to even more markets later this year."

DIRECTV currently offers standard-definition local channels in 141 markets, covering nearly 94 percent of television households in the country, as well as 12 HD local channel markets, including Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Tampa and Washington, D.C. With the launch of two new satellites -- DIRECTV 10 and DIRECTV 11 -- in 2007, DIRECTV will have the ability to deliver more than 1,500 local HD and digital channels and 150 national HD channels, in addition to new advanced programming services for customers.

All DIRECTV local HD programming is being transmitted via MPEG-4 AVC, the new standard in digital video compression and advanced modulation that more than doubles the efficiency of DIRECTV's capacity.

Customers can receive local HD channels by purchasing the new H20 HD receiver and a satellite dish that has the ability to receive programming from five different orbital locations and Ka-band signals. Through Feb. 28, DIRECTV is offering new and existing customers a $200 mail-in rebate on the purchase of a DIRECTV HD Receiver. (Limit one rebate per account.) Receiving equipment is available at major consumer electronics retailers like Best Buy and Circuit City, and through DIRECTV.

About DIRECTV, Inc.

DIRECTV, Inc. is the nation's leading digital television service provider with more than 15 million customers. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. DIRECTV (NYSE: DTV) is a world-leading provider of digital multichannel television entertainment services. DIRECTV is approximately 34 percent owned by News Corporation.

CONTACT: DIRECTV, Inc.
Robert Mercer, 310-726-4683
rgmercer@directv.com

SOURCE: DIRECTV, Inc.

hi - i am new too this group, like all the info about hdtv anybody with evu can help me with dish 500- i am upgrading i just cant find 82 sat,, what should the skew and elevation be?? any help would be great -thanks james

Any information on KTVD channel 19 Denver OTA? I lost the signal yesterday and haven't been able to receive it since.
Too bad since I wanted to watch Everybody Hates Chris. I watched it on cable but the picture quality on cable is no match to the digital OTA. :(

hi - i am new too this group, like all the info about hdtv anybody with evu can help me with dish 500- i am upgrading i just cant find 82 sat,, what should the skew and elevation be?? any help would be great -thanks james

If you're trying to get 82 and 91 with a Dish500 type dish the skew is 69 and the elevation is 40. Then tweak from there. 82 isnt terribly strong on that size dish in these parts.

thanks Dan for the info- i will try it tomor

Can't you receive the Cheyenne stations in Fort Collins, or are they just SD digital?

Plus, doesn't KDVR have a digital translator up there?

Only one, CBS, KGWN. HD but know DD.

Well, I just spent 4 hours pulling new coax. Lots of fun...
I never expected it to take that long. Although, pulling the new cable up through the walls went better than I thought it would. I just hooked the new cable to the old one and used the old cable as a fish tape. Smooth as butter.

I had to get the cable at Ace Hardware. They charged me $30 for 100 feet of generic cable!
I couldn't believe it. I could have ordered 100 feet of Digicon from Solid Signal for that! Oh well.

I got one more bar on my meter by hooking the tuner directly to the distribution amp (Hey, I'll take whatever I can get here!). Still no KMGH though. BUT, my antenna moved in the wind the other day, so maybe if I move it back...

I will receive KMGH's signal if it's the last thing I do!

I will receive KMGH's signal if it's the last thing I do!
Reminds me of my efforts in 2002 to get KMGH's squirrel driven signal. I was successful at 11 miles from the station with considerable effort. Same deal now for you only further away. Good luck.

The KMGH move to RP indeed helped, but still doesn't excuse the pathetic OTA situtation in the larger Denver metro area.

If (no, when!) Ernie is successful in bringing straight facts to the Golden mayor and gets him to see how stupid their position has been, we should throw Ernie a party!

Only one, CBS, KGWN. HD but know DD.

Calling KGWN's signal HD is generous. It's so badly compressed because of the SD channel on 5.2 that you could probably get the same quality on your computer from a dial up internet connection. Okay, that's an exaggeration but not by much. The only way I could stand to watch Bronco games last season was if they were national and I could see them on my D* CBS West feed. The only Denver stations I can get up here OTA are 2 & 31.

Sorry to do this to everyone, but the folks at HDNet have contacted me and said that they have been informed that they may be doing 2 MLS games which would conflict with our tour dates and have their remote trucks on the road the original date of our tour.

I had told them that I would rather adjust the dates than miss seeing one of the trucks, so it looks like we are now re-scheduled for the 17'th with an alternate date of the 24'th. Before I again ask for a show of hands, does anyone know of any major schedule conflicts which might impact the new date?? I am hoping to avoid something where nearly everyone would want be involved (i.e. Jeffco court dates, Oscars etc.). Let me know if anyone is aware of any conflicts on either of those two nights and if we are OK, I will again ask for RSVP's for the 17'th.

Sorry about the change, but the folks at HDNet are trying their best to make sure we get the 'grand tour', and not the $0.50 tour.

Dang! My quilting group meets both of those nights! :)

BTW, what is MSL (I'm admittedly not the biggest professional sports fan in the world)?

Couldn't they boost the power a bit from RP? It could only help...

Couldn't they boost the power a bit from RP? It could only help...Nope. They are at the max they can be for the time being. And that time is most likely 2009.

.............
BTW, what is MSL (I'm admittedly not the biggest professional sports fan in the world)?
Not my sport either .....probably the reason I wrote MSL instead of MLS..my bad..., but as advertised on the hd.net sports page
Exclusive high-definition coverage of Major League Soccer - including the MLS Cup Playoffs

I will correct my post....sorry 'bout that. :o

What happened down at Republic Plaza tonight? All channels other than 9 crashed between 10 and 11 pm. I was watching Austin City Limits at the time (which is just about my favorite HD program). And, while I am not a big Sheryl Crow fan, she was looking mighty hot during that second set...

Also, while I'm 'logged-in' and asking questions -- didn't channel 4 provide digital program information OTA as recently as football season? What happened to that -- I haven't seen info broadcast in a while now?

What happened down at Republic Plaza tonight? All channels other than 9 crashed between 10 and 11 pm.
[...]
Also, while I'm 'logged-in' and asking questions -- didn't channel 4 provide digital program information OTA as recently as football season? What happened to that -- I haven't seen info broadcast in a while now?

Not sure what happened at RP, but I did notice that my signal strength for channel 9 really went up when the other stations went off the air. I've got a signal level of 88 (normal is about 73)! My strongest channel, channel 2, only comes in at 83 for me.

As for the epg data for channel 4, I know for a little while they were just sending "DTV Program", but I'm getting actual program information from them now (before they went off the air tonight). I don't keep historical program information in my database, so I can't check to see when that changed. The only channels that are sending "DTV Program" for me now are 6 and 20 (before it went off the air a few days ago).

With any luck, maybe channel 20 needed to work on their transmitter to get it working again and had to shut down the others while performing the work. They may have just left 9 on because of the olympics. Purely speculation on my part, but who knows, I could be right! We'll just have to wait and see if 20 comes back up with the others.

B.J.

JM - actually I've never watched MLS. I had forgotten there even was one until your last post. Something about short skinny guys with fancy haircuts running around playing a non-contact sport; boring! (IMOHO of course). BTW, I wasn't poking fun at "MSL", but to me that meant Mean Sea Level. Couldn't think of anything else with that in my head, reminded me to much of work <shudder>. ;)

JM - ............Something about short skinny guys with fancy haircuts running around playing a non-contact sport; boring! (IMOHO of course). ..............<shudder>. ;)
You have been working too hard, must be another one of those great new UAL fringe benefits. :mad:

Why do I think though if it was "short skinny GIRLS with fancy haircuts running around playing a non-contact sport" you might be watching.
:D
Not sure if I would though, soccer of any for me is pretty much used only to fight insomnia.


FWIW it doesn't seem like there are any major conflicts with the 17'th. I will give it another day or so and then start a new head count.

I was watching Austin City Limits at the time (which is just about my favorite HD program). And, while I am not a big Sheryl Crow fan, she was looking mighty hot during that second set...
AFAIK, Austin City Limits on PBS is SD widescreen and not HD. Some of their widescreen shows can look pretty good, just not HD good.

Per Rocky Mountain News, the Gannett deal to buy KTVD is still on (source (http://www.rockymountainnews.com/drmn/spotlight_columnists/article/0,2777,DRMN_23962_4498635,00.html))

UPN 20 is scheduled to carry 24 Rockies games this year including Opening Day on April 3rd. I wonder what the chances are for HD broadcasts? FSN Rocky Mtn. will carry the remaining games and I don't hold out much hope for HD from them.

http://colorado.rockies.mlb.com/NASApp/mlb/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20060215&content_id=1312332&vkey=pr_col&fext=.jsp&c_id=col

It's been a week now and no response to my concern about receiving DTV in Larimer county from Musgrave, Allard, or Salazar's offices. I'll keep the group up to date if I get any responses in the future.

UPN 20 is scheduled to carry 24 Rockies games this year including Opening Day on April 3rd. I wonder what the chances are for HD broadcasts? Not too high, I would guess. I just don't see them making any significant investments before the Gannett deal goes through.

Maybe they will have their DTV signal back on the air by then?

I have found something I haven't seen discussed here. A law was passed in 2003 that appears to make what Golden is doing illegal. It may also have a big bearing on what is happening with the LCG tower - by guaranteeing that the county can not prevent the change over of existing towers.

SENATE BILL 03-251 (Signed into law 06/06/2003)

CONCERNING A PROHIBITION ON THE USE BY LOCAL GOVERNMENTS OF
AMORTIZATION TO ELIMINATE NONCONFORMING USES OF PROPERTY.

I read it to say that local governments can not use licensing or zoning rules to push out exitsting businesses. (Same interpretation that todays Longmont Times Call paper uses for another business issue).

Is this usefull? Who should we inform? The Judge? LCG Lawyers?

Ernie, does this help in your meeting w/ the Mayor?

# Matt

Did anyone get cut outs last night on 24? The very last 4 minutes were the only part of the show that I had issues with. The rest was rock solid (signal strength was 71). I am receiving the signal via multi-path though (damn north table mtn!). :)

No problems in SE Denver.

Did anyone get cut outs last night on 24? The very last 4 minutes were the only part of the show that I had issues with. The rest was rock solid (signal strength was 71). I am receiving the signal via multi-path though (damn north table mtn!). :)
No problems for me in Brighton with 24.

No Problems in Longmont, It looked good.