Can somenone recommend an antenna for picking up HD locals OTA. I live in Valdosta, and am leaning towards the Zenith ZHDTV1 HDTV-UHF Digital Indoor Antenna, but Im not sure it will be strong enough. Any help is greatly appreciated.

Can somenone recommend an antenna for picking up HD locals OTA. I live in Valdosta, and am leaning towards the Zenith ZHDTV1 HDTV-UHF Digital Indoor Antenna, but Im not sure it will be strong enough. Any help is greatly appreciated.


You will probably need an outdoor VHF/UHF amplified antenna or at least some sort or outdoor antenna. I have a Winegard GS2000 outdoor amplified antenna but I only live 20 to 25 miles away form the stations. You will most likely need something larger. Look on antennaweb.org for a suggestion of what size you may need.

Are there any good indoor HD antenna's or does one have to purchase a outside for local HD channels. I live in Hamden, Connecticut

You will probably need an outdoor VHF/UHF amplified antenna or at least some sort or outdoor antenna. I have a Winegard GS2000 outdoor amplified antenna but I only live 20 to 25 miles away form the stations.
Yeah, I went ahead and bought an outdoor antenna, which Im locating in the attic above the tv. Can you give any suggestions on how to run the antenna cable down through the wall. Im trying to keep it as clean as possible. Thanks

Yeah, I went ahead and bought an outdoor antenna, which Im locating in the attic above the tv. Can you give any suggestions on how to run the antenna cable down through the wall. Im trying to keep it as clean as possible. Thanks


My Dish installer installed my antenna. He used a multiplexer to run the antenna through my existing cable network. Therefore I did not need to run any additional cables through the wall.

Can somenone recommend an antenna for picking up HD locals OTA. I live in Valdosta, and am leaning towards the Zenith ZHDTV1 HDTV-UHF Digital Indoor Antenna, but Im not sure it will be strong enough. Any help is greatly appreciated.



You will need a strong antenna. I also live in Valdosta near Moody. I have two outdoor antenna's. I have a DB8 and WGGS2200. Both are amplified. I only get CBS and FOX. Nothing else comes in. I have it on the outside. They are fined two as well. My DB8 is to get a signal as far as 100 miles. But, the only two station running in high power are FOX and CBS. The others, well rather wait until 2009 when they are forced to go full HD. Needless to say, I have tried to waivers, calleds the GM and engineers as well. All failed.

"The others, well rather wait until 2009 when they are forced to go full HD."

No stations are being forced to go full HD in 2009, they are being forced to go digital. So don't be too disappointed in 2009 when there are not that many more HD channels

Yeah, I went ahead and bought an outdoor antenna, which Im locating in the attic above the tv. Can you give any suggestions on how to run the antenna cable down through the wall. Im trying to keep it as clean as possible. Thanks

Using the existing cabling is definitely the way to go. The advantage is that you can place the antenna (in my case, an amplified indoor antenna in my apartment) wherever you get the best signal. In my situation, I have the antenna on a window sill in one of the bedrooms, which runs to the coaxial connection in that room. This then feeds the antenna's signal to the rest of the apartment.

Doing this I am able to get everything digitally except NBC, whereas before, when it was in my living room with the TV, I could only get CBS and FOX. This also has the added bonus of not having "rabbit ears" sitting on top of my new HDTV!

Ok, I got my antenna up and running. Im in Valdosta and I have it turned SW towards Tallahassee. Can someone give me a list of channels I should be recieving? Right now Im getting 10 channels.

Fill out the form at http://antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx and it'll tell you what channels are in your area.

Ok, I got my antenna up and running. Im in Valdosta and I have it turned SW towards Tallahassee. Can someone give me a list of channels I should be recieving? Right now Im getting 10 channels.

I live west of Valdosta and I get WCTV, WTWC, WTLH and WTXL.

Walt

Quick question, I am seeing a WCTV-H, WTWC-S, WTLH-D, WTLH-C. What do the last letters symbolize?

Quick question, I am seeing a WCTV-H, WTWC-S, WTLH-D, WTLH-C. What do the last letters symbolize?


Each of these stations broadcast in HD and Standard -1 will be their Hi Def -2 will be their standard.

WTCV-H is HD
WTWC-S is Standard
WTLH-D is HD
WTLH-C is Standard the C probably Stands for CW

Did anyone notice in Valdosta Mediacom added WTWC-40 (Tallahassee) to HD Channels - 829?

If you ask me that was about the dumbest thing you could do.. Out of our 14 HD Channels, 2 are NBC. The news on either station is not broadcast in HD yet (So you can watch it in SD on Channel 13) and both channels have the same programming - So what is the benefit?

Why is it sometimes I'll have a perfect picture with a signal strength of only 50-60, but other times I may have a signal strength of 80-90 on another channel and have the picture breaking up? I thought the higher the signal strength the better?

Why is it sometimes I'll have a perfect picture with a signal strength of only 50-60, but other times I may have a signal strength of 80-90 on another channel and have the picture breaking up? I thought the higher the signal strength the better?

Welcome to the wonderful world of digital. You could have multipath - try adjusting the aim of your antenna or getting a more directional one. - You could have too much signal - get a pad. - the station could be screwing up - call and complain (yeah, I know, nobody's there when you really want to see something at night)

If your receiver will also do analog, see what the analog channel for that station looks like -- most stations have the analog & digital on the same tower.

Why is it sometimes I'll have a perfect picture with a signal strength of only 50-60, but other times I may have a signal strength of 80-90 on another channel and have the picture breaking up? I thought the higher the signal strength the better?

The problem could be further up the broadcast chain, and the local station is just passing it on to you. GIGO.

Hello I have discovered a problem many of you already know of and have. The Dish 622 box will lockup/drop out when receiving WTLH Fox49's feed. You probably don't have a problem with your antenna if you receive the other stations without problems.

The problem is on our end and involves timing (pcr). The microwave should not be the problem can't blame it anymore have to find something else.
I am working on it with help from Dish. More as I can.

It won't help if you record but if you have a receiver in your television go it it and you should see the feed without problems.


I will get you digital tv (watchable) before Feb 09 (may in Jan 09 but will be before Feb)

Ok WTLHFOXHD, we're now half way through February (unless you really meant 2009). Have you abandoned us?

Welcome to the wonderful world of digital. You could have multipath - try adjusting the aim of your antenna or getting a more directional one. - You could have too much signal - get a pad. - the station could be screwing up - call and complain (yeah, I know, nobody's there when you really want to see something at night)

If your receiver will also do analog, see what the analog channel for that station looks like -- most stations have the analog & digital on the same tower.

If you have meter on your equipment, you will find that signal drops entirely for a moment or so and then back to normal level.

I checked out and Lowe got the CM amplifier (3041 DSB). I installed it yesterday and entire night's recording did not seem to have drop outs. I have not watched the shows yet to know for absolute that there are no drop outs.

I will keep you all posted here.

Anyone else having problems with WTXL? Im not getting anything

I am in Tallahassee and have a Samsung 5053 -- plasma 720p and am trying to decide if I am having issues with my set or the broadcast.

My HD reception for CBS has lots of macroblocking whether I am viewing OTA or through my Motorola STB. I do not notice this problem on Fox hardly at all. Is this due to the CBS broadcast being at 1080i and Fox is 720p (the set's native resolution)? The SUper Bowl and the Grammy's were both VERY blocky and I was wondering if anyone else has noticed this. Meanwhile, the Daytona 500 looked very clean. Is the CBS broadcast weaker here in Tallahassee or is it caused by the 1080i to 720p downconversion?

Thanks

Anyone else having problems with WTXL? Im not getting anything


I have had no problems with WTXL but they do run a lot of test when HD programing is not on.

FSN FLORIDA HD BASEBALL SCHEDULE IS OUT!
Marlins: http://www.sunsportstv.com/hdtv_programs.jhtml?method=listSeparate&hdtv_programs.team=Florida%20Marlins
Rays: http://www.sunsportstv.com/hdtv_programs.jhtml?method=listSeparate&hdtv_programs.team=Tampa%20Bay%20Devil%20Rays

FSN FLORIDA HD BASEBALL SCHEDULE IS OUT!
Marlins: http://www.sunsportstv.com/hdtv_programs.jhtml?method=listSeparate&hdtv_programs.team=Florida%20Marlins
Rays: http://www.sunsportstv.com/hdtv_programs.jhtml?method=listSeparate&hdtv_programs.team=Tampa%20Bay%20Devil%20Rays

Love to see all the games. Looks great!

Question though:

Has anyone else had any problems with Ch. 401 FSN-HD? Every Florida Panthers game seems to be blacked-out. Will this happen for the Fish and Rays?? I sure hope not. Anyone have any ideas what is going on with that? Thanks.

Marlins and Rays are statewide, Panthers games only air in South Florida.

The Comcast guide is not the North Florida feed that we get.

FSN 401 will air the Marlins, Rays, and national FSN-HD programs.

I am in Tallahassee and have a Samsung 5053 -- plasma 720p and am trying to decide if I am having issues with my set or the broadcast.

My HD reception for CBS has lots of macroblocking whether I am viewing OTA or through my Motorola STB. I do not notice this problem on Fox hardly at all. Is this due to the CBS broadcast being at 1080i and Fox is 720p (the set's native resolution)? The SUper Bowl and the Grammy's were both VERY blocky and I was wondering if anyone else has noticed this. Meanwhile, the Daytona 500 looked very clean. Is the CBS broadcast weaker here in Tallahassee or is it caused by the 1080i to 720p downconversion?

Thanks

So does anyone else notice more macroblocking on CBS than Fox or is it just me?

So does anyone else notice more macroblocking on CBS than Fox or is it just me?
Actually mine is the opposite. CBS comes in great...probably my best channel, while fox is my worst with tons of macroblocking and drop outs. However I use a Vip 622 and I believe fox has problems running a signal through it.

So does anyone else notice more macroblocking on CBS than Fox or is it just me?

I sometimes have problems with CBS but not consistently. It does give me more problems than any of the other networks. I have problems with FOX when I run it through my 622 but not my TV. When I have problems with CBS it dosen't matter where I run it through my 622 or TV it is the same.

If you have meter on your equipment, you will find that signal drops entirely for a moment or so and then back to normal level.

I checked out and Lowe got the CM amplifier (3041 DSB). I installed it yesterday and entire night's recording did not seem to have drop outs. I have not watched the shows yet to know for absolute that there are no drop outs.

I will keep you all posted here.

The amplifier appears to do good for me so far (I hope I don't jinx it).
All CBS recordings had been good, no pixelation so far.

Tally Comcast has announced four new HD channels starting March 1 - A&E, Universal, National Geographic, and Comcast Sports (?). Channels numbers were not available when I called. They already started up with the HD golf channel. Why the F can't they give us the HD channels we really want - CW and SciFi? Or some of those good free movie channels, like Sundance? Next I guess we will get the HD food channel!

I believe Comcast owns Golf/versus. Plus...speak for yourself about what "we really want," because personally, I think the Golf Channel HD is unbelievable! Even if I weren't a golf fan I would think that. The feed is amazing and watching a tournament like the one at Pebble Beach a few weeks ago...wow...most beautiful place in the world. :)

And as for the channels...I believe my receiver said something about the channels being like 409, 411, and 413? I'm not sure exactly...something around there.

I believe Comcast owns Golf/versus. Plus...speak for yourself about what "we really want," because personally, I think the Golf Channel HD is unbelievable! Even if I weren't a golf fan I would think that. The feed is amazing and watching a tournament like the one at Pebble Beach a few weeks ago...wow...most beautiful place in the world. :)

And as for the channels...I believe my receiver said something about the channels being like 409, 411, and 413? I'm not sure exactly...something around there.


Of course we all have opinions on what we want, but I suspect the fact you play golf has everything to do with your love of that channel. But I feel pretty safe in saying more people watch the SciFi channel than watch the golf channel. I guess the golf channel is cheaper for Comcast, so that's what we get. And that means we can now look forward to the HD Shopping Channel and the HD Gardening Channel. ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ :( ;)

Why the F can't they give us the HD channels we really want - CW and SciFi? Or some of those good free movie channels, like Sundance? Next I guess we will get the HD food channel!

Well, considering that the Sci-Fi HD channel doesn't exist yet, Comcast would be hard pressed to offer it. Same goes for Sundance. There is a HD Food Network channel though...

Sci-Fi HD will be starting up the second half of this year (DirecTV will be carrying it), but at least you get UniversalHD which carries some good HD SciFi reruns ("Battlestar Galactica", "Firefly", "Stargate: Atlantis", etc.) as well as some good SciFi movies.

~Alan

But I feel pretty safe in saying more people watch the SciFi channel than watch the golf channel.

I feel pretty safe in saying more people watch the Golf channel than SciFi channel. Maybe not readers of this forum, but cable viewers in general. I would be interested in actual proof though (as I have been unable to find anything). No hard feelings though. :)

I feel pretty safe in saying more people watch the Golf channel than SciFi channel. Maybe not readers of this forum, but cable viewers in general. I would be interested in actual proof though (as I have been unable to find anything). No hard feelings though. :)

If I were a betting man (and I am not) I would take you up on that. No hard feelings here.

Well, considering that the Sci-Fi HD channel doesn't exist yet, Comcast would be hard pressed to offer it. Same goes for Sundance. There is a HD Food Network channel though...

Sci-Fi HD will be starting up the second half of this year (DirecTV will be carrying it), but at least you get UniversalHD which carries some good HD SciFi reruns ("Battlestar Galactica", "Firefly", "Stargate: Atlantis", etc.) as well as some good SciFi movies.

~Alan

I thought SciFi was already available in HD, but you seem to know otherwise. Hopefully when it is in HD Comcast will make it available.

I checked out the new Comcast HD channels briefly (very briefly) last night and Universal HD looks like it could be pretty good, and Nat. Geo. should be as well. Not sure about the others, however. What about FX? I am pretty sure they broadcast in HD and they have some excellent programs (Dirt, Nip Tuck, The Shield).

A question for WTLHFOXHD: On the Comcast CW channel, why does Smallville look normal (decent) in terms of PQ while on Tuesday nights Gilmore Girls and Veronica Mars look like you are watching them under water - extremely soft and blurry, to the point of causing eye strain? Don't they all originate in HD? Is the FOX/CW bandwidth compromised on Tuesday nights in a way it is not on Thursdays?

What about FX? I am pretty sure they broadcast in HD and they have some excellent programs (Dirt, Nip Tuck, The Shield).

FX is one of the networks that DirecTV announced that they would carry in HD in 2007. I don't believe that FX has announced when they will begin broadcasting in HD. I would really like to see Comcast pick up the HD feed when they start.

What out-of-market stations (analog and digital) can you receive from Tallahassee? I live in the northeast section off Bradfordville Road. I have used smaller antennas (e.g. Radioshack 15-2187, Winegard GS 1100) with limited ranges. These can pick up the local channels, and Georgia Public TV from Pelham. I can't put up a large antenna on the roof; I am thus mainly limited to the attic. I want to see if others with larger antennas can receive watchable TV from markets like Dothan, Panama City, Albany, Gainesville, Jacksonville, etc? If others haven't had much luck, it might cause me to concentrate only on local channels.

Thanks!

From Northeast Tallahassee, you will prohbably have the best luck with the Albany market. However, the new WALB/WFXL tower will not be up until May or June. WALB will be on 17 (moving to 10 in 2009) and WFXL will be on 12. The others are too far for regular reception.

Thanks Neil!

I still will hunt for the occasional signal from the other cities. However, regular viewing does appear to be unlikely. It might be fun to have a high tower with a large antenna on the top. However, that is not possible where we live.

Hey everybody. Has anyone heard anything about WTXL's new studio? I read that it would be completed in February. I know they won't be doing their own HD switching for awhile, but I was at least hoping to see some local news in HD.

My cousin is looking to pull in his locals via OTA. He lives in Valdosta, across from freedom park. Can anyone, maybe someone that stays in the general area suggest an antenna that would be good for him? Thanks!

For the first time in I don't know how long we were able to actually watch a show on WTLH-Fox without constant breakup or complete loss of signal.

The signal level was down a bit (65), but it held steady.

Anybody else encountering this?

Not me. I tried to watch American Idol, but there was just too many drop outs. Thats with a signal of ~89 for the most part. Sux

For the first time in I don't know how long we were able to actually watch a show on WTLH-Fox without constant breakup or complete loss of signal.

The signal level was down a bit (65), but it held steady.

Anybody else encountering this?

I still get dropouts when I watch WTLH on my 622. It's not as bad as it use to be but if I watch FOX for any length of time I still use my TV tuner.

I also still get dropouts on my 622, but for the tv in the family room it doesn't have a built in tuner so I would like that fixed! I tried an attenuator with no success, but don't know where to get an additional one if perhaps 2 would work.

Anyone lost their signal ?

No Pictures, sound at all since last night sometimes to this time.

Channel 40's analog signal is coming in poorly. I am not getting a digital siganl at all. Usually I get an OK analog and a somewhat weak digital.

I first noticed this last night when I was experimenting with a signal amplifier on my antenna. I first thought that I had affected the internal circuitry on the RS 15-2187 with my experiments. Whew!

WTWC digital is still off the air does anybody know what the problem is?

WTWC digital is still off the air does anybody know what the problem is?

I sent an email (via their web site) and someone had called me back.

He indicated that nothing wrong on his side that he could see. I said I would check and let him know.

I called home to have my wife check out and here is the result:

1. My DirecTV DVR (HR10-250) has no picture or sound on 40-1 at all.
2. My HD receiver though got picture and sound on 40-1.

Both uses same antenna and line, only being split out just right before the equipments.

I said that I would keep the guy informed (via email).
Any chance I can get a poll of how many of us being affected and what kind of equipments you have, I will pass on the info to the guy.

Thanks.

Based on my issue, the Signal is there. My HR10-250 does not complain about not receiving the OTA signal, it's just that signal does not carry any picture or sound.

I have a Dish 622 and get no picture or sound; screen says OTA signal lost and trying to re-acquire (both 40-1 and 40-2)

Thanks for contacting them!

I have a Dish 622 and get no picture or sound; screen says OTA signal lost and trying to re-acquire (both 40-1 and 40-2)

Thanks for contacting them!

No problem.

I had sent the person the email and also pointed him to this forum.
On my equipments, I will have to check them out when get home today. Unfortunatelly, I don't think I can pass my info to WTWC until the weekend (which most likely they will not get them until Monday).

I have a Dish 622 and get no picture or sound; screen says OTA signal lost and trying to re-acquire (both 40-1 and 40-2)

Thanks for contacting them!

My 622 will not pickup WTWC although I have had no problems before. I can still pickup WTWC on my TV receiver. WTWC must have changed something. It could have been caused by a Dish software upgrade but something changed.

Interesting like my case. I have not been able to check them out myself so I am not too certain.

It all started two nights ago when I noticed my Medium recording was at 0:00 hour. Then found out I got no picture and sound.

I hope the person check the message board out. Unfortunately, without prior approval, I can not share his email address to you all here. If need to, please try to go to their website, click on contact us, then select Engineering to send them a note.

Same here on Dish 622.

No Picture, sound, or signal WTWC-NBC -which has always been rock solid.
The usual unwatchable drops on WTLH-FOX -but they've almost always been this way.
Good signal and picture on WTXL-ABC

Maybe WTWC has borrowed something from WTLH :p

The 622 update was about a week ago and was only for Daylight Savings Time issues. Mine was fine after the update.

I have a Dish 622 and get no picture or sound; screen says OTA signal lost and trying to re-acquire (both 40-1 and 40-2)

Thanks for contacting them!

I got them around 6:30 PM today on 2.1. Nothing on 40.1
Remember this a Sinclair owed station and they operate in their own little world.
:rolleyes:

I got them mapped to (on HR10-250) 2.3 for Digital and 2.4 for SD.

That won't do any good since this mapping does not have any guide, no tivo capability.

I will send them an update email and see what response I got.

The signal on my 622 for WTWC is still 95 + it just want lock onto the station anymore.

I got them mapped to (on HR10-250) 2.3 for Digital and 2.4 for SD.

That won't do any good since this mapping does not have any guide, no tivo capability.

I will send them an update email and see what response I got.

Who knows what terminology I have to use to tell WTWC about this mapping issue ?

It's strange that I have two different mappings on two different equipments and you also have a third one.

1. HR10-250 got mapped to 2.3
2. Hughes HD receiver mapped to 40.1
3. 622 mappped to 2.1

Go figured.

My Panasonic plasma no longer maps WTWC correctly it now maps it at 2-3. So it's not just the satellite receivers that have problems with it. They must have changed something.

OTA HR10 250, having the same problem in valdosta

Same problem here. No picture or sound on 40-1 or 40-2. Signal strength is good (90) on physcial channel 2 on Tivo 10-250.

I downloaded the new "cutting edge" software elease for the direct TV HR20-700 last night. Still unable to receive any signal on physical channel 2. According to the DBS board this is a flaw in the unit and hopefully can be fixed in software updates at some point. Bruce

Same problem here. No picture or sound on 40-1 or 40-2. Signal strength is good (90) on physcial channel 2 on Tivo 10-250.

I downloaded the new "cutting edge" software elease for the direct TV HR20-700 last night. Still unable to receive any signal on physical channel 2. According to the DBS board this is a flaw in the unit and hopefully can be fixed in software updates at some point. Bruce

I think it's the broadcast.
If you use your HR10-250 to check OTA strength, you will find that it shows that Frequency 2 is mapped to 2-3.

I had sent WTWC engineer the email regarding this mapping issue. Hopefully they will get to it.

I had sent WTWC engineer the email regarding this mapping issue. Hopefully they will get to it.

I've never been able to get WTWC-DT over the air...here's to waiting until Feb. 2009 before getting NBC in HD.

Maybe when they fix this problem, they'll accidentally bump up the power on the digital transmission... ;)

WTWC is back at 40-1 on my 622.

My HR10-250 is also confirmed fixed. Picture and sound on 40.1.
I guessed they acted after receiving my email.

Now if we can just get FOX and the 622 on the same page..

My thoughts exactly. WTLHFOX, you still here? Any update? I haven't been watching Fox as much as I would otherwise because of the constant breakups for OTA HD

March Madness begins on Thursday. All of the "flex" games are available (and will be broadcast) in HD. However, when CBS assigns us to be a "constant", we're not able to broadcast the constant game in HD. We will be constant on Florida/Jackson State on Friday night so that one can not be in HD. Everything else should be.

Chris

No sound from WTWC when I run it through my 622.

No sound from WTWC when I run it through my 622

Same with me :-(

Hello, new here. If this is in the wrong place please move it.

I live in Tallahassee off Pedrick Road (Buck Lake area). I'm going to upgrade my current Dish Network to HD, using the 622 box. I want to install an OTA for locals in my attic. Any ideas on a good one and what channels can I expect to receive? Any input would be great, thanks.

Welcome to the AVS Forum goat. For the antenna and channels, check out http://www.antennaweb.org/

Goat1976.

This is what I have in my attic from Antennasdirect.com

4DXB: DB4 UHF Large Multi-directional Antenna DB4 High gin Multi-directional UHF 1
EU385CF: UHF/VHF antenna combiner with F connecti 1
HM3LBV: V4 MK2 Low band VHF antenna w/ F connect 1

This setup picks up WCTV-CBS, WTXL-ABC, WTWC-NBC (when they are working) very well
Don't count on WTLH-FOX though unless you do some other mods to get around their incompatibility with Dish HD receivers. Apparently neither WTLH or E* are interested in finding a solution.

You may also be able to get WFSU from your location.

Thanks for the feedback.

Disappointed about the issues with Fox. I guess I could get a small indoor antenna to pick it up, just won't be able to record with the 622.

Does the CW work for anyone?

Also, does anyone know if Dish plans on getting locals in HD?

If your Television has an HD tuner (mine doesn't), you could split off the feed from the antenna package above directly to it. But you are correct, no DVR.

I don't think that dish has announced HD locals for Tallahassee yet. They have a number of bigger markets way ahead of us.

The CW as the Fox sub-channel 49.2 OTA suffers the same problem as 49.1. :mad:

No sound from WTWC when I run it through my 622.
same here....along with a VERY horrible picture that has 2-3 shows stepping on of each other

same here....along with a VERY horrible picture that has 2-3 shows stepping on of each other

As previously reported WTWC-TV (NBC) is now back on OTA 40.1 an 40.2. As of 6:40PM local, I 'm getting audio and video using built in tunner. Apparently the problems continue with those that have dish tunners. :(

Couple of comments about WCTV's coverage of the basketball games today...

At the end of the 2nd game, they cut away from CBS' coverage just about the second the game clock hit zero cutting off the announcer mid-sentence to run an ad for their web site and started their local newscast. I remember a game a couple weeks ago when they did the same thing cutting away to local news the second the game ended. It would be nice if they waited until CBS' coverage completed. I like to see how the players react after the game and the post-game show.

At the start of tonight's Duke game, they were running a crawl about some shows coming up over on WCTV-DT2 in a crawl that completely covered up the CBS scoreboard. If anybody from WCTV reads this, could you shrink the screen down a little so the CBS scoreboard isn't covered up?

WCTV is behind the times. WRAL in Raleigh is apparently showing ALL of the games! I guess we should be glad that we have 1 HD feed. ;-(

WCTV is behind the times. WRAL in Raleigh is apparently showing ALL of the games! I guess we should be glad that we have 1 HD feed. ;-(

Yeah I lived in Atlanta last year at this time and WGCL did the same thing as the station in Raleigh by broadcasting the other games on subchannels.

With WCTV already broadcasting My Network TV on a subchannel, I don't think they ever could do what the stations in Atlanta or Raleigh do without starving all the channels for quality.

Yeah I lived in Atlanta last year at this time and WGCL did the same thing as the station in Raleigh by broadcasting the other games on subchannels.

With WCTV already broadcasting My Network TV on a subchannel, I don't think they ever could do what the stations in Atlanta or Raleigh do without starving all the channels for quality.

I think it depends on whether you are talking about cable or OTA. OTA, no one can multiplex without starving the bitrate. WCTV is not as good now as it was before they added WCTV2. I see lots more compression artifacts (i.e. pixellation) now. On cable I don't think it would be a problem, but I may be wrong. I don't listen that closely on such things since I don't have cable. OTA, no one could do 4 games on one channel without looking awful, especially if one or more feeds were HD. 4 HD feeds would likely look terrible.

I think it depends on whether you are talking about cable or OTA. OTA, no one can multiplex without starving the bitrate. WCTV is not as good now as it was before they added WCTV2. I see lots more compression artifacts (i.e. pixellation) now. On cable I don't think it would be a problem, but I may be wrong. I don't listen that closely on such things since I don't have cable. OTA, no one could do 4 games on one channel without looking awful, especially if one or more feeds were HD. 4 HD feeds would likely look terrible.

Yeah I was talking about OTA. In Atlanta for the first round they do four games on four channels, all in SD.

Ugh today WCTV cut away from the tournament for local news before all the games were even over.

Anyone still having problems with WTWC(NBC)? Im getting 0 signal :(

No surprise here that WCTV has had NO HD since 7:30. Nice going!

No surprise here that WCTV has had NO HD since 7:30. Nice going!

WCTV is getting back at everybody because I complained about them cutting away from the games before they were finished earlier today.

Sorry I ruined it for everybody :o

Anyone still having problems with WTWC(NBC)? Im getting 0 signal :(

I get WTWC both picture and sound over my TV tuner but I only get the picture without sound on my 622.

I am only getting a black screen ("hidden program") on WFSU 11.2, 11.3, 11.4. No programming can be viewed. 11.1 is coming in as normal.

I am only getting a black screen ("hidden program") on WFSU 11.2, 11.3, 11.4. No programming can be viewed. 11.1 is coming in as normal.

It seems to be working for me. I know WFSU's subchannels are off the air at times like when 11.1 is broadcasting in HD.

WTWC and Dish 622. I am not getting any sound on WTWC on my 622 but if I hit record and jump back the sound is fine as long as it's recording. Have any of you had this happen on your 622?

Yeah, WTWC and WTXL arent working for me either....actually Im getting 0 signal. Anyone else having a problem? Trying to see if it may be on my end

I have no problem picking up either one.

I received their signals, as well; still no audio on 40-1 or 40-2 on my 622

I received their signals, as well; still no audio on 40-1 or 40-2 on my 622

Have you tried skiping back a couple of times to see if the sound works then? Works on mine.

Have you tried skiping back a couple of times to see if the sound works then? Works on mine.
I haven't tried that. Is this a one time fix or do you have to do it each time you tune to 40-1???

I haven't tried that. Is this a one time fix or do you have to do it each time you tune to 40-1???


No it's not a one time fix you have to do it each time but that's all know to do for now.

For those interested I just spoke with John Clark, the engineer at WTXL and he said they plan to switch their master control to the new Tally station and go full HD on May 28. He is not sure if they will have full 5.1 audio capability but he was on his way to a meeting and said he would raise that issue.

For those interested I just spoke with John Clark, the engineer at WTXL and he said they plan to switch their master control to the new Tally station and go full HD on May 28. He is not sure if they will have full 5.1 audio capability but he was on his way to a meeting and said he would raise that issue.

I am VERY interested. I hope that happens...it would be FANTASTIC! Thanks for the info DSmith.

That's great, but will they be full power or do we still have to wait for 2009 to get it in Valdosta OTA?

Finally some good news. Now if they can just fix the problem with the 622

The WTLH FOX49 digital signal drop-out and pixelation problem on the DISH VIP622 receiver seems to have been solved with the the latest software download (L4.01). Most receivers did not receive the new software download yet but should in the next week or so, if the new software has no new major bugs.

The WTLH FOX49 digital signal drop-out and pixelation problem on the DISH VIP622 receiver seems to have been solved with the the latest software download (L4.01). Most receivers did not receive the new software download yet but should in the next week or so, if the new software has no new major bugs.
good lookn out. Thanks!

Is anyone having issues with Comcast 232 (NBCHD)? I have not gotten the HD feed for at least a week.

Is anyone having issues with Comcast 232 (NBCHD)? I have not gotten the HD feed for at least a week.

I noticed it Friday and Saturday while watching Conan and SNL. Thursday was fine though Andy Barker was in HD.

Is anyone having issues with Comcast 232 (NBCHD)? I have not gotten the HD feed for at least a week.

Appears to be having same issue again. My HR10-250 got mapped to 2.3.
Sent them another email and see.

Will keep you all posted.

Has anyone else noticed that those new HD channels that Comcast wasted bandwidth on are mostly showing upconverted SD material with the black sidebars? Only Univeral (Ch. 409) consistently shows true HD material.

Appears to be having same issue again. My HR10-250 got mapped to 2.3.
Sent them another email and see.

Will keep you all posted.

I sent them an email as well. I was really looking forward to the golf and SNL in HD this weekend. I guess I can live with it for now but they better get it working before Heroes comes back in April!

Does anybody know if the two stations in Doerun got their tower close to running yet?

Does anybody know if the two stations in Doerun got their tower close to running yet?

From what I have heard so far, the analog/digital tower WALB and WFXL are jointly building near Doerun should be completed and operational later this spring.

Any new info on ABC HD? It has been almost a year. I'm wondering if I will even get to see an episode of Lost in HD this season. :(

Any new info on ABC HD? It has been almost a year. I'm wondering if I will even get to see an episode of Lost in HD this season. :(

I posted this a few days ago (3/22):

"For those interested I just spoke with John Clark, the engineer at WTXL and he said they plan to switch their master control to the new Tally station and go full HD on May 28. He is not sure if they will have full 5.1 audio capability but he was on his way to a meeting and said he would raise that issue. "

The WTLH FOX49 digital signal drop-out and pixelation problem on the DISH VIP622 receiver seems to have been solved with the the latest software download (L4.01). Most receivers did not receive the new software download yet but should in the next week or so, if the new software has no new major bugs.

My Dish VIP622 received the new software last night. The first thing I did was check WTLH. I got the same signal fluctuation, and loss of signal that I usually do.

GaDog, had you received the update, or were you just reporting on the improvements found in other parts of the country?

Do any of you other 622 owners in Tallahassee see a difference?

Ironically, I was able to watch 24 last night before the software update without too much breakup. Maybe the FOX folks were tweaking, or maybe the atmospheric conditions were just right.

My Dish VIP622 received the new software last night. The first thing I did was check WTLH. I got the same signal fluctuation, and loss of signal that I usually do.

Bummer. I'll check mine tonight.

I sent an e-mail to WTWC engineering about the lack of sound on 40-1 and 40-2 but have not received a reply. Hitting the back button on the dvr works, but it is a pain if you want to change channels...

I posted this a few days ago (3/22):

"For those interested I just spoke with John Clark, the engineer at WTXL and he said they plan to switch their master control to the new Tally station and go full HD on May 28. He is not sure if they will have full 5.1 audio capability but he was on his way to a meeting and said he would raise that issue. "


Thanks for the update. That means we should get the final two episodes of the season in HD. Better than nothing, I suppose.

From what I have heard so far, the analog/digital tower WALB and WFXL are jointly building near Doerun should be completed and operational later this spring.

According to what I heard last, the tower should be operational in the May-June timeframe.

~Alan

According to what I heard last, the tower should be operational in the May-June timeframe.

~Alan

Why would anyone build an "analog" transmission tower this close to the all-digital deadline?

Why would anyone build an "analog" transmission tower this close to the all-digital deadline?

What the stations will do is broadcast both analog and digital signals from the same tower until 2/17/09, then turn the analog transmitters off.

Why would anyone build an "analog" transmission tower this close to the all-digital deadline?

Because their original analog towers were knocked down. A military chopper crashed into WFXL (FOX 31) and since it was beyond repair, they had to demolish it to build a new one... which is when it hit WALB's (NBC 10) tower causing it to fall as well. Both stations are currently broadcasting lower powered analog and their regular digital signals from Albany currently until they get a new tower which both stations will share that will hold transmitters for both stations analog and digital transmitters until 2009 when their analog transmitters will come down.

~Alan

My Dish VIP622 received the new software last night. The first thing I did was check WTLH. I got the same signal fluctuation, and loss of signal that I usually do.

GaDog, had you received the update, or were you just reporting on the improvements found in other parts of the country?

Do any of you other 622 owners in Tallahassee see a difference?

Ironically, I was able to watch 24 last night before the software update without too much breakup. Maybe the FOX folks were tweaking, or maybe the atmospheric conditions were just right.
I received the L4.01 software early last Friday morning (3-22-07). My signal strength is in the mid 90s and I have seen no pixelation or loss or signal since then.

Because their original analog towers were knocked down. A military chopper crashed into WFXL (FOX 31) and since it was beyond repair, they had to demolish it to build a new one... which is when it hit WALB's (NBC 10) tower causing it to fall as well. Both stations are currently broadcasting lower powered analog and their regular digital signals from Albany currently until they get a new tower which both stations will share that will hold transmitters for both stations analog and digital transmitters until 2009 when their analog transmitters will come down.

~Alan

So in 2009 they will have to convert it to a digital transmission tower. BTW, did the military pay for the new tower required by the accident?

I received the L4.01 software early last Friday morning (3-22-07). My signal strength is in the mid 90s and I have seen no pixelation or loss or signal since then.

Bummer for me then. Still very poor here as of last night. For the few seconds I was able to see a signal, it was around 65. I wonder if it has something to do with distance?

Any other 622 owners, please add your findings.

So in 2009 they will have to convert it to a digital transmission tower. BTW, did the military pay for the new tower required by the accident?

Actually... it will be converted to their digital transmission tower this year... it will just double as their analog tower.

They were about to move their digital transmitters to the previous towers when they fell (within a month or two... or at least WALB was), so when they fell, they continued broadcasting low-powered digital signals from their temporary digital towers... meaning that a lot of their DMA still can't receive their digital signal.

However, when the tower is done, both their digital signals will be going full-power, as well as going back to full powered analog (as their analog channels are now low powered as well).

As far as the military, I doubt it, but that's why stations have insurance. BTW, several military people died in that copter crash... I just realized I didn't mention that...

~Alan

Any other 622 owners, please add your findings.

No change for me. My signal strength is in the lower 90's but I have too much pixelation to make it watchable :(

Any other 622 owners, please add your findings.

Still pixelating too much to watch on my 622, and WTWC 40-1 and 40-2 still no audio.

Well I have a 622 and the new L401 software. I was a beta tester last week with the software and lost all my OTAs and could not get them back. I had the receiver replaced (my fourth) I now have L401 with the new receiver and can now get OTAs back. The software has cleaned up the problem with WTLH and I was having the same problem with WSWG I think because I live so close to the tower (3 miles); probably just overload. The software cleaned up both signals and they are rock solid. I still can't get WTXL (please go full power) and WTWC. It will be nice when WALB goes on air this summer so I'll have all networks except ABC.

Why is the NCAA Final Four games going in and out of HD with Comcast? Is this just me?

Edit: It seems to be working just fine now. Sometimes, however, I wish Comcast was a person and I was legally allowed to choke that person! ;)

Will you have to ask for the new software for the 622 or will it be automatically downloaded to the system?

It will be automatically downloaded when your number comes up assuming that you allow your 622 to sleep once in a while.

The easy way to tell if you've got it is you'll notice a small HD symbol in the channel guides and you'll see some of the HD channels mapped down next to their SD counterparts. (Example you'll see ESPN-HD next to ESPN).

The other way is to click on Menu twice and look for the software version.

I would like to thank WTLHFOXHD for whatever he has done to improve the CW channel on Comcast. It is not perfect - PQ varies from minute to minute mainly due to what looks like faint RF banding fading in and out, and some CW network shows look softer than others even though they originate as HD (Gilmore Girls vs Smallville). The constant loud hum on the audio has dropped to an almost unnoticeable level, and while black levels are still sometimes lacking, overall it is a big improvement over what I was seeing before on that channel. So thanks WTLHFOXHD.

It will be automatically downloaded when your number comes up assuming that you allow your 622 to sleep once in a while.


How do I determine when my number will come up? I hope its soon...

It's by groups of serial numbers.
Lots of information here. http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=107

I would like to thank WTLHFOXHD for whatever he has done to improve the CW channel on Comcast. It is not perfect - PQ varies from minute to minute mainly due to what looks like faint RF banding fading in and out, and some CW network shows look softer than others even though they originate as HD (Gilmore Girls vs Smallville). The constant loud hum on the audio has dropped to an almost unnoticeable level, and while black levels are still sometimes lacking, overall it is a big improvement over what I was seeing before on that channel. So thanks WTLHFOXHD.


Well, maybe I spoke too soon. Smallville last Thursday was back to where it was - lots of apparent analog noise and some strange audio as well. Guess things are not fixed yet after all. The odd thing is PQ varies so much by the program - most CW network stuff sucks while syndicated shows are pretty much okay (not great but not an eye-sore). And with the network shows the PQ varies almost minute to minute - I think a lot of it is RF interference, as if the local station is receiving the CW network via an analog transmission, not digital (?). I swear sometimes it looks like they pick it up OTA using rabbit ears and then send it to Comcast. I wonder if that is the case.

has anyone been able to watch a single show on FSN-HD (channel 401, comcast).
usually it is "off-air" but last night there was supposed to be a baseball game on, but the only thing on that channel was a notice that "This channel should be available shortly."

Comast needs to stop advertising they carry FSN-HD if there is never any programming available.

Neon

has anyone been able to watch a single show on FSN-HD (channel 401, comcast).
usually it is "off-air" but last night there was supposed to be a baseball game on, but the only thing on that channel was a notice that "This channel should be available shortly."

Comast needs to stop advertising they carry FSN-HD if there is never any programming available.

Neon


I don't think I have ever seen anything there - just a waste of (potential) bandwidth. 409 was a nice addition, however.

has anyone been able to watch a single show on FSN-HD (channel 401, comcast)

They need to get their act together; last night's Devil Rays - Rangers game was on in HD on satellite. The picture was better than the game, though... :-)

Ok guys, I am tired of no ABC and NBC in HD and now FOXS is on Dish's 129 sat. not 61.5. I know that Atlanta HD locals are on 129 Conus but SD locals are on spotbeam on 110 I think. My question is this how far south and east can you get 129 and how far south can you get the Atlanta spotbeam locals? I have a dish pointed at 61.5 and am thinking of moving it to get 129 but I afraid that I won't get it. And even if I do will I be able to get Atlanta SD channels spotbeamed. I need these for the SD receiver I have. If I can I'll "move" to Atlanta. I have "moved" before and I'll do it again. Does anyone know the answer to this?

has anyone been able to watch a single show on FSN-HD (channel 401, comcast).
usually it is "off-air" but last night there was supposed to be a baseball game on, but the only thing on that channel was a notice that "This channel should be available shortly."

Comast needs to stop advertising they carry FSN-HD if there is never any programming available.

Neon

No Marlins game tonight! wtf is going on? Why is nothing ever on this channel? Is there anyone to contact about this? First I was confused b/c the channel was blank 90% of the time. Now, during the 10% of programming...NOTHING SHOWS UP...what gives? Comcast is very frustrating.

Edit: I just sent an email to FSN...we'll see what generic response they give me (just like Comcast has always done)

No Marlins game tonight! wtf is going on?

Sorry, guys, but it is on satellite in HD.... You need to contact Comcast, not FSN

BUT, I still don't get FOX in HD without the breakups :-(

I know that there were several rain delays. Maybe no programing during that time?

No Marlins game tonight! wtf is going on? Why is nothing ever on this channel? Is there anyone to contact about this? First I was confused b/c the channel was blank 90% of the time. Now, during the 10% of programming...NOTHING SHOWS UP...what gives? Comcast is very frustrating.

Edit: I just sent an email to FSN...we'll see what generic response they give me (just like Comcast has always done)

FSN contacted me back. With a REAL answer from a REAL person...it was quite nice to see this. This is what the person said:

"The channel that Comcast assigns for FSN HD is not a full-time channel. It is activated by Comcast only when FSN FL is distributing a game in HD. We will contact Comcast in Tallahassee regarding their not having last night's and Monday night's MLB games in HD on Ch. 401. Thank you for bringing this to our attention."

So hopefully something will get done.

Is anybody getting FSN-HD on Dish? I'm pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5, but I would consider moving to 129 if it would come in here.

Is anybody getting FSN-HD on Dish? I'm pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5, but I would consider moving to 129 if it would come in here.


I'm getting it and I am also pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5.

I'm getting it and I am also pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5.

Are you sure that's all you are aimed at? I don't get it and according to what I've read it's only on 129. If you're not aimed at 129, I wonder why I'm not getting it . . .

Are you sure that's all you are aimed at? I don't get it and according to what I've read it's only on 129. If you're not aimed at 129, I wonder why I'm not getting it . . .

That’s all I have. I'm getting FOXFL HD on 373. Maybe you are supposed to get another FSN there?

Is anybody getting FSN-HD on Dish? I'm pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5, but I would consider moving to 129 if it would come in here

I am also getting it (FOXFL HD) on my DISH 622, pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5. They showed Devil Rays - Twins last night.

Also, got the new software yesterday and had Fox in HD OTA without pixelation last night! Woohoo!!

COmcast still doesn't know how to air the FSN-HD games. Last night (4/12)we had another blank screen during gametime.

Neon

I am also getting it (FOXFL HD) on my DISH 622, pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5. They showed Devil Rays - Twins last night.

Also, got the new software yesterday and had Fox in HD OTA without pixelation last night! Woohoo!!


My problems with Fox OTA is during the day. At night, my signal is strong (above 90) with no problems. During the day time (before 5/6PM) my signal is awful. I watch it go from the mid 80s down to low 70s, then just lose it all together. I wonder if something different happens during the day compared to evening broadcasts.

I'm getting a V4 Low Band VHF Antenna from antennasdirect to combine with my DB4 antenna today. All in the hopes of getting NBC OTA. I hope I have more luck with NBC than FOX during the day.

I posted this a few days ago (3/22):

"For those interested I just spoke with John Clark, the engineer at WTXL and he said they plan to switch their master control to the new Tally station and go full HD on May 28. He is not sure if they will have full 5.1 audio capability but he was on his way to a meeting and said he would raise that issue. "


Does this mean ABCHD on Comcast?

The Marlins games on FSN Florida and Sun Sports is a complicated situation because Comcast Tallahassee has not the extra 55 game package.

Information on the Marlins Extra package and a schedule of games due to be blacked out on Comcast Tallahassee (http://www.sunsportstv.com/marlins_extra.jsp)

Marlins on FSN HD information (http://www.sunsportstv.com/hdtv_programs.jhtml?method=listSeparate&hdtv_programs.team=Florida%20Marlins)

Unfortunately, unless something big happens (like Comcast Tallahassee buying the Marlins Extra package or FSN lifting the blackout by accident) then we shouldn't see tonight's Marlins game in HD via FSN HD Channel 401.

I am also getting it (FOXFL HD) on my DISH 622, pointed at 110, 119 and 61.5. They showed Devil Rays - Twins last night.

Also, got the new software yesterday and had Fox in HD OTA without pixelation last night! Woohoo!!

I see the confusion now. Living in GA, I get FSN South, which is on 129. Y'all get FSN FL, which is in fact on 119. So, I'll ask more clearly now, is anyone getting FSN South HD on 129? Thanks!

Walt

The Marlins games on FSN Florida and Sun Sports is a complicated situation because Comcast Tallahassee has not the extra 55 game package.

Information on the Marlins Extra package and a schedule of games due to be blacked out on Comcast Tallahassee (http://www.sunsportstv.com/marlins_extra.jsp)

Marlins on FSN HD information (http://www.sunsportstv.com/hdtv_programs.jhtml?method=listSeparate&hdtv_programs.team=Florida%20Marlins)

Unfortunately, unless something big happens (like Comcast Tallahassee buying the Marlins Extra package or FSN lifting the blackout by accident) then we shouldn't see tonight's Marlins game in HD via FSN HD Channel 401.

Wow, that is a blatant misrepresentation by Comcast telling us that we will be getting the FSN-HD games! I sent them an email and I'm sure they won't be able to tell me anything. Maybe I'll give them a call some time this week as well. It is totally ridiculous that they are taking away the bandwidth for this channel and never show anything! Thanks for the info CapeFish

Wow, that is a blatant misrepresentation by Comcast telling us that we will be getting the FSN-HD games! I sent them an email and I'm sure they won't be able to tell me anything. Maybe I'll give them a call some time this week as well. It is totally ridiculous that they are taking away the bandwidth for this channel and never show anything! Thanks for the info CapeFish

They will be showing most FSN Florida HD Marlins games and all FSN Florida HD Rays games....but since they haven't bought the extra 55 games...those may be blacked out on the HD side as well.

Best thing is try 401 tonight and see if you have baseball.

They will be showing most FSN Florida HD Marlins games and all FSN Florida HD Rays games....but since they haven't bought the extra 55 games...those may be blacked out on the HD side as well.

Best thing is try 401 tonight and see if you have baseball.

Did the game work last night? I wasn't at home to check. I know the Fish game got rained out...I have no idea if the Rays played.

hmm, interesting. I hope you are right though. You say all the Rays games should be on, but it wasn't on last week (at least the first one wasn't). The FSN person I contacted did not realize there was a problem and the Comcast people are blaming it on the FSN people (of course copping out)...so I'm not really sure what is going on or who to believe. I would just love to watch my Fish on HD already.

Comcast seems to be having problems getting the FSN HD on the air for games. Keep on both FSN and Comcast about it.

Nice thing is Dish Network added both FSN Florida HD and Sun Sports HD...so we have an option in Tallahassee now. I will be investigating trying to get a Dish when I come back in the fall. My issue is the trees blocking the line of sight, but some trees have come down since last winter.

Is anybody else getting excessive breakup on WTLH? It use to breakup only on my 622. My TV tuner did fine now they both breakup often.

Since the storms went through early Sunday, I have been having breakups on several channels. WFSU has been the worst. However, that is my weakest station. WCTV and WTXL have had some digital outages tody.

I feared that the wind had affected my antenna pointing. Thus, I took my compass and tried to tweak my setup to no avail.

Does this mean ABCHD on Comcast?


Yes - ABC HD will return at last, just in time for re-runs.

Yes - ABC HD will return at last, just in time for re-runs.

LOL...so true...so true. :)

Yes - ABC HD will return at last, just in time for re-runs.
I'll believe it when I actually see it with my own eyes. :D

WTWC-DT Tallahassee NBC (http://www.wtwc40.com/) - 1080i :) (40.1 NBC HD | 40.2 NBC40)
WTXL-DT Tallahassee ABC (http://www.wtxl.tv/)* - 720p :confused: (27.1 ABC HD | 27.2 ABC27)
WCTV-DT Thomasville CBS (http://www.wctv.tv/) - 1080i :) (6.1 CBS HD | 6.2 MyNetworkTV)
WTLH-DT Bainbridge FOX (http://www.fox49.com/) - 720p :) (49.1 FOX HD | 49.2 The CW Plus)
WFSU-DT Tallahassee PBS (http://www.wfsu.org/) - 1080i :) (11.1 WFSU-HD | 11.2 4FSU | 11.3 Create | 11.4 FKN)
WTLF-DT Tallahassee CW (http://www.fox49.com) - 480i :( (24.1 The CW Plus)

Key: HD :) | Low Power STA/HD Coming Soon :confused: | SD DIGITAL ONLY :(
*Message posted about WTXL's HD move in May (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10095721&&#post10095721)

I know most people on here still can't get WTXL in HD but I it is my strongest station here where I live. One thing that is really nice about the current setup is that ABC HD only has one raw feed for east and west coast so if there is a high def show on at night, i can wait 3 hours later and watch the west coast feed on it. Oh well, I am going to be moving soon anyways.

WTWC-DT Tallahassee NBC (http://www.wtwc40.com/) - 1080i :) (40.1 NBC HD | 40.2 NBC40)
WTXL-DT Tallahassee ABC (http://www.wtxl.tv/)* - 720p :confused: (27.1 ABC HD | 27.2 ABC27)
WCTV-DT Thomasville CBS (http://www.wctv.tv/) - 1080i :) (6.1 CBS HD | 6.2 MyNetworkTV)
WTLH-DT Bainbridge FOX (http://www.fox49.com/) - 720p :) (49.1 FOX HD | 49.2 The CW Plus)
WFSU-DT Tallahassee PBS (http://www.wfsu.org/) - 1080i :) (11.1 WFSU-HD | 11.2 4FSU | 11.3 Create | 11.4 FKN)
WTLF-DT Tallahassee CW (http://www.fox49.com) - 480i :( (24.1 The CW Plus)

Key: HD :) | Low Power STA/HD Coming Soon :confused: | SD DIGITAL ONLY :(
*Message posted about WTXL's HD move in May (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10095721&&#post10095721)

I thought I was in the majority, but I guess I'm not. Can most people get WTWC-DT OTA?

I thought I was in the majority, but I guess I'm not. Can most people get WTWC-DT OTA?

OTA updates.

WTWC-DT OTA - Broadcast on VHF frequency (2), you have to have VHF antenna to catch it.

I got it here with CM 3016 w amplifier in the attic but not without problem. Occationally, they fail to get mapping properly so I got no signal on 40.1 (signal were sent to 2.3). I used D* HR10-250 to record show so I only found out after the fact after seeing empty recordings.

WTXL-DT OTA - Though, it appears that they are sending test signal only during the day, they do pass on real programming during prime time. I have set recordings of Grey's and they came thru ok so far.

WCTV-DT OTA - It's been troublesome lately and I have not been able to figure out yet. either their signal had been unstable or I got multipath. My signal had been inconsistently. Some recordings would be with no issues, some with significant drop out, pixelation.

WTXL-DT OTA - I have still seen sigificant drop outs during their programming. I do not record them though (all FOX recordings are via NY Feed, which were granted earlier). I hope they would not yank it from me until they get OTA squared away. :-) I got now 18 hrs of 24 waiting to do a marathon.

So what's the deal with FOX49, The CW, and WFXU? They were supposed to get a new owner and it appears they have.

From the FCC Database:
WTLH owned by NEW AGE MEDIA OF TALLAHASSEE LICENSE, LLC (WTLH-DT Signal Map (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=DT1155239.html))
WTLF-DT owned by MPS MEDIA OF TALLAHASSEE LICENSE , LLC (WTLF-DT Signal Map (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=DT629040.html))
WFXU owned by BUDD BROADCASTING CO., INC. (WFXU-DT CP Signal Map (http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-service-area?x=DT276213.html))

The analog WFXU signal only basically covers Live Oak and Valdosta, but the CP for WFXU-DT is going to allow them to serve Tallahassee and the region just like WTLH does digitally.

Is there a plan for WFXU or is Tallahassee going to get the CW via WTLH-DT 49.2, WTLF-DT 24.1, and WFXU-DT?

Is WFXU even connected to WTLH anymore?

There is no signal at all for WFXU analog channel 57. The station has been off the air for many months. The broadcast tower for WFXU is over here in Hamilton county. This station (repeater?) was always plagued with continuous audio and video problems, often going down for days at a time. No explanations were ever offered. It would be nice if this station became a viable working digital broadcaster, but based on past history I have serious doubts that it will. The topic of WFXU was briefly brought up many months ago, but WTLHFOX never fully responded on the subject.

I'm just wondering if they intend to do anything now that it seems WFXU is no longer with WTLH/WTLF.

I think WTLF-DT switches from 480i to 280i on CW network feeds - and I am not kidding. The local CW station broadcasts the worst network signal in the world. The old WB shows looked much better when it was on an analog station.

I now get WTLH over my 622 as as good as I do over my TV receiver. Most of the time it's good.

I guess the new software update for the 622 worked.

The people at FSN are great. Here is what they just emailed to me:

"can you tell us if FSN Florida's Marlins HD and Devil
Rays HD games are now coming through to you in Tallahassee on Comcast
Ch. 401?

Keep in mind, Comcast in Tallahassee is not electing to offer a package
of 55 additional Marlins games we're providing this year, so if any of
those are also being produced in HD, they wouldn't be available to you
since Comcast is not choosing to offer those games (like last night's)in
either standard def or high def. The next two Marlins HD games that
Comcast in Tallahassee is scheduled to offer are May 10 and May 11,
followed by May 14 and May 18. They are not choosing to offer the HD
Marlins games in your area on 5/4, 5/6, 5/8, 5/9 or 5/12. The next three
Rays HD games are tonight and May 2 and May 3."

No HD Marlins until May 10th...wow...that is over a month after the season started. Anyways, I'll have to try and remember to catch the Rays game tonight to see if Ch. 401 covers it.

Has DirecTV made one mumble yet about when Tally will have our locals in HD? It would be nice as I can't get NBC at all OTA

Has DirecTV made one mumble yet about when Tally will have our locals in HD? It would be nice as I can't get NBC at all OTA
DirecTV typically does not release this information until very close to it happening. But just to give you an idea, the DirecTV website has Ft. Myers "coming soon" and it is 64th DMA, while Tallahassee is 108th DMA. So don't hold your breath. :(

Unless you are not using a VHF antenna (i.e. you have to use a vhf antenna to pull it in), I find it surprising you do not get NBC.

Has DirecTV made one mumble yet about when Tally will have our locals in HD? It would be nice as I can't get NBC at all OTA

DirecTV was originally supposed to add quite a few local channel markets, but one of their satellite launches this year looks to be delayed due to an explosion that forced the company launching their the second satellite to delay all their launches for a while.

DirecTV has now downgraded their amount of local HD markets expected to be offered by the end of this year to 75. Tallahassee, FL is the 108th DMA, which is 33 markets less than Tallahassee, but that doesn't mean it won't happen as DirecTV could get the satellite up in time to get additional HD-LILs up before the year's out.

Also of note is that DirecTV is not going exactly in order of DMAs as DMA #42 is still not available yet, and DMA #110 and DMA #122 are.

~Alan

Alan,

I was aware of the explosion and the resulting delays in the launches, but I'm still not sure whether the new satellites were going to provide Tally with the hidef locals. I've read that some markets will never get them.

Do you happen to know whether I will need the bigger dish (5 LNB, I think) to get the hidef locals once (if) they are available. I'm assuming that I will, but have not taken the plunge to upgrade yet.

Has anyone here installed the newer dish?

Alan,

I was aware of the explosion and the resulting delays in the launches, but I'm still not sure whether the new satellites were going to provide Tally with the hidef locals. I've read that some markets will never get them.

I've heard varying tales regarding HD-LIL. There have been times when people working for DirecTV has stated HD-LIL for the whole country, but DirecTV's press releases have always stated 1500 local channels or something along the line of "majority of the country."

HOWEVER, I think it's safe to assume that any market with SD-LIL will receive HD-LIL. As someone who lives in a market without SD-LIL, my chances are less, though I feel good regarding my chances for next year.

Plus, WTLHFOXHD has stated that DirecTV was going to come and inspect the site to receive HD-LIL from Tallahassee... so I'm thinking it's going to happen... when is the question...

Do you happen to know whether I will need the bigger dish (5 LNB, I think) to get the hidef locals once (if) they are available. I'm assuming that I will, but have not taken the plunge to upgrade yet.

All HD-LILs (outside of the MPEG2 HD-LIL from NY and LA being used as HD-DNS... and that's going to change this year) require the new dish as well as national HD channels added later this year... so yes, once the Tallahassee, FL HD-LILs are added, the new dish (as well as a MPEG4 capable receiver) will be required to receive them.

~Alan

The people at FSN are great. Here is what they just emailed to me:

"can you tell us if FSN Florida's Marlins HD and Devil
Rays HD games are now coming through to you in Tallahassee on Comcast
Ch. 401?

Keep in mind, Comcast in Tallahassee is not electing to offer a package
of 55 additional Marlins games we're providing this year, so if any of
those are also being produced in HD, they wouldn't be available to you
since Comcast is not choosing to offer those games (like last night's)in
either standard def or high def. The next two Marlins HD games that
Comcast in Tallahassee is scheduled to offer are May 10 and May 11,
followed by May 14 and May 18. They are not choosing to offer the HD
Marlins games in your area on 5/4, 5/6, 5/8, 5/9 or 5/12. The next three
Rays HD games are tonight and May 2 and May 3."

No HD Marlins until May 10th...wow...that is over a month after the season started. Anyways, I'll have to try and remember to catch the Rays game tonight to see if Ch. 401 covers it.

Only thing I can recommend is getting Dish Network. They carry all 150 Marlins games on FSN Florida (Channel 423) and Sun Sports (Channel 422), plus the 74 HD games on FSN Florida HD (Channel 373).

Dish has FSN-HD statewide as long as you have an MPEG4 box, the 61.5 satellite, and can get the game in SD as part of your package.

Only thing I can recommend is getting Dish Network. They carry all 150 Marlins games on FSN Florida (Channel 423) and Sun Sports (Channel 422), plus the 74 HD games on FSN Florida HD (Channel 373).

Dish has FSN-HD statewide as long as you have an MPEG4 box, the 61.5 satellite, and can get the game in SD as part of your package.

Oh, I would have waived bye-bye to Comcast a loooong time ago if I had the choice. Unfortunately, I live in an apartment that faces north and my complex pre-pays for regular comcast cable (thereby being physically and financially restrained). Ah well. I guess when I move in a couple years I'll weigh my options there. Is having a dish that much better? (just wanted an opinion)

Is having a dish that much better? (just wanted an opinion)

Opinions will differ, but in my instance a resounding "yes". I got a satellite in August and could not be happier. Certainly not a double blind test but the picture quality for SD appears to be better for my Mits 65" CRT rear projector (I was an early adopter of HDTV). I don't know if that difference would be the same with a newer HDTV. Initially, I got more HD material, but Comcast seems to be catching up. And, now that the 622 has the new software I have had HD on all of the locals via OTA. I initially got it for my teenage soccer player who wanted Fox Soccer Channel (I believe you can get that now through Comcast as an add-on).
I kept basic cable ($9.95/month) for a back bedroom until I can run a split of the sat feed into the room. It seems to go out as much as, if not more than, the satellite. Even in bad storms sat out only a little...

I am in Summerbrooke and have the CM 3816 from Lowes in the attic. No problems picking up local CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox.

Has DirecTV made one mumble yet about when Tally will have our locals in HD? It would be nice as I can't get NBC at all OTA

First things first. BEFORE, DirecTV will even think about Tally HD locals all of the local stations must get there act togather. Last I was told was late 2007 or early 2008 if everything goes well. Talk to the locals. This was told to me after the rocket blew up.

I now get WTLH over my 622 as as good as I do over my TV receiver. Most of the time it's good.

I guess the new software update for the 622 worked.

I wish that were the case here also. It might be slightly better, but still unwatchable. I've tried attenuators and all of the tricks.

It might be helpful to determine what/where the problem is if those of us with 622s and (I believe) 211s could indicate their approximate location.

I'm in Killearn Lakes -- FOX/WTLH HD = Unwatchable.

FaxMan, my WTLH was unwatchable, as well, until I received the software upgrade. Now no issues (in Summberbrooke, so not too far from you)

FaxMan, my WTLH was unwatchable, as well, until I received the software upgrade. Now no issues (in Summberbrooke, so not too far from you)I may be wading in too late, but my DirecTV HR20-700 recorded Monday night's broadcast of 24 (FOX/WTLH) in HD OTA perfectly. There were no dropouts or pixelizations at all. Just a data point.

I have a 622 and get WTLH at night with no problem. During the day at times it seems like it won't lock in the signal.

I get the big five (FOX, ABC, CBS, PBS, and NBC) fine OTA thru the 622. I have issues at time with NBC and the voice delay, and FOX as descibed above.

I live off Pedrick Road (Buck Lake area).

FaxMan, my WTLH was unwatchable, as well, until I received the software upgrade. Now no issues (in Summberbrooke, so not too far from you)

I'd say the update helped a bit and there are (somewhat rare) occasions that I can watch in the evenings for a little while, however never reliable enough to depend on.

Example, Monday night I caught a half of 24. Last night Idol was big time breakups.

From FSN rep:

"We contacted Comcast in Tallahassee again but I do not have an answer for you yet. We are attempting to determine why they are not offering these games in HD as scheduled on their Ch. 401. As soon as we get an answer, I will let you know. So sorry. Next HD game is not until May 2 (Devil Rays)."

Yay Comcast. Just have to last a couple more years until I can get a dish. :cool:

I'd say the update helped a bit and there are (somewhat rare) occasions that I can watch in the evenings for a little while, however never reliable enough to depend on.

Example, Monday night I caught a half of 24. Last night Idol was big time breakups.
FaxMan, I see you are in Killearn Lakes. Perhaps you have issues with trees interfering with the OTA signal? You aren't too far from me...

FaxMan, I see you are in Killearn Lakes. Perhaps you have issues with trees interfering with the OTA signal? You aren't too far from me...

I might agree except I get a signal of 100 on NBC-WTWC and 100 on CBS-WCTV and mid 60s (but pretty stable) on ABC-WTXL. Given that all of the towers are in basically the same location it would seem odd.

What are your signal strengths for the above?

I've considered that perhaps it is too strong and overpowering the receiver, but attenuation didn't work or perhaps multipath, or perhaps a stray signal at a nearby frequent, or RF noise.

What are your signal strengths for the above?

I'll check tonight when I get home but I think they are all generally mid-80s to mid-90s.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but WTWC-DT2 is no longer "The Tube"... it's a SD simulcast of their analog channel... right?

~Alan

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but WTWC-DT2 is no longer "The Tube"... it's a SD simulcast of their analog channel... right?

~Alan
Right, and for that we Mediacom cable subscribers got rates increased because Sinclair stuck it to Mediacom who then stuck it to us. :mad:

Thank you....Ch. 401, FSN-HD on Comcast FINALLY works! It's about time.

What are your signal strengths for the above?

Faxman, forgot to check last night but this morning 6-1 at 100, the others at 78-82

I have a 622 and get WTLH at night with no problem. During the day at times it seems like it won't lock in the signal.

I get the big five (FOX, ABC, CBS, PBS, and NBC) fine OTA thru the 622. I have issues at time with NBC and the voice delay, and FOX as descibed above.

I live off Pedrick Road (Buck Lake area).

goat1976,

Were you able to get ABC without the 622? I also live in the bucklake area and cannot not get even a hint of signal from ABC. I am using an internal antenna, but I am able to get all other stations just fine (NBC, CBS, FOX, WFSU, etc).

What antenna are you using with the 622? Did Dish Network provide the antenna or install it for you (if using an external)?

Thanks for the input.

goat1976,

Were you able to get ABC without the 622? I also live in the bucklake area and cannot not get even a hint of signal from ABC. I am using an internal antenna, but I am able to get all other stations just fine (NBC, CBS, FOX, WFSU, etc).

What antenna are you using with the 622? Did Dish Network provide the antenna or install it for you (if using an external)?

Thanks for the input.

When I had an indoor antenna, I couldn't get ABC either. With or without the 622. It seems that signal is the weakest in our area. I installed an antenna myself in the attic and it worked fine after that. I got he DB4 HDTV Antenna for UHF and the V4 Low Band VHF Antenna for VHF (basically just NBC). I combined the signal with a UHF / VHF Antenna Combiner. Purchased everything from antennasdirect.com.

Hi All,

I recently moved to Tallahassee from central FL, where I had an OTA antenna in the attic with Sony tv (atsc tuner). Unfortunately, no matter how hard I tried I couldn't make the antenna work here (Williams Rd & WW Kelly Rd area). We went with Comcast, and plugged the coax straight into the TV and did a channel scan. Seeing as the tv has a tuner (I set it to Cable mode), and it's one less remote to use, I figured this wouldn't be an issue. Unfortunately, many of the SD channels are grainy, and the HD channels seem highly compressed. Is this because Comcast re-compresses, or because the stations are being stingy on bandwidth (or both?)?

And, like many here, my FOX HD channel is very often unwatchable. Total pixelation, stuttering and stopping. This is very disappointing, as the Fox SD channel one of the grainy ones.

Would I be better off using the Comcast tuner box? Would it make a difference? I thought I would check with the enthusiasts here before pulling the setup apart to check.

Thanks for your input!
Tim

Hi All,

I recently moved to Tallahassee from central FL, where I had an OTA antenna in the attic with Sony tv (atsc tuner). Unfortunately, no matter how hard I tried I couldn't make the antenna work here (Williams Rd & WW Kelly Rd area). We went with Comcast, and plugged the coax straight into the TV and did a channel scan. Seeing as the tv has a tuner (I set it to Cable mode), and it's one less remote to use, I figured this wouldn't be an issue. Unfortunately, many of the SD channels are grainy, and the HD channels seem highly compressed. Is this because Comcast re-compresses, or because the stations are being stingy on bandwidth (or both?)?

And, like many here, my FOX HD channel is very often unwatchable. Total pixelation, stuttering and stopping. This is very disappointing, as the Fox SD channel one of the grainy ones.

Would I be better off using the Comcast tuner box? Would it make a difference? I thought I would check with the enthusiasts here before pulling the setup apart to check.

Thanks for your input!
Tim

I would have Comcast come out and check the line signal strength - a weak signal will mess up your PQ big time. Have them check the "tap" on the street outside your house - if it is old it will mess up your signal. And check all your connections to be sure they are tight and cables are good condition. I also recommend using a splitter to send analog channels straight to your TV tuner (NTSC) or VCR/DVD recorder. Those channels (<100) usually look much better that way than through the STB which redigitizes them. I use a splitter to record analog channels using a Panasonic EH75 DMR HDD/DVD recorder and also a ReplayTV that still works great. Both record analog channels much better than the Comcast HD DVR. But the digital channels of course, and HD channels, will require the HD tuner or DVR.

BTW, there is no hope for the CW channel - the network feed from CW is of very low quality and the local FOX station that handles it does nothing to improve it or give us CW in HD. ABC locally (WTXL) should return to HD by the end of the month - they had to build a new station and are just now getting it close to up and running full power.

I’ve been using AVS for sometime but just came across this Tally thread. I’m in Killearn Lakes and had been using a combination of an attic mount antenna and roof mount to get OTA HD Channels for a year or so through my DirecTV HD receiver. I just upgraded to the new HR20 DVR and evidently the OTA tuner in these don’t compare to the older HR10 receivers.

With the old HR10 unit I receiver the following signal strength on these channels;
6-1 = 90-96%, 11-1 = 60-70%, 24-1 = 0%, 27-1 = 0%, 40-1 =85-90% and 49-1 = 75-80%.

Now with the new receiver, everything but 6-1 is down about 20% (CBS still comes in about 90%), making most stations unwatchable. I am shopping for a new antenna, but first want to lift my antenna up another 6 ft above the roof line (currently mounted on the chimney). That will be my p.m. project today.

Has anyone had any better lucky with the new DTV DVR or is this common. Also, can anyone in Killearn Lakes near Bull Headly get ABC? I have had no luck, and have tried with about 6 different antennas. Lastly, what is up with Fox 49? I always thought they set the signal way to dark. HD is better than SD, but it’s like watching through a dark green tinted filter. I’ve contacted the engineers at the station several times and treat those of us not on Comcast like second class citizens; at least I got a response though. ABC won’t even reply to emails.

Conley,

Have you checked here (http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=112) for anwers to your OTA issue w HR20 ?

I see some threads mentioning software update.

I am surprise to see a few in Tally had gone with HR20. I my opinion, there had not been any benefit at all going with HR20 in Tally.

Yeah, I've check... Ive got the latest firmware, etc. The only reason I went with it was my wife got sick of the Media Center PC we were using pulling an old time VCR (recording the wrong Channels). It was time to move to a DVR, and if course DTV has stopped offering the good ole reliable Tivo's.

They have an HR20 OTA issue reporting page (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=85879) here.

Good luck.

I am glad I did not jump when they offered me the HR20.

Thanks for that link. I posted my issues but am not optimistic DTV can solve the problem. Seems to be more of a Hardware problem than anything that can be fixed with a firmware update.

I crawled around on the roof yestarday P.m. and decided to upgrade my antenna and install a new tripod roof mount and a 6ft mast. ONce the brown truck shows up with the new parts; the change should get me well above the roof line, and hopefuly get me at least back to where I was. I am still not optimistic about being able to receive WTXL, or WFSU any better though.

I would have Comcast come out and check the line signal strength - a weak signal will mess up your PQ big time. Have them check the "tap" on the street outside your house - if it is old it will mess up your signal.


Well the house and road is new construction, and the tap looks new as well.


And check all your connections to be sure they are tight and cables are good condition. I also recommend using a splitter to send analog channels straight to your TV tuner (NTSC) or VCR/DVD recorder. Those channels (<100) usually look much better that way than through the STB which redigitizes them. I use a splitter to record analog channels using a Panasonic EH75 DMR HDD/DVD recorder and also a ReplayTV that still works great. Both record analog channels much better than the Comcast HD DVR. But the digital channels of course, and HD channels, will require the HD tuner or DVR.


I have basic cable plus HD (local channels only)... so the coax actually splits and one goes to the VCR/DVDR and one goes to the TV. Since it's just local channels, my TV reads the signal (I think it's called QAM?) and shows HD. The cable installer and the phone operator both said that it shouldn't work without the STB, but it does... on everything except FOX. Fox lately is just a blocky mess. It didn't used to be like this. Then it was sometimes, now it's all the time. I guess my questionis - would the STB do anything to help with the Fox blockiness? I'd rather not pull my setup apart if I didn't have to.

I have basic cable plus HD (local channels only)... so the coax actually splits and one goes to the VCR/DVDR and one goes to the TV. Since it's just local channels, my TV reads the signal (I think it's called QAM?) and shows HD. The cable installer and the phone operator both said that it shouldn't work without the STB, but it does... on everything except FOX. Fox lately is just a blocky mess. It didn't used to be like this. Then it was sometimes, now it's all the time. I guess my questionis - would the STB do anything to help with the Fox blockiness? I'd rather not pull my setup apart if I didn't have to.


Quite often, for me at least, the HD local channels will break up and be almost unwatchable using the QAM tuner, but at the same time they will be fine using the STB. The line running into my house was recently replaced and the signal tested fine. Asking Comcast tech support why the signal is fine over the STB but not using the QAM tuner was a waste of time.

No sound on Grey's Anatomy.

Has anyone else been having trouble getting WTWC to pick up in Windows Media Center? I have tried bother XP's Media Center and Vista's Media Center with my A180 ATSC tuner and even though I have a pretty strong signal for WTWC it completely refuses to pick up anything.

I was able to get it to pick up if I used the crappy software that came with my tuner card but not in Media Center. Every other local channel picks up fine in Media Center.

Has anyone noticed that both of WTXL's digital channels are blank? The mapping seems to be off as well, with my TV picking up both 27.1 and 22.1. Could this mean they are preparing to switch over to Full HD?

Sean

Yeah, I'm not picking up anything now with WTXL. What's the deal? I haven't changed anything on my end and it was working before. I sure hope it'll be working for Lost on Wed.

Yeah, I'm not picking up anything now with WTXL. What's the deal? I haven't changed anything on my end and it was working before. I sure hope it'll be working for Lost on Wed.
I'm not able to get WTXL-DT (yet?) but I know that the analog station has been off the air the past few days while viewing it on Mediacom. The only thing I've seen out of WTXL has been an occasional test pattern.

Same here, nothing on WTXL with OTA thru mu 622. Anyone know what happened?

Well the house and road is new construction, and the tap looks new as well.



I have basic cable plus HD (local channels only)... so the coax actually splits and one goes to the VCR/DVDR and one goes to the TV. Since it's just local channels, my TV reads the signal (I think it's called QAM?) and shows HD. The cable installer and the phone operator both said that it shouldn't work without the STB, but it does... on everything except FOX. Fox lately is just a blocky mess. It didn't used to be like this. Then it was sometimes, now it's all the time. I guess my questionis - would the STB do anything to help with the Fox blockiness? I'd rather not pull my setup apart if I didn't have to.

I am not an expert but I understand that a QAM (cable digital) tuner will give you any digital cable channel that is not scrambled, like premium channels or pay per view. Some cable companies scramble their local HD and some don't - good to hear Comcast Tally does not, so you should get all the non-scrambled digital SD and HD channels through the QAM tuner. A blocky picture means a weak signal, which is why I made my earlier suggestions. My brother installed a new plasma TV in his bedroom and many of the Comcast digital channels were like that, even with his STB. He was using an old splitter and I advised him to replace it or bypass it and that cleared it all up. If just one channel is blocking it is probably just a bad signal from FOX. A loose connection can cause RF interference and that might be a problem too, so replacing and tightening even new cables might be worth a shot. If all else fails have Comcast come out and do technical measrements - they should be able to make it right. They will try to take the easy way out so you have to stay on them and even demand an adjust on your bill for anything less than 100% full service you are paying for.

BTW, I just spoke with Mike Plummer at WTXL and he said they are getting ready to switch over completely to their new local master control center (currently farmed out to Little Rock) and there will be a period that sees some problems off and on, so some of that is what you guys have seen recently. The full switch-over is set for May 29, but he said it may be delayed until June 1. Once the switch is done and the kinks worked out we should see full power HD OTA as well as with Comcast. He is going to get back to me on whether audio will be 5.1 or 2.0.

BTW, I just spoke with Mike Plummer at WTXL and he said they are getting ready to switch over completely to their new local master control center (currently farmed out to Little Rock) and there will be a period that sees some problems off and on, so some of that is what you guys have seen recently. The full switch-over is set for May 29, but he said it may be delayed until June 1. Once the switch is done and the kinks worked out we should see full power HD OTA as well as with Comcast. He is going to get back to me on whether audio will be 5.1 or 2.0.



So they're not broadcasting anything OTA right now? It's not on/off, it's been completly off since sometime Saturday.

So they're not broadcasting anything OTA right now? It's not on/off, it's been completly off since sometime Saturday.

I'm getting their SD broadcast on 22.2. 22.1 seems to be off, though for a moment yesterday, the SD signal was jumping back and forth between 22.1 and 22.2.

So can we expect not to see Lost in HD this week? :(

I am not an expert but I understand that a QAM (cable digital) tuner will give you any digital cable channel that is not scrambled, like premium channels or pay per view. Some cable companies scramble their local HD and some don't - good to hear Comcast Tally does not, so you should get all the non-scrambled digital SD and HD channels through the QAM tuner. A blocky picture means a weak signal, which is why I made my earlier suggestions. My brother installed a new plasma TV in his bedroom and many of the Comcast digital channels were like that, even with his STB. He was using an old splitter and I advised him to replace it or bypass it and that cleared it all up. If just one channel is blocking it is probably just a bad signal from FOX. A loose connection can cause RF interference and that might be a problem too, so replacing and tightening even new cables might be worth a shot. If all else fails have Comcast come out and do technical measrements - they should be able to make it right. They will try to take the easy way out so you have to stay on them and even demand an adjust on your bill for anything less than 100% full service you are paying for.

When I first signed up with Comcast 2 years ago, I had the same problem. The HD channels would be blocky using the STB but the rest of the digital channels would be fine. I had to call Comcast every day (really...every single day) for 3 weeks. After 5 service calls, they finally ran a new line from the street box to my home and the problem went away. I do still have some blocking on all HD channels when using the QAM tuner every once in a while but not with the STB. This doesn't really make sense to me, but I use the QAM tuner so infrequently, it is not worth the raised blood pressure from working with Comcast to fix.

Last night, WTXL OTA had the test signal/beep. Before it was no signal found. Maybe progress is being made in fixing the issue? I hope it gets fixed for Lost tonight. :mad:

When I first signed up with Comcast 2 years ago, I had the same problem. The HD channels would be blocky using the STB but the rest of the digital channels would be fine. I had to call Comcast every day (really...every single day) for 3 weeks. After 5 service calls, they finally ran a new line from the street box to my home and the problem went away. I do still have some blocking on all HD channels when using the QAM tuner every once in a while but not with the STB. This doesn't really make sense to me, but I use the QAM tuner so infrequently, it is not worth the raised blood pressure from working with Comcast to fix.


It is possible the original "new" line has become loose somewhere, or another piece of equipment is in need of repair/replacement. Keep after them. Find out who you are line supervisor is and ask for his cell phone number. Then bug him to death.

So can we expect not to see Lost in HD this week? :(


I wish, but highly unlikely.

For you OTA guys Comcast has been carrying the SD signal on digital channel 231 pretty consistently but it does go black occasionally. But it also breaks up from time to time. I mentioned this to Mike Plummer and he suspect it is a weak signal. I tried to get hold of their engineer, John Clark but he has not been available. Comcast may be picking up the signal with a bigger antenna than you guys.

BTW, you can email Mike Plummer at mplummer@wtxl.tv

I don't think he will mind, he is a very nice guy.

Is there anyone in Tallahassee using Windows Media Center to tune OTA HD? If so, can you pick up NBC? I think there is a problem with WTWC that is preventing it from being tuned in Media Center. I have e-mailed WTWC's engineering department but no one has responded. If other people in Tally can't get WTWC with Media Center please speak up so that we might get this fixed.

Is there anyone in Tallahassee using Windows Media Center to tune OTA HD? If so, can you pick up NBC? I think there is a problem with WTWC that is preventing it from being tuned in Media Center. I have e-mailed WTWC's engineering department but no one has responded. If other people in Tally can't get WTWC with Media Center please speak up so that we might get this fixed.

MCE...
I use it but not for OTA.

Which tuner you are using ? Which antenna ? You know that NBC is broadcasting via VHF, don't you ?

I am not an expert but I understand that a QAM (cable digital) tuner will give you any digital cable channel that is not scrambled, like premium channels or pay per view. Some cable companies scramble their local HD and some don't - good to hear Comcast Tally does not, so you should get all the non-scrambled digital SD and HD channels through the QAM tuner. A blocky picture means a weak signal, which is why I made my earlier suggestions. My brother installed a new plasma TV in his bedroom and many of the Comcast digital channels were like that, even with his STB. He was using an old splitter and I advised him to replace it or bypass it and that cleared it all up. If just one channel is blocking it is probably just a bad signal from FOX. A loose connection can cause RF interference and that might be a problem too, so replacing and tightening even new cables might be worth a shot. If all else fails have Comcast come out and do technical measrements - they should be able to make it right. They will try to take the easy way out so you have to stay on them and even demand an adjust on your bill for anything less than 100% full service you are paying for.

Thanks, everyone for the advice! :) I finally gave in and dusted off the STB, running through it instead of direct to the TV. Fox cleared up, as expected. Now I have an extra remote to juggle, and my TV doesn't auto-sense the aspect ratio, but I can easily switch it with the TV remote. At least I get to watch the season finales of 24 and House in HD! :)

Also, for MCE, check this forum (http://thegreenbutton.com/forums/) out for questions and answers.

Good luck.

Comcast has irritated me past the point of no return...(On-demand errors, cancelling a service call wasting half a day for me.)

Maybe someone on the Northeast side of tallahassee can advise me. Would you change to Direct Tv or Dish Network?

My needs

- As much HD programming as possible
- All pay channels in HD
- Local channels in HD (how is over the air for Killearn Acres area?)
- 2 DVR's
- A form of on-demand?

I plan to keep Comcast for HSI unless there is a better alternative.

Another option is keeping Comcast for only the local HD channels?

Any opinion or direction to more information would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

Comcast has lost me as well. I have DSL from EMBARQ and plan to add Dish Network service (you get a $5/month discount from EMBARQ if you call them for Dish service) when I return in the Fall.

Dish has a ton of HD channels, you can get locals OTA, and you can use 1 DVR on 2 TV's for 2 seperate programs.

DISH/EMBARQ HD offer: http://www.embarq.com/Residential/SpecialOffers/dID/SPO_20070425_2T-DISHsave200?tid=i_QC1819_2TDish_pb_resSpecialOffer_pos4
DISH HD DVR (2 TV's. 2 seperate programs, 1 box): http://www.dishnetwork.com/content/our_products/dish_hd/receivers/vip622dvr/index.shtml
DISH HD Programming: http://www.dishnetwork.com/content/our_products/dish_hd/programming/index.shtml

BTW, Dish has FSN Florida HD and Sun Sports HD along with all 150 Marlins games and 75 Rays games from FSN Florida.

I think at present The Dish Network has the most HD channels.

MCE...
I use it but not for OTA.

Which tuner you are using ? Which antenna ? You know that NBC is broadcasting via VHF, don't you ?
I have both an Avermedia A180 MCE ATSC tuner and a Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-1600 and neither will tune WTWC in Media Center. I can get WTWC to tune in the WinTV software though. So there is something wrong with the data stream that Media Center does not like.

Thanks for the link I'll check it out.

Stay away from Dish if you want local HD channels. They "Will only offer them in the top 50 markets." DirecTV will add them mid to late 08. " When all the stations get there act togather." Also there may be a delay with a new satellite (for lil). One is going up June 20 and then DirecTV will launch a ton of new HD channels in September around labor day.

I got fed up with Comcast and switched to DISH over the summer. I compared the HD channels offered and costs vs Direct TV at the time and went with DISH. I have been happy with the switch. I get locals in HD OTA (happy now that I got the upgrade to the 622 which fixed the FOX HD issue; no local ABC OTA in HD right now, but it appears that has something to do with the switch). That DISH wasn't going to get local HD soon doesn't bother me since I get it OTA.

I'm in Summerbrooke and put a channelmaster antenna from Lowes in the attack; my reception is fine for CBS, ABC, NBC, FOX (I personally didn't care about CW or PBS)

I kept the comcast basic ($9.95) and can get locals in HD (except ABC) with the built in tuner if necessary (I really kept it so I could get basic cable in a back room without running a split of the satellite cable), and I also have Comcast HSI.

I have both an Avermedia A180 MCE ATSC tuner and a Hauppauge WinTV-HVR-1600 and neither will tune WTWC in Media Center. I can get WTWC to tune in the WinTV software though. So there is something wrong with the data stream that Media Center does not like.

Thanks for the link I'll check it out.

Shawn,
You did not mention which antenna you are using ?

Anyone know when we will get ABC in HD????? This happened last year during the NBA finals, then for a short time we had it again. Now we are back to standard def on the ABC network.

Anyone know when we will get ABC in HD????? This happened last year during the NBA finals, then for a short time we had it again. Now we are back to standard def on the ABC network.

Check post 2463.

Sean

Anyone know when we will get ABC in HD????? This happened last year during the NBA finals, then for a short time we had it again. Now we are back to standard def on the ABC network.


Someone responded a couple posts ago about about switching to local control. It's gone from a constant test signal to nothing now. My question/problem with this is why do this now? All ABC programs are going to the season finals soon, and for some reason they decide now is a good time to do this. Why not just wait a week or two and change while in re-runs? Seems like a bad idea timing wise that could have been solved by just waiting.

Someone responded a couple posts ago about about switching to local control. It's gone from a constant test signal to nothing now. My question/problem with this is why do this now? All ABC programs are going to the season finals soon, and for some reason they decide now is a good time to do this. Why not just wait a week or two and change while in re-runs? Seems like a bad idea timing wise that could have been solved by just waiting.

This was not a timing issue - they are just doing it asap, and this was as fast as they could get it done. FYI in February of 06 they lost their old studio and antenna lease and had to start from scratch building a new studio and transmission facility. They have been renting space at WFSU and just got into the new studio about a month ago. I think the digital transmitter is the hold up now, and they need to switch master control back to Tallahassee from Little Rock. They had hoped to be back to full HD by now but things have not gone as planned. There is a small chance they may get it done this week - I certainly would love to see the 2 hr final of Lost in HD, but I will be surprised if that happens.

Stay away from Dish if you want local HD channels. They "Will only offer them in the top 50 markets." DirecTV will add them mid to late 08. " When all the stations get there act togather." Also there may be a delay with a new satellite (for lil). One is going up June 20 and then DirecTV will launch a ton of new HD channels in September around labor day.

Personally, I prefer DirecTV (I don't live in the Tallahassee DMA, but I can receive some of the Tallahassee channels), but I feel that I must bring up the fact that Dish has now changed their plans to go beyond the top 50 DMAs, and will be going to at least 100-110. That's no promise that Tallahassee will be one of them, and DirecTV should add HD-LIL sooner, but there is the possibility of Dish getting HD-LIL in the next year (as well as a lot more national HD channels).

That being said, DirecTV has stated that they have no intention of charging more than the current $10.99 a month charge for HD access (all non-premium HD channels) when they add all these new HD channels whereas Dish already charges more a month.

~Alan

This was not a timing issue - they are just doing it asap, and this was as fast as they could get it done. FYI in February of 06 they lost their old studio and antenna lease and had to start from scratch building a new studio and transmission facility. They have been renting space at WFSU and just got into the new studio about a month ago. I think the digital transmitter is the hold up now, and they need to switch master control back to Tallahassee from Little Rock. They had hoped to be back to full HD by now but things have not gone as planned. There is a small chance they may get it done this week - I certainly would love to see the 2 hr final of Lost in HD, but I will be surprised if that happens.


I did not know the history behind the move. Like you, my main point was I want the Lost final in HD too!

BTW, does anyone have an E-Mail address for an engineer (or somebody at WTXL-DT) as my HR10-250 lists both WTXL-DT and WTXL-DT2 on 27-1 instead of 27-1 and 27-2. Zap2it.com lists the same, as well as I'm assuming the HR20 (DirecTV's HD-DVR) and the TiVo Series 3 (which I'm fixing to get soon for OTA recording).

It's not that it's a big deal, but I'm kind of tired of seeing the mistake in my guide as it just bugs me. They clearly state that they are different channels (WTXL-DT/WTXL-DT2), but if you try to tune into WTXL-DT2, it takes you to WTXL-DT.

If I knew their E-Mail, I'll try to contact them and TRY to get them to call Tribune and get it corrected (if they can figure out what I'm talking about).

~Alan

BTW, does anyone have an E-Mail address for an engineer (or somebody at WTXL-DT) as my HR10-250 lists both WTXL-DT and WTXL-DT2 on 27-1 instead of 27-1 and 27-2. Zap2it.com lists the same, as well as I'm assuming the HR20 (DirecTV's HD-DVR) and the TiVo Series 3 (which I'm fixing to get soon for OTA recording).

It's not that it's a big deal, but I'm kind of tired of seeing the mistake in my guide as it just bugs me. They clearly state that they are different channels (WTXL-DT/WTXL-DT2), but if you try to tune into WTXL-DT2, it takes you to WTXL-DT.

If I knew their E-Mail, I'll try to contact them and TRY to get them to call Tribune and get it corrected (if they can figure out what I'm talking about).

~Alan

I have Mike Plummer's email address (mplummer@wtxl.tv) but he has not responded to mine yet. You can usually get him on the phone at 894-6397. John Clark is their head engineer but getting through to him is like getting through to Dick Cheney.

Shawn,
You did not mention which antenna you are using ?
It's a Terk HDTVa antenna that I have mounted in the attic. Like I said signal strength is fine.

I installed TSReader and pulled the transport stream data from WTWC. Maybe someone here can figure out what's wrong.

WTWC Transport Stream (http://www.mazdafanclub.com/wtwc.htm)

Dish Network Questions

1. You Pay $5.00 a month to get Locals in SD?
2. To get Locals in HD, you have to buy an OTA Antenna (I am 17 miles or less from all stations..). Would I need an indoor, Attic, or Outdoor to receive the big 4 (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX)
3. When you work with the installer, do you have the opportunity to have him arrange/buy and install the OTA antenna?

It's a Terk HDTVa antenna that I have mounted in the attic. Like I said signal strength is fine.

I installed TSReader and pulled the transport stream data from WTWC. Maybe someone here can figure out what's wrong.

WTWC Transport Stream (http://www.mazdafanclub.com/wtwc.htm)

I had tried that one myself and it did not pull in VHF for me. Maybe others might be able to speak better about that antenna.

If possible, try swapping the antenna with another one and see. I used CM 3016 in the attic here and that pulls in WTWC for me.

The item of note is 15 continuity errors. This could be in their encoding or in some interferrence getting to you. Either way, each continuity error will result in a pause, blocking and/or audio drop.
Does moving the antenna help?

Dish Network Questions

1. You Pay $5.00 a month to get Locals in SD?
2. To get Locals in HD, you have to buy an OTA Antenna (I am 17 miles or less from all stations..). Would I need an indoor, Attic, or Outdoor to receive the big 4 (ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX)
3. When you work with the installer, do you have the opportunity to have him arrange/buy and install the OTA antenna?

I had my antenna installed by my dish installer. I live 22 miles away and he put it on my Dish mast and I get a good signal from all the networks. It cost me about $60 dollars more.

Anybody in the Valdosta area with a Medicom Digital TV subscription have problems last night? I had total digital block out on all digital channels. Seems every weekend for the past three or four weeks the usual lousy service goes from bad to worse to total wipe out. Calling service is a joke.

Anybody in the Valdosta area with a Medicom Digital TV subscription have problems last night? I had total digital block out on all digital channels. Seems every weekend for the past three or four weeks the usual lousy service goes from bad to worse to total wipe out. Calling service is a joke.

My HD channels haven't worked since yesterday afternoon. 5 calls to customer service (who are very pleasant by the way), a trip from a tech (who was also pleasant), and a trip out to the Medicom office since...and still no luck.

They 'pinged' a signal to my receiver twice yesterday, and once today. I even exchanged the receiver for a new one. Still no HD service. The tech who came out on Thursday admitted that Mediacom is aware of the issue, and only has ONE PERSON worked to fix it. They tried to set up ANOTHER appt. to have a tech come out, but said that the earliest day would be June 9th? June...9th!?? By that time, I'll be switched to DirectTV.

Before this weekend's issue, I had been having issues with jumbled HD channels for the past two months. This is by far the worst service experience I've had with any company...for anything (not just cable).

*Throws up a prayer for Comcast to come to Valdosta!

Some people in this forum tend to be "in the know" about such things, so I'll throw a question out there...

Does anybody know how progress is going on WALB's new Doerun tower? I have heard that they will be going to full digital OTA once it is completed. Could this possibly mean NBC in HD for those of us in Tallahassee who can't get WTWC OTA? Just curious.

Happy Memorial Day.

Sean

The WALB and WFXL tower is being put up in Doerun which about halfway between Moultrie and Albany. It should be going full power and in HD sometime in June. You know how things go but I would say it should be live at least in July. Being where the tower is, if you live on the north side of Tally you should be able to receive it.

In the last 2 days, I have been receiving the HD signals from WTXL. On most occasions, the picture has looked extremely good. The sound, however, has been occasionally harsh.

In the past, WTXL's signal has intermittently paused when showing some HD content. It was worse with the rebroadcast of HD program later at night. On the other hand, Good Morning America did not show such pauses. I have not seen such pausing since the move to a local signal.

I am very hopeful that I will be able to receive the 2 Albany stations. In addition, I am really looking forward to Georgia Public Broadcasting's digital signal and expanded programing.

I have Mike Plummer's email address (mplummer@wtxl.tv) but he has not responded to mine yet. You can usually get him on the phone at 894-6397. John Clark is their head engineer but getting through to him is like getting through to Dick Cheney.

Thanks! I E-Mailed Mike Plummer last week, but still no reply. Hopefully, he will respond/fix the problem soon...

~Alan