How far east on Long Island has anyone been able to receive HD transmissions originating from NYC?

I'm in Smithtown; I noticed one poster was in Kings Park but not sure whether he/she was getting any signal.

Any information would be greatly appreciated; I'm setting up my OTA tuner as we speak :)

Also, what would be a good antenna to get; I'd prefer an indoor antenna or attic antenna. I'm presuming I will have to use an amplified antenna to get any OTA signals from the major broadcasters who originate in NYC metro area.

I'm in Selden. Member Lomax is out in Center Moriches. He must have the record!

2 story house Attic mounted CM 4228 pointed to NYC, RS VU-190 XR pointed to CT, CM 7777 Preamp.

CBS 75-90
FOX 80-90
ABC 7.1 50-75
ABC 8.1 50-75
PBS 21.1 50-75

Finally a thread for us in Suffolk. Here's my rundown:

Voom
Direct TV HD- Sony Sat-HD300
Rat Shack UV120 Antenna on 10 foot mast on roof of 2 story house
CM7777 pre-amp
CM rotator (just installed yesterday)

I get all the locals from NYC except NBC and WPIX
ABC is hit or miss, but with the rotator I hope to be able to get a better lock by fudging with it (a lot easier than going on the roof;) ), but can usually get a good signal from CT ABC. I think NY ABC is of better quality, probably because it is an originating feed not a downlink from a network feed.

Scott

BenDover
I'm in St. James. I can get ABC,FOX CBS, WLIW and sometimes NBC. I have attic mounted Channel master 4228 with 7777 pre amp

I have a place out near East Hampton and doubt that it's possible to get anything but was thinking about taking my CM Stealthtenna w/amp. I used it exclusively pointed at WTNH at 50mi distance with excellent results but no longer need it now that WABC is live. I doubt I would get a blip from NYC out at the east end but maybe something Providence, not sure if they have any HD channels though.

All you western Suffolk people got it easy.

I get CBS 70s but jump around a bit
FOX 60s UPN who cares its garbage
ABC 40-50
NBC 15-20 no lock
WB 5 Blip Zilch
PBS 60s

I get ABC CT 95 or better
UPN CT 85 Better UPN but still not HD
PBS CT 70s

All With a CM 4228, CM 7777 Pre-amp, a RS Rotor
and RS 40ft telescoping mast on on top of two story home.

Oh darn, I'm sorry, I've been so busy with the holiday and researching hardware that I missed the responses in this post.

I just ordered a Winegard HD-8200P and AP-8275 preamp; I was planning on mounting on the roof on top of a 10' mast but now I'm wondering if I can get away with an attic mount (mainly to avoid the wife's scorn...heh)

I'll post my results...I'm hoping to be able to pull in all available channels.

FYI.

Should start the snowball rolling down the mountain. I expect us early adopters will be getting lots of calls from friends and family members!

I can only imagine what it will be like trying to talk my mother through hooking up component video!:D

http://www.newsday.com/business/ny-hdyv1130,0,2101395.story?coll=ny-top-headlines

In reading through this, I'm a little disappointed they don't mention the now "free" HD content coming from NYC. All four major networks now broadcasting and available for as little as a $40 indoor antenna for some. Mentioning $750 for Voom may serve to scare some away.

Originally posted by sresnik
Finally a thread for us in Suffolk. Here's my rundown:

Voom
Direct TV HD- Sony Sat-HD300
Rat Shack UV120 Antenna on 10 foot mast on roof of 2 story house
CM7777 pre-amp
CM rotator (just installed yesterday)

I get all the locals from NYC except NBC and WPIX
ABC is hit or miss, but with the rotator I hope to be able to get a better lock by fudging with it (a lot easier than going on the roof;) ), but can usually get a good signal from CT ABC. I think NY ABC is of better quality, probably because it is an originating feed not a downlink from a network feed.

Scott

Scott, was your OTA antenna installed by Voom, or did you have it before you got Voom?

seldenpat, thanks for the info. interesting, I think we are ahead of the "curve"

F

seldenpat,

My Antenna was installed by voom on a 5 foot mast. After the bad wind we had a few weeks ago it blew over (not off) so I picked up another set of mounts, the pre-amp and the 10foot mast. I installed everything and added a footing to the roof for stability. I was able to get Voom to pick up the cost of the pre-amp. I then called the installer on his off day to install the rotor on the side, as I didn't want to try running the wire myself..

Scott

Originally posted by sresnik
seldenpat,

My Antenna was installed by voom on a 5 foot mast. After the bad wind we had a few weeks ago it blew over (not off) so I picked up another set of mounts, the pre-amp and the 10foot mast. I installed everything and added a footing to the roof for stability. I was able to get Voom to pick up the cost of the pre-amp. I then called the installer on his off day to install the rotor on the side, as I didn't want to try running the wire myself..

Scott

Nice! Mastic's a nice poke away!

sresnick, i would be interested in getting the installers contact info; i was going to install myself but if there are actually people who do antenna installs i just may pony up the greenbacks and save myself some headaches :)

I'm out in Bellport, LI and I am able to receive WCBS, Fox/Upn, and WLIW very well. I've been receiving WABC intermittently, but I think that's because they are still tinkering with their signal. I haven't been able to receive WNBC yet, though.

Although I'm not the farthest from NYC, as you can see in the attached picture, I am using a smallish antenna that is sitting on the GROUND. I am also using a Winegard 4800 UHF preamp. I originally installed this antenna with the hope of receiving WTNH from Connecticut. I was pleasently surprised that I could receive all of the stations transmitting from NYC with it.

NYC and Long Island DTV Signals:
WCBS
WNBC
WNYW / WWOR
WABC
WLIW
WLNY
WFTY
But I can't get:
WNET & WPIX (Due to VHF Antenna pointed toward CT)

Connecticut DTV Signals:
WTNH
WFSB
WHPX
WCTX
WEDN

But I can't get:
WTXX

I use a CM4228 (UHF), RS (VHF) Antenna
with a CM7777 Mast Mounted Pre-Amp, a RS Rotor,
which is a top a 10ft Tripod with about 10 foot mast.

Originally posted by Keith
But I can't get:
WNET & WPIX (Due to VHF Antenna pointed toward CT)
Even if you had a VHF pointed towards NYC you would probably not get these stations. WNET is actually on UHF channel 61 at low power and pointed to NJ. WPIX is on VHF channel 12 but only at 125 watts so reception in Kings Park would be difficult

Originally posted by Ed Barclay
Even if you had a VHF pointed towards NYC you would probably not get these stations. WNET is actually on UHF channel 61 at low power and pointed to NJ. WPIX is on VHF channel 12 but only at 125 watts so reception in Kings Park would be difficult

WTXX is also on VHF 12 so he'll get one or the other but not both WPIXDT and WTXXDT. Then again who needs 2 WB's. I would point a directional UHF antenna toward the CT channel from Kings Park. I had no problems picking up WTXX before WPIX went live with a silver sensor in Roslyn. Since channel 12 is at the top of the VHF band, UHF antennas seem to work fine.

Since there are some people here that have already suffered through some of the pain maybe i can get some advice.

if i put up two antennas, one i would obviously point towards nyc but what would be the optimal direction for the second antenna (assume for now that i would use my large cm3671 to pick up nyc and the 8 bay bowtie to pick up anything else that might be within my grasp)...thanx in advance

btw, they will both be mounted on rotators but i was interested in pointing them primarily in one orientation to pick up as many as possible.

Has anyone had a hard time picking up WLIW's signal on Long Island. I'm in northern Nassau County and have had trouble getting the signal over the past few days. I'm using a Motorola VOOM STB and not picking it up. Haven't tried hooking up the SAmsung OTA STB yet to see if it's a signal problem or a STB problem. Anyone?

I'm in in Port Jefferson Station, about 58 miles from NYC.
I get:
NYC:
CBS 90s
NBC no lock
ABC 25 no lock
Fox 70s
PBS (21) 90s
CT:
ABC (WTNH) 95
PBS 50s
WB (20) 70s

I have a CM 4228 with a CM rotator and CM7777 pre-amp
on a 2 story house.
Does anyone in Suffolk get WNBC-DT on a consistent basis.
Since WTNH (ABC) is so good I don't bother with WABC which rarely locks.

- Dan

I'm in in Center Moriches, about 65 miles from NYC.
I get:

NYC:
CBS 90s...............It is a bit picky about pointing
NBC 15.................I get blips all the time but no picture yet
ABC 55.................When they are on the air and no messing up them selfs
Fox 80s................No problems just no HD
PBS (21) 90s........No problems ever

CT:
ABC (WTNH) 98....Easy get it with my UHF antenna fine
PBS 75s................Had Ct PBS for a long time now
WCTX UPN 80.......Just wish they would spend the money on HD gear
WB (20) 10...........Blip thats it no pic ever
WFSB 20 .............Few times get a pic
PAX RI 45.............Some pax channel only get it if i spin the ant. way east.
TV55 100.............No HD IND wast of bandwith
UNIVION(23) 75...I do not speak Spanish

I have a CM 4228 with a CM rotator and CM7777 pre-amp
on a 2 story house mounted on a 40ft RS telescoping mast. Also a Dat-75 mounted just below for looks.

"Does anyone in Suffolk get WNBC-DT on a consistent basis?" NO not me

anyone on long island able to receive WB programming? where are they broadcasting from?

i seem to be getting the other major networks ok, either from nyc or ct but i have yet to see the wb show up anywhere...maybe if i knew where to point my antenna. whatever is listed on antennaweb.org must be out of my range (roof mounted cm3671 w/7777 preamp).

i plan on popping my 8-bay bowtie up on the roof this weekend (or maybe not with this super-frigid weather), will a bowtie give me better reception? i've seen some indicated that bowties are the way to go, even though cm's site shows the cm3671 as having the furthest reach.

Originally posted by BenDover
anyone on long island able to receive WB programming? where are they broadcasting from?
Your location would have been helpful. WPIX-DT is on VHF channel 12 from the Empire State Building. They are only at 125 watts and are difficult to receive. If you are in Suffolk County I would not even try.

sorry, i'm in smithtown...i thought it was in my profile and appeared on my posts but i am mistaken...

thanx for the info.

do they plan on bumping up the power?

Originally posted by BenDover
do they plan on bumping up the power? Yes, and they will go back to their original channel 33. Hopefully by the summer on the Empire State Building antenna combiner project.

I'm in Patchogue. I have a Winegard 9095 w/Ap4800 pre-amp on rotor. 2 story house. Get ABC, CBS, Fox, CH21pbs, CH23-1, CH57-1 fine. Could turn the rotor to get some of the CT stuff in HD but not much reason to. Also have VHF-H yagi to get ABC from new haven but don't really need that much now that ABC-NY is on the air. Would like to see more OTA HD. Love the football.

the football is spectacular, i just wish i had finished my basement remodel in time for the superbowl as then i can set up my 57" lcos toshiba and watch everyone's jaw drop when they see the bowl in hdtv glory...truly breathtaking!

abc from ct is usually a stronger signal so since you have a rotor you might want to use it to aim the antenna over there while watching monday night football :)

this damned weather almost took down my antenna. it is leaning over and it doesn't appear as though either of the chimney mount straps has "broken" but something is definitely amiss since the pole is leaning over as a result of something wrong with the top strap.

roof was a sheet of ice yesterday so i couldn't get up there to troubleshoot...@#%! :)

I am contemplating the purchase of an Channel Master 4228 mounted on my roof for OTA reception. Do I need an antenna rotor? or is this sufficent for the majority of channels.

Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by capmeo
I am contemplating the purchase of an Channel Master 4228 mounted on my roof for OTA reception. Do I need an antenna rotor? or is this sufficent for the majority of channels.

Thanks in advance.

I'm wondering the same thing. Aside from getting CT channels, the rotor may help to fine tune anything coming from NYC. For the most part, I think the signals are only a few degrees apart; so I'm going to try without the rotor first.

Is the 4228 the best distance antenna out there? or are there equivalents?

My research into this purchase led me to the 4228, it has great range for a UHF antenna (60 miles). It is the 8 bay version compared to the Channel Master 4 bay (4221). Allot of good reviews and positive posts on its performance. I probably could of went with the 4 bay but I would rather have more than less, just to be sure.

I questioned the purchase of the rotor with the same thought process as you, being that the major network channels that I watch are within a few degrees of each other, I do not know if I need it.

I just purchased the 4228 with a 7775 Channel Master pre-amp. I will install it shortly and let you know the results.

Highly reccomend a rotor. I'm in Garden City and I need to move it pretty often for the NY stations. Don't know why but the picture can get finnicky. Maybe when everyone is full power it won't be needed.

i recommend the rotor as well; in fact, i have both a cm4228 and a cm3671, both with r/c rotors...i just haven't mounted the 4228 as of yet...it may be possible that once i mount the 4228 i will not have to aim either one since my intent was to point one towards nyc and the other towards ct.

I intstalled the 4228 and the radio shack antenna rotator today. The antenna is roof mounted and I did not install the channel master pre-amp 7775 due to it not being delivered because of backorder. I checked ny OTA signal meter on the Samsung ts-160 and here are my results:

CBS-2.1-100%
Fox- 5.1-100%
WWOR- 5.2-100%
ABC- 7.1- 76%
WLIW- 21.1- 77%
NBC- 4.1- 70%

I am extremely pleased with the results and the picture quality is excellent.

Originally posted by capmeo
I intstalled the 4228 and the radio shack antenna rotator today. The antenna is roof mounted and I did not install the channel master pre-amp 7775 due to it not being delivered because of backorder. I checked ny OTA signal meter on the Samsung ts-160 and here are my results:

CBS-2.1-100%
Fox- 5.1-100%
WWOR- 5.2-100%
ABC- 7.1- 76%
WLIW- 21.1- 77%
NBC- 4.1- 70%

I am extremely pleased with the results and the picture quality is excellent.

Those numbers are fantastic. What part of LI are you located?

I am located in Massapequa,LI.

that's great capmeo; i don't have nearly those numbers but i think it is because a tree stands directly in my line of sight...time to trim/remove the tree :)

I am in Brentwood, LI

I also have a CM 4228 with a CM rotator and CM7777 pre-amp. I have a RS antenna and it is mounted on a 7' Mast on top of a 1 story house thanks to Variety TV installing it.

I have a Samsung T-160 that D* replaced. I use to have the E-86.

Yesterday I got a Hitachi 57xwx20b and the following channels I am getting
are:

CBS 2-1 - Signal Strength 100%
NBC 4-1 - Signal Strength 45%
FOX 5-1 - Signal Strength 100%
UPN 5-2 - Signal Strength 100%
ABC 7-1 - Signal Strength 90 to 100%
ABC 7-2 - Ditto ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
ABC 8-2 - From Connecticut - Signal Strength 85%
WPIX 11-1 - Signal Strength varies from 10 to 30%
WPIX 11-2 - (Spanish speaking WPIX) - Ditto ^^^
WLIW 21-1 - Signal Strength 100%
WLIW 21-2 - Ditto ^^^^^^^^^^
WXTV 41-1 - Univision? Signal Strength 55%
49-1 Through 49-5(PBS Stations) from Connecticut - Signal Strength 70%
WLNY 55-1 - Signal Strength 100%
59-1(UPN) from Connecticut - Signal Strength 70%
67-1 and 68-1 (Spanish Stations) - Telefutura? Signal Strength - 35%

hmmm, maybe i better get up on my rooftop this weekend and finally install the cm4228. unless it is due to the tree in my line of sight, i should be able to get the same numbers in smithtown as you are getting in brentwood and i am not seeing anywhere near 100% using the cm3671 w/7777 preamp.

or maybe it is just the fact that i am using pc-based hdtv tuner cards (accessDTV, myHD -120 and HiPix -200) and you are reporting numbers from a stb...i've been meaning to pick one up before they start shipping in the broadcast flag crippled manner...

capmeo, I'm also in Massapequa and I don't have a rotor. I have pretty much the same numbers with my antenna facing ESB. Every once in a while NBC drops a bit, but they're not truely stable on the GE building. How much does your antenna actually rotate when tuning from ESB to GE to Conde Nast? They are all in the same general area.

KenA,

Very little, I installed the rotor due to the type of mount I utilized, an old Dish Satellite Mount on my roof which I performed some "surgery" on to hold my mast and the 4228. It came out excellent with a good line of sight, very secure, and no new holes.

I am getting use to the rotor and I can see it effectiveness when fine tuning distant channels.

I never received my pre-amp so I did not install one. Does anyone think I should still install a pre-amp? or could installing a pre-amp hurt my reception?

i think i've read somewhere that a preamp can degrade your reception if it actually isn't needed and at the time the reasoning seemed sound but i cannot be certain.

I believe I heard the same about the pre-amp and I am satisfied with my current reception, so I am not going to take a chance.

Thanks

well, you can always return it; maybe try an in-line preamp as opposed to a mast mounted model just to see the effect(s)

Anybody know a central suffolk vendor that carries the 4228? or a website that can ensure delivery before the super bowl?

i think www.lnl.com is at least on long island.

www.solidsignal.com has been great for me and would definitely deliver before the superbowl...leaving you the task of installing it :)

I used Solid Signal for my 4228 and was extremely satisfied with the purchase. I also heard good things about LNL. I would recommend doing the install yourself, no one will pay more attention to detail. I had a great time doing my install. In my experience the so called professionals do not know what they were talking about when it comes to HDTV. I found everything I needed on this forum.

Well, lnl's web site says its backordered. Maybe i'll try calling. Otherwise, it looks like SolidSignal - although 2nd day air is a little pricey. Oh well, the price one must pay to watch football, I guess ;). Shoulda looked into this last week *before* I ordered a HDTV (new one coming 1/25 :D).

if you order now, or the other day :), solidsignal would get it to you by friday...at least that has been my exerience...if i order on the weekend (say saturday or sunday) it is usually processed right away...but if you want to be certain, then two-day delivery is the way...yes, it is pricey...my only real complaint with ss, there shipping costs are a little unreasonable...but overall i usually pay the slight premium to have peace of mind...

good luck on getting it all up and running by 2/1 ... don't forget to order the beer and hero early :)

BenDover, nice screen name. Why didn't you use MikeHunt or SimoreButts?;)

mine was more appropriate at the time i adopted it; i fealt like i was being shafted by my isp, optonline, so BenDover was born in the dslreports forums :)

Well, I got the CM-4228, CM-9521 rotator, and CM-7778 UHF/VHF booster connected into a Samsung SIR-T351 STB and now have HD signal coming from NYC (2/5/7/9). The rotator is not yet working as I need to bring the wires up into the attic where the antenna is mounted (2-story house). I think I can get channel 4 once I'm able to fine adjust the direction ( get some signal but doesnt seem to lock in).

Thanks to everyone for all the advice. One more Q. I have the rotator sitting on the attic floor with the bottom of the antenna mounted as close to rotator as possible. I'm about 2" shy of clearing the outer corners of the wire mesh with the roof rafters and was wondering if I bent them over would it impact reception at all? How important is the back wire mesh?

Thanks again.

Mike
Setauket, NY

Originally posted by DumbLuck
Well, I got the CM-4228, CM-9521 rotator, and CM-7778 UHF/VHF booster connected into a Samsung SIR-T351 STB and now have HD signal coming from NYC (2/5/7/9). The rotator is not yet working as I need to bring the wires up into the attic where the antenna is mounted (2-story house). I think I can get channel 4 once I'm able to fine adjust the direction ( get some signal but doesnt seem to lock in).

Thanks to everyone for all the advice. One more Q. I have the rotator sitting on the attic floor with the bottom of the antenna mounted as close to rotator as possible. I'm about 2" shy of clearing the outer corners of the wire mesh with the roof rafters and was wondering if I bent them over would it impact reception at all? How important is the back wire mesh?

Thanks again.

Mike
Setauket, NY
Mike ,
What signal strength are you getting from WABC-DT Channel 7?
I'm in the next town over (Port Jeff) and I can't get 4 or 7 at all.
I use the rotor to get WTNH-DT in New Haven and it comes in over 90%.
Channel 4 is doubtful, even with a rotor. I think someone in Brentwood is getting it, but that's as far out as I've heard for NBC.

-Dan

Originally posted by Dannygee
Mike ,
What signal strength are you getting from WABC-DT Channel 7?
I'm in the next town over (Port Jeff) and I can't get 4 or 7 at all.
I use the rotor to get WTNH-DT in New Haven and it comes in over 90%.
Channel 4 is doubtful, even with a rotor. I think someone in Brentwood is getting it, but that's as far out as I've heard for NBC.

-Dan

2 (2-1), 5 (5-1) and 9 (5-2) give me 8 of 10 bars. 7 (7-1) yields 7 bars. 28 UHF (NBC?) flashes at 5 bars - I assume this flashing to mean it cant lock in.

The antenna direction was set by hand - I will try the rotor when I get the wiring installed. If I have no luck with that, I intend to mount on the roof to get an additional 15 feet up or so - this will remove the roofline as an obstacle as well as get a little higher above the trees. But that'll have to wait for the next thaw :p.

Here is my setup....

I use a RS 120 Antenna
I have a CM 9521 Rotor
CM 0747 Preamp

When it goes from the Preamp I split it using a 2GHZ splitter....
One end goes to the back of the TV (Hitachi 57XWX20B)
I scanned and got the following:

WCBS-DT 2-1
WNBC-DT 4-1
WNYW-DT 5-1
WWOR-DT 5-2
WABC-HD 7-1
WABC-SD 7-2
WTNH - 8-2(CONNECTICUT)
WPIX-DT 11-1
WPIX-DT 11-2(THIS BRINGS IN 5.1CH AUDIO)
WPIX-DT 12-1
WLIW-HD 21-1
WLIW-SD 21-2
23-1 (TELEFUTURA)?
51-1 (PBS)?
WPIX-DT 75-1

All of these go through the TV and I get approx. 75% to 93% on all these channels.

Now the other line goes to the Samsung T-160
I get all the channels that I mentioned above plus:
41-1
40-1 Both Univision
49-1 through 5 PBS from Connecticut
WLNYDT 55-1
WFTYDT 67-1
WFUTDT 68-1

All of them come in stronger at 90% plus....

That's all for now...

Chrome,

That's pretty good - where are you located?

I live in Brentwood off the LIE

As for WB 11-1 and NBC 4-1 the signal comes in at 35 to 45% strength only...

hmmm, there must be something to the "tuner" ... atm i am only using pc-based hdtv tuners and i can't get the channels you get with those signal strengths...i'm in smithtown, so slightly further but not that much...

those channel numbers you listed, they are "virtual" correct?

i have never been able to get wb and i think i can get nbc...have to recheck...wb is apparently due to the fact that they are broadcasting at low power...hope they boost the signal eventually...

think i may start looking into a higher end dtv tuner (stb)...how are the high end sonys and/or samsungs?

the channels mentioned are exactly the way the tv lists them
i feed my ota cable into the tv and then scan them and the listing is what i get
i showed that channel 2-1 had no DD 5.1?
it has a little wording that says if it is DD or not
strange because when I went through my T-160 it said it was 5.1

Originally posted by chrome
the channels mentioned are exactly the way the tv lists them
i feed my ota cable into the tv and then scan them and the listing is what i get
i showed that channel 2-1 had no DD 5.1?
it has a little wording that says if it is DD or not
strange because when I went through my T-160 it said it was 5.1

depends on the program...csi on cbs is definitely 5.1, so too was the superbowl, i think :)

Hello, i had a quick question i was hoping someone out here in Long Island might be able to help me with. I am in selden and am looking to get HDTV programming. I currently have Directv and had the installer out here yesterday to upgrade to the HD side of it. however, my neighbor has a huge tree that obstructs my view for the Directv HD satellite.

Does anyone know if the Dish Network or alternative satellite provider has HD programming on a satellite that is higher?

i don't want to have to consider getting cablevision :(

thank you!

Where is the dish located? I had the same problem but I had the tech do a line and sight again and found out that it had to get mounted on a pole next to my house. If they mount it with a pole will it still not work for you?

Is there anyone in the northport/huntington area using ota ? i would like to here some opinions/advice.

well, i had a new Directv guy come out this weekend, and he hooked it up, no problem!
he also said that beginning in march directv will start adding ota to their installs in long island for HD. reason having to do with the high powered transmitter being installed on the empire state building and up and running around that time...

call Variety TV in Massapequa they can hook you up just like they did to me and i get tons of OTA thanks to them and I live in Brentwood, LI

Originally posted by pickleps
well, i had a new Directv guy come out this weekend, and he hooked it up, no problem!
he also said that beginning in march directv will start adding ota to their installs in long island for HD. reason having to do with the high powered transmitter being installed on the empire state building and up and running around that time...

that sounds like great news about the high-powered transmitter atop the ESB. I wonder what networks/stations will be broadcasting using that transmitter.

as far as this directv installer hooking you up no problem, when i first read your post about not being to get hd even though you were already getting sd from directv i didn't understand since the dish is basically pointing to the same point in the sky so if you were getting sd you should have been able to add hd eaily. but who knows, maybe i'm missing something :)

ben -
your completely right. it was just that the first installer that directv sent out didn't seem to think it would work so didn't do anything. thankfully i had someone a little more professional come out over the weekend. he pretty much said what you write exactly :)

NBC (WVIT-35) will be transmitting out of CT on April 1 I believe...hopefully will be able to get a better signal...has anyone picked up any "test" broadcasts from them?

Does anyone know if they are testing at this time?

the titantv site indicates they are testing and so does the fcc site

I will try to point to that direction tonight and see what i can pick up, lately the T360 samsung does not pick up certain channels in connecticut while my old e86 picked up everything...

i just picked up a samsung t165; will see if that gets me better reception than these pci cards

no good i cannot get nbc from conn
i guess they are running low power?
i can get all the pbs and abc stuff but not nbc...

they should be going to full power on april 1 ... let's cross our fingers :)

Station Search Details
Call Sign: WVIT
Facility Id: 74170
Community of License: NEW BRITAIN, CT
Service: TV
Fac Type: TV STATION
Status: LICENSED
Status Date:
Frequency: 566
Channel: 30
Digital Status:
Lic Expir: 04/01/2007
Licensee: OUTLET BROADCASTING, INC
Address: 1422 NEW BRITAIN AVENUE
Address 2:
City: WEST HARTFORD
State: CT
Zip Code: 06110
Phone Number: (860) 521-3030
Engineering Data View Engineering Data
Call Sign History View Call Sign History
Digital Television Information
DTV Call Sign: WVIT-DT
DTV Status: CP OFF AIR
DTV Channel: 35

i think i am too far from them
i see on antennaweb i am 65 miles away
the rest of the connecticut channels are 45 miles away, pbs, upn, and abc

I can get NBC out here in setauket but the voice lags a bit. Is this due to signal strength, or are those closer experiencing same thing?

wow, i can't get nbc at all from smithtown...that is why i'm hoping i can get the ct station when it goes live

I was never able to pickup NBC in Holbrook. Fortunately, as of 2/24, NBC is available on Cablevision's iO. One more local to go - ABC and I will be able to get my antenna down...

NBC was always a pipe dream. I got it once for 1/2 hour during some major tropo.

Now with NBC and Bravo, have 19 Distinct HD Channels (I'm counting FOX).

ESPN-HD (D*)
Discovery-HD (D*)
HDNet (D*)
HDNet Movies (D*)
DirecTV Special Events-HD (D*)
HBO-HD (D*)
SHO-HD (D*)
CBS-HD (OTA, CV, D*))
PBS-HD (OTA, CV)
NBC-HD (CV)
FOX-DT (OTA, CV, D*)
ABC-HD (OTA(2))
INHD (CV)
Bravo-HD (CV)
Cinemax-HD (CV)
Starz-HD (CV)
The Movie Channel-HD (CV)
MSG-HD (CV)
FoxSportsNY-HD (CV)

BenDover,
Did the Samsung improve your reception at all?

Originally posted by repoman
BenDover,
Did the Samsung improve your reception at all?

I am sad to say, no.

I was hoping that its tuner would have more sensitivity and that it would cope with multipath but it did no better or worse than my hdtv pci tuner cards. oddly enough, the oldest card in the bunch, at least the bunch i have, does the best...the hipix...go figure

Thanks BO, was thinking of doing the same thing. Interestingly, the latest drivers for my MyHD-100 seemed to have improved my reception pretty dramatically. Not sure why but not complaining.

Originally posted by seldenpat
NBC was always a pipe dream. I got it once for 1/2 hour during some major tropo.

Now with NBC and Bravo, have 19 Distinct HD Channels (I'm counting FOX).

ESPN-HD (D*)
Discovery-HD (D*)
HDNet (D*)
HDNet Movies (D*)
DirecTV Special Events-HD (D*)
HBO-HD (D*)
SHO-HD (D*)
CBS-HD (OTA, CV, D*))
PBS-HD (OTA, CV)
NBC-HD (CV)
FOX-DT (OTA, CV, D*)
ABC-HD (OTA(2))
INHD (CV)
Bravo-HD (CV)
Cinemax-HD (CV)
Starz-HD (CV)
The Movie Channel-HD (CV)
MSG-HD (CV)
FoxSportsNY-HD (CV)

On CV you have to subscribe to Silver IO to get all those channels?

i'm usually always out in front on the bleeding edge with new technology/services, etc., but my cablevision bill just gets me so irrate...they should go back to regulating the cable industry :)

Originally posted by chrome
On CV you have to subscribe to Silver IO to get all those channels?

No, you do not have to subsribe to Silver. I pay less than Silver. Runs about $57 pre tax.

really what is the deal you choose? if you dont mind me asking?

Originally posted by chrome
really what is the deal you choose? if you dont mind me asking?

Not at all.

Broadcast Basic + iO = 23 (that gives locals, INHD, BravoHD+)
MSG = 2
FSNY = 2
Starz = 10
TMC = 10
Cinemax = 10

Total=57

I get NBC pretty well, just the lip-sync issue and occasional drop out. I have the 4228 and the CM VHF/UHF preamp (forget the model). I got the dual amp since I may eventually hook in a VHF antenna for some of the local VHF HDs.

ABC lately has been totally off at times. Anybody else seeing this?

i can't get nbc at all from nyc and abc i've only rarely been able to tune, and even then, not too well...i have to get abc from ct...

surprised you are getting nbc from setauket...i must be in some "dead zone" ... i know sprint pcs sucks at my house :)

I live in Brentwood and I don't get NBC except 5 to 7 AM, after that it dies till the next day...

Originally posted by seldenpat
Not at all.

Broadcast Basic + iO = 23 (that gives locals, INHD, BravoHD+)
MSG = 2
FSNY = 2
Starz = 10
TMC = 10
Cinemax = 10

Total=57
You left out STB fee!

Originally posted by KenA
You left out STB fee!

I lumped it into the Broadcast Basic. Here is my actual bill for anyone who cares. I did, however, leave out the taxes and fees.

Broadcast Basic - $10.50
iO Package - $9.95
Cinemax - $9.95
TMC - $9.95
Starz! w/Encore - $9.95
Fox Sports NY - $1.95
MSG - $1.95
1 iO Digital Box (at $2.95 each and remote(s) at $0.29 ea) - $3.24
Taxes and Fees - $3.28

Total Cable TV/iO - $60.72

My neighborhood is pretty flat with no obvious obstacles over the horizon. My ant is about 25' above ground level and I took care to limit RG6 cable run to about 40' with no splitters.

Anybody know when iO will offer NBC/ABC DT? And what is minimum services needed to get them?

Originally posted by DumbLuck
My neighborhood is pretty flat with no obvious obstacles over the horizon. My ant is about 25' above ground level and I took care to limit RG6 cable run to about 40' with no splitters.

Anybody know when iO will offer NBC/ABC DT? And what is minimum services needed to get them?

They are already offering NBC DT. ABC is still anyone's guess. You get them as long as you have Broadcast Basic and HD-iO.

Originally posted by seldenpat
I lumped it into the Broadcast Basic. Here is my actual bill for anyone who cares. I did, however, leave out the taxes and fees.

Broadcast Basic - $10.50
iO Package - $9.95
Cinemax - $9.95
TMC - $9.95
Starz! w/Encore - $9.95
Fox Sports NY - $1.95
MSG - $1.95
1 iO Digital Box (at $2.95 each and remote(s) at $0.29 ea) - $3.24
Taxes and Fees - $3.28

Total Cable TV/iO - $60.72

D* is almost the same price....
I just received my wonderful news that they are going up 3 bucks...

Any news on NBC in connecticut or when NBC and WPIX going full power in April?

Originally posted by chrome
Any news on NBC in connecticut or when NBC and WPIX going full power in April?

I got WVIT-DT (NBC)channel 30-1 in Hartford last night. Strong signal , about 85%. Jay Leno was great in HD! Anybody else getting this station on LI?
-Dan

Originally posted by Dannygee
I got WVIT-DT (NBC)channel 30-1 in Hartford last night. Strong signal , about 85%. Jay Leno was great in HD! Anybody else getting this station on LI?
WVIT-DT has been doing a fantastic job and has a strong signal on the North Shore of LI since they signed-on late last week.

WTIC-DT (FOX-61) also came up on digital 31 early last week. According to the data on the FCC website, their signal radiation pattern is directional to the North-East (away from us) but they can probably be received by many on LI nonetheless. We're trying to help them get the aspect ratio of their network pass-through feed of FOX widescreen straightened out in The Somewhat Official Hartford and all of CT Connecticut HDTV thread! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=315169&perpage=20&pagenumber=49)

Issues and comments about reception have been posted there.
----
Paul

Originally posted by PaulL
WVIT-DT has been doing a fantastic job and has a strong signal on the North Shore of LI since they signed-on late last week.

WTIC-DT (FOX-61) also came up on digital 31 early last week. According to the data on the FCC website, their signal radiation pattern is directional to the North-East (away from us) but they can probably be received by many on LI nonetheless. We're trying to help them get the aspect ratio of their network pass-through feed of FOX widescreen straightened out in The Somewhat Official Hartford and all of CT Connecticut HDTV thread! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=315169&perpage=20&pagenumber=49)

Issues and comments about reception have been posted there.
----
Paul

yes, i can confirm that here in smithtown i finally have a source for nbc...wooooohoooooo! :D i'm picking it up on 35 though...

i can't get fox (tried 61 and 31...maybe it is on some other channel for me...i'll start scanning)...

[edit]

yup, fcc site indicates channels 31 and 61.

with that pattern (see pic) though, i won't be able to pick it up here in smithtown...maybe at my house in the hamptons...will have to try this summer...
http://www.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/polarplot?temp=58958&rotate=0.00&p0=.941&p10=.937&p20=.963&p30=.985&p40=.992&p50=.987&p60=.966&p70=.938&p80=.935&p90=.963&p100=.989&p110=.994&p120=.987&p130=.974&p140=.921&p150=.811&p160=.695&p170=.604&p180=.504&p190=.363&p200=.235&p210=.190&p220=.195&p230=.193&p240=.228&p250=.348&p260=.495&p270=.602&p280=.691&p290=.803&p300=.917&p310=.979&p320=.993&p330=.999&p340=.996&p350=.972

The FCC site also mentions that the WTIC-DT pattern is rotated 40 degrees. I assume that means the major lobe is toward the NE.

The physical channels are 35 for WVIT-DT (NBC-30) and 31 for WTIC-DT (FOX-61).

WTIC-DT may have PSIP issues with some STBs. They're "advertising" their analog channel mapping (61.0) in their stream. I asked them to stop doing this as I've never seen it before, but so far they have ignored my requests. My DTC100 is fine with it, but it adds it to my channel list when I've never tuned it in. So I know that it's coming from the DT.
----
Paul

Originally posted by PaulL
The FCC site also mentions that the WTIC-DT pattern is rotated 40 degrees. I assume that means the major lobe is toward the NE.

The physical channels are 35 for WVIT-DT (NBC-30) and 31 for WTIC-DT (FOX-61).

WTIC-DT may have PSIP issues with some STBs. They're "advertising" their analog channel mapping (61.0) in their stream. I asked them to stop doing this as I've never seen it before, but so far they have ignored my requests. My DTC100 is fine with it, but it adds it to my channel list when I've never tuned it in. So I know that it's coming from the DT.
----
Paul

that plot already has the rotation applied...

that psip issue may be why my myhd card is tuning the analog (61)...i'll have my new sammy dlp this weekend and will hook up my sammy t165; if fox from ct is obtainable, i hope that one of my tuners will be able to get it...if not, i get a decent enough signal from nyc, although it certainly could be better :)

Originally posted by BenDover
that plot already has the rotation applied...
Doh!... Right at the top of the page of the link you provided it says; "Any specified rotation has already been applied to the plotted pattern".

I thought I saw one there that wasn't rotated at one time.

Sorry,
Paul

BTW, How's Eileen?

she's good, thanks for asking :)

Originally posted by seldenpat
Not at all.

Broadcast Basic + iO = 23 (that gives locals, INHD, BravoHD+)
MSG = 2
FSNY = 2
Starz = 10
TMC = 10
Cinemax = 10

Total=57
Hey Pat. I just dropped my package down to Broadcast Basic and lost INHD. Are you sill getting it? Should I give them a call?

Is anyone getting anything way out east in the hamptons or is it just too far?

Originally posted by KenA
Hey Pat. I just dropped my package down to Broadcast Basic and lost INHD. Are you sill getting it? Should I give them a call?

Interesting...I lost mine last night, but I called them and they seemed to have no issue turning it back on. I haven't checked it yet, though. I'll let you know if it's back on when I get home.

Originally posted by rcliff
Is anyone getting anything way out east in the hamptons or is it just too far?

PM Lomax. He's in Moriches and gets some decent reception OTA from NYC and Connecticut.

Originally posted by seldenpat
PM Lomax. He's in Moriches and gets some decent reception OTA from NYC and Connecticut.

Moriches is close to mid island. I'm talking about way out near East Hampton. The major NYC stations are 98 miles away so I assume there's no chance. WTNH is 53mi so maybe that's possible.

maybe this summer i'll give it a shot; my house out there is all buttoned up for the winter.

i have an extra cm4228 in the basement that i have been planning on installing out there on a rotator; i don't hold much hope for receiving anything from nyc, but ct is surely in range. may even get more from ct out there than i do at my main home. time will tell, unless we have a warm spell and i'm bored; not likely i'll be leaving my house though b/c i just ordered voom and it gets installed on 3/20 :D

I've got a CM Stealthtenna that I was using in my Nassau house's attic to pull in WTNH 50mi away but no longer need it since WABC went live. I think I'll take that out east to see if I can get WTNH from there. Ben, I'm in Amagansett. How far out are you? I'd be interested to hear about your results with the CM4228.

about a half mile east of the shinnecock canal on the north shore of the southern fork...

Originally posted by BenDover
about a half mile east of the shinnecock canal on the north shore of the southern fork...

Looks like you'll have it a little easier than me being about 40mi from WTNH and 80mi from the NYC stations. Forum member dswallow has posted this lookup tool (http://www.2150.com/broadcast) that's quite useful in calculating the distances.

Originally posted by BenDover
about a half mile east of the shinnecock canal on the north shore of the southern fork...

I know of one person in west Hampton who was getting NYC, but it was very so so. You will have much better luck with Ct. signal bounce over water so it goes farther, RI could be good too.

Are you in shinnecock hills? I was just working on Blackwatch court last week, If you have some height you will be in better shape.

Originally posted by rcliff
I've got a CM Stealthtenna that I was using in my Nassau house's attic to pull in WTNH 50mi away but no longer need it since WABC went live. I think I'll take that out east to see if I can get WTNH from there. Ben, I'm in Amagansett. How far out are you? I'd be interested to hear about your results with the CM4228.


Not a chance for NYC unless you plan on a 500ft tower! WTNH is even a long shot, you will have to get the antenna very high. Look to RI, it is your only hope for OTA HD, problem is most of the RI DT stations are going to be well north in RI so that is not going to be easy ether. Best bet is Cablevision or BEV DBS for Network HD, sorry Amagansett is just way to far.

Originally posted by KenA
Hey Pat. I just dropped my package down to Broadcast Basic and lost INHD. Are you sill getting it? Should I give them a call?

Ken,

Did you get this resolved on your end? I'm still trying with the CSR's and nothing seems to be working. I have the Sony box, how about you? I just sent Wilt H an e-mail to see if they made programming changes that altered the minimum service level to get INHD.

Let me know,
Patrick

Originally posted by lomax
Not a chance for NYC unless you plan on a 500ft tower! WTNH is even a long shot, you will have to get the antenna very high. Look to RI, it is your only hope for OTA HD, problem is most of the RI DT stations are going to be well north in RI so that is not going to be easy ether. Best bet is Cablevision or BEV DBS for Network HD, sorry Amagansett is just way to far. Thanks lomax. I was able to get WTNH 50mi away in Roslyn (through the attic) with the stealthtenna but my house is approx 350ft above sea level so that must have helped quite a bit. The providence stations are about 75mi so maybe I have a chance over the water. My house out here is at sea level so no help there but there's also nothing out here to interfere with the the signal. I think I'll bring out the stealthtenna to see if I get any blips on the radar just for fun.

Originally posted by seldenpat
Ken,

Did you get this resolved on your end? I'm still trying with the CSR's and nothing seems to be working. I have the Sony box, how about you? I just sent Wilt H an e-mail to see if they made programming changes that altered the minimum service level to get INHD.

Let me know,
Patrick

My response from Wilt (I'm impressed he took time out on a Saturday to help me out!):

"...Your instincts were correct; I don't know why the reps couldn't figure out what to tell you--when INHD was launched it was put into the wrong tier. Both it and BravoHD require expanded basic as a minimum level of service.
Sorry it was so hard for you to get a straight answer.
Thanks,
Wilt"

It was fun while it lasted...:(

I decided to spend the extra $30 and go with Gold...

Originally posted by seldenpat
Both it and BravoHD require expanded basic as a minimum level of service.
Exactly what is "expanded basic "?

Originally posted by Bogney Baux
Exactly what is "expanded basic "?

I took it to mean Family Cable and above. That additional $36 that I would pay for INHD would be more than if I just went with Gold.

i signed up for voom and will likely drop down to broadcast basic, if not drop it entirely...we'll see...

NBC from Connecticut is now coming in strongly at 50% I live in Brentwood, LI
Last night was amazing seeing NBC programming in HD it has been a long time ever since the NYC NBC has stopped coming in.
Now everything is complete except for WPIX which I still cannot get due to them being low powered.

Originally posted by seldenpat
My response from Wilt (I'm impressed he took time out on a Saturday to help me out!):

"...Your instincts were correct; I don't know why the reps couldn't figure out what to tell you--when INHD was launched it was put into the wrong tier. Both it and BravoHD require expanded basic as a minimum level of service.
Sorry it was so hard for you to get a straight answer.
Thanks,
Wilt"

It was fun while it lasted...:(

I decided to spend the extra $30 and go with Gold...
Thanks Pat. There hasn't really been enough programming on INHD and BravoHD to justify the extra $$$. Without time shifting, I barely watch what I do have.

What happened to WLIW HD? It was my showcase channel. Now I have to only invite friends and family over during CBS primetime ;)

DumbLuck-

WLIW-DT has apparently decided to cease transmitting the PBS HD Channel on 21.1 (or 22.1 depending on your receiver). This is tragic for those of us who loved to watch and show off the quality programming and stunning PQ. Below is a copy of my post on the NYC metro OTA thread. Everyone, please contact WLIW and let them know they need to bring back the PBS HD Channel. It's almost criminal that the nation's largest TV market is without this channel OTA!! Please see below:

WLIW-DT's PBS HD Channel kaput
Apparently, WLIW-DT has ceased transmitting the PBS HD Channel (21.1). The only other area station broadcasting this channel is WNET-DT, which most of us cannot receive! This is a major tragedy and loss for area folks who came to love it's wonderful programming and stunning PQ. Makes you wonder, what were they thinking!

I received WLIW-DT's PBS HD Channel with no trouble in Lower Westchester using a rooftop antenna. So did many other folks who came to feel it had the best programming of all area OTA channels. This is not progress towards bringing quality DTV to the area. It is a tremendous step backward! We will seriously miss this channel.

Maybe if everyone affected would let WLIW know that this is a tremendous mistake, perhaps we might have a chance to reverse the decision. Please call WLIW at 516-367-2100 to let them know how you feel, or visit their website wliw.org to send an email or fill out a viewer comments message.

Thanks for listening.

Jezebel

I did send an email to the station questioning what has happened. I have not heard back.

My only guess for ceasing is $$$...

I can only imagine the HD filiming and broadcasting can be quite an expense for a public service channel. I did notice a new 21.3 channel which is only SD. But SD vs HD is no comparison.

Good news, WLIW wrote back:

"Dear Viewer:

This is a temporary situation while new programs and equipment are being worked on.

Thank you for your interest.

Sincerely,

WLIW21
Viewer Relations"

Originally posted by DumbLuck
Good news, WLIW wrote back:

"Dear Viewer:

This is a temporary situation while new programs and equipment are being worked on.

Thank you for your interest.

Sincerely,

WLIW21
Viewer Relations"

DumbLuck-

If it is true that WLIW-DT has stopped broadcasting PBS HD Channel only temporarily, then that is very good news. But I spoke with them late last week, and at that time it seemed like a permanent decision. That's why my original post sounded so dire. No mention of programming or equipment issues.

The part about "new programs" doesn't make any sense, since the PBS HD Channel is a national PBS feed. It doesn't originate at WLIW. It already exists with complete programming, "fully packaged 24/7 channel" according to the PBS press release. Even before it debuted in early March, WLIW-DT was showing the HD loop every day (although I never checked it in the middle of the night).

If the interruption is for new equipment installation, then I suppose that might be a good thing. But, again, that was never mentioned to me.

I'll see if they respond to my feedback message the same as they did to yours. I'll also phone them before week's end to see if I can get more info.

In the meantime, WLIW must bring it back. Or WNET-DT needs to transmit so that folks can actually receive the signal. In other words, the NYC metro area needs the PBS HD Channel!! I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

Jezebel

I'm out in East Northport and am probably going to order the CM4228 in the next couple of days. Based upon all of your experiences, do you think I should invest in the CM9521A antenna rotator? According to Antennaweb.org (http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/Welcome.aspx) , I'm about 37.5 miles from the NYC stations. I really want to pull those in instead of looking towards Conn. if at all possible. I'm also going to try it without the amp first and add it later on if needed.

Originally posted by bowbie89
I'm out in East Northport and am probably going to order the CM4228 in the next couple of days. Based upon all of your experiences, do you think I should invest in the CM9521A antenna rotator? According to Antennaweb.org (http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/Welcome.aspx) , I'm about 37.5 miles from the NYC stations. I really want to pull those in instead of looking towards Conn. if at all possible. I'm also going to try it without the amp first and add it later on if needed.

You should be fine...the NYC signals are coming from 3 main sources (ESB, Conde Naste in Times Square, and The GE Building in Rockefeller Center). A degree difference from your distance, so I don't think you would need a rotor. Eventually, all signals SHOULD be coming from the ESB, so even less of a reason to have one. Only if you were going for some CT stations would you need it.

Originally posted by seldenpat
You should be fine... I guess like the amp, I can always add the rotator later if needed. I think I will go with the CM 9067 y-type chimney mount. I want to try to get this up before I call Directv to schedule the install to make the installation as idiot proof as possible. I know there are some good installers out there but I've heard some horror stories as well.

I'm located in Westhampton using a cm4228 with preamp fed into a Sony HD300. I get WTNH and WVIT very well. I get a very weak signal from Wtic, barely registers, unwatchable. I also get the PBS stations in Norwich CT. as well as UPN in New Haven. I think Lomax was talking about me when he mentioned NYC reception in Westhampton, but if it was me he was mistaken. I've tried with a rotor but got nothing. I did have some better success with a DAT-75, but my wife hated the way it looked so we compromised on the 4228. I gave the Dat-75 to Lomax.

Anybody here use D* and took advantage of their deal to upgrade to HDTV and received their OTA antenna as well? I was just wondering what OTA antenna that was and how well it worked before I go ahead and order my CM 4228. Maybe it will serve it's purpose but I kinda doubt it. I figured I'd ask all the Long Islander's before I post the same question on the D* hardware thread.

sorry, i'm vooming :)

Originally posted by bowbie89
I guess like the amp, I can always add the rotator later if needed. I think I will go with the CM 9067 y-type chimney mount. I want to try to get this up before I call Directv to schedule the install to make the installation as idiot proof as possible. I know there are some good installers out there but I've heard some horror stories as well.


Hi Bowbie89 I'm also in East Northport and wonder how your installation/reception worked out. I'm planning on putting up the CM4228 this weekend. How are the signals coming in?? Are you (or anyone else on LI getting NBC)..Did you need the amp?? Did you go for the rotator?? Thanks in advance for the any info (from anyone!)

ted321,

I changed my mind about the OTA antenna and went with the Winegard Squareshooter (http://www.winegard.com/offair/squareshooter.htm). I purchased it from Solid Signal (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=SS-1000) just this past Monday with delivery expected on this Thursday. They recommended I get the CM 7777 preamp but I wanted to see what I pull in first without the preamp. They felt the 4228 was too directional to pull in both the NYC stations at 273 degrees and WLIW at 252 degrees. Another reason I went with the squareshooter was that it can be mounted on my existing dish instead of using a chimney mount.

I haven't called Directv as of yet but I am planning to do so within the next couple of days. I will post my findings in this thread as needed.

Originally posted by bowbie89
ted321,

I changed my mind about the OTA antenna and went with the Winegard Squareshooter (http://www.winegard.com/offair/squareshooter.htm). I purchased it from Solid Signal (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=SS-1000) just this past Monday with delivery expected on this Thursday. They recommended I get the CM 7777 preamp but I wanted to see what I pull in first without the preamp. They felt the 4228 was too directional to pull in both the NYC stations at 273 degrees and WLIW at 252 degrees. Another reason I went with the squareshooter was that it can be mounted on my existing dish instead of using a chimney mount.

I haven't called Directv as of yet but I am planning to do so within the next couple of days. I will post my findings in this thread as needed.

Why would you care about WLIW? It's not broadcasting HD anymore.

Originally posted by seldenpat
Why would you care about WLIW? It's not broadcasting HD anymore. Yeah, I know. I heard/read about that. I guess you could say I'm hoping.:( What was WLIW's latest statement?

Originally posted by bowbie89
Yeah, I know. I heard/read about that. I guess you could say I'm hoping.:( What was WLIW's latest statement?

I'm paraphrasing, but it went something like this...

That they won't be broadcasting HD anymore. If you want HD you can get it from their sister station, WNET - Newark.

It makes me mad again just thinking about it.

Originally posted by seldenpat
I'm paraphrasing, but it went something like this...

That they won't be broadcasting HD anymore. If you want HD you can get it from their sister station, WNET - Newark. Well if that's the case then if I can't pull the NYC stations in with the Squareshooter without the preamp then I might return it and go for the 4228 since directionality won't matter much anymore and spending the additional $60 for the CM 7777 preamp with the squareshooter might not be practical $$ wise.

Originally posted by bowbie89
Well if that's the case then if I can't pull the NYC stations in with the Squareshooter without the preamp then I might return it and go for the 4228 since directionality won't matter much anymore and spending the additional $60 for the CM 7777 preamp with the squareshooter might not be practical $$ wise.

I've never tried the squareshooter, but I pull in NYC from Selden, about 54 miles out, with an attic installed 4228 and the CM7777. Probably wouldn't need the preamp if I went on the roof, but antennas on roof only slighly more popular than Solar panels on the WAF.:D

I haven't read the entire thread, but I live in Nassau county and the only local station that I don't get in HD is NBC? Is anyone else getting this station?

Doriginal,

There are people who are pulling in WNBC. Where in Nassau are you and what is your setup? Right now NBC is the hardest to pull in from NYC but from Nassau you should be able to do it.

Originally posted by seldenpat
I've never tried the squareshooter, but I pull in NYC from Selden, about 54 miles out, with an attic installed 4228 and the CM7777. Probably wouldn't need the preamp if I went on the roof, but antennas on roof only slighly more popular than Solar panels on the WAF.:D

I've got the 4228 on the roof out in Setauket (a little NE of Selden) and without the preamp I got nothing from NYC. I may have been able to get CBS (strongest) if I tweaked the antenna a bit, but I could not get the other channels to come in.

Originally posted by DumbLuck
I've got the 4228 on the roof out in Setauket (a little NE of Selden) and without the preamp I got nothing from NYC. I may have been able to get CBS (strongest) if I tweaked the antenna a bit, but I could not get the other channels to come in.

Same here from Coram ... w/o preamp I get zero from NYC, even with the antenna on the roof.

Originally posted by charlieg
Same here from Coram ... w/o preamp I get zero from NYC, even with the antenna on the roof.

Thanks for the info!

Originally posted by Doriginal
I haven't read the entire thread, but I live in Nassau county and the only local station that I don't get in HD is NBC? Is anyone else getting this station?

The only station?? You mean you can get WB?

That is the only station I can't get from either NYC or CT...

I'm getting my new HDTV next week and just researching my options on acqiring signal. I took advantage of the $99 D* deal for the STB. They said they won't be offering an OTA antenna, so I have to come up w/ an alternative plan. I like the idea of the Square Shooter, since it will mount to an existing D* dish. Has anyone had luck w/ this antenna? I'm in Amityville. The Dish is on the front of the house, so I'm afraid to put the CM 4228 as it looks pretty big. Will D* be offering OTA HDTV locals anytime soon?

Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by bowbie89
I changed my mind about the OTA antenna and went with the Winegard Squareshooter (http://www.winegard.com/offair/squareshooter.htm). I purchased it from Solid Signal (http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=SS-1000) just this past Monday with delivery expected on this Thursday. They recommended I get the CM 7777 preamp but I wanted to see what I pull in first without the preamp. They felt the 4228 was too directional to pull in both the NYC stations at 273 degrees and WLIW at 252 degrees. Another reason I went with the squareshooter was that it can be mounted on my existing dish instead of using a chimney mount.

I haven't called Directv as of yet but I am planning to do so within the next couple of days. I will post my findings in this thread as needed. Well I put up my Squareshooter this past weekend. I am in East Northport about 35 miles from NYC signals. I am able pull in CBS, Fox, ABC & WLIW. I can't pull in NBC as my signal on my Hughes HTL-HD box varies between the A and the D under BAD.:( This is without the help of a preamp. My other stations seemed fairly strong but I didn't do any extended watching. I spent most of the time trying to tweak the dish to pull in NBC. I am not sure if I will order the preamp at this point or wait for the combiner project to be finished (hopefully before the Olympics). So I guess it's about what I expected for this antenna in that I would have a problem with NBC. I installed it on the side of my house where my old dish was located with the mast extending above the roof line. I could also try and put it a little bit higher on the roof if needed.

Originally posted by bowbie89
Well I put up my Squareshooter this past weekend. I am in East Northport about 35 miles from NYC signals. I am able pull in CBS, Fox, ABC & WLIW. I can't pull in NBC as my signal on my Hughes HTL-HD box varies between the A and the D under BAD.:( This is without the help of a preamp. My other stations seemed fairly strong but I didn't do any extended watching. I spent most of the time trying to tweak the dish to pull in NBC. I am not sure if I will order the preamp at this point or wait for the combiner project to be finished (hopefully before the Olympics). So I guess it's about what I expected for this antenna in that I would have a problem with NBC. I installed it on the side of my house where my old dish was located with the mast extending above the roof line. I could also try and put it a little bit higher on the roof if needed. Thanks For The info Rob. I'm also in East Northport and was able to pick up the same stations as you with the 4228 without an amp. Does anyone think we can pick up NBC with an amp?? Also what is the "combiner project"?

Originally posted by ted321
Thanks For The info Rob. I'm also in East Northport and was able to pick up the same stations as you with the 4228 without an amp. Does anyone think we can pick up NBC with an amp?? Also what is the "combiner project"?

I get NBC every now and then out in Coram with a 4228 and 7777 preamp ... take that for what it's worth - no guarantee that things will be much better for you but you are probably 15 - 20 miles closer to the source than I am.

The combiner project will allow several additional stations which are now broadcasting from alternate locations and at much lower power to use the same broadcast tower(s) on the Empire State Building that CBS and FOX are currently using. Hopefully things will improve considerably when this work finally gets completed.

Originally posted by charlieg
The combiner project will allow several additional stations which are now broadcasting from alternate locations and at much lower power to use the same broadcast tower(s) on the Empire State Building that CBS and FOX are currently using. Just to clarify, Fox is not part of the combiner project. The combined station's transmitters will be hooked up to the present WCBS antenna. Fox, channel 44, has it's own antenna at Empire.

Originally posted by Bogney Baux
Just to clarify, Fox is not part of the combiner project. The combined station's transmitters will be hooked up to the present WCBS antenna.

Thanks for the correction. FOX must be using their own equipment that's separate from what will be "combined". - Charlie

oddly enough, fox was coming in very strong this morning and cbs' signal was stronger than usual...did they crank up the power recently?

hmm...this morning abc from nyc was coming in strong...did someone flick the switch or are they just testing??

i pressed the input button for my tv a number of times this morning because abc was on and i normally only get abc through the cable input :)

Hi All, I wrote about my antenna installation a few weeks back and I've been having some problems. Any comments/suggestions greatly appreciated!! I put up the CM 4228 and added a good Radio Shack Amp. Initially I was happy to be able to pick up NBC and ABC (in addition to CBS and Fox). I was however getting frequent pixalation on NBC and ABC. (I'm in E Northport). I realized, moron that I am that I installed the thing right in front of a tree! (miscalculated signal direction) Lately I have'nt been able to pick up NBC/ABC (altho last week NBC was coming in perfect for a few hours) (I had in the meantime added 5 ft of mast, but it's worst now (plan to lower it again this weekend). I figure I have two options 1- move the antenna to the other side of the house (a hassle!!) or 2- wait till this combiner project this completed. Any thoughts??!! Anyone know what the status is of the combiner project is or where I could find more information about it. Thanks in advance for any comments/info.. By the way CBS/Fox come in good consistantly.

i kind of have the same problem; when the foliage on the trees came into full bloom my reception went to hell on one of my antennas (cm3671); oddly enough, the cm4228's reception seems to have improved at the same time that the cm3671 went to hell. i will either find out in the fall when the foliage disappears or sooner if i cut down the tree that is the culprit (i had been planning on removing that tree anyhow so please don't think i am willing to sacrifice a poor little tree simply to get better reception :) ... although, i can't honestly say that the thought wouldn't cross my mind otherwise)

try lowering the mast, as you suggest; if that doesn't help, only other alternative is to relocate it .... or .... cut down the tree :)

I need a little help.

I'm in Selden. I have a Radio Shack antenna ( something like VU-160 or VU-180 )
a CM 7777 amp all mounted on a two story house with a 7' mast w/ rotor.

I used to get CBS and ABC from the ESB and WTNH ( ABC ) from CT. I can still get FOX very strong from the ESB and I understand that ABC is doing some work on their setup. What happened to CBS ? Is anyone else this far out east still getting it?

As far as WTNH is concerned I used to get that signal very strong for HD and now nothing. I can still get the analog signal for WTNH.

With Football season around the corner I need to figure out if my setup went bad or the signals just aren't receivable right now.

Any insight would be helpful.

I am in Great Neck and in the last couple of weeks I can't get ABC HD any more.

Originally posted by Issac
I am in Great Neck and in the last couple of weeks I can't get ABC HD any more.

ABC is upgrading their transmission. They've been transmitting at low power these last couple of weeks. From what I understand the work was supposed to be finished this week and they're supposed to go back online with a stronger signal soon. So far I haven't been able to lock onto the signal ( I was getting it at 70-73% prior to the upgrade).

That is good news, I thought I had to bring my antenna guy back over. I was getting 70-73% as well before it went down.

Honestly, I really don't care how long it takes ABC to get back up to full strength as long as they can get it done by the time the regaulr season starts in the NFL. If not, then I might have to bite the bullet, buy a rotator, and pick up the signal from ABC in CT (My receiver can pick up the signal at 40-49%, but can't lock onto it).......

Hello All,

Great info on this forum!

I have DirecTV and want to replace my dish with an elliptical HD dish that I have and also need to have a new OTA antenna installed.

Can anyone here recommend a good (quality and $) installer in the Nassau area?

Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks!

Anyone? Bueller......Bueller...... :-D

Try asking DTV directly as they use local installers to set up their system.

HUNTINGTON REPRESENTING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just a silly question, but can anyone receive WNET on LI? If so, please list equipment and location.

Originally posted by dturturro
can anyone receive WNET on LI? I would be surprised if anyone can receive WNET. It is very low power and beamed towards New Jersey.

is anyone else in suffolk county, long island suddenly having problems receiving broadcasts from nyc? i suddenly can't get cbs, fox, upn or abc.

i'm starting to get suspicious since i also am having trouble receiving nbc from CT...

if no one else is experiencing a problem, i have to presume something is amiss with my antennas or the run of coax or the preamp, etc.

Originally posted by BenDover
is anyone else in suffolk county, long island suddenly having problems receiving broadcasts from nyc? i suddenly can't get cbs, fox, upn or abc.

i'm starting to get suspicious since i also am having trouble receiving nbc from CT...

if no one else is experiencing a problem, i have to presume something is amiss with my antennas or the run of coax or the preamp, etc.

Here in Nassau I'm getting all but WB, sorry:(

hrm, i think it is my antenna; one seems to be picking up signals fine the other suddenly isn't picking up anything...something must have happened outside b/c i checked all my internal connections and the preamp is plugged in :)

BenDover, I'm in Suffolk and am receiving fine reception via antenna on CBS, FOX,ABC..must be your antenna and/or connections..Good Luck!

Brentwood representing....

So far so good....

Pointed to CT for UPN, PBS, and ABC....
Ever since D* added CBS and NBC there is no need for me to turn it back to the city...
On occasion I switch to the city for FOX....

Reviewing this post I see someone from Brentwood receiving TV55-DT. Is anyone west of Brentwood receiving this channel? I'm in Levittown and I've had no luck.

FYI, I live in Huntington and was a D*tv user. I was all set to get an HD-Tivo and set up an antenna so that I could get most of the locals in HD...

However, on a whim, I called cablevision right before buying the tivo. They now have the scientific atlanta hd-dvr available.... for about 5 bucks more per month than a normal box! BTW, the hd-tivo for direct tv, as most of you may be aware, is a whopping $999.

Well I couldn't be happier. To all of you on Long Island, you may want to consider this deal. I now get nbc,cbs,abc,pbs,hbo,starz,fox,espn,and inhd AND can record them in hd! ..... and no antenna :)

Craig

Originally posted by cmr15
FYI, I live in Huntington and was a D*tv user. I was all set to get an HD-Tivo and set up an antenna so that I could get most of the locals in HD...

However, on a whim, I called cablevision right before buying the tivo. They now have the scientific atlanta hd-dvr available.... for about 5 bucks more per month than a normal box! BTW, the hd-tivo for direct tv, as most of you may be aware, is a whopping $999.

Well I couldn't be happier. To all of you on Long Island, you may want to consider this deal. I now get nbc,cbs,abc,pbs,hbo,starz,fox,espn,and inhd AND can record them in hd! ..... and no antenna :)

Craig

The HD TiVo is the best $599 (saved $100 being an early adopter plus $300 in D* credits) I ever spent! And my D* bill doesn't go up EVERY month the way my cable bill did:mad:

But, getting back to OTA, any new insider info on the combiner?

I live in Ct and was wondering if Channel 55 has a digital channel and if so are they at full power or low power. I get the analog channel fairl good and would like to get the digital channel.

Yes Analog Ch. 55 is available in Digital on Ch. 57, they have
never broadcasted in HD, but maybe in the future, since they
do seem to show alot of Movies ..

Is this List accurate ? ( On = On the Air )

<<<<<<<<<<< NY / LI / NJ >>>>>>>>>>>>
2 NY WCBS NYC 56 On
4 NY WNBC NYC 28 On
5 NY WNYW NYC 44 On
7 NY WABC NYC 45 On
9 NY WWOR NYC 38 On ch.44
11 NY WPIX NYC 33 On ch.12 LowPower?
13 NY WNET NYC 61 On LowPower
21 NY WLIW Plainview,LI 22 On
23 NJ WNJS Camden 22
25 NY WNYE Brooklyn 24 On LowPower?
31 NY WPXN NYC 30 On
41 NJ WXTV Paterson,NYC 40 On
47 NJ WNJU Linden,NYC 36 ??
50 NJ WNJN Montclair 51 On
52 NJ WNJT Trenton 43 On
54 NY WTBY Poughkeepsie 27 On
55 NY WLNY Ridge,LI 57 On
58 NJ WNJB New Brunswick 8 On
62 NY WRNN Kingston 48 On
63 NJ WMBC Newton 18 On?
66 NJ WFME West Milford 29 On
67 NY WFTY Ridge,LI 23 On
68 NJ WFUT Newark,NYC 53

<<<<<<<<<<<<<< CONNECTICUT >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
3 CT WFSB Hartford 33 On
8 CT WTNH New Haven 10 On
18 CT WUVN Hartford 46
20 CT WTXX Waterbury 12 On
24 CT WEDH New Haven 32
26 CT WHPX New London 34 On
30 CT WVIT New Britain 35 On
43 CT WSAH Bridgeport 42
49 CT WEDW Bridgeport 52 On
53 CT WEDN Norwich 45 On
59 CT WCTX Hartford 39 On
61 CT WTIC Hartford 31 On
65 CT WEDY New Haven 6 ??

Originally posted by Keith
( On = On the Air )

<<<<<<<<<<< NY / LI / NJ >>>>>>>>>>>>

11 NY WPIX NYC 33 ch. 12 low power



Finally WPIX (WB) is on the Air on ch. 33

Yes they have been talking about it on the NYC OTA thread. I'm getting WPIX-DT at 83% here in Huntington. If this is low power...high power should be gooooooood. Now all I need to complete the list is WNBC-DT and WNET-DT. I dropped my locals package from D* and it looks like it is going to work out :-)

WWOR-DT is now available on channel 38! (Although some receivers are having problems tuning it in.)

Its coming in here in Kings Park !!

I get 2 channels on Ch.38:

WWOR-DT Sec
WNYW-DT New

but WWOR seems to be not the same format as on ch.44

damn, i really need to get on my roof and re-erect my antenna...still waiting for all the snow to melt...great news about wpix...i had been waiting on them.

it's been a while, but i could swear i was getting nbc; not sure if it was from nyc or ct...

Originally posted by BenDover
damn, i really need to get on my roof and re-erect my antenna...still waiting for all the snow to melt...great news about wpix...i had been waiting on them.

it's been a while, but i could swear i was getting nbc; not sure if it was from nyc or ct...

NBC-DT is broadcasting at 50% power from the ESB, so it's probably coming from their.

For those interested, WPIX-DT now has guide data available on channel 33 for the HR10-250. You'll need to clear your scanned off-air channels then check 11-1 in Channels You Receive.

I know this might be the wrong forum for this, but can anyone answer questions on Voom's local OTA antennas for Long Island? I might be moving to Western Suffolk, and wanted to know if there's a certain antenna model I should request to receive WCBS-TV/DT, WNBC-TV/DT, WNYW-TV/DT, WABC-TV/DT, WWOR-TV/DT, WPIX-TV/DT (very important to me as I'm a Mets fan), WNET-TV/DT, WLIW-TV/DT, as well as some of the Connecticut locals. Also, does the FCC FireWire mandate apply to satellite? Initially, I plan on hooking up Voom to a Sony 27" Wega SD 4:3. Will the Voom receiver automatically letterbox, or stretch the HD channels (I was told the box will downres to 480i over component and composite.)? How are the installers in terms of working with you about stringing the coax and dish mounting? Do they try to "nickle and dime" you, or are they fairly accommodating (I want them to run a cable into the basement, and drill a small hole through the floor and string to the main floor rooms)?

VOOM will provide you with whatever antenna you need to pick up the most locals in your area if you "ask" for a larger antenna. I had two large antennas already installed when I got VOOM so they just left me with their default channel master (forget the model). From Smithtown I was alble to get most channels from NYC and some from CT. When I was up and running WPIX wasn't yet broadcasting at high enough power levels although I understand that they have begun. My antennas came down before winter to do some renovations and haven't had the time/opportunity to get them back up so I can't tell you about WPIX (sorry to hear you're a Met fan :) )

Not sure about the firewire mandate you speak of but VOOM doesn't have an active firewire port anyhow.

My VOOM installer was great and did whatever I asked him, including something similar to what you are looking for; cable from roof run into my basement beneath my den and up through the floor although I had already drilled up from the basement into my den; he did drill a new hole from the exterior into the basement. I didn't have to reach into my pocket for anything but the installation price was included; are they not still including the installation price?

The component outs are for HD but you certainly can instruct it to output 480i (SD) by pressing the little red button under the little door on the front of the unit located on the right lower corner (I believe it cycles in the following order being confirmed by the light bar on the front, 1-1080i, 2-720p, 3-480p, 4-480i and 5-original source (all light bars flash); the composite by default outputs SD.

The VOOM box has settings for what to do with 4:3 material on a widescreen setup; i.e., it will stretch or letterbox (i think those are the only two options; of course, your tv can probably manipulate the images as well).

Originally posted by DevOne
wanted to know if there's a certain antenna model I should request to receive WCBS-TV/DT, WNBC-TV/DT, WNYW-TV/DT, WABC-TV/DT, WWOR-TV/DT, WPIX-TV/DT (very important to me as I'm a Mets fan), WNET-TV/DT, WLIW-TV/DT, as well as some of the Connecticut locals.

Don't plan on getting WNET-DT yet. They are broadcasting low power from NJ, pointing away from LI. I wouldn't plan on getting any Connecticut locals either as that will require an antenna rotator, which you won't get Voom to pay for since you can get the NY locals.

To be honest with you, since the combiner has been put in place on the ESB, I've been very disappointed with the reception from NBC and ABC (who were both on temporary antennas prior to moving to the combiner). Luckily for me, both of these stations are available in HD on D*, so I changed all of my "season passes" on my Tivo to the D* version of the stations.

On the other hand, the combiner has allowed for the reception of WWOR and WPIX which which I couldn't receive at all prior to the combiner.

Lastly, you will be disappointed with WLIW-DT because they aren't broadcasting in HD anymore, just digitally. If your location doesn't allow you to pick this station up without rotating the antenna, I wouldn't let it be the reason that I bought a rotator.

Hi,
I live in Babylon Village (Western Suffolk, approx 36 miles from ESB) in an apartment and can't put an antenna on the roof. Does anyone know if it would be possible to receive WPIX DT with an indoor antenna? I am in the 3rd of 3 floors, would that help with reception?

Looking at antennaweb.org, it says I would need an amplified UHF antenna. Anyone in a similar situation have success receiving CH 11 with an indoor antenna?

Thanks!

Originally posted by Bill Broderick
Don't plan on getting WNET-DT yet. They are broadcasting low power from NJ, pointing away from LI. I wouldn't plan on getting any Connecticut locals either as that will require an antenna rotator, which you won't get Voom to pay for since you can get the NY locals.

To be honest with you, since the combiner has been put in place on the ESB, I've been very disappointed with the reception from NBC and ABC (who were both on temporary antennas prior to moving to the combiner). Luckily for me, both of these stations are available in HD on D*, so I changed all of my "season passes" on my Tivo to the D* version of the stations.


How is WNET-TV's reception? Could ABC and NBC's reception be compromised more by them multicasting (eyewitness news loop and weather plus respectivley), than their move to the ESB?

you definitely want a rotator if you plan on picking up all the previously mentioned channels.

multicasting wouldn't affect signal reception.

Originally posted by zoidberg
Hi,
I live in Babylon Village (Western Suffolk, approx 36 miles from ESB) in an apartment and can't put an antenna on the roof. Does anyone know if it would be possible to receive WPIX DT with an indoor antenna? I am in the 3rd of 3 floors, would that help with reception?

Looking at antennaweb.org, it says I would need an amplified UHF antenna. Anyone in a similar situation have success receiving CH 11 with an indoor antenna?

Thanks!

You MAY be able to use a Zenith Silver Sensor. If you point it out a west facing window you might be able to pick up the signals from ESB.

If you're on the top floor and have attic access (or even a large crawl space) on the west side of the building you could try using an outdoor antenna with a preamp in the attic.

Thanks I'll give it a shot. Need my WPIX Mets games in HD!

Originally posted by DevOne
Also, does the FCC FireWire mandate apply to satellite?

How are the installers in terms of working with you about stringing the coax and dish mounting? Do they try to "nickle and dime" you, or are they fairly accommodating (I want them to run a cable into the basement, and drill a small hole through the floor and string to the main floor rooms)?
The Firewire mandate is for cable only.

Good luck with the installer. These guys are paid a flat fee for the satellite job (usually ~$75 but voom may differ). You may be able to pay him to do some custom work but in my experience you'll be lucky if you can get someone to finish the most basic install after multiple visits.

Has anyone successfully pulled OTA locals from the ESB combiner, and been able to pick up WLNY-DT? I know they're broadcasting on a low-power transmission tower in Ridge. If anyone has some tips/recommendations on how to aquire the ESB OTAs and WLNY-DT (I'm going with Voom and their OTA antenna), I'd appreciate it. This will be for a home on the Nassau/Suffolk boarder.

Originally posted by zoidberg
Thanks I'll give it a shot. Need my WPIX Mets games in HD!


Got my Silver Sensor in the mail today. With some positioning, I'm able to get WPIX DT on my HDTV!!

Thanks for suggesting the Silver Sensor, it really is an amazing little antenna!

I'm also able to pick up CBS, FOX, ABC, WOR (WOR and FOX twice..) CH 21 and a bunch of Spanish channels.

The only one I haven't seen is NBC, but I get that with iO anyway. (along with everything else but WOR).

Thanks again!!

Actually, I'm getting NBC on the Silver sensor too.

In total, CBS, NBC, FOX, WOR, PIX, ABC (on CH 45, doesn't remap to 7) and CH21 along with a load of Spanish Channels

Pondering adding the Samsung SIR-T451 but would like to know reception experiences especially for South Shore users. Using full sized roof antenna relocated to attic.

Threads merged.

GARY CORNELL,HI, I live in Long Beach, I get all of these OTA in HD, 2 4 5 7 9 11. You will not get 13 in HD. No one in Nassau and Suffolk get 13 in HD until they are on the combiner on the Empire State building, and those channels come in clearer OTA than Directv . I have an outside mounted Weingard antenna with a rotator and the best part, don't have to pay Directv for it.

Thanks, just looking to add WWOR and WPIX for baseball. Have Cablevision but above not yet carried in HD. If i knew WWOR would show Yanks in HD, i'd pick up the Samsung today. I emailed them and the response was vague so i have to decide if it's worth it just for Met games.

I am in Patchogue. Getting good reception with Winegard 9065/AP4800 combo.

Originally posted by DVW
I am in Patchogue. Getting good reception with Winegard 9065/AP4800 combo.

what channels are you picking up and from where? you are even further out east than me...(smithtown)

2.1,4.1,5.1,7.1,9.1,11.1,21.1,31.1,41.1,68.1 from nyc.

Great thread. I just ordered an antenna and am trying to set my expectations accurately. I have a 1 floor ranch with attic. It is a uni-directional antenna for extra long ranges. I am in East Northport at about 36 miles from ESB. The run from the antenna to the TV is short (20 feet). I want to try putting the antenna in the attic first as it is very long. Any perspective is appreciated.

I have read that height is important and I agree, when all other variables are equal. But, I have also seen some pics and some actual antennas (and dishes) put almost on the ground.

My neighbor has an antenna that is probably 12 feet above where mine would end up and he gets amazing reception of non-HD channels. What kind of indication is that for my experience?

Thanks, Joe

Originally posted by CountryJoe
Great thread. I just ordered an antenna and am trying to set my expectations accurately. I have a 1 floor ranch with attic. It is a uni-directional antenna for extra long ranges. I am in East Northport at about 36 miles from ESB. The run from the antenna to the TV is short (20 feet). I want to try putting the antenna in the attic first as it is very long. Any perspective is appreciated.

I have read that height is important and I agree, when all other variables are equal. But, I have also seen some pics and some actual antennas (and dishes) put almost on the ground.

My neighbor has an antenna that is probably 12 feet above where mine would end up and he gets amazing reception of non-HD channels. What kind of indication is that for my experience?

Thanks, Joe

I would have to say that we could speculate but since there are so many contributing factors, in addition to the information that you've already provided, that the only way to know is to get it in the attic and give it a try.

If you have easy access to your attic it shouldn't be a problem, but if you have tight access then you might spend a lot of time and energy getting the pieces up into the attic, assembling the full antenna and then possibly discovering that you don't get all the channels you want.

Do you have room to rotate the antenna in your attic or were you envisioning just pointing it in one direction and leaving it alone? There are some stations that you can easily get from surrounding areas but you have to rotate the antenna (or mount two, as I did :) )

Which antenna did you get?

Thanks. I ordered a 91XG Uni-Directional Antenna from AntennasDirect. Nice people and 90 day unconditional return policy. $79 plus $14 shipping.

My Attic is a piece of cake to get into and has a lot of space. The only things I can think that would cause a problem, is the height (only one floor ranch) and the A/C trunk is in the attic about 20 feet away and to one side a bit. The place where the antenna is going is directly above the TV, so it is a very short, direct run down. I'm hoping this helps with signal loss. If I have to move it outside, I just snake the coax out a vent and I am right where the post goes. It is just that I do not want to look at the antenna, if I don't have to. Easy enough to give it a try.

Like I said, my neighbor has never had cable or satellite (I find it amazing). He has a basic aerial (sp?) antenna on his house and gets what I would describe as perfect reception. I am hoping that although I am about 12 feet lower than him, the strength of the antenna will make up for it.

Would you recommend a rotator, even though all the channels I want come from a single source (ESB)?

This is very exciting to see if this can be done and get HD from a free source and not shovel more money to DISH.

Thanks for the reply.

Joe

Try it out first; if you have a problem or then decide you want to explore getting some channels from say, CT, you could always add the rotator but the installation may be different unless you are planning on hanging it from a rafter on a pole anyhow, then maybe the rotator wouldn't be that difficult to install. I would imagine, however, if you go with a rotator you will have to mount it such that it can freely rotate within your attic.

Be careful of any electrical lines in your attic!!!!

Does anyone know where I can find a site that can help with the positioning of the antenna towards the source? I know basically where ESB is relative to me, but would like a compass heading (if possible) to help out. Is there a web site that anyone knows about where maybe I could input my address and see the direction to ESB transmitter?

Thanks, Joe

Originally posted by CountryJoe
Does anyone know where I can find a site that can help with the positioning of the antenna towards the source? I know basically where ESB is relative to me, but would like a compass heading (if possible) to help out. Is there a web site that anyone knows about where maybe I could input my address and see the direction to ESB transmitter?

Thanks, Joe

Try antennaweb.org or do a name search for dswallow and use the sites listed in his signature for a more detailed analysis of transmitter locations.

Thanks. One more question, for now.

Is the type of coax I use important? I see coax in Home Depot for $20 per 100ft. Is this quality or is something better? RadioShack also has it at a reasonable price. Looks like the same thing. Both are cheaper than BestBuy or CC. I don't mind spending the bucks for better quality, if it is recommended.

OK. Now I am officially confused. Could be too much reading on this forum.

I thought I read, somewhere here, that the local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, etc.) can be received via UHF from alternate channels.

Would someone please confirm this for me?

Originally posted by CountryJoe
Thanks. One more question, for now.

Is the type of coax I use important? I see coax in Home Depot for $20 per 100ft. Is this quality or is something better? RadioShack also has it at a reasonable price. Looks like the same thing. Both are cheaper than BestBuy or CC. I don't mind spending the bucks for better quality, if it is recommended.

Standard RG6 cable should be fine. Quad shield RG6 insulates the cable a little better from radio frequency interference but is more expensive. RG59 cable should not be used.

Originally posted by CountryJoe
OK. Now I am officially confused. Could be too much reading on this forum.

I thought I read, somewhere here, that the local channels (ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, etc.) can be received via UHF from alternate channels.

Would someone please confirm this for me?

Stations cannot broadcast analog AND digital on the same channel. Therefore CBS which broadcasts their analog signal (plain old standard definition video signal that's been around since the dawn of TV) on VHF channel 2 broadcasts their digital signal (the cool new signal which makes high definition possible) on UHF channel 56.

Same goes for the other channels:
Network Old/Analog New/Digital
NBC 4 28
Fox 5 44
ABC 7 45
UPN 9 38
WB 11 12 & 33

As you can see with WB the digital signal can be broadcast via VHF it's just more common on UHF. Something about the signal is more conducive to UHF. And there are more open channels.

Supposedly when the FCC shuts down analog the stations will be allowed to choose whether they want to stay on the new UHF station or use the old frequency to carry the digital broadcast.

Thanks. The antenna was delivered yesterday afternoon and installed about an hour later. Amazing! I used a compass to get the direction right and hooked everything up. I decided, after reading alot here, that I would just go for a ten foot pole and mount the antenna on the roof. I didn't want to be playing with this thing over and over in the attic. When I looked close, the attic had the air conditioning trunk (sheet metal) directly in line with the antenna direction.

I went to the TV and ran the process that cycles through the channels and couldn't believe it all worked, the first time. I got all local network as well as UPN and WPIX. I also got WLNY which I ddn't expect. I am picking up a lot of channels from New Jersey. Farther than I would have expected.

I locked everything down and watched the Mets for awhile on WPIX. It was great. We just kept staring at the details.

All I have left is to ground this thing. I am assuning it is a wise idea. I do not want to added a block in-line to connect the ground wire. I am thinking of connecting the ground wire to the antenna mast and then to the same point that the ground for the satellite is attached.

Any thoughts?

Thanks for all your input.

Joe

The digital sub channels that I get are as follows:
CBS 2.1 or 56.1
Fox 44.3
UPN 44.4
ABC 45.1
PBS LI 21.2 or 21.3
WLIW 55.1
If there are any ideas on where I should point the antenna for NBC or WB they would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

NBC & WB are located at the same site as CBS, Fox, UPN & ABC. You may have to add a preamp.

What is your location? I just put an antenna up and got all of the stations from ESB as well as a bunch from NJ. I am in East Northport.

I noticed a lot of folks posting signal strengths. How is this being measured? I have the antenna going straight into the TV, which is HDTV ready.

Thanks, Joe

Signal Strength or SS screen is usually in the diagnostics menu on your receiver or TV. Anyway I'm using the silver sensor and I also pick up ch. 8.1 as well as some spanish stations. I guess u mean using one of those inline amps they sell at CC. I've heard NBC broadcasts are not at the same strength as others. But that doesn't explain WB. Regardless let me say that watching 24 in HD was totally stunning with crystal clear picture and sound u almost felt that Jack was breaking ur fingers.

y am I not getting 4 and 11 digital subchannels if they r all on the same site and from where I point my antenna, I get 2,5,7,9 all in digital subchannels?

Originally posted by csimons66
Has anyone had a hard time picking up WLIW's signal on Long Island. I'm in northern Nassau County and have had trouble getting the signal over the past few days. I'm using a Motorola VOOM STB and not picking it up. Haven't tried hooking up the SAmsung OTA STB yet to see if it's a signal problem or a STB problem. Anyone?

I am in East Northport. No problems with WLIW as of last night.

Would a Pre-amp work? TERK is a home-bred company in my town and I see they make a pre-amp. Anyone recommend that product? Is there another product that would work so I can get the NBC and WB digital channels?

What kind of antenna are you using? What is the height and obstruction situation? I am in East Northport on the Commack border. I have a single story building with an xg91 pointed at the ESB and get all of the signals fine.

I use the silver sensor. I've tried others but that one is flat out the best. It works fine (with one to two dropouts an hour) depending on various factors. Is that what is holding me back? Like I said before it grabs 2,5,7,9 all in the 50-80% range when it comes in.

I am not familiar with indoor antennas, but I suspect that since I am approximately 37 miles from ESB, you are about the same distance. I think this is a very long way for an indoor antenna. Also, any antenna has to deal with obstructions, which are increased inside a house. Anything metal is going to kill the signal completely. House siding, insulation with a foil lining, and other building materials are also going to have an effect. You may want to check with others who own this or similar indoor antennas, but I think you are asking a lot of it.

Is there any reason why you would not put up an external antenna? I have what is probably the strongest uni-directional antenna on the roof and get all channels and sub-channels. I never get breakup or dropped signals. You define one or two dropouts an hour as fine. That would be very aggravating to me.

Good luck in your search for an answer.

Joe

Then I guess I'll try the pre-amp and report back with my results.

Terk products in general have not gotten good reviews on AVSForum. The most recommended preamp is the channelmaster 7777 or 7775. You can either order it online or you can pick it up at LNL Distributors, 235 Robbins Lane - Syosset, NY 11791
516-681-7270.

I picked up my preamp and Channelmaster 4248 antenna there.

Uro is correct, Terk doesn't garner much support in these forums. I have two of the 7777 preamps and they work fine.

I'll check that amp out, anyway I picked up a radio shack amp part #: 15-1170. so far it doesn't help receiving NBC or WB but it does in fact hold the picture to less than a dropout an hour. I'll probably return it and try the amp you guys are suggesting assuming it does not cost too much. Anything is worth a try to get Conan o'Brien in HDTV. lol

Is there some reason you don't want to put an external antenna on your house? You would definitely get better reception.

I've tried with an outdoor RS antenna and it does not seem to do anything better for my locale in fact I don't get any locals other than 21 or 55 DTV. Let me try a few things with the Silver Sensor as it seems to work better at getting locals than any other antenna I've tried at least indoors.

That's cause Rat Shack is awful! A legit outdoor antenna, aimed properly is your best bet.

If you are interested, in the future, in an outdoor antenna, I would suggest AntennasDirect. There products, prices and service are excellent. I bought the xg91 and the reception is excellent.

I am in Patchogue. Winegard ant & pre-amp are working well for me.

I'm taking all of your advices and will look at an outdoor antenna but since I plan moving closer to NYC in the late summer. What would you recommend for an indoor/outdoor antenna?

If you move within 15-20 miles you may get away with a Silver Sensor.

FYI, I have had the Terk-55 for 2 years and it works just fine from eastern Nassau. It's on the chimney of a typical split level house with about 100 ft of cable and the included preamp. :)

Originally posted by dturturro
If you move within 15-20 miles you may get away with a Silver Sensor.
On a good day I do get away with the Silver Sensor its just not really consistent enough. Anyway I have to ask, what is the best antenna under $50.00? The Silver Sensor was only 43.39 with the tax so that is close to the fringe of where I want to spend, Would ebay be a good place to look?

Home Depot has an RCA roof antenna for about that much. You may need a preamp depending on distance. That's where I'd put my money. The CM7777's the way to go.

Check out AntennasDirect. They have several in your price range, even if you include shipping.

Well guys this afternoon I was about to give the Silver Sensor a tryout in my the attic, when out of the blue FOX, UPN, CBS, and ABC all came in with out blips or dropouts, or any disruptions at all, So later I tested my good luck and attempted to watch 24 and guess what? No problems. It came in better than ever, again without any dropouts or blips. So for the time being I'm fine with the stations I get coming in. Maybe its the finishing of the blooming of the trees or the bad weather being gone, but who knows? On this forum some have claimed that NBC is not at full power which hopefully will be soon as the only events worth watching for me anyway on the Peacock in HD would be the remaining Triple Crown races and the US Open. I believe that is why I do not get NBC in HD on my set with my antenna. Just to refresh my memory and I know it was said before, but what digital subchannel is NBC in HD on again?

Ok I've found out 28 is NBC digital sub channel. That really wasn't to hard to find thanks to Rabbitears. Tried the attic with a TERK indoor nada on everything and the SS, coming up in the attic: 23.1 and 56.1 with 56.1 being CBS. Weird as I thought height would yield better results not worse. I even tried the trick with a mini TV reception and they didn't do any better, even though I got almost all NY,NJ,CT analog stations in the area with that RCA mini TV. I also found up there with a good flashlight (no other light in attic except natural day light thru the vents) a pole that can not be more than 2" wide that could be used to impart a nice mounting antenna without a mast. I have a RS 15-1718 (A) antenna that has been sitting in the garage for some time now. Could that work? It says on the side Radio Shack Archer Long Range Super Color Special, and I want to know if any one in this forum thinks its a good idea to try this antenna?

Since you've already got it, go for it. If it doesn't work try LNL Distributing Corp in Syosset.

The RS website says its rated of 120 miles. If that is the case a citizen on Plum Island could pick up NYC stations from the ESB. Is RS pulling my chain?

Yes and no. VHF signals can refract and travel over 100 miles to an antenna. UHF cannot (except under certain atmospherics conditions). UHF signals generally peter out at about 60 miles, depending on terrain. From Commack you shouldn't have any problem pulling in signals from the ESB with a medium sized Yagi with a preamp.

Dear Mr. Turturro,

Thank you for your letter. I believe that we hope to have HD up and running throughout the area by the end of 2005.

Sincerely,

Terry Hickerson
Thirteen Member and Viewer Relations
(212) 560-2888

Originally posted by dturturro
Dear Mr. Turturro,

Thank you for your letter. I believe that we hope to have HD up and running throughout the area by the end of 2005.

Sincerely,

Terry Hickerson
Thirteen Member and Viewer Relations
(212) 560-2888

Is this the PBS channel (channel 13)? That would be great news as they had some good content that I swear looked better OTA as opposed to through Cablevision.

If so, I wonder why they stopped broadcasting in HD last year.

Yep, that's it. Unfortunately they've missed a few of these deadlines in the past.

The antenna I was going to install on Saturday could not fit through to the attic door, so I can't use it. I only got 1/3 of it up there to begin with and that does not work at all. I went to BB to pick up a RCA ANT3022 antenna but it got brought as I was walking through the door and they say they are not getting anymore, so I picked up the TERK HDTVi which sucks and is going back ASAP. Honestly I thought that I could prove that it does work, and reading the NY,NY OTA thread it does seem to if your west of the Suffolk/Nassau border and 360º in this area. You know parts of NJ, CT upstate NY in toward the ESB. Outside that imaginary line you can expect to suffer dropouts to no reception at all. I'm a good five to ten miles from the border so I get it that doesn't work. When positioned right I get with no serious blips or dropouts these stations: 2.1, 5.1, 7.1 and 7.2, 9(the 5.2 simlucast), 21.2 and 21.3, 23.1, 55.1 using the Silver Sensor. I would like to get 4.1 and 11.1 if thats possible. I want the best indoor antenna I can get and from what I gather I have it in the SS, but what if that isn't good enough. I want to get NBC and WB and should get them, heck I got the analog signals before 9/11 and after when they were all in NJ albeit with some noise. Why I can't I pull in NBC and WB?