DISH Network Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH), the nation’s third largest pay-TV provider and the digital transition leader, today announced the addition of eight high definition (HD) local markets: Burlington – Plattsburgh, Vt.; Greensboro – High Point – Winston Salem, N.C.; Greenville – Spartanburg – Asheville – Anderson, S.C.; Huntsville – Decatur, Ala.; Jackson, Miss.; Knoxville, Tenn.; Mobile – Pensacola (Ft. Walton Beach), Ala.; and Providence – New Bedford, R.I.

DISH Network Corporation (NASDAQ: DISH), the nation’s third largest pay-TV provider and the digital transition leader, today announced the addition of eight high definition (HD) local markets: Burlington – Plattsburgh, Vt.; Greensboro – High Point – Winston Salem, N.C.; Greenville – Spartanburg – Asheville – Anderson, S.C.; Huntsville – Decatur, Ala.; Jackson, Miss.; Knoxville, Tenn.; Mobile – Pensacola (Ft. Walton Beach), Ala.; and Providence – New Bedford, R.I.I'm literally in disbelief that E* just launched HD locals. No wonder I didn't consider them when making the switch from cable.

I'm literally in disbelief that E* just launched HD locals. No wonder I didn't consider them when making the switch from cable.

Wasn't it less than a year ago when DirectTV did the same?

I have been getting mine OTA with Dish. I like this better because it is not compressed and it gives me another tuner for the DVR. BTW does anyone know what channel numbers on Dish these will be?

Looks l ike my theory was correct about Channel 772 in the upstate, it is in fact the Braves HD Broadcasts from Peachtree TV... though at the moment (as of the opening) there is no audio

Looks l ike my theory was correct about Channel 772 in the upstate, it is in fact the Braves HD Broadcasts from Peachtree TV... though at the moment (as of the opening) there is no audio

Confirmed in Western NC, as well. The commercials are stretch-o-vision'ed, but otherwise, the game looks great.

Update at 9:46 p.m.: I see some pixelating, blank screen a few times and agree wtih cpalmer2k that the quality isn't quite as good as FSN 798. However, it's another Braves game in HD (an away game, no less).

This is labeled WPCHB on my cable box...and listed as "Off Air". It's just a whild guess, but I'm guessing this is where they are going to feed the Peachtree TV Atlanta Braves games.

Tonights Braves/Mets game showed up on this channel in HD. The quality wasn't as good as the games on FSN 798, but still good (except for some audio dropouts). My TiVo doesn't have guide data for it yet, but hopefully it will soon.

Charter dropped almost all of their HD VOD programming.

I'm still getting Starz-HD, but there's no Cinemax-HD, no HBO-HD (which had been mostly gone for a while, but it recently reappeared with some John Adams material, and no HD-VOD block at all (even though it was all PPV). I don't subscribe to Showtime, so I'm not sure if their HD VOD is still in place.

One of these days, I'm going to be less-lazy and dump them for DirecTV.

Charter dropped almost all of their HD VOD programming.

I'm still getting Starz-HD, but there's no Cinemax-HD, no HBO-HD (which had been mostly gone for a while, but it recently reappeared with some John Adams material, and no HD-VOD block at all (even though it was all PPV). I don't subscribe to Showtime, so I'm not sure if their HD VOD is still in place.

One of these days, I'm going to be less-lazy and dump them for DirecTV.Well, hopefully Charter will update their brochures that say the number of HD choices they have in comparison to satellite. Ha...choices, what a joke. I made the switch to D* from Charter about 14 months ago, and haven't regretted it for a minute.

Charter dropped almost all of their HD VOD programming.

I'm still getting Starz-HD, but there's no Cinemax-HD, no HBO-HD (which had been mostly gone for a while, but it recently reappeared with some John Adams material, and no HD-VOD block at all (even though it was all PPV). I don't subscribe to Showtime, so I'm not sure if their HD VOD is still in place.

One of these days, I'm going to be less-lazy and dump them for DirecTV.

This post from the 'Charlotte, NC - Charter' Message Board might shed a little light on the issues with their HD VOD: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13537390&postcount=252

Charter dropped almost all of their HD VOD programming.

I'm still getting Starz-HD, but there's no Cinemax-HD, no HBO-HD (which had been mostly gone for a while, but it recently reappeared with some John Adams material, and no HD-VOD block at all (even though it was all PPV). I don't subscribe to Showtime, so I'm not sure if their HD VOD is still in place.

One of these days, I'm going to be less-lazy and dump them for DirecTV.

It looks like even Starz-HD has been taken off...no HD "Options" are available at present...:(

Oddly, when I checked earlier tonight, it was all back for me...at least in the state it was a few weeks ago. Premiums are back. PPV is back. Still nothing "free" in high-def.

Dump Charter.......The HD water on DirectTv is warm and inviting.

+1

Dump Charter.......The HD water on DirectTv is warm and inviting.

It isn't warm and inviting when trees and topography block the view from 'ole South.

Oddly, when I checked earlier tonight, it was all back for me...at least in the state it was a few weeks ago. Premiums are back. PPV is back. Still nothing "free" in high-def.

Your "nothing "free" in high-def" doesn't include the locals I assume ... CBS/NBC/ABC/FOX/PBS are still there in my side (Greer) of Greenville in decent quality.

Your "nothing "free" in high-def" doesn't include the locals I assume ...I'm talking about just the VOD programming. Charter used to have music videos and live performances, episodes of AMC's Breaking Bad, programming from Wealth TV and the Sundance Channel, highlights from the NCAA finals, some nature eye candy, and the occasional movie/replay of a sporting event for free in HD on demand, but they've stripped all that away, leaving only material with a price tag. Even the PPV and premium programming disappears and reappears day by day.

It isn't warm and inviting when trees and topography block the view from 'ole South.

cut em down and dig the hill............. make room

Have any moderators given thought to creating a Charter forum separate from the local HDTV forum, this has become that and seems to very seldom stick to the topic of local OTA anymore. I would not hook up to Charter if they came out to the stix where I live even if they offered it for free, I removed some trees to get a Southern clear view, and get my locals OTA and don't even get the local pkg off of my Sat service.

Have any moderators given thought to creating a Charter forum separate from the local HDTV forum, this has become that and seems to very seldom stick to the topic of local OTA anymore. I would not hook up to Charter if they came out to the stix where I live even if they offered it for free, I removed some trees to get a Southern clear view, and get my locals OTA and don't even get the local pkg off of my Sat service.

This is 'Greenville, SC - HDTV' not 'Greenville, SC - OTA'. We hear not only about OTA and Charter, but also Mediacom, D* and E* here (among other smaller systems). All of these systems are linked to OTA since they (Cable and Satellite Services), in general, carry most of them in their channel lineups. In addition, we (in NC and SC) are in mostly mountainous and/or hilly territory to where OTA is difficult to receive unless we're using one of the aforementioned services. Other Message Boards (i.e. 'Raleigh, NC - HDTV') consider such services as part of their coverage in addition to local OTA. It's a consumer market, so all of the information about local OTA, Cable and Satellite Services (and FiOS and U-verse in the future) can do nothing, but benefit all of us.

Has anyone had any issues with Charter ch 8 WNTV? For the last few months it has been unwatchable. The framerate is so low that everything is jerky. Unfortunately I can't pick it up OTA. The digital versions WNTVDT2 (ch 115) and WNTVDT3 (ch 788) are fine, so I would assume it is either a problem on Charter's end or there is a problem with the analog feed.

My HD VOD is out on Charter...I see from other posts this has been an issue for at least a few days. Right now I can't find any HD programming whatsoever on the on-demand channel...this includes Showtime, Cinemax, Starz, and PPV.

Hope this comes back very soon. Up until now I've been fairly pleased with Charter's on-demand HD offerings. If it's not back soon, maybe I'll finally be able to convince myself to get rid of Charter.

WHNS-DT has been replaced on Charter (at least in Buncombe Co.) temporarily with WHNS' analog signal on 786 and 246 (FOX Carolina Weather) is unavailable. It looks like a reception issue. Any OTA'ers noticing problems with WHNS-DT via antenna?

WHNS-DT has been replaced on Charter (at least in Buncombe Co.) temporarily with WHNS' analog signal on 786 and 246 (FOX Carolina Weather) is unavailable. It looks like a reception issue. Any OTA'ers noticing problems with WHNS-DT via antenna?

21.1 OTA is still in HD so the issue is with Charter as usual.

The NASCAR race on WHNS through Charter is in SD. I don't have an antenna so it looks like I'm stuck with SD tonight.

WHNS-DT has been replaced on Charter (at least in Buncombe Co.) temporarily with WHNS' analog signal on 786 and 246 (FOX Carolina Weather) is unavailable. It looks like a reception issue. Any OTA'ers noticing problems with WHNS-DT via antenna?

FOX 21 in HD on DirectTv. Nascar is stunning

You just have to rub it in don't ya!

WHNS on Charter finally switched back onto HD.

I Live in Pendleton SC, just a few minutes north and west from Anderson, SC

Regarding OTA reception issues..

I also noticed the large swing on the signal strength meter for WLOS DT 56 (abc)from Ashville NC. While WUNF DT (pbs)has a steady but a bit less strength, both come from within a few miles of eachother correct?

WMYA DT is located right near my location yet I have noticed some poor signal levels from them as well, as mentioned by another poster.

Regarding WHNS DT (fox) has anyone else noticed the lack of black level from the station. It seems like the contrast range is compressed . I haven't noticed a problem on any other station like this. But then again their analog signal used to have fine contrast levels ( black and white levels) on their local live programs but very low white levels on the satellite feeds from fox tv and other sources like Raycom sports.

Concerning WYFF....they need to do something about their signal as well, they are just not making it consistantly into the Anderson area. Maybe they need to install a temporary dt here in this area. Until their permenant set up is ready in 2010?
As an aside I recently e mailed WYFF and asked about them carrying MSNBC on sub channel 4.3. Received a short and somewhat curt reply indicating that they had no plans to carry anything other than NBC and Weather plus. Heck MSNBC is a sister network that would probably clear them to have the channel for free since they are not carried widely on cable except on Charter.

Finally what is going on with WNEG TV (cbs) in Toccoa GA? There DT channel is 24 but I have seen nothing from them yet. I should be getting their signal as we are pretty close to them as well.

WGGS DT (ind, religious)....signal is strong but they have various problems with audio sync and breakup from the TBN network.

I highly doubt stations will carry cable channels on their digital feed due to the fact that the cable networks get paid for being carried on cable, money they wouldn't get being shown over the air. It would certainly be nice to have some type of all news service over the air though; I wish ABC NewsNow hadn't become a broadband service.

WNEG is considered by the FCC to be a "satellite" of WSPA, and as such was not required to put their digital signal on the air until next year. I think they're in the process of building it out though.

- Trip

You just have to rub it in don't ya!

Naaaaaaaah, he just made room for it by digging up the hill and cutting down 'em few trees...:rolleyes:

Yep, Charter switched WHNS back to HD and DT 21.2 on 786 and 246, respectively. Thanks for the heads up, GVLSandlapper.

It would certainly be nice to have some type of all news service over the air though; I wish ABC NewsNow hadn't become a broadband service.


Charter must be streaming it from the Internet, then. It's currently airing on the Digital Tier on Channel 124.

Charter must be streaming it from the Internet, then. It's currently airing on the Digital Tier on Channel 124.

Really? That's news to me, I had heard way back in 2004 that NewsNow was being pulled off of subchannels to be made into a broadband service. Guess that changed.

- Trip

Regarding OTA reception issues..

I also noticed the large swing on the signal strength meter for WLOS DT 56 (abc)from Ashville NC. While WUNF DT (pbs)has a steady but a bit less strength, both come from within a few miles of eachother correct?

WMYA DT is located right near my location yet I have noticed some poor signal levels from them as well, as mentioned by another poster.

Regarding WHNS DT (fox) has anyone else noticed the lack of black level from the station. It seems like the contrast range is compressed . I haven't noticed a problem on any other station like this. But then again their analog signal used to have fine contrast levels ( black and white levels) on their local live programs but very low white levels on the satellite feeds from fox tv and other sources like Raycom sports.

Concerning WYFF....they need to do something about their signal as well, they are just not making it consistantly into the Anderson area. Maybe they need to install a temporary dt here in this area. Until their permenant set up is ready in 2010?
As an aside I recently e mailed WYFF and asked about them carrying MSNBC on sub channel 4.3. Received a short and somewhat curt reply indicating that they had no plans to carry anything other than NBC and Weather plus. Heck MSNBC is a sister network that would probably clear them to have the channel for free since they are not carried widely on cable except on Charter.


WLOS-DT is at the same tower location as WUNF-DT.

Is WMYA-DT airing any HD at present? There was talk of that capability arriving around the end of March by WLOS' GM if the necessary equipment arrived on time and there were no issues to resolve during/after the install.

WHNS-DT does have that issue of black and white level contrast. I've noticed it when I watch their syndicated programs (i.e. "Two and a Half Men", "Seinfeld", etc.) and when they aired the SEC Tourney.

I highly doubt that WYFF-DT would air a simulcast of MSNBC on one of their subchannels, especially since Charter, D* and E* carry the channel. Besides, we don't need another subchannel to degrade WYFF's HD by any amount.

<snip>....
As an aside I recently e mailed WYFF and asked about them carrying MSNBC on sub channel 4.3. Received a short and somewhat curt reply indicating that they had no plans to carry anything other than NBC and Weather plus. Heck MSNBC is a sister network that would probably clear them to have the channel for free since they are not carried widely on cable except on Charter....<snip>

I wouldn't encourage the local net's to further degrade their primary signal by adding more sub-channels anyway. This especially holds for the 1080i nets (CBS and NBC). 1080i requires most of the 19.2 Mb/s to maintain good quality without macroblocking.

Besides, as has been mentioned, MSNBC is a cable channel, so I'm assuming the revenue model depends on subscriber fees in addition to advertiser revenue. Giving it away probably wouldn't work.

-c

I also wish MSNBC was available on northland cable. I have requested it many times, but they don't listen. Hopefully they will get the picture soon...o well, at least I can see it this summer while I am home.

Naaaaaaaah, he just made room for it by digging up the hill and cutting down 'em few trees...:rolleyes:

Yep, Charter switched WHNS back to HD and DT 21.2 on 786 and 246, respectively. Thanks for the heads up, GVLSandlapper.

Nothing stands in the way of my HD signal. Trees/hills/dogs/cats/small children...............nothing.

Concerning MSNBC. I understand where people are coming from with not wanting to degrade the HD content. However they could do what WUNF does when they are airing HD signals on the primary channel. Just stop broadcasting MSNBC during the hours when HD content is aired.

The only cable carrier that seems to have the network is Charter, almost none of the smaller system servicing the WYFF market carry it. I think that MSNBC WOULD clear it because it would get them additional exposure, which frankly they really need nationwide.

Any other thoughts on the black and white level problems at WHNS DT? Anyone brave enough to contact their chief engineer about it?

As for World News Now. I have seen other stations listing it in their dt subchannel line up. I think WABC DT in NYC carries it as well.

Concerning MSNBC. I understand where people are coming from with not wanting to degrade the HD content. However they could do what WUNF does when they are airing HD signals on the primary channel. Just stop broadcasting MSNBC during the hours when HD content is aired.

The only cable carrier that seems to have the network is Charter, almost none of the smaller system servicing the WYFF market carry it. I think that MSNBC WOULD clear it because it would get them additional exposure, which frankly they really need nationwide.

Any other thoughts on the black and white level problems at WHNS DT? Anyone brave enough to contact their chief engineer about it?

As for World News Now. I have seen other stations listing it in their dt subchannel line up. I think WABC DT in NYC carries it as well.

In the short-term that sounds reasonable. With WYFF hopefully going HD with their Local News during the next year or so, an equipment upgrade on the network's end to hopefully air "Today" in HD during all airings (not just Weekdays 7 a.m.-9 a.m.) and select syndicated programming such as "Oprah" and "ET" going HD on Sept. 8th (not sure if WYFF will air it as such), it might be counterproductive in the long-term.

On a side note, I do wish WUNF would pull a "WUNC/TWC Raleigh-Durham" and provide Charter with their HD programming full-time (not just 8 p.m.-11 p.m.).

WHNS' Chief Engineer is Jim Barnes and can be reached at jim**(dot)**barnes**(at)**foxcarolina**(dot)**com .

My OTA PBS HD (ch 29.3) signal has been rock solid for as long as I can remember. But the past week or so I see a couple of thin horizontal streaks of noise quickly flash across the picture a couple of times per minute. Anyone else experiencing anything like this. Wondering if this could be the broadcast itself, or some new interference at my location.

Is WMYA-DT airing any HD at present? There was talk of that capability arriving around the end of March by WLOS' GM if the necessary equipment arrived on time and there were no issues to resolve during/after the install.

WMYA used to carry MyNetworkTV programs in HD (like those telenovelas last year) from a network feed. MyNet carries few HD programs now, but during the past several months I've run across a couple of MyNet specials that were in HD on WMYT (Charlotte) but not on WMYA, and wondering why.

I think the new equipment is for relaying syndicated programming such as live sports from Raycom and perhaps "taped" material such as talk shows, sitcom reruns, etc.

WMYA used to carry MyNetworkTV programs in HD (like those telenovelas last year) from a network feed. MyNet carries few HD programs now, but during the past several months I've run across a couple of MyNet specials that were in HD on WMYT (Charlotte) but not on WMYA, and wondering why.

I think the new equipment is for relaying syndicated programming such as live sports from Raycom and perhaps "taped" material such as talk shows, sitcom reruns, etc.

Thanks for the heads up on WMYA's HD airings, jtbell. I failed to include this when I submitted my "Easter Bunny" note back in March about stations' Local HD Plans. I did get the following response from WLOS/WMYA's GM back then regarding WMYA in HD:

"On the question of Charter and HD carriage of WMYA----they won't be able to carry non-network signals in high def until we are able to broadcast it. Once that happens, I trust that they will re-transmit WMYA in HD for everything that we carry in HD."

Let's hope things start hopping on the Local HD Pike for all of the local stations soon.

Noticed that channel 21 had no HD signal last night (Monday 5/5) and it seems to be out tonight as well. Other channels are coming in fine. Anyone else having trouble? (The analog signal is okay.)

Noticed that channel 21 had no HD signal last night (Monday 5/5) and it seems to be out tonight as well. Other channels are coming in fine. Anyone else having trouble? (The analog signal is okay.)

In contrast to late last week, I'm getting the HD signal via Charter with no problems.

Noticed that channel 21 had no HD signal last night (Monday 5/5) and it seems to be out tonight as well. Other channels are coming in fine. Anyone else having trouble? (The analog signal is okay.)

I, too, did not receive a hd ota signal from WHNS last night. Tonight, however, it was good.

I hear WHNS is having problems with their PSIP generator.

FCC Sets Wilmington, N.C., as Digital-Switch Test Market, Sources Say

By Michele Greppi and Ira Teinowitz

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin is set to announce Thursday that it will run a test of the switch to digital broadcasting signals in Wilmington, N.C., the smallest TV market in the Tarheel state, sources said.

The congressionally mandated national switch to digital takes place Feb. 19. The FCC didn't return multiple calls seeking comment.

The test in North Carolina, Mr. Martin's home state, is likely to take place before the November sweeps ratings period. If things do not go smoothly during the trial run, it could affect stations’ revenues during one of the months used to set advertising rates for the next fiscal quarter.

The Wilmington market, served by affiliates of all the major networks, is the 135th largest measured by Nielsen Media Research, which says 179,760 of the 182,500 homes in the area have televisions.

WWAY-TV, owned by Morris Multimedia, is the ABC affiliate in the area. NBC-affiliated WECT-TV and Fox-affiliated WSFX-TV are owned by Raycom Media. WILM-TV is the CBS affiliate owned by Capitol Broadcasting Co. WMYW-LP is the MyNetworkTV affiliate, and The CW has a cable-only affiliate. The market gets its public broadcast signal from WUNJ-TV.

Local broadcasters did not return calls seeking comment.

FCC Commissioner Michael Copps has been pushing for a test in a small market that met certain criteria, including that all broadcast stations’ digital signals already are on the air on the same channels where they will be found when the official digital switch takes place.

The idea is to learn, among other things, how many TV homes may be unprepared for the transition, which will require viewers to have digital sets, boxes that can convert digital broadcast signals to analog on older sets, or delivery of programs by cable or satellite services.

The sources who confirmed the announcement of the test weren't able to say when it may begin. However, the trial run will be preceded by a big education campaign by local stations about converter boxes and the availability of coupons worth $40 toward the purchase of the converters through local retailers.

Throughout the country, some 1 million coupons have been used as part of the National Telecommunications & Information Administration’s converter box coupon program, according to recent information.

http://www.tvweek.com/news/2008/05/sources_fcc_sets_wilmington_nc.php

Wilmington DTV Switch: Sept. 8, 2008
135th Largest DMA To Become First Transition Test Market
By Ted Hearn -- Multichannel News, 5/7/2008 7:09:00 PM
Washington—Wilmington, N.C., will become the first market to switch to all-digital broadcasting on Sept.8, 2008, Wilmington Mayor Bill Saffo said Wednesday.

“We'll be the first in the country,” Saffo said, adding that he was “honored” to have his city take the lead.

The test is slated to begin Monday Sept. 8, a week after Labor Day.

The Federal Communications Commission is planning to announce Wednesday afternoon that Wilmington will be selected as the TV transition test market, an FCC official said.

By law, all full-power TV stations need to terminate analog service on Feb. 17, 2009. FCC Chairman Kevin Martin has been coming under pressure to find a test market to determine the level of preparation in a typical market prior to the national switch over.

FCC Democrat Michael Copps has been nagging Martin for months to find a test market.

"This is very good news for the DTV transition. Real-world experience is an extremely important step—although only one of many—that will help minimize consumer disruption next February. Broadway shows open on the road to work out the kinks before opening night. The DTV transition deserves no less," Copps said in a statement Wednesday night.

Saffo said he is optimistic that his city will be ready to conduct a smooth transition soon after Labor Day.

“The FCC has assured me that they are going to come down here and do everything in their power ...to make this as smooth as possible,” Saffo said. “We look at the FCC as being a partner in this.”

According to Nielsen Media Research, Wilmington is the 135th largest TV market out of 210.

Saffo said he was well-aware that the eyes of the nation would be following DTV developments in his coastal city.

“It's a huge opportunity for Wilmington to pave the way for the rest of country,” Saffo said. “I am looking forward to working with [the FCC] and honored to be the first community in the country to do it.”

Nielsen has cable and satellite TV providers serving 92.6% of Wilmington area households, leaving just 7.4% relying exclusively on free TV. Nationally, the broadcast-only audience ranges from 11% to 19% of households, depending on source of the data.

According to the Center for Public Integrity's media ownership database, the Wilmington market has 10 licensed TV stations.

The city of Wilmington, situated close to the Atlantic shoreline, has a population of 91,137, according to U.S. Census Bureau data for 2003.

Analog TV sets that rely exclusively on free over the air broadcasting will cease to function unless they are adapted to display digital signals.

The federal government plans to spend up to $1.5 billion to subsidize consumer acquisition of digital-to-analog converter boxes. The program allows each household to receive two $40 coupons to defray converter box costs. On Tuesday, the U.S. Commerce Department announced that 1 million coupons had been used since people began applying on Jan. 1.

Saffo said that ensuring broadcast-only viewers were not left behind was essential.

“Obviously we have some concerns,” Saffo said. “Our concern is at those folks who do not have a converter box are going to be given those converter boxes ...”

In theory, cable and satellite TV homes won't be affected by the transition unless they have analog TV sets not connected to one of the pay TV services.

FCC Confirms Wilmington as Digital Test Market
By Ira Teinowitz and Julieanne Smolinski

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin Martin has formally selected Wilmington, N.C., as the test market for the digital transition.

“It will help us spot issues that we need to address throughout the country,” Mr. Martin told a Washington news conference today, surrounded by the mayor of Wilmington and local broadcasters.

The announcement confirms TVWeek’s report that Mr. Martin would select his home state for the dry run of the congressionally mandated switch.

Nielsen ranks the Wilmington market as the 135th largest of major-network affiliates. Beginning at noon on Sept. 8, WWAY-TV (ABC), WSFX-TV (Fox), WECT-TV (NBC), WILM-LP (CBS), and W51CW (Trinity Broadcasting) will broadcast only digital signals to their viewers in the five North Carolina counties that make up the market.

Wilmington PBS station WUNJ-TV will continue to broadcast in both analog and digital until the national transition, set for Feb. 17. The station is part of UNC-TV, the state’s public TV network; it said today that it was concerned that turning off its analog signal in the midst of hurricane season might deprive viewers of needed emergency information.

Mr. Martin said today that the FCC would have full-time staff in Wilmington through the transition to speak and attend events ranging from the riverfront festival to the blueberry festival. He said the agency would prepare public service announcements, outdoor billboards and posters promoting the transition.

Wilmington was chosen for the test run because all of its commercial stations have completed construction of their DTV channels and are operating at full post-transition power.

Jonathan Collegio, the National Association of Broadcasters' VP of the digital television transition, said in a statement: “The FCC-initiated experiment in Wilmington can shed light on a number of issues surrounding the national DTV transition in February 2009. The results must be objectively reviewed to determine how or whether the findings can be applied nationwide. NAB will be fully supportive of our local television broadcasters in this effort."

FCC Commissioner Michael Copps, who had been to England to watch its switchover, had pushed for a test before the national switch. Today he praised both the FCC and local broadcasters for voluntarily agreeing to it.

“It’s not risk-free. It’s not problem-free,” he said.

While Mr. Martin suggested Wilmington’s switch would offer valuable information, Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein said he was concerned that Wilmington would be more a showplace than a real test. The kind of effort the agency is putting into making sure Wilmington goes right is unlikely to be there when the rest of the country switches.

“The question is whether it is a real test or a staged dress rehearsal,” said Mr. Adelstein.

Broadcasters said they expected some disruption in advertising and viewership during the switch, but that it would have occurred anyway in February.

“Whether we do the transition in September or we do it in February, we are going to have some disruption to work through,” said Jim Goodmon, president-CEO of Capitol Broadcasting, which owns WILM-LP.

“If you don’t know the transition is coming in Wilmington, you won’t be breathing. But I don’t know how we are not going to have a disruption. We are going to have a disruption. We are going to make it as small as we can.”

Paul McTear, president-CEO of Raycom Media, which owns WECT-TV, said the high level of cable and satellite households in the market—93%—together with the number that already have requested discount coupons for converter boxes, meant few households would lose TV service. He predicted the biggest problem would be with second sets.

http://www.tvweek.com/news/2008/05/fcc_confirms_wilmington_as_dig.php

My OTA PBS HD (ch 29.3) signal has been rock solid for as long as I can remember. But the past week or so I see a couple of thin horizontal streaks of noise quickly flash across the picture a couple of times per minute. Anyone else experiencing anything like this. Wondering if this could be the broadcast itself, or some new interference at my location.

Bump...

Anybody having problems? Anybody NOT having problems?

We believe we know what the issue is with WNTV-D 29-3. Hopefully it will be resolved early next week.

-Shaun
__________________
Shaun Bennett
Engineering, SCETV

I checked in this Message Board and via the "Search Thread" function and didn't see this one mentioned. A February 13th article from Broadcasting and Cable has details on WHNS' inclusion in a 2-year deal between Meredith Corp. and Panasonic. Under the terms of the agreement, Meredith's 13 TV Stations, WHNS included, will receive P2 HD solid-state camcorders for HD Local News Production.

(Source: http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6532388.html )

I live in Charleston but I'm up here at my parents house in Piedmont trying to figure out how to get the local channels in HD. Dish's website says they are available in the 5190's channel range.

My parents have a 722 DVR and they subscribe to the HD package. They've been using an antenna to receive the local channels OTA, but there are a few channels that we would like to get off the satellite due to reception issues. When I pull up the channel guide on the 722 it does not even show those channels.

Are the locals really available and how do we get them?

Thanks!!

Attention DirecTV subs:
With the download of the latest software update from DirecTV about two weeks ago, I have occasional short bursts of stuttering in the audio which is sometimes followed by very brief video instability. This has been observed on both LIL and other HD channels. DirecTV refuses to acknowledge it has a problem, but has agreed to send a service tech next week to review the recordings of the events. Anyone else having the problem?
It took eleven months to get DirecTV to correct the captions problems for WHNS and WLOS, which was finally solved by corrections at the uplink facility, and I hope not to wait that long to solve the audio interruptions!

I live in Charleston but I'm up here at my parents house in Piedmont trying to figure out how to get the local channels in HD. Dish's website says they are available in the 5190's channel range.

My parents have a 722 DVR and they subscribe to the HD package. They've been using an antenna to receive the local channels OTA, but there are a few channels that we would like to get off the satellite due to reception issues. When I pull up the channel guide on the 722 it does not even show those channels.

Are the locals really available and how do we get them?

Thanks!!

I don't have DISH so I may be wrong here but I think those locals just went up. Perhaps a reboot of the box would reset the box and it would see the new channels?? Also, I know with DirecTV they use something like a 5 LNB dish for locals. Perhaps DISH does the same thing and if your parents don't have that dish they won't receive the locals.

WESTERN CAROLINAS HDTV VIEWERS:

THIS THREAD “RESTARTS” THE WESTERN NORTH CAROLINAS HDTV THREAD, AND INCLUDES A SUMMARY OF PERTINENT INFORMATION FROM THAT FORUM.
THIS SHOULD MAKE SCANNING FOR INFORMATION EASIER.
There are several members contributing to information seen here, but there is no one specific person “in charge.” We encourage all who visit our site to acknowledge their presence and to summarize their HDTV / DT experience. Most station information is edited from emailed responses from station personnel.
Jerry Birdwell, Contributor
I am new to avs forums and this may have been already discussed however I am quite disappointed in the audio sync problem with WLOS digital 13-2 and 13-3. I am located 2 miles below GSP airport and am using a 17 element yagi with Channel Master Spartan series pre amp. Even the primary 13-1 is breaking up. This baffles me since the UNC channels come in rock solid and they are the same distance. I believe WLOS is at reduced power or have a serious issue with their antenna.

I believe they need a dish pointed at the 61.5 orbital location for the local HD, either a Dish 1000 or a second dish pointed to 61.5

We believe we know what the issue is with WNTV-D 29-3. Hopefully it will be resolved early next week.

-Shaun
__________________
Shaun Bennett
Engineering, SCETV

Thanks for the update.

We believe we know what the issue is with WNTV-D 29-3. Hopefully it will be resolved early next week.

-Shaun
__________________
Shaun Bennett
Engineering, SCETV

Do you know if WNTV channel 8 on Charter will ever be fixed? Its going on 3 months that this channel is unwatchable because of the flickering. There are no issues with it OTA, only through Charter.

Do you know if WNTV channel 8 on Charter will ever be fixed? Its going on 3 months that this channel is unwatchable because of the flickering. There are no issues with it OTA, only through Charter.

That may be something very local; I'm in Greenville county "Greer", the end of South Batesville; it is (and I believe always has been) clear as a bell here.

George

Do you know if WNTV channel 8 on Charter will ever be fixed? Its going on 3 months that this channel is unwatchable because of the flickering. There are no issues with it OTA, only through Charter.

Sorry it took me so long to get back to you, I have been out of the office. I am going to forward your problem to our engineer that liaisons with the numerous cable companies around the state.

For any problems with our broadcasts, OTA or with cable, please feel free to contact us at our customer service email (csr@scetv.org). Most of the cable companies work well with us and we are able to resolve the issues relatively quickly. Also, you can message me anytime. I cannot guarantee that I can answer your question or fix the problem, but at least I can get it to someone that can.

-Shaun

That may be something very local; I'm in Greenville county "Greer", the end of South Batesville; it is (and I believe always has been) clear as a bell here.

George

The picture is clear for me as well. However, depending on the program, the flicker is beyond annoying. During some programing, you can't notice it too much, but in others it is just unwatchable.

My Charter VOD has been missing all HD offerings for a solid two weeks now. I recently called customer service to inquire about this, and after about 45 minutes the tech was able to comprehend my question. She eventually found an intra-office memo that said the HD selections of VOD would be out of service until as late as June 1, but also that the outage was necessary to add more HD capacity.

I don't know if this extra capacity refers only to VOD, or if Charter is planning to roll out additional HD channels in our area...one can only hope.

My Charter VOD has been missing all HD offerings for a solid two weeks now. I recently called customer service to inquire about this, and after about 45 minutes the tech was able to comprehend my question. She eventually found an intra-office memo that said the HD selections of VOD would be out of service until as late as June 1, but also that the outage was necessary to add more HD capacity.

I don't know if this extra capacity refers only to VOD, or if Charter is planning to roll out additional HD channels in our area...one can only hope.

The 'Charlotte, NC - Charter' Message Board has had updates on this over the past month or so ( http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=549252 ). The explanation given from that Message Board for the lack of HD VOD by CharterJames, who works in Charter's Hickory Office, is due to technical issues that began in late March. Asheville was the first system to have HD VOD temporarily removed, then the Hickory System. It's been far longer than two weeks in most of the area. :mad: On the same Message Board, it's rumored that a new round of HD might arrive in late June/early July. :rolleyes:

Keep a check of your mail on your Charter Monthly Bill or for a special flyer announcing the new round of HD channels (at least a 30 day notice should be given). I got my bill online this morning and there was no mention of additional HD, so it won't be any earlier than June 16th. :( Anyone that get's a flyer or note on their bill, post here so that we can celebrate...

Does anyone have an updated QAM list for Charter-Greenville area? Please?

Thanks.

Does anyone have an updated QAM list for Charter-Greenville area? Please?

I _ASSUME_ you are looking for those in the clear. Why not post what you have and see if anyone can extend it? Mine follow; they are on quick select, and I may be slightly mis-remembering.

77.2, WLOS
86.8, SCTV SD
90.x, weather and music
103.1, WYFF
103.2, WSPA
103.3, PBS HD
104.1, Fox

104.?, Fox movie channel; now that I've posted it, Charter will fix that ...

Did anyone notice that WLOS presented their HD Crawl for the DTV Conversion during tonight's Wheel of Fortune?

Did anyone notice that WLOS presented their HD Crawl for the DTV Conversion during tonight's Wheel of Fortune?

They've been doing that for a while now. They do it during Jeopardy sometimes as well.

Attention DirecTV subs:
With the download of the latest software update from DirecTV about two weeks ago, I have occasional short bursts of stuttering in the audio which is sometimes followed by very brief video instability. This has been observed on both LIL and other HD channels. DirecTV refuses to acknowledge it has a problem, but has agreed to send a service tech next week to review the recordings of the events. Anyone else having the problem?
It took eleven months to get DirecTV to correct the captions problems for WHNS and WLOS, which was finally solved by corrections at the uplink facility, and I hope not to wait that long to solve the audio interruptions!

I've been having the same issues as well, mainly with local HD channels. Tech replaced the LNB, but it still happens. Let me know what your tech finds out.

Attention DirecTV subs:
With the download of the latest software update from DirecTV about two weeks ago, I have occasional short bursts of stuttering in the audio which is sometimes followed by very brief video instability. This has been observed on both LIL and other HD channels. DirecTV refuses to acknowledge it has a problem, but has agreed to send a service tech next week to review the recordings of the events. Anyone else having the problem?


Jerry, are you running the national release? I'm running last week's CE on my HR20 and haven't noticed any problems. There are major issues with this week's CE though. It might be worth a try to download the new one this weekend. If you've never downloaded a CE, you might have to rebuild your favorites list. There are other risks, but you can always go back to the national release if you have problems. Check out the CE forum on dbstalk for details. As a side note, I had major problems several months ago with the LNBs on my AT9 dish. Since I replaced it with a Slimline, it's been pretty solid. At that time I got a new dish cheap from ebay and did all the work myself since D* wanted to charge me. Even though my AT9 was fairly new and obviously defective, they said it only had a 90 day warranty, which had expired. You're lucky they're willing to do anything.

They've been doing that for a while now. They do it during Jeopardy sometimes as well.

And running their weather crawls the same way (at least during their 5 p.m. News).

Update at 5:30 p.m.: Their DD5.1 has come through during some of their local commercials (never noticed it before now).

What's your signal strength on the 129 bird? Mine's 37 with the new signal strength measuring software with an unobstructed view of the satellite. Rain fade is a problem.

Jerry, are you running the national release? I'm running last week's CE on my HR20 and haven't noticed any problems. There are major issues with this week's CE though. It might be worth a try to download the new one this weekend. If you've never downloaded a CE, you might have to rebuild your favorites list. There are other risks, but you can always go back to the national release if you have problems. Check out the CE forum on dbstalk for details. As a side note, I had major problems several months ago with the LNBs on my AT9 dish. Since I replaced it with a Slimline, it's been pretty solid. At that time I got a new dish cheap from ebay and did all the work myself since D* wanted to charge me. Even though my AT9 was fairly new and obviously defective, they said it only had a 90 day warranty, which had expired. You're lucky they're willing to do anything.

Yes, I am running the national software release.
As with my captions problems with the two LIL 720p stations (ABC & Fox), the audio stutter seems to be confined to LIL stations (or station,) especially ABC.) The captions problem was in the software at the region's uplink center.
Thanks for suggestion.

I've been having the same issues as well, mainly with local HD channels. Tech replaced the LNB, but it still happens. Let me know what your tech finds out.

The techs were baffled but decided to replace the HR20-700 with a -100. The audio problem is now more frequent, at least a half dozen times per hour. I now think the problem is back to only the LIL 720p stations, ABC and FOX, but ABC affiliate is the worst. As with the captions problem recently corrected by software modification at the upllink, I am pushing for DirecTV to check this aspect again.
(Meanwhile, I have requested the -700 be returned to me to replace the -100 which has very poor performing OTA tuners. (I lost the Ch9 HD signal from Greenville, as an example.

What's your signal strength on the 129 bird? Mine's 37 with the new signal strength measuring software with an unobstructed view of the satellite. Rain fade is a problem.

I can check for you tonight when I get home and let you know. I don't show a 129 satellite. I have 61.5, 119, 110.

Has anyone noticed some type of Braves channel on Charter 75? Does anyone know the name/id of this channel? Not sure why we need another Braves channel. You would think Charter could work on adding some better content instead of 2 HD channels and now a analog channel devoted solely to the Braves.

Has anyone noticed some type of Braves channel on Charter 75? Does anyone know the name/id of this channel? Not sure why we need another Braves channel. You would think Charter could work on adding some better content instead of 2 HD channels and now a analog channel devoted solely to the Braves.

Channel 72 in Asheville...it's the SD Feed of the Braves' Games on Peachtree TV (ID'd as WPCHD on the EPG). As a matter of fact, there's a graphics board announcing that tonight's Braves' Game will be airing Tonight at 7pm ET/6pmCT brought to you by Comcast and Charter Communications. It sounds like the Audio Feed of CSS (ch. 77) is on the channel, as well.

ReelzChannel has been appearing simultaneously on Charter Asheville channels 156 and 173 for at least a few weeks now.

Channel 72 in Asheville...it's the SD Feed of the Braves' Games on Peachtree TV (ID'd as WPCHD on the EPG). As a matter of fact, there's a graphics board announcing that tonight's Braves' Game will be airing Tonight at 7pm ET/6pmCT brought to you by Comcast and Charter Communications. It sounds like the Audio Feed of CSS (ch. 77) is on the channel, as well.

We have been getting PeachTree games on 58 (CSS) for some time now. I wonder if all of the games are now going to move to the dedicated peachtree channel or only some. The guide is still showing games on CSS too.

We believe we know what the issue is with WNTV-D 29-3. Hopefully it will be resolved early next week.

Shaun,

Any news on this?

Thanks

We have been getting PeachTree games on 58 (CSS) for some time now. I wonder if all of the games are now going to move to the dedicated peachtree channel or only some. The guide is still showing games on CSS too.

We did have the SEC Tourney on CSS' regular channel last night. I wonder if they were ensuring that viewers could have a choice between the two and had Channel 72 as the alternate feed.

Update at 1:33 p.m.: Channel 72 is no longer on the EPG.

Update at 1:33 p.m.: Channel 72 is no longer on the EPG.

75 in Greenville was removed from the CableCard mappings as well. So perhaps it was temporary.

I can check for you tonight when I get home and let you know. I don't show a 129 satellite. I have 62.5, 119, 110.

129 is an HD bird, but so is 61.5. Are you using 61.5 and how strong is its signal? Are you using just one dish?

This Week with George Steph. seems to be in HD this morning on WLOS. I wonder if this means that they now have the ability to record and play back HD content? If so, Jeopardy and Wheel should be HD soon.

Shaun,

Any news on this?

Thanks
Most of our people have been out last week producing a road show so I have not heard about any updates on WNTV-D 29-3. I will bring it up again at our engineering meeting on Monday.

If I remember correctly, there are black horizontal streaking lines though the video most likely caused by a timing issue with some equipment we have inline that inserts our bug. We might be waiting on a tri-level sync generator to correct it. I will follow up on it with the people that work with this equipment.

-Shaun

This Week with George Steph. seems to be in HD this morning on WLOS. I wonder if this means that they now have the ability to record and play back HD content? If so, Jeopardy and Wheel should be HD soon.

I was wondering when they were going to finally begin airing "This Week" in HD. This looks like another piece of evidence that WLOS will begin airing syndicated programming in HD sooner rather than later. In addition, WLOS should be following at least a few of their sister stations in beginning to air their local news in HD within the next couple of months.

129 is an HD bird, but so is 61.5. Are you using 61.5 and how strong is its signal? Are you using just one dish?

I checked again and the sats I see under System Info are 61.5, 119 and 110. I have 2 dishes, just got the one for 61.5 for local HD. Should I be showing another sat at 129?

Wheel of Fortune is in HD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Come on Jeopardy!!!

I checked again and the sats I see under System Info are 61.5, 119 and 110. I have 2 dishes, just got the one for 61.5 for local HD. Should I be showing another sat at 129?

Check for a PM.

Jeopardy is in HD, as well! It's now time for YFF, SPA and HNS to ante up on recorded syndication HD.

Wheel of Fortune is in HD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Come on Jeopardy!!!

http://smiliesftw.com/x/bowdown.gif (http://smiliesftw.com)

It's now time for YFF, SPA and HNS to ante up on recorded syndication HD.

The programming has to become available in HD before you can broadcast it in HD.

The programming has to become available in HD before you can broadcast it in HD.

The stations need the proper equipment to record and broadcast that programming in HD, as well. Sept. 8th is a magic day for the syndicated HD Floodgates to open a little bit more when Oprah, Ellen, ET and The Insider all begin airing in HD. Whether the local stations here choose to air them in HD is dependent on the equipment that's available to them.

The stations need the proper equipment to record and broadcast that programming in HD, as well. Sept. 8th is a magic day for the syndicated HD Floodgates to open a little bit more when Oprah, Ellen, ET and The Insider all begin airing in HD. Whether the local stations here choose to air them in HD is dependent on the equipment that's available to them.

You still only have about 10 to 15% of all syndicated programming available in HD. At my station NONE of our syndicated programming is available to us in HD.

You still only have about 10 to 15% of all syndicated programming available in HD. At my station NONE of our syndicated programming is available to us in HD.


I'm fully aware of that and your previous insights. I'm sorry that your station has no syndicated programming available in HD and hopefully that'll change in the future. Coming back to the local stations within this DMA, if it's just Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy! that's currently being offered in true HD, so be it. I'll take it! It's more recorded syndicated HD content than had been available before yesterday which was nada. It'll hopefully be a catalyst for the competition to ante up when the capability and syndicated HD programming options allow. I guess it's just my viewing the glass half-full!

Jeopardy is in HD, as well!

So we've finally caught up with Columbia and Charlotte. :D This will give me something to look forward to when I get home from this trip I'm on.

First post on AVS. I am new to Greenville, SC. Have a house in a new development. Cable is being installed in the neighborhood and I hope to be able to hook-up in the coming months. :)

I have searched the forum and read some of this thread, not all 170 pages, and haven’t found the answer to my question.:confused:

Can someone tell me which, if any, clear QAM channels Charter will pass along with a enhanced basic cable service, 70ish channels?:D

Thanks for your help!

Can someone tell me which, if any, clear QAM channels Charter will pass along with a enhanced basic cable service, 70ish channels?:DThe locals -- ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and PBS.

The locals -- ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and PBS.

Also, Music Choice channels, and the local Fox/CBS/NBC weather subchannels. UHD use to be unencrypted too but I haven't checked in a while.

I have noticed that WMYA DT has a really poor signal unwatchable. All other stations nearby are fine...Anyone?

First post on AVS. I am new to Greenville, SC. Have a house in a new development. Cable is being installed in the neighborhood and I hope to be able to hook-up in the coming months. :)

I have searched the forum and read some of this thread, not all 170 pages, and haven’t found the answer to my question.:confused:

Can someone tell me which, if any, clear QAM channels Charter will pass along with a enhanced basic cable service, 70ish channels?:D

Thanks for your help!

You can find the QAM channel numbers for the locals on one page back.

Update from yesterday...

Sent an e mail to WLOS (sister station responsible for WMYA DT operations ) Chief Engineer and described the problem with the OTA reception...Noted the strange "up one second, down the next" of signal strength followed by a very weak signal for maybe 30 seconds after , that pattern repeated itself... This all happened when conditions for reception were optimal (calm winds, clear skys) over the broadcast area. Also indicated that in the same reception conditions that other nearby stations were showing a fairly stready signal strength.

I also noticed this similar situation on WLOS even though their transmitter is supposedly out of range of Anderson,SC...That odd signal variation ...strangely WUNF DT has their antenna mounted on the same tower as WLOS..WUNF signal is nearly perfect while WLOS is nearly unwatchable most of the time...again very interesting.

With regards to WMYA DT this makes the picture 95% unwatchable with almost 100% complete audio drop outs although the video seems to remain 95% intact. Very odd indeed.

Now awaiting some sort of reply from their Chief Engineer at WLOS...will update if any new info is collected.

You should be posting your problems with WMYA-DT reception to the Greenville, SC thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=322947. Or post it to the HDTV Technical forum if you have questions about reception and what you can do to improve your antenna setup. This forum is not for threads about a specific station problem.

Topics merged.

Thanks for redirecting the post I made Ken...

The WMYA and WLOS issues are odd. I am almost completely certain that the problems are on their end at their transmitter and or antenna sites and not CECB or antenna related because I have observed this reception at several homes that are located 20 or 30 miles apart with different topography and all have excellent outdoor antennas .... Indeed the other stations are received perfectly with minimal signal fade or strange pattern effects....

dubber, check you PM. I sent you Jack Connors' e-mail if the Chief Engineer route doesn't pan out. Both are usually quick to respond to viewer inquiries. Hope this helps!

Thanks popweaverhdtv!

Everything I have seen, and I do know a bit about the technical side of broadcasting, seems to point to issues at their sites.

WOW! What a response to my first post!:)

Thanks to one and all.

John

Why is the Braves game blacked out on the BravesHD channel? :confused:

It's on 798...or it was, at least.

It's on 798...or it was, at least.

Yeah, I figured that out later, but in my Tivo guidedata it was on the wrong channel.

Anyone know what is going on at WYFF this morning? While watching Today this morning the center channel cut out, then the encoding started jumping between 2 channel and 5 channel DD and HD to SD and back, so someone must have noticed it and tried to fix it but didnt have any luck. Pehaps they will have it fixed shortly.

Yeah, I figured that out later, but in my Tivo guidedata it was on the wrong channel.

Its because the TiVo/Tribune guide data is all screwed up. 772 is listed as BRAVESHD but its really on 798. 772 should be CSS2HD. Also 115 is listed as LOOR15.

Thanks popweaverhdtv!

Everything I have seen, and I do know a bit about the technical side of broadcasting, seems to point to issues at their sites.

Regarding 13 WLOS, did you get any answers from them? I constantly notice a jittering/pause (very quick mind you) in the broadcast every day. It does not happen with other OTA HD channels, just WLOS. And I am located right in Asheville.

Please reply, I hate SD:)

Anyone know what happened at WYFF this afternoon, I called, but they were no able to provide any details other than something had died. SD is okay but the HD has disappeared on DirecTV and OTA.

Anyone know what happened at WYFF this afternoon, I called, but they were no able to provide any details other than something had died. SD is okay but the HD has disappeared on DirecTV and OTA.

Hmmm.....WYFF HD is airing on Charter as of 6:07 p.m. (at least in Western NC).

Hmmm.....WYFF HD is airing on Charter as of 6:07 p.m. (at least in Western NC).

Yep it came back about 4:30 after disappearing for 2 hours earlier. Their signal was dropping in and out the day before so maybe they were making some repairs or upgrades. :confused:

Update from yesterday...

Sent an e mail to WLOS (sister station responsible for WMYA DT operations ) Chief Engineer and described the problem with the OTA reception...Noted the strange "up one second, down the next" of signal strength followed by a very weak signal for maybe 30 seconds after , that pattern repeated itself... This all happened when conditions for reception were optimal (calm winds, clear skys) over the broadcast area. Also indicated that in the same reception conditions that other nearby stations were showing a fairly stready signal strength.

I also noticed this similar situation on WLOS even though their transmitter is supposedly out of range of Anderson,SC...That odd signal variation ...strangely WUNF DT has their antenna mounted on the same tower as WLOS..WUNF signal is nearly perfect while WLOS is nearly unwatchable most of the time...again very interesting.

With regards to WMYA DT this makes the picture 95% unwatchable with almost 100% complete audio drop outs although the video seems to remain 95% intact. Very odd indeed.

Now awaiting some sort of reply from their Chief Engineer at WLOS...will update if any new info is collected.

I live just SW of Morganton, NC, and I have similar OTA issues with WLOS-DT from Mt Pisgah and WMYA-DT from Anderson. I have a Zenith box and when the signal is steady it's about 75% from either transmitter, but it will have momentary urges to drop down to about 20%--very annoying. Part of this may stem from WLOS-DT being so high on the UHF band (57, I think?) and from what I've been told makes it so prone to the wind blowing and/or foliage moving. I am hoping this will improve when they migrate back to VHF 13 in February. However, this shouldn't be the same scenario for WMYA-DT since they are on UHF 14 -- but I am much closer to Mt Pisgah versus Anderson. Or, this could all be because they are owned by Sinclair. A friend of mine in Wilkes County NC can't even get WXLV Winston-Salem and they, too, are owned by Sinclair (Sincliar has a reputation of being cheap -- just sayin'). What makes the least sense about this is that WLOS is my BEST analog signal -- now it's my worst (or least reliable) digital signal -- compared to WYFF, WYCW, and WSPA.

Eric

Glad to hear that I am not the only one that has noticed the strange signal issues and audio/video issues with WMYA and WLOS DTs.

Following my first e mail to WLOS (received no reply), I have noticed that WMYA DT has seemed to smoothed the signal strength out a bit, the "rollercoaster effect" is almost gone entirely and it is a bit more steady, yet it still falters enough to cause significant audio and video dropouts to make viewing the station annoying a significant amount of the time. Again it seems to be an electronic transmitter issue and NOT weather or topography.

I definitely believe that the issues ARE those of the transmitters at WMYA and WLOS DT locations.

I have sent a new e mail to Jack Conner the GM of WLOS in Asheville and I am awaiting a reply. I will update when a reply is received.

One other issue is with WLOS DT 13-2 , which carries simulcast of WMYA DT...it appears that there is a one second audio delay vs the video.

This is the only station that has this issue as well.

When watching WMYA DT the audio and video on both 40-1 and 40-2 are in sync.

Anyone know what happened at WYFF this afternoon, I called, but they were no able to provide any details other than something had died. SD is okay but the HD has disappeared on DirecTV and OTA.

Now, WYFF HD and WYFF Weather Plus are down on Charter on this end. I guess it's cable's turn to experience WYFF's issues...unless it's affecting OTA, as well (can't get Digital OTA from here). At least analog isn't down...gotta have an "Ellen" fix.

Now, WYFF HD and WYFF Weather Plus are down on Charter on this end. I guess it's cable's turn to experience WYFF's issues...unless it's affecting OTA, as well (can't get Digital OTA from here). At least analog isn't down...gotta have an "Ellen" fix.

WYFF HD and WxPlus are back up on Charter AVL as of 5 p.m.

I guess WLOS wants to keep a black bar on the bottom of the screen (Analog and HD). At least they haven't switched from HD to SD during the Belmont Stakes.

With the 129 bird getting weaker, I'd like to try to add 61.5. Am using a Dish 1000 antenna feeding a single VIP211 receiver. Does anyone know where I can find step by step instructions for adding the second dish?

Looking for some local knowledge about translators covering the southern slope of Skyuka Mountain nw of Columbus NC. (I'm helping my in-laws get set up for OTA DTV and I've got to find Oprah for them:-) The FCC database is not very complete wrt the exact channels rebroadcast by translators. Also, there are many stations that haven't finalized their post-transition translator plans. I've got the TVFool and antennaweb data but neither has a complete picture of translators nor digital subchannel co-broadcasts like WLOS-WMYA.
W05AC is on Tryon Peak and the FCC db indicates that they rebroadcast WLOS on analog. My F-i-l says he gets Oprah on ch 11 but I haven't figured wherefrom.
--What analog stations are translated in the immediate area?
--Can someone provide info about DTV translators and co-broadcasts in the area?
--Has anyone heard of WYFF's plans for DTV translators?

Thx for any help, wavemuxer

Looking for some local knowledge about translators covering the southern slope of Skyuka Mountain nw of Columbus NC. (I'm helping my in-laws get set up for OTA DTV and I've got to find Oprah for them:-) The FCC database is not very complete wrt the exact channels rebroadcast by translators. Also, there are many stations that haven't finalized their post-transition translator plans. I've got the TVFool and antennaweb data but neither has a complete picture of translators nor digital subchannel co-broadcasts like WLOS-WMYA.
W05AC is on Tryon Peak and the FCC db indicates that they rebroadcast WLOS on analog. My F-i-l says he gets Oprah on ch 11 but I haven't figured wherefrom.
--What analog stations are translated in the immediate area?
--Can someone provide info about DTV translators and co-broadcasts in the area?
--Has anyone heard of WYFF's plans for DTV translators?

Thx for any help, wavemuxer

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/tvq?city=tryon

I think that's what you're looking for. I don't think anyone other than UNC has DTV plans for their translators yet in your area. Translators don't have to sign off next year when the shutoff occurs.

The only other possibility for them is maybe they're seeing the translators from Bat Cave, though W11AX is owned by WYFF as well...

I'm just an outside observer though; were I in your position I'd wait for someone more local to give an opinion and not rely on my map checking.

- Trip

From the Tx pattern shown for W11AX which provides service to the Lake Lure area, it is highly unlikely anyone can receive any signal from it south of Skyuka Mtn. I am surprised that W11AX is under Tryon's auspices since no one near Tryon should be able to see it either. Is there another W11xx translator near Tryon?
Btw, the fcc database record referenced under city of Tryon incorrectly cites W11AH (which is actually outside of Santa Fe NM) engineering records rather than W11AX.

I think the W11AH license might actually be in Tryon but with incorrect coordinates located in New Mexico. Hearst, the parent company of WYFF, does own a station in New Mexico (KOAT-7) and so there was probably a mixup in the paperwork.

- Trip

I was gone all winter, so I probably missed a lot, but I was shocked to see that WSPA shows its local news and weather in HD, while WYFF, which I thought was the local "leader", does not. Is there a logical explanation for this? However WSPA has not figured it yet to have all sound in Dolby Digital in order to prevent the commercials from blasting people out of their seats.

Has anyone else noticed that Charter has pretty much stopped adding new HD channels?

popweaverhdtv has since it's in his signature and all. :)

No New Full-Time HD on Charter since Halloween 2007 and counting. If an HD channel doesn't get added, does anyone notice?

Look at the channel summary (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1016467) on the HDTV Programming forum for a list of all the channels other Charter markets have that the Greenville DMA won't bother with.

Has anyone else noticed channel 4 HD on Directv has been on and off for the last couple of days? It comes up and says do not contact directv, they are aware of the problem. Anyone know any details of what is going on?

Thanks

Has anyone else noticed channel 4 HD on Directv has been on and off for the last couple of days? It comes up and says do not contact directv, they are aware of the problem. Anyone know any details of what is going on?

Thanks

I called WYFF the other day and there only explination was "that something broke", OTA and satellite & cable HD feeds were down a few times last week.

popweaverhdtv has since it's in his signature and all. :)

Amen, brothers and sisters!!!! The signature will remain that way until more full-time HD is added...7 months, 9 days, 12 hours, 13 minutes, 15 seconds...16 seconds... :(

Seriously, the last word from CharterJames on the "Charlotte, NC - Charter" Message Board at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=549252 is that they're waiting for the word any day now on the next round of HD channel additions. We're now waiting...and waiting...and waiting...

I was gone all winter, so I probably missed a lot, but I was shocked to see that WSPA shows its local news and weather in HD, while WYFF, which I thought was the local "leader", does not. Is there a logical explanation for this? However WSPA has not figured it yet to have all sound in Dolby Digital in order to prevent the commercials from blasting people out of their seats.

Amen!!! I should start an HD Religion! :D WYFF hasn't been the local "leader" for at least a year (before WSPA went HD with Local News). I've e-mailed WSPA numerous times to have them address the blasting of their commercials to no avail. I can't even watch their syndicated programs (Judge Judy, King of Queens, Raymond) on the HD Feed for this reason. Hopefully, WYFF, WLOS and WHNS will learn lessons and not duplicate WSPA's missteps of Stretch-o-vision and DD5.1.

Just a few hints to those of you waiting on new HD from Charter...

1. Charter uses a service called HITS - Headend in the Sky, owned by Comcast. Basically this service means Charter can put up 1 satellite dish at their headend and can receive several channels that HITS has made available to all cable companies. Keep in mind, this service is only there to save cable companies lots and lots of money on having to purchase satellite dishes and receiving equipment for their headend. A headend is where Charter or any cable company will have several satellite dishes setup to receive channels to resend out to their customers. This service saves Charter major money but isn't utilized in all Charter markets...some markets don't even have phone, internet, video on demand, or even digital cable yet. Next to St Louis and Longbeach CA, GSP market is on of their top markets and look how crappy they have let it get to. JMO

2. At this time, HITS (www dot hits dot com) only offers a small handful of HD channels, meaning Charter will only provide its customers with whats available to them. Charter is not going to spend any extra money on satellite receiving equipment when they can just wait on HITS to uplink the networks in the sky. Keep in mind, Charter in the Greenville/Spartanburg/Asheville market utilizes the HITS service. I had heard at one time when Charter was financially better off that they were going to get rid of the HITS service and starting forking out money to put in new headend equipment to make more room for new HD. But, Charter isn't doing so well financially, I mean have you talked to their customer service lately? RUDE! Obviously there isn't a care anymore with them, I prefer only to use them for internet.

3. Even though there is several HD channels out there now that Dish and Direct and other cable companies offer, just remember they are in better financial situations and can afford to have better channels...the point to this post...switch over to Dish or Direct, and from the words I have received, Charter isn't looking into adding new HD until in the fall...if things go through.

I am not a Charter employee however I know someone in Marketing that has informed me of what all is going on. There is also something that this market is looking into called switched video but I am not sure how that works.

Hope this make sense to most of you.

I think all of the above ^ is a wonderful reason to dump Charter (which I did in about 1999) and switch to Directv -- or even switch to a coathanger stuck out the window!

Has anyone else noticed that Charter has pretty much stopped adding new HD channels?Yeah, I don't think they had added a single channel from the time I bought my HDTV (March 2006) to the time I left Charter for D* (April 2007).

Since moving to D*, I honestly can't think of how many HD channels D* has added. All I know is that I currently have 38 national HD channels, so that doesn't include HD locals, premium channels, or PPV. Also, I don't even subscribe to the HD Extra Pack (HDNet, etc). In total (not including PPV), I currently have 49 HD channels with D*.

I think all of the above ^ is a wonderful reason to dump Charter (which I did in about 1999) and switch to Directv -- or even switch to a coathanger stuck out the window!Amen to that. I love the new D* ad, where the cable company execs are sitting around contemplating how to advertise to make it sound like cable has more HD than D*. "Let's call them choices." :confused:

I seriously don't know why anyone would stay with Charter, unless they're somehow prohibited from having D* (i.e. location, excessive trees, apartment, etc). Aside from D* being cheaper, the overall experience has just been way better than it ever was with Charter.

Clarifying a few points that have been made here:

* The claim that no new HD has been added by Charter since March 2006 is totally unfounded. There's been no new full-time HD in AVL/GSP since Halloween 2007 when A&E HD, History Channel HD and Golf/Versus HD were added. Also, we had at least a couple of new HD Channels offered back on March 1st, 2007 and the very much awaited WLOS in mid-May 2007. We've had Braves Games added from FSN South, SportSouth HD and Peachtree TV HD. Before I hear those arguments about D* having a heck of a lot more, it's a valid argument (not disagreeing with you on that particular point).

* It was posted here back in November that SDV was on its way across Charter's footprint, including AVL/GSP. This is old news.

* Yes, there are a lot of us within these mountains who can't switch from Charter or other Cable Services to D*/E* at our location due to trees, topography, apartments, etc. (Please don't suggest a bulldozer.) We work with the HD that's available to us. For these reasons, please don't belittle those of us who can't switch to D*/E* because you've been able to.

I was finally able to find a sat contractor that could work with my location and get Dish working for me. Now if I could only find high speed internet another way I would be Charter free!

I was finally about to find a sat contractor that could work with my location and get Dish working for me. Now if I could only find high speed internet another way I would be Charter free!

Now that would be a day for a party!!!

Anyone know what happened at WYFF this afternoon, I called, but they were no able to provide any details other than something had died. SD is okay but the HD has disappeared on DirecTV and OTA.

WYFF-DT has been off during daytime hours recently in order to make tower modifications. These mods are in the area around the DTV antanna and we must turn the transmitter off for the safety of the workers. We have one more day, most likely this week, when we'll have to shut down again. The analog is unaffected and the SD feeds on Directv and Dish continue as does both SD and HD on Charter since we have a fiber feed to them.

I apologize for the inconvenience, but it's unavoidable as we make preparations for the transition next Feb.

Doug

Clarifying a few points that have been made here:

* The claim that no new HD has been added by Charter since March 2006 is totally unfounded. There's been no new full-time HD in AVL/GSP since Halloween 2007 when A&E HD, History Channel HD and Golf/Versus HD were added. Also, we had at least a couple of new HD Channels offered back on March 1st, 2007 and the very much awaited WLOS in mid-May 2007. We've had Braves Games added from FSN South, SportSouth HD and Peachtree TV HD. Before I hear those arguments about D* having a heck of a lot more, it's a valid argument (not disagreeing with you on that particular point).

* It was posted here back in November that SDV was on its way across Charter's footprint, including AVL/GSP. This is old news.

* Yes, there are a lot of us within these mountains who can't switch from Charter or other Cable Services to D*/E* at our location due to trees, topography, apartments, etc. (Please don't suggest a bulldozer.) We work with the HD that's available to us. For these reasons, please don't belittle those of us who can't switch to D*/E* because you've been able to.


Fully understandable, I have family in the WNC mountains that doesn't have a choice either. My complete moral to my post was just trying to explain to those a possibilty of why Charter hasn't added any of the new major networks in HD. And to try to explain what goes on behind closed doors at Charter that they do not want you to know about.

Also, Dish Network is launching a MPEG4 service from its 61.5/72.5/77 degree location, these satellite locations use a higher elevation than the 110/119/129 do, so maybe when that is launched you will not have anything in your way of switching over.

Just helping you out friend, not trying to down talk you.

Now that would be a day for a party!!!

Amen Brother!

Fully understandable, I have family in the WNC mountains that doesn't have a choice either. My complete moral to my post was just trying to explain to those a possibilty of why Charter hasn't added any of the new major networks in HD. And to try to explain what goes on behind closed doors at Charter that they do not want you to know about.

Also, Dish Network is launching a MPEG4 service from its 61.5/72.5/77 degree location, these satellite locations use a higher elevation than the 110/119/129 do, so maybe when that is launched you will not have anything in your way of switching over.

Just helping you out friend, not trying to down talk you.

No biggie. :) I was just trying to defend those of us who don't have the luxury of getting a dish. Those of us can only hope for more HD with Charter or for U-verse or FiOS to come into town. Maybe if some trees and mountains can come down soon, I can get D* or E* down the road. :rolleyes:

WYFF-DT has been off during daytime hours recently in order to make tower modifications. These mods are in the area around the DTV antanna and we must turn the transmitter off for the safety of the workers. We have one more day, most likely this week, when we'll have to shut down again. The analog is unaffected and the SD feeds on Directv and Dish continue as does both SD and HD on Charter since we have a fiber feed to them.

I apologize for the inconvenience, but it's unavoidable as we make preparations for the transition next Feb.

Doug


Thanks for the info. :)

If I remember correctly, there are black horizontal streaking lines though the video most likely caused by a timing issue with some equipment we have inline that inserts our bug. We might be waiting on a tri-level sync generator to correct it.
-Shaun

I'm still seeing the streaks on WNTV-D 29-3. But your logo (bug?) appears normally. Could something else be going on?

Thanks

When is PBS 29-1 actually going to start showing HD?

When is PBS 29-1 actually going to start showing HD?29-3 is the HD subchannel. I may be wrong, but I don't think 29-1 is ever going to be HD. BTW, have you noticed any streaks on 29-3?

I haven't noticed the streaks, but I don't watch it alot to notice them, but when I just checked it looked alright. :)

UPDATES!


WLOS and WMYA DT:

Never received a e mail reply from the J Connors, GM of WLOS/WMYA concerning issues with poor signals at both stations during optimal reception conditions, including picture and audio break up and strange signal strength patterns during completely calm weather conditions.. So I don't know what to make of this.

I have noticed that the signal strength is more consistant on both stations with less picture and audio problems from WLOS DT, WMYA is still not a quality signal and picture and audio problems persist.

WNTV:

I too see the strange horizontal lines appearing on 29.3 Not always but a regular occurance. My guess is a satellite reception problem at WNTV. Its strange it almost looks like something you would see on an analog satellite feed with a reception issue. 29.1 an 29.2 are ok..However I have noticed a slight degradition on the overall picture quality pictures have slightly darker than optimal white levels...Say compared to UNC TV DT pictures of similar programs and channels.

WSPA: Their transmitter tower was hit by lightening last week and ever since then I have noticed that there is some quite regular issues with poor signal quality and picture break up.

Possibly not related..... I have noticed that the feeds from CBS and other sources not live from WSPA have some white level degradation problems. The pictures seems softer darker than from WBTV in Charlotte for example.

Noticed that programming coming from CBS and other feeds have shown a slight set of parallel set of horizontal bars travelling up the picture they are very faint but you can notice them.


Seems like there are some slight satellite DT receiver issues at WSPA and WNTV which do cause a noticable degradation in picture brightness, resolution and clarity .

WHNS: Still has white and black level issues with some programming, it has gotten a bit better with live Fox Sports feeds.

29-3 is the HD subchannel. I may be wrong, but I don't think 29-1 is ever going to be HD. BTW, have you noticed any streaks on 29-3?

When analog shuts down in February we will eliminate our first SD channel and will make our HD channel our primary service. Our lineup will be one HD channel (29-1) and a SD channel (29-2). The bandwidth recuperated from this change will be put back into the HD channel.

We still are having some timing issues with our HD channel. The result is black streaking lines through the video. Basically, all the equipment we have in line needs to be timed to a common source to synchronize correctly. The equipment is on order, but I do not have a time frame on the installation.

-Shaun

Shaun,

Thanks so much for your reply concerning the issues on your SCETV 29.3 HD subchannel...

Its great to have some feedback from the various stations engineers. I also want to thank WYFF for their response to concerns with their issues. Most viewers are very patient with technical problems IF the broadcaster takes a few minutes to communicate with the public. Almost all viewers understand that digital tv and the technology is still fairly new and complicated so there will be issues to work out for some time to come.

For the laymen including myself, can anyone elaborate on why the video on ETV from the PBS feeds in general is slightly darker (lower white levels) compared to say UNC transmissions of PBS feeds?

The same could be asked about WSPA CBS feeds (lower white levels) vs WBTV CBS feeds...(higher white levels). Anyone?

UPDATES!


WLOS and WMYA DT:

Never received a e mail reply from the J Connors, GM of WLOS/WMYA concerning issues with poor signals at both stations during optimal reception conditions, including picture and audio break up and strange signal strength patterns during completely calm weather conditions.. So I don't know what to make of this.

I have noticed that the signal strength is more consistant on both stations with less picture and audio problems from WLOS DT, WMYA is still not a quality signal and picture and audio problems persist.



Dubber, sorry to hear that you've had no luck reaching anyone at WLOS/WMYA. :( I'd next suggest calling the Engineering Dept. The phone number for that department is located on the following page: http://www.wlos.com/sections/station/index.shtml . Maybe they'll respond back to your e-mails this week before you have to resort to calling.

For the laymen including myself, can anyone elaborate on why the video on ETV from the PBS feeds in general is slightly darker (lower white levels) compared to say UNC transmissions of PBS feeds?

The difference in video levels is probably a result of how each network has their plants laid out. It has been over five years since I have visited UNC-TV, but I do remember that they have a different encoding system than what we use. Although we both receive PBS HD via satellite, each network has different equipment in line that processes the service before it is ultimately broadcast. In our case, the service is routed through bug inserters and noise reduction equipment before it is encoded for transmission. Each piece of equipment that processes the service has an effect on the video quality.

-Shaun

Quick question: Does anybody know what DirecTV satellite/transponder we're getting our HD locals from?

Quick question: Does anybody know what DirecTV satellite/transponder we're getting our HD locals from?


"http://www.lyngsat.com/packages/directvusa101.html"

HD locals are not on 101 but either 99 or 103.

Yeah, I knew it was either 99 or 103.

Jerry, when you were having issues, did they do a realignment? Can you post your 99 and 103 signal strengths to compare with mine?

Tonight's Greenville Drive Minor League game on My40 has Stan Pamfilis and...Jack Connors, VP/GM of WLOS/WMYA. Dubber, maybe this is why he hasn't answered your e-mail.?.?

How interesting pop!

WLOS/WMYA DT:
In any case I will say that their WLOS DT OTA signal has improved a bit, much steadier not fluctuating nearly as much as it was a month ago quite a bit LESS audio and pic dropouts. The WMYA DT signal is still poor at best, and seems very unsteady, even with the wind calm in both the receive and transmit locations...

I have noticed that there appears to be timing or coding issues at times on WLOS DT ,noticed the juddering pic in the second to last (I think ) NBA final games. Also noticed this on Good Morning America numerous occasions because the news crawler makes it obvious. However that may be the feed from ABC and NOT WLOS, not sure.

Also WLOS DT 13.2 which carries WMYA still has the audio delay issues.



WSPA:

Still noticing signal issues from them AFTER the lightining strike at their antenna and transmiter site. No problem noticed at all before the strike. Are they using a back up antenna or transmitter possibly due to lightining damage?

Oddly it appears to be very similar to that I have experienced on WLOS for a time. Very cyclical signal fluctuation patterns, with calm winds in BOTH receive and transmit locations. Regular pic and audio break up as well of course.

WHNS:

Have to give them credit. A very strong solid signal and NO reception problems, no pic breakups ...

However being a bit picky. I continue to notice their odd black and white level issues on many programs. Especially the black level is way to low...contrast is poor on many programs and satellite feeds. Ten O'clock News is pretty good most of the time, except for live sat truck feeds. Fox Entertainment feeds tend to be a bit dark (low white level)
while Fox Sports feeds are very good.

Shaun. Thanks for the explanition of picture variation. You are an excellent representative for ETV. Gunna e mail ETV about you doing a great job explaining things here on AVS if you are OK with that.

We still are having some timing issues with our HD channel. The result is black streaking lines through the video. Basically, all the equipment we have in line needs to be timed to a common source to synchronize correctly. The equipment is on order, but I do not have a time frame on the installation.

Looks like it's fixed! Thanks so much for staying on top of this and keeping us informed.

WHNS:

Have to give them credit. A very strong solid signal and NO reception problems, no pic breakups ...

However being a bit picky. I continue to notice their odd black and white level issues on many programs. Especially the black level is way to low...contrast is poor on many programs and satellite feeds. Ten O'clock News is pretty good most of the time, except for live sat truck feeds. Fox Entertainment feeds tend to be a bit dark (low white level)
while Fox Sports feeds are very good.

FOX Net and Sports programming is through the splicer and the station has no control over the audio or video levels. At my station, the black and white levels from network have been fine. If those are looking dark, then I would suggest you check your TV since all FOX stations get the same levels.

I have noticed that the ETV- WNTV 29.3 DT pic is almost totally free of the horizontal streak error that had been occuring. Good work Shaun & company!

Concerning WHNS:

Thanks for the reply foxeng. I can tell you that I have noticed this on quite a number of TVs BOTH analog and digital from WHNS. The Fox Net (Entertainment shows) have just slightly lesser white levels, with the pic being a bit darker overall, just ever so slightly compared to the Fox Sports programming. I have a very good eye for this stuff. I suppose that it COULD BE the origination source and not WHNS. Does WHNS receive multiple sources of Fox satellite feeds?

In any case I don't think you will disagree that some WHNS programming has very poor contrast and I would say compressed white and black levels. It seems like they are using an auto leveler that isn't getting the job done.

UPDATE !

WSPA:

I reported that they were possibly experiencing problems with their DT signal after a lightining strike a couple of weeks ago. Last night they were off the air briefly at about 1am (no signal at all). It did look like they were making signal adjustments according to my signal strength meter. A bit of an improvement was noticed in the signal stability since then, but still some occasional pic break ups.

Still curious about their CBS (entertainment ) feed. The pic looks like it has low white levels. Not as crisp or bright as WBTV's CBS feed.

Shaun. Thanks for the explanition of picture variation. You are an excellent representative for ETV. Gunna e mail ETV about you doing a great job explaining things here on AVS if you are OK with that.

I appreciate all the feedback we get from the users on this forum. Your comments definitely help us find and correct issues with our services more quickly than we can without your input.

I am at the coast until mid week, so I cannot say whether the fix is a temporary one or permanent. When I am back in Columbia, I will find out what the fix was and will let everyone know if we think that we are going to continue to have issues.

Good or bad, you are always welcome to contact ETV, or me via the forum, about anything that is on your mind. We like your comments because they help us do our jobs better. Obviously, good is the preferred message, but without the bad we would never improve.

I am just a cog in our department of engineers. These guys are managing 22 TV transmitters and 8 radio stations around the state. Luckily, I deal with the digital side of the house so I only hit the road a few time a month. I hate bad customer support, so I try to be proactive when I see our station call letters posted.

-Shaun

Concerning WHNS:

Thanks for the reply foxeng. I can tell you that I have noticed this on quite a number of TVs BOTH analog and digital from WHNS. The Fox Net (Entertainment shows) have just slightly lesser white levels, with the pic being a bit darker overall, just ever so slightly compared to the Fox Sports programming. I have a very good eye for this stuff. I suppose that it COULD BE the origination source and not WHNS. Does WHNS receive multiple sources of Fox satellite feeds?

I can't speak for WHNS' non network programming, but I can say about network feeds. It comes from one place only and all stations get the same signal. There is no way it can be one level on one FOX station and another level on another FOX station. Again, if you are seeing low video levels on network programming, the issue isn't at WHNS'since at my station, we are not having level issues and we get the same exact feed that WHNS gets.

I can't speak for WHNS' non network programming, but I can say about network feeds. It comes from one place only and all stations get the same signal. There is no way it can be one level on one FOX station and another level on another FOX station. Again, if you are seeing low video levels on network programming, the issue isn't at WHNS'since at my station, we are not having level issues and we get the same exact feed that WHNS gets.


Perhaps I am being overly picky about the video levels. Like I said the difference is very slight ALMOST imperceptable between the Fox Sports programming and the entertainment programming BUT I can notice it. Of course I don't have access to a scope though. :o I asked but you didn't reply to this.......do some of the sports and entertainment feeds come from different sat transponder sources? I'm thinking that the variation is at the point of origin.

...do some of the sports and entertainment feeds come from different sat transponder sources? I'm thinking that the variation is at the point of origin.

Yes, but again, everyone gets the same feed no matter what transponder they are fed from. With the splicer, the feed is already ASI and it comes straight from the receiver to the transmitter bypasing ANY thing the station may be using. It is a straight feed. The other networks have the stations decompress the signal, process it and then reencode it. FOX's signal is ready for the transmitter when it leaves LA.

Well, it looks like WLOS is beginning the upgrade of their newscasts. AccuWeather is out the door and SkyWatch (from Weather Central?) is the name of the Weather Game. Not bad looking. I can't wait to see their weather presentation whenever HD Local News premieres.

To dubber and others...

I spoke on the phone for several minutes with WLOS's Chief Engineer Jack Conners a few days ago regarding my earlier post here of significant signal fluctuations on WLOS-DT and WMYA-DT. While I am receiving a great WLOS analog signal, the fact that the current DT signal (from Mt Pisgah) is on channel 56 (I think 56 is correct) makes it so sensitive to wind-blown foliage. I wasn't experiencing this problem as bad in the winter. I told him that my WLOS-DT signal was so unreliable that I had to rig up a way to watch WLOS analog (my box lacks analog pass thru). He gave me some good advice regarding the February transition. He said to be patient until the February change. With many stations migrating back down to a lower if not their original analog channel (channels 50-up and low band VHF will be mostly abandoned), an improved signal should be seen for a few reasons -- simply moving down the UHF band will minimize the "foliage effect" and analog signals shutting off will "clean up" a currently RF-cluttered atmosphere. Think about that last one -- all full power US TV stations are transmitting 2 big signals (analog and digital), so that's like twice the number of US stations or twice the RF cluttering the air. I told him I was so tempted to spend some money on an antenna and/or booster, but Mr Conners told me to wait until after February. Once the analog signals are shut off, many broadcasters will spend the following months permanently placing their digital antennas and this will also impact signals. I agree with him on all of these accounts, and I am going to exercise patience until after February on any antenna upgrades.

Dubber...you had mentioned not hearing from Mr Conners via email. I was successful with phoning WLOS at the toll-free number on their website 1-800-288-8813. I asked for engineering, left a message, and he called me within a few hours.

Eric

To dubber and others...

I spoke on the phone for several minutes with WLOS's Chief Engineer Jack Conners a few days ago regarding my earlier post here of significant signal fluctuations on WLOS-DT and WMYA-DT.


Dubber...you had mentioned not hearing from Mr Conners via email. I was successful with phoning WLOS at the toll-free number on their website 1-800-288-8813. I asked for engineering, left a message, and he called me within a few hours.

Eric

Clarification: Jack Connors is the VP/GM of WLOS, not Chief Engineer.

The suggestion of calling the toll-free number was made earlier in the thread.

News Talent Moves:

Former WYFF'er Jennifer Valdez is now on the weather staff at WGCL in Atlanta. Her video midday forecast was available on their web site this afternoon.

Also from CollectiveTalent.com ( http://www.collectivetalent.com ):

The NWT Group would like to congratulate DAN BUBANY, who has been promoted to weekday morning news anchor at WHNS in Greenville-Asheville, NC from sports director/anchor/reporter.

He will also anchor the 2008 season of “Friday Night Blitz.” This is the second promotion at the station for Dan. He joined WHNS in 2005 as a sports reporter/photographer and was named Sports Director in 2006.

Clarification: Jack Connors is the VP/GM of WLOS, not Chief Engineer.

The suggestion of calling the toll-free number was made earlier in the thread.

Sorry for the mix-up...I indeed spoke to the engineer (I believe the "Chief" -- he IS the guy who works on the transmitter), but his name has slipped from me.

Eric

On Monday (6/23), WLOS premiered its new Weather Computer and its weathercast was renamed SkyWatch (replacing AccuWeather). A preview of the widescreen graphics that we might see when their local news goes HD in a couple of months (if not sooner) is at http://www.wlos.com/shared/newsroom/wx/wlos_index.shtml .

Here's more details on Sinclair's plans for HD Local News at their TV stations (including WLOS):

News Sets:
http://nabshow.bdmetrics.com/portal/ViewPressRelease.aspx?id=38760&cid=4317050

Weather Computers from Weather Central (5-yr. agreement):
http://www.wxc.com/corporate/press/2008/Sinclair%20Release.pdf

SD/HD Multiformat Production Switcher:
http://www.broadcastbuyer.tv/publish/New_Contracts_24/Sinclair_Flagship_Station_WBFF_FOX45_Deploys_Snell_Wilcox_Ka huna_For_Baltimore_s_First_HD_Newscasts_16417.shtml

Overall Article (posted earlier in this thread, but a good refresher on their plans and the different vendors involved):
http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6546067.html#Sinclair

News Talent Moves:
Former WYFF'er Jennifer Valdez is now on the weather staff at WGCL in Atlanta. Her video midday forecast was available on their web site this afternoon.


Ahh, I wondered where the lovely Ms. Valdez had went to. My eyes will miss her. :D

I'm on Greenville Charter, "Greer" near Old Spartanburg@S. Batesville Roads ...

I note that ABC News NOW has been added at 78.9

SCETV at 86.8 and 103.3 disappeared today; transmitter problems?

Channel 21's weather was on 90.2; there was a news article that it had gone HD. I've done a less than complete search and cannot find it on an in-the-clear channel. Does anyone have knowledge of where (if?) it is?

I'm on Greenville Charter, "Greer" near Old Spartanburg@S. Batesville Roads ...

I note that ABC News NOW has been added at 78.9

SCETV at 86.8 and 103.3 disappeared today; transmitter problems?

Channel 21's weather was on 90.2; there was a news article that it had gone HD. I've done a less than complete search and cannot find it on an in-the-clear channel. Does anyone have knowledge of where (if?) it is?

Do you have a link to the news article that you can include here that mentions its weather haven gone HD? At last check (Friday), their news and weather were still in SD. I know that I can't get their weather subchannel on Charter Ch. 246 (haven't been able to in about a week?).

Just saw this on WSPA's 11pm news. During the 6pm news (6:20 to be precise) on Thursday, they're going to shut off the signal to their analog transmitter briefly, so people can see for themselves whether they need to do something about the real analog shutdown next February.

Do you have a link to the news article that you can include here that mentions its weather haven gone HD? At last check (Friday), their news and weather were still in SD. I know that I can't get their weather subchannel on Charter Ch. 246 (haven't been able to in about a week?).

No, and it is just a recollection. Via QAM, 90.1 is WYFF's, 90.2 was WHNS's, and 90.3 is WSPA's. I rarely look at them, just noted that 90.2 was dead as I scrolled and THINK I recalled that somewhere. There is no room in Charter's implementation to make a 90.x HD ... it has about 45 music subchannels and the 2 weather.

No, and it is just a recollection. Via QAM, 90.1 is WYFF's, 90.2 was WHNS's, and 90.3 is WSPA's. I rarely look at them, just noted that 90.2 was dead as I scrolled and THINK I recalled that somewhere. There is no room in Charter's implementation to make a 90.x HD ... it has about 45 music subchannels and the 2 weather.

21.2 OTA is still SD too so it isn't in HD anywhere. Plus, I can't imagine WHNS would be able to have a sub channel in HD.

I wish more of Charter's QAM would be in the clear, I read how other places have several popular channels in the clear on QAM...why can't these engineers in the Greenville market just be too dumb to scramble the channels?? :confused:

For Charter Customers in the area, the following message was received on my EPG This Morning:

"Reelz Channel will be moving to channel 173 on August 13th 2008. Also check your local listings for our new HD channels coming in August; services may not be available in all areas."

Sounds promising for new HD??? If anyone gets info in the mail, on their bill or comes across a find on the program guides (TitanTV, Zap2it, Yahoo! TV, etc.), please pass along.

Reelz has already moved to 173 on the Asheville System (was simulcast on 156 and 173 for a time).

For Charter Customers in the area, the following message was received on my EPG This Morning:

"Reelz Channel will be moving to channel 173 on August 13th 2008. Also check your local listings for our new HD channels coming in August; services may not be available in all areas."

Sounds promising for new HD??? If anyone gets info in the mail, on their bill or comes across a find on the program guides (TitanTV, Zap2it, Yahoo! TV, etc.), please pass along.

Reelz has already moved to 173 on the Asheville System (was simulcast on 156 and 173 for a time).

The Asheville system is getting the weather channel hd, discovery hd, animal planet hd and tlc hd in August. My guess is we will be getting the same although we will have to wait until the next bill to find out.

The Asheville system is getting the weather channel hd, discovery hd, animal planet hd and tlc hd in August. My guess is we will be getting the same although we will have to wait until the next bill to find out.

I'm guessing you've been keeping up with the 'Charlotte, NC - Charter' thread, heh? :D I'm not holding my breath on these particular channels until something is in writing or appears in a subsequent message, but at least it appears the HD drought (8 1/2 months right now) might be subsiding temporarily. I get my next bill online on Tuesday or Wednesday, so I'm hoping they'll be listed there. The Customer Service Reps. don't even have it in their database, yet (checked yesterday afternoon). Big surprise!

The Asheville system is getting the weather channel hd, discovery hd, animal planet hd and tlc hd in August. My guess is we will be getting the same although we will have to wait until the next bill to find out.

Bah, I want USA and FX in HD!!!!!

Bah, I want USA and FX in HD!!!!!

I could go with switching Animal Planet HD out for USA HD. In fact, I could go with switching out Golf/Versus HD for FX HD. Maybe when NBC Universal renegotiates with Charter to carry their networks (including TWC HD), maybe they'll include USA HD in the deal. At least 3 out of the 4 "rumored" channels are what I watch semi-regularly.

If I could get those two channels in HD, I would never venture back into the SD channel range.

Sbennett: The thunderstorms over the past couple of weeks really played havoc with my reception of your Ch 9 HD signal. Yet, all UHF-HD remained unaffected. Viewers in other VHF-HD areas report the same. Otherwise your Ch 9 HD is a very reliable signal. Wen it is affected by weather, I can rely on Channel 30 out of Rock Hill and it is approximately 90 miles away.

Why did you choose Channel 9? Were there no other options in the selection process?

There was no "selection process." The FCC made a list and said "these are your digital channels, if any have serious problems, you can apply to move from them."

- Trip

I received a pamphlet in the mail yesterday the only channel you guys were missing is TBS HD, at least they are trying I am wishing for SCi Fi HD and USA HD however TBS does help

When we are in the area (summer), we tend to watch WYFF news. We always though they are the best. However, they don't seem to care much about HD (I know that they only have to switch to digital, not HD). However, WSPA, which we thought of as an also-ran, even though we live in the Spartanburg area, produces its local news in HD.
So, not only does WYFF produce its local news in SD (which we no longer watch), it is slow, very slow, to switch to HD for the national news. It is generally 5-10 minutes into the national news before they press the "HD" button.
This laxity indicates a careless approcach, and a failure to appreaciate the importance of the HD customer. This is sad, because others are focussing on that customer (who, demonstrably, has many dollars to spend). I am fortunate to have three HD receivers. Given a choice, I will select HD. Since WYFF has chosen not to produce theiir local news in HD, I skip it. Since they are often very slow in swithching the national news to HD, I frequently skip that too.
And people wonder why the networks are having problems.

I also got the Charter pamplet. I'm currently under a "deal" with the Biggest Value package, which I keep renegotiating (at an increasingly higher price - but still lower than usual) so I get the HD tier as part of that package. However, I was shocked to see that they actually charge $18 for the HD tier alone??? That's ridiculous for the few cable HD channels you get, considering you get the regular networks for free without the tier.

When we are in the area (summer), we tend to watch WYFF news. We always though they are the best. However, they don't seem to care much about HD (I know that they only have to switch to digital, not HD). However, WSPA, which we thought of as an also-ran, even though we live in the Spartanburg area, produces its local news in HD.
So, not only does WYFF produce its local news in SD (which we no longer watch), it is slow, very slow, to switch to HD for the national news. It is generally 5-10 minutes into the national news before they press the "HD" button.
This laxity indicates a careless approcach, and a failure to appreaciate the importance of the HD customer. This is sad, because others are focussing on that customer (who, demonstrably, has many dollars to spend). I am fortunate to have three HD receivers. Given a choice, I will select HD. Since WYFF has chosen not to produce theiir local news in HD, I skip it. Since they are often very slow in swithching the national news to HD, I frequently skip that too.
And people wonder why the networks are having problems.

WYFF is usually slow to switch to HD during the national news because they have to show that stupid crawl that Digital TV is coming in February. They do a terrible job with the Today show because they have to switch from HD to SD when going to the local break and they can only show the 10:00 hour and week-end shows in SD because they don't show them live. I too have switched to WSPA news.

When we are in the area (summer), we tend to watch WYFF news. We always though they are the best. However, they don't seem to care much about HD (I know that they only have to switch to digital, not HD). However, WSPA, which we thought of as an also-ran, even though we live in the Spartanburg area, produces its local news in HD.
So, not only does WYFF produce its local news in SD (which we no longer watch), it is slow, very slow, to switch to HD for the national news. It is generally 5-10 minutes into the national news before they press the "HD" button.

The issue with switching to HD during the nightly news is due to the equipment. Once they fully upgrade, they will be able to do a crawl over HD content. It isn't laziness but a technical issue.

The issue with switching to HD during the nightly news is due to the equipment. Once they fully upgrade, they will be able to do a crawl over HD content. It isn't laziness but a technical issue.

I think he is talking about the fact that sometimes they don't switch to the HD feed for the first 5-10 minutes of the broadcast. The crawl is long gone and they are just late to switch.

I received a pamphlet in the mail yesterday the only channel you guys were missing is TBS HD, at least they are trying I am wishing for SCi Fi HD and USA HD however TBS does help

Thanks for the "heads up"! That is great news about TBS HD if it is indeed added by Charter throughout Upstate SC/Western NC. Repeats of My Name Is Earl and Raymond in HD. :D

BTW, would you or anyone here be able to scan the pamphlet with the info (your personal info excluded, of course) and attach here?

Thanks for the "heads up"! That is great news about TBS HD if it is indeed added by Charter throughout Upstate SC/Western NC. Repeats of My Name Is Earl and Raymond in HD. :D


It's a shame TBS shows very little in HD though. I guess they have baseball and about 4 other shows and that is about it.

It's a shame TBS shows very little in HD though. I guess they have baseball and about 4 other shows and that is about it.

I guess that's the headline of the other cable channels that are in HD, as well. There are those exceptions, though.

Thanks for the "heads up"! That is great news about TBS HD if it is indeed added by Charter throughout Upstate SC/Western NC. Repeats of My Name Is Earl and Raymond in HD. :D

BTW, would you or anyone here be able to scan the pamphlet with the info (your personal info excluded, of course) and attach here? The pamplet I received today for Upstate SC Charter says that five new HD channels will be added on August 13th:

channel 712 - Weather HD
channel 713 - Discovery HD
channel 714 - TLC HD
channel 715 - Animal Planet HD
channel 716 - TBS HD

The flyer itself is just a bit confusing, so I thought the above list was clearer than a picture of the actual flyer.

The pamplet I received today for Upstate SC Charter says that five new HD channels will be added on August 13th:

channel 712 - Weather HD
channel 713 - Discovery HD
channel 714 - TLC HD
channel 715 - Animal Planet HD
channel 716 - TBS HD

The flyer itself is just a bit confusing, so I thought the above list was clearer than a picture of the actual flyer.

10-4. Thanks for the update. :eek: :D :)

Western NC Charter Customers are getting the flier announcing the HD additions, as well. The HD Channels to be added mirror those that GVLBob listed. On the Asheville System, CSPAN2 and Inspirational Networks are moving to new channels and will become part of the Basic Service Digital Only and Expanded Service Digital Only Services. Can't wait until 8/13 for the new HD!!!

We made the switch to DishNetwork and their HD Absolute package - installed this week. Although this exact package is being change 8/1 into three packages, Dish will continue to offer HD only options. Right now I have all the HD stations (about 45 of them) for $29.99/mo. They charge an addition $5 for locals in HD (but since I have both an OTA antenna and QAM from Charter I didn't get this option). HD-DVR fee would be an addition $7, but I use Sage and am getting a HD-PVR so I opted out of the DVR as well.

Dish is changing from one HD only tier to three HD only tiers starting 8/1 and the exact channels on each tier have not been released yet. But for those of you that are really tired with the lack of HD stations on Charter, this can be a cheap alternative.

PS - just to make it clear, you do NOT need to subscribe to a SD tier and add HD to the tier, you can get an HD only option from Dish.

Anyway, I just thought I would throw out my experience since I just subscribed and got the install this week.

Feel free to PM me if you have any questions and don't want to muddy up the thread.

Other than snatching the Voom HD channels away with no warning, I've been satisfied with Dish HD. The Everything Pack (well, not everything really, but darn close to it) runs about $130 a month.

Charter now claims that they provide more than 175 HD and HD On Demand Choices. (see attachment):confused:

Just wanted to update on a couple of issues.

WHNS Fox 21:

I wrote to Jim Barnes (Chief Engineer) e mail jim.barnes@foxcarolina .com and mentioned in some detail the issue with poor white and black levels on non Fox programming. Wrote Mr. Barnes about a week ago. Absolutely NO reply. I really don't understand the lack of responsiveness from so many outfits regarding technical issues. Heck even if they sent a brief reply by way of an engineering intern it would at least show some interest in viewer feedback. Oh well.

I have noticed NO IMPROVEMENT IN THE BLACK, WHITE LEVELS AND CONTRAST ISSUES of non Fox programming at all.

I wish they would make an attempt to fix this.

WYFF 4:

I had written them concerning the possible addition of MSNBC on an additional subchannel and received a very curt, nearly rude reply from someone who did not name themselves.

I can see that WYFF is not really interested in viewer comments either.


I had worked for a former Hearst Argyle station in Lancaster about a decade ago WGAL TV8 and I see the corporate disdain for viewer input there as well.

Charter now claims that they provide more than 175 HD and HD On Demand Choices. (see attachment):confused: Those totals are made up of:

17 Hi-Def View
4 Hi-Def Premiun
5 Hi-Def Lifeline
6 Hi-Def Adult PPV

So 32 channels outside of the Charter On Demand ones.

I don't think that MSNBC would be carried as a sub-channel seeing as how it's a cable network. I'm pretty sure that the cable and satellite companies pay to carry MSNBC, so the local affiliates carrying them as a subchannel would eliminate a source of income (and networks carried over the air have to follow additional FCC regulations, E/I and whatnot...).

I have heard of ABC News Now being carried as a subchannel (not sure if it's still around or not...), but that's very different from MSNBC/Fox News.

Charter now claims that they provide more than 175 HD and HD On Demand Choices. (see attachment):confused:

That is when HD On Demand is up and running....hasn't been available here since March(?). Too bad, the suggestions made here to go to D* or E* aren't a feasible option on this end.

I don't think that MSNBC would be carried as a sub-channel seeing as how it's a cable network. I'm pretty sure that the cable and satellite companies pay to carry MSNBC, so the local affiliates carrying them as a subchannel would eliminate a source of income (and networks carried over the air have to follow additional FCC regulations, E/I and whatnot...).

I have heard of ABC News Now being carried as a subchannel (not sure if it's still around or not...), but that's very different from MSNBC/Fox News.

I agree.

That is when HD On Demand is up and running....hasn't been available here since March(?).It's on and off in Greenville. It was there are a couple of weeks ago -- I remember seeing the entire first season of Mad Men on AMC HD-on-Demand right after getting the Blu-ray set :) -- but it's definitely off right now.

I wonder why Charter is sandwiching these new HD channels between the standard-def HBO and Cinemax instead of grouping them with the rest of the high-def content.

It's on and off in Greenville. It was there are a couple of weeks ago -- I remember seeing the entire first season of Mad Men on AMC HD-on-Demand right after getting the Blu-ray set :) -- but it's definitely off right now.

I wonder why Charter is sandwiching these new HD channels between the standard-def HBO and Cinemax instead of grouping them with the rest of the high-def content.

Here, it's sandwiched between SD Starz and Encore Channels. Could it be the beginning of their making 700-799 the HD Tier on their systems for the slow "as molasses" trickle? Maybe it's similiar to the 800 Tier being the PPV Channels and the 900 Tier being the MusicChoice Channels.

Charter now claims that they provide more than 175 HD and HD On Demand Choices. (see attachment):confused:

My career has taken me all over the US and in each location the cable company was the most vile organization of any business I dealt with. Local commercial TV station's ownership and senior management weren't far behind.

WLOS is now in their newsroom temporarily for the next several weeks while they build a brand spanking new news set. Victoria and Jay did mention that this was in prepration for going HD with their newscasts. This is a very promising sign!

Charter now claims that they provide more than 175 HD and HD On Demand Choices. (see attachment):confused:Well, considering D* currently offers more HD channels and there are 176 HD OnDemand downloads available, it's kind of pointless for Charter to even promote their "choices".

Anyone in the Greenville DMA using an antenna with a computer-based receiver on Windows XP? If you are and would like to give me a hand with my little project (www.rabbitears.info), PM me or e-mail or whatever you prefer.

Tried to get some data this morning when I was in Charlotte, but none of the digitals came in. Best I did was a weak analog signal on 62 from WYCW.

Thanks!

- Trip

WLOS is now in their newsroom temporarily for the next several weeks while they build a brand spanking new news set. Victoria and Jay did mention that this was in prepration for going HD with their newscasts. This is a very promising sign!

On tonight's 6 p.m. Newscast (maybe on tonight's later newscasts on ABC13 and My40), WLOS will show what the finished HD Studio should look like when it's completed. It should be interesting since it'll be a John Le report. They showed a glimpse of the demolition on the 5:30 p.m.

Update at 7 p.m.: The new HD News Set, designed by Devlin Design Group, is $4 million dollars in cost and will debut in September. If you have seen screen captures floating throughout the 'Net of the new HD News Set for WBFF, Sinclair sister-station in Baltimore, you'll get an idea of what NEWS13's will look like. They showed renditions of the new news set and if it lives up to the hype, it'll be the best in the DMA.

In light of our upcoming additions, I thought some of you might find this article interesting.

http://www.patana.fi/usa8.html

In light of our upcoming additions, I thought some of you might find this article interesting.

http://www.patana.fi/usa8.html

I'd be pissed if that was my "HD"

So far we've been happy with the Dish HD only package. Got the bill for the first two months. It looks like we'll be paying the $29.99 and about $1.75 in taxes. Not bad.

WLOS is now in their newsroom temporarily for the next several weeks while they build a brand spanking new news set. Victoria and Jay did mention that this was in prepration for going HD with their newscasts. This is a very promising sign!

I wonder if WMYA's news broadcasts will also go HD, like WYCW's did along with WSPA's.

I wonder if WMYA's news broadcasts will also go HD, like WYCW's did along with WSPA's.

It'll depend on if they have WMYA's HD Equipment installed in time. Jack Connors had mentioned in my correspondence with him back in March that they were working on that capability (especially for the ACC Tournament games that are aired there). Regardless, parts of the DMA currently don't get WMYA in HD (cable or dish).

I'd be pissed if that was my "HD"

So far we've been happy with the Dish HD only package. Got the bill for the first two months. It looks like we'll be paying the $29.99 and about $1.75 in taxes. Not bad.

Just for grins and giggles and to put the sales pitches to rest, I tried to see if I could get a better deal than Charter by going to E*. I have to say that E*'s website is very user unfriendly. It's DishBUILDER "feature" won't let you select DVR with 2 HDTV's, won't let you select a-la-carte features (i.e. Superstations, adding DVR, etc.) and the price when I was finished would be more expensive than Charter (Biggest Value with 10MB HSI).

Also, I checked D* and found that I'd get a better deal by going to them than with E* and had no problems selecting a-la-carte features. Although, Charter would still be a greater value than D* (can't get Internet with D* unless you pay $70 per month for Satellite Internet). I'd be more willing to entertain a sales pitch from D* than what we've been getting here for E* if I were considering a switch. As Tim Waller would say on WYFF, "Buyer Beware" when considering HD Options from all aforementioned.

I'd be pissed if that was my "HD"


I am pissed most of the time.

And I'm pissed off about the HD quality, that's for sure. I canceled the Comcast TV-service few days after I wrote that. I just couldn't find any reason to keep paying around $100 for that, especially as during the summer time, all the series I keep watching are on summer vacation.

Heck, with 1 month Comcast bill I can buy one season of all the series I watch from there anyway, so....

I still have internet from Comcast, nothing (much) to complain about that. But if FIOS and FIOS-TV becomes available in this area, I think I will change.

I must say, I don't miss tv that much, I still have more than enough DVDs on my shelf I haven't yet watched. But for first weeks, it felt odd when coming home, I couldn't turn on the TV just for background noise.

Just for grins and giggles and to put the sales pitches to rest, I tried to see if I could get a better deal than Charter by going to E*. I have to say that E*'s website is very user unfriendly. It's DishBUILDER "feature" won't let you select DVR with 2 HDTV's, won't let you select a-la-carte features (i.e. Superstations, adding DVR, etc.) and the price when I was finished would be more expensive than Charter (Biggest Value with 10MB HSI).

Also, I checked D* and found that I'd get a better deal by going to them than with E* and had no problems selecting a-la-carte features. Although, Charter would still be a greater value than D* (can't get Internet with D* unless you pay $70 per month for Satellite Internet). I'd be more willing to entertain a sales pitch from D* than what we've been getting here for E* if I were considering a switch. As Tim Waller would say on WYFF, "Buyer Beware" when considering HD Options from all aforementioned.I used to have the "biggest value + internet" with Charter, and then the promo price ended. I can't even remember what my bill went up to (it's been 18 months now). Charter was unwilling to continue the promo price unless I paid full price for 3 months. Needless to say, I left, and my bill is $30 cheaper with D* than it would have been at regular price with Charter. $30 cheaper, and how many more HD channels? Not to mention the fact that at the time, I qualified for $425 in rebate checks from Bellsouth just for switching. So, over the past 18 months, it's actually been $53 cheaper per month. Yeah, a no-brainer.

I know not everyone has the option to go with sat, but if you do, stop wasting your time with Charter. It's never going to get any better.

FIOS might make me considering switching from D*, but Charter can keep wasting their money by sending me brochures about their HD choices, and I'll keep laughing at them.

FIOS might make me considering switching from D*, but Charter can keep wasting their money by sending me brochures about their HD choices, and I'll keep laughing at them.

Yeah, if FIOS makes a run for the area, it would be a worthy consideration since Verizon is a provider for Weaverville's phone service and they even have 100 HD Channels (Source: http://www.tvpredictions.com/verizonlist072808.htm ). Unfortunately, AT&T is the big dog in Buncombe County, so Verizon might not think it's worth funneling huge amounts of money into the here to build the infrastructure for FIOS.

How disappointing is it that WSPA flipped back to SD during the CBS Evening News during its HD debut tonight? It looks like audio issues are to blame (national or only for WSPA?).

Updated at 6:35 p.m.: WTRK in Norolk, VA had the same issue, so it appears to be a problem at the network level.

Updated at 6:51 p.m.: KTHV in Little Rock, AR also reported the same issue. CBS Evening News returned in HD and with audio at 6:51 p.m.

Updated at 7:06 p.m.: Apparently, the issue is mostly affecting stations that have their audio in DD5.1 (Source: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14386981#post14386981 ).

Any chance of breaking this into two separate threads, as many areas do: one, Charter. Two, satellite plus OTA. Those of us with satellite aren't much concerned about Charter, and vice versa. Any thoughts?

Any chance of breaking this into two separate threads, as many areas do: one, Charter. Two, satellite plus OTA. Those of us with satellite aren't much concerned about Charter, and vice versa. Any thoughts?Every few weeks, someone brings that up, and it ends up getting shot down. I think that this thread's purpose is to discuss HDTV, whether it's OTA, D*, E*, or Charter.

Just wanted to update on a couple of issues.

WYFF 4:

I had written them concerning the possible addition of MSNBC on an additional subchannel and received a very curt, nearly rude reply from someone who did not name themselves.

I can see that WYFF is not really interested in viewer comments either.


I had worked for a former Hearst Argyle station in Lancaster about a decade ago WGAL TV8 and I see the corporate disdain for viewer input there as well.

I'm not sure who at WYFF responded to your email but if it was not signed, then it was a mistake and if you thought it was rude, then please accept my apology. All email replies are from our personal work email addresses so you can reply directly to the sender. We do welcome viewer feedback, but answering emails is a task we must add to our other daily duties and I believe we answer most in a timely manner. There will always be some that fall through the cracks. If anyone here has questions about our operation you can email me at ddurkee@hearst.com and I will do my best to answer.

Doug

The issue with switching to HD during the nightly news is due to the equipment. Once they fully upgrade, they will be able to do a crawl over HD content. It isn't laziness but a technical issue.

This is correct. We don't have an HD character generator for HD native crawls but we're getting close. As for HD switching, it was mostly manual up until about 6 weeks ago. It is now controlled by automation so if the automation is programmed correctly, HD will be switched properly.

I'm an avid HD viewer too and I don't like switching to upconverted video to run crawls either. We are working to minimize and eventually eliminate this practice. The Olympics will be entirely in HD for the first time and we want to be as HD viewer friendly as possible so we are working to keep the switch to upconverted video during HD programming to a minimum. We're making progress but not as quickly as any of us would like.

Doug

Every few weeks, someone brings that up, and it ends up getting shot down. I think that this thread's purpose is to discuss HDTV, whether it's OTA, D*, E*, or Charter.

Thats odd. As a D* subscriber, I have no interest in Charter, and don't imagine Charter subscribers have much interest in D* or E* either. A whole lot of places have broken their subscriptions into multiple parts. Just because somebody says lets not do it doesn't make it a bad idea.
Secondarily, why not eliminate the first couple thousand posts in this thread? It is getting unwieldy, and the answers that appllied a few years ago don't have much to do with today.

Yeah, if FIOS makes a run for the area, it would be a worthy consideration since Verizon is a provider for Weaverville's phone service and they even have 100 HD Channels (Source: http://www.tvpredictions.com/verizonlist072808.htm ). Unfortunately, AT&T is the big dog in Buncombe County, so Verizon might not think it's worth funneling huge amounts of money into the here to build the infrastructure for FIOS.

ATT has their own version of FiOS, so its plausible they could be bringing it here one day.

https://uverse1.att.com/un/launchAMSS.do

Thats odd. As a D* subscriber, I have no interest in Charter, and don't imagine Charter subscribers have much interest in D* or E* either. A whole lot of places have broken their subscriptions into multiple parts. Just because somebody says lets not do it doesn't make it a bad idea.
Secondarily, why not eliminate the first couple thousand posts in this thread? It is getting unwieldy, and the answers that appllied a few years ago don't have much to do with today.

I personally like hearing about what you can get on both sides of the spectrum. It keeps me up to date on what the market offers.

Thats odd. As a D* subscriber, I have no interest in Charter, and don't imagine Charter subscribers have much interest in D* or E* either. A whole lot of places have broken their subscriptions into multiple parts.Don't most of them get more traffic, though? I mean, this thread only has a few posts a day, and sometimes not even that, so the signal-to-noise ratio regardless of someone's preferred delivery method is pretty easy to deal with.

I'll admit to my preference being for one thread, personally.

Don't most of them get more traffic, though?

I'll admit to my preference being for one thread, personally.

I think the ones with a lot of posts are probably those with mainly OTA HD. I know I was far more interested in this thread when that was what I had.
You are clearly entitled to your opinion about being one thread, and limited posting does sort of tie in with that. How about eliminating a few thousand old posts, however?

Don't most of them get more traffic, though? I mean, this thread only has a few posts a day, and sometimes not even that, so the signal-to-noise ratio regardless of someone's preferred delivery method is pretty easy to deal with.

I'll admit to my preference being for one thread, personally.

Well to me this thread is for HDTV reception. No matter how it is you receive it. If you want a SAT only thread, there are several forums on the Internet that only deal with SAT TV.

Thats odd. As a D* subscriber, I have no interest in Charter, and don't imagine Charter subscribers have much interest in D* or E* either. A whole lot of places have broken their subscriptions into multiple parts. Just because somebody says lets not do it doesn't make it a bad idea.
Secondarily, why not eliminate the first couple thousand posts in this thread? It is getting unwieldy, and the answers that appllied a few years ago don't have much to do with today.Actually, I first joined AVS back when I was debating leaving Charter for D*. Having never had satellite, I found this thread to be very useful in getting information for both sides from people in my local area.

I just moved to a new apartment in Seneca, SC. I am using a Channel Master 4220M antenna connected to a CM 7777 Titan pre-amp to pick up OTA. I get nearly 100% signal strength for WYFF, WSPA, WLOS, WHNS, WYCW, WUNF, and WMYA. I do not get any signal from WNTV. I used tvfool.com's antenna tool and it looks like I'd need to be up at least 2 floors to get a decent line to WNTVs transmitter.

That said, having been a little disappointed in the compression WNTV used for their HD feed (motion artifacts, some pixelation) which are present at 1080i (as opposed to their being gone during their test at 720p at the end of last year), I was wondering if people who read this thread had an opinion on whether WUNF or WNTV has better HD quality. I only had a chance to quickly hook up my antenna to check for signal strengths and won't have my TV set up for a little while and when I checked the signals it wasn't during UNC-TVs HD broadcasting window. Their SD picture quality looked pretty good at the time.

Any opinions on WUNF vs WNTV's HD picture quality would be much appreciated.

I am using a Channel Master 4220M antenna connected to a CM 7777 Titan pre-amp to pick up OTA. [...] I do not get any signal from WNTV.

The 4220M is for UHF only. WNTV's digital signal is on VHF channel 9. Note that although WSPA and WLOS currently have their digital signals on UHF (53 and 56 respectively), when they shut down their VHF analog signals in February they will move their digital signals to their VHF channels (7 and 13).

So you'd better start shopping for a combination VHF/UHF antenna! You might want to look into one of the new Winegard models that do high-VHF (7-13) and UHF, because there are no digital signals on low VHF (2-6) in our area, either now or in the future. Low-VHF requires the largest antenna elements, so omitting it saves a lot of size and weight.

I've already switched from a large combination VHF/UHF antenna to a pair of antennas, one for high VHF and one for UHF, because I don't need either of my low-VHF analog stations any more (WYFF-4 and WBTV-3).

I think the ones with a lot of posts are probably those with mainly OTA HD. I know I was far more interested in this thread when that was what I had.
You are clearly entitled to your opinion about being one thread, and limited posting does sort of tie in with that. How about eliminating a few thousand old posts, however?

Thats odd. As a D* subscriber, I have no interest in Charter, and don't imagine Charter subscribers have much interest in D* or E* either. A whole lot of places have broken their subscriptions into multiple parts. Just because somebody says lets not do it doesn't make it a bad idea.
Secondarily, why not eliminate the first couple thousand posts in this thread? It is getting unwieldy, and the answers that appllied a few years ago don't have much to do with today.

Within this DMA, we're a cornucopia of different HD-types: OTA, Cable, D* and E*. We're not in an area for which OTA is the main source of HD due to Mountains, Trees, etc. I don't recall the intent of this thread being strictly OTA. BTW, I looked through the thousands of posts in this "unwieldy" thread to come to that particular conclusion. You might disagree with the postings here or the direction of this thread, but, to the credit of all of the posters here in relation to HD reception, I believe all of the information and opinions that are provided here has made each one of us better HDTV Consumers.

When I looked through the old posts a few weeks ago for the history of Cable adding HD within this DMA, it was very valuable information as it had dates for which new channels were added and demonstrated how slow the additions were taking place (as reported by the thread's readers like myself). I wouldn't be an advocate of purging that history as it contains valuable info from the thousands of previous posts. Besides, isn't your signature "Anything worth doing, is worth doing to excess."?

Just because somebody says lets do something doesn't mean we all have to jump on the bandwagon. Please feel free to use the D* Thread if you feel the need to keep up with just D* issues: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=914047 (highly recommended reading) . The rest of us will continue educating each other about our experiences with HD via OTA, Cable and Satellite.

Guess the forums went down and we're missing like a week-and-a-half of posts. So I'm not sure if anything interesting has come up with Charter's new channels coming on board on Wednesday.

I'm hoping that they'll be opening up their bandwidth to also add back the HD on Demand for premiums on the 13th as well.

Guess the forums went down and we're missing like a week-and-a-half of posts. So I'm not sure if anything interesting has come up with Charter's new channels coming on board on Wednesday.

I'm hoping that they'll be opening up their bandwidth to also add back the HD on Demand for premiums on the 13th as well.

The bigger question is whether we'll get two more full-time HD channels to fill in the slots for the two temporary NBC Olympics HD Channels when they go away after 8/25. Wishful thinking, I know.

The bigger question is whether we'll get two more full-time HD channels to fill in the slots for the two temporary NBC Olympics HD Channels when they go away after 8/25. Wishful thinking, I know.

They are moving 5 analog stations to digital only on 8/13 so they are making room for the current additions on the same date. Whether it is enough for future changes I do not know. But it seems we are seeing a trend of the analogs being moved to digital to make room for more channels. I am not getting my hopes up after it took almost a year to get more HD channels, but maybe they are going to actually start making some improvements this time.

They are moving 5 analog stations to digital only on 8/13 so they are making room for the current additions on the same date. Whether it is enough for future changes I do not know. But it seems we are seeing a trend of the analogs being moved to digital to make room for more channels. I am not getting my hopes up after it took almost a year to get more HD channels, but maybe they are going to actually start making some improvements this time.

Which 5 analog stations are you referring to? I'm only aware of C-SPAN and INSP moving to digital on this end.

Which 5 analog stations are you referring to? I'm only aware of C-SPAN and INSP moving to digital on this end.

SoapNet, Toon Disney, Inspirational Network, and WE are moving to the digital only (either on the basic or expanded basic) package. It seems to be 6 channels. I must of not counted them correctly earlier.


Channel Current Channel Number Current Tier New Channel Number New Tier Effective Date
CSPAN2 96 Basic 92 Basic (Digital Only) 8/13/2008
E! 69 Exp Basic 60 Exp Basic 8/13/2008
GSN (Game Show) 70 Exp Basic (Digital Only) 144 Exp Basic (Digital Only) 8/13/2008
Inspirational Network 20 Basic 152 Basic (Digital Only) 8/13/2008
National Geographic 72 Exp Basic 70 Exp Basic 8/13/2008
ReelzChannel 156 Digital View 173 Digital View 8/13/2008
Soap Net 68 Exp Basic 84 Exp Basic (Digital Only) 8/13/2008
Toon Disney 60 Exp Basic 83 Exp Basic (Digital Only) 8/13/2008
TV Guide 98 Basic 97 Basic 8/13/2008
Univision 21 Basic 96 Basic 8/13/2008
Women's Entertainment 37 Exp Basic 163 Digital View 8/13/2008

SoapNet, Toon Disney, Inspirational Network, and WE are moving to the digital only (either on the basic or expanded basic) package. It seems to be 6 channels. I must of not counted them correctly earlier.

OK, I see the difference...On the system up here, SoapNet, ToonDisney, WE and GSN have either already migrated to Digital or began in the Digital Tier. The only migrates on the 13th here will be CSPAN2 and INSP.

It appears that WYFF's original Local HD Commercials (i.e. John Knows Weather, High School Playbook, etc.) that had aired since Friday aren't presently airing in HD. I wonder if issues have come up with the new HD Switcher that douglasd5 mentioned a couple of weeks ago. To restate a previous post, they now have the HD Crawl that's presently running info about the upcoming DTV Transition, as well.

The 5 new HD channels on Charter are here. From the Weather Channel (no locals on the 8s though) to stretchoTBS.

Yeah, I checked out the 5 new channels this morning. Didn't have time to check On Demand, though. Does any one know --- along with the HD channel additions --- they added back the HD On Demand for Premiums?

I still wish D* was an option for me. We have seven televisions (only one HD) in our house so the cost of additional receivers makes it prohibative.

Any word on SciFiHD being added to Charter?

The 5 new HD channels on Charter are here. From the Weather Channel (no locals on the 8s though) to stretchoTBS.

I also noticed we go some national type thing when it was supposed to be local on the 8's as well. I still don't get their reasoning for some of the channels they are adding first. Some of the most watched cable networks still aren't added. Why you would add the channels they did over those baffles me.