Samsung DTB-H260F ATSC tuner [Text View] - Page 13

toby10

08-13-08, 05:24 PM

my zipcode is 92782... but I was also wondering, does anyone have experience plugging in a cox cable into this box to get the HD local channels? i heard something about clear qam being available.... (does that mean i wouldn't need an antenna?)

i subscribe to cox but not digital cox, only basic cable... but i heard the cable carries local HD in there??

As bcarlson has said: yes. But I'd suggest doing a little reading on just what Clear QAM is and how it works. The cable co's put these few local ch's on obscure ch #'s (like your local ch 5 may be ch 402 on QAM) and are known to move these ch's around from time to time, just to piss off us freeloaders. ;)

If the ch #'s are moved you will probably have to do an entire re-scan of the QAM ch's to get them back (and figure out where they moved them too).

bcarlsen

08-13-08, 08:53 PM

As bcarlson has said: yes. But I'd suggest doing a little reading on just what Clear QAM is and how it works. The cable co's put these few local ch's on obscure ch #'s (like your local ch 5 may be ch 402 on QAM) and are known to move these ch's around from time to time, just to piss off us freeloaders. ;)

If the ch #'s are moved you will probably have to do an entire re-scan of the QAM ch's to get them back (and figure out where they moved them too).

I've been using the DTB-H260F for about 2 years to get the local channels in clear QAM from Comcast cable. The locals all get mapped to "normal" sounding channel numbers (6.1, 8.2, 23.1). Comcast has only remapped the channels once since in the last 2 years. When they did it, I had to rescan, but the channels mapped back to their correct channels again, so I didn't need to figure out where they moved to.

There are tons of channels that do appear on strange channels, like 127.14. For me, those are all music channels and my neighbor's pay per view movies. Not stuff I pay any attention to.

I don't think this is a reason to not go with clear qam. For me it's a great solution. I don't want to pay for additional programming and I don't want to pay a monthly fee for hardware. I just want to see the locals in HD for football and a couple of shows. I also don't know if I agree that people who use clear qam are considered freeloaders. Almost all new TVs come with qam tuners, and I think the majority of the people buying these TVs are not immediately renting a new box from their cable company. Of course the cable companies want you to rely on them for HD content, but I think they are starting to realize the fact that not everyone wants to pay their outrageous fees.

Whidbey

08-13-08, 11:45 PM

I also don't know if I agree that people who use clear qam are considered freeloaders.

Nah, you're just an "early adopter". "speculation" - one day, QAM may be the only choice for cable reception.

toby10

08-14-08, 07:27 AM

I've been using the DTB-H260F for about 2 years to get the local channels in clear QAM from Comcast cable. The locals all get mapped to "normal" sounding channel numbers (6.1, 8.2, 23.1). Comcast has only remapped the channels once since in the last 2 years. When they did it, I had to rescan, but the channels mapped back to their correct channels again, so I didn't need to figure out where they moved to.

There are tons of channels that do appear on strange channels, like 127.14. For me, those are all music channels and my neighbor's pay per view movies. Not stuff I pay any attention to.

I don't think this is a reason to not go with clear qam. For me it's a great solution. I don't want to pay for additional programming and I don't want to pay a monthly fee for hardware. I just want to see the locals in HD for football and a couple of shows. I also don't know if I agree that people who use clear qam are considered freeloaders. Almost all new TVs come with qam tuners, and I think the majority of the people buying these TVs are not immediately renting a new box from their cable company. Of course the cable companies want you to rely on them for HD content, but I think they are starting to realize the fact that not everyone wants to pay their outrageous fees.

Yeah, I hear ya. I don't really use the QAM tuner myself, but I must say that my cable co does keep the ch #'s very consistent, although mine are not mapped to the proper ch #'s that one would expect. I've just heard many stories of QAM ch's getting moved quite often. Also ch's appear then disappear (not the locals). I just wanted to point out to anyone unfamiliar with QAM usage that it can be a bit more involved than just basic cable or a STB.

The freeloader comment was intended to be how the cable co views QAM users, that was not a jab at you or any other free use cable customers. :)

tom_in_atlanta

08-15-08, 02:29 PM

After much fuss and tweeking I replaced my MyHD MDP-130 tuner card with a Samsung DTBH260F terrestrial tuner. The advanced 5th generation chipset made a really big difference.

I had many problems with the MyHD MDP-130. It doesn't handle multipath interference well. I am in an urban location and had trouble with many of the OTA channels.

After trying several different antennas (Antennas Direct DB2, Channel Master 2016) I got a lot of flack from my landlord about the yagi so I replaced it with the Winegard Square Shooter SS-1000.

The Samsung DTBH260F far outperformed the MyHD MDP-130 tuner. Pixelization and software bugs and crashes are a thing of the past. I miss the DVR capability, but the Samsung is a solid piece of hardware. I would highly recommend it.

All my OTA channels come in clear with strong signals and no visable interference. And the Winegard Square Shooter SS-1000 did everything it was supposed to do. It has aan unobtrusive appearance and doesn't attract the ire of your landlord!

gnolivos

08-21-08, 01:22 AM

toby10

08-21-08, 06:49 AM

I just bought the 260, and love it. So much info in this long thread, I am bound to be asking a stupid question!

1) Is it possible to receive via CABLE (QAM unencrypted signal) *and* via Antenna (8VSB) simultaneously? How does one hookup both to the box? Splitter?

2) If I buy an amplified HDTV antenna, will any of this become obsolete after Feb 2009?

Thanks, be kind, new to this.

1) You must use an A/B switch, not a simple splitter.
The lack of separate RF coax inputs for both OTA and QAM is one of the few technical oversights of this tuner.
2) No.

Rammitinski

08-21-08, 01:12 PM

1) You must use an A/B switch, not a simple splitter.Don't you still have to rescan everytime you switch to one or the other - or no?

toby10

08-21-08, 01:54 PM

Don't you still have to rescan everytime you switch to one or the other - or no?

Nope. You just switch over the A/B switch then press the CBL/ANT button on the remote. You won't see any new ch's nor ch's that may have been moved. But it keeps it's memory of ch's for the two input options CBL or ANT.

To find new or moved ch's requires a complete re-scan. ;)

Rammitinski

08-21-08, 04:06 PM

Nope. You just switch over the A/B switch then press the CBL/ANT button on the remote. You won't see any new ch's nor ch's that may have been moved. But it keeps it's memory of ch's for the two input options CBL or ANT.

To find new or moved ch's requires a complete re-scan. ;)Good to know, in case I ever want to use mine that way. Guess that's why that CBL/ANT switch is on the remote - never really looked at it hard and noticed before, because I've always only used it for OTA.

gnolivos

08-21-08, 05:45 PM

So, if I am understanding, the process to CREATE the channel lists on both CABLE and ANTENNA would involve:

Switching to Cable
Scanning Cable only
Switching to Antenna
Scanning Antenna only
then switch back/forth between the 2 CABLE/ANTENNA channel lists ad hoc... (with appropriate A/B switching)

Nope. You just switch over the A/B switch then press the CBL/ANT button on the remote. You won't see any new ch's nor ch's that may have been moved. But it keeps it's memory of ch's for the two input options CBL or ANT.

To find new or moved ch's requires a complete re-scan. ;)

toby10

08-22-08, 05:29 AM

gnolivos

08-22-08, 09:07 AM

Thanks all.. after much deliberation, I have decided to return this unit and get the Epvision 205 instead, due to Analog tuner, and hopefully it will also have a better more forgiving IR receiver!

toby10

08-22-08, 11:28 AM

Thanks all.. after much deliberation, I have decided to return this unit and get the Epvision 205 instead, due to Analog tuner, and hopefully it will also have a better more forgiving IR receiver!

Well......yeah......if you want analog and no HDMI then the H260f would certainly be overkill. ;)

400306

08-25-08, 02:31 AM

I've had the Samsung H260F for a few months and started having a problem the last few weeks with a black rectangle sometimes appearing on the TV screen that blocks most of the display.

The problem appears whether I'm using HDMI or component cables, 720p or 1080i output. The Samsung is connected to a Toshiba LCD TV and only used for digital OTA broadcasts.

The problem happens off and on, such as during the Olympics today and often when watching PBS stations. I can make the rectangle disappear by displaying the program guide or info box. I don't have the problem with any other HD tuners connected to the same TV.

Any ideas what's going on?

wildgoose

08-25-08, 07:25 PM

Whidbey

08-25-08, 08:35 PM

When I press info button while watching TV, I see the channel, title, etc, and description. But the description gets cut off if it is long.

When I press guide (full guide), the description also gets cut off.

When I press guide (mini guide), the description is also cut off.

How do I view the complete description? The Zenith DTT901 is much easier, just press the down arrow key and you'll scroll down the description...

Sometimes, but not always, if you press down after you press info, it will show the entire description. It's an undocumented feature, and it doesn't always work. Also, try pressing info while in the full guide. It opens up a new window which may display more program info.

bernieoc

08-30-08, 11:31 PM

Gone thru most of this thread - I am squicky close to being there on understanding.
But a clarification on one point will help.
With h260f QAM gives me comcast local hd's etc but not basic cable ch 1-99 sd channels
Is that the way it is? it only works on the digital part of cable?
I have a newer tv with built in tuner that accepts 1-99 + the free qams that you do seperate scans for and have separate lists.
Do I have it correct that I can recieve the cable digital (non encript) channels but not the basic 1-99 sd channels that I am paying for?
If so this makes it only a way to get the digital clear qam's.
Have I got it right or what am I missing
Thank you, Bernieoc

Scooper

08-30-08, 11:57 PM

jtbell

08-31-08, 01:20 AM

I have a newer tv with built in tuner that accepts 1-99 + the free qams that you do seperate scans for and have separate lists.
Do I have it correct that I can recieve the cable digital (non encript) channels but not the basic 1-99 sd channels that I am paying for?
If so this makes it only a way to get the digital clear qam's.

Correct. Both your TV's QAM tuner and the H260F's QAM tuner can receive only unencrypted digital channels, which usually means just the local broadcast networks (ABC, CBS, etc.). To get the encrypted channels (ESPN, CNN, Discovery, etc.) you need your cable company's digital box or DVR.

bernieoc

08-31-08, 10:29 AM

To be clear - I do not want encripted channels - just the comcast 1 to 99 analog that all my other tv's pick up. Do I have to split the cable and go directly to the tv for ch 1-99 with one output and the other output into the dtb-h260f for the digital unencripted qam. This would mean switching the TV between inputs. By the way my my unencripted does include ESPN, CNN, discovery, Food and others as well as network hd's. I get these on another TV with internal QAM - but I also get 1-99 thru the same single 'cable in'. I am looking for confirmation that I am not missing something.
Thanks, Bernieoc

Scooper

08-31-08, 11:35 AM

You don't have to "split" the incoming coax - out of the wall, to the Samsung, then the antenna out on the Samsung to your TVs analog tuner. You would have to watch the Samsung on either the HDMI or component video ports on your TV. If you do this, leave the Samsung powered on all the time.

bernieoc

08-31-08, 12:43 PM

Thank you Scooper
The Samsung is the splitter!!!
Another non related comment. I had a Dish Network satalite That I also fed with two over the air antennas (one for uhf - one for vhf) with a 7777 amp combining them. I had to go up on the roof every other month to tweek the direction and still had pixel and drop outs.
Just tried the Samsung with an old radio shack big combo antenna 'in the attic'. I have Perfect reception on all the OTA digital and analog most from 45 miles. This either speaks well for the Samsung or Dish N receiver (811) was pretty bad - or both.
Now I go to the next level. How to use it for both OTA and QAM. I will research the forum - but if someone can help - great.
By the way the quide with OTA is great but I get nothing with the guide fir the QAM stations. Thats just the way it is ?
Thanks, Bernieoc

Scooper

08-31-08, 12:50 PM

On the 811 vs the Samsung - both.:D

Consider an A/B switch. You can't "simply combine" the signals, since there will be overlap in the frequencies.

toby10

09-01-08, 07:07 AM

..........By the way the quide with OTA is great but I get nothing with the guide fir the QAM stations. Thats just the way it is ?
Thanks, Bernieoc

Yup. ;)

scott967

09-01-08, 04:31 PM

Whidbey

09-01-08, 04:41 PM

Has anyone compared the OTA signal reception of the Sammy to the current crop of CECBs? I have Zenith and Insignia branded (understand these are identical) still in the boxes. I guess I will find out some day, but maybe some one has already compared them? Obviously the CECBs only output analog but ISTR that the tuner chips in them are perhaps better.

scott s.
.

I have the Insignia box and have found that there is very little, if any, difference in signal reception. Sometimes, the Insignia will display a frozen picture a bit longer when the signal is bad, but it does not hold a steady picture any better than the Samsung.

Scooper

09-01-08, 04:53 PM

The Samsung is about equal to the CECBs is reception ability. Where it shines over them is the HDTV - the Samsung has both component and HDMI outputs (although only of these at a time), And while the Samsung does have the other video outputs - I would not recommend it over a CECB unless your primary TV has the HD-capable inputs, since all the menus are viewable only on the HD capable outputs.

scott967

09-01-08, 07:53 PM

Thanks I have a Sammy H260 which is my main unit, an old Sammy SIR 351 and now the 2 converter boxes. Eventually I will have to figure out how best to use them (probably next Feb :) )

scott s.
.

jmscott42

09-02-08, 01:50 AM

I've used a 260 and a Channel Master 7000 for recording OTA using my Toshiba DVD recorders. It seems like the Samsung is a bit better tuner overall if you're dealing with weak channels but it's a slight difference. Probably depends on a million factors like so much of OTA receiption. I definitely think the Samsung (and the PHD-205 which uses the same ATI chipset) delivers a superior picture quality for that purpose. The 260 seems to have a lot more definition and produces a "brighter" picture, whereas the CM7000 is a bit on the muddy side.

There's not a huge difference and I am known to be way over-obsessive about stuff like this... but it's a nice tuner to use with a DVD recorder. :)

mlmahon

09-02-08, 10:34 AM

When I press info button while watching TV, I see the channel, title, etc, and description. But the description gets cut off if it is long.

When I press guide (full guide), the description also gets cut off.

When I press guide (mini guide), the description is also cut off.

How do I view the complete description? The Zenith DTT901 is much easier, just press the down arrow key and you'll scroll down the description...
After you press to view the full or mini guide, press the info button once or twice to view the full description. Once again, an undocumented feature, but it does work.:)

Sporker

09-02-08, 11:54 PM

After one year of over the air HD, I'm going to try cable during the upcoming hibernation/college football months. This brings up a jumble of questions that I begin to understand answers to thanks to this forum, but I wanted to get some input. System in question is the Samsung HD H260 tuner connected by HDMI to an onkyo 605, connected by HDMI to a projector and speakers. Works great.

I've signed on to the promotional "digital starter" package with Comcast--about 100 channels of ordinary programming and another 20-30 of digital programming. In a few days the Comcast tech will arrive, and I want to know what he ought to do before he goes to work. Do I have this right?:

First, Comcast will screw their coaxial into my exterior coax mount, replacing the line running from our antenna. My antenna line will just dangle for a few months. (unless I zip a hole in the new wall for a second coax cable I should have included in the first place.)
Second, inside, they'll hook their comcast box directly into the coax where it comes into the TV room.
Third, they'll run a small coax line out from their box into the Samsung H260.
Fourth, I'll have already run a new coax line from the Samsung coax-out to the receiver's coax-in.

Do those steps achieve my objectives?:
1/I get Comcast's HD channels in HD, thanks to the Samsung (all the local HD channels they offer plus their ESPN/FSN/History/Discover/SciFi HD stuff?), without renting their HD box?
2. I get the basic cable programming--Comedy Central, Cartoon Network, stuff like that?

Thanks for any help you can offer--just trying to get my mind right.

jtbell

09-03-08, 01:05 AM

1/I get Comcast's HD channels in HD, thanks to the Samsung (all the local HD channels they offer plus their ESPN/FSN/History/Discover/SciFi HD stuff?), without renting their HD box?

The Samsung will give you only unencrypted digital channels. On most cable systems, this means the HD local channels plus maybe some SD local subchannels (e.g. NBC Weather Plus) and some shopping channels or other trivia. That's it. For CNN/ESPN/FSN/etc. you almost certainly need to rent their box. This goes for SD digital as well as HD digital.

toby10

09-03-08, 06:39 AM

...........
1/I get Comcast's HD channels in HD, thanks to the Samsung (all the local HD channels they offer plus their ESPN/FSN/History/Discover/SciFi HD stuff?), without renting their HD box?
2. I get the basic cable programming--Comedy Central, Cartoon Network, stuff like that?..........

If only it were that easy! ;)

Sporker

09-03-08, 08:39 PM

Okay, help me understand a bit better.

If I were to cut the H260F out altogether, and just use the Comcast box, what will I get? This would be coax in-->Comcast box-->Onkyo 605 receiver-->projector & speakers. I'd expect that in this case I would get all the basic cable channels, but nothing in HD (or do I get nothing at all, since comcast's box isn't a tuner?).

If I insert the Samsung between the Comcast box and the Onkyo, what will I get? (Again, I'd have HDMI and coax out to the receiver) Do I get all "basic cable," but none of Comcast's "Digital Starter" offerings (ESPNHD, UniversalHD, MHD, and so on?) because they're all encrypted? But shouldn't Comcast's box be decrypting all of these, since I'm paying for them all, before they reach my H260F?

I realize I'm really not getting it, yet. Trying, though.

Scooper

09-03-08, 08:45 PM

If you have the Comcast HD Cable box - you have no need of the Samsung.
Maybe if you are going to hook the Samsung to a TV that doesn't have a cable box so you can receive the unencrypted HD channels, or maybe to an antenna as a backup to cable.

Sporker

09-03-08, 11:27 PM

toby10

09-04-08, 07:18 AM

Understood that with the Comcast HD box, I would just set aside the Samsung. What I'm not getting is how this system will work *without* the HD box, just using the standard comcast box, and how/why the Samsung can't be used to display channels I'd be getting in HD.

Standard Comcast converter box = all of the SD and digital cable (non-HD) ch's you are paying for

H260f = local digital HD ch's from OTA and/or QAM

The H260f is not a cable converter box, it is solely a digital only tuner to view unencrypted digital ch's. Most cable ch's beyond basic cable are encrypted (scrambled) and require a cable converter box to un-encrypt the encrypted ch's.

You get what you pay for. ;) If you want to get encrypted digital and HD ch's you must pay for (subscribe to) the ch's as well as the converter box.

suki84

09-05-08, 01:16 AM

Sporker, with Comcast and the H260F, I get ESPN Gameplan/Full Court and other peoples InDemand programs. Until last December I used to get ESPNHD/2HD, MOJOHD, TNTHD, etc., but that varies with where you live, I'm in Savannah, Ga. If you want to see what QAM channels you get, go to SiliconDust.com, then to resources/channels type in your zip and there they are.

ccaihc

09-05-08, 11:42 AM

toby10

09-05-08, 12:20 PM

Hey guys. I bought this reciever a long time ago but never got around to using it. I'm trying to get basic cable for my tv. I can get the antenna HD channels, however when I plug my cable in(basic cable from the wall, I live in a fraternity house) and then search for channels it gives me scrambled or weak signal on every channel. Can someone explain to me why my tuner isn't picking up any channels? Thanks.

- Make sure your antenna and cable tv feeds are plugged in seperately (cannot use a splitter)
- Make sure you switch to CABLE option and do a full ch. scan
- This is a digital only tuner, any analog ch's will not show up
- You will only get QAM ch's (ch's that are free). By law the cable co MUST provide all local ch's for free, but there is no requirement to provide these locals in digital or HD (but most cable co's do). Again, if provided free local ch's are only available in analog, you won't see them.

Usually with QAM ch's, you will also get digital music ch's, shopping ch's, weather ch's. Anything else beyond your locals is a "gift" from your cable co and quite rare.

ccaihc

09-05-08, 01:08 PM

This is basic cable so is it it analog I guess?

toby10

09-05-08, 01:24 PM

This is basic cable so is it it analog I guess?

Hard to say, but quite likely. I presume you do not require a cable box to get these ch's? If you plug the cable co's coax cable into a "cable ready" tv what ch's do you get?

QAM ch's are often not mapped properly and usually do not have any program data. Again, switch your H260f to CABLE (via remote CBL), insure only the cable co's coax is plugged in, do a full ch scan. Then page through the results. You might see a block of ch's in the 200's or 300's or beyond. This is the typical "range" of ch's where cable co's will put local HD feeds if at all.

It is sounding like your best bet is to simply run the cable co's coax direct to your tv for basic cable then use a different input (HDMI or component) on the tv for your local OTA ch's in HD using the H260f.

ccaihc

09-05-08, 01:28 PM

toby10

09-05-08, 01:40 PM

Unfortunately my tv doesn't have a tuner in it, so I'd have to find a vhs player somewhere. Sigh. I really had planned on just having this thing do both the local hd and the basic cable.

It seems to be finding channels, they're all labeled 69-then another number. I can flip through them but I get weak signal on all of them.

Typically ch's 1 thru 69 are analog. After it completes it's scan you can scroll by an entire page of ch's. Eventually you will see call letters like KABC or WXYZ if your cable provider provides digital HD ch's via QAM. Could be anywhere from the 200's thru the 900's.

But, again, if you want basic cable (not limited to QAM) then the H260f is not going to be able to tune those in for you. :(

There are other H260f like tuners out there that do have analog tuners in them but these analog tuners may only be for OTA analog, I dunno.
H260f is a digital only tuner. You may have to rent a cable co STB or get a "cable ready" tv to accomplish what you want.

bernieoc

09-06-08, 12:01 PM

Sporker,
Just looking at your questions a page back I want to comment that 'just getting unscrambled QAM' is not so bad.
I hope Comcast does not read this - I get with the Samsung 35 channels (not counting 50 music channels)these include CNNHD, A&EHD, HGTVHD,GOLF, USA, SCIFI, HISTORY, HD THEATRE, DISCOVERY, ESPN HD plus local HD's. Going for the QAM's with my Comcast was very worthwhile. There is no guide and sometimes the channels move, so it takes a bit of work to know where you are. The question is will it last?
Bernieoc

Roger_M

09-11-08, 06:26 PM

mlmahon

09-12-08, 07:10 PM

I just bought a Samsung stb DTB-260F off of Ebay but it came with no remote. Thought my old SIR-T351 remote would work but no go. Is there another way to access the 260 with the universal ONE-FOR-ALL remote?
I've been able to use my samsung tv remote. I know some others have used universal remotes with some success. But the best solution is just to buy one.

The remote is available from partstore.com for $17.82 plus shipping.

lionelbob

09-12-08, 11:43 PM

I've had my sammy for six months, and two or three times, box appears to go to sleep. Symptoms - after a long idle period, won't tune any OTA channels, as if the antenna was unplugged. Simply bouncing the power on the box brings everything back to normal.

Anybody else have similar issues?

I know that today, we were out for 9 hours, and box sat idle.

I can't locate my manual at this time, and the Samsung download site is busted, (could be firewall issue)

timinky

09-14-08, 10:22 AM

toby10

09-14-08, 10:35 AM

Scanned through this thread and hope I didn't overlook the answer to this question. I have a Samsung LNS4041D HDTV that only has NTSC/ATSC built in tuners. Subscribe to basic/classic cable through Insight Communications. Bought 260F to add QAM tuner to pull in local HD channels via cable pipe coming into house. I have no digital STB from cable co. Hooked up 260F, scanned for channels, found channels, output from 260F via HDMI to TV. Found
all channels I suppose that Insight lets pass through clearly. However many additional channels were added to 260F channel lineup that I can't view. I have the 260F switched to the 1081i output position. However I've noticed that
some of the HD programming is full HD 16:9 (i.e. ABC network feed of football game) and others channels even though noted are - 1080i 16:9 - or
720p 16:9 - still show up in a 4:3 aspect ratio. Is this because the local originating stations are still only send out a 4:3 signal despite the programming originating there noted other wise on the 260F? Or have I missed something in the setup of the 260F in order not to receive each HD (1080i or 720p) program in full 16:9? Small side note, I did split the incoming cable signal to both NTSC tuner at TV to get all sd channels and other side directly to 260F. Sorry to ramble. Thanks in advance for answers, input.

timinky

- Generally not a good idea to use a splitter for OTA and cable. Best to get a coax A/B switch
- Addl. ch's showing on guide but not viewable may be scrambled/encrypted ch's
- 4:3 may be SD content upscaled to HD resolution. Try your H260f's Aspect Ratio button as well as Aspect Ratio options on your TV. Some TV's limit Aspect Ratio options (some don't function at all) with a RG6/RG59 coax feed. i.e, if using a RG6/RG59 coax feed your TV may only display what it gets, 4:3 or 16:9, no user changing aspect options. Usually any other video input (Composite or Component or HDMI) allow full aspect control by user.

xrabbi

09-15-08, 02:57 PM

bcarlsen

09-15-08, 03:53 PM

The channels you mentioned are analog channels and cannot be viewed using the H260F. The H260F can get digital channels over the air (using its ATSC tuner) or unencrypted digital channels from cable (using its QAM tuner).

toby10

09-15-08, 03:55 PM

I have been using my Samsung H260F for over a year now with the Basic Cable service from Comcast. When plugging in the single white cable coming in the house to the receiver, I get all the local networks (PBS, ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX) in both HD and STD and any other OTA stations available. I do not get standard cable channels such as CNN, ESPN, DIS, etc. I upgraded my cable subscription to Comcast's Standard Cable package, which includes all these channels -- but I still do not receive them over the H260F (while I do on regular TV elsewhere in the house). There is literally no change on the H260F resulting from the fact that the filter/trap was removed from the cable line by Comcast. A technician came out and verified that the lines were open and working etc. He said that the HDTV receiver was scanning for channel by frequency rather than by channel number and that this was incompatible with the way Comcast broadcast. He suggested there might be a setting to change this on the H260F but I have not found.

Does anybody know/have any ideas?? (You know, it's football season and ESPN is very important . . . )

I can only suggest that you verify that all of the missing channels are indeed DIGITAL and not analog. Also, keep in mind, QAM is not the same as Basic Cable. Unless the cable company specifically places those channels onto the QAM lineup/frequencies then you will not get those channels.

ex: My QAM via H260f gives me 7 of my 8 locals in Digital HD, 50 music ch's, 3 shopping ch's. That's it! Nothing more! Yet there are numerous other Digital ch's on our system that show up fine via a cable ready tv. The difference is that those additional digital ch's are not broadcast via QAM. ;)

allabouttl

09-15-08, 04:48 PM

This thread needs a sticky really badly!!! Moderator please help. All must read the specs of this device before posting................

I can only suggest that you verify that all of the missing channels are indeed DIGITAL and not analog. Also, keep in mind, QAM is not the same as Basic Cable. Unless the cable company specifically places those channels onto the QAM lineup/frequencies then you will not get those channels.

ex: My QAM via H260f gives me 7 of my 8 locals in Digital HD, 50 music ch's, 3 shopping ch's. That's it! Nothing more! Yet there are numerous other Digital ch's on our system that show up fine via a cable ready tv. The difference is that those additional digital ch's are not broadcast via QAM. ;)

toby10

09-15-08, 05:20 PM

This thread needs a sticky really badly!!! Moderator please help. All must read the specs of this device before posting................

And it will only get worse as we get closer to Feb. 19, 2009. :)

I can see where people just assume it's a cable converter box. But they will be SORELY disappointed when they learn just what Digital Only QAM really means. ;)

DTV converter vs H260f
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13377427&postcount=2656

QAM TV Explained (be sure to read the posted replies to gain some knowledge of QAM limitations and issues from people using QAM tuners):
http://blog.washingtonpost.com/fasterforward/2008/03/revisiting_digital_tv_a_qam_qu.html

QAM explanation II (article geared towards HTPC/PC HDTV QAM tuner card, but the same QAM limitations apply to the H260f or any QAM tuner):
http://www.hdtvtunerinfo.com/hdtvpctunerqam.html

Help in finding what free clear QAM ch’s might be available in your area:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=45

Rammitinski

09-16-08, 02:24 AM

I have been using my Samsung H260F for over a year now with the Basic Cable service from Comcast. When plugging in the single white cable coming in the house to the receiver, I get all the local networks (PBS, ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX) in both HD and STD and any other OTA stations available. I do not get standard cable channels such as CNN, ESPN, DIS, etc. I upgraded my cable subscription to Comcast's Standard Cable package, which includes all these channels -- but I still do not receive them over the H260F (while I do on regular TV elsewhere in the house). There is literally no change on the H260F resulting from the fact that the filter/trap was removed from the cable line by Comcast. A technician came out and verified that the lines were open and working etc. He said that the HDTV receiver was scanning for channel by frequency rather than by channel number and that this was incompatible with the way Comcast broadcast. He suggested there might be a setting to change this on the H260F but I have not found.

Does anybody know/have any ideas?? (You know, it's football season and ESPN is very important . . . )You need to use the RF pass-through feature on the tuner, so that you can tune in those extended basic analog channels on your TV's NTSC tuner.

timinky

09-16-08, 05:31 PM

- Generally not a good idea to use a splitter for OTA and cable. Best to get a coax A/B switch
- Addl. ch's showing on guide but not viewable may be scrambled/encrypted ch's
- 4:3 may be SD content upscaled to HD resolution. Try your H260f's Aspect Ratio button as well as Aspect Ratio options on your TV. Some TV's limit Aspect Ratio options (some don't function at all) with a RG6/RG59 coax feed. i.e, if using a RG6/RG59 coax feed your TV may only display what it gets, 4:3 or 16:9, no user changing aspect options. Usually any other video input (Composite or Component or HDMI) allow full aspect control by user.
why not split signal? What advantage to having an A/B switch? Local HD looks
pretty good through 260F via HDMI....

toby10

09-16-08, 07:24 PM

why not split signal? What advantage to having an A/B switch? Local HD looks
pretty good through 260F via HDMI....

The two signals (OTA and QAM) can interfere with each other causing video issues. I'm talking about taking the cable feed and your antenna feed, using a splitter to "combine" the two into one cable, then input these two signals into the single RF input on the back of the H260f. Not a good idea.

This is the biggest design flaw of the H260f, having a single RF input for both OTA and QAM. These should have been separate, unique inputs.

If you mean splitting BEFORE the H260f to feed another input or another TV that's a different story. ;)

Scooper

09-16-08, 07:58 PM

Seconded - if you want to get both OTA ATSC and cable QAM - you need an A/B switch, not a combiner.

Fortunately for you, the 260F CAN do both, just select the ANT button on the remote.

toby10

09-17-08, 06:02 AM

why not split signal? What advantage to having an A/B switch? Local HD looks
pretty good through 260F via HDMI....

Reading your post again I realize now you were simply splitting the cable feed to your TV and to your H260f. My bad, you are fine.

Many try to combine (using a splitter in reverse) the OTA and QAM feeds into the single RF input on the H260f and this will not work properly.

Sorry for the confusion. :)

Whidbey

09-17-08, 02:18 PM

On page 23 of the manual, under Notes, it says:

"If you have changed the connected antenna, use the ANTENNA button on your remote control to change the selected antenna after scanning completes."

Can anyone explain that statement? I'm trying to understand what the point of the antenna button on the remote is.

I'm thinking of adding a bunch of notes to the manual and posting it here (with permission from a mod), possibly as a sticky if the mod will allow it.

timinky

09-18-08, 01:23 AM

Reading your post again I realize now you were simply splitting the cable feed to your TV and to your H260f. My bad, you are fine.

Many try to combine (using a splitter in reverse) the OTA and QAM feeds into the single RF input on the H260f and this will not work properly.

Sorry for the confusion. :)
thanks for the replies.....that's correct I just simply split the incoming cable feed...one side of splitter to 260F QAM tuner the other to NTSC SD tuner at TV. Seems to be working fine. Getting Local HD feeds fine...sure is hard to switch over to the SD side after watching awhile....

toby10

09-18-08, 08:28 AM

thanks for the replies.....that's correct I just simply split the incoming cable feed...one side of splitter to 260F QAM tuner the other to NTSC SD tuner at TV. Seems to be working fine. Getting Local HD feeds fine...sure is hard to switch over to the SD side after watching awhile....

Yup, you're fine. I'd bet most users don't use QAM exclusively. Mine is very similar, split Cable IN to H260f and cable box. Then ANT IN to H260f for local OTA. This is where the A/B switch comes in combining the two RF feeds (OTA and QAM) into the sole RF input on the H260f.

paris_tn

09-19-08, 01:50 AM

Rammitinski

09-19-08, 02:01 AM

I have a Pioneer FHD1 plasma and it has no tuner at all. I do have cable and use the cables tuner and all is well with cable. I have decided to go up with a uhf antenna to pick up some ota digital stations. Hopefully some i do not receive on cable.

Is the Samsung DTB-260f one of the better digital tuners going now? I know it won't pick up analog and i know this and do not desire analog.

If i buy one, get my uhf antenna up, do i scan right off to see what it will pick up with my antenna? I am going to use hdmi cables. This is not an omni directional antenna and i am going to use a rotor to try to tune in different stations in different towns. I guess i am puzzled on knowing how this tuner will lock in things and remember them, with me knowing i will have to turn the rotor and antennadiffer directions to specific places.You just scan for channels in each direction, and it will program them all in. Whenever you turn the antenna and are tuned to those stations on the box, they will come in. Simple as that. The box will "remember" the channels - you just have to point the antenna at them.

You can turn on or off any of the channels or subchannels you want through the menu. The ones you leave in will be accessible when surfing with the remote, or by entering in the channel number on the remote and going directly to it.

The DTB-H260F definitely is the best standalone ATSC HD tuner out there right now, and that and a rotor should work perfectly for your situation.

paris_tn

09-19-08, 02:05 AM

Thanks Ramm and simple enough. I think i'll get one soon when i get my antenna started and put up.

toby10

09-19-08, 07:13 AM

Whidbey

09-19-08, 09:40 AM

I know in my area the locals are on both UHF and VHF. You may want to check your area as well.

You also may want to check if some locals are changing from UHF to VHF come February and plan your antenna requirement accordingly.

ccaihc

09-19-08, 11:30 AM

Big Lag

09-19-08, 02:16 PM

Well, here's a new one.

First, a little background. I recently returned to the audio and video world of entertainment after a 20 year hiatus. I had high hopes, abeit, tempered with my experiences (which were uniformly good). I bought a SHARP 52" LCD (it's great). I bought a SONY DA-5300ES AVR (it sucks). I use a PS3 as my Bluray player (it's great). I use an ORB 7.1 system (it's great). I bought a SAMSUNG DTB tuner (it sucks).

I was changing between channels and the tuner just froze up. I couldn't change channels, access the menu, nada, zero, zilch. I had to get up, go find the remote and power cycle the unit to get it to respond.

This comes on the heels of numerous events where the unit spuriously adds TV channels I'd previously deleted and it continues to have handshake problems with the AVR.

I find the state of affairs in this industry to be pretty sad. I hope you guys are able to improve things in the years to come. In the mean time, I'll probably keep my money in my pocket.

toby10

09-19-08, 02:28 PM

So I was just thinking about what toby10 told me about a month ago, and realized I should still be recieving local channels in HD over my tuner. But I'm not. I'm done a channel scan or whatever over STD and the other two who's names I don't remember and I'm not getting anything.

OTA or QAM?

If OTA then you are getting the Digital HD ch's.

If QAM there are several possibilities:
- ch #'s are different than what you are used to (ex. local ch 5 might be on QAM ch 344)
- your cable co does not provide HD ch's on QAM (rare, but possible)
- cable signal issues

In either case make sure you are selecting the proper input (ANT or CBL) via your remote.

ccaihc

09-19-08, 02:29 PM

OTA or QAM?

If OTA then you are getting the Digital HD ch's.

If QAM there are several possibilities:
- ch #'s are different than what you are used to (ex. local ch 5 might be on QAM ch 344)
- your cable co does not provide HD ch's on QAM (rare, but possible)
- cable signal issues

In either case make sure you are selecting the proper input (ANT or CBL) via your remote.

Is there a way to check what my cable company provides?

toby10

09-19-08, 02:39 PM

.......This comes on the heels of numerous events where the unit spuriously adds TV channels I'd previously deleted and it continues to have handshake problems with the AVR.

I find the state of affairs in this industry to be pretty sad. I hope you guys are able to improve things in the years to come. In the mean time, I'll probably keep my money in my pocket.

Others in here may have some ideas on the lock-up issues. I'm guessing your handshake issues are HDMI related? This is, unfortunately, far too common in todays CE devices. HDMI is incredible when it works, but it is an industry wide nightmare when it doesn't.

I know from experience the H260f has serious HDMI issues. I was running a 50' HDMI cable from the H260f direct to my TV with regular audio & video drops. Changing this to a 3' HDMI cable into my AVR, then using the same 50' HDMI from AVR to TV solved the issue. Seems the H260f's HDMI output is lacking some *umph*. :confused:

I've also had the handshake issues running the short 3' HDMI cable, but these are infrequent.

If possible run Component & optical (or coax digital or L-R RCA) from your H260f to your TV. Audio & video will be the same.

toby10

09-19-08, 02:43 PM

Is there a way to check what my cable company provides?

Yeah, there is a posted link in this thread, though I've found the info quite confusing myself. Or, try a google search or even a forum search for QAM in your area and cable provider.

You could even call your cable co and ask. But the CSR's rarely know this info, or are trained to play dumb so you rent a cable box. :)

egnlsn

09-19-08, 02:46 PM

Is there a way to check what my cable company provides?
QAM is the modulation scheme that cable TV uses. ATSC is the modulation scheme that OTA uses.

gnolivos

09-20-08, 07:57 PM

I am having a problem with my Sammy tuner, and wonder if you guys have seen this happen:

I first scan all terrestrial channels, then I start switching channels... at some point, it gets to channel 64-1 and begins to jump back and forth between 64-1 and 13-2, without tuning into anything... just switching back and forth. The only way out is to try to switch further into 65, 66, etc... It also seems to happen further up into the 70's channels.

The strange thing is that it did NOT happen with my first unit, which I returned (long story). The unit I have now is from eBay, and it behaves oddly as described. Could this be an older buggy firmware? :( Known issue?

armand1

09-25-08, 04:02 PM

gnolivos,
I haven't been keeping up with this thread recently, but my tuner does the same thing on a new channel that started a couple of weeks ago. I bought my tuner in Feb 07, one of the first batch. I'm not sure if it is the older firmware or just the channel. Since it only does it on the new channel I suspect it is the broadcast station, trying to work out some bugs.
I did notice the tuner seems to lock up more now.
Does anyone know if something is changing with the broadcast stations or is my tuner getting older? Seems like a lock-up as if the tuner runs out of RAM.

Edit: after reading some of the posts above my lock-up problem is not HDMI related since I do not use HDMI.

gnolivos

09-25-08, 07:25 PM

Thanks for your response on this... FYI, I too am using Component, and not HDMi ...

gnolivos,
I haven't been keeping up with this thread recently, but my tuner does the same thing on a new channel that started a couple of weeks ago. I bought my tuner in Feb 07, one of the first batch. I'm not sure if it is the older firmware or just the channel. Since it only does it on the new channel I suspect it is the broadcast station, trying to work out some bugs.
I did notice the tuner seems to lock up more now.
Does anyone know if something is changing with the broadcast stations or is my tuner getting older? Seems like a lock-up as if the tuner runs out of RAM.

Edit: after reading some of the posts above my lock-up problem is not HDMI related since I do not use HDMI.

Dmon4u

10-03-08, 12:46 PM

Perhaps an un-necessary warning about Insignia NS-26LCD-09 televisions.

On a lark I tried both of my DTB-H260F's on this highly rated TV from BestBuy and they did not work with HDMI connections.

On a better note, my new TiVo HD XL worked perfectly.

So, it appears that this TV set is one of those picky HDCP ones.....
But, I wonder if this bodes ill for the DTB-H260F on some newer TV Sets ?

Whidbey

10-06-08, 11:51 AM

This may or may not have already been covered in this thread...

I was trying to simplify my cable run to lessen signal loss in attempt to get a better signal on my weakest station. Originally I had a cable come into the house, then split to feed the 260 and a CECB. I had always assumed I could not rely on the 260's pass through to feed the CECB since the signal would be too weak with the box off. I based this assumption on results run on analog signals - When I passed analog signals through the 260 to the TV, they were only watchable with the 260 on. Turn it off and the picture turned to snow.
Last night, as an experiment, I hooked up a CECB box to the coax out of the 260. With the 260 on, I turned on the CECB and was able to tune all of my stations, with no drops in signal strength. Next, I turned the 260 off. I was fully expecting to see a big drop in signal strength or no picture, but to my surprise there was no change. Signals were as strong as they were with the 260 on!

Question for the experts - Why didn't I my signal weaken in digital with the 260 off as it did for analog? Is the 260 designed to mainly pass digital signals?

Scooper

10-06-08, 12:20 PM

Most of the "signal" meters that are implemeted int eh TASC tuners are not "strength meters, but rather - "signal quality" meters. If you have enough signal strength with the 260 off, then you have pretty good signal strength.

armand1

10-07-08, 05:47 AM

MrBostn

10-11-08, 07:27 PM

try a Best Buy. Every CC I've been in is a ghost town. I don't know how they hang on. Oh and if you see an open box one, make sure it has the remote. The unit is basically useless without one.

I've coded in my samsung remote into my palm pilot to use as a backup in case something happens to the orig. remote.

ronniejay78

10-11-08, 08:43 PM

Does anyone know what the availability status of the Samsung DTB-H260F tuner is? Will it be discontinued?

I noticed some stores are not carrying it anymore (maybe slow sales) and Circuit City has it listed as an "OUTLET" item.

I just bought one at Circuit City for $169. I had seen it online the week before at $149, but waited too long. I got it with free CC gift cards I had won. I replaced my Voom unit I had been using, which was rebooting everytime I went to CBS 11-1, here in Houston. Sammy has worked fine for me on my Toshiba 52 in HD rear proj. monitor.

Dmon4u

10-12-08, 10:04 AM

Trying to be prepared for the long run:

Since it's so hard to get a Universal Remote to work everything properly (Volume goes Up or Down one notch per click for me), I went looking for a replacement one and found it through Amazon using the model # MF59-00291B

I used a Coupon from Amazon but the Remote actually came from Partstore.com

@ $ 17.82

paris_tn

10-16-08, 05:41 PM

Over at Crutchfield the dtb-h260f is discontinued. Have they quit making this one for another updated Samsung tuner? Has anyone heard?

jjeff

10-16-08, 05:48 PM

Last week I checked Samsung.com when someone else asked and clicked on the 260 link. I was told this page was not available at this time:eek:
I tried it a few hours later and it came up, no problem:confused:
I think somethings in the air but I don't know what. Hopefully a upgraded model?

paris_tn

10-16-08, 06:14 PM

That is what i am thinking jjeff. I am in the process of hooking up some ota antennas and need a tuner with them. My plasma has no tuner and i use the cable box with it. This was the tuner i was leaning towards and reading thru whatever short commings or improvements some have wished for, who knows, it could be comming ture with an updated version.

I wish i knew or how long i will have to wait to get a newer version, if one is comming. I just don't see how one of the best tuners made now and seems very popular, how many places are showing discontinued. Somethings up and is Samsung is the best or one of the best, you know they would just get out and not repalce it. I feel something new is comming.

b1gmoose

10-17-08, 02:07 PM

So I had grand plans for christmas this year and a nice new HDTV, but since the economy is slow & I want to keep on top of the bills, I've decided not to go with an HDTV. I'm the only one disappointed. My 5 year old doesn't care and my wife doesn't care either. They just want some TV and to keep ontop of bills and stuff.

I have canceled cable TV and put up an antenna (dual 91XG's, YA1713, CM7777, rotator, at 33' with 90' of 5/8 hard line to the house). I live in the fringe and this was needed to get reliable OTA tv.

I applied for and got my coupons and bought 2x Zenith DTT901's. I'm quite happy with the setup, but I would like the best possible PQ to get me through until I get an HDTV.

I have a 4 year old Sharp 27F630 CRT tv with component inputs. When hooked to my DVD player, there is a big difference between s-video and component. So I started some research and I've almost settled on the samsung DTB-H260F.

I have a couple of questions. From what I've gathered, it has a 5th gen tuner and is fairly sensitive. Haven't been able to get a confirmed report if it is just as sensitive as the zenith CECB's or CM CECB or not. Anybody know? Living in the fringe poses some problems with signals for me. I've attached my TVFool.com report. Right now I get ABC, CBS, PBS (not ch18, it was overloading my pre-amp & I got a TinLee notch filter for just ch 18), NBC, Fox, and Canadian channels.

Also, I've searched the forum, and came across it briefly, but can this box tune to the true RF channel and display the signal strength?

It's hard reading this entire thread. But are there any odd issues with this unit? Should I open it up and install additional heat sinks & a fan for thermal problems or anything like that?

Thanks!,

~ryan

Rammitinski

10-17-08, 02:39 PM

I've had the Zenith, CM and the Samsung (DTVPal, too), and the Samsung is the least sensitive of the bunch.

In order of sensitivity:

Channel Master CM-7000
DTVPal/TR-40
Zenith DTT-901
Samsung DTB-H260F

If your TV's are 4:3, the Samsung might not be the best choice, because unless your TV's have a zoom mode, all 4:3 material on HD channels can only be kept in the correct proportional aspect by leaving them letterboxed. Also, it sounds like you already know this, but unless it's connected through component, you won't get any of the menu's, guide or text (not even the channel numbers and banners). You won't have that problem on the Sharp now, but what about if it ends up on an old TV other than the Sharp after you get an HD one?

You can enter in the real channel number on the Samsung, and it will stay programmed in - but to display the signal strength, you have to make a bunch of button pushes to get to the meter. It's a real pain. You don't have to do that on any of the CECB's mentioned here.

The CM-7000 will give you the best sensitivity and PQ of the CECB's, as long as the sets have s-video in. If not, the composite PQ is about equal to the Zenith's. The Samsung, of course, will give you the best PQ of all on a 27" TV through component. But I have to say, the CM's is not really that far behind. It'd be in between the Zenith and the Samsung's. There is good reason why Consumer Reports picked the CM as having the best PQ for a CECB.

The Samsung does have a nice guide, but the DTVPal/TR-40's is even better, because you can eliminate channels and subchannels from it, where you can't with the Samsung. If you eliminate one main or sub with the Sammy, you have to take out all the others with it. The new DTVPal "Plus" is supposed to have an even more sensitive tuner. The only problem is, if you're after the best PQ, the DTVPal won't give you anything near that. If you're really discriminating about PQ, you probably won't be too thrilled with it - it's pretty soft.

The Channel Master's guide is pretty good, though. The one, biggest advantage to the Zenith over the CM is that on the Zenith you can set and keep separate aspect ratios for each channel. But if you just want to watch everything in a screen-filling, 4:3 mode on the other two CECB's, you just set it once and it's fine. If you want to change the aspect ratio on a channel occasionally, there's a button right on the remotes.

Also, you have to do an "add-in" re-scan with the CM to program in new channels. But it does hold onto the old ones when you do it - you won't lose them (and the scan is reasonably fast). With the Zenith and DTVPal, you can add them in individually, but you have to go into the menu to do it on the Pal.

Then there is the price difference to consider. Maybe you'd like to save some money on the tuner now, so that you'll have the money to buy that HD display sooner. Maybe you won't have much use for the tuner after you do get an HD display, so why spend more on it? If it'll end up on an extra, old CRT anyway, do you really need the expensive one?

No real consistent issues to speak of with the Samsung, as far as heat or bugs. Personally, at this point, I wouldn't even pay the money just to use the Samsung temporarily on a 4:3 set. It's not really the best choice anymore. It's best kept for 16:9 TV's without a tuner IMO. You may hear varying reports here of it's comparitive sensitivity to the CECB's, but with a straight, open shot toward fringe stations, I stand by the order of sensitivity that I listed above with those models.

I'm hearing speculation around here that a maybe new Samsung model is on the way anyway, so maybe you'd want to at least wait to see if more info on that comes up.

Hope that helps.

Whidbey

10-17-08, 02:41 PM

b1gmoose -
I have almost the exact same set-up you do, and I own a DTB-H260F. Here's a few points that may answer some of your questions.

* I own an Insignia CECB, which is a clone of the Zenith. I've found very little, if any, difference in tuner performance. So, if you are getting nice strong signals with your Zeniths, you should be happy with the Samsung.

* I have a Sony 27" TV with component inputs. I use the component video ins to display the Samsung. Picture quality is vastly superior to the Insignia running through composite. Colors are richer, blacks are black, and the picture is sharper. On a 27" TV, HD shows look almost as good as they do on an HDTV.

* You can tune to the "physical channel" number, and if there is enough signal there the tuner will display it and remap to the virtual channel if needed. It will retain that channel in it's memory. This is especially handy if you have a rotator and pick up signals from multiple directions. Run a scan, jot down the physical channel numbers (you have to be quick with the pen...), then rotate the antenna, rescan, then manually add the channels deleted in the second scan.

* It can display the signal strength. However it's not quite as handy as the Zenith box. Signal strength is accessed through a series of menus when you are tuned to a channel. So, you can't do a "manual scan" like you can with the Zenith box. This should not be a deal-breaker for you since you already have the Zenith boxes for that function.

* Heat has not been a problem with my Samsung. I've only experienced a couple of oddities with it. One time there was no sound, however when I turned it off and back on the problem was fixed. Another time I was using the guide and went out as far into the future as the guide would allow, then I started scrolling up and down through the channels. It ran out of memory and was unable to display the guide. Both of these things were isolated incidents and I would say that the Samsung has been 99.99% trouble free for me.

Just ask here if you have more questions.

b1gmoose

10-17-08, 02:54 PM

I've had the Zenith, CM and the Samsung (DTVPal, too), and the Samsung is the least sensitive of the bunch.

In order of sensitivity:

Channel Master
DTVPal
Zenith
Samsung

If your TV's are 4:3, the Samsung might not be the best choice, because unless the TV's have a zoom mode, all 4:3 material on HD channels can only be kept in the correct proportional aspect by leaving them letterboxed. Also, unless it's connected through component, you won't get any of the menu's, guide or text (not even the channel numbers and banners).

If you're using 4:3 analog sets, the CM-7000 will give you the best sensitivity and PQ, as long as the sets have s-video in. If not, the composite PQ is about equal to the Zenith's.

The Samsung does have a nice guide, but the DTVPal/TR-40's is even better. The new DTVPal "Plus" is supposed to have an even more sensitive tuner. The only problem is, if you're after the best PQ, the DTVPal won't give you anything near that.

The Channel Master's guide is pretty good, though.

b1gmoose -
I have almost the exact same set-up you do, and I own a DTB-H260F. Here's a few points that may answer some of your questions.

* I own an Insignia CECB, which is a clone of the Zenith. I've found very little, if any, difference in tuner performance. So, if you are getting nice strong signals with your Zeniths, you should be happy with the Samsung.

* I have a Sony 27" TV with component inputs. I use the component video ins to display the Samsung. Picture quality is vastly superior to the Insignia running through composite. Colors are richer, blacks are black, and the picture is sharper. On a 27" TV, HD shows look almost as good as they do on an HDTV.

* You can tune to the "physical channel" number, and if there is enough signal there the tuner will display it and remap to the virtual channel if needed. It will retain that channel in it's memory. This is especially handy if you have a rotator and pick up signals from multiple directions. Run a scan, jot down the physical channel numbers (you have to be quick with the pen...), then rotate the antenna, rescan, then manually add the channels deleted in the second scan.

* It can display the signal strength. However it's not quite as handy as the Zenith box. Signal strength is accessed through a series of menus when you are tuned to a channel. So, you can't do a "manual scan" like you can with the Zenith box. This should not be a deal-breaker for you since you already have the Zenith boxes for that function.

* Heat has not been a problem with my Samsung. I've only experienced a couple of oddities with it. One time there was no sound, however when I turned it off and back on the problem was fixed. Another time I was using the guide and went out as far into the future as the guide would allow, then I started scrolling up and down through the channels. It ran out of memory and was unable to display the guide. Both of these things were isolated incidents and I would say that the Samsung has been 99.99% trouble free for me.

Just ask here if you have more questions.

Thanks for the responses. So when comparing this to the Zenith, or other CECB. WCAX and WPTZ both have 80% +- signal strength, but randomly they drop out and down to 50% or nothing at all. Then they come back. This might happen for periods of 5 mins and then be fine for the rest of the program.

Have you had similar dropouts with the H260F?

Not what I wanted to hear on tuner sensitivity. I wish I knew someone with one so I could test it and see if it will be sufficient in my location.

My tv can go to 16:9 mode if I select it in the menu. Otherwise it's in 4:3 mode.

My tv will do s-video input, but I really like the PQ with component when doing a comparison from my DVD player.

It's good to know that this box is fairly reliable. I've noticed it has some HDMI issues nwo and then, but I'm not going to use that so I should be ok.

I'm just looking for best bang for my buck and to extend the life of equipment I already have. I'll use the zenith CECB upstairs in the bedroom and give the other one to my grandparents. If I get the H260F

Thanks,

~ryan

MrBostn

10-17-08, 02:59 PM

Up here in Boston, I've been using the h260f with my projector for about 9 months now, and I just noticed that I don't pull in all the same qam channels I used to. I used to pickup neighbors ppv. I even used to get ppv then run up turn on my projector and watch it there. Cheap workaround.

Scooper

10-17-08, 03:28 PM

The Samsung was the first ATSC tuner I had in my house, and at least for me - it works pretty well (22 miles from most stations, in the middle of a forest). In my experiance, the Samsung is about as good as the CECBs for sensitivity, but keep in mind the gotchas mentioned previously.

While the Sammy does have composite / S-Video outputs, on a 16:9 output they will be squished together from the sides. The only screen formating is for the HDMI and component outputs, and it really doesn't work well on 480i / 480p - I think you would be happier with the CECBs on a 4:3 TV. Also, the Sammy is NOT smart enough to switch aspect ratios as programs/channels change (fortunately, it is a button on the remote).

Rammitinski

10-17-08, 03:55 PM

Yeah, that was my main point. The Sammy's not really made for 4:3, 480i TV's, and not really the best (or only) choice anymore.

There are a few really good CECB's that would be more appropriate now - especially, in his case, where sensitivity is concerned.

(Read my amendment in my post above near the end about "fringe" situations.)

jjeff

10-17-08, 04:07 PM

b1gmoose

10-17-08, 04:12 PM

I take it you don't live near a BB or CC? Otherwise I'd just pick one up and try it. If it doesn't preform well enough you could just return it for your money back within 30 days.
As far as what's been said I'd have to agree with Rammitinski (although I don't have a DTVPal). In your situation I'd be more inclined to get a CM-7000 for a CRT based TV. I just don't think you'll notice that big of a difference with the component. I know I didn't on my 24" Sony Wega CRT TV(with component inputs), which is one of the reasons I returned the Sammy. I also think you may have problems with signal strength on the Sammy. It's not bad by any stretch but not quite up to the Zenith or CM CECBs.

Nearest BB or CC is almost 2 hours.:D

So besides the CECB's and the sammy, what other devices are similar to the sammy? Are there any 6th gen converter boxes that are not CECB with similar features to the sammy?

I'm also one of those people that tends to hang onto things for a long time and maybe next year I'll buy a used HDTV and the sammy would be great for it with the HDMI outputs.

Thanks for the help guys.

~ryan

Scooper

10-17-08, 04:51 PM

I've hooked my Sammy up to LCD computer displays with DVI inputs (using an HDMI / DVI convertor cable), and when you combine that with some PC speakers - it actually isn't too bad of a make-shift HDTV (worked better with a widescreen display, obviously).

Rammitinski

10-17-08, 04:59 PM

Nearest BB or CC is almost 2 hours.:D

So besides the CECB's and the sammy, what other devices are similar to the sammy? Are there any 6th gen converter boxes that are not CECB with similar features to the sammy?Not that I'm aware of. Just computer tuner cards/sticks maybe, but those seem to not be up to par with the standalone units as far as PQ and/or sensitivity.

Like I said, there *may* be a new Samsung on the way, though.

There are a few other HD tuners available, but as far as I know, no 6th gen. ones. You can check the sticky at the top of the page here for that. There are also independent threads here for some of them.

jjeff

10-17-08, 05:03 PM

Although most are even older generation, than the Sammy. Which translates to poorer fringe reception.

JHBrandt

10-19-08, 12:07 AM

My Sammy died today. I don't know if my wife turned it off or if it just went off on its own, but it wouldn't turn back on. Naturally the 1-year warranty just expired last month :mad:

Since it was out of warranty, I opened the box. There is a fuse inside but that was good. So it was off to BB to buy another HDTV receiver. Luckily they had one Sammy still in stock (but nothing else besides CECBs).

I still have the bad box. Monday I plan on calling 1-800-SAMSUNG and finding out whether it can be fixed for less than what I paid for the new one. If so I'll get it fixed, then return the new one to BB (assuming it takes < 30 days to fix!)

I'm wondering if it died from excess heat. The only big complaint I've had with the Sammy is the need to leave it on constantly for the RF pass-through to work. That, plus the time it takes to start up when first turned on, got me in the habit of just leaving it on 24/7.

There won't be much need for RF pass-through after Feb. Maybe I should start getting in the habit of turning it off and just suffering through the long turn-on delay.

Anyone else have a similar experience?

b1gmoose

10-20-08, 09:30 AM

Not that I'm aware of. Just computer tuner cards/sticks maybe, but those seem to not be up to par with the standalone units as far as PQ and/or sensitivity.

Like I said, there *may* be a new Samsung on the way, though.

There are a few other HD tuners available, but as far as I know, no 6th gen. ones. You can check the sticky at the top of the page here for that. There are also independent threads here for some of them.

Although most are even older generation, than the Sammy. Which translates to poorer fringe reception.

Thanks for the help guys. Looks like I'll end up picking up a CM7000 for the time being. Unless anybody knows when Samsung will release a 6th gen STB that has decent sensitivity.

If BB wasn't 2 hrs away, I'd go buy one & test it here to see if it'd work for me.

Thanks,

~ryan

b1gmoose

10-20-08, 08:42 PM

So it doesn't look good for getting an updated H260F.

Here is what samsung told me via email:

" Thank you for contacting Samsung E-mail support,
Unfortunately, we don't have any pre-release information on any Samsung digital set top boxes. Most of the updated set top boxes that we're releasing at this point are specifically produced and supported by cable and satellite companies, and are not designed specifically for OTA use."

Given the length of this thread, maybe there are enough people who have a H260F and would like an updated version, we could start an email campaign?

Are there any wordsmiths out there that could draft up a sample request ?

Key points (add any you think would be beneficial to an updated H260F):
What we love about it compared to the CECB's. Drawbacks of CECB's compared to the H260F. Potential features that could be added?

Maybe they could atleast send out an updated firmware to fix the 4:3/16:9 ratio problems or other software issues it may have. That might tide the users over for awhile.

~ryan

JHBrandt

10-21-08, 10:17 PM

My Sammy died today. I don't know if my wife turned it off or if it just went off on its own, but it wouldn't turn back on. Naturally the 1-year warranty just expired last month :mad:

Since it was out of warranty, I opened the box. There is a fuse inside but that was good. So it was off to BB to buy another HDTV receiver. Luckily they had one Sammy still in stock (but nothing else besides CECBs).

I still have the bad box. Monday I plan on calling 1-800-SAMSUNG and finding out whether it can be fixed for less than what I paid for the new one. If so I'll get it fixed, then return the new one to BB (assuming it takes < 30 days to fix!)

Good news from Samsung. They told me they would give me a 90-day grace period on the warranty, so I can get it fixed for just the shipping cost to NJ :D I'm sending the bad box off for repairs tomorrow.

Without the grace period it'd cost me a $107 flat repair fee. Not cheap but a lot less than a new one (BB still has them at $179.95), so I would've gone through with the repair anyway.

armand1

10-22-08, 01:26 PM

Channel Master CM-7000 VS. Samsung DTB-H260F

I just bought the Channel Master CM-7000 and I think it's the best BOX on the market, if you want a sensitive tuner with the best picture quality (@480i) for a CRT.

I live in northwest DC, in an urban setting with tall buildings, and with lots of interference from every direction. Most of the stations are a couple of miles from me. With a roof top antenna I can get all of the DC/MD/VA stations, including Baltimore and Annapolis 35 miles away without dropouts.

Here are some of the things I noticed about Channel Master CM-7000:

PROS:

- The main strength in my opinion is the reception and picture quality. I also own the Samsung DTB-H260F High Definition box and the CM has better reception and the picture quality comes close to 480p picture quality using the SVideo cable. It seems the CM has the latest Sixth generation chip(?), unlike other tuners that have the fifth or even fourth gen. The reception is vastly improved as compared to the Sammy.

- In my urban environment it handles multipath reception issues very well. It locks into all channels, even 20-30% signal strength without any dropouts. Reception with my Samsung DTB-H260F is very good but with the CM I get all local channels at 100% and also stations at 30 miles or farther. With the Samsung I would have to rotate the antenna sometimes to get all the channels because of interference and multipath issues. With the CM no need to use a rotator.

- As someone mentioned on this page the CM has some magic in the box that locks in the station with very little or no dropouts. Even in the few instances that the picture drops out the audio is still there and doesn't cut out. What bothers me the most about the other boxes is the total loss of picture and audio.

- Fast channel changes (about 1.5-2.5 seconds).

- Turns on in about 4 sec.

- Capability to update and add new channels without loosing the old ones is a big plus.

- Great picture with Svideo, to me it looks just like a 480p quality similar to progressive scan DVD quality.

- Good price, I got it for $24 (after coupon) plus shipping

- Nice and small

CONS:

- Has anyone noticed how warm this box gets? Which makes me worry about the durability.

- It is more prone to interference, than the Sammy, but the trade off is higher signal strength and sensitivity, thus more channels to watch.

- Menu display is cheaply designed and blocks viewing of the screen

- The box's exterior could be more attractive.

- The buttons are very cheap. The On/Off button was slightly depressed and when I pushed it in further it jammed into the box. It was just misaligned and I fixed it by taking the top cover off and repositioning it. I probably will never use these buttons, only the remote.

Now that I'm sold on the CM7000 how do we hack these boxes to ouptut a High definiton signal using component or HDMI.
Is it possible?

paris_tn

10-22-08, 04:20 PM

armand, is the cm7000 not 1080i? I would love that box but i need something with 1080i.

Scooper

10-22-08, 04:22 PM

armand, is the cm7000 not 1080i? I would love that box but i need something with 1080i.

The CM7000 is a CECB and as such has no outputs capable of HDTV.

paris_tn

10-22-08, 05:12 PM

Why doesn't some company make a 6th gen of hdtv? Maybe they think it isn't enough market for ota or people buying a tuner that is hdtv. I understand why they concentrate on the analog changing over as they think the feb deadline will move alot of product. I just wish Samsung, CM or some company would make something with updates like the 260f. The cm7000 does sound like a very nice unit.

armand1

10-22-08, 05:31 PM

Paris_tn,
The CM7000 is listed as 480i output, but thru the Svideo output it looks like 480p with my eyes. So thru the Svideo output, it is a much better picture, but not HDTV (720p or 1080i). I think most untrained eyes would say it is close to HDTV.
I split the screen on my Toshiba CRT HDTV with the CM7000 on one side and Sammy260 on the other and on the same channel with a HD source, it is close.

Even thought I still like my Sammy 260, and reception of the CM7000, I surely would like to hack into the CM7000 to get HD output. Has anyone tried it yet?

paris_tn

10-28-08, 04:35 PM

I just ordered a 260f, holding out as long as i could for a newer 1080i 6th generation. Maybe in the next few months something else will come out and improve on the short commings of the 260f and it be 1080i. Two inputs would have been great on this and an easier way to add channels and losing channels when you do a rescan.

I have a few questions on the 260f when i get it in. All my tv stations will be fringe to deep fringe and i will be using antennas with a rotor. For me to really get everything in all directions, everytime i scan for channels i can pick up, should i jot them down and keep a log of them? Because at some point when i scan, play and find any or all stations i can get, then i will need to put them in and leave it. Has anyone in here really got technical and put in each channel number and gone really slow with turning your antenna, searching for stations on each channel from vhf to uhf? I know we can look at tvfool to get a reference what we might get.

I was reading in here, where if you just delete a channel, it leaves it behind in the tv guide and makes going thru the guide slower. So in the end, is it best to find any and every channel you can pick up, then unplug the antenna and do a scan and clear out all channels, then hook antenna back up scan in direction where you get most your stations, then look at your log and enter all other stations you have searched and found in other directions?

armand, if anyone can make the cm7000 display 1080i or if cm comes out with a 1080i model, i will pick one of them up also. It sounds nice and very sensitive picking things up.

jjeff

10-28-08, 04:58 PM

Possibly after the CECB program is over we'll see something like a HD CM box or a CM box with digital audio out, but I wouldn't hold my breath. Good luck with your Sammy, keep us posted on how it works on your fringe stations.

Scooper

10-28-08, 05:03 PM

One NICE thing about the Samsung is that after you do a scan, all you have to do to add additional channels is to enter their RF (actual) channel number, then it will remember the virtual channel number. No need to delete / start over. Just rotate the antenna, enter the RF channel, repeat.

paris_tn

10-28-08, 05:16 PM

I agree jjeff as these companies now are concentrating on analog to digital only and thinking it will be a big craze for Feb deadline and they are right, it should be and they should sell alot of product. If i was CM or Samsung and they would make one with two antenna inputs, pick up like the cm7000, plus add some things where maybe the 260f left off or just update and make better, i feel cm or Samsung would have another good product that would sell, even though i know it would be a higher price product.

Thanks Scooper for the info. This way i could fine tune(after the scan) and see what channels i could pick up by rotating the ant real slow and just adding real channel, rf. I am going to be deep fringe and i will let everyone know how i do and what it picks up. I am afraid my rotor won't make it this week but i should get alot put up this weekend and then rotor the next.

Rammitinski

10-28-08, 06:57 PM

paris_tn

10-28-08, 09:20 PM

toby10

10-29-08, 07:10 AM

Naw - you won't see any new HD tuners coming out.

For old, analog sets, there's the CECB's - for HD there are new sets with built-in tuners. That's what a.) the government, and b.) the manufacturers want to manipulate people into buying - the expensive new sets.

I think it's more consumer demand than anything. Most consumers don't want a separate tuner, they want everything built in.
The vast majority of HDTV owners either don't need (or are unaware of) the benefits of a separate HD tuner. ;)

jtbell

10-29-08, 07:41 AM

Most consumers don't want a separate tuner, they want everything built in.

Most people don't need a separate tuner. The vast majority of HDTV-viewing devices now sold in the US have built-in ATSC tuners. The exceptions are basically front projectors and some flat-panel displays which don't have any tuners at all and are sold as "monitors," not "TVs".

So the market for a separate HDTV tuner (as opposed to a CECB) consists of:

People who buy HD front-projectors and want to watch OTA TV;

People who bought an HDTV monitor for use with cable or satellite only (figuring on saving money by buying a unit without a tuner), then decided later that they want to try OTA;

People (like me) who bought an "HD-ready" TV (with only an NTSC tuner) before built-in ATSC tuners were required, and few TVs had them. In my case, I already had a few HD tuners on hand from experimenting with digital TV reception with my old analog TV, so this wasn't a problem for me.

This market is pretty small, so it shouldn't be surprising that manufacturers are focusing for now on the much larger CECB market. I expect that after next year we'll see one or two updated models of external HDTV tuners, but they're definitely not going to be mass-market items, and I doubt they will be sub-$100 items.

toby10

10-29-08, 07:53 AM

Most people don't need a separate tuner. The vast majority of HDTV-viewing devices now sold in the US have built-in ATSC tuners. The exceptions are basically front projectors and some flat-panel displays which don't have any tuners at all and are sold as "monitors," not "TVs".

So the market for a separate HDTV tuner (as opposed to a CECB) consists of:

People who buy HD front-projectors and want to watch OTA TV;

People who bought an HDTV monitor for use with cable or satellite only (figuring on saving money by buying a unit without a tuner), then decided later that they want to try OTA;

People (like me) who bought an "HD-ready" TV (with only an NTSC tuner) before built-in ATSC tuners were required, and few TVs had them. In my case, I already had a few HD tuners on hand from experimenting with digital TV reception with my old analog TV, so this wasn't a problem for me.

This market is pretty small, so it shouldn't be surprising that manufacturers are focusing for now on the much larger CECB market. I expect that after next year we'll see one or two updated models of external HDTV tuners, but they're definitely not going to be mass-market items, and I doubt they will be sub-$100 items.

Yup, exactly! A small market indeed. I'm in the Plasma monitor segment you mentioned. But this was by design, not an oversight. My TV is on a completely separate wall than where my AV rack is so having any/all tuners in the rack greatly simplifies wiring and setup. Much more flexible system this way.

My other Plasma has the built in tuners (ATSC, NTSC, Cable) as it's intended use and location does not require any additional AV setup issues.

doublejack

10-29-08, 12:08 PM

I guess that is true and maybe they feel everyone will be on cable. I do have cable but want to mess around with ota also. My plasma doesn't even have a tuner build in. A Pioneer Fhd1 plasma and i think Pioneer is making and selling another one now that has no tuner built in.

Well, any plasma that doesn't have a built-in tuner is not being marketed as a TV, but rather as a monitor. It's been a government requirement for a while now that all HD television sets above a certain size must have a built-in HD tuner. So there shouldn't be many, if any, people who are buying what they think is a "TV" and don't have a tuner.

I agree with the sentiment that the market for HD tuners is too small to warrant a bunch of new products. My hope was that one of the CECB's would be hackable for either HD output and/or QAM reception. Alas, there's been no progress on either front and there simply aren't any <$100 HD tuners to be had. I own two small HD sets (an 18" LCD and a 24" LCD) without tuners, and there just aren't any inexpensive options for OTA or QAM HD reception. I didn't mind buying an H260F for my 42" plasma, but it's hard to justify that kind of expense on much cheaper TV's.

bcarlsen

10-29-08, 12:39 PM

Search ebay for Hisense DB-2010. The units were originally used for pay OTA service. Make sure you get one that has been flashed to get free OTA.

Dreifort

10-29-08, 02:55 PM

toby10

10-29-08, 03:17 PM

quick question (sorry if this is a dumb question - tv tuners is an area i never ventured into until now)....

will the SAMSUNG DTB-H260F tuner allow me to receive all the Cable Channels I get from my provider now - that I pay monthly for, that I get now WITHOUT a cable box from my cable co.?

Right now I get about 50 channels - without using a cable box, just plug in TV and go. Not digital either.

I am wanting to plug the H260F into an LCD computer monitor I have via the HDMI.

Thanks.

The H260f is a digital only tuner so it won't tune in any analogs and send them via HDMI. I'd guess in it's passthrough mode the analogs would pass but that's only via the coax "F" cable out (RG6/RG59).

Why would you bother with HDMI for analogs anyway? For analog to a small computer screen I'd look for a much cheaper analog tuner that can send via S-video or Composite.

Dreifort

10-29-08, 03:52 PM

the monitor is a Samsung TOC 26"... i use it in a dual monitor setup on my desktop, but wanted a way to utilize the 26" as a TV when I so desired. ;)

so does that also mean any DVDrecorders with built in RF Tuners will not allow me to watch TV on my LCD monitor by connecting it via HDMI?

Dreifort

10-29-08, 04:18 PM

The H260f is a digital only tuner so it won't tune in any analogs and send them via HDMI. I'd guess in it's passthrough mode the analogs would pass but that's only via the coax "F" cable out (RG6/RG59).

Why would you bother with HDMI for analogs anyway? For analog to a small computer screen I'd look for a much cheaper analog tuner that can send via S-video or Composite.

I called Samsung and they called you a liar...lol.

But you may be right - how can you trust a phone operator? lol. She put me on hold to check my question. She came back 3 mins later (kinda fast) and said it would work. Did she put the phone on hold, check her facebook, then pick me back up and go... "yeah...it will work."?

lol. So according to a Samsung phone op, she said the analog signal would carry through and work.

FYI - found the manual: http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200610/20061012132223296_1012_DTB-H260F_MF68-00414A_book.pdf

The manual does state:
1 ANT OUT
Use to connect your TV using a coaxial cable. The
received RF signals from ANT / CABLE IN are bypassed
for analog channels.
2 ANT / CABLE IN
Connect the AIR antenna or CATV antenna here.
Connect the cable in the event that a local cable
provider is passing through 8-level Vestigial Sideband
(8VSB) and Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM)
on their systems.

bcarlsen

10-29-08, 04:41 PM

Dreifort

10-29-08, 05:07 PM

You do understand that using the bypass mode means that you will not use the tuner in the Samsung box, right? So you will still need a different tuner. Also, most monitors do not have speakers. Do you have a different plan for playing the audio?

The Samsung TOC260 has built in speakers. I am not wanting a home theatre here....just the ability to watch TV in my office without having a TV. I want to utilize one of my 2 monitors as a TV. I also would like to use it as a TV without having my computer on - so trying to avoid a computer tuner.

If all else fails for audio, I have self powered computer speakres (4.1).

toby10

10-29-08, 05:18 PM

I called Samsung and they called you a liar...lol.

But you may be right - how can you trust a phone operator? lol. She put me on hold to check my question. She came back 3 mins later (kinda fast) and said it would work. Did she put the phone on hold, check her facebook, then pick me back up and go... "yeah...it will work."?

lol. So according to a Samsung phone op, she said the analog signal would carry through and work.

FYI - found the manual: http://downloadcenter.samsung.com/content/UM/200610/20061012132223296_1012_DTB-H260F_MF68-00414A_book.pdf

The manual does state:
1 ANT OUT
Use to connect your TV using a coaxial cable. The
received RF signals from ANT / CABLE IN are bypassed
for analog channels.
2 ANT / CABLE IN
Connect the AIR antenna or CATV antenna here.
Connect the cable in the event that a local cable
provider is passing through 8-level Vestigial Sideband
(8VSB) and Quadrature Amplitude Modulation (QAM)
on their systems.

Exactly what part is the dingbat at Samsung support saying I am wrong about?

Call her back and ask her "if the H260f is a *digital only* OTA ATSC and QAM tuner, exactly what settings would I use to tune in the analog cable channels I am currently getting and then how do I output those via HDMI?"

I think she either did not understand your question, or you asked the wrong question. :rolleyes:

Analog will *only* be passed through (not tuned) and *only* passed via the "F" coax connector.
No other H260 output (HDMI, Composite, Component, S-video) will pass the analog cable channels. ;)

Your two referenced "ANT IN and ANT OUT" are exactly what I stated originally. These are the "F" connectors on coax cable connections.
What does that have to do with HDMI?

I really think you are barking up the wrong tree here. You need a simple analog cable tuner.
All of your included 50 analog channels may not even be available via QAM.

jjeff

10-29-08, 06:43 PM

quick question (sorry if this is a dumb question - tv tuners is an area i never ventured into until now)....

will the SAMSUNG DTB-H260F tuner allow me to receive all the Cable Channels I get from my provider now - that I pay monthly for, that I get now WITHOUT a cable box from my cable co.?

Right now I get about 50 channels - without using a cable box, just plug in TV and go. Not digital either.

I am wanting to plug the H260F into an LCD computer monitor I have via the HDMI.

Thanks.

You could get either an older analog DVDR w/HDMI output (like a Panasonic ES-25) or if you wanted the QAM in the clear channels you could get a newer DVDR with digital tuner that outputs HDMI. Most newer DVDRs output HDMI but don't have a tuner at all built in.
You should be able to find a ES-25 used for ~$50(guess) or a new digital tunered DVDR ~$150. The cheapest Panny with a digital tuner would run you around $230 new, it's the EZ-28.
Last years EZ-27 would also work but is quite buggy although if just using for the tuner it may be OK. Personally I wouldn't pay much over $75 for a used EZ-27.

Rammitinski

10-29-08, 07:50 PM

I am wanting to plug the H260F into an LCD computer monitor I have via the HDMI.Something like the Panasonic EZ-28 should give you just about as good PQ as an HD tuner would on a smaller computer monitor. It has very good PQ for an SD tuner.

kb7oeb

10-29-08, 10:37 PM

Tivo HD and the upcoming DTVPal DVR would fill the need for an OTA HD tuner.

auskck

10-29-08, 11:16 PM

I have this box and it works well. But for $50-100 more you can get a HDD DVR recorder with both digital and analog tuners from Walmart.
Philips $289
Magnavox $240
The Maggie is a clone of the Philips same company.
Both have 160GB HDD and DVD burner.
I own both the PQ is great upconvert std DVD to 1080P wih HDMI connection.
http://www.walmart.com/search/search-ng.do?search_constraint=0&ic=48_0&search_query=dvd+recorder&Find.x=20&Find.y=5&Find=Find

kb7oeb

10-29-08, 11:29 PM

Typically these recorders convert the signal to 480i and then upconvert to 1080i losing all the extra resolution.

Rammitinski

10-30-08, 02:49 AM

The PQ from the digital tuners of those two HDD models pales in comparison to that of the Panasonic recorder, but, as I said, on a small computer screen, you may not notice that much. You might really prefer having the HDD, too.

But it won't be nearly as close to the Samsung's PQ as the Panasonic would be (again, on that small computer monitor). Much more sharpness and detail, and less noise with the Panasonic. Just a better digital tuner. The Funai's are also more sensitive to copy protection, and the QC of their QAM tuners can be very iffy (although it seems the Magnavox, possibly just by virtue of it's being newer, seems to have less complaints so far when it comes to these issues).

Dreifort

10-30-08, 10:01 AM

Thanks for everyone's reply. I was looking at a LG DVDr that had a built in tuner, but then noticed the tuner only Samsung H260F.

I saw in the manual where it didn't mention analog signal being carried via the RF, but two ppl, the Samsung phone rep - who I asked if their box would allow me to view analog TV signal via HDMI output - and a Best Buy specialist both said the box would do what I want. (They have box at BB for $179, the H260F.)

I am leaning more towards the LG DVDr now. My only prob with the LG was what some of the replies stated. It goes 1080 to 480 back to 1080 on high def channels.

Dreifort

10-30-08, 10:08 AM

Your two referenced "ANT IN and ANT OUT" are exactly what I stated originally. These are the "F" connectors on coax cable connections.
What does that have to do with HDMI?

I really think you are barking up the wrong tree here. You need a simple analog cable tuner.
All of your included 50 analog channels may not even be available via QAM.

My Samsung TOC 26" LCD monitor only has DVI and HDMI inputs. The DVI is connected to my desktop (1 of 2 Samsung monitors in a dual setup). I wanted to have the ability to watch TV on the 26" monitor some days. So I am looking for something to plug in the HDMI that will let me use my existing analog TV signal from my cable company.

I noticed the Samsung H260F had the RF input I needed to connect my analog cable. And it also had the HDMI output to connect to my monitor.

But if you're right, you're saying the H260F will not be able to tune the channels from an analog signal (via H260F HDTV tuner along with included remote control)? and then send video out via HDMI to the monitor?

toby10

10-30-08, 10:44 AM

My Samsung TOC 26" LCD monitor only has DVI and HDMI inputs. The DVI is connected to my desktop (1 of 2 Samsung monitors in a dual setup). I wanted to have the ability to watch TV on the 26" monitor some days. So I am looking for something to plug in the HDMI that will let me use my existing analog TV signal from my cable company.

I noticed the Samsung H260F had the RF input I needed to connect my analog cable. And it also had the HDMI output to connect to my monitor.

But if you're right, you're saying the H260F will not be able to tune the channels from an analog signal (via H260F HDTV tuner along with included remote control)? and then send video out via HDMI to the monitor?

Correct. Analog is pass through to the RF output only. If you have only analog cable channels you will not get any of them to output via HDMI from the H260f.

Now, that said, the H260f can do some other things via the HDMI output:
- tune in digital QAM ch's (local ch's in HD, assuming your cable co offers them in HD via QAM, better check)
- tune in digital OTA HD locals (requires a TV antenna, simple rabbit ears may work depending on how far you are from your local TV towers)

Again, note DIGITAL ch's above. The H260f will be completely blind to anything in analog.

What you really need (but I have no clue if they exist) is a tuner that can do all of the above PLUS:
- QAM analog
- analog cable tuner (like what is in your TV presently)

Keep in mind QAM (analog, digital, or both) offers very limited service. Usually the cable co's only put your local ch's on QAM (they must by FCC rules) plus some shopping ch's and digital music ch's. Some people luck out with additional QAM programming, but that is very rare. Also QAM usually provides no program data whatsoever. But, legally, if the cable co gives you ONLY your local ch's via QAM, that is all that is required of them.

Another option would be to simply rent a HDMI output cable box from your cable co.

Your limitations are really due to your monitor having only HDMI. If it had Component or Composite or S-video or RF (all fine for analog) you'd be set with many more devices out there to accomplish your goal, and for far less $$$. :)

ms123d

10-30-08, 03:03 PM

Hi I have the DTB-H260F tuner.. I'm in Orange County with basic cable, I'm using this tuner by plugging in my cable into the box to get the local HD programming onto my LCD TV

However, for some odd reason, lately KCAL-9 HD.. (which was at 9-1), is no longer available... saying something about scrambled signal or whatever

Does anyone know what happened to KCAL... what I could do to obtain that signal again?

THANKS!

Also, are there any other boxes that will isolate local HD-signals from a cable like the Samsung tuner but one that also has recording capability?

THANKS A BUNCH

toby10

10-30-08, 03:23 PM

TeddyR

10-30-08, 09:18 PM

Correct. Analog is pass through to the RF output only. If you have only analog cable channels you will not get any of them to output via HDMI from the H260f.

Now, that said, the H260f can do some other things via the HDMI output:
- tune in digital QAM ch's (local ch's in HD, assuming your cable co offers them in HD via QAM, better check)
- tune in digital OTA HD locals (requires a TV antenna, simple rabbit ears may work depending on how far you are from your local TV towers)

Again, note DIGITAL ch's above. The H260f will be completely blind to anything in analog.

What you really need (but I have no clue if they exist) is a tuner that can do all of the above PLUS:
- QAM analog
- analog cable tuner (like what is in your TV presently)

Keep in mind QAM (analog, digital, or both) offers very limited service. Usually the cable co's only put your local ch's on QAM (they must by FCC rules) plus some shopping ch's and digital music ch's. Some people luck out with additional QAM programming, but that is very rare. Also QAM usually provides no program data whatsoever. But, legally, if the cable co gives you ONLY your local ch's via QAM, that is all that is required of them.

Another option would be to simply rent a HDMI output cable box from your cable co.

Your limitations are really due to your monitor having only HDMI. If it had Component or Composite or S-video or RF (all fine for analog) you'd be set with many more devices out there to accomplish your goal, and for far less $$$. :)
Take a look at the PHD-205 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=638769).

Add to it a DVI to HDMI Converter (Monoprice product 2029 ~$4.00) or Cable (monoprice product 2218 for a 6ft cable ~$8.00) from Monoprice.com, and you may have what you are looking for (with the exception of the DVR function)..

PS: I own and use both the PHD-205 and the DTB-H260F...

toby10

10-31-08, 05:17 AM

Take a look at the PHD-205 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=638769).

Add to it a DVI to HDMI Converter (Monoprice product 2029 ~$4.00) or Cable (monoprice product 2218 for a 6ft cable ~$8.00) from Monoprice.com, and you may have what you are looking for (with the exception of the DVR function)..

PS: I own and use both the PHD-205 and the DTB-H260F...

Yeah, but it's essentially the same thing with an added NTSC OTA tuner (which is pretty much useless in a few months). What the OP needs is an analog cable tuner, based on his stated goal of wanting to view his 50 analog cable ch's.

Rammitinski

10-31-08, 06:12 AM

toby10

10-31-08, 06:21 AM

An old VCR won't cost him anything if he or someone he knows has got one lying around not being used.

F.Y.I. - The tuners on the LG's are good, but the recorder itself sucks. Check the "DVD Recorders" forum here if you want to learn more about DVD recorders. Don't go by online store reviews - they're often not very dependable.

Yup, VCR tuner would be the simplest and the cheapest way to go in most cases. But, unfortunately, he is limited to HDMI input only.
That pretty much takes the VCR out of the picture (no pun intended). :)

Rammitinski

11-01-08, 01:42 AM

Forgot about that.

For a DVD recorder, I'd still go for the Panasonic over the LG. Here's a screenshot of the Panny's downscaled HD PQ:

http://www.upload2world.com/pic101/upload2world_587ad.jpg

Budget_HT

11-01-08, 02:03 AM

Yeah, but it's essentially the same thing with an added NTSC OTA tuner (which is pretty much useless in a few months). What the OP needs is an analog cable tuner, based on his stated goal of wanting to view his 50 analog cable ch's.

The PHD-205 that I set up for a friend of mine tunes both analog NTSC channels and digital QAM channels just fine from his Comcast cable feed.

The NTSC tuner supports both analog OTA and analog cable.

toby10

11-01-08, 07:46 AM

The PHD-205 that I set up for a friend of mine tunes both analog NTSC channels and digital QAM channels just fine from his Comcast cable feed.

The NTSC tuner supports both analog OTA and analog cable.

Ah, then that may work for him. With a DVI to HDMI adapter and running seperate audio that may be a good fit for him.

Thanks. ;)

Budget_HT

11-01-08, 09:50 AM

FWIW, the PHD-205 also provides better support for displaying widescreen programs on a 4x3 HD-ready TV, without the viewer having to change settings every time they switch between 4x3 broadcasts and 16x9 HD broadcasts. The Samsung was not friendly to a 4x3 HD-ready TV.

One thing we did not care for on the PHD-205 was the remote with small buttons that had to be pressed hard to work. I have not asked him if the remote has "loosened up" over time.

toby10

11-01-08, 10:13 AM

DL6305

11-07-08, 01:05 PM

jeff2631

11-07-08, 01:15 PM

Did you try MENU, Setup, Sound Output, PCM
Also use the remote to increase volume to 100

toby10

11-07-08, 02:09 PM

Just out of the box and hooked up with component cables and audio cables...hooked to HD ready Panasonic TAU...with 20 year old antenna in the attic, the picture is great, but no matter what I do, there's no sound....I know this has been an issue with this tuner from the get-go, but is there a solution?

Jeff is correct about setting your box to PCM if you are using digital audio from your box (Optical, HDMI). If you are using analog audio (L/R rca's) then the PCM or DD selection is irrelevant.

I keep my H260f set to DD with analog audio to the TV and Optical audio to the AVR. This way, for programming that I don't deem DD necessary (news, sitcoms, general programming), I just use the TV speakers. If DD is preferred (movies, sports, etc..) I just flip on the AVR for full surround treatment. :)

You may want to temporarily hook up another device to that same audio input on your TV to verify that input is operating correctly. Most HDTV's today have selectable audio inputs that can be assigned to different video inputs. You may have to mess with your TV's audio menu options to get audio.

DL6305

11-08-08, 11:03 AM

Thanks for your help. Turns out my HD ready Panasonic TV had some quirkiness. The component input from my new tuner gave me a high quality picture with "component 1" input, but only sound with "video 1", so that's where I am...with fiddling, I now have free and excellent OTA HD!

hawkfan

11-09-08, 10:00 PM

bcarlsen

11-10-08, 06:46 AM

toby10

11-10-08, 07:07 AM

Ok, please clarify this for me. I already have Comcast digital cable. I've read that the Samsung doesn't "do" analog cable, but will it handle a digital cable feed AND the clear QAM HD channels? I mean, will it scan and give me all of my current chnnels, minus the encrypted ones?:confused:

No. In most cases QAM = local ch's, shopping ch's, music ch's
That's it. Varies by provioder, region, area.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14278527&postcount=2998

hawkfan

11-10-08, 07:31 AM

No. In most cases QAM = local ch's, shopping ch's, music ch's
That's it. Varies by provioder, region, area.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14278527&postcount=2998

Thanks for the link. I've done numerous searches on this thing and never found the answer to my question. That link spells it out perfectly. I guess no tuner for me then.:(

suki84

11-14-08, 11:13 AM

I've had my H260F for over a year, and now I have two low numbered local channels freezing every few minutes. I'm using QAM thru Comcast - Savannah, Ga. This has never happened until two weeks ago, the screen freezes for a couple of seconds while audio still progresses, which is weird. Is there anything I could do to fix this - I've already done a channel scan again, and unplugged it. Can anyone help me?

Whidbey

11-14-08, 11:41 AM

Rammitinski

11-14-08, 07:13 PM

Mine started doing that too after about a year, on channel 3. Seemed like the picture had a little more general fuzz and noise in it than it did in the beginning, also. That's why I stopped using it.

All of my other tuners, of various generations, have no such problem with that channel.

timinky

11-20-08, 09:24 AM

It may not be your receiver. It sounds like a weak signal, so it could be the provider's fault. I would call Comcast and have them check your line.
Earlier post may have answered question. Using the 260 for a few months now with no
trouble. Use it as a QAM tuner connected to Samsung HDTV w/o built in QAM tuner.
Get all the local HD channels well. But in the last couple of days signal has been experiencing intermittent break up. Quite annoying. Would a in-line signal booster solve this. I know Motorola makes one. I've seen advertised for about $40. Another thing, and this may sound foolish, but could the sudden drop to freezing temperatures affect signal strength? Seems like this started happening at the onset of this cold spell that fell upon the Ohio Valley.

toby10

11-20-08, 11:33 AM

Earlier post may have answered question. Using the 260 for a few months now with no
trouble. Use it as a QAM tuner connected to Samsung HDTV w/o built in QAM tuner.
Get all the local HD channels well. But in the last couple of days signal has been experiencing intermittent break up. Quite annoying. Would a in-line signal booster solve this. I know Motorola makes one. I've seen advertised for about $40. Another thing, and this may sound foolish, but could the sudden drop to freezing temperatures affect signal strength? Seems like this started happening at the onset of this cold spell that fell upon the Ohio Valley.

Signal issue could be any number of things. I doubt a signal booster will help as you may well just be "boosting" a bad signal. I'd call your cable co ask them to check your line.

Freezing isn't usually an issue but who knows. May have moisture somewhere (usually at the street box) that can cause signal issues. But this is usually noticeable during a heavy rain.

I'm on WOW cable in Cleveland OH and they are experiencing a lot of issues with the locals. I think they are updating equipment for SDV and it's not playing well with their existing equipment.

DaMeloOne

11-21-08, 06:01 PM

krholmberg

11-21-08, 06:49 PM

When I had this tuner, my TV's built in QAM did a better job picking up stations. Funny. Have you used a tuner over the last 6 months (hard to tell from your post)? If not, it's more likely that the cable company is scrambling more stations as more people are getting TV's with built in QAM tuners and are actually using them.

toby10

11-22-08, 06:36 AM

Do all of the newer tv qam tuners have the same power as the DTBH260F? Where it can find alot of digital channels even though most are encrypted. Or is just that the cable companies are scrambling more channels so that the newer tvs can only get the clear qam.

i had a DTBH260F 6 months ago and it picked up nearly 400 digital channels about 70% where scrambled all the time. But some of those included the on demand. I just got a new 32lg30 tv and it only pick up about 78 digital channels which about 30 of them are viewable. Should i swap for a samsung tv maybe it has a better qam tuner?

I guess the real question is: "how many un-scrambled digital ch's did each tuner find"? If the results of un-scrambled ch's is equal on both tuners then it doesn't really matter.

Some of the newer QAM tuners are a bit smarter in that they don't bother showing you all 400 ch's in the results, but only show the un-scrambled ch's that can actually be tuned in. Unfortunately, the H260f is a four year old design and isn't that smart. :p

DaMeloOne

11-22-08, 07:17 AM

toby10

11-22-08, 08:03 AM

i already said how many each found and this tv does delete the scrambled channels but it only picked up 78 to begin with compared to the 400 with the DTBH260F. Like when i had the box 6 months ago it picked up the 50 something music playing channels, this tv only picks up 1.

Yes, you said how many total ch's each tuner found. What you didn't say is how many un-scrambled ch's the H260f tuned in. ;)

It is possible you may find the missing music ch's on subsequent QAM scans. Then again, maybe not. Krholmberg may be right that the cable co's are going to reduce the true "clear QAM" ch's to the absolute minimum required by law due to more and more QAM tuners hitting the streets. They may also start moving the QAM ch's around more often as well, just to piss off the QAM customers. :p

jjeff

11-22-08, 10:21 AM

Krholmberg may be right that the cable co's are going to reduce the true "clear QAM" ch's to the absolute minimum required by law due to more and more QAM tuners hitting the streets. They may also start moving the QAM ch's around more often as well, just to piss off the QAM customers. :p

I think both of those statements are 100% correct. In my area both are happening:(

DaMeloOne

11-22-08, 10:50 AM

Yes, you said how many total ch's each tuner found. What you didn't say is how many un-scrambled ch's the H260f tuned in. ;)

I also said that 30 of the 78 digital channels are viewable on new tv i got those would be the unscrambled. And when i had DTBH260F 70% percent of the 400 it found where scrambled so that mean 30% where in the clear.:D I was just wondering if any of yall had tvs with qam tuner and how many digital station you pick up overall vs the DTBH260F. Cause finding 400digital 6months ago vs only 78 now is quite a dropoff. But then again the Cable companies could be rescrambling them so they wont get picked up

toby10

11-22-08, 11:34 AM

I also said that 30 of the 78 digital channels are viewable on new tv i got those would be the unscrambled. And when i had DTBH260F 70% percent of the 400 it found where scrambled so that mean 30% where in the clear.:D I was just wondering if any of yall had tvs with qam tuner and how many digital station you pick up overall vs the DTBH260F. Cause finding 400digital 6months ago vs only 78 now is quite a dropoff. But then again the Cable companies could be rescrambling them so they wont get picked up

Yes, but it wasn't important enuff for me to get out my calculator. :D

Nor is your "guesstimate" accurate enuff for people to weigh in on your query.
I was attempting to point out that the actual "watchable" ch's may be the same or very similar regardless of which tuner you are using. One tuner shows 400 ch's the other shows 78 ch's, but if both result in the same actual number of "watchable" ch's then it matters little.

Your 400+ ch's are still there, but your newer/smarter QAM tuner is probably filtering out most of the encrypted ch's.

I suspect the main difference you are attempting to compare in available QAM ch's is more to do with the six month period of time than the difference in QAM tuners. I'd bet if you compared those two QAM tuners then or now the resulting watchable ch's would be identical or very close. ;)

toby10

11-22-08, 11:42 AM

I think both of those statements are 100% correct. In my area both are happening:(

Yup, and who can blame them?
I think anyone counting on QAM to deliver anything beyond the locals is going to be very disappointed in the very near future. ;)

Rammitinski

11-22-08, 03:29 PM

And if you're using a Funai QAM tuner, then you're likely to be especially disappointed.

toby10

11-22-08, 05:16 PM

And if you're using a Funai QAM tuner, then you're likely to be especially disappointed.

Could you elaborate?

jjeff

11-22-08, 07:54 PM

They have issues of their own, such as losing channels which require a channel rescan. It varies unit to unit. Sometimes people are forced to buy several to get one that works.

paris_tn

11-22-08, 08:55 PM

I have had my Samsung 260f for a couple weeks or more now and really like it. Two nights ago i did a scan and picked up a few channels i wasn't sure where it was. It was not comming in good(way off), so i moved the antenna real fast, right after ch scan. I noticed another ch came in and lost the other and was like wow, where did the other go and why did the Samsung lose it.

I have no complaints with the tuner. I am deep, deep fringe and it holds stations good for me out to 75 miles. Late nights i can usually get 85 to 125 miles. This is digital as i have no analog tuner. If weather is differ or bad conditions, then i can't go over the 75 miles to good. One night i watched kdnl abc 30 out of St Louis. This was skip as it was 244 miles away and i did have some fade and drop outs but it would hold mostly at 4 bars. I have noticed in two rains, with leaves on the trees, that this was bad for me and i couldn't go out over 75 miles. I have trees all around me and need to be up 30 more ft. As leaves fall, stations are really opening up.

Things i wish for if they make a newer model, is a one push button showing signal strength, two inputs, one for antenna and one for cable. Like any tuner, as sensitive as they can get it. I really like mine.

toby10

11-23-08, 06:31 AM

They have issues of their own, such as losing channels which require a channel rescan. It varies unit to unit. Sometimes people are forced to buy several to get one that works.

Wow. Are these HTPC tuners? Or STB tuners?

toby10

11-23-08, 06:39 AM

........... Things i wish for if they make a newer model, is a one push button showing signal strength, two inputs, one for antenna and one for cable. Like any tuner, as sensitive as they can get it. I really like mine.

You couldn't get a bigger antenna?? :D How tall is that tower?

I think those two features (signal strength and additional RF input) would be on everyone's wish list. ;)

jjeff

11-23-08, 10:02 AM

Toby10, Funai is the parent company for many of the SD DVDR brands(Magnavox, Philips, Sylvania, etc.). They're very reasonably priced (cheap) but QC isn't usually the best. They really have nothing to due with this forum since they're all SD only. I think Ramm was just going off the word "disappointed" that you used;)
Many people buying a Funai DVDR expecting to get reliable QAM reception get "disappointed":D

Whidbey

11-23-08, 10:18 AM

Many people buying a Funai DVDR expecting to get reliable QAM reception get "disappointed":D

How true. A friend of mine with cable and a Magnavox DVDr w/hdd and digital tuner gets zilch when he scans cable for digital signals, even though it has a QAM tuner.

timinky

11-29-08, 01:41 PM

Since I posted original note about having QAM signal issues: I have
replaced 4 way splitter at cable entry point, replaced a couple of aged RG6/59 connectors, also slipped a couple of rubber boots on two of the cable lines, including the one that feeds the 260F. All that cleaned things up a bit,
but, and I know this sounds crazy, but at night when trying to view QAM channels from via Insight cable pipe, I still get picture freeze, breakup, and at times complete drop out. Just weird this is only happening in evening. I do have the cable from wall running through a surge protector prior to split to TV and 260F. Seems that if this was issue, feed would be dicey all the time. Right now HD sports is coming down pipe with no problems, it's 1:30pm EST. Called Insight said they would send a guy to check drop point
signal strength, of course rep then proceeded to try and up sell me to the HD/DVR receiver and the upcoming Digital 4.0 they are about to unveil.

So question begs, why only at night poor signal strength? I think it's a diabolical plot by Insight to corrupt signal at night to get me aggravated
and then make call and upgrade my cable service. Who knows?

Signal issue could be any number of things. I doubt a signal booster will help as you may well just be "boosting" a bad signal. I'd call your cable co ask them to check your line.

Freezing isn't usually an issue but who knows. May have moisture somewhere (usually at the street box) that can cause signal issues. But this is usually noticeable during a heavy rain.

I'm on WOW cable in Cleveland OH and they are experiencing a lot of issues with the locals. I think they are updating equipment for SDV and it's not playing well with their existing equipment.

toby10

11-29-08, 02:07 PM

Since I posted original note about having QAM signal issues: I have
replaced 4 way splitter at cable entry point, replaced a couple of aged RG6/59 connectors, also slipped a couple of rubber boots on two of the cable lines, including the one that feeds the 260F. All that cleaned things up a bit,
but, and I know this sounds crazy, but at night when trying to view QAM channels from via Insight cable pipe, I still get picture freeze, breakup, and at times complete drop out. Just weird this is only happening in evening. I do have the cable from wall running through a surge protector prior to split to TV and 260F. Seems that if this was issue, feed would be dicey all the time. Right now HD sports is coming down pipe with no problems, it's 1:30pm EST. Called Insight said they would send a guy to check drop point
signal strength, of course rep then proceeded to try and up sell me to the HD/DVR receiver and the upcoming Digital 4.0 they are about to unveil.

So question begs, why only at night poor signal strength? I think it's a diabolical plot by Insight to corrupt signal at night to get me aggravated
and then make call and upgrade my cable service. Who knows?

Complete guess here, but I suppose it could be some odd signal issue that becomes (more) apparent when the demand on the entire cable system is at it's peak (i.e. prime time viewing). Also, someone on your block may have some sort of illegal converter box or over amplified setup that is feeding garbage and interference to others on that line.

Best to have cable co. do a complete line check.

Budget_HT

11-29-08, 02:51 PM

... I do have the cable from wall running through a surge protector prior to split to TV and 260F. Seems that if this was issue, feed would be dicey all the time...

Feeding coax through a surge protector is a well-known source of problems with reception. If I were you, I would take the surge protector completely out of the RF signal path (coax line). I know because I had symptoms similar to yours and eliminating the surge protector solved my erratic reception problems.

If removing the surge protector does not solve the problem, I would have the cable company come out to verify that the signal level and slope (linear frequency response) are within their working limits for delivery to a residence.

I would also consider an amplified splitter if none of the above has solved the problem completely.

Good luck! This problem can be solved!

Big Lag

12-01-08, 06:42 PM

I am having a problem with my tuner. I can no longer receive channel 5. When the unit was new I received channel 5 fine. Then one day it just did not come in.

I was playing with it yesterday. If I plug the coax directly into the TV I get channel 5 with no problems. The signal strength is fine (85% of full scale), according to the signal strength meter built into the TV.

When I plug the coax back into the tuner I cannot get channel 5. If I force the tuner onto channel 5, it sends a signal to the TV to display an error message in a blue box containing the message, "weak or nonexistant signal" (or some such wording).

What's up? Do I have a defective unit?

bcarlsen

12-01-08, 07:01 PM

paris_tn

12-01-08, 08:19 PM

You couldn't get a bigger antenna?? :D How tall is that tower?

I think those two features (signal strength and additional RF input) would be on everyone's wish list. ;)

The tower is 50 ft and the antennas are up about 55 ft. If the weather will warm up a lil, i can get the vhf antenna up also. I have no vhf up now.

Big Lag

12-02-08, 01:56 AM

Did you rescan?

I rescanned.

I also went into the channel setup and tried to manually add channel 5. It let me add it but it tells me "there is no signal or the signal is weak" (which it is not).

tpaxadpom

12-02-08, 04:34 PM

bcarlsen

12-02-08, 05:27 PM

I rescanned.

I also went into the channel setup and tried to manually add channel 5. It let me add it but it tells me "there is no signal or the signal is weak" (which it is not).

Try adding the real channel number instead of the virtual channel. tvfool.com provides the channel numbers if you need them.

tpaxadpom

12-03-08, 12:38 PM

Try adding the real channel number instead of the virtual channel. tvfool.com provides the channel numbers if you need them.
+1

260 will map the channel after it's been saved in channel setup menu. Though I don't see why the autoscan wouldn't detect it in the first place.

Big Lag

12-03-08, 03:30 PM

+1

260 will map the channel after it's been saved in channel setup menu. Though I don't see why the autoscan wouldn't detect it in the first place.

Honestly, I have no idea what you mean by "real channel number". Still, as the other poster said, why wouldn't it find it during a scan and why wouldn't it allow me to manually add it (using its non-real number, channel 5)?

bcarlsen

12-03-08, 04:34 PM

Honestly, I have no idea what you mean by "real channel number". Still, as the other poster said, why wouldn't it find it during a scan and why wouldn't it allow me to manually add it (using its non-real number, channel 5)?

I don't know why it wouldn't find it during a rescan. Mine has occasionally "Lost" channels before and a rescan always fixed it. However, if you are going to manually add it, you need to use the real channel, meaning the actual RF frequency that is being used. In the digital age, the channel you see, such as 6.1 may actually be broadcast on channel 26 for example. It would have been impossible for the station to simultaneously broadcast the old analog channel 6 and the new digital channel 6.1 at the same frequency.

Scooper

12-03-08, 04:38 PM

Honestly, I have no idea what you mean by "real channel number". Still, as the other poster said, why wouldn't it find it during a scan and why wouldn't it allow me to manually add it (using its non-real number, channel 5)?

Mostly because unles it successfully scanned it - it doesn't "know" what RF channel it has to tune to.

What zipcode are you in ? from there we can help you.

Big Lag

12-03-08, 04:49 PM

Scooper

12-03-08, 05:06 PM

Thanks for all the help, guys.

I'm in the Los Angeles basin - 90278 Redondo Beach area.

Remember also, the TV's tuner found channel 5 every time and finds it as a strong signal. Something to think about, eh? I believe this implies the 260 is defective.

Thanks, again.

KTLA - real RF channel 31, virtual 5.1 (results found from www.tvfool.com using provided zipcode)

So, to "find" it manually, you would use "31" in the Samsung.

Doesn't mean the Samsung is defective - as suggested above - you might contact station engineering about it, also check the LA thread. Maybe others have the same problem.

Big Lag

12-03-08, 08:58 PM

KTLA - real RF channel 31, virtual 5.1 (results found from www.tvfool.com using provided zipcode)

So, to "find" it manually, you would use "31" in the Samsung.

Doesn't mean the Samsung is defective - as suggested above - you might contact station engineering about it, also check the LA thread. Maybe others have the same problem.

I logged this info in my brain. If I find time while working on the rest of the system I will test this it out. As of now, I have the unit disconnected and stored it away. It is likely headed for the trash can.

When I add and delete stations I can use either the automated scan or use the manual channel set up function. Both of these use the virtual channel numbers as the interface. I am puzzled about where I would go to input the number "31".

I still don't like this unit that much. It has several other bugs described above - drops and adds channels at its own volition; HDMI output does not synch with AV receiver, video just drops off line during viewing requiring power cycling to restore video,... This box and the SONY receiver it was hooked to are the worst electronics units I have ever purchased. Don't even mention the Logitech 1000 remote I sent back for a refund a year ago. I cannot describe to you the frustration it has caused my wife and I. She is about to divorce me because of this unit's poor performance (jk). Since I have removed this unit our viewing lives are better - MUCH!

bcarlsen

12-03-08, 09:31 PM

The box can be a little quirky. It's definitely not for everyone. But the trash can?!! ebay it!

mlmahon

12-03-08, 09:42 PM

When I add and delete stations I can use either the automated scan or use the manual channel set up function. Both of these use the virtual channel numbers as the interface. I am puzzled about where I would go to input the number "31".!

While watching any other channel, simply tune to channel 31 by pushing the 3 and the 1 buttons on the remote. If the receiver picks up KTLA-DT it will automatically remap it to channel 5-1 and add it to your channel list.

I know your'e frustrated, but it sounds like you are trying to make this much more complicated than it actually is. Good Luck..:)

Scooper

12-03-08, 10:20 PM

The box can be a little quirky. It's definitely not for everyone. But the trash can?!! ebay it!

+1 - include the remote and list it on Ebay - you wouldn't have any trouble selling it.

toby10

12-04-08, 06:29 AM

.....I still don't like this unit that much. It has several other bugs described above - drops and adds channels at its own volition; HDMI output does not synch with AV receiver, video just drops off line during viewing requiring power cycling to restore video,... This box and the SONY receiver it was hooked to are the worst electronics units I have ever purchased. Don't even mention the Logitech 1000 remote I sent back for a refund a year ago. I cannot describe to you the frustration it has caused my wife and I. She is about to divorce me because of this unit's poor performance (jk). Since I have removed this unit our viewing lives are better - MUCH!

I think most of your troubles stem from the HDMI output (but not related to the missing ch). The H260f's HDMI out is a known trouble spot.
Like you when I was using it's HDMI to my AVR I had:
- handshake issues
- picture would go "pink"
- audio & video drops

I knew I was adding another HDMI device to my AVR down the road (which I since have) and needed the H260f's HDMI slot to do so. So I went component video and analog audio from the H260f direct to the TV and I've not had a SINGLE problem since. Seriously, not even a hiccup. :cool:

Any chance you could try component to the AVR? Or, as I did, component video direct to TV with optical to AVR? Analog audio (L-R) to TV could be an option if you want to watch local TV without powering up your 900 watt AVR. ;)

The optical out for DD goes to my AVR for the few instances I want surround. Mostly it's sitcoms and local news so I just use the TV speakers.

The H260f's HDMI output is *very* weak, lacking "umph". In addition to the above issues using a 3' HDMI cable to the AVR, going direct to the TV over a 50' HDMI cable it would just flash video ON and OFF. Using the same 50' HDMI cable from my AVR and direct from any of the other three HDMI devices I have, not a single problem.

I'm not making excuses for Samsung, they surely released a buggy box especially on the HDMI end, but using component video it has been a rock solid performer for almost two years. :)

Big Lag

12-04-08, 12:23 PM

Ken H

12-04-08, 12:26 PM

I tried using component video. Whenever you change the volume (at all), the screen goes blank and the audio stops. About 15 seconds (I'm not kidding), they both come back at the new volume setting. Imagine bumping the volume up/down by 1 dB and losing your show for 15 seconds.

Unfortunately, it sounds like you got a bad box.

toby10

12-04-08, 05:21 PM

I purchased the tuner because of its HDMI output If I wanted component video I could have used the TV tuner and there'd have been no need to buy this unit.

I tried using component video. Whenever you change the volume (at all), the screen goes blank and the audio stops. About 15 seconds, they both come back at the new volume setting. Imagine bumping the volume up/down by 1 dB and losing your show for 15 seconds. I'm not kidding and not exaggerating (I timed it).

This entire foray into home theater has largely been a disaster. The TV I bought is great. SONY's PS3 works beautifully as a Bluray player. All the other electronic goodies (like this tuner) have been a real PITA. I'd say the state of affairs in home theater electronics is piss poor. <-- this is my official feedback to the manufacturers. Fix this or consumer acceptance will be limited.

Yeah, sure sounds like you got a bad unit. No way Component should be acting like that. That sucks. :(

Though I don't follow this statement:
"I purchased the tuner because of its HDMI output If I wanted component video I could have used the TV tuner and there'd have been no need to buy this unit."

Unless you mean for the convenience factor of running one cable for both Audio & Video. The same PQ and SQ can be achieved through simple Component video and Digital Audio (coax or optical) cables.

And I agree with you on the state of consumer electronics today. :(

Big Lag

12-04-08, 09:20 PM

Unless you mean for the convenience factor of running one cable for both Audio & Video. The same PQ and SQ can be achieved through simple Component video and Digital Audio (coax or optical) cables.

Convenience, aesthetics, whatever,... the idea was to have only one cable running across the wall from the AV receiver to the TV, not three video cable plus 2 more for audio in addition to the HDMI cable.

I disagree about image quality. When I hooked up the tuner via its component video outputs, there was a noticeable reduction in picture quality. It wasn't too bad but I noticed it.

What I am finding is that my entire plan for high definition TV and a home theater has fallen apart. This is not because I had a bad design or a bad plan but because the various pieces of hardware do not live up to their promised performance. Specifically, this SAMSUNG tuner, the SONY AV receiver (DA-5300ES), the universal remote (Logitech Harmony 1000), even the PS3 (because it uses an entirely different remote control technology than the SONY AVR - Bluray versus IR).

If I could get my money back on these items, I would. I would keep the PS3, as it has performed admirably as a Bluray disk player. I'd keep the Orb Audio speakers and the SHARP LC-52D92U TV.

mlmahon

12-04-08, 09:42 PM

Unfortunately, it sounds like you got a bad box.
I agree. Any chance for warranty repair or replacement?

toby10

12-05-08, 06:59 AM

Convenience, aesthetics, whatever,... the idea was to have only one cable running across the wall from the AV receiver to the TV, not three video cable plus 2 more for audio in addition to the HDMI cable.

I disagree about image quality. When I hooked up the tuner via its component video outputs, there was a noticeable reduction in picture quality. It wasn't too bad but I noticed it.

What I am finding is that my entire plan for high definition TV and a home theater has fallen apart. This is not because I had a bad design or a bad plan but because the various pieces of hardware do not live up to their promised performance. Specifically, this SAMSUNG tuner, the SONY AV receiver (DA-5300ES), the universal remote (Logitech Harmony 1000), even the PS3 (because it uses an entirely different remote control technology than the SONY AVR - Bluray versus IR).

If I could get my money back on these items, I would. I would keep the PS3, as it has performed admirably as a Bluray disk player. I'd keep the Orb Audio speakers and the SHARP LC-52D92U TV.

I feel your pain, truly. :(

Your bad tuner may be to blame for seeing a difference in PQ between Component and HDMI. HD TV's need to be calibrated per input. But, I assure you, with properly functioning equipment and proper calibration the PQ is identical. ;) Professional installers, also having the same HDMI issues (handshaking, incompatibilities, etc..) have chosen Component over HDMI for years. They know the PQ is identical but lacks the technical issues and hiccups associated with HDMI.

But I do understand the convenience factor with HDMI. I run both HDMI and Component to the TV as I often have no need to have a 980 watt AVR running to watch basic source material.

You got caught between technologies with IR and BT, same here. BT is the future of remotes and IR will slowly disappear. More and more consumer devices are incorporating BT, even the low end AVR's on the market.

bcarlsen

12-05-08, 08:03 AM

Big Lag

12-05-08, 03:27 PM

I think there is a lesson to be learned here about who you buy your electronics from. It is tempting to go with the cheapest online retailer, but it is very difficult to judge how well a product will perform based on written reviews. There is something to be said for buying from a place that has a good return policy, even if it is a little more expensive.

I think even the most generous return policy would have expired long before I finally got the system up and running and debugged sufficiently to understand which component was misbehaving and why. Perhaps if they had a 1 year return or some such that would be different but which retailer does that?

Basically, I think of this as being self-insured. It is difficult to justify paying double for something from a retailer that has no better return policy than a generic online dealer. I do tend to stay away from the bargain basement dealers, however, for some items, I have had good success buying from them.

The place you REALLY have to be careful of is EBAY. On ebay, you could be buying a unit that is defective, has passed thru three people trying to unload a defective unit because it was a "grey market" item whose warranty the manufacturer will not honor and it cannot be returned to the seller.

My gear was purchased from a variety of sources. I bought the TV from a local retailer specifically because of the return policy and practicality of actually returning the unit in the event that was necessary. I regret buying the AV receiver via ebay because I cannot send it back now that it's a year old. SONY honored the warranty (advance exchange program) but this SONY model just sucks (DA-5300ES). It is a dog. It has taken a year to realize that and now it is too late.

I agree about reading online reviews, especially of consumer electronics. Be very wary - retailers write fictious reviews using pseudonyms, professional reviewers are paid to write reviews, periodiclas have to cow-tow to the advertisers, ...

northbear

01-07-09, 01:41 PM

WhiteWhiskers

01-07-09, 02:11 PM

I purchased the tuner because of its HDMI output If I wanted component video I could have used the TV tuner and there'd have been no need to buy this unit....Whenever you change the volume (at all), the screen goes blank and the audio stops...
I don't understand your need of buying this box either. If your TV has a digital tuner, why would you think you'd get better video from an external tuner box? And first you say you bought the Samsung because it has HDMI output, why do you then switch gears and say you connected it up via the component outputs? As for changing the volume, you set the volume level of the Samsung box to 100% max and don't touch it again. If you want to adjust the volume out of your TV, you adjust the TV's volume control, not the Samsung box.

There's also a switch in the back that needs to be adjusted depending on whether you use the HDMI or component video output. It's called DTV Out Select.

toby10

01-07-09, 04:50 PM

toby10

01-07-09, 05:12 PM

I think even the most generous return policy would have expired long before I finally got the system up and running and debugged sufficiently to understand which component was misbehaving and why. Perhaps if they had a 1 year return or some such that would be different but which retailer does that?........

Unfortunately, I think this was part of your overall dilemma, in that you bought a number of devices all at once and then tried to hook them all up long after a normal return period. This was then compounded by the fact that you were unfamiliar with this newer technology.

I have fourteen AV devices in my main AV rack (not including my TV) and I added each as an individual unit to avoid the very issues you are having (incompatibilities, glitches, handshake issues, etc...). Until I am familiar with the most recent addition and comfortable with it's performance and features, then I add a new component as needed. And, yeah, that involved a couple of hiccups and returns as well. :p Same thing with my other AV devices throughout the house, and they all play nice together. ;)

Again, I agree with you on how poorly the CE industry has implemented such new features like HDMI with all of it's issues. But if you added such devices, slowly, you could have returned each and every one of those components that was not to your liking including the H260f. :(

bcarlsen

01-07-09, 05:24 PM

I did a search of this thread and had two questions I could not find answers to.

Are the color buttons **needed** to navigate the guide? I have a universal remote which does not have the color buttons and was wondering if you can navigate simply with the arrow buttons. Otherwise it may be a pain with my universal remote.

Second, is there a way to setup to have closed caption when muting?

Thanks!

I don't have mine setup right now, but the user manual says you can use the guide without using the color buttons:

1 Press the MENU button on your remote control.
2 Use the </> buttons to select the
Guide menu and press the ENTER
button. Use the ^/V buttons
to select Go to Full Guide and press
the ENTER button. The Full
Guide screen will appear. You may
also go to this screen directly by
using the GUIDE button. Once in this
screen, you can navigate using the
buttons on your remote control.

The manual seems to say that captions are either on or off. There's no "on with mute" setting.

northbear

01-07-09, 05:41 PM

bcarlsen and toby 10.

Thanks for the help!

Whidbey

01-07-09, 08:14 PM

Second, is there a way to setup to have closed caption when muting?

Depending on how sophisticated your universal remote is, you may be able to create a macro to do that, and you may even be able to assign it to the mute button.

pcdo

01-10-09, 01:33 PM

bcarlsen

01-10-09, 01:49 PM

I have a Panasonic pro plasma without internal tuner so I bought this tuner hoping to get some OTA HDTV. Thus far I am pretty pleased. The picture looks great. I'm connected to the box via HDMI to my Denon 889 AVR which connects to my plasma via HDMI without any hiccups at all. My only complaint is the aspect ratio problem. It seems if you have a 16:9 HDTV then choose "full" will automatically stretch your 4:3 content. When choosing "pillar box" it'll automatically squeeze your 16:9 content. It seems I can't preserve the original aspect ratios for both widescreen and fullscreen. I can only pick one or the other, so I've basically picked to stick with full and deal with the stretch. Anyone find a way around this? Thanks.

This has never been an issue for me. I use this box for watching HD channels on a projector. All of the HD channels I get put out a widescreen image - even when those channels show SD programming, they put the black bars on the side and upscale it to HD. I guess if I wanted to watch a 480i channel and I wanted the aspect ratio to be correct, I would change the aspect ratio on the projector (which is just a click of a button - no menus to go through).

pcdo

01-10-09, 02:09 PM

This has never been an issue for me. I use this box for watching HD channels on a projector. All of the HD channels I get put out a widescreen image - even when those channels show SD programming, they put the black bars on the side and upscale it to HD. I guess if I wanted to watch a 480i channel and I wanted the aspect ratio to be correct, I would change the aspect ratio on the projector (which is just a click of a button - no menus to go through).

I think the true HD channels place black bars on the side so it's in a sense a 16:9 full picture with black bars placed in. A true SD channel with 4:3 ratio will get stretched. I just wish there was a way to leave the aspect ratio in its original form. Seems like this isn't the case.

Scooper

01-10-09, 02:48 PM

The Samsung just doesn't have the Automatic Frame Description that some newer tuners do. Your only real recourse is to flip through the aspect button for each channel as you tune to it.

Using the Echostar DTVPAL DVR gives you a tuner at least as good, with DVR AND it can automatically adjust each channel to the aspect that the station is sending out.

toby10

01-11-09, 06:09 AM

This has never been an issue for me. I use this box for watching HD channels on a projector. All of the HD channels I get put out a widescreen image - even when those channels show SD programming, they put the black bars on the side and upscale it to HD. I guess if I wanted to watch a 480i channel and I wanted the aspect ratio to be correct, I would change the aspect ratio on the projector (which is just a click of a button - no menus to go through).

Me too, never been an issue. I output to a commercial plasma monitor like the OP. H260f is set to FULL and never touched it since.

I see absolutely no stretching or squeezing whatsoever. I will simply toggle my monitors aspect as needed between Anamorphic and Stadium (a *very* accurate stretch/justify)

angryht

01-26-09, 09:32 AM

I just picked up one of these tuners and I am trying to get the QAM tuner to work. I have removed everything in the signal path, e.g. extra splitters, power strip..., and I have done all three types of scans for cable and have had no luck at all. I even disconnected the cable that I have connected to a TV that is receiving QAM without a problem, did the scan(s) and got nothing. The only thing I can think of is that the QAM signals are somehow encrypted such that the Samsung tuner will not detect them. Could that be the case?

jtbell

01-26-09, 03:46 PM

Maybe. Try asking in the Omaha thread in the "Local HDTV Info & Reception" forum here, to see if anyone there knows about clear QAM channels (or lack of them) on your cable provider.

angryht

01-26-09, 04:59 PM

Maybe. Try asking in the Omaha thread in the "Local HDTV Info & Reception" forum here, to see if anyone there knows about clear QAM channels (or lack of them) on your cable provider.Thanks, jt, I'll try there.

toby10

01-26-09, 05:49 PM

angryht

01-26-09, 07:20 PM

Another possibility is your cable co's QAM ch's are in analog. The H260f will only tune in digital ch's via QAM or OTA. Anything in analog will not be seen by the H260f.
Thanks, Toby I've posted your question the Omaha thread.here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15658771#post15658771).

zamar

01-28-09, 01:56 AM

The H260f will only tune in digital ch's via QAM or OTA. Anything in analog will not be seen by the H260f.I have an OTA outdoor antenna and cable with some Analog (and I assume some Clear QAM) Channels seen without subscription. I don't have a Cable Box at the moment. How I can connect both coax cables to a single coax Input of H260F? Will I be able to switch by H260F's Remote between Digital OTA and QAM Channels? Can the box scan and remember all channels from both these cables?

toby10

01-28-09, 06:13 AM

I have an OTA outdoor antenna and cable with some Analog (and I assume some Clear QAM) Channels seen without subscription. I don't have a Cable Box at the moment. How I can connect both coax cables to a single coax Input of H260F? Will I be able to switch by H260F's Remote between Digital OTA and QAM Channels? Can the box scan and remember all channels from both these cables?

- To use both cable and OTA input you must use an A/B switch, a simple splitter will cause interference
- Analog cable ch's will be passed through (not tuned) on your H260f, but then your TV must have a cable tuner to get analog ch's
- Yes, you switch via the remote between CBL and OTA tuning
- Yes, it will remember all tuned ch's per input (CBL/OTA)

Remember you will only get UNENCRYPTED QAM ch's via cable, this box is NOT a replacement for a cable STB converter. ;)

zamar

01-28-09, 11:49 AM

You switch via the remote between CBL and OTA tuningThanks. Is that what "configurable (http://www.sem.samsung.com/cms/ifweb/en/products/productOverview.jsp?pcode=D030&pname=Americas/Korea%20(VSB/POD)&loca=a&locag=3&locam=Tuners&navi=overview&pimage=N&tmp02=app)" means: the tuner mode is selectable by user via Remote without firmware change or factory preset? Which model of Samsung VSB-NIM is used in 260? Will it tune to Clear QAM HD, or only to SD digital cable channels?

Also, you say, both QAM and OTA channel sets will be remembered simultaneously and easily switchable. Why then 260 can't remember all channel sets, obtained from different OTA antenna orientation angles? Is there a way to restore a channel set from previous angle without rescanning (may be from a USB Stick or PC, etc.)?

Can you recommend a cheap Remote controlled A/B Switch? Can it be controlled by the same Samsung Remote (how: via 260 or directly)? Would a Combiner or single Diplexer like this (http://www.digiwavetechnologies.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=136&MMN_position=230:5) (but for Cable & OTA signal combo) right before H260F also interfere with signal quality? Or Diplexers must be used only in pairs, or can't be used to combine Cable with OTA?

Can signals from 2 identical OTA Antennas, set at different angles, be combined in a Combiner or single Diplexer? Will Samsung 260 tune and remember all the channels from such combined signal?

Also, are Terminators required for each unused coax Splitter port, or just plastic Caps? Which Splitter and Terminator makes / models are recommended for OTA and Cable? Will the same models be good for both signal types (in separate OTA and Cable TV Coax runs)?

Sorry for asking so many questions, but proper H260F setup has many aspects.

jtbell

01-28-09, 01:03 PM

Why then 260 can't remember all channel sets, obtained from different OTA antenna orientation angles?

It is true that a complete channel scan erases the previously existing channel set, so you cannot find all your channels by doing repeated scans at different angles. However, you can add channels individually, by entering the RF channel number (not the virtual channel number).

If you enter '8', for example, and the 260 doesn't already know about a virtual channel 8, it scans RF channel 8. If it finds a usable signal on that channel, it picks up the virtual channel number (which in my case happens to be 25), and adds it to your channel list.

So you can do a full scan at one angle, then add channels individually at other angles. This is less convenient than having an "update scan" feature, but it's better than nothing.

You do sometimes have to be careful about the sequence in which you add channels. For example, I also have a virtual channel 33 on RF channel 25. If virtual 25 / RF 8 is already in my channel list, I can't add RF 25 because when I enter '25' the 260 takes me to virtual 25. So I have to make sure to add RF 25 before RF 8.

toby10

01-28-09, 04:31 PM

.............
Can you recommend a cheap Remote controlled A/B Switch? Can it be controlled by the same Samsung Remote (how: via 260 or directly)? Would a Combiner or single Diplexer like this (http://www.digiwavetechnologies.com/index.php?module=pagemaster&PAGE_user_op=view_page&PAGE_id=136&MMN_position=230:5) (but for Cable & OTA signal combo) right before H260F also interfere with signal quality? Or Diplexers must be used only in pairs, or can't be used to combine Cable with OTA?

Can signals from 2 identical OTA Antennas, set at different angles, be combined in a Combiner or single Diplexer? Will Samsung 260 tune and remember all the channels from such combined signal?

Also, are Terminators required for each unused coax Splitter port, or just plastic Caps? Which Splitter and Terminator makes / models are recommended for OTA and Cable? Will the same models be good for both signal types (in separate OTA and Cable TV Coax runs)?

Sorry for asking so many questions, but proper H260F setup has many aspects.

- No, a true A/B switch must be used for OTA and QAM. Mine is a manual switch (I rarely ever bother with QAM). There may be a remote operated A/B RF switch out there somewhere, dunno.
- I dunno about using a combiner for two set top antennas. If you are going to that length then just get a decent outdoor multi-directional antenna. I wouldn't mess with multiple indoor antennas.