WPBT has begun simulcasting on channels 2-01 and 2-02 (this is on a Dish 6000). Whenever they transmit HD, it is broadcast on 2-01; and, they cease broadcasting on 2-02. Whenever they're NOT transmitting HD I get their standard Channel 2 programming on 2-01.

I spoke with Paul Russell of WYVJ today.

He was very busy when I called so I didn't press him for alot of information. All he told me was that they are "attempting" to initiate a temporary solution which would get them on the air more quickly.

Give him a call. He needs to hear from us.

Originally posted by hardrock
I spoke with Paul Russell of WYVJ today.
^^^^
That's WTVJ!

Originally posted by aviators99

^^^^
That's WTVJ!

NBC:D :D :D

TitanTV now shows WTVJ as "Awaiting FCC Permit"

I'm picking up a sporadic signal from WPBF-DT Channel 16 (up to 59% - but no picture or sound). Can anyone closer to their antenna confirm this?

hardrock,

I am in west Coral Springs and on my Dish 6000 the signal on 16 is not strong enough to lock, it gets close though.

I live in weston and I installed a Sensar GS 2000 the readings I am getting on my DTC 100 are as follows:

8-1 65%
9-1 55%
18-1 70%
19-1 68%
22-1 76%
28-1 65%

My question is there any way that I can improve the strenght specially for ABC channel 9-1.

The antenna is installed outdoors in the back of my house.

Is there anybody else living in Weston that maybe is using a different antenna and getting better results.

It seems that with ABC channel 9-1 the picture is find but the is low compare to other stations.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Originally posted by drguava
I live in weston and I installed a Sensar GS 2000 the readings I am getting on my DTC 100 are as follows:

8-1 65%
9-1 55%
18-1 70%
19-1 68%
22-1 76%
28-1 65%

My question is there any way that I can improve the strenght specially for ABC channel 9-1.

The antenna is installed outdoors in the back of my house.

Is there anybody else living in Weston that maybe is using a different antenna and getting better results.

It seems that with ABC channel 9-1 the picture is find but the is low compare to other stations.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks

I live in western Pembroke Pines and also get lower readings from WPLG than the others...like for you, the picture is fine. I've learned to ignore the numbers and enjoy the shows. Since you get 28 pretty well, maybe you'll get a better number for 16.

AVIATORS99 Thanks for your reply I am just going to enjoy my TV and forget about the signal strength.

I too use a GS 2000 and I am pretty happy with it.
I am waiting for Palm Beach to come up on the air, so I can rotate and measure all the channels.
Mine is in the attic, and it is hot and difficult getting up there.
But, I will play once more stations come up.

What kind of signal strength are you getting from your attic. Also are you in a two story or single story house.

Originally posted by drguava
AVIATORS99 Thanks for your reply I am just going to enjoy my TV and forget about the signal strength.

I'm in the process of setting up a theater for my parents in Weston Hills CC...are you near there? I was thinking about what sort of antenna they will need.

That is were I live in Hunters Point II

Originally posted by drguava
That is were I live in Hunters Point II

You going to Pasta Night tonight? I'll be the one with the crazy kids running around!

No no tonite but we are usually there once a month for pasta night. It is amazing all the pasta you can eat however after one plate I am pretty much full. My son loves it.

Enjoy

This is great from HDTV to Pasta ... Yum, yum ..
:D :D :D :D

Originally posted by falcon
on my Dish 6000 the signal on 16 is not strong enough to lock, it gets close though.

falcon,

There is a little trick you can do with your Dish 6000 receiver which will allow you to put the channel into your guide so that you can surf to it and/or enter it into your remote (016). You can't lock it in but it's alot easier to check the signal status.

On your add digital screen, put in an active channel like 22. After the cursor moves to save, wait about 2 to 3 seconds, move the cursor back to channel entry and put in channel 16.

The signal bar will turn green and then back to red. Even though the signal bar is red, it will allow you to save the channel to your guide.

It may take 5 or 6 tries to get it to work. Try a different active channel if you have problems.

It looks like WPBF ramped up to full power this evening. I'm now receiving their analog broadcast at about 75% on my Dish 6000.

Thanks for the tip hardrock. I will give it a shot. Any word on WTVJ yet? I copied the info from titantv.com below. It says awaiting FCC permit. I guess that is better than FCC extension.


Network CH Station Live Date
ABC 16 WPBF-DT FCC Extension
CBS 13 WPEC-DT Jun 15 2002
CTN 49 WFGC-DT FCC Extension
HSN 48 WFUN-DT
IND 59 WHDT-DT May 1 2002
NBC 30 WTVJ-DT Awaiting FCC Permit
NBC 55 WPTV-DT Nov 1 2002
PAX 36 WPXP-DT FCC Extension
PAX 26 WPXM-DT Nov 1 2002
PBS 20 WLRN-DT May 1 2003
PBS 27 WXEL-DT May 1 2003
TBN 46 WHFT-DT Nov 1 2002
TBN 38 WTCE-DT May 1 2003
TEL 52 WSCV-DT FCC Extension
UNI 24 WLTV-DT FCC Extension
UPN 32 WBFS-DT FCC Extension
UPN 50 WTVX-DT FCC Extension

Originally posted by hardrock 4/23/02
I spoke with Paul Russell of WTVJ today.

He was very busy when I called so I didn't press him for alot of information. All he told me was that they are "attempting" to initiate a temporary solution which would get them on the air more quickly.

Give him a call. He needs to hear from us.

Phone: (954) 622-6000

Paul Russell - Director of Operations & Engineering

It's been quiet in here. Any new info on WTVJ? I sent them an email, but never got a response. I was hoping they would be up for the NBA finals, because I just have a feeling NBC may broadcast in HD. Or maybe just wishful thinking.

The last I heard was WTVJ was trying to be up for July 1st.
Is this the temporary solution he was talking about, or is Paul Russell trying to get a temporary solution up before then ?

Where did the July 1 date estimate come from?

I think it was from WTVJ.
I read it in one of the threads.

The FCC's list of DTV stations currently operating under tempoary authority now includes the elusive WHDT, Stuart, FL and WAMI-DT, Hollywood, FL:

http://www.fcc.gov/mb/video/files/dtvstas.html

Has anyone seen WAMI-DT on channel 47 yet?

David,

I found that same link yesterday and attempted to tune in WAMI's signal several times during the afternoon and at primetime. No cigar.

For anyone that's interested, WAMI recently converted to a dedicated Spanish language channel.

So, now that we know that WB will have HD programming, who wants to call WBZL and ask if they're ready to pass it? Hardrock?

For the past few weeks my WBZL ch 39-1 is 0 to 9, or in the mud.
When I look at ch 19 strength, it bonces once in a while.

I used to get it fine for a while.
Have they changed something???
or is it me all of a sudden?

I haven't seen them at all for quite a while.

David, I dont know if you can help but i was reading the Fox NY threads about the problem with the remapping of the Fox NY channel. It seems the problem has vanished and that perhaps it was something their local Fox channel changed in their PSIP info. Any chance you can look into this with WFLX and find something out? I know im nmot alone with this problem with WFKL remapping on Hughes IRDs.. ANY help would be GREATLY appreciated... Thanx

ps. Im only asking you cuz it appears you surely have some pull :)

All I know is that different brands of ATSC receivers can sometimes respond differently to the PSIP data that's being sent by a DTV station. This can be due to one of a number of reasons:

1. The receiver was bulit prior to the completion of ATSC PSIP protocols and is therefore not completely PSIP compliant

2. The receiver was built after the rules were finalized but is still non-compliant

3. The station is sending non-compliant data which may work with some receivers but not others

I would ask Hughes for their input on this issue if you continue to have problems. The CBS network and many of the CBS stations that are owned and operated by CBS's parent company, Viacom, have resorted to purchasing one of every single consumer ATSC tuner on the market and then tweaking their PSIP data to make their signals work with all the tuners. (I am not making this up!)

Anecdotally, I have an RCA DTC100 and a Zenith ATSC tuner. When WFLX-DT went on the air the DTC100 immediately remapped the station correctly from 28-1 to 29-1. However, the Zenith remapped it to 28-2 and continued to do so for a week until I rescanned the channels and it suddenly remapped it correctly. The Zenith tuner (which was built prior to the ATSC PSIP protocols being finalized) also sometimes does strange things with WSVN-DT...failing to remap and failing to pass audio for weeks at a time. It also sometimes refuses to lock onto a perfectly good signal when tuning via the channel up/down button, and locks-up requiring a hard reboot. But it never does this if you tune by entering channel numbers on the keypad.

After following the NY threads about this it appears to be a Channel issue as opposed to something that Hughes (Toshiba in my case) can do about it.. I just dont know what to tell WFLX to change.. Im hoping someone from the NY market whos Hughes/Mitsu/Toshiba box just started to work finds out from their channel what was done.. We'll see

Sometimes affiliates and O&Os get posted on technical matters of this nature by the network engineers or by engineers at other stations. Hopefully the boys in New York will send something to Butch at WFLX on this.

Not to change the subject, but I have a Mits (Hughes) box.
Last night I went to all channels and I got WBZL chan 39-1.
This was WB.
Then I went to Turbo Tune, and 39-1 was listed and when selected it told me that channel was unavailable (??????)
So I went into setup and reinserted 39-1 and WBZL came in.

This is confirming what David McRoy stated.
Each unit may handle psip differently.

I guess if a channel goes off the air, and then comes back, something flakey happens.
I believe they may have channed the psip and God knows what each STB does.

And to further complicate matters, a change in PSIP data on one station can affect your ability to tune other stations!

I'm afraid that digital television was designed with a lot of "feature creap" built into it. Being able to easily and reliably tune in a station and get a picture and sound is infinitely more important than program information, yet corrupted PSIP can cripple your receiver. ATSC DTV is not "grandma-proof!":rolleyes:

HT--
It is not all Hughes made boxes. My HD-5 has WFLX remapped and in the guide as 29-1. Has been from the start of their DT transmission.

I believe that I originally accessed it by keying in 28-1 and/or 29-1. It was not via scan.

My box too shows 29-1 and the display says its WFLXDT.. unfortunately its the analog picture its showing that is the prob.. Im aware its not ALL of the Hughes type boxes which is odd in itself.. Some have the prob, some dont.

My analog picture on CH 29 is a bit snowy and shaky. Probably from the distance. The 29-1 picture is quite sharp and steady. Does that necessarily mean that I am receiving DT? (See edit below)

I had to TiVo Ally last night in favor of the hockey game, but did have her wide screen a week or two ago.

EDIT: The 29-1 picture is comparable to those of WFOR-DT and WPLG-DT when they are in non-HD mode.

You would surely know the difference. You are receiving the Dig channel and not having the remapping prob.. lucky you. ;)

Originally posted by HTnut
You would surely know the difference. You are receiving the Dig channel and not having the remapping prob.. lucky you. ;)

Maybe lucky, except that with Ally gone, there is nothing on FOX that I watch except some of their baseball and football. I might try to integrate it with Sunday Ticket next season.

Earlier this evening WPBF was broadcasting on channels 16-01, 16-02, 16-03 and 16-04 on my Dish 6000. I still have trouble receiving their signal so I don't know if they were broadcasting any pictures or sound.

Originally posted by drguava
I live in weston and I installed a Sensar GS 2000 the readings I am getting on my DTC 100 are as follows:

8-1 65%
9-1 55%
18-1 70%
19-1 68%
22-1 76%
28-1 65%

My question is there any way that I can improve the strenght specially for ABC channel 9-1.

The antenna is installed outdoors in the back of my house.

Is there anybody else living in Weston that maybe is using a different antenna and getting better results.

It seems that with ABC channel 9-1 the picture is find but the is low compare to other stations.

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Thanks

I am located at Federal Hwy and E26th St in Ft. Lauderdale and am getting higher signal readings with the exception of one station:

8-1 65% 94
9-1 55% 76
18-1 70% 76
19-1 68% 64
22-1 76% 50
28-1 65% 87

I am using two outdoor antenna mounted on the roof:
1. 3677 Channel Master Crossfire UHF\VHF http://www.channelmaster.com/pages/c1.htm
2. 3023 Channel Master Diamond Quantum UHF YAGI http://www.channelmaster.com/pages/u1.htm
and a Channel Master 0538 2-Way Joiner/Splitter UHF/VHF/FM (75 Ohm)http://www.channelmaster.com/pages/cjs1.htm to combine the two signals. The Channel Master products were purchased from Stark Electronics http://www.starkelectronic.com/ who provided excellent advise and service. The antenna are aimed according to the coordinates suggested by Antenna Web http://www.antennaweb.org/antennaweb/
Here are pictures of what this all looks like.
http://home.attbi.com/~discodol/af2.JPG
http://home.attbi.com/~discodol/af3.jpg
http://home.attbi.com/~discodol/af4.jpg
I am curious how I can improve the 50 reading I am getting for channel 22-1?

discodol
I am also using a GS 2000 with a Mits HD5.
I get 100 for both 8-1 and 9-1.
I am south of you by 10 miles or so?
I forgot the other readings, but 22-1 is also at 100.
28-1 I think is about 65.

I had a terk and the amplifier gave me grief, especially in UHF.
So I exchanged it for a GS2000, and got similiar or better results.
I do know that even it is a half directional antenna, it does need some kind of pointing, so you are not in the null sections.

I turned off the amplifier and rotated it for best picture, then turned on the amp.

Remember, numbers are just relative gain feedback numbers.
And, I believe 100 is when the amplifiers are in limiting, which produces the best noise free picture.
On my system, somewhere between 30 - 50 is where my sensitivity is, and is where pixilation starts.

Hope this helps a little.

Looks like WFLX is on holiday. Anyone getting their signal?

I guess WFLX was getting my vibe. They came on sometime after 6 PM.

Hi
I am replacing my terk 55 antenna with a standard outdoor antenna to be put in my attic. My uhf loop attached to tv worked better than terk. I live just south of Griffin Rd and just east of 441. If new antenna is pointed at antenna farm in north Dade, will I be able to get all digital stations both now existing and on drawing boards for South Fl? Do any particular antennas work best?
Thanks
Bernie

Originally posted by bernster2001
Hi
I am replacing my terk 55 antenna with a standard outdoor antenna to be put in my attic. My uhf loop attached to tv worked better than terk. I live just south of Griffin Rd and just east of 441. If new antenna is pointed at antenna farm in north Dade, will I be able to get all digital stations both now existing and on drawing boards for South Fl? Do any particular antennas work best?
Thanks
Bernie
try this.
www.titantv.com
it will give you a better idea on the antenna you need.
Regards;)

I have been told, and experienced that the Terk amplifier is a very poor UHF amp. This is why it only works well with VHF.
I found my indoor RCA amplified antenna worked better than the Terk.

I got a GS2000, and so far works great down here.

Now we need to wait for NBC to go digital, and we can get them all.

Bernie,

Also look at www.antennaweb.org
.

You'll be prompted to enter your street address and it will generate a map centered on your home with directional radials toward all the TV stations in your area.

I tried the Terk 55 as well with poor results. I then installed a big ugly antenna from Radio Shack in my attic. I can now pickup all the channels without an amplifier and it cost less ($65), but it sure looks ugly, good thing it is in the attic where no one can see it.:)

falcon,

Are you able to pick up WPBF channel 16?

If so, what model is your antenna?

Spoke to an engineer at WTVJ. She said they expect to be up by the end of the year, hopefully this year.
She said everything is ironed out with the FCC and "things are going smoothly".

Is ch 16 up and testing.
If so when are they up?

WSCV-DT (Telemundo affiliate) is broadcasting a signal on Channel 52.

No picture or sound yet.

http://www.wscv.com/

Does anyone know the zipcode for channel 29-1 FOX ?
Need it for guide updates as my second zip.
Using Mits HD5.

Channel 52.2 Telemondo! Strong signal but no sound. There is a picture but it is forbidden for Hardrock to see it.

Originally posted by mmburke
Spoke to an engineer at WTVJ. She said they expect to be up by the end of the year, hopefully this year.
She said everything is ironed out with the FCC and "things are going smoothly".

Someone in Miami was admonished by the F.C.C.
I'm not going to name any names but their initials are NBC

"everything is ironed out with the FCC"
Let's try "The F.C.C. ironed out WTVJ".

"Things are going smothly"
That's what happens when the F.C.C. steam roller comes rolling through the door.

Originally posted by friendlytrader
Channel 52.2 Telemondo! Strong signal but no sound. There is a picture but it is forbidden for Hardrock to see it.

Originally posted by spicyfood


Someone in Miami was admonished by the F.C.C.
I'm not going to name any names but their initials are NBC

"everything is ironed out with the FCC"
Let's try "The F.C.C. ironed out WTVJ".

"Things are going smothly"
That's what happens when the F.C.C. steam roller comes rolling through the door.

Rod,

Welcome back. Nice to see you're alive. AND YOU BROUGHT YOUR ALTER EGO TOO.

I thought the plan was to be up in September 02, but now they are saying by the end of this year.
Ironed out?
Yea, maybe, but it seems that we may have lost the fall season in NBC HD!
Programming is another issue.

George,

That information is erroneous.

See the following post:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=1108959&highlight=wtvjdt#post1108959

Here is an email I received from WTVJ today:

I just received your E-mail from NBC 6 viewer mial. NBC 6 is trying very hard to provide a quality signal to all our viewers in the South Florida area. Unfortunately, our HDTV signal originally assigned to WTVJ, is located away from a large number of our viewing audience. We are trying to move our channel assignment to the North Dade antennae farm where the other stations in S. Florida are located. Unfortunately this has not been an easy task. We may have worked out a solution which is being analyzed by the FCC right now. If they were to agree with our proposal, we could have a signal on the air by early 2003.
We here at WTVJ are working toward a long term solution and not the quick fix. When we moved to our new digital facility in Miramar, Florida, we were looking towards the future and HDTV. Being owned and operated by NBC, their is no one more frustrated about our HDTV signal than we are here at WTVJ.

Any questions you may have please feel free to call. I hope you will remain a loyal NBC viewer until we make it to our digital transmitter

Steven Kaplan
WTVJ/NBC 6
Director of Operations
Office: (954) 622-6502 Dial Comm: *590
Fax: (954) 622-6682
steven.kaplan@nbc.com

[QUOTE]Originally posted by holtwm
[B]Here is an email I received from WTVJ today:

IF If they were to agree with our proposal, we could have a signal on the air by early 2003.


There goes the fall season :mad: :mad:

I don't understand why the FCC cannot approve their request for a new channel assignment based on the fact that NBC actually HAS high definition programming to show. I just called the FCC's Office of Engineering and Technology, and they said we could write to Jeffery Goldthorp, Chief of the Network Technology Division, regarding the channel assignments. His address is:

445 12th Street SW
Washington, DC 20554

I will be sending this dude a few lines to find out how they expect the (bleep) DTV transition to move forward when they take MONTHS to make a decision on anything.

As quoted:
I hope you will remain a loyal NBC viewer until we make it to our digital transmitter

Loyal ???

NBC is the last station to go Digital.
They consistently delay, and blame the FCC.
Maybe the FCC is slow as **** but, if they a few phone calls every month, they would get faster action.
This problem has litterally taken years.
First the channel number, now the move, it is all related.

Sept has moved to Nov.
Now, NBC has another "excuse" to go to the beginning of next year.

They were #1, and were the first with color, but all that has faded.
They are using old data that says they are on top.

Right now NBC is all talk, without results.

What are they doing to push the FCC?
It sounds like lawyers, not engineers, are doing the requests.
They like delays, it creates more work and then they can charge more dollars.
They don't want a decision, because then they will stop invoicing.

Looks like NBC will go some digital and HD without South Florida this fall!

Originally posted by holtwm
Here is an email I received from WTVJ today:

<SNIP>

Being owned and operated by NBC, their is no one more frustrated about our HDTV signal than we are here at WTVJ.

<SNIP>

Steven Kaplan
WTVJ/NBC 6
Director of Operations
Office: (954) 622-6502 Dial Comm: *590
Fax: (954) 622-6682
steven.kaplan@nbc.com

Their Director of Operations can't even write in English, and you expect WTVJ to make a technological advancement?

I am trying Zip code 33401 for palm beach, second town setup.

Don't know why NBC (WTVJ) can't go out on a temporary low power until FCC gives them approvals.
This way they can start setting up.

Anybody else lose WPLG today? Their signal was screwed up this morning (weird vertical lines all across the screen), then suddenly they disappeared late this afternoon. I have been completely unable to reach a live body at any of their phone numbers.

Originally posted by Rudy1
Anybody else lose WPLG today? Their signal was screwed up this morning (weird vertical lines all across the screen), then suddenly they disappeared late this afternoon. I have been completely unable to reach a live body at any of their phone numbers.


No screen or signal meter activity for DT channel at this time.

Thanks for checking, Bill. For a moment there I thought it was just me. I should've known better, considering WPLG's track record. The last time they were off the air for several days I called their engineering dept. only to be told that they "didn't think anyone would notice" considering "there aren't many people in this area with HDTV's".

Originally posted by George33027
Don't know why NBC (WTVJ) can't go out on a temporary low power until FCC gives them approvals.
This way they can start setting up.

From what I've seen over the past three years, many TV stations apparently didn't take the DTV transition very seriously. It seems to me that any station that fully embraced the transition would've put into place contingency plans to deal with the sort of issue WTVJ is currently experiencing.

Can we assume that WTVJ is now or getting serious?
Don't know if we are being "blown off" or they are really trying to get up around Sept. but "politically" just saying end of year?

I also did not get WPLG yesterday. After an hour, I assumed they were down.

WPLG is back....(on channel 9-1 which my SIR-T150 now refuses to remap to 10-1) in SD instead of HD, and with a SERIOUS lip synch problem and major pixelation, all probably due to severe fluctuation in the signal level. I called them and they told me that the "guy who takes care of the digital transmission" said it was "working fine". Oh well, it's always something.

We may have worked out a solution which is being analyzed by the FCC right now. If they were to agree with our proposal, we could have a signal on the air by early 2003. We here at WTVJ are working toward a long term solution and not the quick fix.

This is really depressing. I was so looking forward to being able to watch the new fall line up in HD. I should have known better. :mad:

I think WPLG is back with HD.

Does anyone know when WTVJ will start testing?

ABC channel 10-1 is having problems.
Starts out in SD, then blacks out at a start of a program, then goes stretched SD?
Does anyone else notice their problems still?
Last night tried to watch a movie, and maybe the video was almost good but was it my eyes or what kind of res was it?

Sorry, I didn't linger on 10-1 long enough to check their video format (my Zenith tuner indicated the ATSC video format being received) but I noticed they ran Pleasantville in 720p HD the other night but ther was no DD 5.1 audio. Just "locked" my DD decoder in 2.0.

George and Dave,
Darren Alline had said earlier that WPLG is having problems with their HD board (whatever that means). I don't like watching them because they routinely have audio problems with the network HD broadcasts. In other news, I've noticed that WBZL is now transmitting in SD (my tuner used to identify the ATSC video format for that channel as being "HD"). However, they're still airing everything, including their letterboxed shows, in a 16:9 frame. The image quality is very, very poor.

This makes sense.
When I started to watch pleasantville, 10-1 was black. So I had to go to cable to start watching the beginging. Then I switched back.

Do they state when they will get their system fixed?

No idea, George. When I spoke to their chief engineer he estimated 15 days to get the board fixed, but you can never be sure of anything down here. Remember, some of the stations that are broadcasting in digital feel that they meet the FCC's requirements by doing only that. No one's holding a gun to their heads demanding that they also carry HD. As for WBZL....well, I'll be happy if they can just make their present signal look at least as good as my crappy cable service from AT&T.

They did have a decent picture a while ago.
Thank you for your response, now I know it is them. (need more coffee, english sounds bad).
Anyway, watched the Phantom last night. Boy, what one will do when there is nothing on TV. But, it was in SD, not in HD.
This means that they have not fixed the system.

What is needed is HD commercials, THEN the stations will put a higher priority on HD.
Picture quality was the same as WB (39-1), I am supprised that your cable is better.

George, the PQ on my setup (Toshiba 42H81 + Samsung SIR-T150) from WBZL has gotten worse since they went from upconverting SD to HD to just broadcasting in SD. As bad as my cable service is (and it absolutely sucks on most of the channel lineup I have), it still looks better than WBZL. When they were upconverting the SD stuff, it looked pretty decent. Now the image is very soft and flat.

Oh well!

By the way, do you know why 2-3 dissappeared?
I can get 2-1, and 18-1 and 18-2.
Now 18-1 is the same as remapped 18-1, but I used to get 18-2 remapped to 2-3, but no more.

The guide shows me 2-1, but no information on 18-2.
Sometimes hd on both 2-1 and 18-2, and then there are times the two are different and hd only on 18-2.

That was 18-1 is the same as 2-1.
Must be a glitch in the typing software.
(or a glithch between mind and fingers)

George, I've been trying all evening to reproduce what you described but to no avail. On my SIR-T150, 18-1 is automatically remapped to 2-1 like on your box. However, as long as there's a signal from WPBT, I always get 2-1, 2-2, and 2-3 (or, as you indicated, 18-1, 18-2, and 18-3). On the RCA DTC100 it gets even weirder, with what is actually 18-1 sometimes showing up as 18-2, with a corresponding change in the SD channels.

By the way, I called WTVJ today to see if I could get an update on their status but I ended up just leaving voicemail for Steven Kaplan. Though I haven't heard anything back as yet, he seemed pretty confident in a recent email message that their request for their move to the North Dade antenna farm would be approved by the FCC.

I have a Mits HD5, and it not good to see that mine is different.
Probably I have to do a rescan.
On my local channel screen (setup), I only get 2-1, 18-1 and 18-2.
I originally got 2-3, but that changed some time ago.

Oh, I forgot the second half.
When you talk to Steven Kaplan, ask if he is ordering the antenna's and equipment, so when he does get move approval, the process can happen expeditously.

Remember WFOR....... They had to get approval (which was sort of fast), then they had to order antenna. Hopefully, it does not come in damaged.
Then not all the parts arrived, or were forgotten to be ordered, so they had to wait for more parts. Then they had to schedule installation. Then the weather. Then low power testing and then finally WFOR!

Which I believe is the most HD channel being watched because of content.

ABC has HiDef again, but most of the time the sound has loud clicks in it.
Have to go to cable to hear, and have poor video.
I think the problem is their audio, and that is why they stop HiDef.

George, I've contacted them several times over the past two years about the loud audio pops, and the best I've been able to do is to get their chief engineer to admit they have a problem; it appears that the digital channel is not very high on the list of management's priorities. The concensus seems to be that there "are so few" of us (HDTV-enabled viewers) out there that it does not matter. Whenever the audio problems appear, I just change channels and forget about WPLG.

In effect that is what I do also.
If there is nothing else on, I then watch cable.
IT is a shame that they put out HD movies with cracking audio.
What they should do is put out 2 ch stereo or mono. At least then you can watch the Hi Def.
It has to be their movie audio convertor.

We should ding NBC to see if they are ordering equipment, or is everything on hold waiting for the FCC?

George, I just called the engineering department and they said they're hoping to go live by December. That's their story and they're sticking to it. The last e-mail message I received from Steven Kaplan indicated that they were optimistic the FCC would approve their latest proposal.

Our holiday gift?
Just hope that they will go low power testing before that.
Thanks for the info.

Why is WFOR-TV/WFOR-DT, CBS, Miami, FL showing Red Heat, a standard-definition, 4:3 transfer of an Arnold Swarzenegger movie instead of the (also SD, 4:3) David Copperfield special that my station, WPEC-TV (CBS), West Palm Beach, FL is running?

The movie is in Russian language with Engilish subtitles but WFOR-DT's PSIP indicates "English". At least the commercials are in English. :rolleyes:

Why cant I get any of my HD OTA today. Anyone else having problems today?

Update" They're back!!!!

I received a call from Steven Kaplan of WTVJ this afternoon. The only information he could give me was that they were still awaiting approval from the FCC to move to the North Dade antenna farm, and that it would take approximately 4 to 6 months after receiving the approval for them to begin broadcasting on their digital channel. He said nothing of an interim solution.

I can not believe that the FCC takes more than 3 months to get back.
They can't be that busy or have that much work to do.
I KNOW!
They are into terrorism, and and gave their staff to homeland security.
There is only 1 secreatary doing all the work.
Correction, if it was a secretary, it would be done, it must be a cival servant, doing work between making coffee and breaks.

LOL! They'll probably get around to dealing with these and other issues related to the DTV transition a couple of days before the analog signals go dead. This is so very typical of the way business is done nowadays in this country.

WSCV-DT now has sound full time. They're transmitting in SD, stretched to fill the 16X9 screen (geometry is easily by selecting the Pillar Box option on the STB, leaving you with a 4:3 image with gray bars). WFLX & WSVN featured different ballgames today, and WBZL is still transmitting SD in a 16X9 frame, making it impossible to fill the scren without first changing the TV TYPE selection in your STB's menu.

What channel is WSCV ? Is that the telemundo spanish channel?

Yes, George...WSCV is indeed Telemundo. From what I've read in past news articles, they don't plan on broadcasting any HD on their digital channel. I just wish the Palm Beach NBC affiliate would go live in time for the new Fall TV season. I think Miami's WTVJ is a lost cause at this point....January 2003 looks very, very iffy.

What about WBFS (UPN)? Any update on when they are going live? TitanTV says August 15. Is their antenna going to be near WPBT, WFOR, etc. in Broward? Will they be offering any Paramount HD One movies?

The last I heard (just over a month ago), WBFS was on track to meet their target deadline for going live. Construction was well underway on a control facility similar to WFOR's, and they intended to upconvert 480i programming to 1080i. They didn't have any info at the time regarding any possible HD programming from the network.

Just received a call from one of the engineers working on the WBFS/UPN project. They had major construction work to do, but they expect to go live with their digital channel by their November 1, 2002 deadline.

WTVJ is still awaiting approval of their proposal by the FCC.

WLTV-DT Channel 24-01 is broadcasting a test pattern.

Originally posted by hardrock
WLTV-DT Channel 24-01 is broadcasting a test pattern.

Strong signal in Pembroke Pines. No audio.

Is this the Spanish channel 23?
(I think it is on my cable 23, so I don't know what the OTA channel is.)

Yes, George...this is indeed channel 23 Univision; they also own WAMI channel 69. According to earlier reports, they have no plans for HD programming, either.

I was getting color bars test pattern on 24-1 in 4:3/480i last night...nice, hot, stable signal up here in the northeast corner of Lake Worth.

Just curious but does anyone know why WFOR doesn't broadcast the pre-NFL monday night football in HiDef?
Since it is in Florida (Tampa), and WFOR has the equipment, and the transmission is in Florida?
Is the problem contractual? or equipmental?

I am not sure about the contractual side of the issue, but I don't think WFOR has the capability to originate HDTV programs at this point in time. If they did, they probably would've already done so with their newscasts, which are a much more controlled environment and require fewer cameras than a live football game.

Consider that:

NBC owns Telemundo.

Telemundo owns(?)/controls WSCV (Ch 51).

WSCV is broadcasting its regular programming digitally on channel 51-1, but has no current plans for HD. Presumably, they are broadcasting from a DT equipped tower.

NBC also owns WTVJ, which as we all know too well, is having large problems going digital.

By now, you can see where this is headed. The question arises as to whether WTVJ could legally (FCC) and technically temporarily borrow/lease/commandeer the WSCV tower and other DT facilities for HD broadcasting. They might even be able to remap to 6-1.

Rudy -- If this is not too ridiculous, would you consider mentioning it to your friend at WTVJ?

Bill,
I don't think the idea is too ridiculous; in fact, I've written to the guy at the FCC who oversees these matters asking that they look into doing this so that a station with actual HD programming can go on the air, but I've yet to hear back from anyone. I don't know, however, if WTVJ considers this plan a viable option. I'm sure it's a lot more complicated than simply "borrowing" the antenna equipment, channel assignment, etc.

I just spoke to a Mr. Tam in the Media Bureau of the FCC, and he said that the parties involved are currently "in negotiation" to arrive at a mutually satisfactory outcome to the channel reallocation issue. He had no idea when this might be resolved, but he indicated that the FCC would make a decision once the parties were in agreement. I don't know what the hell that means, but I doubt very much WTVJ will meet their proposed January 2003 air date. The way I see it, NBC has HDTV content to show on WTVJ's digital channel, so allowing another station to keep the "prime" channel assignment that WTVJ wants is ludicrous when you consider the other station does not have any viable content of any kind to show on their digital channel. How something like this could even be open to discussion is beyond me. Maybe NBC/WTVJ need to get better attorneys.

http://www.fcc.gov/mb/

If memory serves, WTVJ getting he DTV channel that it wants requires reassigning two other stations in the area and everybody has to agree to that.

TWO stations? Well, if it's the two stations I'm thinking of, hell will probably freeze over before WTVJ gets on the air on the channel they're after. Why can't somebody bribe these people? Doesn't money talk anymore? :-)

WAMI-DT is broadcasting a signal on channel 47-01.

No picture or sound yet.

There goes NBC !
I think WB will go HD before NBC goes digital!

west palm beach ABC affiliate is broadcasting in hd 720p with dd 5.1 right now 12:45 pm ...pretty strange ...cycling thru the lcr sr sl..messing with audio sync..abc 720p logo...commercial for 101 dalmations..on air testing

I said this before, By the time we get WTVJ-NBC in Soth Florida, Jay Lenno has retired.., Lets just hope the affiliate in West Palm gets NBC soon ..
:(

Originally posted by wrat
west palm beach ABC affiliate is broadcasting in hd 720p with dd 5.1 right now 12:45 pm ...pretty strange ...cycling thru the lcr sr sl..messing with audio sync..abc 720p logo...commercial for 101 dalmations..on air testing

Basic and remap channels numbers, please?

Thank you.

channel 25 to 16-1

Has anyone in the Boynton Beach area had success with indoor antennas?

If so, what type brand(s) model(s) of antenna and receiver?
Which stations are you able to receive?

Have you experienced any odd issues with the programming (aspect ratio problems, audio sync, etc.) ?

Any help will really be appreciated.
Thanks

Originally posted by racostatorres
Has anyone in the Boynton Beach area had success with indoor antennas?

If so, what type brand(s) model(s) of antenna and receiver?
Which stations are you able to receive?

Have you experienced any odd issues with the programming (aspect ratio problems, audio sync, etc.) ?

Any help will really be appreciated.
Thanks

Try titantv.com they have a pretty good antenna selector ..

I am getting a signal from channel 47 but is not remapping to any channel. What channel is this ?

It might be TBN Channel 46 WHFT-DT.

WAMI-DT channel 47 is Telefutura analog 69.

That makes a total of 3 spanish-language channels....wonder if we'll ever see any HD soccer games.

It is almost Sept.
Are there any more channels available OTA?

Only Spanish language channels. Everybody's else seems to be pushing back closer and closer to 2003. And NBC Miami....well, maybe they'll eventually get a digital signal on the air some day, but apparently not any time soon. I've seen murder trials go faster than WTVJ's negotiations with the FCC for a new channel allocation.

WTVJ has a postponement to Oct. 2002, Is there any hint of anything going on, or are they just sitting around complaining about frustrations.

Let us hope that WPTV in Palm Beach

Not going to attempt to explain how I sent a half message.

Anyway, I hope WPTV in Palm Beach goes on the air soon.

Ch 10-1 WPLG still has video and sound poping.
Why is it that they give drop outs of 5 seconds and a loud click every 20 minutes or so?

And, when are they going to fix the audio so the sound is not twice as loud for commercials than the movie?

George,

WPLG engineer Darren Alline is well aware of the audio problems with his digital signal. But the consensus at that station is still that there are very few viewers out there with equipment to view the digital signal, so if there's a problem it's no big deal. I'm not just saying that...I was actually told that by one of their engineering staff about a year ago when the digital signal was off the air for several days and I called to complain.

Things will have to change for all broadcasters once they don't have an analog signal on the air anymore, but that day is several years away.

I hear you.
My complaint is that the video drops out for a few seconds.
So you miss parts of the show.
This is repetitious, and only on WPLG.

If this is how they feel about their viewers that small does not count, this may make a good story for Sun Sentinal. Then it may get fixed.
It sounds like a over heating problem.

Now that WB is going HD, they may be correct. The few will just stop watching their station, problems and all.

George,
You may want to e-mail Darren to try to obtain some feedback on what exactly is causing your problem with their signal. I am so afraid the loud audio pops will damage my speakers that I seldom watch ABC anymore. His address is dalline@wplg.com.
He listens, but you just get the feeling that he is not fully empowered to do what needs to be done to make their digital signal the best it can be. According to what I've read, they've been on the air since 1999...you'd think they'd get it right by now.

Perhaps the suggestion made a couple of weeks ago that WTVJ might be able to temporarily use Telemundo WSCV digital equipment and tower to broadcast NBC HD programming was not so far out after all.

This long article in the 9/4 Miami Herald tells of the "marriage" of the two stations and the movement of all WSCV personnel and broadcasting assets to the WTVJ site. While no mention is made of HDTV, the possibility would seem to exist, all parties and FCC willing.

Rudy?

http://www.miami.com/mld/miamiherald/entertainment/3995457.htm?template=contentModules/printstory.jsp

I'll e-mail the ops mgr. and see what I can find out.

From the Miami Herald 9/4


CBS coverage may mean missing start of UM--UF

CBS Sports president Sean McManus said Tuesday he leans toward showing Florida viewers all of Saturday's University of Miami-University of Florida football game even if its means leaving the coverage of the U.S. Open men's semifinals.

However, McManus said he has not made a final decision and couldn't rule out joining the Hurricanes-Gators game in progress.

CBS has allotted six hours for the two men's tennis matches, with the first beginning at 11 a.m. CBS is scheduled to switch to a college football pregame show at 5 p.m., with kickoff of the UM-UF game at 5:15 p.m.

McManus said he also has the option of switching one of the tennis matches to USA Network. That option would be realistic if the first match runs very long or if either match is delayed by rain.

But if McManus opts to switch only the state of Florida to the football game, the conclusion of the second semifinal would not be seen in Florida on USA Network or any other station.

McManus said he's rooting for short tennis matches to avoid a difficult decision. Any decision to switch would be made by the network, not by the local CBS stations, Channels 4 and 12.

BARRY JACKSON
© 2001 miami and wire service sources. All Rights Reserved.
http://www.miami.com

The new Sound Advice sale brochure offers refurbished Mitsubishi SRHD400B @ $299.95.

Two of them were probably formerly mine.

I just got a response from their operations manager, and he says that the FCC is still reviewing their latest proposal. Temporarily using WSCV's facilities does not appear to be an option at this time.

Ever wonder who the FCC is?
This is a government agency.
Now, the "reviewer" (which is more like one person) has probably 5 jobs, and one of them is reviewing station proposals.
And that person is being asked to work for Homeland security!

AND, the reviewer has to meet with 2 or 3 other people that have 5 other jobs to do.
And they get paid from our taxes!

Ever wonder why there is NO accountability in the government agencies?

Does anyone know if UPN ch 33 WBFS has any plans to go digital, and if so, what are they ?????

I had a conversation with one of the engineers working on that project a few weeks ago. They anticipate going live by November 1st; their broadcast day will be simulcast on the digital channel, and we can expect to see the NTSC product upconverted to 1080i. Their master control center will be similar to that of WFOR.

Thanks alot
I assume that WTVX is in West Palm Beach, where is WBFS and their antenna?
Also both WTVX and WBFS are both UPN ?

Do either have widescreen or HiDef sources?

Both WTVX (UPN/WB Palm Beach) and WBFS (UPN Dade) are owned by Viacom. I suppose they will pass through their respective network HD feeds once they go live.

I had that in my notes that WTVX is UPN/WB.
Which is it? UPN or WB?

According to the info at www.100000watts.com it is both.

Is anyone in miami using an indoor Rabbit Ear Type antenna for HDTV.

I have some clients in condos where there is no DTV or Central antenna, Are they SOL?

Hi guys! I finally upgraded to HD this weekend when I bought one of the Mitsu HD5's one of your returned to Sound Advice.

So far so good. I'm in far west Miramar, getting some good signals with a small indoor antenna. It does seem very directional though. Antennaweb shows 7 Digital stations between azimuth 97 and 99 from my location. While the signals are pretty good, I have to move the antenna to tune in the stations. Again good signals when I get there.

Is there an antenna that I could use that would pull in a viewable signal without having to rotate it?

Thanks,

Jerry

What's up with 18-1 not remapping to 2-1 tonight? And WBZL ruins the debut of the first HD WB series by showing it in SD?

Just spoke to the engineering department at WBZL; they were having problems last night with the HD broadcast of "Family Affair", but should have everything working right for the next HD broadcast from the network.

Hello, Jerry and welcome to the Forum!

Antennas do vary in directionality, but this involves a tradoff: the less directional an antenna is the more susceptible you become to problems arising from multipath reception. Multipath reception is a condition where the original, direct signal is mixed with signals that are delayed in time because they have bounced off an obstruction. That's what causes "ghosting" in analog pictures. In digital reception it can contribute to bad reception resulting in missing or corrupted data. And that means freezing pictures or none at all.

Multipath reception, where you're receiving reflected and therefore delayed versions of the transmitted signal along with the original, direct signal are really as bad as they're ever likely to get when the antenna is indoors. This is because the original, direct signal has had so much opportunity to bounce around windows, walls, doors, etc. before reaching the indoor antenna.

An outdoor antenna on the roof or in the attic would be less susceptible to multipath reception. Even so, if the transmitters are far enough apart from each other on the compass from where you are , an antenna rotator or multiple, selectable antennas might be needed to optimize analog or digital reception.

If you're able to get good reception on all the desired channels by simply making minor adjustments to your indoor antenna consider youeself lucky!

But if this drudgery is just too much for Monsieur, yet you don't want to get involved with outdoor antennas and/or rotators, (my roof has so many antennas and dishes on it that it looks like it's the roof of the Russian Embassy, but it's a flat roof on a two-story, 77 year-old Spanish Mission-style house so things are not so visible from the street) consider extending the lead that connects your antenna to your receiver so that the antenna is within easy reach from your seat so you can adjust it from there.

What is going on with the sound on PBS ch 18? The last couple of times I tuned in the sound was off! All I got was an ocasional pop!. I have had problems with sound on ch18 with the dtc 100 ever since they came on the air. I would have thought that they would have solved the problems by now. Anybody else have a dtc-100 without sound problems?

Sandy

Just received an email from the Director of Engineering at WPTV. They hope to be on the air with a 1080i signal by late December of this year.

In case anyone else noticed, the last two nights WPBT has been showing programs in SD. I called them and they said that they have been testing some new encoders (?) and should be back on the air with a HD signal by the end of the day tomorrow.

HD on WBZL looks awesome!!

Originally posted by holtwm
In case anyone else noticed, the last two nights WPBT has been showing programs in SD. I called them and they said that they have been testing some new encoders (?) and should be back on the air with a HD signal by the end of the day tomorrow.

HD on WBZL looks awesome!!

What have you seen on WB, I have not seen anything ...:rolleyes:

(this was posted incorrectly as a thread instead of a reply)

I am trying to receive HDTV with an antenna... I am 3 blocks NE from Oakland Park Blvd and Flamingo... Are either the Terk 42 or Channel Master Stealthtenna suitable?
Or would I do just as well with a double bowtie? (is this inside or out?)

I realize that with a redwood sized rotating antenna on my house I still may not be able to receive all the HD South Florida offers. And everyones mileage WILL vary.

But could some of the senior members list what stations I should be able to receive or my antenna goes back? Also which stations carry the most "true high def" programming.

I was about to return my tv because everything looked soft and fuzzy. Then I bought the HDTV STB and saw HDNet and Sopranos and now I realize its all about the signal.

And once you have seen HDTV you gravitate towards it more. Commercial stations must know that quality is a draw.

Where in the world is Jay Leno?

Mr Gimme,

I'm just north of Broward Blvd., and just east of Andrews Avenue. I'm using an indoor antenna (Terk Model 25 if I remember correctly) with a Channel Master Model 7777 broadband preamplifier. I get all the digital channels except for the Palm Beach ABC affiliate (go to www.titantv.com for complete listings). CBS appears to have the most HD programs right now. The Palm Beach Fox affiliate upconverts everything to 1080i and passes through the network's widescreen programs (the Miami Fox station, WSVN, broadcasts only in 480i, with no pass through of the widescreen shows). You may want to check out the 8pm and 9pm shows on Fox Friday night....I believe they're both new widescreen shows. BTW, I'm using the Samsung SIR-T150. And of course, there's "CSI" and "CSI: Miami" on CBS (check the listings for times and dates).

Good luck!

Hey guys,

I'm getting beautiful images on WB 39 (WBZL-DT) but no sound, actually I had sound for about 2 minutes during the beginning of Family Affair then it cut out. Also, I can't pick up ABC 10 (WPGL-DT) at all. Is anyone else experiencing this?

had the same experience with ch. 39... spoke with one of their engineers, who confirmed they 'were' having some tweaking going on, and only got the equipment for HD passthrough (similar to what Ch. 7 doesn't do yet), just last week. Also stated that they only went from one-half to full power in the past couple weeks.

At the time, he had me check 39.1 (remapped 19) strength, and it was a solid 80 here in Ft. Laud. However, an hour later it dropped to 30-40 again so I have no way of knowing if they're working on it again. They share Ch. 4's tower; and use a side-mounted digital antenna; I suspect it might be the one Ch. 4 used before they lofted their full-power one to the peak of that tower. Anyway, Ch. 39 presumably will also be able to pass-through dd 5.1 he indicated; so for the few shows they'll stream, that's good.

Other items: heard that CBS will start tonight to upconvert all programs (even news) to digital for the digital feed; which could be interesting for those of us who would rather have upconverts than black bar issues as framing issues (and burn-in risk).

I would be interested to hear what others think of Ch. 39's broadcast or signal strength tonight, during their HD transmissions.... it's the only local channel I don't get 80's or 90's on pretty soliday.... thanks!

Gene --
I have had a solid 100 signal from 39-1 (!9) since they first came on the air. If, as you speculate, they are using the former WFOR antenna, that might be the reason, as I was told at the time that it was aimed directly at my location. I am using the basic RS outdoor antenna at about 25 miles.

As for the audio, I do not watch their programming, but have had audio on the few recent occasions when I have checked the channel. I say recent because I have a vague recollection that there might have been no audio at the very beginning.

Originally posted by gene inger

Other items: heard that CBS will start tonight to upconvert all programs (even news) to digital for the digital feed; which could be interesting for those of us who would rather have upconverts than black bar issues as framing issues (and burn-in risk).



WFOR-DT has always upconverted all non-HD programming to 1080i.

What is changing is that the CBS network will start uopconverting non-HD primetime programming to 1080i for distribution on their HD network rather than relying on local stations to do it. This will ease local stations' ability to switch-in local breaks and enhance their performance when it comes to getting the HD feed on the air instead of accidently going to the SD feed by mistake. This will affect the primetime schedule only, not daytime nor latenight.

Depending on the format converter the network uses versus the one your local station has been using, you may see an improvement in picture quality. But expect to continue to see sidebars on 4:3 programming. (I, for one, refuse to watch stretched images. I operate the contrast and brightness on my rear-projection CRT HDTV at moderate, "normal" levels rather than in the blazing mode as delivered from the factory and after 2-1/2 years have yet to see a burn-in.)

What's the latest on Palm Beach's NBC affiliate? With the rumors of e.r., Frasier, and Conan going HD, I need to be able to receive something. Unfortunately, NBC is no longer transmitting the feed over the satellite in a way that I can receive...

Originally posted by wjbjr
Gene --
I have had a solid 100 signal from 39-1 (!9) since they first came on the air. If, as you speculate, they are using the former WFOR antenna, that might be the reason, as I was told at the time that it was aimed directly at my location. I am using the basic RS outdoor antenna at about 25 miles.

As for the audio, I do not watch their programming, but have had audio on the few recent occasions when I have checked the channel. I say recent because I have a vague recollection that there might have been no audio at the very beginning.

Did you notice that the image was more to the right of the TV? When the commercial came I had like 1/2 of the black bars on the right and 1 imch on the left , Anyone else ? :rolleyes:

I noticed this too on WB HD in Orlando and the station thought it was them when I reported it, but now it seems to be turning into a network issue since Miami and Jacksonville are seeing this as well.

WPTV's new tower construction is well under way. They're telling anyone who asks that they hope to be up around the end of the year.

Originally posted by jluzbet


Did you notice that the image was more to the right of the TV? When the commercial came I had like 1/2 of the black bars on the right and 1 imch on the left , Anyone else ? :rolleyes:

Yes, I noticed the same thing.

Originally posted by jluzbet


Did you notice that the image was more to the right of the TV? When the commercial came I had like 1/2 of the black bars on the right and 1 imch on the left , Anyone else ? :rolleyes:


My side black bars are of equal width. Perhaps my TV is crooked.

Originally posted by wjbjr



My side black bars are of equal width. Perhaps my TV is crooked.

Its only happening when they trasmit HD, not SD
:rolleyes:

NBC ........................ Where are you in DT land ???????????????????

George,

The Palm Beach affiliate expects to go live by the end of December. No change in status for the Miami affiliate; they're still trying to work something out as far as their channel assignment is concerned. Meanwhile, WPLG-ABC has found the perfect "solution" to their audio problems...they've turned the volume all the way down!
Just hope I'm able to pick up the Palm Beach ABC affiliate when they go to full power.

Rudy

WBZL (WB) ch 19 remapped to 39-1 was blank yesterday during Everwood(?).
Seems that they are still working out the problems.
When I went to see the signal strength it was bouncing from 0 to 6.
And in signal lock ???????????

Rudy1;
Will NBC by the end of December expect to go live in High Power from Palm Beach ?
Are they saying they will start to do low power testing b4 that?

George,

WPTV Director of Engineering David McKinley stated that he is very anxious to get a 1080i signal on the air as soon as possible....everything they can do to improve the time line is being done. He did not indicate whether or not the late December target date was for a full power signal or when they might begin testing. I will try to obtain further info next month and report my findings here.

Does anyone know if WPLG is aware of the audio problems when picking up the ABC NET HD feed? It is so bad, it sounds like very low mono in Dolby Digital...

I just spoke to Darren, their chief engineer, and he was not aware of the problem. He said they'll look into it.

Originally posted by Rudy1
I just spoke to Darren, their chief engineer, and he was not aware of the problem. He said they'll look into it.

Last night (10/1), the audio "NYPD Blue" was a disaster. No 5.1. No rear speakers at all. The volume was so low as to be completely inaudible, and had to be increased to near the top of the scale. When the local cut-ins came on at "normal" volume, it was ear splitting loud.

At the beginning of their DT broadcasting, Darren was advised by several of us that they were not passing 2.0 audio through in appropriate SD transmissions. As I recall, he was going to "look into it". In the 2-3 years since, nothing has been done to correct that situation.

Strangley, my Denon A/V receiver displays "Dolby D" with all WPLG-DT programming. With all other channels, it only does so for 5.1.

Rudy, I believe that you opined in an earlier post that they don't think that there are enough DT viewers to warrant too much of their attention. I am inclined to agree with you. Perhaps if we could get enough people to complain, they would view it differently. Have you ever contacted the station manager about this? Maybe Darren is the problem.

Bill,

Darren told me this morning that he had not been monitoring their HD feed "in a while", so maybe that's the problem. Both my Denon and my Sony AV receivers display DD 5.1 for WPLG-DT, but the rears sometimes don't have any sound coming from them at all. I've written to the station manager twice since they've been on the air with a digital signal, and I have never received a response. In fact, Darren is just about the only one who has ever communicated with me regarding issues with the digital channel. And their programming manager got pissed at me once when I called her to complain about them preempting a network HD movie to show a different movie in SD.

TV stations in this country had better wise up and realize that if they have no viewers, they have no business. All this crap about "not enough HD households" is just their way of avoiding the hard work required to get things working right. They know the bulk of the network HD programming takes place during primetime, and while this transition to DTV is underway they should have SOMEONE on duty to monitor what's going on. They should welcome the opportunity to get feedback from early adopters on how they're doing, and they should do something to correct the problems that are reported instead of hoping that "nobody's watching". As difficult (and expensive) as this whole deal is for the stations, it's NOT rocket science so I'm not cutting them any slack. They were all in on the process before the transition began, and if they felt they couldn't hack it they should've said so then and gotten out of the business. All this whining and complaining about the "lack of a business model for HD", coupled with an absolute lack of interest in the quality of their transmissions, just makes me sick. If you're going to do something, either do it right or don't do it at all. The guys at WPBT & WFOR seem to find time to make sure things are working properly....WPLG was first on the air with a digital signal so they should not still be having these kinds of problems.

Amen, Rudy. Well said.

It has been a busy year for the engineering staff that has the responsibility for three analog stations and three DTV stations. WBFS-DT and WTVX-DT are currently under construction. We expect to sign both of the new DTV stations on before the November 1 deadline. The last week of October is the expected time frame. The programming will be upconverted until the new DTV master control facilities are completed. The plan is to pass along all of the UPN and WB HD programming that will be available. We are currently working on the new facilities. This is necessary to in order to bring you the same high quality program material you have been accustom to seeing from WFOR-DT. The engineering staff at WFOR / WBFS / WTVX is the best I have ever had the pleasure to work with. They are completely committed to their work and are to be commended for all they have accomplished.

It has been a pleasure speaking with you all privately and publicly. I thank you for the valuable feedback you provided when WFOR-DT first signed on the air. That seems like ages ago. That brings me to my next topic.

I am leaving WFOR and beautiful South Florida and I wanted to tell you all good by.
I have accepted a similar position with another CBS station and begin my work there next week. This has been an exciting experience for me. I wish you all good luck and many hours of DTV enjoyment . Keep watching.

Sincerely,
W4GUY
aka
Richard A. Paleski
Director of Engineering
WFOR / WBFS/ WTVX

Rich--
As one who has communicated with you both privately and publicly, I want to thank you for the great work you did bringing us WFOR-DT.

Best of luck with your new job. We will miss you.

P.S. Before you leave town, would you please stop by at WPLG-DT and get them straightened out. (See posts immediately preceding yours.) <G>

Did anyone else catch the test loop on WPLG's digital feed? I had just finished watching Enterprise (one day HDef...one day..), and was surfing the digital channels on my Mitsu STB when I see /hear some test signals on WPLG. I tuned in at about 9:05 and the tests went on for 5 minutes or so. Saw a clip from 2001 Dalmatians (looked OAR), got a color bar test pattern...man wish one of the digitals would broadcast this baby in HDef on down time like they used to do on the analogs a long time ago... went through a Digital Dolby 5.1 test (kinda like the one on video essentials where the guys voice walks around your room and says each speaker position), and there was a very clear (this looked on par with the CBS HDEF promo loop to my untrained eyes) clip of a show I did not recognize...a woman looked like she was dressed as a "belly" dancer and was dancing around some guy. BTW the DD test was loud and clear in all five channels on my system....hopefully this means WPLG is getting the audio issues fixed. Oh yeah, almost forgot the best part...there was a stage engineer with one of those devices TV/movie studios use to start scenes...the thing they slap together before someone yells "action"....it has something like 720P test printed on it....and he just smacks the thing together like 10 -20 times...while someone in the background just rattles off the number of times he is doing takes...all the while in 720P HDTV....this stuff was much cooler than the bachelor

That was possibly a test pattern sort of thing originating from the network and intended for use of the affiliates. They get on the air every once in a while, probably by mistake.

I've seen that test loop several times on WPLG. It always appears to get on by mistake, and the DD 5.1 always works flawlessly when they play it. Wish we could get a hold of their chief engineer's home phone number....we could all flood him with calls whenever the audio screwed up. :-)

Yes, this test ruined my night. I was attempting to record The Bachelor to DVD, and they "flipped the wrong switch" at the exact time that they should have switched to the network feed. Another coaster for me.

Hey everybody, I just purchased a 16x9 TV and a Hughes E86, and was looking forward to watching the Tenn VS Georgia game on WFOR in HDTV yesterday, however when I tuned to the game, it was 4x3 with the bars on the side for SD programming. I asked WFOR and they insist it was sent in HD 1080i 16x9, but it just goes against what *I* saw. Weirder is their normal shows (Touched by an Angel, for example) DID come in 16x9 last night. Any insight would be much appreciated.

Thanks!
Rolando

Rolando,

The game was supposed to be in HD, but apparently whomever was at the controls didn't flip the switch. WFOR just lost their chief engineer, Rich Paleski, to another CBS station. I hope this doesn't mean that things are going to start to get sloppy at WFOR. They have been doing an excellent job of passing though the network's HD feed so far. I suggest you call the station manager, Steve Mauldin (305-639-4400), to complain. I called and left him a voicemail message.

Rudy

I was starting to think I was losing it. IT sucked watching the game in 4x3 like that. Though I will say this much.. CBS for upconverting their material looks very good, I just wish they would stretch.

Most of the people on this thread do not favor the stretching of the images. I like it because it gives me the option of using my STBs gray bars to view a 4:3 image instead of the black bars in use by all of the stations.

Okay, the audio problems on WPLG are driving me nuts. On Sunday we were popping popcorn again, and tonight NYPD Blue was DD1.0! Does anyone know what the problem is?

I don't think anybody on this forum knows exactly what the problem is with WPLG's audio. The station's chief engineer has been made aware of the various problems several times over the past two years, but nothing has changed. I've written to the station's manager and received no response. I wish the DTV transition included quality control standards for stations and broadcasters to follow, with provisions for hefty fines for non-compliance.

Same thing is happening to me on my HD100 in Coral Gables. Frustrating as hell. Maybe it's time to upgrade my antenna and try to tune in to WPBF instead. I guess I will have to at least give it a try. Anyone else in Miami tuning in WPBF successfully?

I sent a note to Darrin (Chief Eng. at WPLG) 'thanking' him for fixing the audio popping (the most recent series the other day, which activated the protective circuitry of my Sony DA7 it was so pronounced), and for raising the muted sound levels of DD. Well, looks like they degraded it again for unknown reasons, and no response.

Also sent a note (big joke...but not funny for those fans of NBC) to the CE at WTVJ, and again no courtesy of a response. With the HD/digital market penetration in So. Fla., you'd think they'd all realize they have viewers in size, not just the handful of enthusiasts on this site. Hopefully all of us in unison will not forget to keep reminding them of their service committment.

cheers!

gene

________________
www.ingerletter.com

I called WPLG earlier today and spoke to engineering. They said they're looking into the problem, but I've been told that before. As for WPBF, I just spoke to their engineer and they're at 3/4 of max power right now. He suggested trying an elevated, deep fringe UHF antenna, but felt that Broward and Dade viewers would not be able to pick up WPBF's digital signal because of the distances involved. I don't have that option at the moment, so I just won't watch ABC if WPLG continues to have problems.

The engineering dept. at NBC 6 says they're going HD in December, but they did not give me a specific date for testing or anything. They said that we could expect to see "promos" regarding the matter.

About receiving WPBF in Miami. I am now living in the FIU area (Coral Way and 105 Ave.) I just set up my two antennas, an 8 Bay bowtie for UHF and a 10 element Yagi for Ch.7-13, at about 20' high. I get WFLX with 92% signal on my HD100, as well as all the Miami stations at 95%. I have monitored the WPBF signal and it comes and goes (except late at night, when there was Tropo, and the signal came up to 80%), but I think that going 20' higher might pull it in. One problem we have is that Ch.17 is pumping a lot of signal into our receiver front end, as well as the signals close to me from Ch.41, located at 137th. Av. and 11 St. NW, about 5 miles from me. I am thinking of getting a dedicated cut-to-channel Yagi and attaching it to the side of my Ham tower, at 40 feet. Will let you know the results.

Jose
W2JD

By the way, when I was living in Boca Raton, I had only a 4 Bay bowtie and 5 elements on the Yagi, and was able to get all the Miami stations the same as now, and WPBF at 85%, so the fellos in Broward should do well with a decent antenna.

Jose,

I wouldn't put too much effort in trying to receive WPBF-DT here in Dade County. I'm using a 37 element (UHF only) yagi at 150' AGL near N. Bay Village and only get an 03-09 signal on my E86 during the day and 80-100 during early am tropo openings. I actually get better analog signals out of Orlando CH 27 (WRDQ) than WPBF CH 25 in Tequesta. Hopefully, WTVX-DT UPN 34 will have a better signal when they come up, but there transmitter is very close to WPBF's.

73's

Mark

"...I just won't watch ABC if WPLG continues to have problems."

Looks like this is going to be the answer for me as well unfortunately...

Does anyone know if WBFS is going to be subscribing (or is subscribed to) Paramount's "HD One"?

I called them earlier this afternoon specifically to ask why they were broadcasting their letterboxed shows (like "Angel" and "Birds of Prey") inside of a 16:9 black frame instead of zooming the image to fill the screen. The gentleman I spoke to in the engineering dept. said he didn't realize it was like that and that he would discuss it with the other engineers to see what could be done to address the issue. He also asked if I was aware of their HD shows, and , indicated that they appreciate hearing from viewers of their digital channel.

--------------------------

WB39 WBZL
2055 Lee Street
Hollywood, FL 33020
phone:
954-925-3939 (Broward)
305-949-3900 (Miami-Dade)
fax: 954-922-3965

"I just won't watch ABC if WPLG continues to have problems."

Things seem to have changed...at least for now.

Last night's football game came through on the digital channel in real 2.0, including rear speakers. The volume was a bit low, but was equalized between network and local origination. No more sudden loudness.

The few minutes of the Saturday night movie that I watched for observation purposes appeared to be in true 5.1.

For the first time ever on WPLG-DT, the Denon A/V is showing "Pro Logic" when not in 5.1 instead of the previously constant "Dolby D" for all programming. (Those are the only two displays shown without pressing other mode buttons.)

No popping.

We shall see what happens with "NYPD" tonight. As noted earlier, last week it was in 1.0 -- or less. (I shall TiVo the baseball game from 10-11 and then catch up to real time.)

We can but hope that this is a permanent thing and that they have finally seen the light -- or should I say heard the sound.

Bravo WPLG! NYPD sounds excellent. I'd love to know what the problem was.

I noticed that whenever they switched from the network feed to the local feed the audio would go from DD 5.1 to Pro Logic. It was not at all amusing to watch my Sony receiver's display switching back and forth over and over again as they went to and from commercials. I hope they have indeed resolved their audio issues permanently .

Sounds like they're now doing exactly what they're supposed to be doing. Now you can decode in Pro-Logic when only DD 2.0 is available. Previously you'd just get front-left and front-right with no ability to decode Pro-Logic when only DD 2.0 was available. Your decoder is switching automatically as it is supposed to.

As Paul Atreides would say, "I see the truth of it".

Originally posted by holtwm
"...I just won't watch ABC if WPLG continues to have problems."

Looks like this is going to be the answer for me as well unfortunately...

Does anyone know if WBFS is going to be subscribing (or is subscribed to) Paramount's "HD One"?

Per an email message I received this morning, WBFS does subscribe to Paramount's HD One package, so they will have whatever high definition offerings that package provides. WBFS is on schedule for a November 1 live date.

Sweet!!!! Looks like no more worrying about WPLG sound problems on Saturday nights. Thanks Rudy1.

I really enjoyed watching Enterprise last night! The picture was so CLEAR! I am used to the fuzzy grainey NTSC picture. They are upconverting the 480 to 1080i. I also was looking forward to the Twilight Zone but they went dark around 9:03pm.

WBFS is online already!??! I thought it was supposed to be the 1st of Nov!
Wow! That totally kicks butt!

Originally posted by dharding
I really enjoyed watching Enterprise last night! The picture was so CLEAR! I am used to the fuzzy grainey NTSC picture. They are upconverting the 480 to 1080i. I also was looking forward to the Twilight Zone but they went dark around 9:03pm.


What is the basic DT channel number? Thanks.

WBFS-DT 32

WPLG seems to be doing better now. Backdraft and A Bug's Life didn't seem to have any problems during the brief periods that I watched them. Both had excellent 5.1 sound. Also they are switching to DD 5.1 only when necessary which is a nice thing.

Thanks for the heads-up about Ch. 32... comes in strong here in Ft. Laud.

Also, I concur with the improved WPLG audio; no 'pops' and cycles just as it is supposed to, between normal surround and DD (so does HBOHD by the way). I too have a Sony (DA7ES), and the indicators cycle as is the normal function as they decode signals. Very much a welcomed improvement.

Now, if only WTVJ would miraculously appear in HD, or at least respond to any of us who inquire as to their progress... unusual for a major market.

cheers...

gene

_________________
www.ingerletter.com

Will this antenna work down here?

In order to get 18 and 22 it has to be rated for those channels right?

Televes (http://www.televes.com/ingles/producto/ficha.asp?COD=229)

http://www.televes.com/fotos/1096.jpg

According to this spec page it omits coverage for channels 13 through 20:

http://www.televes.com/ingles/noticias/pdf/1096.pdf

I don't think this unit was intended for the U. S. market.

That confirms my fear. Thanks.

But not for a while.

This is from The Miami Herald, October 30


Posted on Wed, Oct. 30, 2002
Picture-perfect: 3 stations to go digital
BY CHRISTINA HOAG
choag@herald.com

WTVJ-NBC 6, WPXM-Channel 35 and WXEL-Channel 42 will finally be able to start transmitting crystal-clear digital pictures next year, following regulators' approval of a settlement in a three-year-old frequency conflict, parties involved in the issue said Tuesday.

The approval by the Federal Communications Commission will also allow NBC 6 and Channel 35 to transmit from the coveted towers in Hallandale Beach, a location that allows ideal broadcast penetration of the South Florida region, said attorney Matt Leibowitz, who brokered the settlement.

''This is a huge deal for us,'' NBC 6 finance director Javier Maynulet said. ``We´re very excited.´´

While most other South Florida stations have been going digital over the past two years, Miramar-based NBC 6, Boynton Beach's WXEL-Channel 42, owned by Barry University, and Paxson Communications' WPXM-Channel 35 of West Palm Beach, had been held up in a conflict over frequencies.

Under federal mandate, all television stations must be transmitting digital signals by 2006. Digital signals deliver an ultra-crisp image on high-definition television sets.

The dispute among the three stations stemmed from NBC 6 and WPXM-Channel 35 applying for the same digital frequency -- 31 -- three years ago.

But when NBC later bought a 30 percent stake in Paxson, one of the terms of the deal was that WPXM would seek another frequency. Paxson's new requested frequency, 27, then conflicted with WXEL's application for Channel 26, Leibowitz said.

Transmitting on two channels next to each other will create signal interference in some areas.

However, in the settlement, the stations compromised. ''Each one is going to accept some interference,'' Leibowitz said.

Paxson Communications spokeswoman Nancy Udell said the company is pleased the issue is resolved. ''We're going to begin construction post-haste,'' she said.

NBC 6 is also planning to build its Hallandale transmission base immediately, with the goal of broadcasting digital by mid-2003, Maynulet said. The investment will be about $2 million for the equipment, he said.

Up until seven years ago, NBC 6 had transmitted from the Hallandale antenna. But as part of a 1995 deal involving NBC and CBS stations in Philadelphia, NBC agreed to swap its South Florida tower with CBS, whose WFOR was then transmitting from Homestead.

The Homestead signal, however, does not allow penetration of northern Broward County, and NBC 6 had to use another frequency, Channel 58, to reach that area.

Maynulet said NBC 6 had reserved the right to return to the Hallandale transmitter in the future.

© 2001 miamiherald and wire service sources. All Rights Reserved.
http://www.miami.com

Looked at their brochure per your link; and it's clearly for CODFM (or the European digital standard); not that it wouldn't work in So. Florida, but most regular antennas do a fine job in our flat terrain as you likely know.

I'm using the TV55, which few like, in Ft. Laud. and pull everything in very strongly, including the early PB stations too! A friend has that stealth-like Radio Shack sweapt amplified antenna; and gets even stronger signals (but no more stations, and he's above a roof line; I'm not)... so I think it's not that tough here in So. Fla. so long as all the stations stay at full power .. just wish WTVJ, NBC, would have the courtesy to update us all on when they'll finally shift to digital (I know why they delay, but an update)...

Originally posted by CINERAMAX
That confirms my fear. Thanks.

The cheapest ($39) RS VHF/UHF outdoor antenna receives all of the Miami stations at a location south of Coconut Grove with solid 100 readings. It also receives WPB WFLX 29-1.

I spoke too soon... glad to see there's progress with WTVJ...

The Televes DAT45 will work here in the US according to there frequency band width chart. The 174-230 MHz (VHF) band covers the US Channels 7- 13 (175Mhz - 215MHz) and the 470- 862 Mhz covers Channels 14 - 69 ( 471MHz - 806MHz).

As others have said, a cheap VU-90 RS antenna will work well in S. Fla. but a Televes will last a lifetime of use.

Bill,

Thanks for posting that article clipping from the Herald. Personally, I am not impressed by their announcement. All parties involved could've been on the air much sooner if they'd agreed from the very beginning of the conflict to do exactly what it took them over two years to do...compromise. All the money and time they wasted "negotiating" is absolutely ridiculous considering that they all agreed to "accept some interference" in the end (wonder what this means for the viewers). As far as I'm concerned, they needn't bother, but I'm pleased for those of you who are looking forward to NBC's high def programming.

Rudy

Thanks Mark. and welcome to the Forum!

Do you know where this antenna can be ordered with a credit card?

"As far as I'm concerned, they needn't bother, but I'm pleased for those of you who are looking forward to NBC's high def programming."

Rudy --

De nada.

I agree. Ironically, the only current NBC program that I watch is "The West Wing", which soon will be their only major show not offered in HD.

Peter,

Try this site for the Televes antenna. www.cpc.co.uk

They only list the DAT45 & DAT75 (both UHF only). You might want to try contacting them at internationalsales@cpc.co.uk for your specific request of a 1096 antenna. The only US contact person for technical/sales support is: Victor.Gestal@echostar.com Give him a try also.

Mark

THANKS! :)

Why does WSVN 7 Broadcast its Primetime Shows in Standard not 16x9. On my F38310 I must use the Fill mode to stretch the image. Is this a known issue or is it my set
Thanks
Craig

Originally posted by craigch
Why does WSVN 7 Broadcast its Primetime Shows in Standard not 16x9. On my F38310 I must use the Fill mode to stretch the image. Is this a known issue or is it my set
Thanks
Craig

WSVN does not broadcast anything in 16x9. Why "must" you use the Fill mode to stretch the image? It looks terrible that way. Leave it in normal mode like it should be.

Also, you can probably receive WFLX on channel 28 (29-1) using your F38310. They do broadcast shows that are 16x9 in 16x9.

Per Titan TV, Miami NBC affiliate WTVJ is scheduled to go live on July 1, 2003. (Just thought you guys could use a laugh).

Does anyone have an idea when WBFS is going to be showing movies from the Paramount HD One package they have suscribed to? Thanks.

Will

For the last three days I've been able to watch the Fort Myers HDTV NBC affiliate 15-1(remaps to 20-1). They just came on the air on Thursday they only transmit from 6:00 pm to midnite. I lived in Weston and use a GS 2000 mounted on satellite dish.

Originally posted by Rudy1
Per Titan TV, Miami NBC affiliate WTVJ is scheduled to go live on July 1, 2003. (Just thought you guys could use a laugh).

What is the Ft Myers stations call sign?
Is the station viewable or a lot of pixelations?

WBBH I have been getting a steady picture no pixelation.

DR.Guava
How is you signal one WBBH ? I am only a few miles from Weston, I will see if I can pick up tonight

During the day is tough but after about 6:00pm it gets as high as 70% strength.

Dr Guava

Okay, now I am confused.
Somehow, I asked for channel 15. Then appeared 20-1.
So, when I ask for signal (this is now at 7 PM) it is zero for 15.
My local channels do not show 15 or 15-1, but show 20-1.

So, I have a 20-1 channel of zero signal?

Originally posted by George33027
Okay, now I am confused.
Somehow, I asked for channel 15. Then appeared 20-1.
So, when I ask for signal (this is now at 7 PM) it is zero for 15.
My local channels do not show 15 or 15-1, but show 20-1.

So, I have a 20-1 channel of zero signal?
You are not alone..
I am not getting any of these channels eighter..:(

I just turn on the TV and channel 20-1 NBC from FT Myers is on I check signal strength and it is at 82. I am using GS 2000 with CM Amp 7775.

Dr Guava

I need to make a correction I have the GS 1000 with CM amp 7775. Still receiving NBC from FT Myers 20-1.

Dr Guava

Anyone else picks up NBC from Ft.Meyers . I have not had any luck, I even put the antenna 5 feet higher

I was getting 20.1 NBC and 26 ABC new channels for a couple hours last night. Also FOX switched from 35 to 36 and last night they stretched to full screen. 20.1 and 26 had disappeared by 8pm. These are Ft Myers channels. I also on occasion pick up Orlando channels. I live in Port Charlotte. I will be putting my antenna outside this weekend and expect much better signal strength than now it is in the Attic.

jluzbet,

You might be just a little out of range. I live in western end of Weston behind my house is a lake and behind that the everglades so maybe because I have such a clear path towards the FT Myers tower I am able to lock in on channel 20-1. But I also get a pretty good analog picture from Ft Myers Fox channel 36 but I can't pick up their digital and I know the Fox Tower is very near the NBC tower maybe is because of channel 35 locally there is some interference.

Dr Guava

Tonight there is a tremendous Tropo opening with the cold front coming in. Getting Orlando Ch.14 DT (re-mapping to 27.1), Fort Myers 15 (20.1 & 20.2), getting 16.1 (WPB 25), 50 (Ch.34) and even 59 re-mapping to 44.1, but no video. All these with over 85% signal, and rock solid. Lots of fun.
BTW- Law and Order is being transmitted in HDTV on Ch. 20.1 - full 16X9.

Jose
W2JD

I missed it.
Anyway, I thought maybe there is a big difference between the GS2000 which has it own preamp, vs the GS1000 with the CM 7775 amp.
But, it may also be the atmosphere?
Then Miami got 20-1, but it sounds like weather dependent.

George, the tropospheric phenomenon that happens in Florida is quite unique to this area, where we have the Everglades in the middle, the Gulf on the west, the Gulf stream on the east side, and very flat terrain. This causes the formation of temperature gradients (changes in the temperature from the heating and cooling effects) and they cause the VHF-UHF signals to extend farther than the theoretical "line of sight". At night it is most prevalent, due to the increased humidity and cooling effect of the evening. A weather front also causes a duct effect, where signals follow the line of the weather coming in. As a matter of fact, the FCC makes the co-channel distance in Florida bigger than in other parts of the country. As a Ham radio operator, I am accustomed to getting through on the VHF 2 meter band, located in frequency between ch.6 and ch.7 into the lowest keys and Cuba with 100 watts of power and a modest antenna. I have also conducted test from Key West, using a normal Yagi TV antenna, and have been able to receive all the full power Miami stations, about 150 miles away, with very good signals at any time of the day and night. I have been observing the Ch.34 DT signal (on Ch.50), and as the night comes in, I get almost flawless reception (except when a plane landing at MIA comes on the way, I am in the path of the planes). I haven't been able to get consistent signals every night from Ch.20 in Ft. Myers, as I don't have my rotor up, but in a week I will have a dedicates antenna to check it out. It's nice to get NBC in HD as I saw the other night!!!

Best viewing,

Jose
W2JD

So far I have been able to get channel 20-1 NBC frpm FT Myers everynite since it came on the air mostly the signal strength is from 65 - 85. But the ABC station in FT Myers which is located in same area I cannot receive.

Dr Guava

I am very interested in the NBC HD.
How long do you think this tropospheric phenomenon will be maintained?
I guess I have to tweak my antenna in the evening.
I live almost directly south of Weston, with 5 miles to the everglades.
Should get a signal reading, at least.

I have the front of the GS1000 antenna pointing towards the NW and I get all the stations in Miami from 75% to 85% strength, I get WPB 29-1 & 34-1 at 82% and 70% respectively with no dropouts. I get a signal stength from WPB 16-1 of 65% but I get alot of dropouts this station is the only one that I am having problems with. I also get NBC 20-1 from FT Myers with signal strength from 65% to 85% with no dropouts but it seems that I can only receive the signal after 5:00pm which is find with me since the only shwos I'm interested in watching are not on until after 8:00pm.

Good Luck


Dr Guava

A reality check please.

I have read most of the posts and I am ready to order a single Televes DAT-75 and mount it without a rotor about 45' above MSL at MM105 in Key Largo. I am 55 road miles south of the Miami Airport so I guess about 45 air miles to the bulk of the transmitters at 16,17, and 18 degrees from here according to antennaweb.org.

Is this a go or no go?

Ed

Originally posted by edison23
A reality check please.

I have read most of the posts and I am ready to order a single Televes DAT-75 and mount it without a rotor about 45' above MSL at MM105 in Key Largo. I am 55 road miles south of the Miami Airport so I guess about 45 air miles to the bulk of the transmitters at 16,17, and 18 degrees from here according to antennaweb.org.

Is this a go or no go?

Ed

According to How Far Is It:

http://www.indo.com/distance/

"Distance between Key Largo, Florida, United States and Hallandale, Florida, United States, as the crow flies:
63 miles (102 km) (55 nautical miles)
Initial heading from Key Largo to Hallandale:
north-northeast (17.1 degrees)"

I am not familiar with that antenna, but others might be able to help. The distance should not be insurmountable given the absence of obstacles. I receive a West Palm Beach station at about that distance via a beginning RS antenna at 25 feet.

Since the towers are close together, you should be OK without a rotor.