Wow, this thread just reached post #2000 (previous to mine)! :)

Rock on!

I am very happy to see my thread is still very well and alive and maybe someday we can surpass Denver thread!:D :D :D

Keep up the good work and party on dudes!!!;)

Now back to DXing..........

12-1-05

This is my first time browsing this thread and I'm new to Albuquerque so excuse me if this is redundant. It looks like the local NBC affiliate KOB has just recently begun broadcasting hd ota. Does anybody know if Comcast plans on adding this channel in the near future or if they are in talks? If anybody knows of any other hd channels Comcast is adding please respond with those as well. I'm just pretty disappointed with everything Comcast.

I realize cable is so 80s, but I live an apartment and my ota reception is pretty spotty so you can save the cable bashing posts. Besides it's not all as bad as Comcast. Time Warner in Wisconsin gave us more than double the hd channels of Comcast or directv or echostar.

The Silver Sensor antenna is highly regarded for indoor use. Also, if you have a private balcony or patio facing Sandia Peak, you would have more options for placing a relatively small outdoor bowtie antenna. I don't know the answer to NBC being carried on ABQ Comcast.

Brian

I've got a Silver Sensor on the way. I've tried the winegard Squareshooter outside but I've actually had better luck indoors with an RCA antenna or with the winegard inside my apartment. I was able to get pretty much everything except CBS. It just wasn't all that stable. I'll have to see what the silver sensor does for me.

My problem is there is an apartment building between me and Sandia Peak about fifteen feet outside my patio.

Seems to me we had a member who waited for HD -- then, sold his receiver and gave up because of a building in the way. Are you certain you didn't get his apartment?

Hee-hee. The truth -- even if it's useless.

The Silver Sensor rocks for me and I'm 45 miles away from the antenna farm on Sandia Crest; but, just about perfect line-of-sight.

Originally posted by bkzoller
Wow, this thread just reached post #2000 (previous to mine)! :)

That is great! I read this everytime there is a new post and contribute when I can. This is a great bunch of people who are very knowledgeable and helpful. I find the HD content available here to be very good and fully understand that it's all a work-in-progress. ( I do have to keep reminding the wife of that).

Anyways, congrats to all that contribute and I look forward to another 2000 posts!

Thanks
Greg

I just bought a Silver Sensor for my second tv to get ready for a Superbowl party, and it works great at Candelaria and Chelwood. Sears was the only place I could find that had them, but at full price. The Terk knockoff is supposedly el stinko. Jim Gale reported good results with the SS in the convention center, with all the concrete walls and everything in the way. JR

Couple of questions:

Is the SS amplifed or are you running it throug a preamp? Where do you have it located? Does it need tweaking if you change channels?

Thanks!

Originally posted by jerrich
I just bought a Silver Sensor for my second tv to get ready for a Superbowl party, and it works great at Candelaria and Chelwood. Sears was the only place I could find that had them, but at full price. The Terk knockoff is supposedly el stinko. Jim Gale reported good results with the SS in the convention center, with all the concrete walls and everything in the way. JR

Once I found the best place for my Silver Sensor, I never moved it. It's a bit unpredictable, setting it up. The spot I thought would have the best line-of-sight didn't work as well as another -- which turned out to be a more convenient location, though.

It doesn't quite aim dead-on directly at the antenna farm. But, it works well -- that's what counts.

No amp.

I've also found that sometimes certain channels work better if you rotate the elements 90 degrees in the holder so that they are vertical rather than horizontal. You are right that aiming at the crest is not always optimal, but not sure why. JR

You know, I've never tried the 90° rotation; but, this is the 2nd time in the past few days I've seen it mentioned. I'll have to try it just for the heck of it.

After I'm through watching Chelsea whomp Blackburn Rovers.

Tried it. No difference.

Have folks been bumping their power? 1st time I've checked OTA signal in a while [HR10-250] and Ch.4-1 was steady 85, Ch. 5-1 was steady 95. Phew!

Blackburn Rovers 0 -- 1 Chelsea. Petr Cech, man of the match, new record for most minutes as goalkeeper with no goals, also tied the record [twice before in the history of English Football] of 8 matches in a row allowing no goals.

Dude earns his keep.

My Silver Sensor came in today. I now get reception in the 90s on most channels. I'm still not getting anything at all on 13.1 CBS though, which is the channel I was most looking forward to. I must say the picture sure beats what I get from Comcast though.

Monger,

Are you running a Samsung box?

13 had some problems with Sammys. When I had mine, I actually had to e-mail Mr. Lily and have him reboot something or another at the station to get me back on line with them.

That was some time ago, but its worth a shot. Or, you could simply be in a black hole for their signal, as I am with KOB.

BGL

I'm actually just using the tuner built into my tv. It's a Sony rp lcd. Also, I'm in northwest ABQ on Eagle Ranch, right above the Target on Coors, if that helps at all.

I'm going to pick up a long coax cable and try setting it up in the other rooms just to see if that does anything for me.

I haven't had CBS since about last Thursday. Using either the integrated Mits tuner in the TV or the USDTV box. Thought I read a few posts back that they were having problems. Not sure though.

Greg

Originally posted by spawnman
I haven't had CBS since about last Thursday. Using either the integrated Mits tuner in the TV or the USDTV box. Thought I read a few posts back that they were having problems. Not sure though.

Greg

I hadn't had KRQE since about the same time as you but it magically reappeared day before yesterday. Who knows what it was?

Well, seems like KOB HD has a problem, watching Joey, the center channel sound is too weak. Can't understand anything they are saying.

Yep, looks like audio problems for sure. Main audio is so weak that if you turn it up so you can hear it, the laugh track will blow your speakers! Switching to CSI! :-)

Yes, I called KOB engineering last night and they didn't know what I was talking about. This has happened before on KOAT and once I called, they knew exactly what it was and corrected it. Who knows, maybe it's all too new to KOB?

Slightly off topic but I was wondering why Joey was even being produced in HD?? Its kind of a lame show at best. I can't see it lasting past this year, its just not that funny. On the other hand, NBC's best Sitcom (IMHO) Will and Grace is still being produced in SD 4:3........

Maybe the producers of Joey have more money. Is it the same group who produced Friends? Those people could easily pay for HD production facilities, I would guess.

There were reports of this problem from different cities on the main AVS HD Programming Forum.

Could be something at the head end that requires the local to make an adjustment. Back in the early days of HD(!), KOAT had a video focus problem during some Hockey and Basketball games caused by a change in the feed that got from ABC....it required a tweak to a device locally to fix it.

I emailed them about the problem, but they said they had not heard that there was an issue. A hour later, the e-mailed to say that they had just gotten an e-mail from ABC telling them how to fix it!

Never underestimate the power of Internet communications!

BGL

Anyone else have any issues with the sound during the Super Bowl? Picture looked great but the sound kept cutting out throughout the game and the halftime show. Appeared to be worse during the halftime show, (didn't care too much, don't like Paul anyways). But sound would also cut off during the game. Anyone else see this?

Greg

I watched it at a friends via Comcast HD, and it was solid.

I also have it Tivo'd (HDTivo via OTA), and while I have not re-watched the game, McCartney's performance was solid, no drop outs at all.

BGL

I figured it was local atmospherics. Maybe not.

During the NFL season, Kasa was pretty solid. Last night, I not had sound dropouts; but, also pixellation and screen locking up at the same time. Signal strength was as good as ever. I know what D* calls "signal strength" isn't really accurate; but, point is, it was about the same as usual.

I have created a page of Albuquerque digital stations with TSReader screenshots and it is now online:

http://www.nmia.com/~roberts/albuquerque-hdtv.html

Robert

*edited to make the URL clickable from the posting*

Hey Robert, great neat stuff and I am wondering how much the baby "TSReader" cost?:cool:

Might be useful for OTA TV DXing.

Great work!!!

Note, on KCHF-DT is still on the air but very weak here in Four Hill not till at least they move to the Crest and crank up the TX power.

2-8-05

Originally posted by N5XZS
Hey Robert, great neat stuff and I am wondering how much the baby "TSReader" cost?:cool:

Note, on KCHF-DT is still on the air but very weak here in Four Hill not till at least they move to the Crest and crank up the TX power.

2-8-05

TSReader has a free version (limited use) if you don't want to plunk down money for it. I am using the SASEM OnAir HDTV box with it for local digital signal sleuthing/analyzing/recording. I like seeing the configuration of the signals and see how much wasted bandwidth there is (one of the signals has so many null pid packets that it exceeds the bandwidth of the single service they run. they might as rent capacity to USDTV or transmit 2-3 other channels of random programming to reduce their wasted bandwidth).
you can also use TSreader to analyze satellite signals (the primary and big reason I got it in the first place).

KCHF analog or digital is non-existant here (even on a spectrum analyzer!) their problem is that their Jemez mountain transmitter is behind the north edge of the sandia mountains from where I live. I imagine where you live, their transmitter might be seen just off the edge of the mountain. a move to the crest would be helpful for them if they are trying to reach some more affluent areas of town off-air (sandia heights, sandia foothills, etc).

This is really interesting reading here. I have a few quick questions regarding HDTV reception.

Are the local channels outputting most of their prime broadcasting in HD now? My wife and are mostly curious about the shows that come on from the 6PM news on to the Leno/Letterman shows.

What I mean, is how much of the regular lineup would we miss if we only had UHF reception and did without the VHF signals?

Also, and don't laugh at this, I am asking because I am looking to get set up to receive said signals FROM SOCORRO. 83 miles. lovely. However, I have a few friends who have done it, albeit in houses about 40 feet higher in elevation than me. another guy on my elevation receives the SD signals perfectly fine with an amp so I was looking at the DB8 or Winegard 8800 with an amp to pick these up. As you can imagine, Socorro is not slated to receive any local HD signals anytime soon.

On a sidenote, I am hoping to try this out on the cheap with the Sasem OnAir HDTV tuner going through my wife's laptop (and through a projector). However, it only has a 64mb middle to low-end NVidia GeForce FX Go5200 video card. Thoughts? We shall see.

As far as I know, all the HD from Abq is UHF -- and if you can get anything, now, be encouraged. Most of these stations aren't anywhere near appropriate power levels, yet.

I'm about 45 miles away [with terrific line-of-sight, though] and I get everything with a set-top Zenith Silver Sensor.

N5XZS, does your ATI HDTV Wonder card record transport stream files, usually ".ts" or ".tp", or is it some other file format? You need the transport stream for tsreader. MyHD MDP-120 is another card that records in that format.

Brian

As of today all of the major networks in ABQ have HD capability and are broadcasting the primetime shows they receive from the network feeds in HD. The only exception is UPN still which is digital but only SD. We are looking good these days in NM.

As far as picking up ABQ locals from Soccoro, I would think your only hope would be one of these 2 solutions. Perhaps you could start with a single 4228 and keep adding until you are happy.

http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/16bay.html

or

http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/32bay.html

With a good preamp of course.

Originally posted by nuevo_eph
This is really interesting reading here. I have a few quick questions regarding HDTV reception.

Are the local channels outputting most of their prime broadcasting in HD now? My wife and are mostly curious about the shows that come on from the 6PM news on to the Leno/Letterman shows.

What I mean, is how much of the regular lineup would we miss if we only had UHF reception and did without the VHF signals?

Also, and don't laugh at this, I am asking because I am looking to get set up to receive said signals FROM SOCORRO. 83 miles. lovely. However, I have a few friends who have done it, albeit in houses about 40 feet higher in elevation than me. another guy on my elevation receives the SD signals perfectly fine with an amp so I was looking at the DB8 or Winegard 8800 with an amp to pick these up. As you can imagine, Socorro is not slated to receive any local HD signals anytime soon.

On a sidenote, I am hoping to try this out on the cheap with the Sasem OnAir HDTV tuner going through my wife's laptop (and through a projector). However, it only has a 64mb middle to low-end NVidia GeForce FX Go5200 video card. Thoughts? We shall see.

bkzoller, not to speak for N5XZS, but I also use the ATI HDTV Wonder to record/timeshift OTA HD content in Albuquerque. The files I have are all in the MS-DVR format, because I'm using Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. I have no idea if tsreader could read these, but I doubt it.

Yes, MS-DVR is a completely different format. It was introduced with the first version of Windows Media Center. At one time I think the format always had DRM enabled, but they turned that off. TS is not a Microsoft format and does not have DRM (digital rights management).

Originally posted by ibglowin

As far as picking up ABQ locals from Soccoro, I would think your only hope would be one of these 2 solutions. Perhaps you could start with a single 4228 and keep adding until you are happy.

With a good preamp of course.

Mmm, my wife would love those things. I like the idea of starting with one and hopefully being happy there. Can you pick these up in ABQ anywhere? And are the usual suspects, HD, Lowes's, the best places for good mast equipment?

I will find out if TS reader wiil work on my ATI's HDTV all in wonder, if not is there a software patch for this?

Minor news update........

Channel election news.....

KRQE-DT has chosen digital channel 13 after the analog shutdown date.

KLUZ-DT has chosen channel 42 after the analog shutdown date.

That's the news!!!:D

2-9-05

Is there a story with KRQE on 13.1? I'm able to pick up all of the other locals, but I get absolutely nothing on 13.1. I get a fuzzy picture on 13, the SD signal.

I'm currently using the Silver Sensor. Where I've got it now I get about 78 signal strength on 2.1, 4.1, 5.1 and 7.1, but that's just due to convenience and if I move it I can receive in the 90s on those channels, but yet I don't show anything happening on 13.1 ever. Just wondering if it's low power or if I'm just in an odd location... can't figure it out.

Originally posted by ibglowin
(...) The only exception is UPN still which is digital but only SD. We are looking good these days in NM.(...)


Enterprise is in HD on UPN right now (not sure if any other UPN shows are). Since KASY is running a puny ~3.3 mb/sec video stream signal, you won't be seeing HD (or very good HD) at that datarate.

Too bad KASY has rented so much bandwidth to USDTV that they can't carry any UPN-delivered HD programming. you'll need the backyard dish if you want anything in HD from UPN in this city.

If KASY would get rid of 2 USDTV services, then they could deliver some HD programming when available to them from UPN. KNAT or another station could pick up those 2 USDTV services so no USDTV programming would be lost if KASY reworks their signal.

Originally posted by N5XZS
I will find out if TS reader wiil work on my ATI's HDTV all in wonder, if not is there a software patch for this?

KRQE-DT has chosen digital channel 13 after the analog shutdown date.



i'll ask rod if TSreader could support the ATI HDTV All-in-wonder card at some point (if it can't be supported, it may not be able to stream to TSReader what TSReader needs to parse the PSIP and other data in the ATSC signal).

on the channel elections, are you finding those in the "Broadcast Actions" section of the FCC Daily Digest? I'm still trying to figure out where you can find the channel elections.

and for KRQE, does their channel election mean they are staying on ATSC channel 16 after analog shutoff or will they be moving their ATSC channel 16 to ATSC channel 13 when they shut off their analog channel?

Most likely on the analog shutoff date but then again they could do it early if they want to....

Channel 13 will be a ATSC digital channel for now.

Just go to FCC Media bureau broadcasts actions and just click on "Services" analog TV stations and type "State" NM and click on Supersed App, and click on the results.

Hopes that's helps!;)

2-10-05

Wow! Will and Grace in HD tonight!

Its not showing up as HD on TitanTV.com but it is definitely in HD tonight! NBC.com does have it listed as HD. About time!

Thanks again to KOB as well.

More channels elections update news........:D

KOB-DT has chosen channel 26 "Say by by to analog channel 4 that been in use since 1947!"

KOAT-DT has chosen channel 7.

KTFQ-TV on channel 14 has chosen to go second round election since its has no digital channel assinged by the FCC.

KWBQ-DT has chosen channel 29.

KNAT-DT has chosen channel 24.

KASY-DT has chosen channel 45.

It will be the first time that VHF low band channel 2 to 6 "55 MHz to 88 MHz" will be no longer used in Albuquerque TV market BUT unless some new digital station plan to use it.

That means for TV DXers dream has come true!!!:D :D :D

That's the news!!

2-11-05

Are we having our DTV meeting the 17th? JR

KOB has been very "pixelated" for the last couple of nights. When I check the signal strength it is bouncing all over the place. All the other HD channels are comming in just fine.

Am I the only one seeing this, or is the a know problem?

Thanks,

John

Has anyone else been seeing problems with American Idol on KASA Fox for the last several weeks? The PQ and sound is great but it keeps flipping every few minutes like a switch has been turned or something. Its not breaking up or pixelating at all just a quick blip for a second. I don't see it any other Fox shows just AI.

Yeah I've having the same problems with American Idol. It seemed to be happening more than ever last night.


I've only watched a couple of law and order shows over the past few days but KOB has been fine when I've watched it...

I had the same issues too. Looks like a FOX issue :( .

Originally posted by Monger
I've only watched a couple of law and order shows over the past few days but KOB has been fine when I've watched it...

Thanks for the info. I rebooted and it seems to have fixed the problem. Strange that the other stations were fine.

John

We had an excellent user group meeting last night at KNME, with two reps from Panasonic attending and giving a talk on their new HD cameras. They said ours was the only user group they were aware of in the whole country. A member brought in his strange new antenna for us to look at and will be reporting on his reception in a difficult location. I was first in line to sign up for the LG3410 hd dvr which I'll be checking out the next two weeks, plus my new LG 3510 hd rx/dvd player that Jim recommended to me. JR
PS. Fred is in Argentina (!) on vacation. Poor guy.

Anyone else seeing KOAT breaking up since Saturday afternoon/evening. Still breaking up Sunday AM. Strong signal but bad pixelation.

Originally posted by jerrich
I was first in line to sign up for the LG3410 hd dvr which I'll be checking out the next two weeks, plus my new LG 3510 hd rx/dvd player that Jim recommended to me. JR


Hasn't the 3410 been out for over a year?...Or is this something new?

Yeah, KOAT was breaking up ota and through comcast.

Yes the 3410 is over a year old, but now scarce as hen's teeth. The rumor is that LG has pulled them for problems, but the story goes on that Tivo is driving the push to get rid of them. Jim said they have not found one problem with this particular piece. The last guy to check it out, went out and bought one on line for himself. I'm looking for a good price right now myself. JR

Has anyone noted how bad KASY-DT's picture during the Lobo game tonight? :mad:

This is the worst video compression ever!!

It's amost like internet streaming thanks to USDTV crap, but the good news is they may be going out if business thanks to news by Ken H. and the Broadcasting & Cable Mag, on National HDTV programings threads on AVS Forums.

The Thread is called "What ever happen to USDTV & Emmis?"

2-21-05

Yeah, if it was possible to ruin such a great game, only KASY could do it...What a disgrace.

I've never seen such a lousy picture

I lucked out, it was on ESPN Full Court. Not that the picture was thew greatest but it was viewable. No tape delay either :) !

Originally posted by ibglowin
Anyone else seeing KOAT breaking up since Saturday afternoon/evening. Still breaking up Sunday AM. Strong signal but bad pixelation.

I was still getting a lot of pixelation and audio break ups last night (2/21/05) even though the signal was quite strong. Anyone know the cause of this or should I call KOAT-DT?

KOAT seemed a little better on Sunday for Deperate House frau's and Boston Legal. But it was still pixelating this AM so it would be nice to see whats up. Saturdays HD showing of The Green Mile was also bad during any fast movement scenes.

Make the call!

Has KOB done something different in their setup recently, (last 3 weeks). I'm using an 811 Dish reciever and an outdoor "stealth" antenna. Can't seem to get a lock on the station lately with the highest signal of about 63. I've rescanned and also tried to add it manually. All other locals are coming in fine. Thanks

I have two 811's with silver sensor antennas near Wyoming and Paseo Del Norte and have also noted the same problem occasionally.

Originally posted by N5XZS
Has anyone noted how bad KASY-DT's picture during the Lobo game tonight? :mad:

This is the worst video compression ever!!

It's amost like internet streaming thanks to USDTV crap, but the good

(...)



I think it was KASY's downlink of the KJZZ (Utah Utes tv) feed that was the problem. KASY runs enough datarate on their ATSC off-air signal to have a good picture even with the USDTV elsewhere in their signal. The picture was so poor on KASY for me (watching off-air analog) that I watched the KJZZ satellite feed for better quality.

===KRQE which is owned by Emmis wont allow KRQE on Cable Update=====

The Cox cable regional manager meet in Omaha with a Emmis Manager.

Emmis is still demanding to be paid for there over the air signal that is free.
Emmis is also still planning on dropping to 480P and starting there new USDTV cable tv over the air pay service.

http://www.usdtv.com/

In the meeting the Emmis manager said that ALL station managers will be meeting in March to talk about the HD on Cable issue.

Folks, your Emails to the stations are working keep emailing and calling your Emmis station.

If they do this, I thinks it's time to revoke CBS affiliations from KRQE-DT and let CBS network buy the TV stations like KNAT-DT or KAZQ-DT or even KCHF-DT which would take alot of work to move the channel 11 and digital 10 transmitter to the crest!

We will NOT settle for 480p no thanks you very much sir!!:mad:

Please send in your E-mail letters or snail mails to KRQE-DT or to Emmis headquarter.

This is getting to be crazy for this kind of stuff to go backward to stone age and act stupid sitting on their ass for just making more money and the sametime the picture quality goes crappy!

2-25-05

KRQE has always been pretty worthless for many reasons, but their 1080i image quality has often been very good. If they sell out for multicasting and downgrade away from any HD, then I will be shocked. Anyone who would make such a decision has no business working for a network affiliate.

I'd hate to have to watch Broncos games at 480p instead of 1080i

Anyone having an issues with PBS HD 5-1? For the last couple days, I have been geting a lot of pixilization.

Oddly enough, the same channel that shows up in the guide as 9-x is OK.

BGL

What antennas do you use/recommend in Albuquerque (indoor/attic/outdoor) for local HD? I live near Wyoming and Paseo Del Norte. I have 2 Dish 811 STB's and am looking for something I don't need to rotate or adjust.

I'm terrific line-of-sight to the antenna farm; but, 45 miles away -- and I use a Zenith Silver Sensor, sitting on top of my amp/receiver.

Be aware -- a few folks sell a knock-off that looks exactly the same -- but, doesn't match the performance. I haven't a clue about "why" -- but, the forums I hang out in all agree.

I got mine from Solid Signal online, on sale for $25. You may do as well around town.

"Anyone having an issues with PBS HD 5-1? ..."

Yeah...

If they can't pay their own way, get the hell off the air....:D

Well, shortly after I asked about PBS, things got stable. Have not watched it in its entirety yet (its HDTivo'd), but I caught 10 minutes of Lyle Lovett last night...solid, no pixilation.

As for the antenna request, I run a Channel Master 4221 in my attic (Tramway and Academy). Other than the fact that I seem to live in a black hole for KOB, I normally get ALL local digital stations solidly.

Never tried a Silver Sensor, but several other indoor antennas with no luck. My HT room is on the 1st floor, back side of my house....just could not get good lock until I went attic mount.

BGL

I live near Ladera golf course, the problem I had in the beginning was multipath issues with KOAT since the signal was so strong. At the time I had a 65" Radio Shack outdoor antenna and it would not lock in, so eventually went to the "stealth" antenna and I guess with the lower gain it has, solved my problem.

I have tried the "Silver Sensor" at another members suggestion, before I tried the "stealth" and I was quite impressed, but at my location I would have had to adjust the azimuth at times. The Terk antenna that looks similar is NOT similar in performance to the Silver Sensor, I wouldn't waste my time. That Silver Sensor may be worth a try for you since your so close to the crest and I think multipath may be an issue for you there. Buy from somewhere where a return would not be a problem. Satellite Warehouse has the "stealth" if your interested in it and they seem to be very reliable and knowledgeable.

I was getting all the locals, with good locks, until about 2-3 weeks ago and I'm beginning to think the latest 811 software update, (mine is on ver. P285 I think) and/or a change in KOB's feed may have affected my ability to get a lock. Still need to try reboot and hard reboot on the 811 to see if that help any.

Thanks. I tried the silver sensors which have worked the best for me so far. I also had problems locking at times and had to adjust the azimuth. Am considering the DB2 from antennasdirect.com but they are out of stock until March 23rd. Heard good reviews; it can be used indoors/attic/outdoors. Will also look into stealth and CM 4221.

KRQE will not get DD5.1 sound for at least another 18 months, according to their program director. Further, the rumors about KRQE leasing bandwidth for sub-channels may have merit, as it's under consideration. KRQE decision-makers do not believe HD is an important consideration in New Mexico.

I wish we could get network content from some other means than a local affiliate which cares nothing about quality or even providing all the network content. As it is, we're stuck with KRQE, which is worthless.

Originally posted by IAM4UK
I wish we could get network content from some other means than a local affiliate which cares nothing about quality or even providing all the network content. As it is, we're stuck with KRQE, which is worthless.

you can get CBS HD by satellite and you don't have to put up with the whims of KRQE anymore ... no worries about if KRQE will do away with HD broadcasts and rent that bandwidth to other people. you can do the same for WB, UPN, and ABC.

you can't do the same for FOX or NBC unfortunately as the equipment is way more expensive to receive their HD feeds.

Originally posted by sthscan
you can get CBS HD by satellite and you don't have to put up with the whims of KRQE anymore ... no worries about if KRQE will do away with HD broadcasts and rent that bandwidth to other people. you can do the same for WB, UPN, and ABC.

you can't do the same for FOX or NBC unfortunately as the equipment is way more expensive to receive their HD feeds.

How? Don't think Dish gives waivers for around Albq.

That's why Directv and Dish or even VOOM satellite can't give you the out of town TV stations!

It's so sad that NAB can tell TV viewers what they can see or not and by golly it's looks like we are in USSR "Old Cold War Russia"!!


It's called new word "Copyright Overkill On TV Viewer right's to get distant stations!"

It's like we are in USSR old cold war days if you were Russian can't get TV or radio transmissions!!

I think we have the right to see whats going on other TV local news other than Albuquerque TV market and avoiding like Church TV shows or Info home shopping crap or even worse to censor your favorite TV shows and get better picture quality!!

Now that's scary to see our country break up like that by censoring what TV viewers can see or what what going on in our great nation of ours!!!!

I think it's time to stop the scary copyright censorship for now IMHO!!

I just hope we wake up and smell the coffee and correct the mess we made!!

I think we had with NAB craps for now IMHO!!

3-2-05

I couldn't agree more, Timothy. Michael Powell likes to say that "if the NAB had their way it would be even worse."

That's a load of crap! One of the functions of the FCC is to provoke leadership and guidance on behalf of the public. Not roll over and play dead to the dudes making all the bucks off the airwaves.

It was a long, hard fight to get Fair Use -- and he gave it away. Now, we have technology offering us delightful advances in communications and entertainment -- and unless the money boys at the top are satisfied, we're told we should hang around and wait until their profits are guaranteed and protected.

That's not how the US broadcast industry grew. It's not so surprising the industry is run by congomerates and bean-counters, nowadays. That still doesn't justify "them" making the rules for "us".

Just my morning rant, folks.

I agree only partially. I happen to like some of the Church shows and they're good for those people that can't leave their home because of a disability, etc. I think that we should be able to watch all kinds of shows and the viewer can decide which ones to watch or not watch.

I would not care what KRQE and our other affiliates did (pre-empting national telecasts for infomercials, leasing bandwidth, etc.) were it not for the fact that I am bound to rely on them exclusively for network programming. If I could get the network programming in a quality presentation without having to depend on the local affiliates, I'd be willing to pay a nominal subscription fee for that.

It amuses me to read as people bemoan the capitalist system, as they complain about not being able to get hi-def CBS. All of us have great TV's, etc., etc. becuase we are in a capitalist economy, and not in the USSR. As such, you must vote with your feet. Contact stattion advertisers, let them know that continuing to fund programming on KRQE reflects their support of Ennis' business practices. Contact your local representatives.

The NAB will have no power if there are no advertisers, and no viewers. Whining here will not accomplish either of those tasks.

Amen, Jeffrey!

Gone

Yeah, or you could do the same....

Same old, same old. Perish the thought we should act, collectively, to discuss common problems and questions, work together to resolve these questions. Just trust in the marketplace and our stellar elected officials to take care of everything for us.

It's not a new question. Maybe that's why some of us belong to something called a "forum". Remember?

Well nobody in here was speaking deploratively about the capital system. They were talking about one thing and comparing it to communism. So then we need someone to come in to an audio video science forum and go on the attack by taking things out of context?

Second, if somebody doesn't mention Emmis business practices in here, how are the rest of us supposed to find out? So attacking them to quit whining and take action is just more of the same garbage. We're all adults and I'm sure are beyond whining. The take action argument is just a blanket statement you could use towards any conversation which is speaking negatively about a particular issue and adds nothing to the conversation. If you wanted to say let's start a campaign to stop advertising on Emmis and this is how we should start, that would be entirely different. But belittling people who "amuse" you with a blanket statement in a forum which the sole idea is conversation serves for nothing more than making yourself feel better.

Well, I thought both sides had valid points, but you got a little personal...unnecessarily, IMHO, and you seemed to be taking things as much out of context as anyone else.

Just my $.02

I had Dish set me up with a 811 to my Sharp aquos LC-20B6U with the HD pack and I sucessfully grabbed about 10 OTA locals. Only problem I am having is it seems I have to set the receiver for HD to 1080i and 4:3 #1 but then the regular SD gets screwed up.. smaller 4:3 box and when I use the Dish zoom it goes wide screen instead of filling the screen 4:3. Opposite issue when I set the receiver to 4:3 #2 with 480i the regular SD is ok but the HD is full screen when it should be wide like HDnet etc..

When I tried CC 3050 box it had a passthough and all the HD and SD worked fine, with exception of the SD looking a little dark which is an issue with the CC 3050. I hate to have to set the receiver everytime I switch from SD to HD.. But I have tried everything.. I am using component cables. The sharp does not have a DVI. But I have a straight shot to the crest from the west side (Taylor ranch) and the first scan locked to everything it seems.

If anybody else is familiar with the 811 I would sure appreciate any help in setting it up so I don't have to keep changing the settings. I am thinking the 811 does not have a passthough like the CC box has. I called Dish and their advanced tech support is not so advanced. They did say they would send somebody out next wed. The installer was in a big hurry when he did my install. None of the remotes were addressed and the 322 and 811 were interferring which each other. Got that straightened out. I think the 322 has a better PQ on SD then the 811. And CC HD is better then dishes. But overall I think Dish does a better job PQ wise over CC offerings. But I did like their HD. Don't think CC box would allot OTA but then I was not aware of that until I starting reading from this forum.

Samatha, welcome to AVS Forum! I live near you on the West side, and pick up good signals off the crest as well. The problem you describe is a bit of a mystery, since I use DirecTV (Sony receiver) and a 16:9 DLP monitor; however, here's a guess: Your monitor is 4:3 with a pixel count of 1024x768. Perhaps there is a setting on the aquos to tell it what kind of signal it's processing (HD, 16:9, SD...)?

Welcome aboard. Sorry, to be no help on the hardware, I run a Samsung DLP and HR10-250 for HD.

There will be other folks with Dish chiming in, though.

Welcome Samantha, have you tried SatelliteGuys? or dbstalk?...myself I have the 6000u and a 921 (skipped the 811) so not familiar with it...

Have you tried setting it to 16X9?

Originally posted by ibglowin
Have you tried setting it to 16X9?

First, thanks for all the responses for my Dish 811/sharp aquos issue. Yes I have tried the 16X9 and every combination of settings on TV and 811. But after much searching, I found that I am not alone. Here is another thread pointing out this exact issue with the 811:
dbstalk.com/archive/index.php/t-38788.html (just put a www in front since this forum won't let me post url yet since i need to make 5 posts)

The original installer will be out tomorrow since he did not have the paperwork for me to sign.. I have another dish guy coming out on wed as well to look into this.. Hopefully they may have some ideas but I doubt it. Maybe a firmware could address this. I know if the 811 had a passthough my TV could handle it.. It did with the CC SA3050.

I don't have much hope that the installer will know much about your problem. Most are just not that up to date on HD receivers. I have owned every HD receiver Dish has put out over the past 3 years including the 811. If you would like to discuss your problem offline let me know. Be happy to help if i can. :-)

Try SatelliteGuys or dbs and post your problem... Simple Simon frequents both and really knows E* stuff, or Nippjas or Jason Nipp as he calls himself at dbs knows also...If you went back to CC you could maybe pick up a Usdtv box at Walley world for 200$, they will pick up ota... I believe with out subing to the bandwidth stealing varmints....

Originally posted by dfergie
Try SatelliteGuys or dbs and post your problem... Simple Simon frequents both and really knows E* stuff, or Nippjas or Jason Nipp as he calls himself at dbs knows also...If you went back to CC you could maybe pick up a Usdtv box at Walley world for 200$, they will pick up ota... I believe with out subing to the bandwidth stealing varmints....

Sometime today Dish should come out but I doubt anything will change. For now, I guess I can live with changing the settings for HD and SD channels. At least I can get it to work. CC is not an option at this time since they only have a couple of locals on HD and the SD channels are way too dark on the SA3050 box. The DVR they have is even worse since it messes up the analogs something awful when it unconverts the signal to digital. Most people usually split the line and run the analog straight to TV and then use the receiver for SD and HD. Since I already have the line split for CC HSI, I don't want to split it again. Before I go back to CC they are going to have to simulcast the analogs to Digital and come out with newer HD boxes that will improve the darkness issue with the SD channels. I think if they do that, CC may really for once have something comparable to the satelite. I have been told by a CC CSR that the simulcast will happen this summer. Also a newer CC HD box the SA3070 will come out next month possibly.

As for my early observations on the local OTA channels, they are mixed. Most of the locals are not truely HD. Maybe they do for certain shows. I guess because like you say, they are selling to much bandwidth to USD. UPN probably looks the worst and KOB is the hardest to lock in but I generally do ok since I have no obstructions to the crest. PBS HD comes in perfect and looks to be the only real HD. I did see Law and order on the networks and it looked to be HD. Overall the HD channels are coming in much better then Dishes SD networks so its nice that the 811 allows you to add them in. At this point I think I will stay with Dish for awhile and see who steps up to HD by adding more content. Once you see HD everything else looks pretty crappy. I am already thinking about adding more HD TV's in the future and what options I may have with Dish in doing that.

As for USD, I thought that box was encrypted but it may allow locals as you say. I think I will pass on that one. The 811 will do for now. A dish CSR was trying to get me to purchase a 921. But I told her that I would not invest in any HD receiver right now since this technology is so new and I see all the HD receivers as somewhat beta and buggy at this time. I think in the next year or two we will have much better hardware to choose from. Already I have managed to lock up my 811 four times and this thing is reported to be pretty stable right now. I hear the 921 is more buggy then the 811.

Starting "sometime" this year, DirecTV will be switching over to MPEG-4 for all content -- SD and HD. That will be a major improvement.

The Beta route for those of us with HR10-250's hasn't been bad because they've been willing and able to replace anything defective [10% is a good guess] quickly. And the update to MPEG-4 will only be cost of shipping on new units.

The only questions we're all sitting around with are about how many choices will be offered and when? They're starting with a small number of major markets; so, we know that doesn't include NM.

MPEG-4 is only supposed to be for new HD content. That includes the local HD for the big markets this year and possibly some national HD channels. The second satellite for local HD will be launched in 2007, which may provide service for the Albuquerque market. There may also be a transition period where they have a mixture of MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 on the national HD channels. MPEG-2 will stay around for SD channels for a while. There are no analog channels on DirecTV, however, so that could be considered an improvement over cable.

Brian

Originally posted by samatha
As for my early observations on the local OTA channels, they are mixed. Most of the locals are not truely HD.

Local channels in HD:
2 (FOX) - 720p, DD5.1 - content is somewhat limited, but pretty good (American Idol, 24...)

4 (KOB) - 1080i, DD5.1 - they came VERY late to the HD game, but they seem to be providing HD for those programs that NBC sends out in HD

7 (ABC) - 720p, DD5.1 - fairly solid HDTV supporter; they used to provide the east coast feed, non-timeshifted, with local commercials inserted

13 (CBS) - 1080i, stereo - these guys care nothing about HD, and may later lease bandwidth. They are a worthless affiliate and I am very disappointed that I am required to rely on them for CBS programming. However, CBS has some good HD productions, and at least the image quality on KRQE is currently good.

19 (The WB) - 1080i, DD5.1 - very limited content, but good presentation by our little local affiliate

50 (UPN) - 480i, stereo - absolutely worthless! leasing bandwidth to the evil USDTV

I have to put my 2 cents in. CBS actually looks pretty good (i.e. CSI, etc.). They do not provide DD 5.1 sound but not much of their network programming is in DD 5.1. The sometime forget to "manually" switch the digital channel to HD mode from SD mode, which I had to make a phone call to their engineering dept.

Also, when evaluating picture quality you have to know whether the program was originally recorded on film then transferred to HD video (as most of the prime-time programs on commercial TV), or, if the program was recorded on HD video from HD video cameras. That later definitely looks the best which comes from the Discovery HD channel or HDNet.

Our local HD stations do use different bandwidths to send out their HD programs. our UPN station has leased most of their digital bandwidth to USDTV which leaves little to provide us here in ABQ a decent high-def channel. Not sure how much the WB channel has leased out to USDTV but the quality of their HD channel is just "acceptable". I feel our CBS, ABC, FOX and PBS channels look pretty good.

From what I hear, the FCC gave broadcasters extra bandwidth to sell as an incentive to upgrade their stations to digital. The problem is, the FCC apparently did not put a limit on how much bandwidth to sell. So that leaves some stations like UPN selling a majority of their bandwidth to probably not only pay for their upgrades, but to add to the revenue base. Meanwhile, the FCC is pushing everthing digital just so they can sell off the unused analog spectrums for other areas of use. So it appears to me that HD is off to a bad start before it even takes off. There should have been a standard of minimum requirements for HD broadcasts. It looks to me that money is the driving point from the FCC as well as from the broadcasters. It would be sad if one day there is 30 satelite stations as well over- compressing their HD content.

My 921 has been pretty stable...but down here we have no OTA's and the only digital is koct that is down more than it is up...so that might have something to do with it... I have D*sd I keep alive for the distants... (already sent my note in saying I did not want my "local's)and I should have gotten an D*HD receiver before the first of the Year... who knows with the right CSR I might have gotten NBC and ABC HD nets. I get CBShd east and west from E* now...

Bandwidth is a new currency. While broadcasters are required to move to digital, they are not required to move to HD. The temptation to lease bandwidth must be great, given those conditions. I also wish we had some sure way to access HD network content, but as it is, we are stuck. We must rely on our local affiliate, but they have no obligation to provide the HD network content.

Originally posted by IAM4UK
Local channels in HD:
2 (FOX) - 720p, DD5.1 - content is somewhat limited, but pretty good (American Idol, 24...)

4 (KOB) - 1080i, DD5.1 - they came VERY late to the HD game, but they seem to be providing HD for those programs that NBC sends out in HD

7 (ABC) - 720p, DD5.1 - fairly solid HDTV supporter; they used to provide the east coast feed, non-timeshifted, with local commercials inserted

13 (CBS) - 1080i, stereo - these guys care nothing about HD, and may later lease bandwidth. They are a worthless affiliate and I am very disappointed that I am required to rely on them for CBS programming. However, CBS has some good HD productions, and at least the image quality on KRQE is currently good.

19 (The WB) - 1080i, DD5.1 - very limited content, but good presentation by our little local affiliate

50 (UPN) - 480i, stereo - absolutely worthless! leasing bandwidth to the evil USDTV

One you missed is PBS in HD. The concerts that I've seen and heard have been great! Always kick myself when I forget to check what's on and end up missing something great!

Spawnman

That's what a TiVo is for.

edwardacampbell and others


So I have HDTV, Directv and OTA HD and a high-end Sony DTV player/recorder. The latter is a "pia" to use. Would I be better off with the Direct TV TIVO? Any recommendations would be appreciated. I don't want to record too much but some of the sports events I covet are at times I cannot watch...any upcoming devices I should be waiting on?

thanks

I'm more optimistic than Brian about what's arriving and when, how many birds will be launched this year -- after ten years plus with DirecTV. I have my old SD DirecTiVo which backs me up in case I miss an EPL or Lique Un football match. I have the HR10-250 which is essentially dedicated to finding everything approaching a decent movie or documentary in HD -- my wife and I are fascinated by the increase in quality; but, there always is short-term storage going on for [SD] Fox Soccer Channel plus the addition of GOL TV [and Spanish and Italian football].

The US national team match in Abq, in 2 weeks, will be on HDNet, by the way!

I'm sort of hoping the new MPEG4 hardware rolls out soon enough to match the expanded HD content I also expect. Murdoch's track record with Sky TV was to get new technology to the consumer faster than promised [to consumers and regulators]. That was especially so in their conversion from analog to digital.

Otherwise, I would go ahead and hack the HDTiVo up to 2 HD's/larger capacity -- to match the content level I'm looking forward to. I could always change it back for the hardware swap.

Frankly, either road, SD or HD, the TiVo's let me get outdoors during the daylight and keep from turning into one of the creatures I watch in my favorite movies! We have lots of discussions [over in the TiVo Community Forum] about software, preferences, the future of TiVo's product vs. what may come from Murdoch's operation -- which is just starting up. If you want to record HD and you're a D* customer, you really only have one all-encompassing machine: the HR10-250. They stock them now at the local Best Buy. Even Baillio usually has one.

I'm also interested in [hoping for] what's coming down the pike in home media center computers and moving my entertainment hardware into my home network. The network will get faster in the next year or so -- acquire capacity to move bigger chunks of media wirelessly. Frankly, I'd like to see Apple buy TiVo and give me an excuse to buy a Mini for the living room! [that's only slightly tongue-in-cheek]

So, get the HR10-250. See the TiVo Community pages for all the perks and discounts you can wangle from DirecTV. Get the R10 if you want to dedicate a machine to SD sports. You should be able to get one for $49-$99. Ask for discounts, again. All that will happen is that you'll have more fun -- if your budget allows.

For those who don't have satellite, there is still the Lucky Goldstar LST-3410a stand alone HD dvr. Mine should arrive tomorrow. JR

"13 (CBS) - 1080i, stereo - these guys care nothing about HD, and may later lease bandwidth. They are a worthless affiliate and I am very disappointed that I am required to rely on them for CBS programming. However, CBS has some good HD productions, and at least the image quality on KRQE is currently good".

Are they passing along all of the HD programing that the network has scheduled?

Has anyone noticed the guide info on E8--at least on my 921--has recently been saying "local off-air programming, for recorded timers on KOAT-7?

It didn't used to, and none of the other stations do.

Well my original installer told me he was going to stop by yesterday and have me sign the contract that he did not have with him, but he failed to show or call. Also the other apointment I had for another Dish person to show up to diagnose why I have to change the setup for HD and SD failed to show or call as well. The whole installer/CSR support with Dish is living up to their bad reputation I am afraid.

However, I did manage to get the 811 to work with the composite AV2 output. I was stupid in having them on the inputs. But I did try the other outputs on the video but I think I had the audio still connected on the inputs and that may have been the issue. For some reason, the PQ looks much better on the SD channels when using composite cables. Using the components makes the picture too colorful and seems to degrade it a bit. With composite, the PQ looks similar to the 322 box. So now I just change the inputs on the TV to either watch SD (composite AV2) or component for HD. Its better then having to go to setup but still not as good as the CC box with the passthough doing this automatically. Dish needs to provide passthrough support.

The other problem I have is my dish only has a two LNB when the installer said he put a 4 way. If I add more TV's in the future, I would probably have to pay more. So I may have the installer switch that out before I sign anything. I have to admit the dish service is pretty good but support is bad.

Originally posted by moonhawk
Has anyone noticed the guide info on E8--at least on my 921--has recently been saying "local off-air programming, for recorded timers on KOAT-7?

It didn't used to, and none of the other stations do.

I don't know what you mean by E8 but since the latest software download on the 921 (L212), channels 5 (PBS) and 7 (KOAT) DT stations don't show the guide information anymore. I believe that E* is aware of this.

Oops...

E8=E*=Dishnet

sorry

BTW....when was that last software download...Is there a way to find the date onscreen?

Originally posted by moonhawk
Oops...

E8=E*=Dishnet

sorry

BTW....when was that last software download...Is there a way to find the date onscreen?

I believe it was on March 1, 2005.

Come to think of it, the video on the coax out , which I run to two other rooms, has been jerky for about the same time span...wonder if that's part of the same download?

Originally posted by moonhawk
Has anyone noticed the guide info on E8--at least on my 921--has recently been saying "local off-air programming, for recorded timers on KOAT-7?

It didn't used to, and none of the other stations do. Probably the 212 software download...it was supposed to affect ota guides I believe...and it was supposed to cure the jitters... I never noticed any on my 921...but my software version is L212HECD-N , yours could be HEED...

Originally posted by adb
"13 (CBS) - 1080i, stereo - these guys care nothing about HD, and may later lease bandwidth. They are a worthless affiliate and I am very disappointed that I am required to rely on them for CBS programming. However, CBS has some good HD productions, and at least the image quality on KRQE is currently good".

Are they passing along all of the HD programing that the network has scheduled?


adb, KRQE-13 has not made a habit of pre-empting HD network programming, that I am aware. However, they have made a habit of pre-empting nationwide CBS Sports broadcasts and replacing them with infomercials.

Originally posted by IAM4UK
adb, KRQE-13 has not made a habit of pre-empting HD network programming, that I am aware. However, they have made a habit of pre-empting nationwide CBS Sports broadcasts and replacing them with infomercials.

That's to bad, I'm sure that doesn't make the sport fans very happy.

Not too happy with KRQE pre-empting prime-time programming with local sports especially new programs (non re-runs). At least I can record CSI when it was played at 1:35 am the next morning.

Philistine!!!!

I about chewed the butt off the poor gal at KRQE when she told me they WEREN'T runnung the Lobos game tonight.

I could care less about some crappy prime-time show--unless, of course it's one I like--but especially not if it airs later.

Live Lobe basketball is a million times better, even in SD, than some Hollywood-hyped hoo-hah...(Didja like that phrase?----:D) Especially when they have the best team they've had in years, and have a real shot at the big dance.

BTW, the games on ESPN...10 PM.

Other then the locals having to broadcast in digital, what other satelite stations currently offer HD content (like TNT, discovery, PBS)? I was wondering if they offer it but that dish or DTV just does not carry them? And what is the deal with TNT anyways. Why is their aspect ratio wacked out all the time?

Just talked upper level Dish guy today and he said that Dish probably will add more HD on the Voom stuff they bought. I am worried they will add more locals in HD. I want more satelites stations in HD since the 811 receiver does a good job grabbing the locals.. which are apparently mixed in quality for this area. Does anyone think that one day the whole thing may be HD? How many birds in the sky would that take.. Probably CC would have to go fiber to do that as well.

On DirecTV [we tend to use D*], Discovery HD is the sharpest thing on the planet. Usually, what we use to demo HD to friends and kin.

PBS, of course, is OTA; so, we use the local. BravoHD recently became UniversalHD and ESPN2HD is to join ESPNHD, though neither has enough HD sports to shake a stick at.

Incidentally, HDNet will be telecasting the US Men's Soccer Team, live from Albuquerque, on the 19th -- in HD.

Originally posted by samatha
Just talked upper level Dish guy today and he said that Dish probably will add more HD on the Voom stuff they bought. I am worried they will add more locals in HD.

The deal for Dish to purchase the Voom satellite seems to have hit a few snags. I suppose it could just be a negotiating tactic to bring the price down.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=515000

DirecTV does seem to have the more aggressive plan for adding HD. I'm still skeptical about them due to past delays involving satellite launches and channel additions.

Brian

Originally posted by bkzoller
The

DirecTV does seem to have the more aggressive plan for adding HD. I'm still skeptical about them due to past delays involving satellite launches and channel additions.

Brian And the fact that D* is running 3 channels per transponder instead of 2 and the Bitrate is down quite a bit... I have held off on getting D* hd for these concerns, I have D* sd and E* hd... would love to have Universal though. For Me Discovery HD and the Hdnets have the better PQ over Hbo and Sho, although CBS hd east and west in primetime is hard to beat...

No word on launch schedules moving forward; but, the first of the new birds for D* is built ahead of schedule.

I am wondering how Directv will upgrade our HDTV receiver by doiing free upgrades, or we have to buy the new MPEG-4 Directv receivers at special rate?

Maybe it's to early to tell?:cool:

Other than that not much on locals news on our digital stations in Albuquerque TV market.


3-12-05

One of the national-class dealers who is involved with the TiVo Community Forum simply says -- $14.95 shipping and handling -- when the birds and the hardware are in place and available. That would be comparable, not only to past D* practice; but, Murdoch's policies in the UK.

I ain't worried. Just waiting!

Has anyone in the New Mexico area who receives both locals(Albuquerque) and DNS received a card from D* saying to choose either locals or DNS?

DNS=?

Incidentally, HDNet will be telecasting the US Men's Soccer Team, live from Albuquerque, on the 19th -- in HD. [/B]

Would they black this out? What time is that going to air?

Originally posted by adb
Has anyone in the New Mexico area who receives both locals(Albuquerque) and DNS received a card from D* saying to choose either locals or DNS? Distant Network Service.... Yes I received mine about a month ago and chose to keep my distants... thats the reason I keep D*...

<snip>. . .thats the reason I keep D*...

Of course with E* I can have both locals and DNS. No need to choose.

.....G

My locals are with E*... :) and my HD too... 921, 6000u and a 501...

Originally posted by dfergie
Distant Network Service.... Yes I received mine about a month ago and chose to keep my distants... thats the reason I keep D*...

Thank you for your response. Did you get DNS after Nov. 1999? Just a question we are talking about on another thread.

Samatha -- HDNet doesn't black things out very often. They have it listed at their website as starting at 2 PM, the 19th. Re-run at 9 PM.

Edit: They carried the occasional MLS match, last season, as well.

Originally posted by adb
Thank you for your response. Did you get DNS after Nov. 1999? Just a question we are talking about on another thread. NP and Yup, I had Primetime 24 with BUD and when I migrated to D* I got the distants as I was used to them... got them way before 99. Was with D* for awhile when Ussb had part of and Direct had the other. (although my provider was a local ... pvt who sold out to the dreaded Pegasus...) In retrospect I should have gotten D* hd, before the end of the year just in case...

I have been switching back and forth between ESPN HD's ACC basketball tournment and 13.1's SEC basketball tournment today. Although the CBS verison shows up as "HD" on my set the signal is pitiful compared to the ESPN signal. I dread the NCAA's if this is the quality we will get.

Santa Fe, the CBS coverage of the SEC tourney championship was not actually in HD. When they cover the NCAA tourney, it will look much better (as will my Kentucky Wildcats!).

So, my wife is all excited to watch Law & Order SVU in Hi-Def tonight - not!! What is up with KOB? Are they back to not broadcasting in HD again?

New Mexico DTV User Group Meeting
(Come Rain or Snow!)

The New Mexico DTV User Group will hold its March meeting this Thursday (3/17) at
7:00 PM at the KNME-TV studios, located at 1130 University Blvd. KNME is located on University about 1 block north of intersection of Lomas and University Blvd.

This month's topic is "Digital Television for Rural New Mexico". Jim Gale will make a presentation about KNME's latest - Low Power Digital Transmitters: located on San Antonio Mountain (Tres Piedras area) and at Taos. These were the first digital translators commissioned in New Mexico (we only have 48 more to go).

25% of KNME's viewers watch us through a low power digital transmitter located mountain tops. We are committed to providing them with digital service too, so that they are not left behind in the Digital Divide.

Also, there will be a Power Point presentation with maps and exhibits from KNME's recent federal grant application to the Department of Commerce to fund new High Definition digital services for Los Alamos/Espanola Valley, Socorro, Cimarron, Cuba, Farmington, and Aztec.

On the "RF Receive Systems" front, there will also be a follow-up discussion of the famous Winegard "Square Shooter" antenna, with a short Power Point presentation prepared by Gay Dybwad, who has some interesting test data from three antenna trials at his location which is totally terrain blocked.

There will also have a national and local market update.

We appreciate all your support as viewers and HD enthusiasts. Hope to see you at the meeting Thursday night!

Jim Gale
KNME-TV
Director of Engineering

Originally posted by moonhawk
How? Don't think Dish gives waivers for around Albq.

not talking about the little dictatorship dish where you are told what you can have access to (and pay up the ... for stuff you are allowed to receive).

I'm talking about the big beauty democracy dish where you have lots of freedom.

What is the general consensus among the Albuquerque viewers about the quality of the HD broadcasts from the local stations?

Mediocre.

The exception being KNME. The Fox folks do a decent, albeit inconsistent, job with national feeds.

Originally posted by adb
What is the general consensus among the Albuquerque viewers about the quality of the HD broadcasts from the local stations?

KASA (Fox) - Typically good quality image, very good 5.1 sound
KOB (NBC) - Although they were absolutely worthless until this year, they have high-quality image and sound now
KNME (PBS) - Stellar image
KOAT (ABC) - Very good image and sound
KRQE (CBS) - Very good image, lousy 2.0 sound; very bad attitude from station management about providing HD--they may lease bandwidth later
WB - Decent quality, but limited content
UPN - Worse than worthless; leasing bandwidth to the evil USDTV, so that they are incapable of providing the HD feed

Let's be nice to KRQE, at least until the "Big Dance" is over....

I want my Lobos in HD.

Go Lobos!

So what is up with KRQE? The Lobo's game is in HD but the previous game today at the same site (Nashville) was not. Is KRQE choosing which games to show us in HD? If so why not show all if the network is making them available?

Could be that CBS is not sending an HD feed to KRQE.

From the same venue? Both games are at Nashville. Why would CBS suddenly decide to send an HD feed 30 minutes after the first game? The cameras are sure there. I noticed that KRQE is showing the Conn/UCF game in HD now. Before the Lobo game started that game was on briefly - not in HD. I strongly suspect this is a local decision but I don't understand why.

The dolts probably would have to pay more -- or use 17 watts more electricity -- or bring in someone who may have gone skiing?

Soccer fans in the US learned -- after they were over -- the entire Euro Championship 2004 tournament was available in HD -- and no one in the US would carry it!

Our local NCAA coverage continues to not be in HD although CBS is covering it in HD. It probably has something to do with local advertising. But as far as I'm concerned as a national advertiser KRQE has its hands in my pocket. I refuse to watch, as alot of others do, the poor subsitute to HD that is being offered. I have HDTV's mainly for sports but I live in the wrong state.

I don't know what the deal with KRQE is... for all I know, it may be out of their hands which HDTV feed they transmit.

I know CBS network has 2-3 HDTV feeds going out to affiliates and I'm sure CBS Network has the final say in which feed each affiliate is to take so it may be a CBS decision that cannot be disputed by any affiliate.

REMINDER... 4pm ET ;)

HDNET is showing a live sports event from Albuquerque tomorrow!

SOCCER: U.S. Men's National Team vs. Honduras Men's National Team

(Edited to add "reminder..." as I forgot i read it here and not somewhere else that the game would be televised in hd).

2 PM. It's already in the TiVo!

I called KRQE THREE times up to the game...nearly had a full blown panic attack...What idiots.

At least they got it together in time for the game.

Hey guys, how the meetings at KNME goes and what the latest news on our local stations?

Any news on KNMD-DT about upgrading the TX power on channel 9?

3-20-05

We talked about DTV reception in "impossible" areas with various types of UHF antennas, saw an overview of the new KNME translators that are going in in Espanola/Los Alamos, Farmington, Cuba and more. Did the studio tour with Jim Gale and bitched about USDTV.

.....G

Out evil demon, run out of $$$$ now!!!

Originally posted by guruka
.....and bitched about USDTV.

.....G

I hope so sooner the better!!:p :p :p

USDTV sucks big time, and please bring my Star Trek Enterprise in HDTV! "only if they survive to the next season.:( "

3-22-05

Originally posted by N5XZS
I hope so sooner the better!!:p :p :p

USDTV sucks big time, and please bring my Star Trek Enterprise in HDTV! "only if they survive to the next season.:( "

3-22-05

USDTV has stalled to only 3 markets, ABQ, Las Vegas, and Salt Lake. With only about 10,000 subs in all. They were to have plans to expand into another 20 or so markets by the end of last year. That never came to fruition. Talks with Emmis broke down last fall, and so far Emmis has had no takers willing to put down cash to try the venture with them. USDTV has stopped all advertising. So far every kind of wireless competitor to cable has failed with the exception of DBS, never getting more then 1-2% market penetration. You need at least 10% to try and stay viable. That's the market both USDTV and Emmis pinned their hopes on getting. Figuring with that you can still make a pretty penny. But with those small margins, there is only room for one.

The next big fight in broadcasting will be to add value to their signal with cable companies. Right now most don't get a penny for a single sub on a cable system. Broadcasters want the same action that cable networks have been getting all this time. Yet cable companies are not willing to pay for that, while 99 out of the top 100 shows on TV are broadcast. DBS did not take off tell they got local into local. That was always cables major advantage and they advertised it too back then. Remember? After all, DBS is paying locals for their signal now. So I think broadcasters have a much better shot at it then they did 10 years ago when the 1996 Telco law came into effect. Back then all the major players, CBS/Viacom, NBC, ABC/Disney, FOX all used their leverage in large markets with major cable co.'s to launch new cable networks like , MSNBC, Toon, E!, ESPN2, MTV2, FOX News etc.. In exchange for carriage of local owned and operated stations. Smaller broadcasters got shut out; yes even Sinclair who owned far fewer stations then.

You can't blame broadcasters for trying; there is almost no real business model for digital. Other then wait for Analog to go away and have digital pay your bills like Analog has. But in the interim, it just costs a lot of money to operate, you can't charge advertisers more for it, they don't see value in pretty pictures. Unless everyone is watching that picture, but less then 10% are so far. Now that the FCC has come down with its multicast rule for cable (only primary DTV video service carried) any chance for broadcasters to try their hand in localism, news, weather, etc.. Or some innovation like the next big app in TV is pretty much doomed. Like color was in the 50s & 60's, but you don't know what the next app will be. Who knew Word processing, e-mail or the internet would be THE application for computers. Broadcasters are looking for anything, anything that will pay the bills and get viewers. I know what everyone around here thinks it should be. After all, it was broadcasters who went to congress and asked for spectrum for HDTV and told them it was the panacea and the only way to keep broadcasting afloat for the next 50 years. They just didn't think it would actually work and congress would hold them to it. Now that congress sees money to be made by selling off spectrum. They dug this hole, and now they are going to bury themselves.

Informal survey. If everyone around here is a big HDTV nut and supporter, and who isn't? How many have gotten Voom HDTV satellite service for their HDTV? After all it's got the MOST HD available via satellite. While that's true, it's also true that it's been a big drain on Cablevision financially. They are trying to pedal it off or shut it down soon. Charles Dolan CEO of Cablevision is trying to save it and is willing to sell his own stock to keep it afloat tell he can find a buyer. Most doubt it will survive, with possibly Dish picking up the satellite but dropping the service. It's too bad, because it's unique. If this kind of service can't survive how worth it is HDTV to the general public? I assume Dolan was counting on early adopters to keep Voom alive in the early years and be well positioned when HDTV went mainstream. Maybe the KNME user group people could explain why or why not they chose Voom. Okay, rant it over.

Well, I came to HDTV via the TiVo side of things. Time-shifting, there wasn't any reason to buy into a service that didn't offer it.

I've been a DBS customer, D*>Pegasus>D* since 3 months after DirecTV hit the airwaves. As much as we grunt and groan about picture quality, I waited and watched for reports on VOOM -- and it was mediocre. Plus, in the really early-adopter stage, I went to see it demo'd at the ONLY local retailer [remember] -- Sears. They couldn't sell a lifeboat to a drowning man. But, they had the exclusive for the 1st year.

I'd differ with you a couple of ways about how and when DBS "took off" and about the importance [or unimportance] of who originates which shows.

DirecTV faced the task of building while having a face-to-face competitor from day 1. For all the wrong reasons, DISH was still there, dividing market share in a brand-new medium. The growth numbers for each have been steady, however, taking away market share from broadcast and cable -- for the right reasons. Mostly, less greedy. A little bit. Don't forget, DirecTV wasn't exactly helped by the fat thumb of Hughes and GM and their accounting practices. These guys can always show a loss -- while selling a profitable business to a shrewd businessman like Murdoch.

You can't stay in business for over a decade if you're really unprofitable. And both DBS have done so.

Sure, 100 of 100 most popular programs originate with broadcast networks. Networks who've seen their market share continue to diminish as consistently after the advent of DBS as before. The watchers are going somewhere. Folks still refer to CNN and MSNBC as "cable channels"; but, it's been the boost from DBS that brought them to stature [and a wider market] in the US.

I doubt if DirecTV is any more likely than Sky to originate broadcasts except for guaranteed profit-makers like sports. And Murdoch now owns Fox, anyway. The Wasteland is still the Wasteland as far as I'm concerned.

[Yes, this is a separate rant]

I went a decade without wasting time trying to watch the locals/networks. Though I had half the Nets [waivers] on D*, I don't recall them ever getting more than 1-2% of our eyeball time. It was -- and is -- movies and sports, documentaries and news that get virtually all our attention. I realize that's not the case for the majority of folks who watch TV in our land; but, then, that's why there are "early adopters" and everyone else.

A certain number need the "ooh and ahh" factor in their lives, They need trophy TV's just like trophy homes, cars and wives. Most early adopters want better access to better product -- whether it's TV or cameras or cars or computers. Going "faster" and "handling better" really does feel good. I still skip the crap that passes for entertainment. That includes network news.

And really Local TV? With the exception of PBS stations, it's not even up to the level of Wasteland. 75% of so-called daytime programming isn't even soaps, anymore -- it's infomercials. That's not even worth composting. I watch the locals when it snows -- to see if the forecast comes up to what I get online -- and to see Steve Stucker's dogs.

Otherwise, KNME rules -- and needs more content. I have all their programming memorized. Glad to see some of the product being sold to Discovery Channel. PBS could use the bucks.

Well, PBS isn't worth a bucket of warm spit to me...

All I want is mainly locals, which I can't receive well here in analog, plus ESPN and Fox News.

Thus, E*, which provides me with the "cable" content I want, a really good OTA HD tuner, and HD PVR.

Don't need VOOM for anything, because their content is not interesting to me.

I want what I want, and I want it in HD.....:D

YMMV

Dude, you mean you can't enjoy, say "The Desert Speaks"?

Frontline and Nova are usually pretty good and there are new episodes more often than the other programming. TitanTV doesn't list them as HD, but they are widescreen. Does anyone know if those shows are upconverted from 480p?

Brian

Originally posted by edwardacampbell
Dude, you mean you can't enjoy, say "The Desert Speaks"?

Ahhh...maybe once in awhile....:)

But I'd much rather see "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" back....in HD. :D

Just goes to show people have varied taste I guess. Our teenage daughters like a lot of the WB shows. I liked PBS-HD so much I made a $75 donation this year. My favorites are Smartravels, Soundstage, Desert Speaks, Chefs A Field, Smart Gardening and anything with eye candy like the Fiesta in the Sky and Tim Janis - Beautiful America.

Why no true HD coverage of the Albuquerque NCAA BB games by Channel 13.1? According to this http://www.hdsportsguide.com/ it is being shown in HD.

Any suggestions on how to complain effectively?

Call the station and tell them to pull the switch.

Unbelievable customer service. They just hang up on me. I am a senior member of management at a major advertiser who believes they are buying national HD coverage. Feeding the truth back is the best ammo that I can think of.

The other game is closer but... I'm watching this one on CBSHD east... both have good pq...I guess there are perks not having any ota...

This is very sad that our local station KRQE-DT do not care about TV viewers wanting to see live HDTV sports coverages!:mad:

At least I am one of few peoples the have grandfathered broadcast waiver that should have been open to everyones regardless receptions good or bad in your areas.

We should have the right to get any out of town TV markets as long we can afford to pay for the services that we want.

There should be no copyright censorships!! "Meaning copyright laws has going too far overboard IMHO"

They should have fair use copyright to everyones as long they have legal ways to get it by paying to get out of town TV markets via DBS services.

But sadly NAB and the local TV owners don't simply care and they like to control you what to see on TV!:rolleyes:

KRQE-DT and KASY-DT deserve a big F- on a report card!

3-24-05

Why wouldn't they show the game in HD if available? Is there some cost savings of not showing something in HD?

When I saw it wasn't in HD, I flipped the channel over to Jake in Progress.

Hello McFly anybody home.............

I've never heard a really convincing argument. The inference is -- that HD viewers are such a small number that it isn't worth the comparatively minor expense.

1. These dolts never have cared for the opinions of early adopters.

2. These are "investments" managed in the All-American tradition of short-term rules. These morons think "long-term" describes four quarters away!

But, then, that's describing the same folks whose response to declining market share and revenues -- is to raise advertising charges. When I was involved in marketing and advertising decisions [and working full time for a national company], I always recommended cable and satellite advertising over OTA TV, every time. There can be significant benefits, locally, to OTA. But, in most urban areas, the cable systems still offer noticeably better ad dollar vs. returns ratios.

As far as the owners of "local" network TV stations are concerned -- we're commodity consumers, that's all.

KRQE is worse than worthless. They did not provide the HD feed from CBS for Thursday's NCAA tournament coverage, and they assured me they will not provide the HD feed Friday. There is no reason they are unable to do so, they simply will not.

I subscribed to the D* "Mega March Madness" package to get content that is not available locally, but the HD feed for the Albuquerque region was blacked out. This was based on the assumption that KRQE should provide that content, but they did not; therefore, the blackout rules were misapplied.

In other words, we have another case where we are required to rely exclusively on KRQE for certain content, but they are not required to carry it. This must change.

You know, one of the things the dolt in charge of the FCC blathers about -- is that he really can be reached by email. He's "modern".

So, go ahead -- do what I do -- fire off an email to the FCC, to our Congressional flunkies, etc.. The fact is, sooner or later, there may be enough accumulated pressure to bring these clowns, kicking and screaming, up to the 21st Century.

Hopefully, competition may help us out a wee bit. Advertising sales is still one of the few parts of the commerce engine that may catch their attention. I know I've already convinced a few local firms to advertise elsewhere.

Originally posted by edwardacampbell
So, go ahead -- do what I do -- fire off an email to the FCC, to our Congressional flunkies, etc.. The fact is, sooner or later, there may be enough accumulated pressure to bring these clowns, kicking and screaming, up to the 21st Century.

Hopefully, competition may help us out a wee bit. Advertising sales is still one of the few parts of the commerce engine that may catch their attention. I know I've already convinced a few local firms to advertise elsewhere.

Regrettably, KRQE has done nothing illegal. However, you have a great point on advertising. Companies are paying under the assumption that this programming is being carried in hi-definition. Don't tell me that networks pick and choose what to broadcast in hd. It all dovetails with who the early adopters are, and what are demographics are (intelligent, tech-saavy, increased disposable income). The only way to influence these people is through their pocketbook!!! Harris Corporation financed the Tourney being covered in hd, and KRQE is helping CBS steal from them. So, I wrote a letter to Harris Corporation and of course, cc'd Emmis, CBS, CBS Sports, and KRQE. I encourage others to do the same!

"Dear Mr. Wensinger,

"I wanted to thank you for Harris Corporation's partnership with CBS and the NCAA to provide Hi Definition coverage of the 2005 NCAA Basketball Championship. I am sure this a partnership that has cost your company time and other resources to make happen for the early adopters of hi-definition television.

However, in that same context, I thought you would like to be aware that CBS may be misleading you on the "bang for your buck" that your firm is receiving. While I cannot attest to other markets, I know, for a fact, that the CBS affiliate in Albuquerque, NM (the only available CBS affiliate for approximately one and a half to two million residents of New Mexico/Eastern Arizona/Southwestern Colorado) is electing not to carry your sponsored coverage.

While the station will not provide an official answer, unofficially, viewers who have called and complained have been told that KRQE is choosing not to carry the coverage, more specifically, it is not a result of technical issues, merely station-management apathy. Furthermore, they don't hesitate to let viewers know that they will continue to not provide this programming your company is helping to pay for.

Clearly, your company's future growth hinges on the continue growth of this burgeoning technology, I am sure you, like many early adopters in New Mexico, are appalled at this station's attempts to squelch digital transmission, and hi-defintion's growth as a television format.

Thank you again for your sponsorship, although I am not personally able to experience it.

As a side note, contacting CBS HQ to try to get ANY email address from anyone in sales is next to impossible. They keep any form of contact tightly guarded. However, by browsing CBS and CBS Sports.com, I may have found CBS Sports President Sean McManus' email address. I will update this post if it proves correct (or at least does not bounce back).

Right on, Jeffrey!

Does the dot crawl on KRQE-DT bother anyone else? I notice it mostly on the overlay graphics, such as the logos during the NCAA pregame coverage and during the local news. It seems like they are putting composite video through an inexpensive comb filter before it goes into the scaler for 1080i conversion. I don't notice it on other channels and it is not a problem on KRQE received over DirecTV.

Brian

Just heard on the Krqe news that the Arizona Rockies and the Colorado Diamondbacks game was stopped because of bees yesterday... :) Talk about your accurate reporting...

it really was stopped because of a swarm up bees lol

Tonight's KRQE's bb coverage is in HD.

Kind of long, but I thought I would share with you KRQE's response (abridged, as he defends the station on some things I did not challenge him on, such as digital translators in Farmington, or time-shifting. My beef was strictly that I could not get NCAA Tourney games in HD on Thurs night). I have put in my "understandings" in as well, so if you see a perception I have that is glaringly inaccurate, please say something.

<QUOTE>
We air sporting events that the network provides in HD all the time, however during the NCAA tournament, when the network has so many HD sources (and some games not available in HD at all from the source), we cannot switch from one game to another with the network when the jump from analog to HD venue. (COMMENT - Both games Thursday were in hd, right?)

During the NCAA tournament, when CBS is providing a primary game to KRQE that is not in HD, we have no provisions at present, to separate two streams of programming between our analog signal and our digital signal. We are currently in the process of building an entire new digital control room to enable us to add capabilities to so so, but for the time being, we are limited by our present technical setup. This new control room is budgeted for over 1.5 million dollars, taking virtually all of the capital investment money available to us for the coming year.

<SNIP - Explaining how KRQE really cares, like building digital tanslators in Farmington> COMMENT - Don't they have to meet the 06 dtv requirement?

We did not "choose" not to carry the High Definition broadcast of the NCAA tournament. In fact, we have broadcast some games in HD during the early part of the tournament when we were able. We did this when CBS provided the game on our regular network system. When games are available in HD on differing transponders from our normal setup, we do not have the capability to split our system and handle these transponders through out master control. For instance, this coming Saturday and Sunday, all of the games will be broadcast in HD on KRQE-DT, since the network will only be providing one source for the games, not several (Comment - wait, wait, I thought the obstacle was back and forth from hd to sd - I am getting 2 different excuses here).

<SNIP - No digital translators, but, as mentioned, they are working on it, with a timeline of at least a year>
<SNIP - Explaining distribution of NCAA Tourney feeds - which relates to issues with some hd some sd games, as mentioned above, but both sites were hd Thursday, so who cares?>

Other than those two games, we take what the network sends us. Since not all of the venues in the opening round were HD capable sites, we could not switch between the analog game and the HD games to keep up with CBS when they start jumping around from site to site, due to our present Master Control System. Our station's present limitations only allow us to send one signal to both our analog and digital (and HD) paths, so we had to upconvert the one signal. While CBS during the NCAA Tournament has given permission to stations to lock onto an HD game for digital, we can't do that for now. Perhaps next year we will be able to do so, but not this year.

Finally, we have certainly never said that, "they don't hesitate to let viewers know that they will continue to not provide this programming your company is helping to pay for" as your letter states. We can only provide what we have the technical ability to do at present. <COMMENT - who did IAM4UK talk to at the station who told us they wouldn't have coverage Friday either?>

<SNIP - Poor us, we have spent a lot of money to upgrade to digital>

Advertisers are not yet paying a premium for HD, or even the digital signal quality. We are not seeing ratings increase for programs which are available in High Definition. <COMMENT - Somebody tell Harris Corporation, as they paid to sponsor the addition of 27 more games in hd this year, as posted in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=509515) .
<END QUOTE>

Interesting that they told a viewer Thursday that there would be no coverage Friday, and suddenly, voila, there is. I would like to say it was a result of my efforts by squeezing them through the advertisers (not out of arrogance, but so we have a model for the future), but who knows?

Having been on both sides of this kind of question, my only comment is that dude who responded is only focused on providing excuses -- and management is only focused on providing excuses. Nothing shows me any understanding of planning beyond the next quarter or the next fiscal year.

I realize that's not unusual in the US economy; but, it really doesn't have to be that way. Folks who sit back and take potshots at "furriners" who sometimes take a deliberate 5 or 10 or 15 years to manage a signifiant portion of their economy have no understanding of economics or history. Having worked for decades with importers dealing with both European and Asian economic models -- I appreciate folks who look beyond the end of their noses.

I apologize for waxing philosophical; but, the same old excuses don't move me.

I don't know if you asked but I notice he (she?) didn't address the problem of KRQE forgetting to switch back to HD after a commercial break. That faux pas has nothing to do with CBS feeds or anything; it's just incompetence (or not caring).

Interesting that what was impossible to do on Thursday without a million dollar expenditure was possible on Friday. But lets not look a gift horse in the mouth..

A view from afar.

Cutting the KRQE guy a smidgen of slack, it sounds like they have multiple CBS feeds, but their HD equipment is hardwired to the main CBS feed. If the game of local interest happens to be of secondary importance to the rest of the country (CBS's choice) and is sent to them via a secondary feed, they cannot re-route it to their HD equipment. They probably have little choice whether to telecast the primary CBS feed that they can broadcast in HD or to show the local interest feed from a secondary source that cannot be routed through their HD equipment. Thusly they are building a $1.5M studio that will let them switch these secondary feeds through their HD equipment.

I could be wrong, but that is what I read from the quotes.

Jim Smith
Lubbock, TX.

BTW - our local CBS and ABC affiliates are both still broadcasting at less than 1000 watts and neither do ANY HD content. We are thankful for NBC. PBS and FOX who all do a great job with their HD. Keep the pressure on man.

Originally posted by Jim5506
A view from afar.

If the game of local interest happens to be of secondary importance to the rest of the country (CBS's choice) and is sent to them via a secondary feed, they cannot re-route it to their HD equipment. They probably have little choice whether to telecast the primary CBS feed that they can broadcast in HD or to show the local interest feed from a secondary source that cannot be routed through their HD equipment.
I could be wrong, but that is what I read from the quotes.

Jim Smith
Lubbock, TX.



This is the best explanation I've heard so far. KRQE decided to opt with a secondary feed and stay with Texas Tech, instead of CBS's primary choice. If they had stayed with the primary feed, you would have seen some of the game in HD when CBS switched to it near the end. As could be seen on CBS NY.

In answer to an earlier query on this thread, the person with whom I spoke at KRQE on Thursday was just a "newsroom" guy. He was certain, however, that the program director had declared they would not show Friday's games in HD.

I spoke to that program director on Friday morning. I asked him why I could not use the alternate means for which I had paid to see programming my local affiliate would not carry (HD feed on 98 or 741 as part of "Mega March Madness" on DirecTV). He said they would never consider waivers for anyone in their viewing area, and they could prevent us from getting CBS content if they chose. He said they would not carry Friday night's games in HD because it was not technically possible for KRQE to do this without a 1.5M dollar upgrade.

I spoke to the general manager next. He said the same things. He clearly resented that some viewers expected to be able to see CBS HD content, one way or the other.

I next spoke to CBS in New York. The affiliate relations guru sounded like a defeated man. He said that they had no real control over the affiliates, had no ownership in KRQE specifically, and that it would be possible for an affiliate to not only refuse to provide CBS content, but also block all other means to receive it (D*, etc.). I said this was sad. I asked for someone higher in their management chain to contact me about the issue. A very knowledgeable lady called me soon thereafter and informed me that the situation was not so bleak as I had heard. She said there should be no reason that KRQE could not provide the HD feed, and that they should allow the alternate delivery if they would not provide the content. She told me she would call KRQE and advise them of these things.

Friday night, KRQE provided the HD feed.

Thank you KRQE, for coming around. I'm still not satisfied that you are ready to update your business model for DTV, but I think you're learning more a little at a time.

IAM4UK

Congratulations, your hard work paid off.

Well, I had convinced the boss to get an HD tuner in time for Super Bowl, this year; so, he's already learned who cares about being up-to-date in their attitude towards consumers.

This morning, our newest commercial debuted on KASA instead of KRQE.

And since I've been harassing D* about SHVERA -- in the same vein -- this is the letter I emailed, this morning, to our Congressional delegation:

“December 2004 changes in the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act (SHVERA) prohibits DIRECTV from providing New York or Los Angeles TV stations in areas where we carry local channels. Because we offer local channels in your area, we cannot provide you with non-local network feeds.”

That’s the answer we get from satellite providers like DirecTV or DISH when complaining about access to high definition TV broadcasts from the major networks. Unfortunately, local channels have been and continue to be inconsistent about passing along Hi-Def telecasts. Some of the Albuquerque channels -- most notably KRQE -- are negotiating the lease of their allotted bandwidth to other vendors who won’t be providing Hi-Def telecasts, either. That, simply, is an abuse of public trust.

SHVERA was written and modified with no conception or consideration of local broadcasters who don’t care to enter the 21st Century of broadcast television. Consumers, as usual, are getting the short end of the stick. This isn’t limited to Albuquerque. It’s happening, nationwide.

It seems to me this is an issue that can be resolved, quickly and easily, by allowing that old American concept -- freedom of choice. Our satellite providers have already done their part. Anyone receiving HD telecasts via satellite can have hardware to receive satellite or over-the-air [OTA] transmission. SHVERA takes away our option to receive national feeds.

The quality of an OTA telecast is, consistently, better than the compressed satellite feed. Any reasonable consumer will choose the OTA telecast -- when it’s available. But, we should have the freedom to choose the national HD feed when our local channels have decided not to offer us that choice.

How about you do something about this?

Despite recent expressions of grumpiness on my part about posters whining about their "rights" being denied, let me say I applaud you guys' efforts to increase our "choices" by appealing both to the marketing and legislative aspects of the issue.

Well done. ...:)

Today's (Sunday) NCAA game is not currently in HD. Is KRQE punishing us now that the "impossible" story has been exposed? I called them and was told by a news guy that no one was in there to turn on the HD.

What's the number???

Local: (505) 243-2285

Toll Free: (800) 283-4227

So at 1:50pm someone at KRQE turned on the HD switch for the basketball game. The person in the news room did promise to take care of it if he could.

I called, too. About 10 minutes ago.

gibby, I think every little bit of pressure helps. They aren't exactly customer friendly in thier HD thinking.

Well, KRQE provided fairly consistent HD coverage of the regional finals. Without intending to go astray of the thread topic, may I simply make this comment on the quality of competition in those games: WOW!

Yes it appears CBS got their monies worth when they paid $420 million for the rights to the games as did most of the advertisers who purchased time. Watching the hard work, determination and attention to detail of the players and coaches could not help but put me in a mind to contrast them with the KRQE team.

Therein lays the Mysteries of KRQE.
1. In e-mails and phone conversations with several viewer/customers KRQE management maintained that enormous costs would have to be expended to be able to show Thursday’s and Friday’s NCAA games in HD. Some were told $1 million and others told $1.5 million. Yet after many complaints to KRQE and CBS Friday’s games were properly shown as were Saturday’s games.
2. KRQE management insists that very few viewers own HDTVS. Most of the people in my zip code have them and after shelling out $5-$15 thousand apiece want to use them and are vocal about doing so. They also are in a demographic that has some significant purchasing power as well as influential jobs in large companies that buy advertising; all factors KRQE overlook.
3. KRQE management keeps referring to large expenses with no gain to update their control room. These are capital expenditures that add to the equity value of the company and are depreciated over time. Eventually to comply with FCC requirements and to keep up with the competition they must make these capital improvements.
4. KRQE failed to carry the first game on Sunday in HD until viewers called to protest. Because of no other phone option the calls had to go to the news room staff who insisted that no engineering staff where on duty. Is it possible to run a TV station with no technical staff on site? To their credit they did “flip the switch” for the second half and the following game.
5. Is there no management plan at the station to coordinate CBS HD programming with KRQE’S ability to show it?
6. Since they do carry the CBS prime time programming in HD does that mean that someone has to manually be available to make the control room changes?

Most importantly, how do we as viewers and customers bring KRQE management on board with the delights of HDTV viewing? We need them with us not against us.

Minor news update........

KOB-DT has filed to FCC for changes in transmit power and the antenna hight.

They will reduce the TX power 290 KW to 270 KW ERP and and make antenna go up little higher to get more ranges covereges.

It's up to FCC to approve it or not based on the CP file.

That's the news!!:D

4-1-05

Originally posted by N5XZS
Minor news update........

KOB-DT has filed to FCC for changes in transmit power and the antenna hight.

They will reduce the TX power 290 KW to 270 KW ERP and and make antenna go up little higher to get more ranges covereges.

It's up to FCC to approve it or not based on the CP file.

That's the news!!:D

4-1-05

How much higher are they going to raise it and what is the expected increase in range?

Just go to the FCC's website listed here.......

Http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/prod/cdbs/pupacc/prod/app_sear.htm

Can't to get the link to work just go to www.fcc.gov and go from there.


Now go to service: and scroll down to Digital TV and click on it and go to state and type NM and then click on superseded applications and finally click on search once you get there just click on KOB-TV 4-1-05 this will show you the information on KOB-DT.;)

Hopes that helps:D

Have fun reading it!!

4-1-05

I would like to see HD Closed Captions (CC) on WB (19.1) and now I've lost ABC (7.1) even on the Dish 811. The Dish 921 does not do 720p captions correctly if at all, thus no ABC or FOX (2.1) OTA but the 811 does.

I have line of sight of the towers with binoculars -- 49 miles. Captions on CBS (13.1) on the 921 are often delayed 4 seconds but I do not attribute that to the station.

Have we completely lost Nightly Business Report (NBR) starting yesterday?

Really quite in here lately

Well, anyone else notice no KOB, last night?

I was wandering around, looking to see if any TV station had noticed that Comcast's entire US broadband network was down -- probably around 9 PM when I looked -- and there wasn't any KOB, 4-1.

I presume it was one of the usual gramlins.

I saw Joey in HD last night and also Leno. Maybe it was Comcast's problem.

Well, I looked for it OTA. I wouldn't touch Comcast cable with someone else's 10-foot pole. Besides, they don't even offer HD, up here.

But, I only looked for a minute or two.

Comcast is such a trip. Their website lists a nation-wide outage for Internet Access -- that lasted almost 12 hours -- and no explanation, no nuttin'.

Yea I lost KOB last night also via OTA. Was back on this morning though

I can receive the two digital KNME Albuquerque channels located at UHF channel 35 on all three of my HD digital receivers. I have been told KNME transmits 4 additional digital channels on VHF channel 9, is this correct? I have not been able to find these four channels using any of my digital receivers. Since I live near the Four Hills area my VHF reception is sub-standard, that might explain it.
Comments?

Thanks Very In Advance
Regards
Ron

We live near Wyoming & Paseo Del Norte and pick up Digital 9-1, 9-2, 9-3 and 9-4 on our Dish 811's via UHF antennas.

Hello Rrolsbe,

Since I am also live in Four Hills, and can't get KNMD-DT channel 9 as well too.

Because they are running at low power "200 watts ERP" at this time.

Reason why?

Not to overload KHCF's digital channel 10 running at 1.7 KW ERP till at time they move to Sandia Crest Mountain and then KNMD-DT can upgrade their transmitter power to 3.7 KW ERP give or take if I remember right on the TX power outputs.

But I think the KCHF-TV channel 11 is a church and snake oil health pill programings station is going to drag their feet for sometime, so it's like a chess game to me IMHO.:rolleyes:


4-8-05

Any of y'all who get your main feed from DirecTV -- and want to check on progress of the next satellite launch -- http://www.navigon.net/sl/

The bird just erected and guidance/launch control ship ready to follow-on. I think D* will probably show this one live, like the last shoot. Otherwise, you can follow the webcast.

Thanks JDMART for your post.

When you manally add a DTV channel using your 811 what channel do you enter?

IE Digital Channels 5-1 & 5-1 are found on UHF 35, where are digital channels 9-1 though 9-4 located?

Regards
Ron

Hello Ron,

KNMD-DT is the real channel 9 VHF and that means no remapping channel. Also remember this station is running very low power at 200 watts ERP at this time.

Good luck getting that station!!;)

4-10-05

Originally posted by rrolsbe
Thanks JDMART for your post.

When you manally add a DTV channel using your 811 what channel do you enter?

IE Digital Channels 5-1 & 5-1 are found on UHF 35, where are digital channels 9-1 though 9-4 located?

Regards
Ron

Sorry, don't know; they were added on a "Digital Scan."
You may have to call the station unless someone else on this forum knows. I'll let you know if I find out.

To change channels directly on the 811 I enter 0091, 0092, 0093 & 0094
(0051 & 0052 for 5.1 & 5.2).

What's with FOX. I was watching "24" on FOX last night over-the-air over their digital channel and several times I got "acquiring signal" from my Dish receiver. Is their signal not that good or is something wrong with it?

What's with FOX. I was watching "24" on FOX last night over-the-air over their digital channel and several times I got "acquiring signal" from my Dish receiver. Is their signal not that good or is something wrong with it?

It happened to me too on my Sammy 151. I didn't wait for it to say "No Signal" before switching to Comcast Channel 2. When I saw the signal was back, I switched back to the Sammy. But it dropped out a couple more times.

I see the same thing on my 921 each week for the past several weeks now. Always during 24. Always during a heart pounding part. Another reason to keep your locals with Dish. At least I can quickly switch over. It only seems to last around 10-15 seconds but its anoying as hell.

Originally posted by spawnman
Really quite in here lately

If you get bored, lonely, etc......

http://forum.adnm.com/index.php

It's for New Mexico types.......

Things seem pretty quiet over there, as well.

Ok, heres one.

Anybody in NM have a Dish 942 yet? If so how is it working as far as OTA?

Originally posted by bkzoller
Things seem pretty quiet over there, as well.

Hey, you know what they say, don't complain about the comida if you didn't bring the cerveza ;)

Forums aren't a spectator sport!

Is there a email or phone contact for FOX? We should complain about their digital signal dropping out.

Yes,

I just fired off an email to signal@kasa.com

Anyone else seeing this lets let them know.

Originally posted by fjerina
Is there a email or phone contact for FOX? We should complain about their digital signal dropping out.

ibglowin, I sent an email just now to them. Maybe if they get enough emails they may try to do something about the situation.

Sounds good,

FWIW, this is not the first time this has happened with 24. If I recall, the season before this one did this as well. Almost like timed clockwork. Perhaps its not KASA's problem but something going on with the national feed into them.....

Hopefully we will get some sort of response.

I remember reading somewhere that the HD version of Enterprise on UPN had a glitch during every episode. Someone commented that UPN was doing that to prevent any perfect copies of the HD version from being distributed on the Internet. It sounded a bit like a conspiracy theory, but the same pattern seems to be happening with Fox's 24. Unfortunately, that strategy interferes with actually being able to watch the show, if that is being done intentionally.

Brian

Brian -- I'm surrounded with work, this morning [which is not too bad for a semi-retired old fart]; so, I'm not going searching.

Any idea if Enterprise will actually be HD OTA, this weekend?

Originally posted by edwardacampbell
Brian -- I'm surrounded with work, this morning [which is not too bad for a semi-retired old fart]; so, I'm not going searching.

Any idea if Enterprise will actually be HD OTA, this weekend?

I would say it is highly unlikely on KASY-DT, for as long as they have so many USDTV channels. I think the Enterprise comments that I mentioned earlier were in the HDTV Programming section of this forum several months ago.

Edit: TitanTV shows Enterprise as letterbox for the next two weekends.

Brian

Thanks. I guess it's at least worth the time to growl at UPN corporate.

A waste of cybertime -- trying to holler at UPN corporate. Their website makes no allowance for viewer feedback, much less, non-viewer feedback.

For weeks, now, I've had my HD TiVo set to record Enterprise. I usually check in to see what's actually being recorded just before my wife and I switch to [also in progress, same time] the TiVoing Fox Football Friday.

Every week, it's the same. No HD. I stop the recording and delete. If these dorks in Albuquerque can't be bothered to show the bloody program in HD; then, I can't be bothered to be counted among the audience for their sponsors.

I'm just going to yank the Season Pass. If it shows up in HD, please, someone mention it here. I'll believe it when I see it!

Don't know why Alb. people have problems with channel 9 as I get it fine in Los Alamos.

9.2 and 9.3 are PBS kids East and West. 9.1 is PBS-U and available on Dish with replays of Charlie Rose and others. 9.4 may sometimes be good but without a guide it is hard to know when to look. The 1/4 bandwidth signals are much better than the fractional 5.2 is for the SD version of 5.0. Too bad we don't get that for the national feed. Some day, maybe, we will get a guide without downloading from the Web for 5.1 HD.

Lost sound on WB-19 Sunday for the Jack and Bobby replay. Just some pops but I had recorded Wed. because West Wing has ended.

I have dish 811 and 921 and an under-the-porch old combo antenna pointed between two houses across a canyon at the Crest. A few towers are visible at 49 miles with binoculars.

I tend to think that line-of-sight means everything.

By the way, welcome aboard!

Hello KKlare,

Welcome to my thread and I hope you will have fun time with it!:)

KNMD-DT is running low power "200 Watts ERP" at this time and that's why some Albuquerque TV Viewers are having some problems with the signal issue.

Since you are at Los Alamos you got a perfect line of sight so you are very lucky to get this signal!

That is considered a TV DXing since this station is running very low power ham radio type signal level for a 6 MHz wide bandwith in a ham TV world.

It will be a sometime before they will upgrade the transmitter power when they resolve the interferences issue with KCHF-DT channel 10 running at 1.7 KW ERP at this time.

I have a feeling they will move to the Sandia Crest antenna farm in order to resolve the interferences issue with KNMD-DT.

Anyway....................

Any news on KOB-DT getting NBC Weather + channel anytime soon?

Just wondering....

4-18-05

Anyone know if our DTV meeting is on for tonight at KNME? JR

Jim Gale left me a phone message and said there will be a meeting tonight. It will cover HDMI and also the NAB convention. Same place and same time. If I get the actual agenda from Jim via email I will post it. Fred.

New Mexico DTV User Group - - April Meeting

The New Mexico DTV User Group will hold its April meeting this Thursday (4/21) at
7:00 PM at the KNME-TV studios, located at 1130 University Blvd. KNME is located on University about 1 block north of the intersection of Lomas and University Blvd.

The month's topic is "NAB 2005". Jim Gale will make a presentation with slides taken recently at the National Association of Broadcasters convention and equipment exhibit.

We will also have a research topic presentation about “HDMI” presented by Gay Dybwad.

There will also be a national and local markets update.

We appreciate all your support as viewers and HD enthusiasts. Hope to see you at the meeting Thursday night!

Jim Gale
KNME-TV

I'm not sure if anybody has Comcast, but TNT HD was added today on ch. 184. Made it just in time for the playoffs.

Lucky you. I'm jealous. At least of the basketball.

Anyone willing to share the NM User group meeting results with us out-of-towners?

Breaking News!!!!!!!!!!!

KASA-DT will soon to be carry a brand new sub channel called the TUBE Music Channel, it will be a free over the air music channel just plain old rock an roll, no rap crap music at it all!!

The launch date is somewhere in the summertime.

Now the tech, part of codecs bit rate KASA is sending right now at the time was 16.27 MBs and no sub channels at this time.

When the TUBE music video channel come on line it's will proably take about 3 MBs for 480i and 16.27 MBs for HDTV 720p out of 19.3 MBs overall bit rate in a 6 MHz bandwith.

It's depend on your receivers it might show as 2.1 KASA FOX, 2.2 The TUBE Music channel or just show the real channel number 27.1 and 27.2.

Now 720p seems to be more robust against multicasting channels than 1080i.

The 1080i has some weakness to multicasting due to a interlace scan and twice the information bit rate which caused the 1080i's picture quality's to degrade.

Remember this is not a USDTV cancer, but rather Raycom's plans to have a free view channel with least impact on Fox's HDTV programings.

Also I have a feeling we might also have a 24/7 weather channel coming soon but not sure which station would be maybe KOB-DT or KRQE-DT who's know what next?:cool:

That's the news!!!

BTW:

Also please send in the report of the KNME's HDTV meeting that you guys went since most of us can't make it to the meeting.

Thanks!!

4-24-05

As an infrequent lurker to this forum, I'd like to post now because I have just finished setting up an OTA HD rig at my home near I-40/Louisiana.

Basically, I got tired of giving E* almost $80/month and not even getting any HD content. I realized one day that of all the stuff I was paying for, I only watched maybe 0.0003% of it, and that included Fox and PBS. I have Comcast for HSI, but don't really want to throw any more money at them.

My setup was done mostly on the cheap: roof-mounted UHF antenna from RatShack, refurbed Samsung T451 from eBay, Toshiba 30HF83 (owned for about one year), Denon AVR3801 (owned for about four years), etc.

Results thus far have been pretty good. I am getting everything TitanTV says I should be getting, plus a few extra PBS channels. I wish the SD content would be letterboxed so as to properly fill my Toshiba, but it's not the end of the world. The only thing missing is some sort of DVR, but I'll wait until summer to see if anything in the way of a tuner-enabled D-VHS or perhaps the new Sony OTA HD DVR is available at a humane price.

Anyway, just wanted to post my info and to thank everyone in the ABQ HD forum for posting. I have enjoyed looking at the posts from two or more years ago. It's interesting to watch the slow development of digital TV here in the Duke City.

As always, it's always great to hear from another voice. Keep us in touch with your project.

Welcome.

SkltLqr, for your HD-DVR needs, have you considered building a home theater computer (HTPC)? There is a boatload of info on these forums if you are interested. I built one, and it is now the centerpiece of my home entertainment system. You can PM me if you want to discuss it without cluttering this Albuquerque HDTV thread.

Originally posted by IAM4UK
SkltLqr, for your HD-DVR needs, have you considered building a home theater computer (HTPC)? There is a boatload of info on these forums if you are interested. I built one, and it is now the centerpiece of my home entertainment system. You can PM me if you want to discuss it without cluttering this Albuquerque HDTV thread.

I agree. I have been using MythTV for my DVR needs for about a year:

http://www.mythtv.org/

I used to use a ReplayTV, and my parents have a HD Tivo. MythTV blows both away as far as features are concerned. MythTV has been very stable for me, but it has some bugs when watching live tv. Does not affect me, since I never watch live tv.

The hot issue right now, is will the broadcast flag impact HTPCs when it goes into effect. A lot of people are stocking up on HD tuner cards just to be safe. If you decide to go with a linux HTPC, there are only two HD tuner cards with linux (stable) drivers:

http://www.pchdtv.com/
http://www.cyberestore.com/product_info.php?cPath=28&products_id=103

Enjoy,

John

More news updates about Tube Music Channel on KASA-DT.........

Just click on www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=5532687#post5532687

It shoud be midway in the thread if not scroll up from there.....

Let me know if the link works ok!:D

Other than that it's pretty quiet for the rest of the local digital stations.

4-25-05