For anyone interested, coverage maps for the local OTA transmitters have been posted in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10127219&&#post10127219).

Best regards,
Andy

That's good. Sometimes too much detail is not a good thing since it reveals blemishes, etc. that much more.

Since ABC is the only D/FW news station to broadcast in hi-def (so far), wouldn't that be a significant competitive advantage for them over the other stations?

I believe (no proof) that they use a softening filter on WFAA.

I believe (no proof) that they use a softening filter on WFAA.

they do..jstigler mentioned it at some point.

The "talent" is concerned about how they look in HD. I personally don't care because I don't watch the news to see an attractive anchor.

Just give me an HD picture that is as sharp as it can be.

they do..jstigler mentioned it at some point.

The "talent" is concerned about how they look in HD. I personally don't care because I don't watch the news to see an attractive anchor.

Just give me an HD picture that is as sharp as it can be.

I knew it! The anchors look "softened" while the graphic/weather maps look very sharp. I thought it was just me.

As you know, the D/FW area got pounded w/ rain this week, esp. today. Does OTA HD suffer from weather problems like the way satellite TV does?

5 is #1, I can see why they'd soften the images of the newscasters.

As you know, the D/FW area got pounded w/ rain this week, esp. today. Does OTA HD suffer from weather problems like the way satellite TV does?



No, just an occasional pixilization on the lightning flashes. The great part is not having to wait to find 5 transponders.............

I just wish 8.2 radar looked as good as "in studio" radar!

No, just an occasional pixilization on the lightning flashes. The great part is not having to wait to find 5 transponders.............

I just wish 8.2 radar looked as good as "in studio" radar!

Wouldn't that take away from their bandwidth on 8.1?

No, just an occasional pixilization on the lightning flashes. The great part is not having to wait to find 5 transponders.............

I just wish 8.2 radar looked as good as "in studio" radar!
That's great to hear. In ~15 mos. I'll dump Dish Network and just use free OTA HD. Can't wait 'til my satellite contract ends.

...5 is #1, I can see why they'd soften the images of the newscasters.

What do you mean by "5 is #1"?

What do you mean by "5 is #1"?
NASCAR...Kyle Busch....Kelloggs

NASCAR...Kyle Busch....Kelloggs

I totally missed that "5 is # 1" was a user name and that beowulf7 was talking to you. Now, I get the NASCAR reference.

I'm such a loser...

I totally missed that "5 is # 1" was a user name and that beowulf7 was talking to you. Now, I get the NASCAR reference.

I'm such a loser...
That's OK. I also wondered how he came up with that username. :p

As you know, the D/FW area got pounded w/ rain this week, esp. today. Does OTA HD suffer from weather problems like the way satellite TV does?

The weather has very little effect on OTA HD -- rain drops are almost transparent at the frequencies that are used for digital broadcast HD. The much higher frequencies used by DirecTV and DISH are much more sensitive to this, as I get periodically reminded of at the gym when a heavy storm comes through and all their TVs (fed by DirecTV) go blank.

The weather has very little effect on OTA HD -- rain drops are almost transparent at the frequencies that are used for digital broadcast HD. The much higher frequencies used by DirecTV and DISH are much more sensitive to this, as I get periodically reminded of at the gym when a heavy storm comes through and all their TVs (fed by DirecTV) go blank.
I appreciate the explanation. On Fri., my gym also lost its XM radio signal and sat. TV signal (not sure if they use DirecTV or Dish Network). Surprisingly, when I got home and manually resync'ed to get the signal, Dish was good for the rest of the evening. It just stinks that I have to manually refetch the signal whenever Dish loses it. :mad:

I appreciate the explanation. On Fri., my gym also lost its XM radio signal and sat. TV signal (not sure if they use DirecTV or Dish Network). Surprisingly, when I got home and manually resync'ed to get the signal, Dish was good for the rest of the evening. It just stinks that I have to manually refetch the signal whenever Dish loses it. :mad:

Your Dish receiver should reset itself when signal is lost. Perhaps you should call tech support and ask them. Even if I'm recording, the 508 (my old DVR) and the 622 (my current DVR) continue as soon as it re-finds the signal and puts an info. box in the recording informing me that part of the program was missed.

Your Dish receiver should reset itself when signal is lost. Perhaps you should call tech support and ask them. Even if I'm recording, the 508 (my old DVR) and the 622 (my current DVR) continue as soon as it re-finds the signal and puts an info. box in the recording informing me that part of the program was missed.
I've been too lazy and busy to call up Dish to have them troubleshoot my receiver, but I will do that one of these weekends! The signal itself is good (indicates 101-102, but obviously that's not in %age), so it has to be the receiver. Equally as annoying is when the receiver puts itself in Sleep mode, even though I disabled that (i.e. "Press SELECT to continue").

I've been too lazy and busy to call up Dish to have them troubleshoot my receiver, but I will do that one of these weekends!

Procrastination is the thief of time!!!
Where did I read that?? :)

Tom in TX

I just moved to The Colony and have a Dish 322 receiver. I checked on Antennaweb and see that most of the stations fall in the Yellow-UHF band (small multi-directional antenna). Most of the stations are 33 miles away.

I was thinking about installing one in the attic but we have metal foil decking so that's a no-go. I don't really think I am brave enough to climb on to the roof either so it looks like I am going for an indoor antenna.

Any ideas if an indoor antenna would be good enough or do I need something else? Also any recommendations? Thanks much!

Procrastination is the thief of time!!!
Where did I read that?? :)

Tom in TX
I use a Franklin planner, which has a different quote each day. I saw that quote a few years ago and "stole" it. :D

I think i'm going to finally give up on Time Warner.

On their website they advertise the MLS Direct Kick package under their Digital Sports Packages.

The online guide lists the games as being on this saturday (on channels TEAM8/9 954/955).

Yet when calling and emailing they say "we know nothing about the MLS Direct Kick Package, we're not sure why it's listed on the website".

So no MLS for me.

That combined with the lack of GolTV, and them giving us HDnet then moving it to some other package that costs more money has finally pushed me over the edge.

I've just never been impressed with either DirectTV or DishNetwork so i've been dragging my feet for a long time... I have a pretty big attic mounted antenna which gets pretty good quality on the OTA signals, so that's a plus.

I need a single HD DVR, then 2 HD Receivers for the other rooms. I have a old DirectTV dish mounted from the previous owners, but not sure if it'll work with the mpeg4 stuff, I guess they'll have to check when they come out.

So I guess my real question is, dtv or dish, and then who is the best to order the hardware through, one of the local places that advertise in the mail or just calling the companies directly?

I just moved to The Colony and have a Dish 322 receiver. I checked on Antennaweb and see that most of the stations fall in the Yellow-UHF band (small multi-directional antenna). Most of the stations are 33 miles away.

I was thinking about installing one in the attic but we have metal foil decking so that's a no-go. I don't really think I am brave enough to climb on to the roof either so it looks like I am going for an indoor antenna.

Any ideas if an indoor antenna would be good enough or do I need something else? Also any recommendations? Thanks much!

There are antennas that attach to your dish and can ride the same cable into your system...

An update for all, i live in carrollton, i've lost all HD QAM channels. Even Discover HD Theatre. ALL gone. hopefully giving TW the can tomorrow and getting 27 HD channels with dish for the same price i'm paying for standard non-digital cable...

Why I stay with DTV. Wife and I watch House on FOX. Storms tonight caused a ~30 min. interruption. Just switched over to the East coast HD feed and didn't miss a minute. Fortunately I was north of the severe weather. Hope everyone rode out the storm ok.

So I guess my real question is, dtv or dish, and then who is the best to order the hardware through, one of the local places that advertise in the mail or just calling the companies directly?

Remember that the places you see in the mail have to be making money to pay for those adds. They might tempt you with free DVRs, but in the long run (i.e. fine writing) you will end up paying more through them than if you delt with the provider directly.

You will hear pros and cons about both Sat providers here. Personally I have had DTV for almost 10 years and don't plan on leaving anytime soon.

Can anyone help me with this?

If anyone remembers, I was having problems bringing in channel 8 in HD. We rearranged our living room, and by chance, I get channel 8 in very well now. I can watch any show, any time and get almost no drop out.

Except Lost!!!!! Everything the entire day comes through fine, even the really stupid shows preceeding Lost (According to Jim) and it never fails. When Lost comes on, the signal starts going all crazy and I eventually get so pissed I turn it to my cable stb.

Anyone know why this happens? Is it because so many people might be tuning into it at the same time?

Is it because so many people might be tuning into it at the same time? It is definitely not because of that. You may want to send a message to WFAA and ask them. I'd be interested to know if they respond.

You LOST the signal... :p

I've got to tell all about a new preamp I installed. Winegard makes the HDP-269 for suburban reception. This baby has high resistance to over loaded signals (I'm only 30 miles from Cedar Hill) but a very low noise factor (3db) allows weak stations (my problem was no DTV on KERA 13 only analogue) are boosted (12db).
Solved my problems. :)

It is definitely not because of that. You may want to send a message to WFAA and ask them. I'd be interested to know if they respond.

If I remember correctly, Grey's Anatomy goes out like this too. Week after week. My wife loves that show and I'd like her to appreciate it a bit more :) .

My guess is, your provider wants you guys to pay, they're still sending out the signal, but at very low quality when the BIG shows are on tv, making you pay for them. Which is why i'm leaving them!

Hi,

After 4 months, I think I finally got a TV that is a keeper (06 was a horrible year for LCD's, Sharp's still terrible in 07). I am looking to get the Directv HD DVR installed. I've never had Directv either. Any known issues with this equipment or recommended signal pass through? I have a Sammy lnt4665.

FWIW, I live in Plano and receive all OTA channels (including some I don't watch) in eye popping HD, without the channels ever going out. I was surpised to read about the signal problems here (8 has always been in HD for me too). In fact on KERA last night around 1am, I watched a boring interview because the picture was so stunning (no idea what they talked about).

Anyway, I would appreciate any feedback on the directv HD DVR.

I've just never been impressed with either DirectTV or DishNetwork so i've been dragging my feet for a long time... I have a pretty big attic mounted antenna which gets pretty good quality on the OTA signals, so that's a plus.

I need a single HD DVR, then 2 HD Receivers for the other rooms. I have a old DirectTV dish mounted from the previous owners, but not sure if it'll work with the mpeg4 stuff, I guess they'll have to check when they come out.

So I guess my real question is, dtv or dish, and then who is the best to order the hardware through, one of the local places that advertise in the mail or just calling the companies directly?


I just posted a question about dtv myself, as I have never used them (am a former SD dish customer and not impressed). From purely a price standpoint, dtv had a significantly better offer than dish, as of last week I believe, and cross your fingers on their "125 channels of hd content by end of 2007" promise.

Hi,

After 4 months, I think I finally got a TV that is a keeper (06 was a horrible year for LCD's, Sharp's still terrible in 07). I am looking to get the Directv HD DVR installed. I've never had Directv either. Any known issues with this equipment or recommended signal pass through? I have a Sammy lnt4665.

FWIW, I live in Plano and receive all OTA channels (including some I don't watch) in eye popping HD, without the channels ever going out. I was surpised to read about the signal problems here (8 has always been in HD for me too). In fact on KERA last night around 1am, I watched a boring interview because the picture was so stunning (no idea what they talked about).

Anyway, I would appreciate any feedback on the directv HD DVR.
There was a pretty thorough review of DirecTV's DVR (I think HR20 or something like that) in the March 2007 issue of Home Theater magazine. Check that out at a library, newsstand, or maybe even their Web site (www.hometheatermag.com), which doesn't always get their mag.-printed articles. In general, the review for that HD DVR was very good.

Is it possible to get the locals, including HD locals 'in the clear' from TWC cable?

I have two co-workers who are reporting that they are getting the HD locals directly from the cable plant in to their Television. One of my coworkers has the Sony 60" SXRD set (sorry dont know the exact model) and dont know what the other guy has.

Anyhow, they are saying they get the HD locals. Are they really ? and if so, how exactly?

Thanks in advance!

edit: never mind, found an answer, and it is Yes...at least in North Texas.
With basic cable it is possible to get from Time Warner "clear QAM" or "unencrypted QAM" local channels. They carry all local OTA digital channels on 'basic cable' as unencrypted QAM. Any HD local channel that you should be able to get with an antenna should also be available on basic cable to you if you have a clear QAM tuner. Not only that, if you have 'expanded basic' cable you can get the HD channels for any expanded basic cable channel, except for ESPN. If you have a clear QAM tuner, either in your TV or your computer, an auto-scan should pick the channels right up including History Channel HD, Discovery Channel HD, TNT HD, MTV HD in the clear. Those channels match up to their expanded basic cable counterparts.

Anyway, I would appreciate any feedback on the directv HD DVR.
Discussed at length here (http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=112).

I just posted a question about dtv myself, as I have never used them (am a former SD dish customer and not impressed). From purely a price standpoint, dtv had a significantly better offer than dish, as of last week I believe, and cross your fingers on their "125 channels of hd content by end of 2007" promise.
There is no promise of 125 channels. There is not sufficient bandwith in their sats to do even 1/4 that much. These will be pay per view, RSN's sharing bandwith at different times, etc...
Dish has more channels by far in HD and as of 4/4/07 has Fox Sports Southwest HD on channel 366.Add to that the superiority of the 622 DVR (I can record 3 HD channels at once) and Direct does not compare*
If you are concerned with initial cost comparison, you are not considering how may years you will be using your DVR. With a leasing plan from Dish, they will replace ypur DVR free if there is a problem.

* Unless you need NFL Sunday Ticket (for me, the Cowboys are enough).

Thanks FriscoJoe and BeoWulf7. I appreciate the information.

There is no promise of 125 channels. There is not sufficient bandwith in their sats to do even 1/4 that much. These will be pay per view, RSN's sharing bandwith at different times, etc...
.


Thanks for the comparison to Dish. I appreciate it. I was mistaken on the number of channels. It is 150 not 125. Agreed that their current bandwith is not sufficient, that is why their PR is promising the "capacity" of 150 channels (pdf attached)...I realize I did not make that clear in my last post. I don't see this kind of promise from Dish, which makes DTV compelling in the near term. Maybe Dish already has this capacity. It seems that the HD sports offerings are decent from all providers, but I would like to see more content (other than OTA type broadcast) in HD too. I hope they deliver.

150 not 125. I hope they deliver.

Once again, this is "up to 150". Call them and ask if that is viewable at the same time or if the 150 share bandwidth....
Direct TV (and yes I've been a customer of theirs for years and likewise with Dish) has an advantage in sports programming only. I suggest you research further unless out of market sports is what you are subscribing for.

Once again, this is "up to 150". Call them and ask if that is viewable at the same time or if the 150 share bandwidth....
Direct TV (and yes I've been a customer of theirs for years and likewise with Dish) has an advantage in sports programming only. I suggest you research further unless out of market sports is what you are subscribing for.

DirecTV 10 and 11, due to be launched later this year, have capacity for 75 fulltime national HD channels and 500 HD spotbeamed locals EACH, for a total of 150 fulltime national HD and 1000 spotbeamed local HD channels. 150 fulltime national HD channels all viewable at the same time. What this means is that DirecTV will probably have CAPACITY for every national HD channel that is available, for quite some time. The last DirecTV press release said that they expected to have about 70-75 fulltime HD channels (this would include those RSNs that are fulltime in HD) and would have about 30 others like ST for a total of about 100, by the end of the year. It seems like they are asuming that DirecTV 11 will somehow manage to be launched and working by the end of 2007; based on the latest reports from Sea Launch, which say they expect to start launches again in October, that looks optimistic. But DirecTV 10 has capacity for 75, so it's reasonable to expect to see 75 by the end of 2007.

There are antennas that attach to your dish and can ride the same cable into your system...

In The Colony you would be lucky to get decent reception on a dish-mounted antenna, unless you were in a very "sweet spot". WFAA is on VHF 9 and is a real problem with most UHF antennas. Best bet is to try a CM4228, first in your attic and then if that doesn't work well, use it outside.
The CM4228 is a great UHF antenna and also has decent reception on VHF-hi. I am just East of Allen at 42 miles from the transmitters at Cedar Hill and use a CM4228 in my attic, even with foil insulation in the roof. Yiu may have to reposition your antenna to minimise multipath effects, but it just might work.

texasbrit,
I noticed that you said wfaa broadcasts on vhf 9. I suspect that's why I cannot find it on my setup. Which is : Large Terk directional mounted on chimney, with amplifier ( I live almost 70 miles from tower cluster). Anyway, the signal is run through my DirecTV HD receiver. No signal is found for 8-1, 8-2, or 8-3. Anyone know how to get it to look on frequency 9? Every other channel comes in great with the amplifier.

texasbrit,
I noticed that you said wfaa broadcasts on vhf 9. I suspect that's why I cannot find it on my setup. Which is : Large Terk directional mounted on chimney, with amplifier ( I live almost 70 miles from tower cluster). Anyway, the signal is run through my DirecTV HD receiver. No signal is found for 8-1, 8-2, or 8-3. Anyone know how to get it to look on frequency 9? Every other channel comes in great with the amplifier.

It's on channel 9 but that remaps to 8-1 etc. Which DirecTV receiver do you have? I think you will find it's already looking at frequency 9, it just can't find a signal.

I think it's just that your antenna is not good enough to pick up WFAA-DT at that range. Which Terk antenna is it? You are probably going to have a problem when CBS moves back to channel 11 in 2009 also.

Fellas,

Is anyone else having trouble with 27-1 signal? I get dropouts every few seconds.

I'm curious, because I sent an email to 27 asking about it and their response:


Sorry to hear of your trouble in getting our KDFI-DT 27.1 signal. Observations of our signal have shown a steady picture and weekly checks of the transmitting equipment have not revealed any transmission issues. You might try doing a rescan of your channel line up.


I have a ViP622. Every OTA channel I get comes in around 95-100 steady. 27-1 even comes in around 98-100, but its the drop-outs.

I'm trying to figure out if its my equipment or if its channel 27 signal.

There is not sufficient bandwith in their sats to do even 1/4 that much. These will be pay per view, RSN's sharing bandwith at different times, etc...
Dish has more channels by far in HD and as of 4/4/07 has Fox Sports Southwest HD on channel 366.Add to that the superiority of the 622 DVR (I can record 3 HD channels at once) and Direct does not compare
.

What is the HD capacity for DISH? Any plans to add channels? Any issues with the 622DVR? Thanks,

What is the HD capacity for DISH? Any plans to add channels? Any issues with the 622DVR? Thanks,
There is good discussion of these issues at these two sites:
dbstalk.com, and
satelliteguys.us
I have two of the 622's and love 'em! I am very happy with Dish. They are coming out tomorrow(Easter) to re-point my dish, so I can get the HD FoxSW!
Tom in TX

Thanks Tom. I went to dbs talk earlier and the dish guys don't seem to have a clue about capacity or know anything concrete about HD in the pipe (understandably on the latter). All of this is a little disappointing, since we largely buy these TV's for HD content and gaming. I'll try stat guys.

Fellas,

Is anyone else having trouble with 27-1 signal? I get dropouts every few seconds.

.


I can offer this...I previously owned a Sharp 46d62u lcd, and for the OTA signal I would always lose 27-1. Curiously, I could pick it up on 36-1 (or somewhere in the 30's) whenever I lost it. I have never had this problem on the Samsung LCD's, but then again the 2006 & 2007 Sharp LCD's are a piece of junk, so that may correlate to an equipment issue for you, too.

texasbrit,
I noticed that you said wfaa broadcasts on vhf 9. I suspect that's why I cannot find it on my setup. Which is : Large Terk directional mounted on chimney, with amplifier ( I live almost 70 miles from tower cluster). Anyway, the signal is run through my DirecTV HD receiver. No signal is found for 8-1, 8-2, or 8-3. Anyone know how to get it to look on frequency 9? Every other channel comes in great with the amplifier.
What type of amplifier are you using? Are you sure your TERK is capable of picking up the VHF freq.?

I had very bad experiences with two different TERK antennas (one which was large and ran $200). Switched over to a Channel Master antenna and pre-amp and all problems were solved.

There is good discussion of these issues at these two sites:
dbstalk.com, and
satelliteguys.us
I have two of the 622's and love 'em! I am very happy with Dish. They are coming out tomorrow(Easter) to re-point my dish, so I can get the HD FoxSW!
Tom in TX

I noticed that FoxSW HD is showing up now showing up in the guide, but it only shows the Dish logo when I put it on that channel.

Do I have to get them to re-point my dish to get this new HD channel as well? (from now on we'll see all Mavericks games in HD!)

...Do I have to get them to re-point my dish to get this new HD channel as well? (from now on we'll see all Mavericks games in HD!)

If you're currently only pointing at 61.5, then yes, I believe you'll have to swing your dish around to the 129 bird.

What type of amplifier are you using? Are you sure your TERK is capable of picking up the VHF freq.?

I had very bad experiences with two different TERK antennas (one which was large and ran $200). Switched over to a Channel Master antenna and pre-amp and all problems were solved.

The Terk antennas are generally very overpriced for what they are....

I can offer this...I previously owned a Sharp 46d62u lcd, and for the OTA signal I would always lose 27-1. Curiously, I could pick it up on 36-1 (or somewhere in the 30's) whenever I lost it. I have never had this problem on the Samsung LCD's, but then again the 2006 & 2007 Sharp LCD's are a piece of junk, so that may correlate to an equipment issue for you, too.

27-1 regularly goes away and sometimes shows up on 36-1 (or 35-1 or something) as you indicate. Nothing about your TV will change that. It's on their end.

27-1 regularly goes away and sometimes shows up on 36-1 (or 35-1 or something) as you indicate. Nothing about your TV will change that. It's on their end.


What TV do you have? I have not yet had to redirect my Samsung LCD.

What TV do you have? I have not yet had to redirect my Samsung LCD.

5 different brands of tuners. Dude, it's in the transmission, check this thread and you'll see. Your TV doesn't cause nor fix this one.

I noticed that FoxSW HD is showing up now showing up in the guide, but it only shows the Dish logo when I put it on that channel.

Do I have to get them to re-point my dish to get this new HD channel as well? (from now on we'll see all Mavericks games in HD!)

Hardly... We have the 'Ability' to see all the HD games, but TXA 21 does more HD games throughout the year then Fox Sports SW.... At least this year they did (the past few years had TXA 21 rebroadcasting some of the HDNet broadcasts we already were getting on 9465).

You can check the Fox Sport Net HD page to keep up on their HD broadcasts:

http://msn.foxsports.com/name/HD#FSSouthwest

They update it every so often... but don't expect lots of HD though. Maybe we will at least get the FSN Saturday college football game of the week in HD.

What is the HD capacity for DISH? Any plans to add channels? Any issues with the 622DVR? Thanks,

30 HD and 200 SD
No common problems.

Here is another site's thread:
http://www.highdefforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=19


Here is Dish's brochure:

http://www.dishnetwork.com/downloads/pdf/product_brochures/ViP622_ProductSheet_HighRes.pdf

FSSW 366 shares bandwith and will only be activated for certian games.

Hey Everyone, I noticed that the Stars Canucks game 1 will be on channel 27, does anyone know if it will be in HD OTA? I've seen a few stars games on 27-1 and they have been Pillar Boxed, but those were days games that i've seen so i'm hoping that they will have it in hd since it's primetime.

I was using this crappy Philips hd antenna for awhile with Gain Knobs that werent labled and it was a pain in the ass to get a signal on even a strong signaled station i took it back and got a NEWPOINT VCEPT PRO Ampliphied antenna that I purchased at Fry's. It's like night and day. The only negative is that it has a blue light in the front that lights up the living room with the lights out so it's good to cover that sucker up.

Hey Everyone, I noticed that the Stars Canucks game 1 will be on channel 27, does anyone know if it will be in HD OTA?
I have never seen any Rangers or Stars games broadcast in HD on ch 27. So I highly doubt it.

Our best bet is Versus HD. And according to this (http://www.versus.com/nw/article/view/17462/?tf=NHLArticleWrapper.tpl) Versus will be broadcasting this series. Not sure about blackout rules.

Thanks 5 is #1...good information. I appreciate it, and I see you're a poster there as well.

I have never seen any Rangers or Stars games broadcast in HD on ch 27. So I highly doubt it.

Our best bet is Versus HD. And according to this Versus will be broadcasting this series. Not sure about blackout rules.

DFW is blacked out from all the Stars Versus games. Given that TWC doesn't get Versus-HD, can't say it affects us much. I'd rather hear Ralph & Razor call the game anyway...

Anyone know when Comcast is going to do the firmware update to allow HDMI switching? I just got the new HDMI DVR box and it won't let me send the signal through my Denon receiver, I have to go straight to my Samsung DLP..

Thanks

DFW is blacked out from all the Stars Versus games. Given that TWC doesn't get Versus-HD, can't say it affects us much. I'd rather hear Ralph & Razor call the game anyway...

The series will air on My 27 and FSN Southwest. I suppose it's possible they could offer some of those games in HD on FSN's HD channel, but there's no word of that at this point.

Anyone know when Comcast is going to do the firmware update to allow HDMI switching? I just got the new HDMI DVR box and it won't let me send the signal through my Denon receiver, I have to go straight to my Samsung DLP..

Thanks

I'm guessing you are local and mean TimeWarner, and I don't know that they have pushed a firmware update since taking over here...I really don't know their track record on getting updates out...

Randy

Anyone know when Comcast is going to do the firmware update to allow HDMI switching? I just got the new HDMI DVR box and it won't let me send the signal through my Denon receiver, I have to go straight to my Samsung DLP..

Thanks

I think you mean Time Warner, since they took over from Comcast in this part of the country.

I sent a (nice) note about the problem to Regional president a couple of weeks ago. I received an answer that night saying he wold have someone get back to me. The next day the VP of Operations got back to me and subsequenlty agev me a couple of status updates. Last week an engineering manager called and said they were testing 16.35. They had to install a number of upgrades to other parts of the overall system to allow them to be compatible with 16.35. I expect to be a test case for them soon. If I don't get another update by the end of this week I will contact them again. I'll post useful information here as I get it.

Bernie

Is QAM on TWC Plano messed up. This morning I have been unable to tune my HDHomerun to any channels.

Any input would be appreciated.

Thx

I just noticed that the Stars Canucks game is listed in HD on Channel 95 on D* tonight. What are the chances it will be blocked and I can't watch it?

I just noticed that the Stars Canucks game is listed in HD on Channel 95 on D* tonight. What are the chances it will be blocked and I can't watch it?
That is the Versus broadcast and supposed to be blacked out in DFW. Bummer :(

Thought the mavs twolves game was supposed to be televised on HDNET tonight, I am getting nothing on channel 96

Bummer indeed and the channel 27 pic is horrid with noise in the picture.

Thought the mavs twolves game was supposed to be televised on HDNET tonight, I am getting nothing on channel 96

I'm not sure if the game was suppose to be on HDNet but you were on the wrong channel for HDNet if it was. HDNet is channel 79 on D*.

I'm not sure if the game was suppose to be on HDNet but you were on the wrong channel for HDNet if it was. HDNet is channel 79 on D*.
He's referring to the local into local HDNet Mavs broadcasts, for the Mavs home TV market, found on D* channel 96.

Threads merged.

With FSN SW HD recently being added to Dish Network, I went and did some searching of the Rangers schedule (http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/schedule/sortable.jsp?c_id=tex) and found the following games on FSN SW HD:

Wed, 5/2, vs NYY
Fri, 5/25, vs BOS
Thur, 6/7, vs. DET
Tue, 6/19, vs. CHC
Wed, 6/20, vs. CHC
Fri, 6/22, vs. HOU
Wed, 7/4, vs. ANA
Thur, 7/5, vs. ANA
Fri, 7/6, vs. BAL
Mon, 7/23, vs. SEA
Wed, 7/25, vs. SEA
Mon, 8/6, vs. OAK
Wed, 8/8, vs. OAK
Thur, 8/23, vs. SEA
Fri, 8/24, vs. SEA
Wed, 8/29, vs. CHW
Thur, 8/30, vs. CHW

Interesting that its only home games. Oh well, something is better than nothing.

With FSN SW HD recently being added to Dish Network, I went and did some searching of the Rangers schedule (http://texas.rangers.mlb.com/schedule/sortable.jsp?c_id=tex) and found the following games on FSN SW HD:

Wed, 5/2, vs NYY

.

And it is not even all of the home games. The Yankees games are almost sold out (if not entirely), because so many of us are here on the witness protection program. You would think that they would broadcast all of those games.

And it is not even all of the home games. The Yankees games are almost sold out (if not entirely), because so many of us are here on the witness protection program. You would think that they would broadcast all of those games.
Nobody wants to see the Rangers lose. :eek:

Has anyone installed an attic/roof antenna such as the CM4228 indoors next to the TV? What is the downside, besides having a large piece of equipment that would be an eyesore? I ask b/c I don't know if I'd be able to run a very long coax cable from the attic all the way downstairs to where the TV is since the coax cable outlet is along an exterior wall. Meaning that the cable was installed before the drywall was put in place. It's true that I'd have more signal loss since it would have to penetrate another floor before hitting the roof.

5/11 time warner cable adds espn2hd and soapnet.

5/11 time warner cable adds espn2hd and soapnet.

Well, one out of two ain't bad.... ;) Here's hoping this doesn't create another tier!!! :D

Randy

I think you mean Time Warner, since they took over from Comcast in this part of the country.

I sent a (nice) note about the problem to Regional president a couple of weeks ago. I received an answer that night saying he would have someone get back to me. The next day the VP of Operations got back to me and subsequently gave me a couple of status updates. Last week an engineering manager called and said they were testing 16.35. They had to install a number of upgrades to other parts of the overall system to allow them to be compatible with 16.35. I expect to be a test case for them soon. If I don't get another update by the end of this week I will contact them again. I'll post useful information here as I get it.

Bernie

TWC is testing 16.35 and allowed me to do a user test. So far the results are very positive. The HDCP problem when connecting to a surround sound via an HDMI cable is resolved. So far we have not had any occurrences of the loss of sound that frequently occurred after rewinding or fast forwarding. You can now setup multiple Favorites lists, i.e. for different family members, and switch between them.

I've updated the wikibook to describe how to setup the multiple lists and how to switch between them. http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup

Before getting to this point they had to upgrade a variety of software in their systems to provide compatibility between the iGuide, their distribution systems, and the several variations of STB's and DVR's they support. There is at least one problem remaining for some non-DVR's that they are trying to resolve together with Motorola. If the problems are resolved general rollout could begin as early as this coming week and will be phased over several nights. The download of the firmware patch took about 45 minutes and then several hours to repopulate the Guide.

Bernie

Has anyone installed an attic/roof antenna such as the CM4228 indoors next to the TV? What is the downside, besides having a large piece of equipment that would be an eyesore? I ask b/c I don't know if I'd be able to run a very long coax cable from the attic all the way downstairs to where the TV is since the coax cable outlet is along an exterior wall. Meaning that the cable was installed before the drywall was put in place. It's true that I'd have more signal loss since it would have to penetrate another floor before hitting the roof.
You might want to check and see if the cables run through your attic. I found that three of the cables running to rooms in my house were in the attic. Just cut them, put new ends on them, and tapped them into my Sat connection. Same can be done with an antenna.

OR

You could run the coax along the outside of the house and tap it into the existing coax cable outlet. Just need a drill bit and a good tape measure. Remember "measure twice, cut once".

I did this when I bought my house. I have two Sat and the one OTA lines running down the outside of the house and through the brick and insulation. You have to look real hard to see the coax running along the outside of the house.

More work but "to me" it seems like a better idea than putting a rather large antenna inside. Just my 2 cents

You might want to check and see if the cables run through your attic. I found that three of the cables running to rooms in my house were in the attic. Just cut them, put new ends on them, and tapped them into my Sat connection. Same can be done with an antenna.

OR

You could run the coax along the outside of the house and tap it into the existing coax cable outlet. Just need a drill bit and a good tape measure. Remember "measure twice, cut once".

I did this when I bought my house. I have two Sat and the one OTA lines running down the outside of the house and through the brick and insulation. You have to look real hard to see the coax running along the outside of the house.

More work but "to me" it seems like a better idea than putting a rather large antenna inside. Just my 2 cents
I agree with what you say. I know there's at least one cable running from the attic to the downstairs family room. I don't know how feasible it would be to "fish" another line like that, now that the interior walls are up, unlike during house construction phase. I'd prefer not to punch a line from the outside, but realize that's another possibility (and use silicone to seal up the hole).

One of these days, I'll crawl around my attic to really see how things are. So far, I've just had the Dish Network guy up there and he told me he could only run coax lines upstairs. (I intially asked him if he could run another line to the downstairs kitchen in case I want a TV there in the future.) He was probably just being lazy and wanted to do the minimal amount of work, so he just ran another line to my upstairs bedroom office via the attic.

Thanks for the advice.

You might want to check and see if the cables run through your attic. I found that three of the cables running to rooms in my house were in the attic. Just cut them, put new ends on them, and tapped them into my Sat connection.

Be careful, Sat. require RG-6 Quad Shield cable...
Most newer homes are prewired with this on their "tech runs" (a bundle with coax, phone, and cat 5).

I (I intially asked him if he could run another line to the downstairs kitchen in case I want a TV there in the future.) He was probably just being lazy and wanted to do the minimal amount of work, so he just ran another line to my upstairs bedroom office via the attic.

Thanks for the advice.

There are also wireless transmitters (Radio Shack, etc...) as long as you don't need HD signals.

There are also wireless transmitters (Radio Shack, etc...) as long as you don't need HD signals.
That's good to know, but I'd want to run another coax cable down to my family room for HD signals.

Usually, the only cross stud you need to woory about will be the one at the top of the wall (which you will see when you get to the attic). If the hole drilled is large enough, you can tape a new coax to the existing one and pull it through. If not, you need to drill and buy some fish tape to push through the insulation. With enough patience you can fish anything. I pulled about eight cables to mount my Sony:

http://gallery.avsforum.com/showphoto.php/photo/23657/cat/502

^ Nice pics! :cool:

Yes, I need to become a fisherman and will play around with it when I need to run a long coax as I get ready for buying an HDTV and antenna for OTA HD. :) One of these days, I'll crawl all around my attic to really see how it's laid out. So far, I haven't ventured much while up there.

Beware the killer dust bunnies!!!

Fox4 Mpeg4 on D*
Is anyone else seeing like an 8mm effect? It appears on non HD broadcasts.

Looks like I'll be moving again soon. I'm currently in Turtle Creek using DTV. I'll probably move back over to Travis Walk area (Knox & Travis) to rent an apt or townhouse for maybe the next year.

Right now I'm a bit pissed @ my sat going out during the rain coming down right now. I'm seriously debating cable. However, I REALLY like the UI of my DTV HD Tivo. Several of the cable tv UI's I've seen in the past really sucked.

How is Time Warner? Decent amount of HD channels? Is the HD DVR nice? Should I look into Dish? I honestly don't care about sports, however I do enjoy watching East coast feeds (NYC news etc..)

Too bad FiOS isn't an option.

Looks like I'll be moving again soon. I'm currently in Turtle Creek using DTV. I'll probably move back over to Travis Walk area (Knox & Travis) to rent an apt or townhouse for maybe the next year.

Right now I'm a bit pissed @ my sat going out during the rain coming down right now. I'm seriously debating cable. However, I REALLY like the UI of my DTV HD Tivo. Several of the cable tv UI's I've seen in the past really sucked.

How is Time Warner? Decent amount of HD channels? Is the HD DVR nice? Should I look into Dish? I honestly don't care about sports, however I do enjoy watching East coast feeds (NYC news etc..)

Too bad FiOS isn't an option.

I'm sure your question will generate some interesting opinions. :)

We're generally pleased with TWC. More pleased than we were with Comcast. The DVR user interface is not as artistic as Tivo's (I have a Tivo Series 2 dual tuner also.) But the Motorola interface is fully functional and somethings may even be easier. Now that we've had the DVR for about six months and I use that most of the time, if I go back to the Tivo in another room I often find myself saying "I know there's a way to do this on the Tivo, if I can just figure it out. It is easy to do on the DVR." Of course when we first got the DVR I kept complaining about how much easier things were to do on the Tivo.

As I mentioned recently, I've been fortunate to get an early version of the upgrade to the DVR firmware and software and that makes things even better.

The one feature on the Tivo that isn't available on the DVR is recommendations. We didn't often watch the recommendations and I didn't think I would miss it at all. But occasionally Tivo would (and still does) record something that we did enjoy and wold not have known about otherwise.

The DVR, of course, provides HD and the Tivo does not. My Tivo subscription is paid up for another couple of months, but when it expires we'll join many, many others and not renew it.

You can see the HD lineup at http://www.timewarnercable.com/dallas/programming/lineups.html

Bernie

Beware the killer dust bunnies!!!
You're right. I'll dress in crappy clothes that need to be washed and will crawl around before I take a shower. :D

bernie33, TiVo has a HD version available. It was briefly reviewed in the March 2007 issue of "Home Theater" magazine. But it costs a fortune: $800! :eek: (Plus the monthly subscription.)

bernie33, TiVo has a HD version available. It was briefly reviewed in the March 2007 issue of "Home Theater" magazine. But it costs a fortune: $800! :eek: (Plus the monthly subscription.)

You can pick these up for closer to $575-$600 these days. Not cheap, by any stretch, but lower than the original eye-popping $799....

Randy

Looks like I'll be moving again soon. I'm currently in Turtle Creek using DTV. I'll probably move back over to Travis Walk area (Knox & Travis) to rent an apt or townhouse for maybe the next year.

Right now I'm a bit pissed @ my sat going out during the rain coming down right now. I'm seriously debating cable. However, I REALLY like the UI of my DTV HD Tivo. Several of the cable tv UI's I've seen in the past really sucked.

How is Time Warner? Decent amount of HD channels? Is the HD DVR nice? Should I look into Dish? I honestly don't care about sports, however I do enjoy watching East coast feeds (NYC news etc..)

Too bad FiOS isn't an option.
Have you thought about getting an antenna? I didn't loose my picture at all during the past two big storms. I also have the HD Tivo with DTV.

bernie33, TiVo has a HD version available. It was briefly reviewed in the March 2007 issue of "Home Theater" magazine. But it costs a fortune: $800! :eek: (Plus the monthly subscription.)

Yes, but Geckotec is looking for alternatives for hooking up his existing Tivo Series 2 dual tuner.

Aside from the expense of buying the Tivo Series 3 there is also the (increased) expense of the subscription. You don't buy the DVR and the monthly fee is less than Tivo's. A friend owns a Series 3, but it just doesn't make any economic sense to me, and the DVR actually has more functionality (although I never use pay-per-view and almost never use on-demand).

Have you thought about getting an antenna? I didn't loose my picture at all during the past two big storms. I also have the HD Tivo with DTV.

I have an antenna, but that doesn't fix problems on the sat stations, just the locals.

Basically, I'm a bit annoyed w/ DTV and DSL right now and I'm just seriously debating cable.

I'd jump on FiOS in a heartbeat, but I'd cut off my right pinky before I moved back to the suburbs! :cool:

I have an antenna, but that doesn't fix problems on the sat stations, just the locals.

Basically, I'm a bit annoyed w/ DTV and DSL right now and I'm just seriously debating cable.

I'd jump on FiOS in a heartbeat, but I'd cut off my right pinky before I moved back to the suburbs! :cool:
Did you only lose your signal for a few minutes?

You might want to check the signal strengths of all three of the sat's with your HD Tivo. Rain fade will occur more often, and for longer periods, if the signal strengths are already down.

Might already have tried this and/or know this..........just my 2 cents.

Is everyone getting their CW 33-1 HD signal? I use Vista MCE to do my recording and have noticed that its gone from 33-1 to 32-1(channel 1321 in Vista) and there's no signal. I'm in Garland, BTW and have never had this problem before.

I have an antenna, but that doesn't fix problems on the sat stations, just the locals.

Basically, I'm a bit annoyed w/ DTV and DSL right now and I'm just seriously debating cable.

I'd jump on FiOS in a heartbeat, but I'd cut off my right pinky before I moved back to the suburbs! :cool:

I lose my signal very briefly when it really pours, but usually less then 5 min.
Fade is exagerated by poorly aimed or poorly "fixed" dishes. Anchor that puppy below an eve and you should reduce the problem.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=80131&stc=1

Careful what you wish for on FIOS. I posted this previously on this site, and I can't stress it enough.

I had FIOS TV for 3 wks and told them to pick up their eqmt. The representatives are outstanding. The equipment is terrible. In speaking with others, I have found there is common issues. I left dish (not HD dish) which had more advanced features and the box was 2 years old. I am considering getting Dish HD or Direct TV. These were my FIOS TV problems:

1) Signal lags on both sets (HD Flat Screen and SD CRT)
2) Remote has to be pointed directly at box to work
3) No ability to skip forward. Old Tech of FF (& the buttons are little more than the size of a small tack head...spacing between buttons is the size of a pin head.) Harmony remote is really the only way to use this piece of junk equipment.
4) Picture not crisp, even in HD
5) No instruction manual provided
6) Difficult to switch output (720p, 1080i, etc.)
7) Menu guide has little or no descriptions
8) Not uncommon for the menu guide to display one show title, but the actual program is different
9) Audio recently became intermittant on the HD box
10) Can't view HD recorded material on SD TV...doesn't down convert like dish.

Good luck with FIOS TV until they work out the kinks...Love the internet connection though.

Yes, but Geckotec is looking for alternatives for hooking up his existing Tivo Series 2 dual tuner.

Aside from the expense of buying the Tivo Series 3 there is also the (increased) expense of the subscription. You don't buy the DVR and the monthly fee is less than Tivo's. A friend owns a Series 3, but it just doesn't make any economic sense to me, and the DVR actually has more functionality (although I never use pay-per-view and almost never use on-demand).
Yes, it is very expensive, but some people don't mind paying for it for its "user friendliness". One of my friends really loves his ancient TiVo (which he hacked and added another HDD). I personally cannot imagine myself ever getting TiVo b/c I wouldn't want to pay a monthly fee for something that is available for free (such as with BeyondTV, DVR, etc.). Sure, TiVo has suggested recordings and thumbs up/down that BTV and DVRs don't, but I don't care for those features.

My parents in NJ are scheduled to get Verizon FiOS in early May. I'll report here on how it goes. They're looking forward to making use of their HDTVs since they currently only have SD cable TV. Hopefully they won't have the problems NYY mentioned. :eek:

The Dish DVR runs about $100 after rebates etc... and the best part is by leasing, you can switch them out if a problem develops (nice for anything with moving parts).

Careful what you wish for on FIOS. I posted this previously on this site, and I can't stress it enough.

I had FIOS TV for 3 wks and told them to pick up their eqmt. The representatives are outstanding. The equipment is terrible. In speaking with others, I have found there is common issues. I left dish (not HD dish) which had more advanced features and the box was 2 years old. I am considering getting Dish HD or Direct TV. These were my FIOS TV problems:

1) Signal lags on both sets (HD Flat Screen and SD CRT)
2) Remote has to be pointed directly at box to work
3) No ability to skip forward. Old Tech of FF (& the buttons are little more than the size of a small tack head...spacing between buttons is the size of a pin head.) Harmony remote is really the only way to use this piece of junk equipment.
4) Picture not crisp, even in HD
5) No instruction manual provided
6) Difficult to switch output (720p, 1080i, etc.)
7) Menu guide has little or no descriptions
8) Not uncommon for the menu guide to display one show title, but the actual program is different
9) Audio recently became intermittant on the HD box
10) Can't view HD recorded material on SD TV...doesn't down convert like dish.

Good luck with FIOS TV until they work out the kinks...Love the internet connection though.

I had the same experience, but I only put Dish on hold while I tried out FiOS for 30 days. I was very unimpressed with their equipment. Vastly inferior to Dish HD DVR's. Like you, I kept the internet service!

Tom in TX

I had the same experience, but I only put Dish on hold while I tried out FiOS for 30 days. I was very unimpressed with their equipment. Vastly inferior to Dish HD DVR's. Like you, I kept the internet service!

Tom in TX


Wise move! I have been mulling over going to Directv with their promise of increased capacity (and hopefully more HD content). After doing research, they seem to be good at over promising and under delivering. I already postponed installation once. I am thinking of going back with Dish if I can get a decent deal. The two big issues with directv for me are potential equipment purchase problems which 5 is #1 points out too, and the quick FF feature instead of a true skip button.

On another note, did the STARS game last night seem to have an unusual amount of macroblocking on the fast moving scenes? I did not find it excessive, but it has not been typical for me to notice this on my panel, from my viewing distance.

Careful what you wish for on FIOS. I posted this previously on this site, and I can't stress it enough.

I had FIOS TV for 3 wks and told them to pick up their eqmt. The representatives are outstanding. The equipment is terrible. In speaking with others, I have found there is common issues. I left dish (not HD dish) which had more advanced features and the box was 2 years old. I am considering getting Dish HD or Direct TV. These were my FIOS TV problems:

1) Signal lags on both sets (HD Flat Screen and SD CRT)
2) Remote has to be pointed directly at box to work
3) No ability to skip forward. Old Tech of FF (& the buttons are little more than the size of a small tack head...spacing between buttons is the size of a pin head.) Harmony remote is really the only way to use this piece of junk equipment.
4) Picture not crisp, even in HD
5) No instruction manual provided
6) Difficult to switch output (720p, 1080i, etc.)
7) Menu guide has little or no descriptions
8) Not uncommon for the menu guide to display one show title, but the actual program is different
9) Audio recently became intermittant on the HD box
10) Can't view HD recorded material on SD TV...doesn't down convert like dish.

Good luck with FIOS TV until they work out the kinks...Love the internet connection though.

I've had Fios for about 10 months and have not experienced these problems. I will say that I think Verizon was caught off guard by how popular the service would be. I think they had to scramble to find enough installers for my area. I wonder in a way if perhaps your experience was problematic due to having an inexperienced (or overworked) installer who didn't hook something up right.

I suspect the problem you had with the remote was related to where you had the equipment in your living room. I had far more problems with the box from my old cable company.

The picture on all the channels is FAR better on Fios than on my old cable system or the Directv/Dish systems I've seen. The HD is fantastic. I've never had a problem switching between the various HD output types.

Also, you can view HD recorded material on an SD TV. If you hook up the s-video connector it'll downconvert just fine. (that's the way I have it hooked into my DVD recorder)

Yankees-Boston game in HD on OTA Fox was stunning. I felt like I was on the field. Too bad NYY lost. Last I checked NASCAR in between quarters during the Stars game, 5 was #10...hope he did better closer to the end.

Now if only the Stars were broadcast in HD OTA...still haven't signed up with a provider yet and watched SD FSN Southwest game last night at a friends who won't upgrade to HD Dish.

I figured this would be the best place to ask you guys if you had any one to recomend to install as UHF antenna in the Frisco area. I normally do the work myself, but my house now has a radiant barrier and I would prefer not to have to walk on the roof. Thanks for any advice.

BTW...I am currently in Frisco with a yaggi with rather good results. Only 27.1 is not depenable.

Ivan

Is everyone getting their CW 33-1 HD signal? I use Vista MCE to do my recording and have noticed that its gone from 33-1 to 32-1(channel 1321 in Vista) and there's no signal. I'm in Garland, BTW and have never had this problem before.

I'm in the same boat but with MCE2005. When I go to SETUP TV SIGNAL I get a very good signal strength on 32-1 but when I try to view it I get a "No Signal" error. I did a re-scan to no avail. Anyone know what's the problem or how to fix it?

Thanks!

I'm in the same boat but with MCE2005. When I go to SETUP TV SIGNAL I get a very good signal strength on 32-1 but when I try to view it I get a "No Signal" error. I did a re-scan to no avail. Anyone know what's the problem or how to fix it?

Thanks!


UPDATE:
For some reason the GUIDE listings got changed so I had do manually add the channel. Here's the guide on how to do it:

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/mce/expert/elsbree_dec2004.mspx

For digital TV channel use 33-1. For Frequency use 32.

After I added the channel I then did the "Edit Digital TV Listing" and pointed the new channell "1331" to the "1321" guide listing. Finally I went to the signal strength settings and de-selected 1321 from the lineup. All is good to go.

Oh yes, I forgot that if you have any future CW recordings you will need to delete them and make new one's using the new 1331 channel.

Cheers!

Yankees-Boston game in HD on OTA Fox was stunning. I felt like I was on the field. Too bad NYY lost. Last I checked NASCAR in between quarters during the Stars game, 5 was #10...hope he did better closer to the end.

Now if only the Stars were broadcast in HD OTA...still haven't signed up with a provider yet and watched SD FSN Southwest game last night at a friends who won't upgrade to HD Dish.
I watched the Yankees game on my PC TV (SD Dish Network) and am currently watching the Devils game (NBC) in the same manner. I can't wait until I get HD. My self-imposed deadline to have my HTS fully set up is in time to see the Giants/Cowboys season opener on 9/9/07. :cool:

I see mixed reviews of VZ FiOS in terms of HDTV but everyone says they offer very fast Internet. What about VZ FiOS VoIP? Is that reliable and clear or not? TIA.

I watched the Yankees game on my PC TV (SD Dish Network) and am currently watching the Devils game (NBC) in the same manner. I can't wait until I get HD. My self-imposed deadline to have my HTS fully set up is in time to see the Giants/Cowboys season opener on 9/9/07. :cool:

I see mixed reviews of VZ FiOS in terms of HDTV but everyone says they offer very fast Internet. What about VZ FiOS VoIP? Is that reliable and clear or not? TIA.
I've got all three from Verizon and couldn't be more happy with the exception of the HD DVR. I've also got Dish with their VIP622 DVR and rely on that a little more as far as recording is concerned. The Dish DVR is far better IMHO.

The Verizon "trio" has been extremely reliable as far as I'm concerned.

I see mixed reviews of VZ FiOS in terms of HDTV but everyone says they offer very fast Internet. What about VZ FiOS VoIP? Is that reliable and clear or not? TIA.

The more this gets discussed, the greater it seems to come down to the equipment (STB) that verizon is using. If they came up with a better DVR and reliable guide, I think they would have a winner IMHO.

I love the internet service...extremely fast. I work from home on occassion, and I never have to wait...other than the VPN and my company's own bandwidth restrictions.

On another note: Mavs game was broadcast in HD, Yankees/BOS game was broadcast in HD, Redwings/Flames game in HD (not all on the same network). Tx Rangers game in SD was unwatchable after seeing these other games in HD. Is it the ballclub/facility that is using cheap cameras or is it that the network decided to save on the bandwidth for the broadcast?

I've got all three from Verizon and couldn't be more happy with the exception of the HD DVR. I've also got Dish with their VIP622 DVR and rely on that a little more as far as recording is concerned. The Dish DVR is far better IMHO.

The Verizon "trio" has been extremely reliable as far as I'm concerned.
I see, so someone who wants to use VZ FiOS would probably better off bringing his own HD DVR to the table instead of renting it from VZ. My parents are going to rent a HD DVR from VZ when they activate FiOS service next week. Hopefully it won't be *that* bad. :eek:

The more this gets discussed, the greater it seems to come down to the equipment (STB) that verizon is using. If they came up with a better DVR and reliable guide, I think they would have a winner IMHO.

I love the internet service...extremely fast. I work from home on occassion, and I never have to wait...other than the VPN and my company's own bandwidth restrictions.

On another note: Mavs game was broadcast in HD, Yankees/BOS game was broadcast in HD, Redwings/Flames game in HD (not all on the same network). Tx Rangers game in SD was unwatchable after seeing these other games in HD. Is it the ballclub/facility that is using cheap cameras or is it that the network decided to save on the bandwidth for the broadcast?
IMO, the Yankees/Boston game was unwatchable, but for a different reason. 4 home runs in a row! Pitiful! Clemens needs to sign with the Bronx Bombers!!

Too bad the Rangers game was only shown in SD. I assume by now their cameras are good. So I think they're probably saving on bandwidth. When I lived in South NJ, a station showing Phila. Flyers games randomly showed in HD or SD without rhyme or reason. For me, since I didn't have that channel and since I'm not a Flyers fan, it wasn't a big deal. But my coworkers used to complain about it and I did feel bad for them - spending all this $ on HDTV and HD cable service and not being able to see their home team play on HD.

I see, so someone who wants to use VZ FiOS would probably better off bringing his own HD DVR to the table instead of renting it from VZ. My parents are going to rent a HD DVR from VZ when they activate FiOS service next week. Hopefully it won't be *that* bad. :eek:
I haven't got complaint one with any of their services. Internet, phone and HD are above my expectations, but the DVR is horrible compared to Dish's 622. The hard drive is small, reaction is slow when you hit buttons and some of the keys are inoperative. Dish's 622 has worked flawlessly and hasn't skipped a beat since I got it last year. I'm sure the new TIVO is as good if not better than the 622, but with an $800 price tag and a monthy bill to boot, I'll just suffer through the Motorola box and hope Verizon does something to alleviate everyone's pain.

How are you guys watching game 7 of the Stars/Canucks series in HD?

I have Time Warner and the games are not in HD on Versus.

Tonight the game seems to only be on KDFI, which is SD.

same here on Direct TV


edit: i take that back... looks like direct tv will start a broadcast at nine that might be in HD

Channel 95


How are you guys watching game 7 of the Stars/Canucks series in HD?

I have Time Warner and the games are not in HD on Versus.

Tonight the game seems to only be on KDFI, which is SD.

There's no great pleasure to be had watching Rob Schick and Co. bend the Stars over anyway...HD would just make it more painful.

Randy

I haven't got complaint one with any of their services. Internet, phone and HD are above my expectations, but the DVR is horrible compared to Dish's 622. The hard drive is small, reaction is slow when you hit buttons and some of the keys are inoperative. Dish's 622 has worked flawlessly and hasn't skipped a beat since I got it last year. I'm sure the new TIVO is as good if not better than the 622, but with an $800 price tag and a monthy bill to boot, I'll just suffer through the Motorola box and hope Verizon does something to alleviate everyone's pain.
I hope my parents don't get the same Motorola DVR. Not sure if VZ is giving all customers the same box or if it's based on time and region. We bought them a Pioneer (SD) DVR that they've been using for the past couple years, so they'll be able to directly compare that experience w/ whatever HD DVR VZ gives them next week.

Does anyone have a tip on which "dish" is better (if that is an option) and where should the dish be pointed for the DISH VIP622 HD (so I can make sure the installer has it pointing and set up properly)?

Just to clarify, I live in Plano and my current entry point is on the north face of my house.

Does anyone have a tip on which "dish" is better (if that is an option) and where should the dish be pointed for the DISH VIP622 HD (so I can make sure the installer has it pointing and set up properly)?

Just to clarify, I live in Plano and my current entry point is on the north face of my house.
I'm in Carrollton and have the Dish 1000 along with the 622. I believe the 1000 is the dish of choice around here, since you can pick-up the three satellites. Aiming has been a problem in the past for some, but when mine was installed late last year, the installer had no problem whatsoever.

Thanks JStew. I'll keep it in mind when I order.

I scrolled through the list of cities and there does not appear to be one for Beaumont, TX.

If there is anyone from there, can you tell me if there is a problem with NBC 4-1 digital transmissions?

I use a set-top antenna, and up until 2-3 weeks ago, I was able to pick up 4-1 as well as CBS 6-1.

6-1 is still there, but no 4-1.

I have had absolutely no luck picking up ABC and Fox, even though (I think) those transmitters are all in the same area.

I appreciate your help.

Thanks

Sorry for my last post.

I found the forum for Beaumont.

Hello everyone,

I'm returning to Texas from Colorado, after several years out of state.

I will be living in a new development in Las Colinas: La Villita.

. . . given that the development is so new, I've had difficulty gathering info from the online cable providers in the area, such as Verizon (FIOS), Comcast, etc.

Who is the best provider for HD in La Villita/Las Colinas?

Comcast? Verizon FIOS? Time Warner?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
N123

Hello everyone,

I'm returning to Texas from Colorado, after several years out of state.

I will be living in a new development in Las Colinas: La Villita.

. . . given that the development is so new, I've had difficulty gathering info from the online cable providers in the area, such as Verizon (FIOS), Comcast, etc.

Who is the best provider for HD in La Villita/Las Colinas?

Comcast? Verizon FIOS? Time Warner?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
N123
Dish

Hello everyone,

I'm returning to Texas from Colorado, after several years out of state.

I will be living in a new development in Las Colinas: La Villita.

. . . given that the development is so new, I've had difficulty gathering info from the online cable providers in the area, such as Verizon (FIOS), Comcast, etc.

Who is the best provider for HD in La Villita/Las Colinas?

Comcast? Verizon FIOS? Time Warner?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Thanks,
N123

If Verizon Fios is available - get it. The picture quality on both standard definition and high definition channels is far better than Time Warner. (formerly comcast)

The problem I have with Dish or DirecTV is the loss of signal during windy or rainy weather.

The problem I have with Dish or DirecTV is the loss of signal during windy or rainy weather.I've never had a problem with wind and DirecTV. You will lose signal in heavy rain, for sure. But that has only bitten me a few times in the last 6 years or so.

Now, it has been 6 years since I've had cable TV (back when it was AT&T)...but that went out way more often that directv ever did. My 2 cents...

If Verizon Fios is available - get it. The picture quality on both standard definition and high definition channels is far better than Time Warner. (formerly comcast)

The problem I have with Dish or DirecTV is the loss of signal during windy or rainy weather.

If anyone has frequent problems with wind and rain, its because their dish is poorly installed.
Fios has great picture quality but their DVRs are reported by many to suck big time.

A reminder for all of you Dish Network folks out there... your first opportunity to benefit from the new FSN SW HD channel (366 on your VIP receiver) is tomorrow night (Wed, May 2nd) as the Rangers take on the Yankees at 7p.

I came across an article today that talks about how antennas are becoming back in vogue, thanks to HDTV. The DirecTV guy in the article cracks me up.

HDTV Revives Rabbit Ears
Source: Tulsa World
Publication date: 2007-04-29
Arrival time: 2007-05-02

By JOE MILICIA Associated Press

Antennas allow consumers to enhance -- or ditch -- cable

CLEVELAND -- Buying an antenna for a high-definition television seems as out of place as using a rotary phone to make a call.

But some consumers are spending thousands of dollars on LCD or plasma TVs and hooking them up to $50 antennas that don't look much different from what grandpa had on top of his black-and-white picture tube.

They're not doing it for the nostalgia.

Local TV channels, broadcast in HD over-the-air, offer superior picture quality over the often-compressed signals sent by cable and satellite TV companies.

And the best part? Over-the-air HD is free.

"Eighty-year-old technology is being redesigned and rejiggered to deliver the best picture quality," said Richard Schneider, president of Antennas Direct. "It's an interesting irony."

A few years ago, Schneider started an assembly line in his garage and sold antennas out of the trunk of his car. Now his Eureka, Mo.- based company has seven employees and did $1.4 million in sales last year. He expects revenue to double in 2007.

"People thought I was nuts. They were laughing at me when I told them I was starting an antenna company," Schneider said.

Before cable and satellite existed, people relied on antennas to receive analog signals from local TV stations' broadcasting towers. Stations still send out analog signals, but most now transmit HD digital signals as well. (Congress has ordered broadcasters to shut off old-style analog TV broadcasts by Feb. 17, 2009.)

Consumers who can get a digital signal from an antenna will get an excellent picture, said Steve Wilson, principal analyst for consumer electronics at ABI Research.

One major difference with a digital over-the-air signal is it doesn't get snowy and fuzzy like the old analog signal. Instead, the picture will turn into tiny blocks and go black.

"You either get it or you don't," said Dale Cripps, founder and co-publisher of HDTV Magazine. "Some people can receive it with rabbit ears. It depends where you are."

Schneider recommends indoor antennas only for customers within 25 miles of a station's broadcast tower. An outdoor antenna will grab a signal from up to 70 miles away as long as no mountains are in the way, he said.

The Consumer Electronics Association has a Web site (www.antennaweb.org/) that tells how far an address is from towers and recommends what type of antenna to use.

"When you're using an antenna to get an HD signal you will be able to receive true broadcast-quality HD," said Megan Pollock, spokeswoman for the group. "Some of the cable and satellite companies may choose to compress the HD signal."

Compression involves removing some data from the digital signal. This is done so that the providers will have enough room to send hundreds of other channels through the same cable line or satellite transmission.

The difference in picture quality is a matter of opinion, said Robert Mercer, spokesman for satellite provider DirecTV Inc.

"We believe the DirecTV HD signal is superior to any source, whether it's over-the-air or from your friendly neighborhood cable company," Mercer said.

Others disagree.

Self-described TV fanatic Kevin Holtz, of suburban Cleveland, chose an antenna because he didn't want to pay his satellite provider extra for local broadcast channels.

Holtz, 30, can't get the signal from one local network affiliate or a public broadcasting station but said the rest of the stations come in clearer than they would through satellite. He uses a $60 antenna for a 40-inch Sony LCD, which retails for about $3,000.

"Over-the-air everything is perfect," Holtz said.

Another downside to using just an antenna is that only local channels are available, meaning no ESPN, TNT, CNN or Discovery Channel. Some consumers partner an antenna with cable or satellite service.

Many people aren't aware that they can get HD over the airwaves, Wilson said. He estimates there are 10 million households with HDTVs and that fewer than 2 million of them use antennas. Including homes with analog sets, 15 million of the 110 million households in the United States use antennas.

HD antenna prices range from $20 to $150 for indoor and outdoor versions. The many models of available indoor antennas look more like a fleet of spaceships than the rabbit ears of old. Brand names include Terk, Philips, Audiovox, Jensen and Magnavox.

Those really interested in saving a buck and who have a little MacGyver in them could make their own antenna. Steve Mezick of Portland, Ore., created one out of cardboard and tinfoil.

"I decided to build it because the design looked exceedingly simple. I scrounged up stuff around the house and put one together," said Mezick, a bowling alley mechanic who repairs pin spotters.

The 30-year-old has since upgraded his original design using a wire baking sheet, clothes hanger and wood. He mounted it to the side of his house and gets all of his local stations.

"It works brilliantly," he said.

www.antennasdirect.com

The good and bad of rabbit ears

Some of the pros and cons to using an antenna to receive high- definition TV signals:

Pros

It's free. After spending $20 to $150 on an antenna, there's no monthly fee to pay the cable or satellite company for an HD package, which costs about $10 a month.

Better picture quality. Many experts say over-the-air HD provides a clearer picture than what cable or satellite companies can provide because they compress the signal, removing data and degrading picture quality.

Cons

Reception issues. The ability to receive an over-the-air HD signal depends on an antenna's distance from local TV stations' broadcasting towers. The signal won't get snowy and fuzzy like the old analog signal. Instead, the picture will turn into tiny blocks and go black.

Only local channels. Channels like ESPN, TNT and Discovery Channel aren't available over-the-air.

(c) 2007 Tulsa World. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.

Finally, a Rangers game was in HD on Tuesday. And a fantastic game it was, too. But it was only because I went to the park and saw it in person. Sorry, I couldn't resist...I am ever hopeful that they will loosen the purse strings and broadcast in HD on 27.

Should have brought a baseball so my boy could get an autograph during the Yankee's batting practice.

FWIW, I got home just in time to see the Mavericks blow their lead then make a stunning comeback...and in HD. Now, if they can only recover to win the first round.

Finally, a Rangers game was in HD on Tuesday. And a fantastic game it was, too. But it was only because I went to the park and saw it in person. Sorry, I couldn't resist...I am ever hopeful that they will loosen the purse strings and broadcast in HD on 27.

Should have brought a baseball so my boy could get an autograph during the Yankee's batting practice.

FWIW, I got home just in time to see the Mavericks blow their lead then make a stunning comeback...and in HD. Now, if they can only recover to win the first round.
Weather cooperating, I'm going to see the Yankees/Rangers game on Thurs. evening. :cool:

Too bad another Yankees pitcher got hurt on Tues. The Yankees fired their strength/conditioning coach.

Weather cooperating, I'm going to see the Yankees/Rangers game on Thurs. evening. :cool:

Too bad another Yankees pitcher got hurt on Tues. The Yankees fired their strength/conditioning coach.

They show the day game (2:35p) as being on FSN and the night game (7:35p) on My27. Since last night's game was supposed to be done on FSN SW HD, I assume this afternoon's game would be in HD as well.

Then again, I'm sure dish network won't be on the ball and get their stuff updated to support showing it.

They show the day game (2:35p) as being on FSN and the night game (7:35p) on My27. Since last night's game was supposed to be done on FSN SW HD, I assume this afternoon's game would be in HD as well.

Then again, I'm sure dish network won't be on the ball and get their stuff updated to support showing it.
Yeah, who knows. But I'll be in Arlington tonight at the stadium to hopefully see the away team beat the home team! :cool: Apparently, they'll allow either yesterday's or today's ticket to see both games! But I can't miss work this afternoon, so I'll just see the originally scheduled 7:05 p.m. game. Go Moose (Mike Mussina)!

My folks in NJ got Verizon FiOS installed and activated yesterday at their house. They said the VZ service guy was there from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.!! Holy crap that's a long time. Is that typically the case?

Things went pretty well. They have HDTV, high-speed Internet, and VoIP - all switched over from their previous providers. One issue they ran into is that their old Pioneer DVR no longer works with VZ FiOS HDTV. Instead, they had to rent a DVR box. Why is that the case? When I fly back to NJ next month, I'll try to play around with it. So for now, their Pioneer DVR is now a glorified DVD player. :(

My folks in NJ got Verizon FiOS installed and activated yesterday at their house. They said the VZ service guy was there from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.!! Holy crap that's a long time. Is that typically the case?

Things went pretty well. They have HDTV, high-speed Internet, and VoIP - all switched over from their previous providers. One issue they ran into is that their old Pioneer DVR no longer works with VZ FiOS HDTV. Instead, they had to rent a DVR box. Why is that the case? When I fly back to NJ next month, I'll try to play around with it. So for now, their Pioneer DVR is now a glorified DVD player. :(
Dish also uses propriatary hardware and keep all the profits for themselves. The Fios DVR's have a reputation of not being very good in quality or user friendliness.

P.S. Finally FSSW in HD...hope tonight's game is also!

My folks in NJ got Verizon FiOS installed and activated yesterday at their house. They said the VZ service guy was there from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.!! Holy crap that's a long time. Is that typically the case?

Things went pretty well. They have HDTV, high-speed Internet, and VoIP - all switched over from their previous providers. One issue they ran into is that their old Pioneer DVR no longer works with VZ FiOS HDTV. Instead, they had to rent a DVR box. Why is that the case? When I fly back to NJ next month, I'll try to play around with it. So for now, their Pioneer DVR is now a glorified DVD player. :(

It was an all day installation for us too. The tech's are very nice though. Their DVR may work off of the Standard Def box, if they have one. Although, I recorded shows on my panasonic DVR (even HD programs...it didn't record them with the same PQ though)...I just don't remember how I handled the cabling. I think I took one of the outputs on the fios dvr box directly to my dvr, and then ran component to the TV from my DVR.

Did I ever mention that my parents live in NJ too? My father wanted lots of land so they retired to Galloway Township. They are visiting me over memorial day, and I plan on surprising them with my new HD setup. He's big on movies, so I think he'll be wowed when he sees his favorite movies upconverted.

My folks in NJ got Verizon FiOS installed and activated yesterday at their house. They said the VZ service guy was there from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.!! Holy crap that's a long time. Is that typically the case?

Things went pretty well. They have HDTV, high-speed Internet, and VoIP - all switched over from their previous providers. One issue they ran into is that their old Pioneer DVR no longer works with VZ FiOS HDTV. Instead, they had to rent a DVR box. Why is that the case? When I fly back to NJ next month, I'll try to play around with it. So for now, their Pioneer DVR is now a glorified DVD player. :(

I think it depends on who you get for the install. The guy we had was very bright and competent. I think he was done in about 4 hours. He had to run some new wires into my attic.

We got the "triple-play" of TV, Internet and Phone. The TV service is GREAT!
The set top boxes are the same as Comcast - the Motorola box. The HD DVR works well, but we've had to reset it a couple of times. I chalk that up to the fact it's basically a computer that's turned on all the time.

Regardless, I highly recommend Fios over either a satellite dish or cable.

Dish also uses propriatary hardware and keep all the profits for themselves. The Fios DVR's have a reputation of not being very good in quality or user friendliness.

P.S. Finally FSSW in HD...hope tonight's game is also!
I haven't spoken to my parents yet on FiOS. I spoke w/ my brother for a few minutes about it, but he was busy packing up to fly back to his house. I'll talk to my father this weekend and get the details on his FiOS service. There will obviously be a learning curve; hopefully not a very steep one!

It was an all day installation for us too. The tech's are very nice though. Their DVR may work off of the Standard Def box, if they have one. Although, I recorded shows on my panasonic DVR (even HD programs...it didn't record them with the same PQ though)...I just don't remember how I handled the cabling. I think I took one of the outputs on the fios dvr box directly to my dvr, and then ran component to the TV from my DVR.

Did I ever mention that my parents live in NJ too? My father wanted lots of land so they retired to Galloway Township. They are visiting me over memorial day, and I plan on surprising them with my new HD setup. He's big on movies, so I think he'll be wowed when he sees his favorite movies upconverted.
I am a little surprised that the VZ couldn't figure it out, since he's in that business. Then again, he might have been told by his boss to sell/rent out more DVRs, so he'd potentially have a conflict of interest.

My folks are in Morris County; not much available land there anymore, LOL.

The Yankees/Rangers game I attended last night was pretty cool. :cool: Lots of Yankees fans there; almost made me feel like I was in the Bronx. :D

I think it depends on who you get for the install. The guy we had was very bright and competent. I think he was done in about 4 hours. He had to run some new wires into my attic.

We got the "triple-play" of TV, Internet and Phone. The TV service is GREAT!
The set top boxes are the same as Comcast - the Motorola box. The HD DVR works well, but we've had to reset it a couple of times. I chalk that up to the fact it's basically a computer that's turned on all the time.

Regardless, I highly recommend Fios over either a satellite dish or cable.
Glad it went well for you. Since I live in AT&T territory here in FW, I don't think VZ will come for a while. After my Dish contract is up (about 13 mos. to go), I'll re-evaluate things. So far, Dish has disappointed me with its frequent outages and inability to regain the lost signal without manual intervention. :( After I get an HDTV, I might just say screw it and just go with OTA HD. By mid-2008, I assume OTA HD will be available for most free channels for most popular TV shows.

if you live in the Park Cities Area and have Charter Communications service, they will be adding 10 new HD channels on May 8th.

772 ESPN 2 HD
774 Fox Sports SW HD
782 CW HD
790 Starz HDTV
791 The Movie Channel
792 TNT
793 NBC Universal HD
794 Pay Per View HD
795 MOJO
799 MHD ( MTV Networks)

I'm a DirecTV subscriber with the HD TiVo receiver. I am using the OTA for my local HD channels because at the time I signed up, the local ABC affiliate (belo) was still holding out on signing with DirecTV.

In the last 3 weeks or so, I've noticed severe problems with the CBS affiliate's signal (11-1KTVT-DT). After another failed recording, I thought I would go check signal strength and such. The signal strenght averages around 25-30, and will every once in a while peak to 100 for a fraction of a second. For those of you used to listening to the tones generated during the signal strength test, this sounds like a nice little melody that is playing over the speakers.

Anyway.

Anyone know if there are issues with CBS's broadcast in Dallas? All other broadcasts are super clean.

Thanks.

dct2000 are now showing software version 74.02

Anyone know if there are issues with CBS's broadcast in Dallas?
I haven't had any problems. Always reliable for me. Where are you located?

I'm a DirecTV

Anyone know if there are issues with CBS's broadcast in Dallas? All other broadcasts are super clean.

Thanks.
Do you see the signal variations when using your TV tuner or is it only through the DVR?

Here are the results I got from antennaweb.org. I'm not very good with understanding this, so I was hoping you guys could take a look at this and give me some antenna options that would work for me.

Right now I am only using bunny ears inside my house and believe it or not I can pick up Fox, NBC, CBS, and 3 other HD channels pretty well. Would a better indoor antenna work for me to get everything, or should I only consider an outdoor antenna?

Also....is putting an outdoor (if that is what you guys recommend) in the attic a possibility?

Thanks for the help guys!

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/3562/antennaha2.jpg

"Also....is putting an outdoor (if that is what you guys recommend) in the attic a possibility?"

That is what I did and recommend. I simply supported it with twine from the rafters. No wind to worry about. Works great.

"Also....is putting an outdoor (if that is what you guys recommend) in the attic a possibility?"

That is what I did and recommend. I simply supported it with twine from the rafters. No wind to worry about. Works great.

If you hang in the attic, it is best to tie to the boom and not the elements.

Anyone else who has TWC have their ESPN HD and INHD channels disappear?

I called TWC and they said that now those channels have been moved into the "HD TIER" and will cost an extra $3/month to receive. I said "so I'm currently paying for the DVR HD package but am not getting any HD channels except the ones I could pick up w/ a $5 indoor antenna (Fox, NBC, etc)". They said there's nothing they can do.

So they're about to lose a $75/month customer over $3.

Anyone else who has TWC have their ESPN HD and INHD channels disappear?

I called TWC and they said that now those channels have been moved into the "HD TIER" and will cost an extra $3/month to receive. I said "so I'm currently paying for the DVR HD package but am not getting any HD channels except the ones I could pick up w/ a $5 indoor antenna (Fox, NBC, etc)". They said there's nothing they can do.

So they're about to lose a $75/month customer over $3.

Yep...old news, I'm afraid. They did this awhile back, then might have removed it...they then did it again a week or two ago for keeps, I guess. This has been discussed quite a bit here and over at broadbandreports. I thought I'd knuckled under (temporarily) on the $3 charge previously, but apparently they decided you can't add it to a former Comcast plan. So it appears they pulled it off of all the accounts that still had old Comcast plans (again without any warning), and I got the 'not authorized' message again.

I've been a pretty big detractor of TWC since they took over here, but I have to be fair. When I called about the new problem, I was lucky enough to get a very nice CSR that actually cared. She moved me over to a TWC plan, and when all is said and done (with specials and such) I'll have everything I had before, plus TMC, and my bill will be $17/month less than it was. I still don't care much for the way that TWC has treated people here, but the good, competent CSR saved the account for them...at least for the timebeing. Most of my specials are good for a year now, with the HBO/SHO/TMC deal being good for 6 months, all without a contract. At least that hasn't changed....and it gives me time to decide what I want to do for the long term...

Good luck...

Randy

"Also....is putting an outdoor (if that is what you guys recommend) in the attic a possibility?"

That is what I did and recommend. I simply supported it with twine from the rafters. No wind to worry about. Works great.
For attic installations, is it still required or recommended to properly ground the antenna?

I was wondering it anyone else was having problems with OTA HD reception after the storms that occurred during the week of April 30, 2007. My power was off for about 12 hours. When everything was restored, I was able to receive all the OTA HD channels in the DFW area except the ones from WFAA (8-1, 8-2). I have run numerous diagnostics and can not find any problems with my systems or setup. The antenna is located in the attic so the winds should not have affected it. Prior to the storms, reception was perfect.

WFAA (8-1) worked fine for me last night during the 10p news.

For attic installations, is it still required or recommended to properly ground the antenna?
If lightning goes through your roof to your antenna, grounding is the least of your problems!

I was wondering it anyone else was having problems with OTA HD reception after the storms that occurred during the week of April 30, 2007. My power was off for about 12 hours. When everything was restored, I was able to receive all the OTA HD channels in the DFW area except the ones from WFAA (8-1, 8-2). I have run numerous diagnostics and can not find any problems with my systems or setup. The antenna is located in the attic so the winds should not have affected it. Prior to the storms, reception was perfect.

Unplug your TV for a while and then, when reconnected, rescan for channels.

ESPN 2 and Soapnet are added to TWC in Garland.

Does anybody's cable provider offer Fox Sports HD? I didn't know this channel even existed until I looked around online earlier.

I was wondering it anyone else was having problems with OTA HD reception after the storms that occurred during the week of April 30, 2007. My power was off for about 12 hours. When everything was restored, I was able to receive all the OTA HD channels in the DFW area except the ones from WFAA (8-1, 8-2). I have run numerous diagnostics and can not find any problems with my systems or setup. The antenna is located in the attic so the winds should not have affected it. Prior to the storms, reception was perfect.I, too, am having WFAA problems, with other channels working fine. This is both with a brand new Samsung DLP TV (internal tuner) and a long-working (and power cycled) TiVo HR10-250.

I'm trying to locate the frequency mapping so that I can do a signal test on the HR10-250; the Samsung shows only one bar for WFAA and frequent picture breakups.

Edited to add: My problem isn't that the channels aren't in my list; it's that the strength is very low compared to other channels in the area. This is with a large outdoor yagi, and I'm 40-odd miles from the towers.

BradI

Follow up: My problem turned out to be an bad cable connection at my indoor splitter behind the set. I'm now getting very high strength on WFAA.

Weird.

Brad

Does anybody's cable provider offer Fox Sports HD? I didn't know this channel even existed until I looked around online earlier.

I'm pretty sure Verizon Fios does. Just became available to my area a few days ago.

I'm pretty sure Verizon Fios does. Just became available to my area a few days ago.

I can confirm that Fios has had FSN SW in HD for quite some time. It's only on the air when they offer an HD program which is usually about once a week.

Does anybody's cable provider offer Fox Sports HD? I didn't know this channel even existed until I looked around online earlier.
Dish and Direct do, but as with FIOS, the programming is limited. With sat. the bandwith is shared with other RSN's.

If lightning goes through your roof to your antenna, grounding is the least of your problems!
LOL I was thinking the same thing. :eek:

I have a Samsung 4273 plasma and just recently (sometime after the bad storms) noticed I can't get WFAA HD to show up at all. Not just a bad picture, but everytime I scan for Air channels it never comes up. I know I've gotten it fine before, as I watched a few bball games on it weeks ago.

Tried unplugging the antenna for awhile and then plugging it back in and rescaning, but no luck.

Another question is whether or not I can manually enter 8.1 or 8.2 into remote to go to either channel, even if its not in my channel list. I've tried this but it won't go to either channel. I've tried doing "4-1" and that will work as with any other HD channel, so does that mean if an HD channel doesn't show up on your channel list you can't even manually tune to it?

Any help?

This may or may not work for those having troubles with WFAA, but it something I've mentioned in the past that has helped others in similar situations...unplug your antenna, do a rescan, then plug your antenna back in and scan again. It may not do a thing for you, but it is worth a shot...

Good luck!
Randy

Anyone having problems with the local HD channels through Time Warner Plano? I'm getting a lot of banding followed by signal loss through component cables. The picture will reset after a few seconds, it will look good for a few seconds, then start over.

Through an HDMI cable I get a picture for about 15 seconds (no banding) then a green screen. I have to change video inputs to restore the HDMI. This only happens on the local HD channels, not HBO, Discovery or TNT HD. If this is a Time Warner problem I can't be the only one experiencing it. Anybody else having this problem?

Threads merged.

I have recently moved to Southmayd, TX ( 8 miles west of Sherman ) got Dish 1000 only get CBS, NBC, FOX but no ABC. I am looking for an OffAir antenna that will pull in Dallas stations ( 75 miles south of me ).. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

I have recently moved to Southmayd, TX ( 8 miles west of Sherman ) got Dish 1000 only get CBS, NBC, FOX but no ABC. I am looking for an OffAir antenna that will pull in Dallas stations ( 75 miles south of me ).. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Take a look at this thread:
http://www.highdefforum.com/showthread.php?t=14818

You are going to need a tall mast, big antenna, and good amplifier. I would subscribe to Dish locals if I were you. If you have a 622 DVR, you can record 3 HD shows at once!

I've been a pretty big detractor of TWC since they took over here, but I have to be fair. When I called about the new problem, I was lucky enough to get a very nice CSR that actually cared. She moved me over to a TWC plan, and when all is said and done (with specials and such) I'll have everything I had before, plus TMC, and my bill will be $17/month less than it was. I still don't care much for the way that TWC has treated people here, but the good, competent CSR saved the account for them...at least for the timebeing.

Randy

IMHO, it seems that most of these providers have terrible business models. I think their churn would be much less if they applied common sense. Dish is another poorly run company that does not value their long term and on-time paying customers. After leaving Dish for a couple of months, I tried to re-sign up with the current specials...nope, wait the full six months and then you can get the special offerings. Sign up now, and it is $249 for the VIP 622 and full price for all of the programing, even with a long-term conract. Some may say I should have stayed with Dish, and they would be wrong. When I wanted to upgrade to a DVR, I had to go all the way up the chain, just to avoid paying the $150 (I believe at the time) for the unit. The same thing happened to a co-worker. We want the services they have to offer, and are willing to pay the higher monthly programming fees. So why wouldn't they provide the equipment in order to grow revenues? Because once we are customers they believe we are second class citzens, which is why TW is so willing to bait and switch the line ups. I sent an e-mail to Dish customer service...they stand by their policy...keep standing on that sinking ship. I applaud the FIOS and AT&T roll outs, as they will eventually suck the life blood from these inept providers, or force them to respect where their revenue comes from...if only Verizon can fix their guide and STB issues. Meanwhile, I am saving $75 per month, and they are losing another customer.

I have recently moved to Southmayd, TX ( 8 miles west of Sherman ) got Dish 1000 only get CBS, NBC, FOX but no ABC. I am looking for an OffAir antenna that will pull in Dallas stations ( 75 miles south of me ).. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
You will need an antennas direct 91 XG or a CM4228 antenna for UHF, that should get you most of the DFW stations, except for WFAA-DT (the ABC station!) which is transmitted on channel 9 in VHF-hi. Then you need to add a VHF-hi antenna for WFAA (and after 2009, for the DFW CBS station which is moving back to channel 11). Maybe a Winegard YA1713.
VHF/UHF combo antennas don't perform as well as the separate antennas...

Mount your two antennas as high as you can. Use a CM7777 preamp to couple the two antennas together.

You are in a deep-fringe area and so your reception can vary a lot depending on your exact location. But if a 91xg/YA1713 does not work for you then probably nothing will....

Is CBS wacked for anyone else? I'm getting radically fluctuating signal strengths, causing me to lose lock pretty frequently.

Is CBS wacked for anyone else? I'm getting radically fluctuating signal strengths, causing me to lose lock pretty frequently.

Anyone having problems with the local HD channels through Time Warner Plano?...
... This only happens on the local HD channels, not HBO, Discovery or TNT HD. If this is a Time Warner problem I can't be the only one experiencing it. Anybody else having this problem?

I'm in Richardson, but I think our service area is the same. Yes, I have seen the digital side go in and out over the last few days. Note that we just got our HD set (nice deal on a DLP Toshiba), and I've been relying on the QAM tuner, as we have no STB's or CC devices yet (saving up for an S3 TiVo! :D ). At first I thought it was the set, and I've done dozens of rescans in the last few days. But the last time it went out, the on screen message was "no signal lock" ... I'm new to the DTV/HDTV thing, but that sounds like a signal strength message to me. I'm playing the cable swapping game tonight in between rescans, just in case.

Also, when the QAM DTV has worked, I've see the strength bars vary on an hourly basis for most of the channels.

Otherwise, I've been *amazed* by the picture, I guess enough to not complain yet to TWC... we only have analog cable anyway, and I don't know if clear QAM reception is guaranteed with it.

I hope other folks report in?

Is CBS wacked for anyone else? I'm getting radically fluctuating signal strengths, causing me to lose lock pretty frequently.

My buddy if Fort Worth, in apartment, was complaining about the same thing earlier tonight. He says it's better now.

I've just sent the following note to the local Time Warner President/General Manager:
-------------------------------

I'm sorry to be contacting you to share two problems, one of which is minor but the other is an unethical business practice that is causing me to seek service elsewhere and to recommend that to others.

The minor problem is that if you set a DVR to record a series on a digital channel, Comedy Central for example, it will eventually switch to the analog version of that channel. The problem occurs if there are two versions of a channel with the same NAME. In this example, if you set a series to record on digital channel 262, it will eventually switch to analog channel 64 because the two channels have the same NAME.

The real reason that I'm writing, though, is because of an unethical business practice that you have just implemented. Beginning this weekend we could only receive INHD and HDNET intermittently. Sometimes we get a message NOT AUTHORIZED, sometimes we get a picture and no sound, sometimes it works normally. Since this seems like a glitch at your transmitter I just spoke to customer service. The rep informed me that what we have been getting for the last six months or more was "a preview", that it was a service that "Comcast provided for free", and that "we should have received a letter three or four months ago" telling us that this service might go away. He also said we could get those channels back for an additional fee!

We don't believe we ever got the letter he referred to, there is nothing on your website that discusses this, and this is a very shoddy way of doing business. The minor fee for those channels isn't driving us away from Time-Warner. But the unethical and crude way of dealing with your subscribers is causing us to explore alternatives and to wish that U-Verse was already available at our address.
------------------------------------

My challenge in finding an alternative prior to U-Verse availability, is that we have five TV's and the satellite advertisements usually feature up to four connections.

I've just sent the following note to the local Time Warner President/General Manager:
-------------------------------
...
------------------------------------

My challenge in finding an alternative prior to U-Verse availability, is that we have five TV's and the satellite advertisements usually feature up to four connections.
Give 'em hell!!! DOWN WITH CABLE!!!

BTW, you can get more than 4 TVs on satellite. You just need a multiswitch...not a big deal. The bigger deal is that they charge ~5 bucks/month per receiver (beyond the first one).

Give 'em hell!!! DOWN WITH CABLE!!!

BTW, you can get more than 4 TVs on satellite. You just need a multiswitch...not a big deal. The bigger deal is that they charge ~5 bucks/month per receiver (beyond the first one).


I've received a call from a service rep. She put me on some bundled package (they're hard to find online if you're an existing customer). Then was able to give me a discount for being a nice guy. :)

She also said they plan to add more HD channels to the HD tier over the coming year and the expectation is that they'll be included in the price.

To get to the bundles you have to go to "Order Services Online", not "Prices and Packages".

During the process I noticed that TWC is providing 7Mbps download speeds where Comcast had been providing 6Mbps service. I haven't checked the speeds in a while and I don't know when TWC increased the speed, but I will be checking it now.

A couple of other glitches turned up. The rep left me her name and extension, but there seems to be no way to get back to her. And viewing my statement online and clicking "Details" actually shows less information than the summary! She should be getting that fixed too.

During the process I noticed that TWC is providing 7Mbps download speeds where Comcast had been providing 6Mbps service. I haven't checked the speeds in a while and I don't know when TWC increased the speed, but I will be checking it now.

You wouldn't notice it anyway, but Comcast's 6Mbps advertised service was "net of overhead", while TWC's 7Mbps is "gross modem speed". To put it another way, it should work out to be about the same speed in the real world, just two different ways of advertising the same thing.

You wouldn't notice it anyway, but Comcast's 6Mbps advertised service was "net of overhead", while TWC's 7Mbps is "gross modem speed". To put it another way, it should work out to be about the same speed in the real world, just two different ways of advertising the same thing.

You're right that for the things we do, at those speeds we would not usually notice the difference. But I do run speed tests periodically and have for years. The speeds I measured today and tonight are faster than any speeds I've ever measured before, including tests that I did with RoadRunner in February and March of this year. I've just tested download speeds of close to 7Mbps. With Comcast the best I ever saw was something approaching 6Mbps.

I use several speed test engines, but the one I tend to prefer is http://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/ because it gives us the most direct access to the test server from here.

You will need an antennas direct 91 XG or a CM4228 antenna for UHF, that should get you most of the DFW stations, except for WFAA-DT (the ABC station!) which is transmitted on channel 9 in VHF-hi. Then you need to add a VHF-hi antenna for WFAA (and after 2009, for the DFW CBS station which is moving back to channel 11). Maybe a Winegard YA1713.
VHF/UHF combo antennas don't perform as well as the separate antennas...

Mount your two antennas as high as you can. Use a CM7777 preamp to couple the two antennas together.

You are in a deep-fringe area and so your reception can vary a lot depending on your exact location. But if a 91xg/YA1713 does not work for you then probably nothing will....

Although I am in Plano, my CM4228 does a fine job of pulling in WFAA-DT, which is currently on VHF-high channel 9. I don't need an amplifier, and my antenna is above my chimney, single story house.

Although I am in Plano, my CM4228 does a fine job of pulling in WFAA-DT, which is currently on VHF-high channel 9. I don't need an amplifier, and my antenna is above my chimney, single story house.

I'm in Parker just east of Allen, 40 miles from Cedar Hill, and also have a CM4228, which as you say does a great job of receiving WFAA on VHF 9, even though it is a UHF antenna. But the OP is west of Sherman, 75 miles from the antenna farm at Cedar Hill, and will need a "real" VHF antenna at that distance.

I haven't had any problems. Always reliable for me. Where are you located?

I'm in Flower Mound. I did try doing the clear channel suggestion and that did not seem to help. I'm going to go purchase a new splitter tomorrow and see if that fixes the issue.

Thanks for the tips, and I will let you know!

Welp, I replaced both diplexers and the problem seems better, but I still have 3-5 second intervals of pixelation and distortion.

Thinking of calling DirecTV and telling them to put the bigger dish up on the roof and keeping the Off-Air as backup.

Welp, I replaced both diplexers and the problem seems better, but I still have 3-5 second intervals of pixelation and distortion.

Thinking of calling DirecTV and telling them to put the bigger dish up on the roof and keeping the Off-Air as backup.

This may not actually address your channel 11 problems, but DirecTV will allow you to view the New York HD feeds for CBS, NBC, and FOX as those stations in the DFW area are owned by their respective networks. ABC isn't included because it is owned by Belo. All you need to do is call DirecTV and request those 3 New York channels be added to your profile (channels 80, 82, and 88) BTW - I live a bit northeast of Flower Mound in Hickory Creek and also have a few problems with channel 11...I generally TIVO from the New York CBS feed on channel 80.

This may not actually address your channel 11 problems, but DirecTV will allow you to view the New York HD feeds for CBS, NBC, and FOX as those stations in the DFW area are owned by their respective networks. ABC isn't included because it is owned by Belo. All you need to do is call DirecTV and request those 3 New York channels be added to your profile (channels 80, 82, and 88) BTW - I live a bit northeast of Flower Mound in Hickory Creek and also have a few problems with channel 11...I generally TIVO from the New York CBS feed on channel 80.

Is the addition of 80, 82, and 88 free?

Thanks.

Is the addition of 80, 82, and 88 free?
Yes. I get them and do not subscribe to the HD package.

Yes. I get them and do not subscribe to the HD package.

Excellent. Do I have to add the East ones, or can I add the West ones (or both?) instead?

Excellent. Do I have to add the East ones, or can I add the West ones (or both?) instead?
Pretty sure you don't have a choice and can only get East coast.
BTW, this works out great during football season. Often times, the east coast feeds are showing different games than the DFW locals. You might get 4 different games at once.

He's big on movies, so I think he'll be wowed when he sees his favorite movies upconverted.

Upconversion does look nice, but now I’m spoiled after having HD DVD for a few months. I was actually in the market for a good upconverting DVD Player when I realized I could get the Xbox 360 HD DVD add-on for $200. It came with King Kong and a remote, both I would have purchased anyway, and when those items are considered the device only cost me $140. I do wish I would’ve waited a little while; now you can walk into Circuit City and get a Toshiba stand-alone HD DVD player for $299 with NINE free (4 from CC at the store and 5 from Toshiba via mail) HD DVDs. Considering the fact that HD DVDs run $20 to $25 that player would only cost about $90 if you planned on buying the nine movies anyway. I only have a few HD DVDs, but they look so nice I end up playing them all the time.

On the topic of Fiber to the curb does anyone know what locales are covered by AT&T’s U-Verse? I’m in Garland and was waiting for Fios with baited breath, but now my job has moved and so I must move to the west side of the Metroplex. I would really like to get the high-bandwidth, uncompressed, HDTV of a fiber service like U-Verse, but I can’t find a map to see where AT&T has laid fiber and where (and when) they plan to lay future fiber. Does anyone know where this information is available?

On the topic of Fiber to the curb does anyone know what locales are covered by AT&T’s U-Verse? I’m in Garland and was waiting for Fios with baited breath, but now my job has moved and so I must move to the west side of the Metroplex. I would really like to get the high-bandwidth, uncompressed, HDTV of a fiber service like U-Verse, but I can’t find a map to see where AT&T has laid fiber and where (and when) they plan to lay future fiber. Does anyone know where this information is available?

Why does it have to be U-Verse? FIOS is in a lot of places. The last from the last Press Release (http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-expands-ultra-fast.html) lists all kinds of lovely places to live in the metroplex that you can get FIOS service at:


anything Verizon customers in Argyle, Bartonville, Copper Canyon and Justin want to do on the Internet -- from gaming to movies to video conferencing to Web surfing, e-mail and shopping -- just got easier and faster than ever.
...
In addition to the four new markets, Verizon offers FiOS voice, high-speed data and television to its customers in Allen, Carrollton, Colleyville, Coppell, Corinth, Denton, Double Oak, Flower Mound, northern Fort Worth, Garland, Grapevine, Hebron, Highland Village, Irving, Keller, Lucas, Murphy, Lewisville, Parker, Plano, Rowlett, Sachse, Southlake, St. Paul, Westlake and Wylie.

^ I live in "northern Fort Worth", but to my knowledge, VZ FiOS is not available in my area (yet?). :(

Why does it have to be U-Verse? FIOS is in a lot of places. The last from the last lists all kinds of lovely places to live in the metroplex that you can get FIOS service at:


I'd love to have the Verizon Fios, but I'm an NFL fan and subscribe to the NFL Sunday Ticket. I be hosed. I'm going to call DirecTV and get them to put the new dish on the house and I'll suck it up.

Hey guys, I'm in the process of putting together a HTPC and am having some trouble with reception. The only channels I really care about are FOX, NBC, CBS, and ABC. I get signal strength of 94 with FOX, NBC, and CBS, but for some reason I am getting a signal strength of 0 for ABC.

I do realize that ABC is the only VTF out of the four, but my antenna is a UTF/VTF combination. Also, on antennaweb, and the beyondtv guide, ABC is listed as channel 8, but I see people reffering to it in this thread as channel 9. Which one is it, and if 9, how do I get beyondtv to try 9 instead of 8?

I've spent hours trying to get this to work, and any help anyone could offer would be very appreciated. Thanks!

WFAA's digital channel is on physical channel 9. If you think about it, it couldn't be on channel 8, since that's where WFAA's analog channel is.

However, that analog channel can help you (the one bad thing about when they shut down the analog signals). The analog and digital signals come from the same place. So hook your antenna to an analog tuner, and see what you get on channel 8. Try to get the best signal you can, with a minimum of ghosting. The digital signal can handle noise, but isn't very good at multi-path. Multi-path shows as ghosting on the analog signal. If you don't get a signal on channel 8, you probably aren't getting one on channel 9.

(BTW, it's "VHF," which stands for (believe it or not) "very high frequency," and "UHF," which stands for "ultra high frequency.")

Xesdeeni

Hey guys, I'm in the process of putting together a HTPC and am having some trouble with reception. The only channels I really care about are FOX, NBC, CBS, and ABC. I get signal strength of 94 with FOX, NBC, and CBS, but for some reason I am getting a signal strength of 0 for ABC.

I do realize that ABC is the only VTF out of the four, but my antenna is a UTF/VTF combination. Also, on antennaweb, and the beyondtv guide, ABC is listed as channel 8, but I see people reffering to it in this thread as channel 9. Which one is it, and if 9, how do I get beyondtv to try 9 instead of 8?

I've spent hours trying to get this to work, and any help anyone could offer would be very appreciated. Thanks!
What's your zip code and what antenna do you have??

I just read in "Home Theater" mag. that Cleveland (of all cities) is the first to have 3 different stations broadcast their local news in HD. And we in the D/FW area still have just 1 (ABC). :rolleyes: No biggie for me since I don't have an HDTV yet. But that will change sometime this summer. :cool:

I can get HDNet and MOJO video over unencrypted QAM, but I don't get the audio for both of these channels. (I have not subscribed for these channels, however.) Anyone have the same (mis)fortune?

I can get HDNet and MOJO video over unencrypted QAM, but I don't get the audio for both of these channels. (I have not subscribed for these channels, however.) Anyone have the same (mis)fortune?

When they started charging separately fro them a while ago that was one of the symptoms that we had, intermittently, when we weren't paying for them.

This may not actually address your channel 11 problems, but DirecTV will allow you to view the New York HD feeds for CBS, NBC, and FOX as those stations in the DFW area are owned by their respective networks. ABC isn't included because it is owned by Belo. All you need to do is call DirecTV and request those 3 New York channels be added to your profile (channels 80, 82, and 88) BTW - I live a bit northeast of Flower Mound in Hickory Creek and also have a few problems with channel 11...I generally TIVO from the New York CBS feed on channel 80.

I thought you had to apply for a waiver from the local affiliates and go through a painful process to get those NY HD feeds. Are you saying that you can just call up DirecTV and they'll turn them on for you? If it's that easy I'll do it.

<Edit>: I called D*TV and was told that this is definitely a no go if you have the newer equipment with the 5 LNB dish. They will not add any of the NY HD locals since the DFW locals are available in HD, even though the quality of some of the DFW HD locals from D*TV is highly suspect. Was worth giving it a shot though I guess.

Hi all,

I live in Allen, and for the last couple (at least) of weeks I have been unable to get a OTA signal for WFAA (8.1). Has anyone else experienced a loss of signal for this channel? I know it's the only digital channel in the VHF spectrum (instead of the UHF), but I've always had a strong signal for all my channels, including VHF 9. My antenna is hanging inside the attic with a powered amp on it. I haven't changed anything, but now the channel is gone, all other channels appear just as strong as always. I've done a digital channel rescan on my TV (Sony KDF60XBR950) but I still can't find a signal. My antenna is a 160" 57 element UHF/VHF/FM. Anyone have any ideas or similar experience?

Thanks,
//Robert

Hi all,

I live in Allen, and for the last couple (at least) of weeks I have been unable to get a OTA signal for WFAA (8.1). Has anyone else experienced a loss of signal for this channel? I know it's the only digital channel in the VHF spectrum (instead of the UHF), but I've always had a strong signal for all my channels, including VHF 9. My antenna is hanging inside the attic with a powered amp on it. I haven't changed anything, but now the channel is gone, all other channels appear just as strong as always. I've done a digital channel rescan on my TV (Sony KDF60XBR950) but I still can't find a signal. My antenna is a 160" 57 element UHF/VHF/FM. Anyone have any ideas or similar experience?

Thanks,
//Robert

Try a rescan for channels without your antenna connected. Then reconnect and scan again.

I just read in "Home Theater" mag. that Cleveland (of all cities) is the first to have 3 different stations broadcast their local news in HD. And we in the D/FW area still have just 1 (ABC). :rolleyes: No biggie for me since I don't have an HDTV yet. But that will change sometime this summer. :cool:

If that makes you sad consider the fact that the Sherman-Ada market had local HD news six months prior to Dallas.

Why does it have to be U-Verse? FIOS is in a lot of places. The last from the last Press Release (http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-expands-ultra-fast.html) lists all kinds of lovely places to live in the metroplex that you can get FIOS service at:

Fios is fine, in fact fly-by-night fiber corporation would be fine. I asked for an AT&T rollout map because I couldn’t find one and since I can find a Fios map I didn’t need to ask for one of those.

If that makes you sad consider the fact that the Sherman-Ada market had local HD news six months prior to Dallas.

No, Sherman-Ada does not have HD news at all. Titan TV lists KXII news as HD, but it is in fact standard definition.

Oh boy...after reading a lot of the questions and responses, I am QUITE inexperienced in all this. I just have a simple question, and if this is the wrong forum, please just direct me. I have seen how people are on forums, and frankly, I just have a question--not here to disrupt.

OK Disclaimer aside. I live in an apartment complex that offers free cable. No big deal. I used to have a Poloroid 40" LCD TV, then after kicking the ole boyfriend out, he took it with him. Well, of course I had to one up and bought a 42" RCA HDTV. It is a 720p, no big deal....but during the channel setup, it got analog and digital channels....like TNT being 107.2 and weird channels, now having learned they are called SUBchannels, haha, I am even more lost.

My question: What is the deal?? Are these HD channels, the 100+ channels and the 80.X channels?? I get all the MusicMatch (or whatever they are called channels....) also displayed as a D channel....

I do not pay for ANYTHING, I just plugged the bloody thing in. I do not have a HD receiver or any cable box whatsoever.

So, being at the current caliber of understanding that I am, you can see where I am very confused, and trying to google a channel listing is near impossible...

Thanks for any help at all, and like I said...a bit of a newbie. LOL.

PS Sorry for the messy edit, but it may help to know that I am in the Irving area...any thoughts?

There's no standard for cable lineups. They expect that customers will use their boxes, which hide all the gory details.

Each frequency on which they used to put one analog channel can hold many digital channels. The number to the left of the decimal (or dash) is the physical channel number. The number to the right is the subchannel.

If they put just music on the subchannels, I've seen 50+, since music doesn't have much data. Standard definition takes more space than music, so you might see 10 or so of those. (Now you can see why they are trying to switch from analog to digital.)

HD is the same format as the over-the-air (OTA) in data. But because they are on cable, they can fit twice as much per channel. In other words, CBS here in Dallas uses almost all their digital OTA signal (almost the whole 19.2 Mbps). But on cable, that's only half a channel. So the cable company might put an additional 5 SD channels, 25 or so music channels, or they might pair another HD channel with CBS.

Your TV's tuner can tune in any of the above...so long as they aren't encrypted. Since the cable company wants you to rent their box, they usually encrypt pretty much everything they can. Legally, they are supposed to leave the local OTA channels unencrypted (in the clear). (Some cable companies argue that the legal language is ambiguous and encrypt even the locals, but I don't believe we have any of those jerks here in Dallas.) And they sometimes leave some channels unencrypted--usually the channels you don't want (advertising the cable company, etc.).

So whether a channel you tune is music, SD, or HD depends on what the cable company put there. So do a scan, and then look for channels that you can actually view (the others are encrypted). Jot down the channel numbers (channel + subchannel) and then figure out which channels you get.

My father-in-law gets the locals, TNT-HD, Discover-HD, HDNet, and InHD (there may be one more I'm forgetting).

But please remember, they can and will move the channels around whenever they feel like it. So if you sit down to watch your favorite show and the channel is blank, or has the wrong network, it's time to do another scan and figure out where they've moved things.

Xesdeeni

Try a rescan for channels without your antenna connected. Then reconnect and scan again.

Hey.. thanks for the suggestion. I never thought about trying a scan without any signal. I tried this last night, but still no luck. I also, temporarily lost just 5.1 when I did this. The TV seem to get stuck telling my channel 5.1 was now located on 41.1. I would click ok to close the warning and then the TV would switch to 41.1 and get "NO SIGNAL". Then I would change to some other channel (e.g., 27.1) and then back to 41.1 and it would tell me 41.1 is now located on 5.1. This pretty much repeated three or four times. Then I did a scan using the digital guide scanner, and that seemed to fix it so that 5.1 actually showed up.

Do you know of any differences between the digital channel scan initiated from the regular Menu, and the Digital Guide menu? It definitely seems to behave slightly different when it comes to actually detecting channels.. In either event I still get no 8.1. I'm wondering if my amp is no longer working.

Thanks,
//Robert

Wow....you guys know your stuff. That was pretty informative. I am only 32 years old, but feel like a dinosaur!!

I think I will just stick to the free stuff and do a scan every so often to see if things have changed. Of course, that inner "Bart Simpson" is wanting to find ways to hack into more things, but at my expertise, I would be impressed if I could even turn ON a cable box...

Thanks again!

I live in Frisco and just got an HD TV. Went to Radio Shack and bought their amplified HD Antenna for around $49. Hooked it up in my attic and get everything. I even get Ch 12 out of Oklahoma and at night, a channel 10 comes in from Waco.

If there is a better antenna, please let me know. I get very strong reception with my current antenna from Radio Shack believe it or not.

I live in Frisco and just got an HD TV. Went to Radio Shack and bought their amplified HD Antenna for around $49. Hooked it up in my attic and get everything. I even get Ch 12 out of Oklahoma and at night, a channel 10 comes in from Waco.

If there is a better antenna, please let me know. I get very strong reception with my current antenna from Radio Shack believe it or not.

Can you share the model # of the antenna?

I couldn't find a model number on it. It seems to be their generic HD antenna. It wasn't even located in the antenna section at the store I bought it at. It's about the size of an outdoor speaker. I have been surprised that it has worked so well. I put it in the attic and had to turn it a few times to get the maximum reception, but I am getting a 90% + on all DFW stations, some at 96% to 100%, except Channel 8. It only comes in at around 84%, but still good.

Hope this helps.

I couldn't find a model number on it. It seems to be their generic HD antenna.

Based on the earlier noted price and your description, it sounds like Model: DA-5200 Catalog #: 15-2186 (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2253765)

Thanks, that is it exactly. I have been pleased with it so far.

Hey guys I am using an antenna to get all the local stations over the air in HD. I have noticed that with channel 27.1 (myTV) the sound is a slightly ahead of the picture. Anyone else having this problem as well or am I the only one? Am I just simply receiving the sound transmission quicker than the picture transmission? Thanks ahead of time for any help.

Your TV's tuner can tune in any of the above...so long as they aren't encrypted. Since the cable company wants you to rent their box, they usually encrypt pretty much everything they can. Legally, they are supposed to leave the local OTA channels unencrypted (in the clear). (Some cable companies argue that the legal language is ambiguous and encrypt even the locals, but I don't believe we have any of those jerks here in Dallas.) And they sometimes leave some channels unencrypted--usually the channels you don't want (advertising the cable company, etc.).

Xesdeeni


I'm not so sure about that....

I live in the Ft. Worth area and have Verizon FiOS for TV & Internet. The internet service is great, but the TV service is very lacking as far as being able to play around on it without their equipment. They encrypt CBS and FOX, even though I thought this was illegal. I've confirmed this by going into the diag menu on the box itself, and also by hooking up the cable to a KWorld PCI 115 QAM tuner on my computer. It has a lock icon next to those channels. Needless to say, this royally pisses me off because I live on the bottom floor of my apartment and can't really pick up much with an antenna.

I think I'm going to call Time Warner and see how much a basic cable line is. Many have reported that they carry the OTA stations on even their basic line. I hope I can have FiOS AND conventional cable in the same apartment. I imagine it would just be a matter of running another line.

I'm not so sure about that....

I live in the Ft. Worth area and have Verizon FiOS for TV & Internet. The internet service is great, but the TV service is very lacking as far as being able to play around on it without their equipment. They encrypt CBS and FOX, even though I thought this was illegal. I've confirmed this by going into the diag menu on the box itself, and also by hooking up the cable to a KWorld PCI 115 QAM tuner on my computer. It has a lock icon next to those channels. Needless to say, this royally pisses me off because I live on the bottom floor of my apartment and can't really pick up much with an antenna.

I think I'm going to call Time Warner and see how much a basic cable line is. Many have reported that they carry the OTA stations on even their basic line. I hope I can have FiOS AND conventional cable in the same apartment. I imagine it would just be a matter of running another line.

Unless FIOS isn't considered a cable service they are required to carry the local broadcast stations and make them available to all subscribers. See the FCC Federal Regulations at http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/09nov20051500/edocket.access.gpo.gov/cfr_2005/octqtr/pdf/47cfr76.56.pdf
Especially section 76.56 7(d) on pages 567-568.

Thank you very much for that information, bernie33. After making damn sure I cannot get those channels (so I don't make an a$$ of myself), I might file a complaint with the FCC and see if I can get this resolved. Of course, I don't expect anything to happen overnight.

How is a geek going to prove I can't get those channels? Take pictures of the diagnostics screen with the encryption flag set? Send in a TSReader report showing that the channels are locked? This is going to be goofy at best.

Thank you very much for that information, bernie33. After making damn sure I cannot get those channels (so I don't make an a$$ of myself), I might file a complaint with the FCC and see if I can get this resolved. Of course, I don't expect anything to happen overnight.

How is a geek going to prove I can't get those channels? Take pictures of the diagnostics screen with the encryption flag set? Send in a TSReader report showing that the channels are locked? This is going to be goofy at best.

Have you already checked with Verizon?

I used to work for a call center for a cable company. I can only imagine what that conversation would be like, talking to one of the peon reps like I was. Tier I is no place to get answers. I imagine it'd go something like this:

"Hello, I can't seem to get any of the local stations unencrypted from just the cable line."
"Yes sir, you have to use our STB to receive HD channels."
"But I shouldn't have to per the FCC regulations. Are you encrypting these channels before they reach my house?"
"..."
"Hello?"
"Sir, are you having problems with your cable box?"
"Wel....no...."
"Thank you for calling Verizon, have a pleasant day."

Honestly, I just can't see myself getting far with them. My best shot is probably to call and lie to them, saying I was talking to Tier II about it but got cut off, then hope they transfer me there. Tier II is where most of the knowledgable people are.

Heck, in fact, I'll call them later today and record our conversation just for poops & giggles. (They clearly state that they record calls, so I don't see a problem with doing the same. :) )

This is what I was able to pick up via the cable that Verizon FiOS provides from their box in my closet that converts the fiber optic signal into an RF signal that other devices can tune. I used a KWorld PCI 115 QAM tuner card to get the signal into my computer. Sorry if the tabs are off, I pasted from Excel.

It's very weird what they offer via QAM. I can get all the local OTA stations like Fox and CBS, but they are the SD versions, not the HD. There are only THREE FREAKING HD stations on this cable line, none of them national networks. As you can see, they DO let you view more music stations than you can shake a stick at, about 90 or so. They also let you see all the claw-your-eyes-out-boring Local Programming channels. I recorded a few of the network channels on the lower numbers (below 100) and verified that they are not in HD.

SO....if you were planning on getting FiOS for your HD needs, I'd probably recommend against it. I think I have a one year contract with them, so I'm stuck for another 7 months. Bummer. I want to file an FCC complaint but with most of the channels locked, I won't be abe to tell them much. I don't know how complaints work; I guess someone from the FCC will try & verify what I'm saying? Who knows...anyway, hope this info helps someone.

Kworld Channel Station FiOS Channel Status Notes
1 Superstation WGN Unlocked
2 ??? Locked
3 ??? Locked
4 ??? Locked
5 ??? Locked
6 ??? Locked
7 ??? Locked
8 ??? Locked
9 ??? Locked
10 ??? Locked
11 ??? Locked
12 ??? Locked
13 ??? Locked
14 ??? Locked
15 ??? Locked
16 ??? Locked
17 ??? Locked
18 ??? Locked
19 ??? Locked
20 ??? Locked
21 ??? Locked
22 ??? Locked
23 ??? Locked
24 ??? Locked
25 ??? Locked
26 ??? Locked
27 ??? Locked
28 ??? Locked
29 ??? Locked
30 ??? Locked
31 ??? Locked
32 ??? Locked
33 ??? Locked
34 ??? Locked
35 ??? Locked
36 ??? Locked
37 ??? Locked
38 ??? Locked
39 ??? Locked
40 ??? Locked
41 ??? Locked
42 ??? Locked
43 ??? Locked
44 ??? Locked
45 ??? Locked
46 ??? Locked
47 ??? Locked
48 ??? Locked
49 ??? Locked
50 ??? Locked
51 ??? Locked
52 ??? Locked
53 ??? Locked
54 ??? Locked
55 ??? Locked
56 ??? Locked
57 ??? Locked
58 ??? Locked
59 ??? Locked
60 ??? Locked
61 ??? Locked
62 ??? Locked
63 ??? Locked
64 ??? Locked
65 Daystar Unlocked
66 KDFW (Fox) Unlocked Doesn't appear to be in HD.
67 NBC Unlocked
68 KFWD 14 Unlocked
69 WFAA (ABC) 8 Unlocked Doesn't appear to be in HD.
70 KLDT 3 Unlocked
71 KTVT (CBS) 11 Unlocked Doesn't appear to be in HD.
72 KERA (PBS) 10 Unlocked Doesn't appear to be in HD.
73 KXTX 13 Unlocked
74 ??? 16 Unlocked Black screen.
75 KDTX 17 Unlocked
76 KSTR 20 Unlocked
77 KTXA 21 Unlocked
78 KUVN 23 Unlocked
79 ION 26 Unlocked
80 MY KDFI 7 Unlocked
81 KMPX 29 Unlocked
82 CW KDAF 9 Unlocked
83 TVGC 48 Unlocked
84 ??? Locked
85 The Weather Channel
86 Music Choice - Showcase 600
87 Music Choice - Today's Country 601
88 Music Choice - Classic Country 602
89 Music Choice - Bluegrass 603
90 Music Choice - R&B & Hiphop 604
91 Music Choice - Classic R&B 605
92 Music Choice - Smooth R&B 606
93 Music Choice - Rap 607
94 Music Choice - Metal 608
95 Music Choice - Rock 609
96 Music Choice - Arena Rock 610
97 Music Choice - Classic Rock 611
98 Music Choice - Alternative 612
99 Music Choice - Retroactive 613
100 Music Choice - Electronica 614
101 Music Choice - Dance 615
102 Music Choice - Adult Alternative 616
103 Music Choice - Soft Rock 617
104 Music Choice - Hit List 618
105 Music Choice - Party Favorites 619
106 Music Choice - 80s 620
107 Music Choice - 70s 621
108 Music Choice - Solid Gold Oldies 622
109 Music Choice - Singers & Standards 623
110 Music Choice - Big Band & Swing 624
111 Music Choice - Easy Listening 625
112 Music Choice - Smooth Jazz 626
113 Music Choice - Jazz 627
114 Music Choice - Blues 628
115 Music Choice - Reggae 629
116 Music Choice - Soundscapes 630
117 Music Choice - Classical Masterpieces 631
118 Music Choice - Opera 632
119 Music Choice - Light Classical 633
120 Music Choice - Showtunes 634
121 Music Choice - Contemporary Christian 635
122 Music Choice - Gospel 636
123 Music Choice - Radio Disney 637
124 Music Choice - Sounds of the Seasons 638
125 Music Choice - Musica Urbana 639
126 Music Choice - Salsa y Merengue 640
127 Music Choice - Rock en Espanol 641
128 Music Choice - Pop Latino 642
129 Music Choice - Mexicana 643
130 Music Choice - Americana 644
131 Music Choice - R&B Hits 645
132 Music Choice - 90s 646
133 Local Programming
134 Local Programming
135 Local Programming
136 Local Programming
137 Local Programming
138 Local Programming
139 Local Programming
140 Local Programming
141 Local Programming
142 Local Programming
143 Local Programming
144 Local Programming
145 Local Programming
146 Local Programming
147 Local Programming
148 URGE Radio - Crunch
149 URGE Radio - MTV2
150 URGE Radio - Blues Part II
151 URGE Radio - CMT
152 URGE Radio - Diner
153 URGE Radio - Wide Open Country
154 URGE Radio - Voice Box
155 URGE Radio - Vinyl
156 URGE Radio - Dope
157 URGE Radio - Hip-Nod-Ics
158 URGE Radio - Celebration
159 URGE Radio - Unforgettable
160 URGE Radio - Manteca
161 URGE Radio - TRL
162 URGE Radio - Pegao
163 URGE Radio - I Love The 80s
164 URGE Radio - I Love The 90s
165 URGE Radio - Neon
166 URGE Radio - Reunion
167 URGE Radio - Rocks
168 URGE Radio - Axis
169 URGE Radio - Opera Babylon
170 URGE Radio - Crescendo
171 URGE Radio - Bluegrass Radio
172 URGE Radio - Plush
173 URGE Radio - Zen
174 URGE Radio - Discotech
175 URGE Radio - Ultrasound
176 URGE Radio - Praise
177 URGE Radio - Smoke
178 URGE Radio - Oasis
179 URGE Radio - Swing
180 URGE Radio - Radio Alterna
181 URGE Radio - Headbangers Ball
182 URGE Radio - Blast
183 URGE Radio - Gold
184 URGE Radio - NuGroove
185 URGE Radio - Soul City
186 URGE Radio - VH1 Soul
187 URGE Radio - Cinema
188 URGE Radio - Jazzup Broadway
189 URGE Radio - Big World
190 URGE Radio - Ragga
191 URGE Radio - Comedy
192 ??? Locked
193 ??? Locked
194 ??? Locked
195 ??? Locked
196 ??? Locked
197 ??? Locked
198 ??? Locked
199 ??? Locked
200 ??? Locked
201 ??? Locked
202 ??? Locked
203 ??? Locked
204 ??? Locked
205 ??? Locked
206 ??? Locked
211 KTXA-HD Unlocked Same as Channel Kworld 77, but appears to be in HD.
271 KDFI-HD Unlocked Same as Channel Kworld 80, but appears to be in HD.
331 KDAF-HD Unlocked Same as Channel Kworld 82, but appears to be in HD.
332 The Tube Unlocked

I use several speed test engines, but the one I tend to prefer is http://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/ because it gives us the most direct access to the test server from here.


That's a fairly good test site. Here's what I get with FiOS, using the Dallas, TX server on that page. My official speeds are supposed to be 15000 kbps down, 2000 kbps up, and I've done tests before that confirm I get the full speeds, both ways.

Last Result:
Download Speed: 10998 kbps (1374.8 KB/sec transfer rate)
Upload Speed: 1693 kbps (211.6 KB/sec transfer rate)

Link to phone call - http://71.170.164.63:24000/QAM.zip (I could not attach it here because it was over 500K. The call is about 6:45 long, or 2.45MB zip-compressed.)

Well, I called Verizon as suggested, and as I predicted, I got nowhere. The rep didn't seem to have a clue as to what I was talking about. He quickly passed the buck onto my TV manufacturer, saying that it's their problem. I know it's not. I've verified it with two different TV sets. Same exact results. I don't really know how to explain to him how QAM works, and that's not his job to know the inner workings of it and all the FCC laws surrounding it. He basically said what I predicted he'd say: if there's not an STB hooked up to the TV, we can't help you.

Having said that, I can't really blame the poor guy. Having worked phone support for Time Warner cable, I *know* that their primary mission is to get people off the phone, not necessarily help them. Further, they never advertised that I'd be able to hook up their line to a tv tuner and get QAM stuff, so I really can't complain that I'm not getting something I've paid for.

I guess the next stop for me is to file a general FCC complaint and see if that goes anywhere. I'm just curious to see what they have to say about it and whether or not Verizon is considered a cable company in the same way that Cox, Time Warner, Comcast and others are. That would be nice if they were able to do something about it and I got this "problem" fixed for all their DFW area customers.

SO....if you were planning on getting FiOS for your HD needs, I'd probably recommend against it. I think I have a one year contract with them, so I'm stuck for another 7 months. Bummer. I want to file an FCC complaint but with most of the channels locked, I won't be abe to tell them much. I don't know how complaints work; I guess someone from the FCC will try & verify what I'm saying?


I disagree. Fios is the way to go if you want HD. The picture quality is better than either TW or satellite TV. The fact that you're having a problem getting the HD signal without a cable box is not really relevant to most people since most of them will get the box from Verizon.

Oh no, please don't misunderstand me. I agree 100% that the picture quality is superior to anything I've seen from satellite and cable, and yes, the majority of end users aren't trying to do what I'm doing.

My issue is that IF the FCC states that Verizon MUST CARRY local HD stations over their cable system, and they are NOT, then something should be done about it. That is all. It's a pretty simple problem; to me there's no grey area. Either they have to or they don't. If they don't have to, I simply want to know the reason why and I'll move on with my life. I'm in the process of e-mailing the FCC to try and get some answers. And that's all I want, are answers. I'm not out on a witchhunt and I'm not trying to get anyone in trouble. So far nobody has told me otherwise so I'm going on the assumption that they have to carry these stations. The fact that there are three HD stations on the cable line indicate to me that they have chosen which stations to carry. But for all I know, it could be a problem with my cable line. I somehow doubt that though. The STB is able to receive the signal, it would seem that all other outlets could receive that same signal, unless there are problems at the outlet. That is entirely possible. I'll keep this thread updated with what I hear back from the FCC.

Why do I care at all? Because I have a TV with a built-in tuner that can receive QAM signals. If I should be able to receive the HD signals without renting another box, then by all means I want to exercise that option. Another box is about $14 a month; that's $168 a year I could be saving. It's at this point that one can see why Verizon may not want to carry HD stations. But please, don't interpret this as a conspiracy to squeeze more dollars from the consumers. I like to hear all three sides of the story before I pass judgement. Those three are their side, your side, and the truth.

Oh no, please don't misunderstand me. I agree 100% that the picture quality is superior to anything I've seen from satellite and cable, and yes, the majority of end users aren't trying to do what I'm doing.

My issue is that IF the FCC states that Verizon MUST CARRY local HD stations over their cable system, and they are NOT, then something should be done about it. That is all. It's a pretty simple problem; to me there's no grey area. Either they have to or they don't. If they don't have to, I simply want to know the reason why and I'll move on with my life. I'm in the process of e-mailing the FCC to try and get some answers. And that's all I want, are answers. I'm not out on a witchhunt and I'm not trying to get anyone in trouble. So far nobody has told me otherwise so I'm going on the assumption that they have to carry these stations. The fact that there are three HD stations on the cable line indicate to me that they have chosen which stations to carry. But for all I know, it could be a problem with my cable line. I somehow doubt that though. The STB is able to receive the signal, it would seem that all other outlets could receive that same signal, unless there are problems at the outlet. That is entirely possible. I'll keep this thread updated with what I hear back from the FCC.

Why do I care at all? Because I have a TV with a built-in tuner that can receive QAM signals. If I should be able to receive the HD signals without renting another box, then by all means I want to exercise that option. Another box is about $14 a month; that's $168 a year I could be saving. It's at this point that one can see why Verizon may not want to carry HD stations. But please, don't interpret this as a conspiracy to squeeze more dollars from the consumers. I like to hear all three sides of the story before I pass judgement. Those three are their side, your side, and the truth.

It will be interesting to see what response you get from the FCC. This is a gray area, based on what I've read in other forums. Some cable franchises carry both SD and digital and/or HD versions of the OTA stations unencrypted. But some franchises have taken the stance that they only have to offer the SD version unencrypted. Any responses you get from the FCC may shed some light on this.

By the way, when we got our cablecard TV, but before I had the cablecard, I called TWC to ask some question about their modulation and which stations were unencrypted the woman I spoke to knew the answers. I was actually not expvting to get answers so easily. Now I do have a cablecard and a DVR on that TV and can get everything we pay for both ways.

Bernie

That is one thing that occurred ot me too, that they only have to carry the SD version. I am getting that, as you can see from my QAM map I posted.

If it turns out that they don't have to carry the HD signal as well, I'll just get a basic cable line from Time Warner and use that for HD QAM reception. I have a friend in Dallas that I can lug my computer over to in order to see what they offer as far as QAM goes.

Of course, the other solution is to get a really good antenna that will work for me, being on the bottom floor of an apartment. I do have a window that faces out towards a big open section of sky, but it may not be in the direction of towers that I need. If this works though, that would be the best option, because after the initial investment of the antenna, everything else is free. I just really wanted QAM to work because it's much more reliable.

Hey.. thanks for the suggestion. I never thought about trying a scan without any signal. I tried this last night, but still no luck. I also, temporarily lost just 5.1 when I did this. The TV seem to get stuck telling my channel 5.1 was now located on 41.1. I would click ok to close the warning and then the TV would switch to 41.1 and get "NO SIGNAL". Then I would change to some other channel (e.g., 27.1) and then back to 41.1 and it would tell me 41.1 is now located on 5.1. This pretty much repeated three or four times. Then I did a scan using the digital guide scanner, and that seemed to fix it so that 5.1 actually showed up.

Do you know of any differences between the digital channel scan initiated from the regular Menu, and the Digital Guide menu? It definitely seems to behave slightly different when it comes to actually detecting channels.. In either event I still get no 8.1. I'm wondering if my amp is no longer working.

Thanks,
//Robert

I'm having the same issue as well. I'll try to rescan when I get home and post the results.

northernic, good luck w/ filing a complaint w/ the FCC against VZ FiOS if you follow through w/ it. At the least, it'll make you feel better. :) I look forward to the updates.

Just got a HDTV with built in tuner and am reading that ya'll are picking up OTA HD with rabbit ears, etc...i currently have DISH but dont want to upgrade just yet. What is the best port on the back of the TV to hook the rabbits up to? i live in Frisco.

Just got a HDTV with built in tuner and am reading that ya'll are picking up OTA HD with rabbit ears, etc...i currently have DISH but dont want to upgrade just yet. What is the best port on the back of the TV to hook the rabbits up to? i live in Frisco.

The manual that came with your TV is your friend.

You only have one choice (or maybe two) for connecting an antenna. On your TV there should be a connector labeled antenna. Use that one. If your TV has a second connector labeled TV/cable, use the first one for the antenna.

Make friends with your manual.

I'm having the same issue as well. I'll try to rescan when I get home and post the results.

I was able to get WFAA DT channels on 9.1, 9.2, and 9.3.

Like Evil4blue, I'm also using a Channel Master Stealth 3010 antenna now for HD OTA channels, until I get my Verizon situation resolved. I'm not using an amp, and I can't pick up VHF channels, but the UHF ones come in very strong, with zero dropouts or tiling. Before, I was using some piece o' crap antenna from Wal-Mart, AMPLIFIED, that only cost $15 or so. This one was about $50, came with no amp and outperforms the cheaper one by far. It's true that you get what you pay for.

This antenna is quite awesome. I'm not using an amp, haven't tried to point it at anything in particular at all. In fact it's facing a brick wall right now. When I have the time and means I'm going to mount it outside on my patio facing the big open sky and see what I can pick up there.

Bad thing is i only have one DTV/Coax input and my sat runs that way. But i was able to get local NBC and some other whacky ch i never heard of...and about 10 spainish ch. Tried for quite some time but was unable to get local Fox, ABC, and CBS...am using an indoor with rabbit ears and a uhf loop.

Problem is that my tv will not let me input ch unless it has already found them...tried to do all my 8.1, 8.2, etc...and nothing.

Also, can a put an a-b switch on the tv so that i can hook up the sat dish and the antenna to one cable input or would this take away from the signal?

Bad thing is i only have one DTV/Coax input and my sat runs that way. But i was able to get local NBC and some other whacky ch i never heard of...and about 10 spainish ch. Tried for quite some time but was unable to get local Fox, ABC, and CBS...am using an indoor with rabbit ears and a uhf loop.

Problem is that my tv will not let me input ch unless it has already found them...tried to do all my 8.1, 8.2, etc...and nothing.

Also, can a put an a-b switch on the tv so that i can hook up the sat dish and the antenna to one cable input or would this take away from the signal?

Hi Bill,

Is there some reason you aren't running component or HDMI (or DVI?) to your set from the Sat box?

Just curious...

Randy

Two days ago, I went to fcc.gov and saw that I could file a general complaint online. Here's the reply I got back today. Obviously, the next stop will be my nearest post office.

Two days ago, I went to fcc.gov and saw that I could file a general complaint online. Here's the reply I got back today:

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Subject: CIMS00000434187 - FCC Consumer Center response from representative TSR54
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You are receiving this email in response to your inquiry to the FCC.

Dear Mr. Bolgiano,

Complaints alleging violations of technical standards (e.g., exceeding authorized transmitter power, excess deviation from frequency tolerance, spurious transmissions, antenna tower issues, etc.) must be in writing and be mailed to:

Federal Communications Commission
Enforcement Bureau
Spectrum Enforcement Division
445 12th Street, SW
Washington, DC 20554

Fax: (202)-418-2810

Rep Number : TSR54

I am not running HD sat yet...just waiting on my current carrier (dish) to have a good upgrade deal.

The a-b switch works perfect...of course since i am using an old rabbit ear/uhf loop inside i cant pick up everything...but am still working on it...i just wished it would allow me to manually input channels. I did find 25 hd channels last night but was still missing the major 2 (abc and cbs). But oh well...the regular ch still look nice on my new lcd...

I am not running HD sat yet...just waiting on my current carrier (dish) to have a good upgrade deal.

The a-b switch works perfect...of course since i am using an old rabbit ear/uhf loop inside i cant pick up everything...but am still working on it...i just wished it would allow me to manually input channels. I did find 25 hd channels last night but was still missing the major 2 (abc and cbs). But oh well...the regular ch still look nice on my new lcd...
Does your sat box not have composite outputs (the yellow, red and white jacks)?

Gotcha. And yep, running an indoor antenna in Frisco is a bit of a crap shoot. It sounds like you are really doing pretty well for that situation. I don't remember if anyone mentioned this yet, but you can go to www.antennaweb.org and input your info and it will return what it believes you'll need in the way of an antenna to get the area channels, and the direction the antenna farm is from your house. You can post the results here and texasbrit will often be able to give you some feedback on it...just a thought.

Good luck!
Randy

In Frisco with TWC basic and I have a samsung with a clear QAM tuner. I get great OTA HD (ATSC tuner) from 4.1 all the way thru 13.1. when I scan the cable input I get some channels, but I am not really sure which ones I should be getting and which ones are scrambled.

Anyone have a current list of channels one should be recieving via QAM tuner?

TIA

I think it is posted several places in this thread, but it could be a little stale. You never know if TWC is going to move stuff around. I'd repost my list, but I am out of town right now....a quick look back over the last several pages might give you a good starting point, though...

Randy

I live in Carrollton, TX and have an HDTV with Set Top Box for OTA reception with a good antenna in the attic. Within the past 2 weeks FOX Channel 4 has been coming in very pixelated and at times gets NO SIGNAL. Reception on all other channels is perfect. Only Channel 4 gets bad reception. Any ideas if is a problem could be with Channel 4's signal, or with something on my side?

I live in Carrollton, TX and have an HDTV with Set Top Box for OTA reception with a good antenna in the attic. Within the past 2 weeks FOX Channel 4 has been coming in very pixelated and at times gets NO SIGNAL. Reception on all other channels is perfect. Only Channel 4 gets bad reception. Any ideas if is a problem could be with Channel 4's signal, or with something on my side?
I'm in Carrollton also, but I haven't seen any problems with channel 4. I've just got an indoor antenna and everything has been fine with it.

What kind of antenna does everyone suggest? I currently have Directv and the apartment I moved into has some obstruction so I have to use a 3 LNB dish wich causes me to lose my locals. I live up by the Galleria mall. I can put up an outdoor antenna if necessary. Thanks!!

I went to Home Depot today and saw their selection of antennas. They had a traditional-looking roof-mountable antenna antenna with SKU # TV24765 for $35. It claims to have a 35-mi. radius in ideal condition. And the woman working there said the antenna could also be mounted in an attic w/ little effect on radius. The antenna has 25 elements and is 58" in size. Once I get an HDTV, I might get that. The other option is to get the Channel Master CM4228, which I haven't seen in person yet.

I went to Home Depot today and saw their selection of antennas. They had a traditional-looking roof-mountable antenna antenna with SKU # TV24765 for $35. It claims to have a 35-mi. radius in ideal condition. And the woman working there said the antenna could also be mounted in an attic w/ little effect on radius. The antenna has 25 elements and is 58" in size. Once I get an HDTV, I might get that. The other option is to get the Channel Master CM4228, which I haven't seen in person yet.

Your Home Depot salesperson obviously has no idea about antennas. Attic mounting reduces the signal strength by anything up to 60%, and can also create a multipath problem, particularly in Texas where the attic is full of a/c and other equipment, and often has metal foil-backed insulation in the roof.
Also the quoted radius on antenna boxes is meaningless...

DFW is a pretty straightforward location for selecting antennas, because all the main transmitting towers are in the same place, Cedar Hill. All the stations are UHF, with the exception of WFAA which is transmitted on channel 9. They will move back to channel 8 after the analog stations go away in 2009, channel 11 will move back to VHF 11, and channel 52 is moving to channel 9. So you need good UHF reception, and VHF-hi. Most of the combination VHF/UHF antennas you see in the stores today are large because they have to receive VHF-lo for the analog stations (4 and 5) but these will go away in 2009 anyway. And most of them are not very good antennas, there are usually much better choices even in combination VHF/UHF antennas.

You did not post your zip and that can have an impact on antenna recommendations, but the "antenna of choice" for DFW, unless you are a long way from Cedar Hill, is the CM4228, because apart from being one of the best two UHF antennas around (the XG91 is the other one) it also has decent reception on VHF-hi and most people get WFAA OK. I am in Parker, east of Allen, at 40+ miles from Cedar Hill and my CM4228 in the attic receives all the DFW stations OK.
The CM4228 is more susceptible to multipath than some other antennas so you may have to move the antenna around in the attic to eliminate multipath. The XG91 is much better at resisting multipath but does not have as good performance on VHF-hi as the CM4228. Of course mounting the CM4228 outside will get rid of most multipath problems...

Fry's usually stocks the CM4228....

Your Home Depot salesperson obviously has no idea about antennas. Attic mounting reduces the signal strength by anything up to 60%, and can also create a multipath problem, particularly in Texas where the attic is full of a/c and other equipment, and often has metal foil-backed insulation in the roof.
Also the quoted radius on antenna boxes is meaningless...

DFW is a pretty straightforward location for selecting antennas, because all the main transmitting towers are in the same place, Cedar Hill. All the stations are UHF, with the exception of WFAA which is transmitted on channel 9. They will move back to channel 8 after the analog stations go away in 2009, channel 11 will move back to VHF 11, and channel 52 is moving to channel 9. So you need good UHF reception, and VHF-hi. Most of the combination VHF/UHF antennas you see in the stores today are large because they have to receive VHF-lo for the analog stations (4 and 5) but these will go away in 2009 anyway. And most of them are not very good antennas, there are usually much better choices even in combination VHF/UHF antennas.

You did not post your zip and that can have an impact on antenna recommendations, but the "antenna of choice" for DFW, unless you are a long way from Cedar Hill, is the CM4228, because apart from being one of the best two UHF antennas around (the XG91 is the other one) it also has decent reception on VHF-hi and most people get WFAA OK. I am in Parker, east of Allen, at 40+ miles from Cedar Hill and my CM4228 in the attic receives all the DFW stations OK.
The CM4228 is more susceptible to multipath than some other antennas so you may have to move the antenna around in the attic to eliminate multipath. The XG91 is much better at resisting multipath but does not have as good performance on VHF-hi as the CM4228. Of course mounting the CM4228 outside will get rid of most multipath problems...

Fry's usually stocks the CM4228....
I appreciate the info. Yeah, the Home Depot saleswoman glossed over a few things. When I told her that the attic would surely lower signal strength, she countered by saying that since the antenna wouldn't sway in the wind, that would be an added benefit. (Hopefully no one has wind in their attic, LOL.)

I live in northwest FW - Zip code 76179. When I checked AntennaWeb a while ago, it said I was ~35 mi. from the source (on avg.). The closest Fry's to me is in Arlington and the next time I go there, I'll check out the CM4228. I recall you or someone saying the antenna folds in half so that it should fit in most attic entrances. Thanks.