Long time no postie...

(I'm in grad school so I have zero time during the semester)

Happened to be browsing the Comcast guide this weekend and they had up a test channel on the HD channel range. Fingers crossed that PBS-HD or FOX-HD might be coming up soon...

(btw...the #1 reason I switched to Comcast (besides the nearly free 6412) was for HD Giants games, but today's season opener isn't yet on the guide..?)

Cheers,

Brian

FOX Sports HD list the Warriors, A's and Giants on Comcast Channel 920 for the valley. Yet no Warrior's games were on this year. I called Comcast and got no answer as to why.


FSBA (http://www.fsnbayarea.com/)

Last year the A's and Giants's were on 920. I'll take a wait and see position to see if we get HD Baseball this year. I also found it interesting that the list show about 60 Giants games and only 40 A's (A's fan here).

And thanks Guy's for the info on PBS-HD. It's been a while since I did a rescan looking for new digitals, and as everyone else says it looks great. Looking forward to some HD Concerts.

Comcast is probably not showing Warriors games because of the Kings. Kings games in HD on Comcast's own channel are available.

Originally posted by DrewM
FOX Sports HD list the Warriors, A's and Giants on Comcast Channel 920 for the valley. Yet no Warrior's games were on this year. I called Comcast and got no answer as to why.

Last year the A's and Giants's were on 920. I'll take a wait and see position to see if we get HD Baseball this year. I also found it interesting that the list show about 60 Giants games and only 40 A's (A's fan here).David is right that the lack of Warriors HD is due to the Kings games being on in HD.

The discrepancy between Giants and A's broadcasts is, I imagine, twofold. First, the Giants far outdraw the A's and I'm sure that's a consideration in the overall number of broadcasts. More particularly though, is the fact that I bet FSBA has one set of HD equipment for games atm, and on days when both the Giants and A's are home they have to choose one to show - and they'll take the better draw.

But I'm pretty darn disappointed friggin' OPENING DAY is not on in HD here...

Brian

Just turned on Comcast, PBS HD is now active on Channel 908. No guide information yet, "To Be Announced" is all it says.

That's great! Looks like they're reordering the channels as well, as all the local digitals are now double listed...

Now if I could just get some Giants HD... <wink>

[edit] YIPPEE! The Giants game IS in HD tonite on channel 920, just not listed in the guide... (it shows regular INHD programming)

Brian

Originally posted by tbwill
Just turned on Comcast, PBS HD is now active on Channel 908. No guide information yet, "To Be Announced" is all it says.

Just noticed this myself!

So add PBS to the list for Fresno HD--thanks Comcast :)

ironically it was my TiVo and not my Comcast DVR that notified me that the channel had been added.

Receiving local channels in HD via OTA. I run the signal directly into my Dish 921 DVR receiver. At present, I am not getting any PSIP data.

Can anybody tell me if this is an issue with the 921 or is the PSIP data just not available yet? I believe I have seen some programming information on a friends Sony Vega HD. The OTA goes directly into the TV by passing the Dish (older model 300) receiver.

Getting frustrated by not being able to get electronic programming data.

I have no experience with Dish receivers, but with DirecTV models one must go into the box setup menu and enter the zip code and then select whether or not you want locals added to the guide. PSIP is working in Fresno for almost all the digital channels now. I get guide data for everything except the new PBS HD feed at 40.2.

When you sign up for locals on Dish (new customer, or old), the ANALOG locals are downloaded into your receiver. No local HD channels (not yet, anyway).
But the receiver 811 or 921, will accept digital or analog OTA signals and add them to your program list.
Hopefully the next satellite launch will rectify that situation.

nevermind.

Is anyone aware if HD test patterns are provided by the locals? What time these come on, and if they are any 'good' as related to ISF standards.

Anyone having problems with 26-1? Mine has not worked yesterday or today. I even tried rescanning. It just says searching for signal.

26-1 went off the air last night. As of this post they are still off the air.

Originally posted by Steve S
I have no experience with Dish receivers, but with DirecTV models one must go into the box setup menu and enter the zip code and then select whether or not you want locals added to the guide. PSIP is working in Fresno for almost all the digital channels now. I get guide data for everything except the new PBS HD feed at 40.2.

Programming OTA HD locals into your 811 could be a very frustrating experience. Not all the channels that are scanned by the receiver will be saved. I was tipped off to this by a Dish tech when I called about another problem, which he resolved.
BTW, he said many problems can be resolved by simply holding the power button for a good 5 seconds, to power reset. You will have to wait while it downloads everything again afterwards. Unfortunately, this does not resolve the Local HD problem.
I am back to using the tuner in my display for local HDs, which at first glance appears to offer better PQ anyway.

26-1 came back on around 8 on Friday

I am seeing OTA signals from KNXT (it remaps to 1-1 on my Samsung SIR-T451 ???), 61-1 and 61-2, and 26-1 from Fresno in far south Bakersfield, close to Pumpkin Center. Antenna is a pair of stacked 6 element Yagi's in the attic with 25db amp.

Maybe KNXT will air white smoke in HD? ;)

Originally posted by Mr.Poindexter
Maybe KNXT will air white smoke in HD? ;)

Just hope it isn't 3D!

Hey, I would love some HD 3D 720p60 in frame sequential format!

What's with KFSN-DT OTA? I'm watching the playoff game, and the picture is way off. The bars that should be on the side of the picture are right in the middle.

I saw that when trying to watch the news yesterday morning. The 4/3 pic was split in half with bars in the middle instead of on the sides, and the left half of the picture was on the right side of the screen and vice-versa!

Is it just me or is 26-1 having some serious problems the last couple days? Off wed and last night....

Originally posted by snatch
Is it just me or is 26-1 having some serious problems the last couple days? Off wed and last night....

Same here.

Originally posted by snatch
Is it just me or is 26-1 having some serious problems the last couple days? Off wed and last night....

For some reason, their 26-1 mask isn't working. They're on 28-1.

I am showing a strong signal on 28.1 but no picture. Any news from KMPH?

Originally posted by jshowers
I am showing a strong signal on 28.1 but no picture. Any news from KMPH?

I'm picking up the aaron's 312 nascar race right now in Kingsburg.

I can recieve it on my Unity Motion receiver but not on my LG-3410a.
The LG shows strong signal on 28-1 but no picture. Good old Unity Motion
first generation digital receiver always works no matter what the stations due. I hope KMPH fixes it soon so I can record with the LG again.

Not getting anything on 26-1 or 28-1 using a Sylvania SRZ3000 DTV Receiver.

But I'm able to watch KMPH-DT using my Sasem OnAir USB HDTV tuner on 26-1.

Oh, and KNXT-DT also remaps to 1-1 using the Sasem.

I suppose that doesn't beat losing 39 channels of HD. My Voom service just ended. On a bright note, the OTA reception still works.

Not that into NASCAR, but I guess if you are that would be a major bummer.

I have 3-4 months until I move up to Clovis. Does Comcast have anything new in HD that would make me not want to sign up for a year committment anywhere?

I'm getting strong signal on 26.1--when I tune to it the screen goes black and there's a "no signal" message at the bottom, but if I press the signal strength meter button on the remote the meter reads strong, channel 28, which is the actual broadcast frequency. I'm pissed mightily.

My receiver is an LG mfg. Sony HD-200.


Anyone in Fresno with an LG built box able to tune 26 or 59?

Still not receiving KMPH-DT thru a Sylvania DTV tuner or my Samsung STB, despite doing a rescan of channels on both boxes.

Weird I can recieve KMPH-DT thru a Sasem Onair Tuner..."24" in HD is looking great. Should I just get rid of those STBs?

Any Fresno/Clovis Dishers out there? I am getting the 61.5 dish installed on Th to pick up the extra HD Voom channels.
I don't have a problem with the extra 5 bucks a month, but the extra dish will cost 100. (yes, a steal compared with buying all the hardware myself and installing it, etc.)
Apparently, the only way you get it free is if you need it to receive local channels. You would think it would be free for any channels you have to pay for. I am a legacy customer. Just curiuos if some of you in the area got different deals or different information. Not sure what's worse, no policy, or an inconsistent one.

I'm getting KMPH and KFRE dt again this afternoon. KMPH is breaking up badly though, as if they have an encoder problem. Signal strength is strong and steady so I don't think the problem is at my end. They've had encoder problems before they went HD, sometimes for weeks at a time.

KMPH and KFRE are now working again on my LG LST-3410a. I guess they
have fixed the problem.

My 2 cents on 26-1. For 24 on Monday no picture. Last night for House M.D. there was a picture but it was choppy so I switched to SD. I hope it is better for the O.C on Thursday.

PQ for American Idol in HD is usually exemplary. Not as fun as watching the NBA but I have to make concessions now and then :/ ...last night it had be about the worst looking SD I've seen, and HD was breaking up like crazy. We watched L&O instead of House.
Hopefully, 26.1 is back on track!

Last night American Idol started off goofy. No HD...and traces of lip-synch problems for the first 6 minutes....then HD snapped on and back into video AND audio splendor!!!

KMPH now ok. Both KMPH and KFRE had wildly too loud and distorted sound via digital connection to my receiver with DD turned on on the STB prior to the outage, now ok.

I watched a little NASCAR on 26 and it wasn't HD. Wasn't it supposed to be?

Originally posted by Mr.Poindexter
I watched a little NASCAR on 26 and it wasn't HD. Wasn't it supposed to be?

It wasn't when it was first on. I stopped watching. I turned it on just to catch the last few minutes of the broadcast and it was in HD.

Nanny 911 not in HD although it started out HD (I think). Hoping 24 comes through. Also a couple of minutes of audio silence.

mgh

.
Weird!?!

24 is not widescreen but off to the right off the frame, the FOX bug is partially visible at the bottom.

mgh

Anybody else watching the Giants / Astros in HD on FSNBA right now (920)?

All the transport controls are locked out while watching on this channel.

Other channels (including HD) work fine, I even went ahead and recorded it, but the transport controls still don't work.

Just my box?

Brian

Originally posted by stickyfingers
Anybody else watching the Giants / Astros in HD on FSNBA right now (920)?

All the transport controls are locked out while watching on this channel.

Other channels (including HD) work fine, I even went ahead and recorded it, but the transport controls still don't work.

Just my box?

Brian

At least the game was actually HD. The Yankees/A's game is 4:3 inside the 16:9 window.

Doh!!! :mad:

At least it wasn't letterboxed insde the 4:3 frame! That just adds salt to the wound when that happens.

It's fixed now... whew!

HD Yankees @ A's on 920

Anybody else having trouble with KMPH esp. during their primetime programming?

I'm getting a strong signal, but it was completely breaking up so much during "24" last nite that I had to switch to viewing a fuzzy analog picture.

Any more word when some locals like 47, will pumping out more 5.1 audio?

Originally posted by mad62
Anybody else having trouble with KMPH esp. during their primetime programming?

I'm getting a strong signal, but it was completely breaking up so much during "24" last nite that I had to switch to viewing a fuzzy analog picture.

Man I am so glad someone else is having this problem. I was about ready to go out and buy a new HDTV tuner. I've got anywhere from 3-5 bars on my SIR-T151 and it's been breaking up really bad the past week or so. None of the other channels are doing this.

American Idol became unwatchable in HD. House is looking much better, and with 5.1.

KMPH has had lots of encoder problems in the past. It was unwatchable for weeks at a time prior to their going HD, back when they were digital but only 480i.

In the 50's when a station had problems (which was not all that infrequent) they'd put up a "technical difficulties, do not adjust your set" card. I wish they could do that now with the digital feeds as I too always wonder if it's my equipment or the station when all these glitches occur.

Originally posted by Steve S


I wish they could do that now with the digital feeds as I too always wonder if it's my equipment or the station when all these glitches occur.

Same here, especially with regards to my Silver Sensor indoor antenna. But when I receive the other local HD's without moving it, I know KMPH has got problems.
The only other one I sometimes have problems with is KSEE. It is generally stable once locked-in, but the signal strength seems to vary more.
And KGPE has something against broadcasting 5.1.

KFSN (30.1) has been 100% 5.1 since spring of '01, but only in the last year or so have they been able to do so without frequent audio dropouts and audio synch problems. I had a station engineer once note that doing 5.1 is very difficult for the encoding and when it screws up it can also ruin picture reception. KFSN seems to have handled it well of late, but KTLA in LA still has the occasional audio glitch.

None of the other locals are doing 5.1 at all, probably can't afford the equipment or are leary of the complexity.

Originally posted by Steve S
KFSN (30.1) has been 100% 5.1 since spring of '01, but only in the last year or so have they been able to do so without frequent audio dropouts and audio synch problems. I had a station engineer once note that doing 5.1 is very difficult for the encoding and when it screws up it can also ruin picture reception. KFSN seems to have handled it well of late, but KTLA in LA still has the occasional audio glitch.

None of the other locals are doing 5.1 at all, probably can't afford the equipment or are leary of the complexity.

I was sure KMPH was doing it regularly on some programming (not any worse than their video has been recently), and even KSEE. I will have to pay closer attention next time.
It would sure add more impact to CSI, I usually resort to PLII for some semblance of surround.

My bad, KMPH for sure does do 5.1, don't recall seeing any on KSEE but don't watch that channel often enough to know if they do or not.

I've also had halfway decent results with PLIIx or Logic 7 Cinema for some 2 channel shows, depends on whether the 2 channel has Pro Logic encoding or not. My receiver detects whether or not there's pro logic decoding on 2 channel sources and those that have it definitely get better surround in the PLIIx and Logic 7 Cinema modes than those without.

Star Wars EPII just came on and it's already breaking up. How very annoying :mad:

Star Wars EPII just came on and it's already breaking up. How very annoying :mad:

Same here!!!

We need to all email or phone KMPH cuz I'm not watching the Season Finales of "24" or "House" in SD. :mad:

I e-mailed KMPH last week at: "viewercomments@kmph.com" I received a very nice reply and an explanation. I would post the e-mail but their was a legal cannot disclose warning attached. I would urge all KMPH listeners to express their concerns. I live in Bakersfield and put up an antenna specifically for KMPH and last February's superbowl. Hopefully the issue can be resolved soon.

Is KMPH working for anyone? Can't get it to work on my Sylvania SRZ3000 DTV tuner, but its coming up using a Sasem Onair USB HDTV device (much like the last time KMPH was "off the air".)

Was it just me, or did a some of the locals have an agreement not to do digital last night?
I totally lost 47.1, 26.1, and 24.1. I received analogs fine. I am using an indoor ant. but losing 3 at the same time was most unusual. KMPH was the least surprise....

KMPH-DT is still breaking up quite a bit. This nascar race is barely watchable. I sent them an email but didn't get a response. Typical :mad:

KMPH use to be very stable but now it is like you said almost unwatchable with all the breakups. Signal quality is very good. I wonder what the problem is.

Hello everyone! This my first post in this thread. What would you guys say is the best HD channel you receive and see the most difference on. I have to say is KVPT 40-2. PBS's True HD channel looks great. I don't watch PBS very often but I have to say sometimes the picture just pulls me in no matter what the programming is. Anyways, I think KFRE and UPN need to get in gear and start broadcasting in something better than 480i. UPN's sound is awful!

I haven't been able to get KVPT 40.1 or 40.2 over the air since last Thursday or Friday, anyone else?

PBS is has got their P-SIP(?) working they are now mapped to 18-1 & 18-2.

Whats up with KMPH I wanted to watch NASCAR yesterday and found out that their HD was down.

Hey all. Been watching this thread for a while. Anyone have word on Comcast's latest plans to go digital with their analog channels? Any word on Fox? I know patience is a virtue but I guess I'm all out...

Thanks Drew, found 18.1 and 18.2 this morning. oddly the program info is still on 40.1 and 40.2, the remapped listing just shows "regular programming" so I guess they didn't really master the psip after all.

I recorded sounstage in HD on my LSt-3410a and it was perfect. Any word when kvpt might add 5.1 sound? KMPH appears to be stable again for me I recorded The Inside with no problems. Now that nascar is over on fox they got there signal stable.

Anybody else here still experiencing trouble with the KMPH digital signal?

Using my Sylvania SRZ3000 STB, I'm getting a 95% signal, but it's often breaking up during the FOX network programming, resulting in out of sync A/V or the STB locking up.

It is only KMPH I am having difficulties with.

I just got an email from George Hillis, Program/Operations Manager at KSEE24.

KSEE-DT will be off the air while changes/upgrades are performed. Changes are due to take place starting Aug. 23 and take 10-14 days. The Comcast feed will be unaffected.

KSEE-DT will return to the air on digital channel 38.

I am glad I can receive the Bakersfield NBC station. I hope KSEE is also going to add 5.1
sound when doing there upgrade.

I'm glad NBC doesn't have anything worth watching.

Any word as to when KMPH-DT will be available on Comcast? Wasn't it promised months ago?

Any word as to when KMPH-DT will be available on Comcast? Wasn't it promised months ago? I thought they told us :rolleyes: we would be getting hdtv coverage a couple of months after the superbowl had ended?

Which Superbowl? ;)

New to the HDTV wave and looking for info on OTA HDTV, just bought a new Sony HDTV with the built in tuner and mounted a DB8 antenna from Antennas Direct with a rotator on the roof and man HDTV is just awesome, i've been watching stations from Bakersfield and Fresno, 18.1,23.1,24.1,26.47.1 and a few others but no Channel 30??? can anybody tell me what is exactly out there that I might be missing? or changes.
Thanks John

Sony KDP57WS655
PIONEER Elite VSX-47TX
DENON DVD 2910
JBL S38 Mains
JBL Scenter
JBL S26 Surrounds
JBL S26 Rears
SVS 20-39 PC+ Sub
DIRECTV

John I live in Exeter and get the following digital stations.
From Fresno area:
KNSO 5-1 Telwmundo
KAIL 7-1 UPN
KFSN 9-1 ABC
KSEE NBC is down now , it is switching from 16-1 to 38-1
KFTV 20-1 Univision
KMPH 28-1 FOX
KGPE 34-1 CBS
KFRE 36-1 WB
KVPT 40-1 PBS 40-2 HD channel
KTFF 48-1,48-2 Univision and Worship
KNXT 50-1 Religous
Bakersfield Stations
KERO 10-1 ABC
KGET 25-1 NBC
KBAK 33-1 CBS
KPVI 55-1 UPN
You will need a vhf antenna to recieve ABC Fresno and Bakersfield , UPN Fresno and
Telemondo Fresno. WB Fresno,you will need a pre amp it is weak in our area.
With the proper antenna setup you can recieve many digtial stations in our area. You will also need a rotor to recieve all the stations.

Thomas thanks for the info, looks like I need a VHF antenna to pick up ABC Fresno but have been picking up ABC Bakersfield on 23.1 channel 1.1 and channel 8 come in but thats it for the lower channels. yeah found out the hard way but a Rotator is a must out here the way everything is spread out. I'm really loving this HDTV, PBS 18.2 is awesome as are the rest. again Thanks.
John :D

WB is weak. Those suckers will never give us HD.

I have a Fusion5 Gold HDTV tuner for my PC, but I am having trouble locating the local (unencrypted) channels on Comcast. According to the software, NBC is on channel 11 and CBS is on channel 12. These are the only two stations I have been able to locate so far. Does anyone else here in Fresno know the channel listing for the digital channels without a cable box? I used to be able to get all the digital locals on Comcast a few months ago (except KMPH of course). But now, the channel numbers seem to be all switched around. I e-mailed Comcast, but never received a reply. Anyone have more info? Thanks!

Justin

IIRC, ABC and PBS are subchannels on 109.

CBS and NBC are subchannels on 80, or somewhere in the eighties.

David

I would also like the same information. I used to be able to get ABC & CBS and the other HD channels without a converter. Also got PBS for a day it was in the 109- range.

But now I only can get CBS its 1-2.

I've scanned many a time looking to see if they came back but they didn't. However 104-9 & 104-10 (if my memory is right) scan in they are the PPV "what's on channel".

I thought they were supposed to provide digital broadcast channels also, but no one at Comcast knew anything about it would I called months ago, so I ended up getting a converter box. Oh Well.

Yes, this is very strange. On previous version of the software, I remember getting those two stations on subchannels of 80, but now they are designated simply as 11 and 12??

I wonder what channel 109 translates to within this Fusion software...?

KSEE-DT is back on the air at channel 38. Signal is very strong here in Exeter about 60 miles from the transmitter. NBC weather network is now being broadcated on 24-2.

Does anyone know why KMPH is not broadcasting the NFL in HD today?

Ditto, they are advertising HD on the 49er Rams game and my TV says 720p / 16x9 but this isn't HD :mad: :mad: :mad:

Okay we're running HD now :) , somebody must be asleep at the wheel over at 26 :rolleyes:

KMPH did not bradcast the Vikings -Tampa game in HD and part of the 49er's game. I hope this is not going to be a weekly thing. I tried to call them but nobody was manning the switch board. I guess on Sunday they run a small crew.

So is there any word on when Comcast will get KMPH-DT? Am I the only one desiring this? I can't get a good reception with OTA KMPH-DT no matter how hard I try. :(

When watching NFL on FOX OTA HDTV the signal seems to break up a lot, can't get a really good steady signal, I have a DB8 antenna with a Channel Master rotator on a 15 Ft pole on my roof, according to Antenna Web.org the compass reading for 26.1 is 357Deg. which I select and have gone up to 360 and as low as 340 with the same results, channels 47.1 and 24.1 come in steady all the time, I live in Porterville, anybody else experiencing this with 26.1
John :confused:

I live in Exeter and it breaks up for me when they switch to a commercial break. Then it gets ok for the game.

Yeah here too! what's up with that??? well at least now I know it's not a problem with my components. Thanks.
John

So is there any word on when Comcast will get KMPH-DT? Am I the only one desiring this? I can't get a good reception with OTA KMPH-DT no matter how hard I try. :(

You're not the only one! I'm a newbie to HD as of Saturday but was almost crying when I had to watch the Niner game on channel 6 and not in HD. I have emailed both Comcast and KMPH for more info, but am leery of spending the extra $ to buy a HD tuner and OTA antenna since my TV doesn't have a tuner....so I'm in the same boat as you :D:D

I have a solution to your problem.


Become a RAIDER fan and then you can watch your games in HD :D

FWIW I do have an integrated tuner, yet I don't watch very much FOX in HD. I just can't get myself to root for the 49'ers.

:rolleyes: :D :D :D
'Just Win Baby' :mad:

You're not the only one! I'm a newbie to HD as of Saturday but was almost crying when I had to watch the Niner game on channel 6 and not in HD. I have emailed both Comcast and KMPH for more info, but am leery of spending the extra $ to buy a HD tuner and OTA antenna since my TV doesn't have a tuner....so I'm in the same boat as you :D:D

Can't wait to hear their explanation on this matter. :rolleyes: I'm waiting for fox/comcast to provide hd coverage as well.

Channel 6 blows pretty hard right now. Almost unwatchable.
And to think just around the corner fox will be broadcasting the MLB Playoffs in HD and we'll be stuck watching channel 6. Uggghhhhh. :mad:

Be interested to know if anyone has switched from satellite to comcast for HDTV.
I am presently waiting for Dish to come up with their latest (mpeg4) before leasing a PVR.
How well does the PVR work on Comcast? And is SD/HD picture quality close to Dish?
We are moving to Sanger in Jan 06, new home prewired. Strongly considering forgetting Dish and OTA for local HD (until they finally launch a satellite) and going with Comcast digital cable/HDTV/PVR.

Has anyone noticed a new bug located on the upper right hand corner of the screen for both NBC and CBS?? It says E/I. Very distracting and annoying. What does it stand for? This is the first time I've noticed it (Saturday, October 1st). I sure hope it is temporary!

I have seen this before and I think its only on Saturday Children shows and I'm guessing its to let us parents know that its Educational, not just the normal cartoonish fair. What was the show?

DiCecco said:
You will need a vhf antenna to recieve ABC Fresno and Bakersfield , UPN Fresno and
Telemondo Fresno. WB Fresno,you will need a pre amp it is weak in our area.
With the proper antenna setup you can recieve many digtial stations in our area. You will also need a rotor to recieve all the stations.

I kind of see why I am not getting these channels now. So I have the Terk HDTVi, is there any hope for me. I have the Dvico fusion 3 something something and that antenna and I get nbc,fox,pbs, and cbs well, but what should I do to pick up the rest.

Personally, I think a Silver Sensor is a better start than a Terk, but neither one will replace a good outside antenna..

Now, is anyone on this thread signed up with Comcast Digital, with a PVR, and can you tell me about your likes or dislikes. Thanks, always.

will a inside amp work like a outside pre-amp and what is the difference

Hey all - just picked up my first HDTV yesterday. I'm currently using an indoor antenna but planning to switch to DishHD soon.

Question - this morning (sunday am) i'm not getting many channels at all (only 30.1). Does this mean there is no content? My set shows a decent signal on some channels, but content.

Thanks!

Nevermind - figured out my set was set to "cable" not "ant". Fox showed up right away...

OH-MY-GOD - this loook awesome.

What's up with the fox audio on 5.1? 47 seems fine, fox is super low and very inconsistent. I thought it might be the output of my set, but 47 has been fine.

anyone else notice this?

Hey all - just picked up my first HDTVyesterday.
Hey Dogsfan, what television did you buy? I'm using a Phillips 34pw8402 that we got from Costco. Love it. Although i wish it were a larger screen size.

I got the Philips 30PW9110D from walmart. So far i love it. I read a few negative comments on another thread about SD content, but haven't had much chance to use it for my Dish yet.

I'm going to do some side-by-side with my previous set to compare my standard Dish feed.

the HD content is amazing though.

I would LOVE a larger set, but this is the biggest that will fit in my cabinet without going plasma/lcd, and the finance department won't approve that purchase ;-)

Is it just me or is CBS not showing the games in HD, using a OTA antenna for HD viewing and the last two weeks both games were in SD. Fox games are in HD as well as ABC and NBC :mad: :mad: :mad:

I am having trouble getting quite a few stations. The only ones I get are CBS 47, Fox 26, NBC 24 and PBS. I am using the Terk HDTVi indoor antenna. Anyone have any hints? I would like to have UPN, WB and ABC. I know you can get some of these outdoor antennas for pretty cheap now like the TV55 but didn't know if it would make that much of a difference because some of these stations are listed at the same spot as the channels I get fine by antennaweb, so I am guessing it is something else.

Get a real antenna for outdoors. Sparky's on Blacktone has quite a selection.

Anyone else having problems with 30.1 the last coupla days?? Lost broke up intermittently Wed. night and by this morning (Friday) it was totally unwatchable. I'm getting it OTA via a HDTivo box, and it's been rock solid before this latest problem. All my other local digitals are fine, even those that show considerably lower signal strength than KFSN-DT.

to me it seems like 26-1 is having a better picture the last few weeks. The 49ers games, House and OC look much better. I wonder if they did any upgrades.
Also anyone find a WB or UPN HD in Fresno?

I don't know if I just noticed this or if it changed, but I see FOX coming in at 5.1 now. Has this been a new thing or am I crazy? I still notice all the other channels at 2 channel still. When is this going to be upgraded?

KFSN and KMPH are passing 5.1 audio when present.

KMPH started it at the same time they became HD capable.

If only KGPE would upgrade their equipment. (I watch many CBS shows.)

When you watch MNF do you get anything out of the rear channels? My amp shows DD 5.1 but nothing out the rears. Works just fine on the INHD DD 5.1 programs.

KFSN and KMPH are passing 5.1 audio when present.

Ahh, that makes sense, I don't get KFSN yet, I am getting a better antenna.

If any of you have D*, you can get ABCW HD in Fresno. It's been mentioned on this thread previously, but our local HD is owned and operated by ABC. All you have to do is call and get a waiver from D*. Might take 3 weeks or so, but you'll get it.

I get all of the digital stations pretty well except 30-1, one phone call and 3 weeks later I have no reception issues at all. :D

KMPH has been flawless for about a week now, the constant glitching is gone! I fought for months and finally got ABCW from DirecTV but they shut it off a coupla months ago, and I don't know why. I'm so PO'd at D anyway, only one new HD channel in the last year and it was another damn ESPN instead of TNT, STARZ, Cinemax HD, etc.

I talked to an engineer at KFREDT WB inquiring about when they are upgrading to be able to pass through the HD shows. He said they are planning to update their equipment in the 1st quarter of '06 and if they don't make that time, then the 2nd quarter. This is really good news.

awesome, that is great news. So by 4th quarter it might actually be working right.

Hey...did anyone else lose 26.1 during the 49ers game? I still get analog, but the digital signal isn't there!?! Football in SD blows...

Does anyone hear watch MNF using their amps? If so do you get any sound out of the rear channel when your using DD 5.1? I called up ABC and asked them about this because crowd noise should be hear in the rear channel. I don't watch too many other ABC shows and I don't always use my amp so I don't know if its this way with all of there programming.

The engineer said he would hook up a 5.1 system and check this out.

And yes when I watch other DD 5.1 such as INHD I do get sound out of the rear channel.

Hi. I'm from up the SF Bay Area, and just got a new Sony KDF-E42A10 for my mom in Fresno. I'm down here setting it up for her, and am trying to configure in the HDTV channels on Comcast Cable, since the set has a QAM tuner in it, and she doesn't want to deal with a STB. I have found ABC, CBS and PBS (and a few random others) that are being transmitted, but can't find Fox (KMPH) and NBC. Does anyone know what frequencies Comcast transmits these channels in Fresno?

Thanks,
Mike

Try 80.1 and 80.2 for NBC and CBS. The others of interest are 109.1 and 109.3, ABC and PBS, respectively.

Comcast doesn't carry the HD version of KMPH.

Does anyone hear watch MNF using their amps? If so do you get any sound out of the rear channel when your using DD 5.1? I called up ABC and asked them about this because crowd noise should be hear in the rear channel. I don't watch too many other ABC shows and I don't always use my amp so I don't know if its this way with all of there programming.

The engineer said he would hook up a 5.1 system and check this out.

And yes when I watch other DD 5.1 such as INHD I do get sound out of the rear channel.

I've noticed the same, but was too lazy to do anything about it! My amp clearly indicates that I am receiving a 5.1 signal though. I'd be curious to hear what the engineer you spoke to says about it....

I left message with the engineer Ron after the last MNF with no rear audio, he didn't call me back. However the last two bowl games had rear audio, so maybe they fixed it.

That was the reason I called with the Rose Bowl coming up and me having guest come over I wanted to have good sound, along with good picutre. We'll need to wait for ABC's playoff game to know for sure if they fixed it.

FWIW though no more NFL football on ABC and ESPN and NBC don't do 5.1. :(

Hello all I just got a new HDTV Samsung Slimfit and I am having a hard time picking up any HD stations. I am planning on installing an outdoor atenna but I am not sure which outdoor antenna to get and which direction to face it. I have checked antennaweb but I am still a little confused. Do antennas come with a compass and do I have to get up there and move it around all the time? Does the antenna pick up signals from all directions? Thanks for any help! I live just west of the 99 freeway near Central High.

The antenna that works well for me you can get at Sparky's on Blackstone. They are rectangle wire mesh with (2 or 4) bowtie elements. Face the bowties towards the east. You may have to move it a little north or south from there but once its set it in place "forget about it".

Will that atenna get all stations (UHF/VHF) OTA? Will a 5 ft pole be enough to get OTA stations?

Will that atenna get all stations (UHF/VHF) OTA? Will a 5 ft pole be enough to get OTA stations?


Not sure why you want UHF, but I do know that the antenna at Sparky's will get all the OTA local digital stations. When You say a 5 ft pole I would assume you meen once on your roof top. If nothing is blocking your view to the East 5' will be fine.

Not sure why you want UHF....

Because most digital channels are on UHF?


Here in East Clovis I'm getting KAIL, KSEE, KGPE, KMPH, KTVH, KFSN, & KVPT with two
indoor antennae (Silver Sensor) aimed in opposite directions, using a splitter between them.
Never have to adjust them. True, I have a virtually unobstructed view of most tranmitters (less than 25 miles), most are within a few degrees of each other, except for KMPH.

www.antennaweb.org

Most useful site, but always try experimenting with at least one indoor antenna first.
If I followed their advice, I would have a medium multidirectional antenna erected on a 20+' foot pole outside.

any help would be great guys

I have tried any number of indoor antennae but the problem is I can't seem to get every station with one. The bear to get is KFSN I got all other channels with an indoor except 30.

I have tried any number of indoor antennae but the problem is I can't seem to get every station with one. The bear to get is KFSN I got all other channels with an indoor except 30.


30 was the toughest for me too. And even though now it is tuned in, on occassion it looks like it might break up again. Like I said, I use 2 antenna coupled together, it's all about experimenting. But no guarantees. If you have to give up one channel to get another, that's about the only option left, other than putting up an outside antenna.

Anybody have trouble with KMPH? I can't seem to get KMPH digital.

When I try to scan Ch. 28 using my Sasem/Onair tuner, I get the following:

Sasem/OnAir (http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/6316/sasemuntitled22dg.jpg)

Yep...

HD TiVo isn't tuning in KMPH-DT. The tuner card (MyHD) causes an immediate reboot when I try to record.

Oddly enough, my TV tuner is picking it up just fine. (Sony 50" SXRD)


Grrrrr!!!!!!!

Yep...

HD TiVo isn't tuning in KMPH-DT. The tuner card (MyHD) causes an immediate reboot when I try to record.

Oddly enough, my TV tuner is picking it up just fine. (Sony 50" SXRD)


Grrrrr!!!!!!!


Was able to scan in on KMPH-DT after watching the two hours of "24" in SD tonite!

BOO!!!! :mad:

KMPH was down for me also on 26.1. When I would try 28.1 the PSIP would take my set back to 26.1. However after every commercial break I would check it (24 fan also) and about 40 min in it was back up.

Any news on KMPH HD availability on Comcast?

I'm soooo close to ditching my Comcast DVR's and digital service, and solely run Windows MediaCenter (MCE) instead. It works fantastic currently, and I can stream live/recorded HD content to any/all of three the HD monitors in the house via three XBOX360's connected via ethernet. This technology solution has way over delivered in its capabilities and is almost ready for the ultimate test... the WAF test!
However, before I can present it to my wife and get rid of the Comcast DVR's, I have one remaining problem: MCE will not tune in CBS Digital (47.1 KGPE). Any other MCE users in town having this problem? I have dual FusionHDTV 5 Gold cards, and the software that comes with the cards shows the station fine and says I have 92% signal strength. I've been trying to fix this for over a week and can't find a solution. Some people have suggested that MCE relies on the PSIP info, and that most likely KGPE's is messed up. Does that make any sense?

Oh... BTW - I have all 4 hours of this week's "24" in HD on my MCE server, 26 HD recorded fine for me. Go figure....

Thanks for the help!
Adam

I have been trying for 2 months to get 47.1 KGPE on my Voom HD receiver. I can get a 99% signal before trying to scan, but when I go to scan, it will pause for 20 seconds or so, but will never lock on to their channel. Channel 47 engineers hang around here some times so it would be nice for them to maybe help. The ID is not being picked up on my box either. I live in Clovis as well. I can get all the other local stations but no KGPE. If I can't get one, I might as well not be able to any due to the WAF. Long and short is I don't think it is your computer cards problem........

Jays,

Thanks for the response. I guess I'm glad that I'm not the only one... but a little nervous about resolving the issue knowing that yours hasn't been working the last two months. I emailed engineering@cbs47.tv this afternoon. I'll post back if I get a response. Fingers crossed.....

Adam

I'm investigating using OTA HD with an indoor antenna as opposed to the Comcast HD cable box with just the basic/standard cable. I'm in north-east Clovis north of Herndon and Armstrong.

With the Comcast HD box and standard cable I only get four HDTV stations: ABC, NBC, CBS, and PBS.

I've looked at Antennaweb to see which HD channels I can get from my location, but wanted to get feedback from existing OTA HD users about what is actually possible.

Using an indoor antenna (or antennas (antennea? :-D)) which OTA HD stations can I expect to get?

Which antenna would you suggest?

If anyone has made their own PC-based PVR that uses OTA HD and also regular cable, I'd really like to hear about how you did this.

Thanks!

Any news on KMPH HD availability on Comcast?
I'd like to know also !

Hork,

I am at Peach/Teague, and use an outdoor UHF antenna on a 6 ft mast mounted to the 2nd story roof of my home. The antenna is the old-school $20 flat mesh screen one from Fresno Ag. I receive all the following digital stations: KMPH (FOX 26.1), KSEE (NBC, 24.1,2), KVPT (PBS 18.1,2), KAIL (UPN 53 7.1), KGMC (43), KFSN (ABC,30.1,2,3), KFRE (WB, 59.1), KGPE (CBS, 47.1 - but see my post above), KFTV (21.1), and KTFF (61.1,2). While testing my setup, I've used an indoor el-cheapo antenna, and was able to receive the same lineup, but had to continually adjust the position. Again, this was just for testing. I have some other buddies that have had great luck with antennaes mounted in their attic or just postioned in their media cabinet. Pat, if your listening, what are are/were you using?

As for your last question, my current setup is a Windows Media Center Box. 2 analog tuners connected to Comcast basic cable (could connect my Comcast digital receiver - but why? I want to ditch the dang thing.), 2 digital tuners connected via OTA. I also had a Fedora linux-based MythTV setup prior to the XBOX 360 being released. That worked well too... but just took A LOT of work and I never even bothered submitting it for the WAF test.

Let me know if you need more specifics. Feel free to PM me.

Adam

Good news! The Director of Engineering from KGPE called me this morning to let me know that a few other MediaCenter users have also reported the same problem and that he is actively working on finding a resolution. I'll post back as I get more info. Jays, there may be hope for your VOOM box! :)

Adam

Here is the full reply from Comcast in response to an email inquiry I sent from their website asking about FOX HD. It arrived within 10 minutes of my email. Obviously a prewritten "canned" response.

Thank you for contacting Comcast.

Comcast is committed to deploying HDTV service. We are working to provide as many high definition channel broadcasters as possible. Here are some of the factors involved with expanding our high definition lineup in Madera:

-the negotiation and contract process required to obtain the rights to carry a specific high definition broadcast, such as TNT-HD and FOX HD

-the increased bandwidth resources which are required

-the relatively low number of subscribers (currently only a small minority of customers have high definition compatible television sets)

We will continue to explore additional HD programming opportunities as more content providers make plans to offer their programming in HD format.

We appreciate the fact that you took the time to let us know what is important to you. We hope to expand our high definition channel lineup as fast as we can. Unfortunately we are unable to provide specific details regarding the launch of new channels at this time, please keep an eye on your monthly billing statement as the announcement of any channel additions will appear on those statements.

Thank you for choosing Comcast.

Sincerely,

Tamra
Comcast Online Customer Support

Don't know if this has been posted in this thread yet or not...

Spoke with D* tonight, and was told that our area (central valley) is scheduled to receive the MPEG4 HD-lil upgrade this May. Originally, it was thought it would be the end of this year, and being somewhat skeptical I burrowed my way deeper past CSR's to make sure, and sure enough, May!

Also, I inquired about the equipment upgrades and after once again getting through the CSR's (the first told me I would have to pay $99 to upgrade to the 5 LNB, but that my current HD-Tivo would work, the 2nd was honest and told me she had no idea) I spoke with the installation division and was told that the dish, installation, and new HD-Tivo would all be free. I'm expecting it also to require a programming commitment as well, but didn't ask about that part.

Anyway, exciting news for D* subs.

Just noticed an on-box message from Comcast that we will be getting Universal HD for the olympics. I'm going from memory here, but I think it said channel 926 and will be available 2/9/06.

Anybody know if UHD will stay after the olympics, or is it just temporary?

Just noticed an on-box message from Comcast that we will be getting Universal HD for the olympics. I'm going from memory here, but I think it said channel 926 and will be available 2/9/06.

Anybody know if UHD will stay after the olympics, or is it just temporary?
Yeah I just noticed this as well. I would hope Universal hd would be a permanent addition to the cable lineup but have my doubts. Why would they all of the sudden give us Universal hd when we don't have fox hd, tnt hd, etc...:confused:

Universal HD will be permanent. Spoke with my Comcast rep, and he also informed me that they will be carrying the WB hd channel as soon as they get their upgrade done. As for Fox, Pappas is still playing hard ball and there is at the moment no end in site as to when they will be able to carry the Fox HD channel. I'll update as I have more news. No news for TNT-HD either.

As for Fox, Pappas is still playing hard ball and there is at the moment no end in site as to when they will be able to carry the Fox HD channel. I'll update as I have more news. No news for TNT-HD either.

If I were Comcast, I'd seriously think about telling him that if he doesn't accept our offer within the next 30 days, we wouldn't be back to talk to him until we had stuff like The Weather Channel and Telemundo in HD :)

I wonder if KMPH realizes that many of us with HD boxes (even if we have QAM tuners) do not watch KMPH very much because we pretty much surf just the HD channels. Now on the bedroom TV I watch them more because it doesn't make a difference. As more and more of the public gets HD boxes I'm sure this is going decrease viewership for them.

Just noticed an on-box message from Comcast that we will be getting Universal HD for the olympics. I'm going from memory here, but I think it said channel 926 and will be available 2/9/06.

Turned on my tv today and noticed that UHD is on channel 920, replacing INHD for the time being. What gives? I thought that UHD was supposed to be on 926, not replacing one of the inhd channels!

Something is fishy around here... ;)

Turned on my tv today and noticed that UHD is on channel 920, replacing INHD for the time being. What gives? I thought that UHD was supposed to be on 926, not replacing one of the inhd channels!

Something is fishy around here... ;)

Yup...my box received a message yesterday changing the channel to 920...so they are NOT adding a new channel. Rats.

I don't know if I should laugh or cry. I e-mailed Comcast a year ago (Jan 2005) and got the exact same canned reply...word for word. So I guess they haven't pursued it any further? Also, remember last year in January, Comcast had commercials saying they were working towards having KMPH-DT before the superbowl? Well that came and went...not to mention ANOTHER super bowl...


Here is the full reply from Comcast in response to an email inquiry I sent from their website asking about FOX HD. It arrived within 10 minutes of my email. Obviously a prewritten "canned" response.

Thank you for contacting Comcast.

Comcast is committed to deploying HDTV service. We are working to provide as many high definition channel broadcasters as possible. Here are some of the factors involved with expanding our high definition lineup in Madera:

-the negotiation and contract process required to obtain the rights to carry a specific high definition broadcast, such as TNT-HD and FOX HD

-the increased bandwidth resources which are required

-the relatively low number of subscribers (currently only a small minority of customers have high definition compatible television sets)

We will continue to explore additional HD programming opportunities as more content providers make plans to offer their programming in HD format.

We appreciate the fact that you took the time to let us know what is important to you. We hope to expand our high definition channel lineup as fast as we can. Unfortunately we are unable to provide specific details regarding the launch of new channels at this time, please keep an eye on your monthly billing statement as the announcement of any channel additions will appear on those statements.

Thank you for choosing Comcast.

Sincerely,

Tamra
Comcast Online Customer Support

Is it just me or were there a lot of glitches/freezing during the Olympics broadcast tonight on KSEE?

Is it just me or were there a lot of glitches/freezing during the Olympics broadcast tonight on KSEE?

No, it wasn't just you--it was happening to me, too (Visalia).

Fortunately, it's been much improved since then.

Fresno made the list of the next batch of 24 HD-LIL markets being added by D* starting in April.

Don't know if this has been posted in this thread yet or not...

Spoke with D* tonight, and was told that our area (central valley) is scheduled to receive the MPEG4 HD-lil upgrade this May. Originally, it was thought it would be the end of this year, and being somewhat skeptical I burrowed my way deeper past CSR's to make sure, and sure enough, May!


...

Fresno made the list of the next batch of 24 HD-LIL markets being added by D* starting in April.

So what does this mean for us Fresnan's? Can somenone clue me in?

It means that in April our local HD stations will be available on DirecTV. Those who can't get local ota reception of these channels will be able to get them off the satellite. It will require a receiver and dish upgrade, and no DVR is available that will handle the mpeg-4 signals these channels will be using.

It means that in April our local HD stations will be available on DirecTV. Those who can't get local ota reception of these channels will be able to get them off the satellite. It will require a receiver and dish upgrade, and no DVR is available that will handle the mpeg-4 signals these channels will be using.

Cool. Thank you, Steve.

Anyone notice 18.2 PBS-HD looks a little dark compared to the other local stations?

Also, what's the deal with commercials on 26.1 during HD programs? The show will be in 16:9 HD, but then when they cut to a commercial, the sides of the screen are blacked out, but you can see thru a little gap at the top of the blacked-out part that the commercial is also in 16:9 HD.

I think I have also seen shows and sporting events where they blocked out the sides, but you can clearly see through the little gap that the show is in 16:9. What are they doing?

hey fellow fresnans/clovinians(?)...just bought me a 42" sony lcd KDF-42A10 and im using DishNetwork with a 625 receiver. It has the plug on it to hook up an antenna, but i cant figure out how to tune it to those chans thru the receiver since u cant do 26.1 or 26-1 or anything with a . or - on the remote. any of u have dishnetwork and have it hooked up? i bought a Terk TV5 antenna and get all the chans when I hook it up to the antenna input on the tv itself, but then its bypassing my receiver and just coming thru the tv speakers, which kinda defeats its purpose...any help would be a big plus

Are you sure that unit will receive HDTV? Just because it has an antenna input doesn't mean it will get HDTV. Look at the manual and check if the unit has an ATSC tuner. That's what you're gonna need for local over the air HDTV reception.

has anyone esle had a lot of drop out with 26.1 the last 2 days? im not home during the day but my wife says it drops out some during the day, but last ngiht it was really bad watchin american idol...right now its ok...dropped out a couple times...but i was curious if you guys r experiencing it also

American Idol was just fine for me last night. I don't get any dropouts ever with Fox. The only problem I've had was on 24 this week, they didn't send it in HD untill about 45 mins into the show.

Maybe you have a signal problem wtih your antenna, before I put a roof mount antenna on my system I would get dropouts whenever anyone moved by the antenna.

I temporarily connected my HD set top box to a UHF-only antenna last night and did a channel scan. Was surprised when channel 36 came up. Is this a new station?

They were playing a King of the Hill rerun, so I'm guessing it's either a FOX, UPN or WB affiliate.

When I switched back to the antenna I usually use I could not tune it in.

36-1 is KFRE the WB 59 on regular tv.

My tuner shows it as 36-3. Yep, they're playing the same stupid cartoon as 59 analog.

Ok, for some reason I thought WB 59 digital broadcast on 59.1. As long as I can watch the Giants games when the season starts, they can call it whatever number they want.

Thanks DiCecco!

Finally...
Now able to get KGPE on MCE 2005.
PSIP is now showing correct Transport Stream ID.
Don't know if Brad Strommen ( Eng at KGPE) monitors this forum, but thanks for finally getting it sorted out.

Yep, Brad (KGPE Engineering Director) emailed me Friday stating that he upgradied the software on their MUX. My MCE server and XBOX 360's are finally able to view CBS-HD. YeeHaww!!! I can now return my Comcast DVR's! :)

Thanks, Brad!!

Adam

Please excuse my newbie questions, but I could use some help.

I just received my first HDTV (Panasonic th42px60u), on Friday. I am using Comcast cable and have only basic service (channels 2-65).

Does Comcast broadcast the local channels in HD, or do I have to upgrade my service (and get a HD cable box)? I'm sure that if I contact Comcast directly, they'll tell me that I definitely need to upgrade my service and force me to rent a box.

I understand from this forum that using an antenna is the preferred method, but I would like to have my cable channels as well. Is it possible to connect both an antenna and cable with some kind of switch (and not have to re-scan all channels when I switch back and forth)?

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

thank you

Try tuning to cable channels 80-1, 80-2, 109-1, and 109-3.

Those should be KSEE-DT, KGPE-DT, KFSN-HD, and KVPT-DT.

Been getting channel 47-HD via OTA set top box. Maybe they can fix the brightness on local news broadcasts. They're set way too bright, which would be OK, except that prime time HD programs like NCIS are way too dark and way too saturated.

So between the network stuff that's too dark and the local stuff that's too light, I never get a decent picture from that station.

Thanks David Ortiz. I was able to get the 109.1 and 109.3, (and apparently a few HBO and misc movie channels), but unable to locate 80.1 and 80.2. Is it possible that KGPE and KSEE have changed channels? Or is it that my tuner didn't pick them up via Comcast?

Chancellormark:

Despite my AVS forum address, I also tune in in Fresno!

You can use an antenna to input directly to the plasma and an A.V. input from the cable box. The TV will switch between the two based on which input you select.

Using a smallish $25 Radio Shack UHF only antenna mounted on the roof I get strong HD signals for ABC,CBS,NBC and Public TV. Most importantly I also get FOX over the air, which Comcast does not send to you in HD, even if you subscribe to Comcast HD. Since I like "24" and "American Idol", it's great to get them in HD. Not to mention Fox sports in HD. So I'm only subscribing to Comcast HD to get HBO, ESPN and HDNET. If it weren't for the very nice two tuner DVR that they supply I wouldn't bother. HBO looks good blown up from SD, especially since their series are usually transmitted in 16:9 with black bars. You lose nothing (of the picture) in the blow up.

Pm me if you have any questions.

Thanks Norde! I think I have that part figured out now.

Using standard Comcast cable, I've been able to receive 109-1 and 109-3 for local HD, but never 80-1 or 80-2.

I did notice last night that 1-2 showed up. I think it was KGPE. Has anyone else noticed it?

thanks!

I also get 1-2 as CBS I never get it as 80-1 or 80-2. When I tune in to 80-1 or 80-2 it maps it to 1-2. From time to time I get 109-1 - 109-3, but most of the time the signal is too weak. You also should be able to get something on 87-2, 105-3 and 116-1 (at least my Toshiba does).

Thanks DrewM,

I have flipped through the hundreds of digital channels after 75 on Comcast and found a few channels that come and go... usually movie channels.

I do get 105-3 most of the time (Movieplex?) and a few around 86-2 through 86-10. When I get the 86-x channels, they often have cursing and nudity, so I'm assuming that they're premium channels. I few weeks ago, I found about 5 HBO stations... which have since disappeared.

I really want to compile a list of channels, but it seems many of them come and go on a daily/hourly basis.

Hi, I am new to the forum and to hdtv. I have comcast with cable card. Here's my problem. When are we gonna get ESPN 2? Comcast has a terrible lineup compared to other companies. I live in an apt and sattelite is not doable because I'm pretty sure we don't face the correct direction. I really want more HD programming, but comcast just does not seem committed. Are there any other options?

Has anyone heard rumors about WB-59 and KAIL UPN-53 combining into one station? I heard something to that effect a while back.

It would be nice to get some HD programming from one of them, but that does not seem to be happening yet either.

*Sound of wind blowing as tumblweed rolls past*

The WB and UPN are forming a new network I can't remember what its going to be called. Also KAIL 53 (UPN) is giong to join up with another network with aobut 16 hours of prime time programming per week. There was a write up in the Bee about a month ago.

As far as comcast goes I don't think your the only one who want's more HD. I called comcast last year asking for this channel for football season, and all I got was some canned answer basicly saying, when were good and ready we might add something and that doesn't mean it will be ESPN2. I've read different sites across the web ands its more or less the same for most comcast subcribers wanting more HD and getting none.

I just moved out to Clovis, so I'm a little bit closer to the broadcast towers than Fresnans. I'm thinking of trying to set up HDTV on my Mac, but would want to use an indoor antenna for the time being. Does anyone have an indoor antenna which they'd reccommend based on experience?

The WB and UPN are forming a new network I can't remember what its going to be called. Also KAIL 53 (UPN) is giong to join up with another network with aobut 16 hours of prime time programming per week. There was a write up in the Bee about a month ago.

OK, so it looks like both stations will stay on the air. That's good, but I wonder if either of them have plans to do any HD broadcasts. KAIL seems to have some sound problems (too loud) on my OTA setup (USD TV set top tuner from WalMart).

Much the programming on 18.2 that I at first thought was HD seems to be just regular digital, at least that is my strong suspicion. However, I have no way with my current setup of knowing for sure what is HD and what is not.

This whole digital/hi-def conversion is taking A LOT longer than I would have ever expected.

Hey Plastique, I'm not too knowledgeable about indoor antennas, but there seems to be a high BS factor with some of the more expensive brands. I would just try a cheap one from Radio Shack and see what it can do, at least for a start, and if you're not happy with it return it.

Also check this thread for indoor antenna help, if you haven't found yourself already:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=663624

It looks like channel 36 is now full power. I'm able to tune it in for the first time. Hopefully by the time the CW launches, it will be ready to pass HD and DD 5.1.

when will direct tv offer hd channels in the fresno area?

What's the status on Fox-HD being added to Comcast? I've been waiting for over a year now.

It looks like channel 36 is now full power. I'm able to tune it in for the first time. Hopefully by the time the CW launches, it will be ready to pass HD and DD 5.1.


Yeah, 59.1 AKA channel 36 does seem to be coming in a lot better. Looking forward to some high-def Giants games, if that's a possibility.

KSEE 24 analog keeps going off the air a lot during the past week though.

No one else wishes Fox-HD was on Comcast?

No one else wishes Fox-HD was on Comcast?

I have a built in HD tuner. :-D

They are in a Pissing match, its all about the $$.

is their any info on when direct will offer hd locals?

Thinking of having my SONY KDP-57WS655 HDTV calibrated this summer, any ISF techs in the local area that anybody knows of??? I've been using the AVIA and DVE discs for home set up and she looks good but after reading all the threads of people having their HDTV's cal'ed I'd like to see the TV's full potential. :D
Thanks John

John, I have all the equipment and have had most of the necessary training but I haven't completed the ISF class yet. If you are interested, I could do that. My in-laws live in Porterville so I head down there once every few weeks. I could throw in a free touch-up once I get my certification if that would make you feel better. PM me for details.

Mr. P you have mail, what an AWESOME set up your building can't wait to see it finished, keep up the good work and keep the pix coming.
John

Anybody have a current list of all the OTA HD/Digital channels for the valley from Bakersfield to Fresno, i've heard there have been some changes lately.
John

All of the local network stations have digital counterparts (18, 21, 23, 24, 26, 29, 30, 47, 49, 53, 51, 59, 61). Many multicast (18, 21, 24, 30, etc.) You probably know this already.

The only recent changes I have seen is that 47 has added a second non-HD multicast (47.2) that they seem to be testing. For the moment, it's the same programming as 47.1 only with no audio signal.

My antenna is aimed toward the Fresno stations so that's all I can talk about. There may be some new stations towards Bakersfield, but I don't keep up with them because I don't have a rotor needed to tune them in.

Still waiting for Comcast to carry KMPH-D. Come on guys...it's only been a few years now.

Here's a friendly suggestion: Get an HD set top box and an antenna and ditch Comcast. There's a decent selection of free digital and HD over the air programming, and the signal is probably better than Comcast's.

It's getting so that nearly all the primetime programming and major sporting events on ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX are broadcast in HD.

Don't know if this has been posted in this thread yet or not...

Spoke with D* tonight, and was told that our area (central valley) is scheduled to receive the MPEG4 HD-lil upgrade this May. Originally, it was thought it would be the end of this year, and being somewhat skeptical I burrowed my way deeper past CSR's to make sure, and sure enough, May!

Also, I inquired about the equipment upgrades and after once again getting through the CSR's (the first told me I would have to pay $99 to upgrade to the 5 LNB, but that my current HD-Tivo would work, the 2nd was honest and told me she had no idea) I spoke with the installation division and was told that the dish, installation, and new HD-Tivo would all be free. I'm expecting it also to require a programming commitment as well, but didn't ask about that part.

Anyway, exciting news for D* subs.

For further info, give 'em a call Vaddie. However, if at first you don't get the info, ask to speak with someone else that knows. D* has released officially that May is indeed the month for us.

Has anybody else had problems with 47.1 this week? My Windows MCE box stopped receiveing the signal again!!

Adam

47.1 has been fine, but 47.2 seems to be gone for the past couple of days. BTW, I'm using an over the air HDTV tuner (SIR-T451) with a roof antenna.

direct came out this morning and installed 5 lnb dish stated may 13 is turn on day for hd.

Great, let us know how it goes and whether the HD picture quality is any good.

Vaddie, did they charge you for the dish/installation or the H20? (I'm assuming you are upgrading as a current D* sub.)

it was no charge,i hope the locals come on as stated 5/13/06

Did anyone receive American Idol in HD from KMPH on 5/10? Thanks.

Has anybody else had problems with 47.1 this week? My Windows MCE box stopped receiveing the signal again!!

Adam

47.1 has been out for me on MCE2005, looking at PSIP code it has reverted to how it used to be a few months back, missing Transport Stream ID under the PAT PID
Might need to contact Eng and Brad Strommen again.

Channel 18.1 and 18.2 also out for me, you too ?
Looks like missing PSIP data also, can't see any VCT data.

!8.2 and 18.1 no longer work for me on my LG 3410a . If I change the channel numbers in the guide to 40.1 and 40.2 they work just fine.

*anxiously awaits info from Vaddie*

I had the same experience with 18.1 and 18.2 changing to 40.1 and 40.2. I thought it was my SIR-T451 acting up, but I guess they changed something at station's end.

Also, 26.1 was being displayed as 28 by my tuner yesterday, but today it's back to 26!

Update: On Friday 5-12, in the middle of a program, 40.1 went blank then switched back to 18.1. What's going on here?

directtv did not turn on locals today.

Same here 40-1 now is back to 18-1 for me too.

vaddie, would you be so kind to update us when the locals are in fact turned on for you?

i will post as soon as they come on

I am a former Directv customer, but I was thinking about turning it back on because I heard that the local channels were going to be offfered in HD this month. It looks like that hasn't happened yet. I have the 3 LNB dish--will that work when it starts, or will I need a 5 LNB?

I would rather just get it off air, but I have been trying to pick up local HD channels of the air and it just isn't working well. Can anybody tell me what you are using to get the signal off the air? I currently have the extra antenna that clips onto the old directv dish--that worked for a while, but the signal strength is just lousy now. I wouldn't mind picking up a new antenna but I don't know what works and what doesn't. I would sure appreciate any advice on how to get off the air HD in the Visalia area. Thanks!

To Giant chicken,
I live in Exeter about 10 miles from you. I will tell you what I have as an antenna.
I have the second largest Channelmaster Quantum with a pre-amp and rotor.
I recieive perfectly Bakersfield channels ABC, NBC, FOX, CBS , AND upn45. I receive
Visalia 49 and 61.
From Fresno I receive ABC, NBC, CBS, WB, PBS, UPN, Fox, Univsion, and Telemundo.
I receive all these stations in digital and analogue. If you want to receive every digital station in your area I would buy the largest UHF/VHF antenna Channelmaster now makes , a rotor and a pre-amp. If you do this you will receive all the Bakersfield stations and all the Fresno stations. The reason you need a VHF/ UHF antenna is because ABC Bakersfield is on channel 10-1 , Fresno ABC is on 9-1, Fresno UPN is on 7-1 and Telemundo is on 5-1.

Roof antennas are definitely the way to go, if you have a place to mount one. Radio Shack has a VU-90XR that I'm using. It's a $60 VHF antenna that also works for UHF. Don't get hung up on whether the antenna is "HD Ready" or not, since there are no differences. Just be aware of whether it's UHF or VHF.

You can also use a regular rectangular UHF antenna, but some of the local HD stations (KSFN 30) broadcast on VHF so you may not pick them up.

I can't help you at all with indoor antennas, except to say they aren't as good as outdoor ones and probably aren't advisable unless you are less than 20 miles from the transmitters.

Ihave an older legacy UHF antennae from Radio Shack that I placed in the attic of a two story house. It seems about a year ago, the Fresno stations had gone totally weak or changed to VHF frequency, that I no longer receive them as easily or none at all. Based on the previous comments it looks like I have to upgrade to a much larger antennae that is combo frequencies. Just the thought of putting this gigantic set of rods in the attic makes me shudder but at least I just don't have to be coughing up of upwards of $ 60 per month.

Right now I'm just having fun playing with the HD DVD player. :D

Thanks for the advice, everybody! I appreciate it, and it looks like I have some antenna shopping to do.

47.1 has been out for me on MCE2005, looking at PSIP code it has reverted to how it used to be a few months back, missing Transport Stream ID under the PAT PID
Might need to contact Eng and Brad Strommen again.

Channel 18.1 and 18.2 also out for me, you too ?
Looks like missing PSIP data also, can't see any VCT data.

CHRBRO,

Sorry for my delayed response. I tried sending an email to Strommen, and it bounced back. I called 47 on Wed and was told he no longer works for the station. :( I asked to be transferred to the current Director of Engineering, was told there wasn't one. :mad: Finally, I was able to be transferred to somebody named Chuck.... and left him two voicemails. Haven't heard back yet. I'm afraid CBS HD may be off air for us MCE users for a while....

Last I checked 18.1 & 18.2 worked, but the guide data for 18.2 is missing because of Zap2It's ineptitude. I've been trying for months to get them to fix their guide data, it is wrong for KVPT on OTA Digital and Digital Cable. :mad:

18.2 needs to quit playing the same programs over and over again. That stupid Alaska Railway show has been on easily 200 times.

Also, I notice that when the same (SD) program is playing on 18.1 and 18.2 the pictures are calibrated completely different.

I'm not sure if anything on 18.2 is true HD. Some of the shows look extremely compressed.

A lot of the programming on 18.2 isn't true HD, just widescreen upconverted SD. Usually the upconverted stuff has PBS widescreen in the intro shots while the true HD stuff will have PBS-HD.

When HD was first introduced back in '98, PBS was a sort of showcase for it because the government wanted to push the digital tv transition as hard as possible so the freed up analog bandwidth could be sold. Since then funding for HD programming production at PBS has pretty much dried up so they are forced to keep running the same loop of old stuff over and over. Many PBS stations in larger markets are de-emphasizing HD in favor of lots of multicasting.

Thanks Steve, that explains a lot. So some of 18.2's programming actually is in HD.

I have no way of confirming that a broadcast is "true" HD. And since 18 does multicast I suspected that maybe they were compressing their HD programs.

And in the meantime, lets hope they can dig up some new programming, be it public access, test patterns, or anything (except more Teletubbies or Barney).

CHRBRO,
I'm afraid CBS HD may be off air for us MCE users for a while....


18 went off for about a week for me, but came back on the Friday as Notrust mentioned.
So Brad's not around anymore ? I'll e-mail them too.... see if can get any response.

What's with KFSN?

They need to clean up their act! During ABC primetime broadcasting, I find it extremely annoying that after commercials, the station is stuck in SD and runs stupid "11 O'Clock" news promos at the bottom of the screen before switching back to HD.

And after tonite's Desperate Housewives season finale, the ABC 720p test loop ran for ~20 minutes until whoever was in charge realized they weren't broadcasting the the 11pm news on the digital channel.

left, center (http://i4.tinypic.com/10e25hk.jpg)

right (http://i4.tinypic.com/10e25xi.jpg)

left surround, right surround (http://i4.tinypic.com/10e27ie.jpg)

So they beg you to watch the 11:00 news, so you tune in at 11:00 and it's not there. What a tease! :confused:

I had a question about KAIL digital 7 over the air. I have a decent picture and signal on that station, but every time time someone or something during a program moves quickly, I get a ton of pixelization in the area where the movement is taking place.

So do I have a weak signal or is it something at the station causing this to happen?

So Brad's not around anymore ? I'll e-mail them too.... see if can get any response.

Chuck from KGPE called me back and he told me the new Chief of Engineering, Lee Williams, starts work today. I also got a call from the Assitant Chief, Ken Nightengale (spell?), and he stated that they are currently "tuning" the PSIP and PID info as they are rolling out 47.2, and that MCE should be working again soon. Not sure how soon.... but hopefully before the new fall lineup starts!

Adam

I had a question about KAIL digital 7 over the air.


My MCE also has a problem with KAIL digital. If I try to watch it from the MCE server or from any of my XBOX 360's, I'll usually get a about a half second of video, then an error stating that "Files needed to display video are not installed or not working correctly. Please restart Media Center and/or restart the computer." This is really wacky and bogus error message, and only occurs with KAIL.

Adam

47 made a brief appearance for me yesterday but off again today.
KAIL I don't get on MCE2005. but I think it's due to low signal strength.
I'll check it out too, swing the antenna around a bit, see if I can bring it in.

Been having lots of trouble with breakup on various stations lately on my OTA tuner (Samsung SIR-T451). I can't tell if its from newly-leafed-out trees or something on the broadcast end.

49.1 is almost completely gone, and even 24.1 and 30.1 are giving me problems. 47 was gone for a while yesterday, but I think they are doing work on their broadcast setup in preparation for launching 47.2.

So they beg you to watch the 11:00 news, so you tune in at 11:00 and it's not there. What a tease! :confused:

I had a question about KAIL digital 7 over the air. I have a decent picture and signal on that station, but every time time someone or something during a program moves quickly, I get a ton of pixelization in the area where the movement is taking place.

So do I have a weak signal or is it something at the station causing this to happen?

KAIL, analog 53, digital 7, is having lots of trouble. For months now their digital feed has not been right and their analog is off the air due to a damaged transmitter (though still available to cable customers).

On my HD-Tivo, KAIL comes in well--signal strength is good--but the picture stutters constantly, like it's only showing every 6th video frame or something--looks sorta like an old silent movie. Oddly enough the audio is ok.

KAIL has always been the poor stepchild among local Fresno stations--I'm astounded that they actually came up with any kind of digital broadcast. Luckily the shows I like to watch on KAIL like Veronica Mars are moving to KFRE-DT which is owned by Pappas broadcasting and has a good SD digital signal. It's been rumored the KFRE-DT will soon be able to pass HD from it's new CW network.

talked to direct installer and he stated they tried to turn on hd locals and it wouldn't work or come on.

I received word from D* that due to 'channel difficulties' in both the Fresno and Salt Lake markets, the HD locals launch was pulled. No word yet on a relaunch.

talked to D* today and was told hd locals will launch june 28 i hope.

i would like some info about a OTA set up for los banos i am about 80 miles from towers. any help please?

I think Radio Shack has a UHF/VHF roof antenna for around $100 that's rated as being able to receive stations 120 miles away. I hope you have space for a fairly large roof antenna, because that's what it's gonna take.

Circuit City in Fresno has quite a few open box Samsung SIR-T451 HD receivers for around $200. So you are looking at spending about $300 total, unless you can find a cheaper receiver on EBay. I think SIR-T451's go for around $120-140 there, but you take your chances and plus you have to pay for shipping.

Those are my suggestions, for what they are worth . . . .

Oh yeah, you could also get an HD receiver through D* but you'll have to subscribe to their HD package.

vaddie, according to antennaweb.org you have a lot of OTA channels you should pick up, Sacramento,Modesto, Stockton,Fresno,Visalia etc.. check out antennasdirect.com for a good long range antenna, i'm using the DB8 model which works great, as I can pickup everything between Fresno and Bakersfield, to get the most out of your antenna a Rotator is recommended, I use the Channel Master Rotator :D
John

vaddie, check out www.solidsignal.com

Comcast is adding ESPN2HD (http://www.cmcsk.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=147565&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=870634&highlight=) to several markets just in time for the World Cup. Did we get the channel? I'm at work and and can't check. :mad:

Comcast is adding ESPN2HD (http://www.cmcsk.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=147565&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=870634&highlight=) to several markets just in time for the World Cup. Did we get the channel? I'm at work and and can't check. :mad:

When you get home from work, :p tune in to channel 924. World cup soccer at its finest in Hi Definition.

I only wish the channel would remain after the world cup is over. Knowing comcast's record, I highly doubt it. :rolleyes:

some good news from direct abc and cbs hd locals were turned on this morning

Hey Vaddie,

Are your locals in MPEG 4? I read some posts from people saying the quality of MPEG 4 locals on D* was less than perfect (e.g. wierd colors on people's faces, artifacts, etc.).

some good news from direct abc and cbs hd locals were turned on this morning

Please post more info as you receive it.

Yes, 30 and 47 are up in MPEG-4. I stayed up to watch a little Letterman. Lip synch looked fine on both channels. I didn't notice any breakups in the picture. Quality looked good, but I was half asleep. I'll try and compare more when I'm awake.