Just to be clear, and from his post I'm sure etrojan understands this - this is just a clarification for all forum readers - I'm suggesting having the Samsung OTA HD tuner and the RCA DVD recorder both hooked directly into a monitor with two HDMI ports or through an A/V receiver with HDMI switching capability.

You are correct, tadietz, this was crystal clear to me. The challenge I face, is that if I opt for the RCA DVD recorder as my analog cable tuner (and upconverter over HDMI), then the Samsung DBT-H260F may fall out of consideration, since I have only one HDMI port.

Leftover ports on the Sony LCD are SVGA and Component, and from my understanding SVGA would be better than Component, so I would prefer an HD Tuner with SVGA out.

At this point, I'm not ready to drop $500+ to upgrade my receiver to get one with HDMI switching.

Why buy just a tuner when you can get this.......http://www.pvrwire.com/2007/01/31/tivx-5010-p-hd-tv-recorder-odd-shaped-diskless-media-streamin/

Apparently has no QAM, but is the future of home HD recorders.

Hi,

I got my Samsung DTB-H260F last week. I ordered it through the CC online and they shipped it in a week (179.00).

I see that the picture quality is much better compared to my earlier Dish HD Receiver, especially the Local Public Television (KQED in SF Bay Area).

Initially I connected the Receiver to my LCD TV (720P) using Component Cables, but later switched to HDMI Cable. After couple of days I noticed that the Picture resolution goes to VGA mode with orange tinge when I turn off the TV and turn it on later with the Receiver Still on. When I power cycle the Receiver, every thing comes back to normal. I didn't see this issue when using the Component Cables.

I guess the Receiver is going to lo resolution mode when the TV is turned off and is never coming back up to the full 720P again when the TV is turned on because of the HDMI cabling.

Any pointers.

Thanx

RK

I tried to purchase for 2 weeks in the Boston area in December. I placed an order with **************.com on 1/2/07. It finally arrives tomorrow! There is definitely an issue with Samsung's current distribution of this product.

I tried to purchase for 2 weeks in the Boston area in December. I placed an order with **************.com on 1/2/07. It finally arrives tomorrow! There is definitely an issue with Samsung's current distribution of this product.

On the bright side, this is an AWESOME tuner. I'm just across the Charles in Cambridge and can tune in all 26 OTA stations using a 6ft RG59 coaxial cable and a 75ohm adapter--that's right, I'm not actually using an "antenna" (in the conventional sense). Never drops the signal--ever.

You are correct, tadietz, this was crystal clear to me. The challenge I face, is that if I opt for the RCA DVD recorder as my analog cable tuner (and upconverter over HDMI), then the Samsung DBT-H260F may fall out of consideration, since I have only one HDMI port.

Leftover ports on the Sony LCD are SVGA and Component, and from my understanding SVGA would be better than Component, so I would prefer an HD Tuner with SVGA out.

At this point, I'm not ready to drop $500+ to upgrade my receiver to get one with HDMI switching.

etrojan, don't count it out just yet. The DTB-H260F also has component output at the full 1080i the box is capable of tuning in as an alternative to the HDMI option. You need to set a switch on the back of the unit to choose either component or HDMI, in fact. I have used both and can't really see any difference on my set. The downside of component, of course, is that you need to use the optical audio out as well as the much thicker three strand component cable instead of the one slim HDMI cable which carries both audio and video. The s-video output is still active if you choose this option.

And, as to the receiver, if you ever do want a reasonably priced option with true HDMI processing (not just switching), check out the new JVC RX-D411 or RX-D412 units. Around $350 from a few web merchants and I got free shipping when I bought mine. it's pretty sweet. :)

Why buy just a tuner when you can get this.......http://www.pvrwire.com/2007/01/31/tivx-5010-p-hd-tv-recorder-odd-shaped-diskless-media-streamin/

Apparently has no QAM, but is the future of home HD recorders.


Here's another link: http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/01/30/dvicos-tivx-5010-p-hdtv-recorder-everything-but-the-disk/

This blows away the simple DVD recorder/Tuner option!!!

I received my DTB-H260F a couple of days ago. When I first hooked up the HDMI cable to my set I got no sound. My set is a new Westhinghouse LTV-19w6. I had picture but could not get audio. I am not sure what I did but the audio eventually started working.

The next day I decided to play with the PIP while the Mavs were playing. I changed the PIP sound to the TV instead of Main. When I switched back to Main sound, nothing. Turned off PIP, still no sound. Disconnected everything else from TV, DVD and VCR. Still nothing. Finally hooked up component cables from tuner to TV to get HD using the audio from the HD tuner.
That works fine except now I have to disconnect the audio cables from the tuner and hook them into the DVD player to get sound watching a movie. I have seen some discussions about people having issues with sound over HDMI. My cable is a new HDMI to DVI, which is the connection on my TV.
Any comments would be appreciated. I love HD but I am not impressed with some of the technology yet. Or maybe it is just my ignorance since I am new to this.

Are the Samsung DTB-H260F ATSC tuner's in stock at all locations now? Or are they still hard to come by?

-DonB2

I went to a local BB in North Dallas. They did not have any in stock. They said it is a special order item and will take 2-4 weeks for them to come in. I finally ordered one from J&R on the web. Paid $15 in shipping. Ordered on Sat. pm. and received it on Wed. at noon.

It did not sound like they were going to keep them in stock any longer. Guess they don't plan to be selling many since TVs 25" or larger already have a tuner and all TVs are supposed to have built in ATSC tuners beginning March 1.

Maybe all the profits for HDTV tuners will be found in ones with DVD recorders built in.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=786948

Of course, until May or so, many people will be SOL, and who knows how many of those things there will be then? At this time, the HDTV tuner marker is too small a market to mass-produce, yet too large a market that demand is greater than supply. Amazing.

I received my DTB-H260F a couple of days ago. When I first hooked up the HDMI cable to my set I got no sound. My set is a new Westhinghouse LTV-19w6. I had picture but could not get audio. I am not sure what I did but the audio eventually started working.

... My cable is a new HDMI to DVI, which is the connection on my TV.
Any comments would be appreciated. I love HD but I am not impressed with some of the technology yet. Or maybe it is just my ignorance since I am new to this.

DVI requires a separate audio cable to be hooked up as well to get audio - that being the big difference between DVI and HDMI (see http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DVI and http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/High-Definition_Multimedia_Interface ). The HDMI to DVI cables can't pass the audio like a straight HDMI can (see http://www.cobaltcable.com/hdmi_dvi_adapter.htm near the bottom for verification of this) so, not sure if that helps you with your situation or not, but you must have had some sort of additional audio hooked up that the volume was turned down or muted on that you somehow turned up or on.

Anyone feeding the output of a DTB-H260F into the input of a TiVo ?

I set it up using the component connection on my TV, then unplugged the component cable and used a composite cable to input into the TiVo (it only has S-Video IN and composite video IN, and of course RF IN). I ran the TiVo setup through as if I had switched to a cable box, when I got to the place to choose the input it indicated a video signal present at the composite input, but when I finished all I got was a black screen. I even cycled through all the supposed "cable channels", but no go.

It did not sound like they were going to keep them in stock any longer. Guess they don't plan to be selling many since TVs 25" or larger already have a tuner and all TVs are supposed to have built in ATSC tuners beginning March 1.

There's one big problem with this line of thought...VIDEO PROJECTORS.

I'll bet a lot of these tuners are purchased by people who recently bought video projectors. How come video projectors - for a front-projection setup - are exempt from the FCC ruling mandating the inclusion of an ATSC tuner?

I just bought the Samsung a few nights ago and have been happy so far with its performance. One thing I notice though is that the volume on my Hitachi 46" RP tv now has to be on average about 5-8 settings higher, and it's not very crisp sounding. Has anyone else had a problem with the audio sounding a bit muffled (this is through component hook-up)?

I hooked up mine to my TV's basic audio inputs and initially also had very muffled sound. Then I discovered the VOLUME button on the Samsung's remote :) Turn it up all the way, and the sound level will be more or less the same as your other sources. I also didn't notice any degradation in the sound once I turned up the volume.

Recently I switched to the optical output and am running the audio through my signal processing amp. In this configuration, the volume settings on the Samsung don't have any effect, and the sound level is of course the same as other sources.

Not sure what the HDMI would do, as my TV has a DVI interface.

I just bought the Samsung a few nights ago and have been happy so far with its performance. One thing I notice though is that the volume on my Hitachi 46" RP tv now has to be on average about 5-8 settings higher, and it's not very crisp sounding. Has anyone else had a problem with the audio sounding a bit muffled (this is through component hook-up)?

Look at the Samsung remote that came with your tuner. Find the volume rocker switch and press the + symbol until the display shows you're at 100. When mine arrived, the sound was set to around 30, and did indeed sound muffled. Now that it's at 100, I have no problems.

Anyone feeding the output of a DTB-H260F into the input of a TiVo? . . . when I finished all I got was a black screen. I even cycled through all the supposed "cable channels", but no go.

I'm super new to all of this, but unless it's a new series 3 tivo I don't think your Tivo can process digital/HD signals. In fact, I have a related issue.

Background: We live in Chicago, and are line-of-sight 10 miles to the Sears Tower with all thefree HD signals. We're renting a home that has a rather large VHF/UHF antenna on the roof. Because plugging our old TV into the coax hooked up to the antenna gave us super clear picture quality, I assume that we could get high-quality HD signals as well. We have a Series-2 Tivo which cannot handle HD signals as I understand it, but we have a free lifetime Tivo subscription, so I'm not ditching it any time soon. Wanting the best of both worlds, I just bought a 3-year old Sony Wega KV-32HS50 TV on Craigslist (it seems everyone in Chicago is buying HDTV flat panels for the super bowl). The Wega is "HDTV-ready" (1080i, 720p), but lacks an ATSC tuner, so I'm in the market for one, and am leaning towards the Samsung DTB-H260F.

Anyway, here's my plan, tell me if I'm missing something obvious:

1) get a coax splitter to send one branch of the antenna signal into the Tivo box (as it does now).

2) send the other branch into the set-top ATSC tuner, and then feed that into the component TV's inputs on the bak (sadly, no HDMI, but hey, it was a $200 TV).

Since we rarely watch live TV, we will continue to use the Tivo box to watch recorded shows. But if there is a live program we want to see, we can watch it through the HDTV tuner.

Will this work? Does anybody have experience with this Wega TV? Should I get the Samsung, or is another model better for my needs? Thanks for any and all help.

Anyway, here's my plan, tell me if I'm missing something obvious:

1) get a coax splitter to send one branch of the antenna signal into the Tivo box (as it does now).

2) send the other branch into the set-top ATSC tuner, and then feed that into the component TV's inputs on the bak (sadly, no HDMI, but hey, it was a $200 TV).


The H260F has an input "from antenna" and output which can go to your tivo.

Being only 10 miles from antenna you should have a strong signal that splitting will not matter much (this can depend on the RF frequency though)

You can still use component outputs.

I have my antenna going to the H260F, and the output going to a VCR, and the signal is strong on the VCR.

I have noticed a drop in signal when the power is off on the H260F though, it appears to amplify the antenna signal when on. Has anyone else noticed this?

So I won't need to split the signal before it goes into the tuner? My Tivo Series-2 box will be able to "handle" the signal coming through the tuner?

Sorry if this seems stupid. I just want to be sure before I pull the trigger on the Samsung.

This page has a picture of the back of the unit.

http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_b/h260f.html

The signal from the antenna will pass through the samsung and will then go to the Tivo.

The "HD signal" is just information attached to a Radio Frequency "RF", this radio frequency isn't any different from analog, just different information being transmitted.

The analog signals from the antenna are picked up by the Tivo (since you have a series 2 tivo).

There's one big problem with this line of thought...VIDEO PROJECTORS.

I'll bet a lot of these tuners are purchased by people who recently bought video projectors. How come video projectors - for a front-projection setup - are exempt from the FCC ruling mandating the inclusion of an ATSC tuner?

Simple - the FCC mandate only effects devices sold with tuners. If you're going to sell something with a tuner, it has to be ATSC. But companies are perfectly free to sell devices with no tuner at all.

I'm currently looking at buying a tunerless HD monitor - and trying to decide if I'm just opening myself up for a world of hurt. The model with built-in tuner is about 350 bucks more. I'd like to wait for all the cheap ATSC/QAM equipped DVD recorders to materialize, but I have this funny feeling they won't...

Prices will come down. In October 2005 I bought a 32" Panasonic "HD ready" TV for $1900. The lack of an ATSC tuner wasn't a problem for me because I already had a couple of HD receivers that I had been using with my old SD TV. About a year later, I saw its successor model (with ATSC tuner) selling for $1200.

Anyone feeding the output of a DTB-H260F into the input of a TiVo ?

I set it up using the component connection on my TV, then unplugged the component cable and used a composite cable to input into the TiVo (it only has S-Video IN and composite video IN, and of course RF IN). I ran the TiVo setup through as if I had switched to a cable box, when I got to the place to choose the input it indicated a video signal present at the composite input, but when I finished all I got was a black screen. I even cycled through all the supposed "cable channels", but no go.

I've done it with the previous model assuming its mostly the same, you will want to use satellite mode because it responds to the samsung directv codes, also cable channels probably won't match ota but they usually do on satellite. I'd try using s-video instead of composite.

...Will this work? Does anybody have experience with this Wega TV? Should I get the Samsung, or is another model better for my needs?Yes, it will work. Split the signal or use the Samsung's extra loop through coax connector, which eliminates the need for an extra splitter.

You don't have many choices for standalone ATSC tuners and you won't find a better one than the Samsung.

Just to quickly add my $0.02 in this thread, I just picked up this OTA Tuner and so far have had great success with it! I plan on reading most of this thread to find out what I need to keep my eye on.

My DTB-H260F has developed an odd issue. I use the QAM tuner and had entered most of my channels I want to receive as favorites. The unit began to forget some of the channels, so I did another auto program and now the unit won't pick up any of the channels I had previous entered as favorites. I know the channels are still there as I can pick them up on my LG unit. In addition, channels I did not enter as favorites are still picked up by the auto program.

Further compounding the issue is the Samsung does not appear to allow me to manually select a sub-channel when no other sub-channel for that main channel was found via auto program. Pressing the "-" merely returns to the previous channel. (For example, I wish to select 93-3. No 93-* sub-channels were found via auto program, so the unit will not let me enter a "-" after I enter 93). I can select sub-channels via the "-" if they have been found by the auto program sequence.

Anybody have any idea:

- How to do a master reset of the DTB-H260F?

or

- Know how to manually enter a sub-channel when no sub-channels of that main channel have been found by the auto program?

-TurboWells

I just picked up the Samsung DTB-H260F tuner on Friday night, at the local "CC". Their website listed one in stock.

I already own a Samsung SIR-T451 (not too much longer though, now available in online auction). This should summarize how much I like the tuner. I have high multipath interference, and my reception has improved greatly.

I did read all the posts in this forum, and I was concerned about the overscanning and stretching but decided to buy it anyway for improved reception.

I was able to use a video capture showing a 4:3 program, and a 16:9 program, with composite (RCA) output, and component video output. (I don't have a component video input for my computer, so I just used the B/W video from the Green [Y] output).

As a sidenote, this could be a great way for those with only S-Video or RCA inputs on their TV to set up their channels since you don't have any menus with these 2 input types - you must use Component or HDMI to see the menus.

16:9 Source Video - Component Input (just Y)-Letterbox
http://www.eylc.com/images/1.16x9-compnent.jpg

16:9 Source Video - RCA Input
http://www.eylc.com/images/2.16x9-RCA.jpg

With 16:9 Video and component video, you can select Letterbox, Full or Zoom, With RCA input you cannot select the screen format, 16:9 is automatically stretched to fit the full screen.

Now onto a 4:3 Source
4:3 Source Video - RCA input
http://www.eylc.com/images/3.4x3-RCA.jpg

4:3 Source Video - Component Input - (just Y) - Full
http://www.eylc.com/images/4.4x3-component.jpg

With a 4:3 source, the tuner overscans the Component Video output, while the RCA input is not overscanned. Since I input the video into a computer all the pixels are shown. When input into a TV, the TV overscans more and information is lost.

Also, with a 4:3 source you have to switch the aspect ratio to Full, if you left on Letterbox from viewing a 16:9 show, you will have a 4:3 program in a letterbox.

(The SIR-T451 automatically shows 4:3 broadcasts in full, and with 16:9 you can switch aspect, even with RCA input)

This would be a great tuner for a computer monitor, since they don't overscan. Or if you only watch 16:9 programs and use the Component Input - I assume the HDMI would be similar to Component.

You constantly will have to change the aspect ratios when watching 4:3 programs, if you are O.K. with that.

My TV has Component and RCA inputs, so one could just switch input sources, which for me just adds some remote juggling.

I intend to try this for 30 days to see if I can live with this or just wait until a newer model comes out.

The chip is much better, but the basic funtions are not well thought out.

Pros:
Great OTA reception, especially with multipath interference
Quicker Program Guide Loading
Other people have mentioned slow remote, but I find it faster than SIR-T451, only if you type the full channel and then hit enter (i.e. 19-1 enter, if you just type 19, it will take a long time to go to 19.1)

Cons:
No Menus with RCA or S-Video
Stretches 16:9 video with RCA or S-Video
Overscans 4:3 video with Component Video
I liked being able to nudge the video up/down left/right with the SIR-T451, this function not available

I had one quirk come up, I lost a signal, and I just left it on that channel for a few minutes, then when I changed the channel I had no video on any channel until I turned the unit off and on again.

(To answer the previous posters question about resetting, I'm not positive about this unit, but sometimes you can turn the unit off and hold the power button for a while and this will reset. My sony reciever and DVD player work this way)

Note: the 16:9 video capture is from WTVR-DT Richmond, the 4:3 video capture is from WCAV Charlottesville, my apologies to the station and the NFL for not obtaining written permission to use images from their broadcasts.

I bought this at local CC in Bel Air, MD. Sorry, last one. I rushed home, plugged in Comcast analog cable, and scanned. And got 80 channels of dead air, if you will. All it received was local Fox HD. After a good bout of cursing and channel fiddling, I decided to just get an antenna. So I zoomed over to Radio Shack, bought the $50 indoor antenna with good reviews, and plugged it in. I expected to fail miserably, because the RS salesperson said that "outdoor antennas perform much better", and coincidentally, cost a lot more. But anyway, I scanned and got every station on antennaweb, even some that weren't even on the list. And I live 30+ miles from all of them! So I watched Anchorman in 720P. It was funny.

Pros: Good antenna reception. Useful guide.
Cons: Stupid output resolution switch. Sluggish menu. Way too quiet. Annoying setup. Coax pass-through diminished signal quality.

Just in case your wondering if it would be a better deal to just get a monitor and this instead of a real TV, I wouldn't recommend it. It's a nice little box, but the ease of a built-in tuner probably outweighs any advantage you might gain by going this route.

Way too quiet....
If you're referring to the low audio level, the volume on the remote should be turned all the way up to equal a normal line level audio output. Then use another device (TV or audio receiver) to control volume.

I guess the hardest part about using the DTB-H260F is buying one. :)

These appear to be sold out online/offline at most major venues. B&H Photo has them for two Benjamins, but the going rate everywhere else seems to be an Andrew Jackson less. Add in free shipping from other sites, and the difference is enough to worry about.

What's the best best for tracking these down? Product "in stock" email alerts from CC and BB? I've got a "pre-order" with Amazon that is claiming they don't expect delivery of more units until March 9.

Have I missed a channel that is reasonable? I'd rather not pay a premium for it and can wait. But less wait is better.

P.S. Any thoughts on an internal antenna that pairs well with this unit? I'm 25 miles from the towers on Mt. Wilson with a relatively direct line of sight. The room is upper floor facing the mountain, so not too many internal structure issues to deal with.

One Call and PC Connection on back order. One call less than 180 w/3 day shipping.

Any thoughts on an internal antenna that pairs well with this unit? I'm 25 miles from the towers on Mt. Wilson with a relatively direct line of sight. The room is upper floor facing the mountain, so not too many internal structure issues to deal with.Indoor Antenna:
Zenith/Philips/Gemstar "Silver Sensor"
Sold at CircuitCity as the Philips PHDTV1 (http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=158311&WT.mc_n=4&WT.mc_t=U&cm_ven=COMPARISON%20SHOPPING&cm_cat=GOOGLE&cm_pla=DATAFEED-%3EPRODUCTS&cm_ite=1%20PRODUCT&cm_keycode=4) (NOT the PHDTV3).

The unit began to forget some of the channels, so I did another auto program and now the unit won't pick up any of the channels I had previous entered as favorites.

my experience as well: mine also lost all channel call signs and their virtual channel numbers.

and I have quite a few duplicate channels - see my earlier posts.

I haven't found a cure yet.

Sorry for another newbie question. I have a 3x4 Sony HDTV-ready set with a DVI input and 2 sets of component inputs. I just ordered the Sammy tuner from oncall. Should I use the DVI for the video (and component for the audio), which would mean buying a HDMI-to-DVI cable, right? Or just use component video? Is there that much of a difference between DVI and component video?

We're just using OTA signals, and my TV doesn't have a crop feature (or stretch, zoom, etc) so will I have to be flicking that switch to go from 1080i to 720 etc, in the back? My TV can "upsample" to 1080i (whatever that means). The TV is a Wega KV-32HS500.

The reason I ask is I'd like to put the tuner on a shelf below the TV, but won't do it if I have to reach back there all the time to flick some switch.

snert,
Just use component cables. On that CRT TV, you shouldn't see any improvement using HDMI/DVI.

Set the Samsung on 1080i and leave it there.

I guess the hardest part about using the DTB-H260F is buying one....
What's the best best for tracking these down?Email alerts and check sites like Froogle (http://froogle.google.com/froogle?q=Samsung+DTB-H260F).

Well I got my Comcast Cable installed this weekend and connected it to my Samsung. I did the auto-discover of channels, and while it found some, it did not find any of my "basic cable" stations like SciFi and MTV and ESPN regular.

Anyone know why this is, or what I need to do to get these channels? Or does the box just not find them?

Well I got my Comcast Cable installed this weekend and connected it to my Samsung. I did the auto-discover of channels, and while it found some, it did not find any of my "basic cable" stations like SciFi and MTV and ESPN regular.

Anyone know why this is, or what I need to do to get these channels? Or does the box just not find them?

The Samsung does not have an NTSC tuner, only QAM and ATSC.

The Samsung does not have an NTSC tuner, only QAM and ATSC.

Well my TV is a monitor, so is my only recourse to use a VCR or someother NTSC tuner?

Or could you recommend an HDTV tuner that has an NTSC, QAM, and ATSC tuner built in.

I can't recommend it and know nothing about it, but here is a link to a standalone NTSC/ATSC/QAM tuner (http://www.epvision.com/).

EDIT: Per this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=638769), this tuner does *not* receive NTSC.

When deciding between buying a Plasma with built in tuner vs getting the Samsung STB, I have heard no one comment on exactly what generation of ATSC Tuner a Plasma is being shipped with.

The Samsung DTB-H260F is the latest generation chip set as far as I know. Not sure if all Plasma tuners being sold have the latest generation multipath handling capabilities.

-DonB2

Well one last thing, the auto find feature shows "333" channels, although most of them are blank.

Also the guide feature doesnt seem to show any upcoming shows. And the only channels that have names are NBC, CBS, ABC, and PBS...not even FOX shows up by its correct name.

Do you people who are having issues with the Samsung losing memorized stations experiencing this on units that run hot?

My unit has not yet had this issue and I have never noticed it running hot even though I leave it on full time.

-DonB2

I've had one (DTB-H260F) for a couple of months now; long enough to find where the bodies are buried.

First, the good news: works pretty well, draws in 23 stations with a lousy set of Radio Shack rabbit ears in the metro Boston area (lots of multipath from scattering off buildings, etc.).

Now my complaints:

Very slow to boot up.

The "guide" function is supposed to display PIP of the currently tuned station, but it seems the poor embedded processor is so overworked by this function that it can't display the PIP while it is fetching program listings.

I haven't been able to find discrete on/off IR codes for my universal remote.

You have to use 0.5 second delays between digits when defining macros to go directly to a channel in the universal remote. Even then, it sometimes doesn't get them right.

The menu system won't display on the composite output, only on component or HDMI. Can't imagine why that would be, but it's documented in the user's manual.

I guess my biggest complaint is that whatever the embedded processor is in this thing, it doesn't really have enough moxie for the task.

Chip

Hello,
I have the H260F connected to a Westinghouse 1080p monitor for OTA digital. I am looking for the best way to record digital programming. So far what I have been thinking is get a tivo 3 (even though I don’t want to pay monthly fee's) or get a Sony HDD500 off eBay, then sell the H260F. I would really like it if there was a way to use the Sammy H260F connected to a PVR of some kind (I have a ps3 that could run MythTV via Linux). Does anyone know of a way to do this cheep (aka tivo series 2, MythTV, ect.) it would be very helpful. Thanks a ton!

or get a Sony HDD500 off eBay, then sell the H260F.

I'd keep the H260F alongside the Sony unless I was really pressed for money. It's nice to be able to watch one channel while recording another one. You can't do that with the Sony alone.

Well my TV is a monitor, so is my only recourse to use a VCR or someother NTSC tuner?

Or could you recommend an HDTV tuner that has an NTSC, QAM, and ATSC tuner built in.


The Samsung works very well for viewing Comcast basic cable. Just hook the cable into the Samsung and use the component out to the tv. Then take the Samsung RF out which is really a passthrough and attach to your TV RF in. You can then view the Comcast basic cable channels on the TV's RF input and the OTA or QAM channels on the Component Input. If you use an A/B switch to connect both an OTA antenna and a Cable line the Cable passthrough will not work when you use the OTA side of the A/B switch. This is my setup and it works great.

Of course without an internal tuner you will have to connect thye Samsung's ANT out to a VCR.

Do you people who are having issues with the Samsung losing memorized stations experiencing this on units that run hot?

My unit has not yet had this issue and I have never noticed it running hot even though I leave it on full time.

-DonB2

My unit doesn't seem warm at all and has the 'memory' issues.

TurboWells

Set the Samsung on 1080i and leave it there.

What is the purpose of the switch in the back then? If you have a 1080i-capable TV, you can just leave it on 1080i the whole time?

What is the purpose of the switch in the back then? If you have a 1080i-capable TV, you can just leave it on 1080i the whole time?

YES. The purpose of the switch is that not all sets are 1080i capable. Some might have a 720p set while others only have a SD set that will only accept 480i or 480p.

What is the purpose of the switch in the back then? To select the output of the box to match the native resolution of your TV. The switch is seldom changed after initial setup, so thats why it is on the back. So you wont accidentally change it to the wrong setting.

To select the output of the box to match the native resolution of your TV. .

Sorry for the uber-newbie question, but I just picked up a second-hand Sony Wega KV-32HS500. I can't post links yet, but it's described as:

"The set's standard 4:3 aspect ratio, Hi-Scan 1080i display, and picture-improvement circuitry let you view a mix of source signals at higher resolutions, up to 1080i, more than a thousand horizontal lines. DRC--Digital Reality Creation MultiFunction circuitry--upconverts standard interlaced (480i) video sources to 960i or 480p, while inputs as high-quality as 720p (720 lines, progressively scanned) are upsampled to full 1080i."

Does this mean the "native" resolution of my TV is 1080i or 720p? Which should I have the switch set for (when it finally arrives!)?

When deciding between buying a Plasma with built in tuner vs getting the Samsung STB, I have heard no one comment on exactly what generation of ATSC Tuner a Plasma is being shipped with.

The Samsung DTB-H260F is the latest generation chip set as far as I know. Not sure if all Plasma tuners being sold have the latest generation multipath handling capabilities.

-DonB2
LG's 5th Gen ATSC Demoduator chip is reportedly being used
in recent LG/Zenith (and a few other) Plasmas and LCDs:
http://www.tvtechnology.com/features/news/n_vendors_chip.shtml

ATI claims they supply the majority of ATSC Demodulator chips
including the "5th Gen" Xillion 240H in the DTB-H260F
and earlier Theater and NXT200x series:
http://techreport.com/onearticle.x/11447
http://ir.ati.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=105421&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=798210&highlight=

I would expect that most HDTV's built in 2006 (designed in 2004/2005)
would have a high performance "5th Gen" ATSC Demodulator.
Any built in 2004 (and probably most of 2005) were using earlier generation chips....
Unfortunately, without opening and identifying chips, very little is known wrt which set has what....

You are invited to try matching up published ATSC Tuner tests
(FCC/OET test was summer 2005) to (unidentified) STB's and HDTVs:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7024579&highlight=ILLR#post7024579

snert,
1080i. Your TV rescales everything to 1080i. So set the switch on the Samsung to 1080i. And don't move it again.

That's why they put it on the back, out of sight.

TurboWells and Holl_ands ,

Thanks for the feedback.

-DonB2

snert,
1080i. Your TV rescales everything to 1080i. So set the switch on the Samsung to 1080i. And don't move it again.

Here's my question - my Syntax LT32HV is 1366x768 native, but it can handle 1080i inputs. So, should I keep my H260F set to "720p" or "1080i"? For example, if the ATSC signal is native 720p (60fps), and the H260F is set put out 1080i, what input goes to the TV? Is it at 60fps like 720p or is it scaled and tweaked to 1080i (higher res but 30fps)?

Here's my question - my Syntax LT32HV is 1366x768 native, but it can handle 1080i inputs. So, should I keep my H260F set to "720p" or "1080i"? For example, if the ATSC signal is native 720p (60fps), and the H260F is set put out 1080i, what input goes to the TV? Is it at 60fps like 720p or is it scaled and tweaked to 1080i (higher res but 30fps)?
Try both ways and see which looks best.

I have a Vizio 32" LCD with 1366x768 native and 1080i looks better on mine.

Yes. Use your eyes and choose the output resolution that looks best with your TV and this STB.

If you can't tell any difference, just pick either 720p or 1080i.

LG's 5th Gen ATSC Demoduator chip is reportedly being used
in recent LG/Zenith (and a few other) Plasmas and LCDs:
http://www.tvtechnology.com/features/news/n_vendors_chip.shtml

I would expect that most HDTV's built in 2006 (designed in 2004/2005)
would have a high performance "5th Gen" ATSC Demodulator.
Any built in 2004 (and probably most of 2005) were using earlier generation chips....
Unfortunately, without opening and identifying chips, very little is known wrt which set has what....


So, anyone want to take a guess:
Does my Samsung LN-4092D 40" LCD tv with a manufacture date of August 2006 have the 5th Gen chip?

Will the Samsung 260 stb tuner work any better on weak signals than the ATSC tuner in my TV?

I live in a weak signal area 30+ miles, with mountains (zip05674) and have trouble getting signal lock with good antenna pre-amp rooftop setup. Dish vip622 only locks one dtv channel, my samusung tv locks 3 or 4 dtv channel, with only one watchable most of the time.

I guess the hardest part about using the DTB-H260F is buying one. :)

These appear to be sold out online/offline at most major venues. B&H Photo has them for two Benjamins, but the going rate everywhere else seems to be an Andrew Jackson less. Add in free shipping from other sites, and the difference is enough to worry about.

What's the best best for tracking these down? Product "in stock" email alerts from CC and BB? I've got a "pre-order" with Amazon that is claiming they don't expect delivery of more units until March 9.

Have I missed a channel that is reasonable? I'd rather not pay a premium for it and can wait. But less wait is better.


Confirmed. B&H photo only source online in stock right now for $20 more. None of the CC or BB rackets in my area have them either. Looks like wait a month+ or shell out the extra jackson. :(

Circuit City has some in the 95819 zip code for Sacramento, Stockton, or Modesto cities.

Confirmed. B&H photo only source online in stock right now for $20 more. None of the CC or BB rackets in my area have them either. Looks like wait a month+ or shell out the extra jackson. :(


Just ordered mine from B&H photo.... I figured screw it I want to watch TV dammit. :cool:

Check with Tweeter in the next week or so... They may get some in next week or so was informed but not hard confirmed.

I'm super new to all of this, but unless it's a new series 3 tivo I don't think your Tivo can process digital/HD signals.
Actually, during the setup for an alternative input, the TiVo asks if the input is digital or not. Obviously, it will not record HD.

To update, I was able to successfully record from the DTB-H260F to a TiVo by connecting with the composite cables, tuning the TiVo to channel "00", and scheduling a manual record on the channel labeled "showcases". Worked like a charm (I'm assuming the S-Video connection would work as well. I'll try it as soon as I can find my cable.).

Will the Samsung 260 stb tuner work any better on weak signals than the ATSC tuner in my TV?
Unfortunately, that's not been my experience. Just in one direction, the ATSC tuner in my TV receives 17 sub-channels from 8 different stations, while the Samsung receives 4 sub-channels from only 2 different stations. Needless to say, I'm quite disappointed.

Whittaker,

What make/model TV do you have?

Just ordered mine from B&H photo.... I figured screw it I want to watch TV dammit. :cool:

There you go! me too.

BTW - anyone looking for this unit online: you can also take your chances on Ebay. Circuit City (trading city on ebay) is selling a bunch of them AS-IS. They only guarentee it will power up when you get, otherwise NO returns. I suspect these are some of the DOA boxes (refurbed) mentioned in this thread, and some are just damaged cardboard boxes in transit.

Unfortunately, that's not been my experience. Just in one direction, the ATSC tuner in my TV receives 17 sub-channels from 8 different stations, while the Samsung receives 4 sub-channels from only 2 different stations. Needless to say, I'm quite disappointed.
That's one of the main reasons I sent mine back to CC, I lost a few ota channels.
I still get very good reception with my DB-2010 :( (wish they still made them.Their tuners are fast at channel changes plus the component and sd outputs but no dvi works with my tvs)

Looks like BB have then back instock.. But In Store only!

What make/model TV do you have?
It's not HD, just digital. I'm waiting to see if they really intend to do the switchover this time. If you still want the specs, I'll check the model number.

Looks like BB have then back instock.. But In Store only!

Yeah I was looking at Best Buys site last night, and at about 3:00 A.M. it went from sold out to available in store only.

I got lucky and found that they had a couple stores within 40 miles that had them in stock. Luckily one of the stores is on my way to work, so today I went a picked one up.

For anyone in the Detroit area, the Westland store had 4 left as of about 4:00 P.M. today. Also the Ann Arbor store was listed as having some but I did not verify.

"Quote:
Originally Posted by Whittaker
Unfortunately, that's not been my experience. Just in one direction, the ATSC tuner in my TV receives 17 sub-channels from 8 different stations, while the Samsung receives 4 sub-channels from only 2 different stations. Needless to say, I'm quite disappointed.


That's one of the main reasons I sent mine back to CC, I lost a few ota channels.
I still get very good reception with my DB-2010 (wish they still made them.Their tuners are fast at channel changes plus the component and sd outputs but no dvi works with my tvs) "

I had a Samsung Sir T 451 and had decent reception with it. I than got a Pioneer PDP - 4340HD with built in ATSC tuner and found that it performed as well as the 451 if not better. Also since Pioneers tuner was built in it was nicer and easier to use. I retired the 451 to my brother who is presently using it for QAM.

I now own the Samsung DTB-H260F,

It gets more channels than I got with the Pioneer and the 451.

I now receive PAX which has been renamed ION from 46.5 miles away. I never could receive PAX with my Pioneer except for very rare occasions.

This is in the Raleigh area where I put up with a lot of multipath ghosting issues.

The Pax station I do not believe has ghosts problems but on the Pioneer signal strength I see around 9 out of 100 percent. On the DTB-H260F I see PAX(ION) around 4 to five bars out of ten.

Can you people who are finding less channels with the DTB tell us if these channels you are not getting are local or long distance?

-DonB2

I now receive PAX which has been renamed ION from 46.5 miles away. I never could receive PAX with my Pioneer except for very rare occasions.

This is in the Raleigh area where I put up with a lot of multipath ghosting issues.

The Pax station I do not believe has ghosts problems but on the Pioneer signal strength I see around 9 out of 100 percent. On the DTB-H260F I see PAX(ION) around 4 to five bars out of ten.

Can you people who are finding less channels with the DTB tell us if these channels you are not getting are local or long distance?

-DonB2

I'd love to know this also, as I'm trying to decide what to buy for my situation. For you responders, in addition to long distance, are you line of sight, flat or hilly, multi-path challenged or not? Tuners can be good at one thing, but worse at another, so your experiences are greatly appreciated to readers of this forum.

Rich

Please help!

How do you record OTA HD programs with this Samsung tuners? I have looked in the HDTV Recording section of the forum but couldn't find a solution.

Thanks for your help.

Please help!

How do you record OTA HD programs with this Samsung tuners? I have looked in the HDTV Recording section of the forum but couldn't find a solution.

Thanks for your help.

There is an s-video port on the back that's always active and you can connect that to a DVD recorder. I use an RCA DRC8052N which has the capability to perform upconversion on playback of DVDs and passthru video sources plugged into its AV1 and AV2 ports. Provides very nice upconversion, is < $100 @ Walmart, provides output over HDMI (the WalMArt version even has an included HDMI cable), and it preserves the 16:9 aspect ratio from the HD tuner in the recording.

Understand, though, that the limiting factor in recording "HD" is that current generation DVD recorders only process and record 480i inputs, so you are not truly recording HD. The nice thing about the RCA unit I have is that you can upconvert the 480i resolution 16:9 aspect ratio material you record to 720p or 1080i when you play it back (not as good as the original, but not bad at all).

Riverplace ,

What are you trying to record to? DVD, DVR, HD, VCR SVHS?

For DVD and VCR you can as a minimum use the Composite out and Stereo out.

You can go into the TV Guide Menu of the Samsung and scroll around to the show you want to record and press enter.

A icon will appear next to the program that looks like a clock face.

You than have to leave the Samsung on and go to your VCR or VHS and set it up to record Video in for the time period of the show.

The only short fall is you can only set it up to record about 8 hrs in advance.


Or you can just record shows that are live with the video out.

Of course what I described will not record HD 16*9 without first downconverting it to composite.

-DonB2

tadietz ,

I had a inexpensive Coby DVD recorder and was always amazed at how much better analog cable recordings looked compared to what I could produce with my VCR.

Unfortunately I had lots of issues with the Coby messing up during finalizing of discs and not recognising a perfectly good blank disc during timed recordings and so on.

I am glad to hear you are happy with your RCA DRC8052N !

-DonB2

tadietz ,

I had a inexpensive Coby DVD recorder and was always amazed at how much better analog cable recordings looked compared to what I could produce with my VCR.

Unfortunately I had lots of issues with the Coby messing up during finalizing of discs and not recognising a perfectly good blank disc during timed recordings and so on.

I am glad to hear you are happy with your RCA DRC8052N !

-DonB2
In all honesty, I have just done some initial dabbling with the recording capabilities. Though I have had some usability issues (I probably should read that manual some day...), everything seems to work OK. Others out there have reported some tuner and DOA issues in the past. No unpleasant experiences for me so far. I actually just bought another one for my bedroom 32" LCD TV :)

Though I bought it to transfer VHS home movies to DVD, my main use so far is as a DVD player and real-time SD Dish satellite output upconversion processor. I always hated the look of SD Dish on my plasma until this unit became part of my HT system, and I am too cheap to go with Dish HD.

It's not HD, just digital. I'm waiting to see if they really intend to do the switchover this time. If you still want the specs, I'll check the model number.

But you also said:

"Unfortunately, that's not been my experience. Just in one direction, the ATSC tuner in my TV receives 17 sub-channels from 8 different stations, while the Samsung receives 4 sub-channels from only 2 different stations. Needless to say, I'm quite disappointed."

So, if an ATSC tuner is in your TV, isn't it an HDTV? The model number of this TV is significant here, as it seems to get better reception than the Samsung external tuner. There may be people buying a new TV that would like to get one. Plus, those of us considering the Samsung would like to know what reception scenario the Samsung is less capable for.

Rich

(From Whittaker)
But you also said:

"Unfortunately, that's not been my experience. Just in one direction, the ATSC tuner in my TV receives 17 sub-channels from 8 different stations, while the Samsung receives 4 sub-channels from only 2 different stations. Needless to say, I'm quite disappointed."

So, if an ATSC tuner is in your TV, isn't it an HDTV? The model number of this TV is significant here, as it seems to get better reception than the Samsung external tuner. There may be people buying a new TV that would like to get one. Plus, those of us considering the Samsung would like to know what reception scenario the Samsung is less capable for.

Rich


Hey RichBenn and DonB2,

Ok, here's my initial results with the Samsung DTB-H260F: Disappointing.

I swung my BB last nite on my way home, just to see....whammo, I was in luck! Got the only one they just put on the shelf.

I have a Samsung 4092 LCD tv with ATSC tuner. Manufactured August 2006 in Mexico. My tv's tuner gets better reception for digital channels and locks onto signals better than the Samsung DTB-260, in my particular situation.

I am in a very weak signal area, 29.6 miles from towers for Burlington, VT area, all collocated on Mt. Mansfield. I am in the mountains, AND on the wrong side of a hill, in the azimuth of the towers. Plus I have trees to go through. The hill is ~200 ft. higher and tops out 2300 ft. away from my house. The stations all have wimpy transmission power, but for one. they are at 628kwh, 350, 90, 10kwh. (Ch's are 13, 14, 32, 53). My TV is able to find all four and lock on with a scan. However, only two are watchable most of the time due to drop-outs on others. the Samsung 260 tuner was only able to find one channel with a scan - the one that is rock solid all the time anyway - ch13 on VHF). I tried to enter the ch #'s directly on the 260 tuner and got "Weak or No singal message" with repeated tries - wouldn't lock on. Tried last nite and again this am. Amazingly the one channel I get solid all the time, is the whimpiest 10kwh on VHF - crazy, but it gets over the hill better than UHF. The other station I get some or most of the time is the strongest one 628kwh on ch 53. Done a lot of experiementing with different antennas, placement, aiming and others advice (currently running CM 4248 yagi UHF and RS-VU90X for VHF with CM 7778 pre-amp rooftop set-up). Thought maybe the Samsung 260 would get me that extra little I need for the other channels. Oh well. sorry for the long post, wanted to give you all the info.

zenbig42 ,

That is too bad I wonder what the difference is since both are made by Samsung?

Just out of curiosity how well do you receive the analog versions of these stations assuming you have a NTSC tuner?

I hope for you that the digital towers go full power soon, either that or that you are a skiier and can take advantage of the terrain.

-DonB2

Yes, they are both Samsung. go figure. I'd guess different chipsets? I at least wanted to try the 260, since I can take it back. Unfortunately, I think the stations are at full power, at least what they are currently licensed for. Maybe since smaller market, less $$ going into OTA

Analog channels are basically the same deal. I can get a couple of them well, others not at all. VHF comes in best. Yes skier. Good mountains. Good snow and winter right now.

I have CM 4228 with pre amp and went to an Antenna Direct 91XG. It made all the difference and I have 2 hills -1 directly behind me and the larger 2 miles-both have 60-80ft pines. I use the CM 7775 with the 91 and a rotor. I also receive a CBS station from almost 60 miles away from the rear of the 91 and at 5 bars on the Samsung. I tried the largest RS UHF and it is recyclable material only.

So, if an ATSC tuner is in your TV, isn't it an HDTV?
No, it's just a digital SD.

I got into this whole OTA digital bassackwards. My second TV recently went up in smoke (literally), so I decided to move my primary TV over to where the second one was, and upgrade my primary. So, I happened upon an inexpensive 32" that came with an additional ATSC tuner. I figured when I did upgrade my primary to a flat screen HD a year or two from now, I could move it over as my second TV and I wouldn't need a converter box. To my complete amazement, I received all these OTA digital channels. Most are not HD, but the picture quality is just ASTOUNDING.

The model number of this TV is significant here, as it seems to get better reception than the Samsung external tuner. There may be people buying a new TV that would like to get one.
I doubt it, it's an RCA 32" and the model is a 32V434T. It weighs a ton. The tuner, so far, does seem to be far superior to the Samsung.

Plus, those of us considering the Samsung would like to know what reception scenario the Samsung is less capable for.
I plan on doing some experimenting with the Samsung reception on Saturday.

Hey RichBenn and DonB2,

Ok, here's my initial results with the Samsung DTB-H260F: Disappointing.

I swung my BB last nite on my way home, just to see....whammo, I was in luck! Got the only one they just put on the shelf.

I have a Samsung 4092 LCD tv with ATSC tuner. Manufactured August 2006 in Mexico. My tv's tuner gets better reception for digital channels and locks onto signals better than the Samsung DTB-260, in my particular situation.

I am in a very weak signal area, 29.6 miles from towers for Burlington, VT area, all collocated on Mt. Mansfield. I am in the mountains, AND on the wrong side of a hill, in the azimuth of the towers. Plus I have trees to go through. The hill is ~200 ft. higher and tops out 2300 ft. away from my house. The stations all have wimpy transmission power, but for one. they are at 628kwh, 350, 90, 10kwh. (Ch's are 13, 14, 32, 53). My TV is able to find all four and lock on with a scan. However, only two are watchable most of the time due to drop-outs on others. the Samsung 260 tuner was only able to find one channel with a scan - the one that is rock solid all the time anyway - ch13 on VHF). I tried to enter the ch #'s directly on the 260 tuner and got "Weak or No singal message" with repeated tries - wouldn't lock on. Tried last nite and again this am. Amazingly the one channel I get solid all the time, is the whimpiest 10kwh on VHF - crazy, but it gets over the hill better than UHF. The other station I get some or most of the time is the strongest one 628kwh on ch 53. Done a lot of experiementing with different antennas, placement, aiming and others advice (currently running CM 4248 yagi UHF and RS-VU90X for VHF with CM 7778 pre-amp rooftop set-up). Thought maybe the Samsung 260 would get me that extra little I need for the other channels. Oh well. sorry for the long post, wanted to give you all the info.

Good information, thanks! Does antennanet.org show that these are your only stations? Or are you doing better than they say?

No, it's just a digital SD.

I got into this whole OTA digital bassackwards. My second TV recently went up in smoke (literally), so I decided to move my primary TV over to where the second one was, and upgrade my primary. So, I happened upon an inexpensive 32" that came with an additional ATSC tuner. I figured when I did upgrade my primary to a flat screen HD a year or two from now, I could move it over as my second TV and I wouldn't need a converter box. To my complete amazement, I received all these OTA digital channels. Most are not HD, but the picture quality is just ASTOUNDING.

I plan on doing some experimenting with the Samsung reception on Saturday.

Thanks, I understand now! BTW, by reception scenario, I meant are you close or far from the towers (i.e., <30 miles, >30, >50). And do you have alot of trees and/or large buildings, mountains in the line of sight? I ask because some tuners are better than others at sensitivity (long distance), some better at alternate channel rejection, and some better at different kinds of multi-path issues (caused by trees and other obstacles).

The FCC has done tests on various receivers, and 5th generation chips are "overall" better, but they vary widely in terms of reception performance. And that performance, they claim in the same paper, has no correlation with "price". (There is a link somewhere in this forum).

Unfortunately, they don't name the receivers used in the test.

Interesting to see that a low cost SDTV has better reception than a new, separate ATSC tuner!

If you find this test that the FCC did let usknow as I do not recall seeing it. Too bad it didn't include the models.

-DonB2

I'd love to know this also, as I'm trying to decide what to buy for my situation. For you responders, in addition to long distance, are you line of sight, flat or hilly, multi-path challenged or not? Tuners can be good at one thing, but worse at another, so your experiences are greatly appreciated to readers of this forum.

Rich

My reception problems and successes have been chronicled in the Charlottesville/Harrisonburg OTA forum, but here is a summary.

I have a CM 4228 with over 50' of RG 6 going directly to Samsung Tuner. I'm also at 1420' elevation.

Charlottesville is local at 20 miles, I have line of sight to the towers and have no problems receiving all Charlottesville digital stations. I can even use a set top antenna for these. There are 3 digital Charlottesville channels broadcasting NBC, CBS, ABC, FOX, CW, MNT and PBS but only one is HD (NBC).

Richmond, VA towers are 76 to 81 miles from me, and the 4 major networks are broadcast in HD. I have just a few trees between me and the horizon, the horizon consists of a few high ridges at about the same elevation or higher than mine. The closest ridgeline is about 10 miles away.

I first used the antenna left on the house from previous owners (UHF/VHF - 12' long and probably from Radio Shack) and the Samsung SIR-T451. When I aimed at Richmond, I lost Charlottesville and vice versa. With this set-up I was able to get a few Richmond stations, but nothing consistent. From there I either needed a rotor or a different antenna.

I bought a CM 4228 antenna and a CM 7777 amplifier. With this set up I thought I would be able to get all the Richmond Stations....but I didn't. I ended up removing the amplifier mostly because I wasn't getting any Richmond stations digitally, and the amplifier was causing problems with analog reception, I had too much amplification from the local stations.

After taking the amplifier off, I was able to get one Richmond station 24/7, and that happened to be the weakest one - WCVW at 100kW! (Do weak stations cause less multipath interference?)

I was receiving CBS, NBC and ABC in the mornings until about 10 or 11 am, and then my signal would drop completely. After reading and searching online I figured I was having multipath interference problems.

It was suggested to me by others on the forum to try a receiver with a 5th gen. chipset, so I bought the Samsung DTB-H260F 1 week ago, and just in time for the Super Bowl.

This is what antennaweb shows for my location: (I added the effective power from FCC database)

WVIR-DT 29.1 NBC CHARLOTTESVILLE VA 109° 19.8 32 - 1000 kW
WRIC-DT 8.1 ABC PETERSBURG VA 126° 76.6 22 - 450 kW
WCVE-DT 23.1 PBS RICHMOND VA 126° 76.6 42 - 160 kW
WCVW-DT 57.1 PBS RICHMOND VA 126° 76.6 44 - 100 kW
WHTJ-DT 41.1 PBS CHARLOTTESVILLE VA 109° 19.7 46 - 160 kW
WTVR-DT 6.1 CBS RICHMOND VA 126° 76.6 25 - 410 kW
WWBT-DT 12.1 NBC RICHMOND VA 125° 81.6 54 - 1000 kW
WUPV-DT 47.1 CW ASHLAND VA 111° 88.8 47 - 1000 kW
WRLH-DT 35.1 FOX RICHMOND VA 126° 76.6 26 - 800 kW


From the above list, I received WVIR, WCVW, and WHTJ (and also WAHU-DT which is Charlottesville), with the SIR-T451. I received WRIC, WTVR, WWBT some mornings only, and never any watchable signal for WRLH.

With the Samsung DTB-H260F I get all the stations most of the time. I do get some dropouts in the afternoon with WRLH, WWBT, and WTVR.

For a few days I had both tuners hooked up, and there were many times I couldn't get a lock on a channel with the SIR-T451, but the Samsung DTB-H260F would be fine.

I don't get WUPV, I can if I turn my antenna, but I don't really need to since WVIR also carries CW as a subchannel.

Does anyone use the antenna output from their H260F to an analog tuner, TV, etc.

I still have one local analog that doesn't broadcast digitally, so I use the tuner on the VCR. If I turn off the Samsung, I loose reception, and it comes back when I turn on the Samsung.

It seems to diminish the antenna pass through when the power is off, and then act as an amplifier when the power is on.

There was a question a few days ago about using this Tuner and a TiVo, with this information, I would leave the Samsung on, or use a splitter.

The station I loose is a weak analog one, other stations that are stronger are fine with the Samsung turned off.

I use the pass thru and I leave the Samsung on. It runs as cool as a cucumber.

I am glad I do not have the toaster oven versions that some people are talking about or I would turn it off.

But by leaving it on I also have instant HD.

I first go to the Samsung with my antenna than from pass through I go to Pioneer Analog and ATSC tuner.

-DonB2

I use the pass thru and I leave the Samsung on. It runs as cool as a cucumber.

I am glad I do not have the toaster oven versions that some people are talking about or I would turn it off.

But by leaving it on I also have instant HD.

I first go to the Samsung with my antenna than from pass through I go to Pioneer Analog and ATSC tuner.

-DonB2

DonB2,

I do the same but I've found that when I use the passthru without powering on the Samsung, the other device gets a lesser signal strength than when the Samsung is powered on. Have you noticed that in your situation? I read somewhere that the Samsung amplifies the signal going out by 2 db when it is powered on.

I think I read that it amplifies it also. I have not tried powering it down to see what happens to my Pioneers signal, but I do remember someone else saying that the Samsung needs to be powered a few posts back.

-DonB2

zenbig42 ,

I just noticed what you said about your analog channels "Analog channels are basically the same deal. I can get a couple of them well, others not at all. VHF comes in best."

IMHO- If you can't get analog channels in well enough to watch you are certainily horizontaly and vertically challenged with trying to receive digital channels.

-DonB2

Why do I not get all the cable channels on this thing? My tuner on my Plasma is junked so now I have this to by pass. I get the few HD channels but don't get the basic ones in. I have Comcast so I don't know whats up. :(

Why do I not get all the cable channels on this thing? My tuner on my Plasma is junked so now I have this to by pass. I get the few HD channels but don't get the basic ones in. I have Comcast so I don't know whats up. :(

Venturing a guess, I would say that it because this thing is only an HDTV tuner and doesn't process SD at all, either off the air or from cable. Comcast must be somehow multiplexing ATSC and NTSC stuff on the same cable rather than broadcasting all the channels in HD format with the SD channels content shown in 4:3 with sidebars like the OTA HD stations do for SD content.

I get the few HD channels but don't get the basic ones in.

If you have analog basic cable service, all the non-HD channels are sent via NTSC signals (same kind as over-the-air broadcast). The Samsung doesn't pick up NTSC, only ATSC (over-the-air digital) and QAM (cable digital).\

For NTSC, get a cheap (analog) cable-ready VCR. Or spend a bit more and get a DVD recorder, if you think you might actually want to record something. Daisy-chain it on the cable with the Samsung, and feed its composite-video (yellow) and audio (red/white) outputs into your TV. Then on your TV, switch inputs to switch between analog and digital channels, and use either the Samsung or the VCR to tune channels as appropriate.

If you wait a month or two, you'll be able to buy a DVD recorder that has NTSC, ATSC and QAM tuners all in one box, which might be more convenient for you. Per FCC mandate, after March 1, all new devices that can receive over-the-air TV must have ATSC tuners, and many of these will probably have QAM as well.

Venturing a guess, I would say that it because this thing is only an HDTV tuner and doesn't process SD at all, either off the air or from cable. Comcast must be somehow multiplexing ATSC and NTSC stuff on the same cable rather than broadcasting all the channels in HD format with the SD channels content shown in 4:3 with sidebars like the OTA HD stations do for SD content.
Comcast in our area (and many others around the country based on numerous experiences reported in this forum) has implemented analog-digital simulcast (ADS) of all of the analog NTSC channels (typically channels 2-99). The digital equivalents of the original analog channels here are found in the 70's, 80's, 90's and 100's ranges if using a non-Comcast QAM tuner like the 260, or the older 451, or the built-in QAM tuners on HDTVs and SDTVs.

A Comcast STB remaps the digital channel numbers back to the equivalent analog channel numbers so the user experience is the same. A user with QAM has to cross-reference the native QAM digital channels back to the familar analog channels manually, by keeping a cross reference list for example.

So, it is very likely that the SD digital channels are available, but not with the familiar channel numbers when using a QAM tuner. Comcast could be encrypting any channels beyond Limited Basic ($13/month here), but so far we can see all of the expanded basic channels and all of the OTA-equivalent HDTV channels with a QAM tuner.

Good information, thanks! Does antennanet.org show that these are your only stations? Or are you doing better than they say?

Antennaweb says I will only get ch3-wcax analog. I do. Says I won't get any digitals. I pick up 8 other analogs (2 local, 6 distant) none are really watchable. I get one digital solid, all the time (ch13-wvny at only 10 kw! 30 mi), one watchable sometimes (ch53 wcax), two others I get a lock but not watchable (drop-outs).

These two were actually decent and watchable when our January weather was mild (30F +), and I had just recently hooked up antenna, but for last three weeks with temps always <15F and single digits most time, not getting them. Will be interesting to see if they come back with warmer weather.

So, fact is that I get one solid HD OTA channel (ABC) and another sometimes (CBS) is a real bonus, since we have no other access to major networks HD content through local cable or dish.

2 Questions:

1. Will the DTB-H260F display "clear qam" channels from my CATV Provider? I'm told that any broadcast networks that can be received as OTA HD MUST be carried "clear qam" on my cable system.

2. How does channel remapping work? I'd like any HD channels to map over their SD counterpart. 2,4,5,7 & 13 would show up as HD instead as some crazy high number like my HD cable box did. We never watched HD because of this!!!

Thanks,

Roveer

1. Yes, you should be able to pick up "OTA" channels in the clear. Some markets encrypt those channels, though.

2. The "clear" channels do not remap.

Check the Sumsung website and saw no new HDTV STB for 07 but they will have 2 new DVD with NTSC / ATSC tuner, built in QAM ?? I am sure it will have it too. There was no spec out yet. There alot of new TV's coming for 07 also. No info if the DTB-D260F will have the new 6th Gen chip ( Currently 5th Gen chip ) or not but it will still be in production for 07. Didn't know Samsung makes refrigerators too, they have one with built in 10.4" touch/ TV screen you can remove the screen and put in another room to watch TV. MSRP of $3,500.00.

Didn't know Samsung makes refrigerators too, they have one with built in 10.4" touch/ TV screen you can remove the screen and put in another room to watch TV. MSRP of $3,500.00.

I saw some at Costco Home the other day. very nice, and expensive.

jay

I picked up one of these DTB-H260F's at BB and I am stunned at how clear and beautiful the picture is. I never would have imagined that OTA TV could look like this, esp. given where I live. I'm in the TX hill country northwest of Austin and with a Terk HDTVs in my attic I'm getting 7 stations (Fox, ABC, NBC, CBS, CW, & 2 PBS) from Austin with no drop outs.

Being new to this STB "thing", I do have a setup related question. How do I connect my antenna and Time Warner basic cable to the box? Can I use a combiner/diplexer device or will an a/b switch be necessary?

edit: I think I should have asked - Can I combine the two signals? But maybe I've discovered the answer (no). The thing that has had me puzzled is why there is a channel scan option for "Air+Cable". I took that to mean both signals could be feed into the box at the same time. I hooked up the box to my cable feed and it found lots of channels but the only ones that would display a picture were the same local channels I get OTA. I suppose that means the others are scrambled? I want to keep the basic analog cable for the time being so I guess I'll just run that through my VCR.

The tuner is designed to decode digital signals encoded to the ATSC standard. Besides the digital encoding, the ATSC spec also provides for 2 transmission standards, 8VSB for OTA and QAM for cable. If your cable is providing either or both of these standards, you can connect it and decode it in the tuner. I don't believe it is possible to combine an antenna (8VSB) signal and cable (QAM) signal from two different sources before inputing into the unit. At least I don't think it is easy.

scott s.
.

[...]I don't believe it is possible to combine an antenna (8VSB) signal and cable (QAM) signal from two different sources before inputing into the unit. At least I don't think it is easy.

scott s.


This is exactly what I was hoping to do. Anyone know for sure whether it's possible? RS sells a splitter/combiner that can combine a Satellite feed with an Antenna signal.

Another option would be to buy this little remote-controlled A/B coax cable switch that RS sells as well. I'd rather go with option "A" though.

I guess the first step would be for me to find one of these things in stock somewhere so I can actually buy it. :)

This is exactly what I was hoping to do. Anyone know for sure whether it's possible? RS sells a splitter/combiner that can combine a Satellite feed with an Antenna signal.

Another option would be to buy this little remote-controlled A/B coax cable switch that RS sells as well. I'd rather go with option "A" though.

I guess the first step would be for me to find one of these things in stock somewhere so I can actually buy it. :)

I know there have been combiners but I think are designed to take one or two single signals and mix with a feed.

Would pick plan B.

The only thing I would add is in the master channel chart. A single indicator of SIGNAL/NO SIGNAL/ENCRIPTED.

There should be a better option, but no, A/B switch for OTA and Cable.

This is exactly what I was hoping to do. Anyone know for sure whether it's possible? RS sells a splitter/combiner that can combine a Satellite feed with an Antenna signal.

Another option would be to buy this little remote-controlled A/B coax cable switch that RS sells as well. I'd rather go with option "A" though.

I guess the first step would be for me to find one of these things in stock somewhere so I can actually buy it. :)


They do not sell or anyone that makes a splitter/combiners for Cable and Antenna siginal. Yes they make combiners for Satellite and antenna but that was for the older satellite systems, but the newer satellite system you can not combine the satellite and antenna now must have a seperate line to TV. Cable use some of the antenna frequency same as newer satellite systems. So use option "B" as option "A" is a no way to do.

The tuner is designed to decode digital signals encoded to the ATSC standard. Besides the digital encoding, the ATSC spec also provides for 2 transmission standards, 8VSB for OTA and QAM for cable. If your cable is providing either or both of these standards, you can connect it and decode it in the tuner. I don't believe it is possible to combine an antenna (8VSB) signal and cable (QAM) signal from two different sources before inputing into the unit. At least I don't think it is easy.

scott s.
.
Cable system occupies essentially EVERY VHF/UHF channel position,
which would overwhelm the weak OTA signal if you used a combiner.

There should be a better option, but no, A/B switch for OTA and Cable.

Can anyone recommend an A/B switch other than the remote-controlled box I saw on RS-online. I was kind of hoping to get a cheap little manual switch, but I can't find one.

Thanks.

"Their HD training is focused on telling people that they need buy DirecTV or hook up to the local cable system for HD. "

Even at Costco there are signs by all the TVs saying that you need to subscribe to either cable or satellite in order to view HD content. No mention of OTA.

Jay

I agree. This implies that home buyer have only two choices when purchasing TVs.
What's worse, try to find a TV, (NOT a monitor), that has a dual tuner, OTA and PIP in one 'package'. Also, the current trend of PIP does NOT mean you can view two OTA stations simultaneously.

Sorry about putting these comments on this thread, but when I read the above thread on tuners...

What's worse, try to find a TV, (NOT a monitor), that has a dual tuner, OTA and PIP in one 'package'. Also, the current trend of PIP does NOT mean you can view two OTA stations simultaneously.

Sorry about putting these comments on this thread, but when I read the above thread on tuners...

I think it's OK to post these types of comment here. I mean, to take full advantage of the current PIP TV's that have a single OTA tuner, you would need a STB like the Samsung. So, the STB is not only a solution for those who have no ATSC tuner, but also for those who wish to put their PIP to use.

Jay

Can anyone recommend an A/B switch other than the remote-controlled box I saw on RS-online. I was kind of hoping to get a cheap little manual switch, but I can't find one.

Thanks.Believe it or not but I've seen them at LOWES and HomeDepot.

OK, first: Mea culpa, mea culpa, mea culpa.

As they say on the floor of Congress, I wish to revise and extend my earlier remarks for the record.
:]

Due to operator error (me !), I was getting a greatly reduced number of OTA channels with the Samsung as compared to the ATSC tuner in my TV. Well, now I'm getting about the same (one less in one direction and one additional in the other).

As others have lamented, it's too bad they limited the on-screen menus to just the component out, as every time I change the direction of the antenna, I have to unplug my component input to my TV and plug in the Samsung and rerun the channel search, then swap the component cables back out again, and then re-connect to one of my TiVos. It's a pain in the A$$.

A real shame.

every time I change the direction of the antenna, I have to unplug my component input to my TV and plug in the Samsung and rerun the channel search

You don't have to do a channel scan every time you rotate the antenna. It's true that a complete channel scan always erases the previous channel list. However, you can scan for a channel individually by entering its actual channel number instead of the re-mapped virtual channel number. (For example, my "channel 4" actually has its digital signal on channel 59, so I would enter 59 instead of 4.) If the unit detects a signal on the physical channel number that you enter, it picks up the virtual channel number from the PSIP data, memorizes it, and the on-screen display changes to that number. The unit remembers the total set of channels that you've found, until you do a complete channel scan.

I watch stations from three cities in different directions. When I rebuild my channel list, which is seldom if ever actually necessary, I start by pointing the antenna towards one city and doing a complete channel scan. Then I rotate the antenna towards city #2, and add its stations one by one using their physical channel numbers. Finally, I rotate the antenna towards city #3, and do likewise.

You don't have to do a channel scan every time you rotate the antenna. It's true that a complete channel scan always erases the previous channel list. However, you can scan for a channel individually by entering its actual channel number instead of the re-mapped virtual channel number. (For example, my "channel 4" actually has its digital signal on channel 59, so I would enter 59 instead of 4.) If the unit detects a signal on the physical channel number that you enter, it picks up the virtual channel number from the PSIP data, memorizes it, and the on-screen display changes to that number. The unit remembers the total set of channels that you've found, until you do a complete channel scan.

I watch stations from three cities in different directions. When I rebuild my channel list, which is seldom if ever actually necessary, I start by pointing the antenna towards one city and doing a complete channel scan. Then I rotate the antenna towards city #2, and add its stations one by one using their physical channel numbers. Finally, I rotate the antenna towards city #3, and do likewise.


I second what jtbell said , Make sure you note where your antenna point to and the real DT channel number is for example like ch 4 is really on ch 59. Also make sure you have a master list made so if someone go and do hit scan search and loose everything then all have to do repoint the antenna and reenter the numbers.

To bad the unit is not like my Polarid which has 2 way of doing channel scan on the DT side #1 scan missing channel ( it don't wipe out your already channel list , just add the missing channel to the current list) #2 range scan ( can do 2-69 which will wipe out the list if already have one or I can just do the range that DT is really on like 59-59 to get channel 4 and if I get a lock on it then it will add to channel list or I just keep moving the antenna then do a narrow range scan again ) But I can't just enter 59 to get ch4 I have to do range scan first to get it on the list :(. I wish someone from Samsang read this and make impovement to the D260-F unit.

I got this box and am trying to use it with a Sony component video in. But I notice the size of the picture is too large when using component video. So I miss a few parts of the picture on the right and left sides. On S-Video the size is correct (but no graphics). The complete picture is showing fine.
Any help how to fix this for the component video outputs is appreciated!

I think it's OK to post these types of comment here. I mean, to take full advantage of the current PIP TV's that have a single OTA tuner, you would need a STB like the Samsung. So, the STB is not only a solution for those who have no ATSC tuner, but also for those who wish to put their PIP to use.

Jay
Unfortunately, the definition of PIP has changed. On the earlier Sony XBR's you could view two stations simultaneously, visually scroll through one display, select one of the displayed stations and switch that station with the 'main' display ALL FROM ONE REMOTE. As far as I know, the Samsung LN-S5296D is the only one with this feature...

AVSnewB, what screen aspect ratio do you have on your TV? 4x3? 16x9?

Enter the Samsung's menu system. Go to "Settings", highlight "Screen Format", press the Enter button, then highlight the format of your TV, whether it be 16x9 or 4x3, and then press "Enter".

Hope this helps.

AVSnewB, what kind of TV do you have? 4x3? 16x9?

Enter the Samsung's menu system. Go to "Settings", highlight "Screen Format", press the Enter button, then highlight the format of your TV, whether it be 16x9 or 4x3, and then press "Enter".

Hope this helps.
Sorry I was not giving details. I did set it at 4x3 AR, I have a Sony KD-32FS100 with component input. It is using full mode, with regular 480i stations. But when I view the immage through the component video it cuts a little from the left and right sides. I do not see a black band, rather just do not see the entire immage. With S-Video I can see the complete immage in the normal way. Is it possible my box has a problem, or the TV? Has anyone had such a case? Setting of the switches at the back are 480i and component.
Thanks!

Sorry I was not giving details. I did set it at 4x3 AR, I have a Sony KD-32FS100 with component input. It is using full mode, with regular 480i stations. But when I view the immage through the component video it cuts a little from the left and right sides. I do not see a black band, rather just do not see the entire immage. With SVHS I can see the complete immage in the normal way. Is it possible my box has a problem, or the TV? Has anyone had such a case? Setting of the switches at the back are 480i and component.
Thanks!
I recall you can also "zoom", "full" or "normal" the picture after you set the aspect.
Don't have the manual in front of me right now to tell you where to find it, sorry.

I recall you can also "zoom", "full" or "normal" the picture after you set the aspect.
Don't have the manual in front of me right now to tell you where to find it, sorry.
Yes, I know about the zoom function. I am not using it in the zoom mode, but the "full" mode with 3:4 aspect ratio, yet when connected to the component inputs of my Sony, the picture gets trimmed from both sides. Its about 3-4% loss but it can be annoying. My impression is that this product has been put together and sent to market in a rush, few issues are not yet quite finilized. Another example: i can no longer change the settings of the ClosedCaption. It will not show service 1, service 2, etc. anymore, for which you can change text size etc., just the CC1, CC2... and Text1 Text2 .... few other annoying things (sounds drops for short times on some channels) which could be from the cable provider (Comcast) side. But the most annoying is to have the picture trimmed while in component mode (I have to use the 480i setting as my TV wont sync to anything else).
Just wonder if anyone has seen this too?
By the way, I see a USB port which the manual says its for "service". I wonder if anyone knows of ways to access this for, perhaps, some "tuning" of the above size of the picture, for example, or to update the firmware, etc. How will the update of the firmware is to work by the way? Could it be done by the user? Any newer firmware anyone knows about?
Thanks!

By the way, I see a USB port which the manual says its for "service". I wonder if anyone knows of ways to access this for, perhaps, some "tuning" of the above size of the picture, for example, or to update the firmware, etc. How will the update of the firmware is to work by the way? Could it be done by the user? Any newer firmware anyone knows about?
Thanks!
Since any update by the user would void the warranty, I'd say leave it alone. There is no newer firmware to upgrade to, at least not yet.

Since any update by the user would void the warranty, I'd say leave it alone. There is no newer firmware to upgrade to, at least not yet.
Where is your scientific curiousity? Sure I would like to experiment with this box if I can/know how! Warrenty? Oh please... useless.
Cheers!

AVSnewB,

For your first experiment with the USB port may I suggest you hook a USB external HD drive up to it and see if you can use the drive to record HD.

I have been tempted to stick my USB Mem stick into it but have not done it yet.

I actually connected my Pioneer PDP-4340HD Plasma that uses an extrernal media box and two cables for connection up to my SAMSUNG SIRT451 just to see it it would work and it did - sort of. By just using the DVI cable in between the Pioneer Plasma and the 451 I was able to get a picture from the 451 up on the Plasma but the picture was limited to the Upper left of the Plasma screen and the rest of the Plasma screen was black , I guess I needed some kind of scaler.

-DoNB2

AVSnewB,

For your first experiment with the USB port may I suggest you hook a USB external HD drive up to it and see if you can use the drive to record HD.

I have been tempted to stick my USB Mem stick into it but have not done it yet.

I actually connected my Pioneer PDP-4340HD Plasma that uses an extrernal media box and two cables for connection up to my SAMSUNG SIRT451 just to see it it would work and it did - sort of. By just using the DVI cable in between the Pioneer Plasma and the 451 I was able to get a picture from the 451 up on the Plasma but the picture was limited to the Upper left of the Plasma screen and the rest of the Plasma screen was black , I guess I needed some kind of scaler.

-DoNB2
DoNB2,
Interesting suggestion. However, I wonder what do you think if we first get there a computer (PC) connection? The PC is supposed to detect "new devices" for which it knows the drivers of. I do not have a USB disk, but I do have a USB memory - once there how do we get to tell the box to record anything on it? This box must have some secret keys/codes to activate some setup menu which otherwise will be hidden from view (e.g. as with DVDs which used to have some key codes to get them be region free, etc. other examples).
Still for now my first problem is to get the component connection at 480i appear full picture on my TV, and not have it trimmed (I am not in the zoom mode, have it set at full mode using 4:3 and stations which broadcast at 480i, 4:3). This will allow me to see the graphics (which are hidden on the S-Video). Other options is of course to buy yet another gudget and convert component into S-Video, perhaps using a higher resolution, such as 480p or 780p. This will show the graphics, and S-vidoo input is good enough to present a clear picture of them as they are with the component input (my Sony picture is very nice-I bought it last year, Sep, for $450 just before the new Sony tube digital TV (not HDTV, just 480i) went on sale at CC, as I did not want to decide at the time on a more expensive model and my old TV died so needed a TV. The new Sony DTV at the time would have been priced $150 higher, only to have OTA tuner, not QAM, and had less connection options for A/V).

Any thoughts on anything above?

Cheers!

AVSnewB,

So your tv is a 4x3 not 16x9 correct?

And you are using component and 480i out of the Samsung?

And what you see is the (Left/right side portion) being cut off of the 16X9 image on your 4X3 screen?

Sorry if I am messed up.

-DonB2

AVSnewB,

So your tv is a 4x3 not 16x9 correct?

And you are using component and 480i out of the Samsung?

And what you see is the (Left/right side portion) being cut off of the 16X9 image on your 4X3 screen?

Sorry if I am messed up.

-DonB2
DonB2,

Your first two points are correct. The last one is not, i.e. I do not see "the (Left/right side portion) being cut off of the 16X9 image on your 4X3 screen". The broadcast image is a 4x3 not a 16x9. I see the 4x3 image cut on a 4x3 TV using a 4x3 "Full" mode with 480i, component. On S-Video the image is complete.

Thanks!

You don't have to do a channel scan every time you rotate the antenna. It's true that a complete channel scan always erases the previous channel list. However, you can scan for a channel individually by entering its actual channel number instead of the re-mapped virtual channel number.
I don't need to resort to that, as all the channels in my area input as the derivative of the analog channels quite nicely. However, with 17 channels in one direction and 16 channels in the other, if I did not rerun the channel scan, every other channel would be "No Signal", as I attempt to locate the proper channel by rotating through the channel line-up.

Directly inputting the channel would not always work effectively without the on-screen display, as many channels do not have a translucent channel indicator in the corner, and even those that do don't display them during commercials, so I could not always be sure if I'm at the correct channel.

AVSnewB ,

That is not good. I would not be happy with that either. I wonder if you could get anything out of Samsung support concerning this.

-DonB2

Unfortunately, the definition of PIP has changed. On the earlier Sony XBR's you could view two stations simultaneously, visually scroll through one display, select one of the displayed stations and switch that station with the 'main' display ALL FROM ONE REMOTE. As far as I know, the Samsung LN-S5296D is the only one with this feature...

I know. I own a Sony with PIP. The Samsung LN-S5296D PIP only lets you view OTA and another source such as a DVD player using the PIP, it does not have a dual tuner.

Jay

I went looking for one of these at Best Buy today. Found one unit on display; no signs or boxes. I thought, "Oh, yeah, it sure is small", then picked it up and thought, "And lightweight, too." Then I went to check the connectionse on the rear, and saw the reason for the light weight: no jacks or electronics, just the metal case. :confused:

The next closest Best Buy had the same thing, just one empty case on display.

AVSnewB ,

That is not good. I would not be happy with that either. I wonder if you could get anything out of Samsung support concerning this.

-DonB2
DonB2,

Well I will try to call support. Have 30 days to return to CC for an exchange/refund, or I may look for the PHD-101 (ATI chip set). Of course it could be my Sony TV (under warrenty/extended service plan). I usually hate to have to go through service/support. In most cases, its useless and all they can tell you is to send the box to them. In which case, I would opt for a refund through CC. By the way, I paid $139+tax since I had a $40 coupon.

Cheers!

Probably wrong but does the Sony have adjustments. Since most of these are basically super monitors are there any width height position adjustments?

Probably wrong but does the Sony have adjustments. Since most of these are basically super monitors are there any width height position adjustments?
Nighttime,
This is a very basic Sony 32 inch tube TV, got it cheap at $450. It provides a good picture, good sound, and reasonable A/V in/out. You can only change the tilt of the picture (+/- few degrees) to get it straight if it is a bit off. No adjustoments in the menu for other dimenssions. I am sure if I open it I could do something, for the component input side, but I do not want to do so, if my box is bad. The PHD-101 box seems to do similar as the Samsung (but has the NTSC tuner added). May not be that good for OTA as the Samsung is, but I just need it for QAM clear cable.
Thanks!

AVSnewB:

I've noticed the same sort of problem that you're experiencing with my 4x3 TV. It's probably the tuner's issue.

I don't suggest drastic steps like taking the box apart, as who knows if you'll ever get the box working again. You can always output through the composite/S-Video (for 4x3 stuff) and component (for widescreen programming) outputs simultaneously without problems.

There are units from Panasonic, Samsung, and LG coming out very soon with ATSC tuners and DVD recorders built into one unit. You might want to check 'em out.

I grew tired of waiting for ******* to fill my order, so I finally pulled the trigger today and got a returned model from trading city on eBay. We'll see if she works...

That was weird....I said O-N-E-C-A-L-L and it blocked it out.

AVSnewB:

I've noticed the same sort of problem that you're experiencing with my 4x3 TV. It's probably the tuner's issue.

I don't suggest drastic steps like taking the box apart, as who knows if you'll ever get the box working again. You can always output through the composite/S-Video (for 4x3 stuff) and component (for widescreen programming) outputs simultaneously without problems.

There are units from Panasonic, Samsung, and LG coming out very soon with ATSC tuners and DVD recorders built into one unit. You might want to check 'em out.
mikemikeb,
Thanks for confirming you had the same problem. I am indeed using the S-Video of my TV to view programming. It is annoying still since the S-Video does not have graphics so I do not even know what channels I am tuning to, and there are quite a lot. Between commercials and guessing the numeric numbers (i.e. 42-2) to what they map to on the component, and not having any indication when using S-Video, makes things not that easy. This looks like a not totally finished product. Maybe Samsung worried the ATI chipset (e.g. check the PHD-101 tuner using this) may compete with them hence they wanted quickly to put this box out. I do not know if a firmware can help fix this as well as some other annoying problems. Do not want to take the box apart, just explore the USB connection by connecting a PC port there - when I get the time. Or I may just return it to CC within the 30 days return back period.
Cheers!

Nighttime,
This is a very basic Sony 32 inch tube TV, got it cheap at $450. It provides a good picture, good sound, and reasonable A/V in/out. You can only change the tilt of the picture (+/- few degrees) to get it straight if it is a bit off. No adjustoments in the menu for other dimenssions. I am sure if I open it I could do something, for the component input side, but I do not want to do so, if my box is bad. The PHD-101 box seems to do similar as the Samsung (but has the NTSC tuner added). May not be that good for OTA as the Samsung is, but I just need it for QAM clear cable.
Thanks!

Got you! makes sense now.

Running a 32" Olevia 332H. Has a lot of nice adjustments for analog signals.

Good luck!

mikeikeb,
You recommended to a previous poster that:
"There are units from Panasonic, Samsung, and LG coming out very soon with ATSC tuners and DVD recorders built into one unit. You might want to check 'em out."

Do you have any additional info or links to these units (projected $$ and availability)? I've been searching the manufacturers' websites and can't seem to find any details. Are we talking 1000s or 100s and weeks or months? I'm ready to take the dive for a HDTV tuner to get all of the OTA stations here in Houston, and finding a reasonable tuner with OTA recording would be ideal. Otherwise I'm aiming for the Samsung H260F (with it's lack of menu output to s-video - which I will need for my current TV) coupled into my s-vhs vcr for the time being. Of course, that assumes I can find the Samsung. All the retailers here and online seem to never have them on hand.

I started out on Brighthouse cable with my H260F, and then moved to OTA via a very cheap unpowered indoor antenna, which worked fine for a while. But over the last two weeks the signal's been unreliable. So bad last night we gave up and went to SD for the evening. Tonight I'll be hooking the cable back up, which should avoid the signal dropouts though we lose the guide information. Ah, well, not a big deal.

The really odd thing was that I couldn't seem to get the signal strength meter to come up. I followed the directions on page 27 of the manual, but it never seemed to actually display the bar graph. It just showed a "return" option. But I do remember being able to see the signal strength when I first connected the antenna, so I must be doing something really stupid here. Any suggestions?

Called Samsung support in regard to the cropping of the picture when using my 480i TV component inputs. Got passed to second level support - the guy could not help. Suggested to arrange for me to send the box for them to take a look (no thanks I can return it to CC). Also asked about why I do not see anymore the closedcaption service1,service2 etc. mode (just CC1, CC2 and text1, text2 etc. which do not allow other than default settings for the CC text size/color). Second level support did not know why.
But, when trying to register my box on line, and find the support phone number, the menu gave me two options for the STB: a DTB-H260F and a DTB-H261F model. So I have asked the second level support what is this H261F box and he claimed its the same as the 260 but a 2007 model. I wonder if indeed it is "the same" and they have not fixed a few bugs (hardware not just firmware) in their initial edition. He said this box should be available begining of Mar. I may want to exchange what I got at circuit city with a 261F box and see if it still does the cropping and does not allow change the text sizes for closedcaption.
Just thought to share this with you in case you consider to buy one now. Look for the 261F model.
Cheers!

But, when trying to register my box on line, and find the support phone number, the menu gave me two options for the STB: a DTB-H260F and a DTB-H261F model. So I have asked the second level support what is this H261F box and he claimed its the same as the 260 but a 2007 model. I wonder if indeed it is "the same" and they have not fixed a few bugs (hardware not just firmware) in their initial edition. He said this box should be available begining of Mar. Cheers!

Probably just cheaper! (LOL!) :D One would hope they'd fix a few bugs! But fixing bugs doesn't always generate revenue, otherwise companies like Microsoft wouldn't release product with thousands of known defects.

But fixing bugs doesn't always generate revenue, otherwise companies like Microsoft wouldn't release product with thousands of known defects.
The more bugs there are, the more bugs there are to fix, and the more revenue can be generated from fixing them.

Do you have any additional info or links to these units (projected $$ and availability)? I've been searching the manufacturers' websites and can't seem to find any details. Are we talking 1000s or 100s and weeks or months?
The new tuners aren't going to be sold until March at the earliest, when DVD recorders with analog tuners must have digital tuners in them as well. Don't expect the new units to be mentioned on their websites until then, because that might affect sales of the current line of DVD recorders.

Expect availability to be somewhat less than the current supply of DVD recorders, especially in the first few monts after their introduction.

More info:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=786948
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=803388
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=791417
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=783471

I'm ready to take the dive for a HDTV tuner to get all of the OTA stations here in Houston, and finding a reasonable tuner with OTA recording would be ideal. Otherwise I'm aiming for the Samsung H260F (with it's lack of menu output to s-video - which I will need for my current TV) coupled into my s-vhs vcr for the time being. Of course, that assumes I can find the Samsung. All the retailers here and online seem to never have them on hand.

I owned a SIRT451 for 5 months and sold it online for exactly the price I paid for it. IMHO, the demand will still be there for this tuner if you buy the H260F now (if you can find it), and sell it when a DVD Recorder with ATSC tuner comes out, (hopefully it will be reasonably priced).

It is true this is a pain to set up without a component input, but there is a way to see the menus if you have an RCA input, just use the Green jack which will input a black and white signal to the RCA input. Once you have the stations set up, switch to your S-Video input.

The NEW DTB-H261F I was told will be available in March is tuner only, without DVD. I suspect the price will drop to under $100 given that tuners with DVD recording will be available. If you only need the tuner it is better to wait few more weeks. This explains also the shortage of the H260F units at CC and BB. They are waiting to get the newer cheaper model released this year. The second level support told me the 261F will be "the same" as the 260F but I suspect they will fix a few issues and perhaps update the firmware over their first released model. If you just want a tuner I think one should wait for the 261F not buy the 260F. I am returning mine to CC to get the newer model.

The NEW DTB-H261F I was told will be available in March is tuner only, without DVD. I suspect the price will drop to under $100 given that tuners with DVD recording will be available. If you only need the tuner it is better to wait few more weeks. This explains also the shortage of the H260F units at CC and BB. They are waiting to get the newer cheaper model released this year. The second level support told me the 261F will be "the same" as the 260F but I suspect they will fix a few issues and perhaps update the firmware over their first released model. If you just want a tuner I think one should wait for the 261F not buy the 260F. I am returning mine to CC to get the newer model.
What makes you believe it will be less expensive?

hi, if i may ask, does that put you in the Hagerstown market? Thats
where i am and it seems like your description could me my area. I'm seriously researching whether I can sufficiently benefit from a stb (specifically the Samsung) and get my current stations from dc/baltimore (50,20,45, etc) i have a roof mount vhf/uhf. I must sheepishly admit to not knowing much about what i have, but with it i do get agood signal from dc/baltimore even though I'm approximately 60 air miles away or more. I'd be interested in hearing what success you may have had. thanks

New to the site/HD and was hoping for some help, or the right direction. Sorry if its a little long...just have a number of things on my mind I could not find by searching...or the light bulb didn't go off when reading these threads.

I just bought the DTB-H260F from an online refurb shop since I could not find any in the retail stores (could not wait!)

It has come in and from what I can get so far, it works pretty good...I do have some questions I hope someone can help me with.

I am connecting using my TW/Comcast basic cable and can get some channels but not all.

Can someone let me know if I configured my tuner correctly? I scanned using STD (I've tried HRC and IRC, but have no clue what they are and each time I do this, I have to delete all the channels that are picked up but not coming through)

I did come across a page where a user listed the channels he could get (not sure if using the same tuner) - I tried the same channels, but it came blank on mine. I do get channels, but they don't match his list. For example I get a number of channels on 77 (77-2 is Bravo) - Is there a channel guide out there for Houston so I can manually add?

Is there a reason I can find ESPNClassic, but not ESPN? I don't get all the basic channels but I get some Pay Per View?

I have a projector, so before I knew about these tuners, I bought a DVD-Recorder...would the best option be to split my cable to get my normal channels through the DVD recorder's tuner and the Samsung tuner for HD local? (the projector can handle multiple sources so I have the DVD going through component and the Samsung via HDMI)? What if I wanted to record the HD stuff onto DVD (I'm a Heros fan!)...could that be done while still allowing me to get all the channels (cable + HD)?

Thanks for any help! If there is any other info I need to provide, please let me know.

I am connecting using my TW/Comcast basic cable and can get some channels but not all.

Can someone let me know if I configured my tuner correctly? I scanned using STD (I've tried HRC and IRC, but have no clue what they are and each time I do this, I have to delete all the channels that are picked up but not coming through)

Yes that is correct. Don't forget, this is a digital tuner, not analog! You won't get those cable channels through the H260F, just tune those through your TV's tuner or through a VCR or set-top box. The H260F is great for those of us wanting the open QAM local hi-def channels

I did come across a page where a user listed the channels he could get (not sure if using the same tuner) - I tried the same channels, but it came blank on mine. I do get channels, but they don't match his list. For example I get a number of channels on 77 (77-2 is Bravo) - Is there a channel guide out there for Houston so I can manually add?

Is there a reason I can find ESPNClassic, but not ESPN? I don't get all the basic channels but I get some Pay Per View?

Do you normally get the regular basic cable channels, say 2 -99? Or is it a limited package? Just curious if there is any type of a filter on the line that would limit your channels.

I have a projector, so before I knew about these tuners, I bought a DVD-Recorder...would the best option be to split my cable to get my normal channels through the DVD recorder's tuner and the Samsung tuner for HD local? (the projector can handle multiple sources so I have the DVD going through component and the Samsung via HDMI)? What if I wanted to record the HD stuff onto DVD (I'm a Heros fan!)...could that be done while still allowing me to get all the channels (cable + HD)?

Not knowing what type of DVD-Recorder it is, I'd venture to say yes. Run one line to the Recorder and another to the H260F. Not so sure you can run them all through each other though.

Thanks for the reply Big,

Yes, when I hook up my DVD recorder, I get my normal standard cable channels (ESPN, TNT, etc) but not the premium (HBO, Showtime, etc)

As for a filter - not sure. I have cable + internet, but no digital or HD (TW never gave me a digital box)

Thanks again - if anyone has a channel guide for Houston based on similar settings that would be great, so I know I am not missing anything.

The NEW DTB-H261F I was told will be available in March is tuner only, without DVD. I suspect the price will drop to under $100 given that tuners with DVD recording will be available. If you only need the tuner it is better to wait few more weeks. This explains also the shortage of the H260F units at CC and BB. They are waiting to get the newer cheaper model released this year. The second level support told me the 261F will be "the same" as the 260F but I suspect they will fix a few issues and perhaps update the firmware over their first released model. If you just want a tuner I think one should wait for the 261F not buy the 260F. I am returning mine to CC to get the newer model.
In the bigger scheme of things (like when broadcasters start using MPEG-4 for video encoding instead of the current MPEG-2 format) I can't imagine the 261F model will be significantly better than the 260F. I think my wallet and me will wait this one out.

NEW DTB-H261F

I wonder what it will have/not have?

Maybe do away with QAM? That would solve the A/B switch confusion issue for Samsung.

Maybe do away with Svidio and composite out - This will solve the On screen menu issues for Samsung.

I just find it frustrating when the answer from Samsung is "Send it back".

What good is sending it back if the problem is built in to the design to begin with?


BTW- I notice in Composite out that I can not see the channel number I am entering when changing a channel.

I have added that maybe the new model will have better fringe reception. Not having good long distance reception with the Samsung DTB-H260F was one of the reasons posters back around Thanksgiving were thinking that it was hard to find a unit on the shelves. Posters thought maybe Samsung had pulled it off the shelves until they were able to get it to receive fringe as well as multichannel better.

-DonB2

In the bigger scheme of things (like when broadcasters start using MPEG-4 for video encoding instead of the current MPEG-2 format) I can't imagine the 261F model will be significantly better than the 260F. I think my wallet and me will wait this one out.

OTA broadcasters will still have to broadcast MPEG-2. They must be ATSC compliant, which defines the standard as MPEG-2. Satalite broadcasters, on the other hand, can do what they please, and DirecTV is switching to MPEG-4. So any OTA tuner released now will be perfectly fine until the US Government mandates another new standard, which wont happen anytime soon going by how fast this current transition is taking. Can you imagine the flak they would get if they imposed a new standard that would make all the current equipment obsolete?

Well, if it doesn't output the menus on the lower outputs, you could set the switch to 480i, and just hook up the luminance (Y) cable of the component signal to a composite input (B&W only) to set the unit up...
Has anyone gotten any variation of this to work ?

If I could get the menu to work, even in B&W, that would be a lot less hassle. I could be sure what channel I'm on, set the aspect ratio, and check the signal strength, then be ready to record.

I plugged the (Y) component cable into the yellow composite video input to my TiVo, but nada, zilch. Black screen. I've yet to try the different switch settings.

OTA broadcasters will still have to broadcast MPEG-2. They must be ATSC compliant, which defines the standard as MPEG-2. Satalite broadcasters, on the other hand, can do what they please, and DirecTV is switching to MPEG-4. So any OTA tuner released now will be perfectly fine until the US Government mandates another new standard, which wont happen anytime soon going by how fast this current transition is taking. Can you imagine the flak they would get if they imposed a new standard that would make all the current equipment obsolete?

no kidding. especially with the howls of indignation that will crescendo when analog broadcasts get turned off. No bureaucrat will have the guts to do that. I do think mpeg4/h.264 would make a lot more sense in terms of conserving bandwidth but no one wants to be whipsawed.

I've yet to try the different switch settings.
That's the issue. With the unit turned off, set the switches to Y/Pb/Pr, and 480i, then turn the unit on and see if that works.

My DTB-H260F signal strength meter works fine for OTA signals. I just noticed that with QAM signals, the signal strength display comes up but the number of bars is always zero. In other words, you get the faint background bars but none of the bars are highlighted. Picture on the TV is excellent and rock solid but signal strength essentially says "no signal". Have any of you connecting to clear QAM seen this? Some additional info: I'm connected to Time Warner Cable in Chapel Hill, NC and my RF signal coming into the STB is about 2 dBmv which I believe is decent.

DrElectron,
Ive noticed the same on my unit. To me it would make no sense to have an active signal strength meter on qam signals...you either have a signal or not, ie you are either getting cable or not. For ota its needed in order to help optimize your antenna orientation. Maybe its just me...hope this helps.

Regards,
Ricky

It would seem to make more since if the QAM signal strength was grayed out or instead displayed 100 percent which is what the Cable is providing.

-DoNB2

rchcah, Thanks for replying. It is good to know that someone else sees the same behavior. However, I would have to say that the signal level is important. Eventhough, QAM is digital signaling, the STB receiver front end that detects the RF is analog and wants to see a certain signal level. That is why some people have posted that they had too much signal and needed to attenuate it for the DTB-H260F. Also, if you run your cable signal through too many splitters, the STB will not work. The net of this is that the 260F should care about QAM signal level and it makes sense that the signal strength should be indicated. So how come our 260Fs don't show it?

That's the issue. With the unit turned off, set the switches to Y/Pb/Pr...
That part was a given, as I have nothing with HDMI.


and 480i, then turn the unit on and see if that works.
Works with my TV, but not with my TiVo.

Dang it.

Auto Scan Antenna - makes sense

Auto Scan Cable - makes sense

Auto Scan Cable and Antenna - does not make sense because you can not merge the two on one input.

If the Samsung had separate inputs 1 for antenna and 1 for Cable it would make sense to me.

What am I missing?

-DonB2

Auto Scan Antenna - makes since

Auto Scan Cable - makes since

Auto Scan Cable and Antenna - does not make since because you can not merge the two on one input.

If the Samsung had separate inputs 1 for antenna and 1 for Cable it would make since to me.

What am I missing?

-DonB2
Well, one obvious thing you are missing is the use of "since" instead of "sense" in your posts.

deleted

yekim54 ,

I corrected my previous post.

-Donb2

"must of" ... [sigh]
The edit button does wonders. Check out my earlier message for an example. :)

I just picked up a dtb-h260f, and it gets good reception. *HOWEVER*, im using it with a 4:3 analog tv, and there are some issues.

The tv has component(480i) inputs that are labeled as colorstream. Using those with the h260f yields a distinct pink cast over everything. All the colors seem to be present, just a huge PINK cast over everything. Tweaking the picture settings on the tv doesnt fix it. Online suggested the green & blue cables were switched, but that gave an inverted image.

SVIDEO looks great, but the aspect ratio settings seem incorrect-everyone is tall/skinny. it looks like its setup for a 16:9 display and i dont see any settings to control this - the controls for the component output dont seem to affect the svideo. The menu is missing on svideo, which i knew about, and can live with.

I have an old dvd player with component video that i tried on the tv and looks ok. Has component video changed in the last couple years that would lead to a pink cast for me? Im going to test on somebody elses projector that has component soon to see if its a bad unit or what.

Any thoughts on whats up with my pink picture? or svideo tall/skinny picture?

I have seen "pinkish" pictures when the blue lead of the component video was not making good contact. Can you try a different component cable?

or svideo tall/skinny picture?

The unit displays S-Video (and RCA) output in full frame, even if the source is 16:9.

I posted some screen captures on post #1030

With component output you can change from full, letterbox, or zoom (whether the source is 16:9 or 4:3)

Hope you find the source of your pink hue situation!

Thanks for the tips. I tested the box on a dell 24" lcd with proper component inputs at work and it gets proper color display, so the box is ok, just a weird incompatibility with the tv.

I still use a stone age steam powered VCR recording from the composite out of the Samsung. All my recordings have a slight "Sepia" brownish tone to them. I think it is the recorder because I observed similar issues recording from my Pioneer ARSC tuner.


-DoN2

ok just saw this thread today.

quick question...if i get this samsung hdtv tuner..will it work with my current tv?

this is my tv specs:
http://reviews.cnet.com/Westinghouse_LVM_37w3_LCD_flat_panel_display_37/4507-6482_7-31948531.html?tag=sub

as u can see...no tv tuner.

and i just got this radio shack tv antenna today:
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2103916&cp=&sr=1&origkw=amplified+vhf%2Fuhf%2Ffm&kw=amplified+vhf%2Fuhf%2Ffm&parentPage=search

i currently also have time warner cable...but lets take that out of the equation...cuz my cable is fubar...and i would like to get free hdtv programs ota from now on.

since my tv doesnt have a rf input/output. i would rf from the radio shack antenna to the samsung rf...then i would either do hdmi or component to my westy tv...correct? will i get a hd tv station this way? yes or no?

ok just saw this thread today.

quick question...if i get this samsung hdtv tuner..will it work with my current tv?

this is my tv specs:
http://reviews.cnet.com/Westinghouse_LVM_37w3_LCD_flat_panel_display_37/4507-6482_7-31948531.html?tag=sub

as u can see...no tv tuner.

and i just got this radio shack tv antenna today:
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2103916&cp=&sr=1&origkw=amplified+vhf%2Fuhf%2Ffm&kw=amplified+vhf%2Fuhf%2Ffm&parentPage=search

i currently also have time warner cable...but lets take that out of the equation...cuz my cable is fubar...and i would like to get free hdtv programs ota from now on.

since my tv doesnt have a rf input/output. i would rf from the radio shack antenna to the samsung rf...then i would either do hdmi or component to my westy tv...correct? will i get a hd tv station this way? yes or no?
Correct, IF you are able to get reception at your location with the antenna you have chosen.

Do any of your neighbors use OTA/antenna reception instead of cable? Can you find out what types of antennas they are using? Indoor or outdoor?

Many folks (like me) get NO reception from an indoor antenna but get adequate reception from a roof-mounted outdoor antenna.

Good luck!

ok just saw this thread today.

quick question...if i get this samsung hdtv tuner..will it work with my current tv?

this is my tv specs:
http://reviews.cnet.com/Westinghouse_LVM_37w3_LCD_flat_panel_display_37/4507-6482_7-31948531.html?tag=sub
as u can see...no tv tuner.
and i just got this radio shack tv antenna today:...

since my tv doesnt have a rf input/output. i would rf from the radio shack antenna to the samsung rf...then i would either do hdmi or component to my westy tv...correct? will i get a hd tv station this way? yes or no?
Depends on how far you are from the broadcast towers, what channels your local stations are on, and so on. Go to www.antennaweb.org and enter your address and see what it has to say for digital stations. if you need more help, I suggest you go to the "Official AVS Antenna Topic" sticky in the Local HDTV Info and Reception forum or start your own thread in this forum. Read the posts in the antenna topic thread and if you need specific help, post your ZIP CODE and your situation - house or condo/apartment, surrounded buildings or trees, and so on.

Your distance from and the directions to the broadcast towers and what channels they digitally broadcast on are all important in determining what antenna setup you need.

well im called best buy to ask if they have the samsung hdtv tuner available...they said none of the store in nyc have them!!! wow...does any1 know where i can get a samsung hdtv now?

anyway...im gonna test the radio indoor antenna tonite with my pioneer 640 dvr:
http://reviews.cnet.com/Pioneer_DVR_640H_S_DVD_recorder_HDD_recorder_with_TV_tuner/4507-6463_7-31977315.html?tag=sub

my dvr 640 is currently connected to my tv thru component. so i would rf the radio shack to my 640. and if i can get good reception...then theoretically it should work samsung hdtv tuner too?

...then i would either do hdmi or component to my westy tv...correct? will i get a hd tv station this way? yes or no?
Yes to the HDMI connection, provisionally yes to the component connection as long as you additionally hook up the RCA sound output from the Sammy tuner to the monitor in addition to a component connection, since component is video only. Plus the above comments about reception, of course.

[QUOTE=vincentnyc]well im called best buy to ask if they have the samsung hdtv tuner available...they said none of the store in nyc have them!!! wow...does any1 know where i can get a samsung hdtv now?

Try this ebay store, search for 'Samsung HD TV': stores dot ebay dot com slash Trading-Circuit

[QUOTE=vincentnyc]well im called best buy to ask if they have the samsung hdtv tuner available...they said none of the store in nyc have them!!! wow...does any1 know where i can get a samsung hdtv now?

Try this ebay store, search for 'Samsung HD TV': stores dot ebay dot com slash Trading-Circuit

no i want to buy it from one of those store and try it out...if it doesnt work..i can return. so ebay is out of the question.

im gonna go try to go to the samsung store tomorrow. will see if they have this unit.

'im gonna go try to go to the samsung store tomorrow. will see if they have this unit."

Wow !! Didn't even know such a store existed!! I guess this is a benifit of the Big Apple.

-DonB2

'im gonna go try to go to the samsung store tomorrow. will see if they have this unit."

Wow !! Didn't even know such a store existed!! I guess this is a benifit of the Big Apple.

-DonB2

yeah...i didnt know it exist either...i think this samsung store recently established this year or last year and is ironically located in the new time warner building at columbus circle in nyc. i guess samsung just want to have a store like the sony style store located near it.

ok just wanna give everyone an update...my cable is back up.

currently i have the radio shack antenna with me. should i even go ahead and go purchase this samsung hdtv tuner? i guess my question is it worth. can any1 in nyc let me know how many channel ota is broadcast in HD all the time?

here is my background...i only have analog cable box(due to undisclosed reason..cough cough...able to receive one of those so called "premium" channel for free) and dont want to switch to digital box or hd box thus losing the privilege of premium channel for free. so right now im watching 480i on my cable box. the only hd content im watching is my ps3 blu-ray movie which can do 1080p on my westy tv.

so my question...should i go ahead and purchase this samsung tuner to watch 1080i/720p content ota? but how many channel will have it for me in nyc and is it all the time? can someone from nyc let me know? thx in advance.

\can any1 in nyc let me know how many channel ota is broadcast in HD all the time?\

Try the New York, NY - OTA (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=275729&goto=lastpost) thread in the Local HDTV Info and Reception forum here.

ok just wanna give everyone an update...my cable is back up.

currently i have the radio shack antenna with me. should i even go ahead and go purchase this samsung hdtv tuner? i guess my question is it worth. can any1 in nyc let me know how many channel ota is broadcast in HD all the time?

so my question...should i go ahead and purchase this samsung tuner to watch 1080i/720p content ota? but how many channel will have it for me in nyc and is it all the time? can someone from nyc let me know? thx in advance.

As jtbell stated, you might want to check into the New York thread and see what folks in your general area are using for antennas and to what success. You might also want to go to www.antennaweb.org and "select" your antenna by inputing your location, etc.,. This will bring up stations that should be receivable...with the correct antenna. The problem is that indoor antennas are not really listed in the chart but the chart will at least let you know what is available. I'm not sure how much "interior design" means to you, but with some engineering/imagination you *can* use a small outdoor antenna indoors. ;) I think checking the New York thread out like jtbell suggested would be a good idea for you. Seeing what folks in your area are using should be a big help for you.

The thing about HD OTA programs is that they are not compressed (at least on the primary digital channel) as satellite and cable signals can be...OTA definitely gives a high quality image if you have good reception. I just got Dishnet w/HD hooked up Monday, but last night I was watching CSI on the 260 tuner. What I am finding, though, in my area is that the channels broadcasting in HD are primarily doing so during primetime, during late-night talkshows, and lots of the sports broadcasts. PBS (at least here in Alabama) normally airs HD content on their primary channel pretty much all day...I tend to sense different image quality at times, though(??).

Remember that currently, digital OTA is in it's testing/preparing/readying/etc. stage in preparation for the wholehog switch from analog to digital broadcasting that will take place in February 2009. For now, many stations are not transmitting full-power, they are testing their towers, xmitters, etc., so what you experience now with digital reception may (and probably will be) very different from what you experience in 2009. It's two years off, but in the mean time you have the option of enjoying OTA HD signals and prepping your setup for '09.

Best wishes on your decision,
Ed

As jtbell stated, you might want to check into the New York thread and see what folks in your general area are using for antennas and to what success. You might also want to go to www.antennaweb.org and "select" your antenna by inputing your location, etc.,. This will bring up stations that should be receivable...with the correct antenna. .........
Ed


the new york thread is about 214 pages long. gonna take sometime reading it.

also went to the www.antenaweb.org. punch in my zipcode and it brought up the tv statsion in red, blue, and violet in uhf about 22 total. and out of the 22...about 7 are dtv.

1. what is red, blue, and violet uhf? why the different color for uhf
2. since it only listed dtv...does that mean hdtv for me? if not...why would i spend money on the samsung hdtv tuner then?

vincentnyc,

I am pretty sure that the Digital on the antennaweb.org site is including both digital and HD. Maybe it would be better if they said ATSC.

I am sure that some of those 7 will be digital and not HD . And also some of the HD will not be HD 24/7.

I would find it very very hard to believe that NYC would not have at least the big three transmitting in HD during Prime Time and also for Lenno and Lettermen.

Hey you are only talking under $200.00 for the Samsung and if you can return it within 30 days all the better.

Some people are paying close to $100.00 per month for their digital Cable bill.

And not everyone will agree with me here but I have found most digital ATSC shows to look better than their analog NTSC counterparts which are available via Cable as in your case or via OTA.

Also keep in mind reception has changed in NYC with the Fall of the Towers. I believe the towers use to have the transmit antennas on the roof. On the other hand some peoples reception has inproved because the towers are now not blocking the Empire State buildings transmitt towers.

That is about all I can tell you other than I could not receive any NYC OTA ATSC stations when visiting Binghamton NY.

Good luck,

DonB2

1. what is red, blue, and violet uhf? why the different color for uhf


The colors indicate different antenna types, depending on the expected strength of the signal from a particular station. The words red-uhf (http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/antenna.aspx?color=R), blue-uhf (http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/antenna.aspx?color=B) etc. in the colored boxes are links. Click on one and you'll see a description of that antenna type. I've made them links in this post, too.

2. since it only listed dtv...does that mean hdtv for me? if not...why would i spend money on the samsung hdtv tuner then?

Your network stations (NBC, CBS, ABS, FOX, PBS, CW, MNT) almost certainly broadcast in HD. I can get all these in HD down here in the South Carolina boondocks, so I'd be astonished if any of them weren't available in HD in the Big Apple! :eek:

You probably also have some independent stations, Univision (Spanish), etc., which probably have digital channels but are not HD.

jtbell .

Vincentnyc must be on his way to the SAMSUNG show room. :)

-DonB2

I just purchased a Sumsung HPS-4253 Plasma, it has tuners, but NOT a QAM tuner. I find out after I get imy TV that my local cable comany sends all of its HD channels over the cable for free. But, because I don't have a QAM tuner, I cannot receive the HD channels for free. In oder to get them without a QAM tuner I would either have to:

(1) use an OTA antenna, but this would only get me 2 or 3 channels as I live too far away from big cities and I am not going to put a big ass antenna on my house; or
(2) get a STB from my cable company which is $20 per month and then pay $15 extra for the 15 HD channels. That would be $450 extra per year and I am not giving the damn cable company one more dollar; or
(3) get my own STB.

So I find out Samsung has this 260F HD tuner that includes a QAM tuner that I can plug into my TV. Interestingly this apparently will also help with my PIP and split screen functions.

The delimma, should I go ahead and get the 260F, it is $190 from CC or BB, and $130 over ebay. But not in stock at either BB or CC near me. I hear they may be coming out with a 261F within the next couple of weeks. Are there other tuners such as this made by other companies? It would sem that other companies would make such a tuner as not all TVs are made with QAM tuners. It may be that most cable compaies do not send HD channels over cable for free, so therefore there isn't a great demand for STB with QAM tuners.

Are there other STBs that are comparable to the 260F? What are they? Should I go ahead and get the 260F or wait on the 261F.

Any thoughts or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

"my local cable comany sends all of its HD channels over the cable for free = get a STB from my cable company which is $20 per month and then pay $15 extra for the 15 HD channels"

So they give them for free but than charge you if you don't have your own QAM tuner?

I am going to guess that Cable gives the Local HD channels for free if you have QAM but you will not get HD Discovery and so on from them without going the $20/month route.

Don't confuse QAM with OTA ATSC they are different, Some older tv's and STB's do OTA ATSC but do not do QAM.

My Pioneer Plasma did both but the QAM was the wrong format that the cable companies appeared to have settled on.



-DonB2

"my local cable comany sends all of its HD channels over the cable for free = get a STB from my cable company which is $20 per month and then pay $15 extra for the 15 HD channels"

So they give them for free but than charge you if you don't have your own QAM tuner?

I am going to guess that Cable gives the Local HD channels for free if you have QAM but you will not get HD Discovery and so on from them without going the $20/month route.

Don't confuse QAM with OTA ATSC they are different, Some older tv's and STB's do OTA ATSC but do not do QAM.

My Pioneer Plasma did both but the QAM was the wrong format that the cable companies appeared to have settled on.



-DonB2

Correct, if you have a QAM tuner you get them for free, all ten that are offered, they are going to begin offering 15 next week, so not sure about the additional new five channels. But, because I don't have a QAM tuner I would have to pay $20 for their box and $15 for the channels. It makes absolutely no sense, I know, I tried to tell them I can understand the box rental, but why should I then have to still pay for the damn HD channels that I can get for free with my own STB oir QAM tuner. I was wasting my time with that CSR.

I guess that I will ge the 260F and try it out. Just wonering if there are other brands that are better or cheaper.

I can't speak 100 percent on this but even the venerable Samsung Sir t451 had QAM. You should be able to get a 451 for less than $200.00.

There are some niggling issues with QAM that come and go on the forums that deal with slight programming issues and incompatibilities that casued boxes to reboot and so on.

In fact some people have noticed this even with the new Samsung.

It has a lot to do with your Cable service provider.

Most all of the other companies STB's do QAM.

I just don't know the specific names of them.

-DonB2

An update on my own problem: I just talked to someone at Sony Tech Support, and he says that with the Sony TV I use, I need to have the Sammy box set at 720, not 1080i. This solves the intermittent flickering interference problem, but NOT the color-to-BW fade. Everything now--without a doubt--points to either a bad box I have, or a software/firmware issue. I have nothing else to go on now; if I contact Samsung, they may try to tell me it's my TV's fault, but the fault CLEARLY lies with something in that box.

Now I have to figure out whether to contact J & R (from whom I bought), Samsung, or perhaps try to buy one from a store here to see if it works...but I'd probably run into a new set of problems with the store management upon trying to return it. I keep hoping to hear something from Samsung about a download that coud correct the problem if I connect a USB cable between the back of the Sammy and my PC.
This post was way back but I can confirm with a unit I just purchased today that the HDMI connection fades the TV to black on 720p or 1080i.

My Sony TV is model number KP-46WT520 and is an older rear projection CRT

This kinda sucks :(

Oh well... still beats having to pay for cable or sat but now I have to buy a component switcher.

ok just wanna give everyone update...went to the samsung store...guess what...it is just a showroom...they dont sell anything in there. wow...all that money for rent and they aren't selling anything...wtf.

i check several places on web...amazon is out of stock, best buy is out of stock, circuitcity is out of stock, jandr told me it is in backorder and to call back in 2 week. this item must be a hotcake...i wonder why samsung wont make more of it????

i would like to buy this unit and test it out to see how well it work with my radioshack indoor antenna...it if works well..i'll keep it...otherwise..i could return it to a place that has a good return policy...

damn shame that i cant find this unit anywhere.

ok just wanna give everyone update...went to the samsung store...guess what...it is just a showroom...they dont sell anything in there. wow...all that money for rent and they aren't selling anything...wtf.

i check several places on web...amazon is out of stock, best buy is out of stock, circuitcity is out of stock, jandr told me it is in backorder and to call back in 2 week. this item must be a hotcake...i wonder why samsung wont make more of it????

i would like to buy this unit and test it out to see how well it work with my radioshack indoor antenna...it if works well..i'll keep it...otherwise..i could return it to a place that has a good return policy...

damn shame that i cant find this unit anywhere.


Try Tweters if you have one. Else basicaly zilch on this and any tuners at any place. Got lucky on mine. Went to BB and they had one.

My local CC manager said they can't keep this item in stock. I decided to use their web site and have it send me an email once it was restocked. I lucked up in less than 24 hours. When I made it to the store, it was a return item. I usually stay away from "out of box" items, but the sales person knocked off $50 and I made a quick decision to buy since it still had the standard 30 day return if needed. Total price was $129.

When I got home, the HD pic settings was set to 480i. All I can figure is someone did not have an HD set or did not read the manual. Needless to say this unit is working perfect. So far....so good. Maybe I need to go play the lotto next weekend and see if my luck holds up!

It really is a great device, minus the HDMI issue. It's amazing how it's able to make that guide...

I tried hooking it up to my cable to get the QAM channels and it found all of them but then there were something like 150 other channels of black screens that I had to delete from the channel manager... except that they still show up in the guide, the channels aren't labled, and there's no program information.

Oh and I had to use CC's website to find one that was in stock an hour away... soonest Amazon would have any was middle of March.

Maybe there will be no more on shelves until they make that upgraded model.

-DonB2

when will the upgraded model will be release? any1 knows what is the best indoor antenna for this device? preferably in an nyc area.

it is just a showroom...

Did they even have a SAMSUNG DTB-H260F or a variant on display?

-DonB2

Not sure what people's feelings are on this, but I got mine at refurbdepot since I could not wait nor could not find one in Houston... Factory refurb unit looked brand new...the only thing that was a minus was the booklet was a photocopy and hard to read. Good thing the PDF is online and I have a color printer.

Looks like circuit city took it off of their web site.

Well I'm at a circuitcity and they have an open box for $159. Will c how this baby do when it gets home.

Also I just return the radio shack yesterday that can pick up VHF/UHF/ and it said it can pick up HDTV signal. My question do I need to but that antenna again or any VHF/UHF antenna will do?

Will this unit work with TW cable to receive digital channels (unencrypted)?

Also I just return the radio shack yesterday that can pick up VHF/UHF/ and it said it can pick up HDTV signal. My question do I need to but that antenna again or any VHF/UHF antenna will do?


There is so such thing as HDTV antenna. It use the very same frequency as the analog TV. It just marking gimmick and just give them reason to raise the price. I use CM 4228 that was made back in the 50'-60' and I even build my own antenna and get digital TV. Just go to antennaweb.org and see what can get and look at the DT channel number most likely it will be in the UHF but some are in the VHF and after 2009 the UHF ch it may go back to VHF.

vincentnyc ,

Don't you have an old cheapy tv you can steal an antenna off of?

JUst try any antenna that you can return. If some stations come in good while some are breaking up try movning the antenna. If it looks like you are on the border line of getting a stations but not quite there think about getting a larger one.

There are just so many issues that can effect reception that you could write a book about them.

In NYC you may find a station is received better facing away from a transmitter just because of ghosting and multipath.

-DoN2

Well as soon as they charge my credit card and went to the back for the open box. They couldn't find anything. So they charge credit back. Forget it. I'm just gonna wait. No point in chasing this thing like the ps3 or something.

Will this unit work with TW cable to receive digital channels (unencrypted)?
If TW cable is sending out QAM 64 and 256 channels, yes it will. You might want to check out other threads on this board for your area, New York or California and search for a QAM listing to see if they correspond with your channel listings.

Has anyone found a universal remote control code that works on the H260 yet?

dbudworth,

As recommended early in this thread, a great universal remote to use is the Sony RMVL600. I bought mine at BB. It has a learn function that lets you set up the remote any way you want. It works much better than the H260's remote. I can point it almost 90 degrees away from the H260 and it still works. The H260 remote barely worked moving it about 20 degrees off target. The Sony remote also has macro buttons so you can program it to do up to 16 button pushes with one button. I have it set up to turn on all the equipment with one touch (that way my wife can use it).

Link to BB site: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7689156&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat72700050027&id=1138083504542

Good luck.

It seems that Samsung sells cheap remotes with their STB's . The reason I say this is that the SIR T451 had limited range also.

I wonder how the remotes that come with their tvs are?

-DoN2

anthandle,
Thanks for the reply. I just purchased a One for All learning universal remote (URC 8910) on ebay for $20 shipped. Very similar to the sony you mentioned, but with more features. It has 4 learning buttons and 3 macro buttons you can program. It has great reviews, but a bit large.

I highly recommend getting any kind of learning universal remote control for this STB. The one that comes with the unit is terrible.

I'm just looking to see if anyone has found any codes that have worked to save me a bit of time. I guess I'll have to call the One for All customer support to upgrade my remote.
Thanks again.
DB

dbudworth ,

This could explain why I see so many Samsung STB's on EBAY without the remotes.

In fact I don't remember the last time I used the OEM one.

I programmed a Remote for my T100 from one of the Remote Sites. It was a little tricky entering the codes but worked fine afterwords.

Now I can use the learning remotes since I have the OEM remote for the DTB-H260F

-DonB2

It seems that Samsung sells cheap remotes with their STB's . The reason I say this is that the SIR T451 had limited range also.

I wonder how the remotes that come with their tvs are?

-DoN2
The remote for my TXR2678WH is quite nice, great feel and doesn't have any of the problems displayed by the DTB-H260F. I agree, that the DTB remote is barely adequate. However I was surprised that the remote for the TV had an option to sun the DTB but won't accept the codes for it made by the same company.

I too went out and got the Sony and its great, especially for the price!

I'm just looking to see if anyone has found any codes that have worked to save me a bit of time.
There is a JP1 upgrade file for the H260F here (http://www.hifi-remote.com/forums/dload.php?action=file&file_id=3897) on the JP1 forum. I haven't tried it yet.

I just picked up a dtb-h260f, and it gets good reception. *HOWEVER*, im using it with a 4:3 analog tv, and there are some issues.

The tv has component(480i) inputs that are labeled as colorstream. Using those with the h260f yields a distinct pink cast over everything. All the colors seem to be present, just a huge PINK cast over everything. Tweaking the picture settings on the tv doesnt fix it. Online suggested the green & blue cables were switched, but that gave an inverted image.



Any thoughts on whats up with my pink picture? or svideo tall/skinny picture?

Same thing has happened to me... . My Toshiba 46H84 RPTV and the H260 look great with a 1080i output from the Samsung. I switched it to 480i and I get the same Pinkish tint.

Just look up on Circuit City website and they don't show the HDTV STB DTB-H260F tuner anymore and even the old model ? 451. CC don't show any HDTV STB of anybrand or any new DVD w/ASTC tuner yet either. I know it too soon for the new relase of DVD recorder, but the DTB-H260F is not on the web anymore?

Best Buy still have it on thier website at same price $179.00 but none in Wisconsin store, but they do have it on shelf display for last 8 months and still don't know when they will get in stock.

Just look up on Circuit City website and they don't show the HDTV STB DTB-H260F tuner anymore and even the old model ? 451. CC don't show any HDTV STB of anybrand or any new DVD w/ASTC tuner yet either. I know it too soon for the new relase of DVD recorder, but the DTB-H260F is not on the web anymore?

Best Buy still have it on thier website at same price $179.00 but none in Wisconsin store, but they do have it on shelf display for last 8 months and still don't know when they will get in stock.
Although I don't know these guys and have never bought anything from them, refurbdepot.com shows they have them in stock.

i just read something interesting...it said march 1, 2007 is the DATE. which mean all new devices like dvd recorder that is coming out after this date and has a tuner MUST be ATSC.

so my question is should i even get this samsung tuner which cost about $200 that does nothing except for being a tuner. or wait for a dvd recorder device which has more function which also have a tuner? if both cost the same....it is a no brainer to get the dvd recorder device.

i just read something interesting...it said march 1, 2007 is the DATE. which mean all new devices like dvd recorder that is coming out after this date and has a tuner MUST be ATSC.

so my question is should i even get this samsung tuner which cost about $200 that does nothing except for being a tuner. or wait for a dvd recorder device which has more function which also have a tuner? if both cost the same....it is a no brainer to get the dvd recorder device.


Not all DVD Recorder must have ATSC tuner that is built after March 1, 2007. Just the DVD Recorder with built in TV tuners must have NTSC and ATSC tuners.

1. DVD Recorder

2. DVD Recorder w/ATSC & NTSC tuners.

Samsung will have 2 release DVD with tuners, one in sometime March and the other in April.

The question that I haven't seen an answer to yet, is if the DVD recorders with ATSC tuners will output in High Def = 720p or 1080i? I realize it will only record in 480. If so our DTB-H260Fs will be obsolete very quickly for OTA use.

But maybe most people don't care or can not tell the difference between 480i/480p/720p/1080i. Except for a select minority of people like us on AVS forum.

dbudworth,

As recommended early in this thread, a great universal remote to use is the Sony RMVL600. I bought mine at BB. It has a learn function that lets you set up the remote any way you want. It works much better than the H260's remote. I can point it almost 90 degrees away from the H260 and it still works. The H260 remote barely worked moving it about 20 degrees off target. The Sony remote also has macro buttons so you can program it to do up to 16 button pushes with one button. I have it set up to turn on all the equipment with one touch (that way my wife can use it).

Link to BB site: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=7689156&type=product&productCategoryId=pcmcat72700050027&id=1138083504542

Good luck.

I second ANTHANDLE.
The Sony remote does everything better than the H260's original remote. The learning feature and the 4 macro buttons makes it one of the best universal remotes on the market. The only drawback is the limit of only 16 steps to the macro. But for $24 you can't beat it.

I too have it set up to turn on all the equipment with one touch (that way my wife and the kids can use it). With the H260 taking 12 seconds to turn on, which is an eternity for my wife, she gets very frustrated.

The question that I haven't seen an answer to yet, is if the DVD recorders with ATSC tuners will output in High Def = 720p or 1080i? I realize it will only record in 480. If so our DTB-H260Fs will be obsolete very quickly for OTA use.

But maybe most people don't care or can not tell the difference between 480i/480p/720p/1080i. Except for a select minority of people like us on AVS forum.
I think that ship has sailed, more and more people CAN tell the difference. As far as DVD recorders, I took an old Dell Precision 340 I had laying around, put a FusionHDTV 5 Gold card in it and voila. instant Hi-Def recorder in every resolution available.

Hi all

First of all, this forum has been very helpful for me so far.

I just got this tuner that I won on ebay yesterday. Im currently using the HDMI to my 37" westinghouse's DVI but it shows that the source resolution is 1920x540?? I set it to HDMI out with 1080i but still ... Is anyone here having the same problem? or is the tuner can only support 540 max? The monitor supports up to 1920x1080 BTW. Next Im goin to try it on my computer monitor, Ill let you guys know the result :)

I just got this tuner that I won on ebay yesterday. Im currently using the HDMI to my 37" westinghouse's DVI but it shows that the source resolution is 1920x540?? I set it to HDMI out with 1080i but still ... Is anyone here having the same problem?

I get the same "1920x540" figure on my Syntax LT32HV if I set the Samsung to 1080i. I'm not sure if the signal is really 540 or not, but that's what the Syntax displays when it acquires the signal. I'm also converting the HDMI to DVI, but that shouldn't matter... But anyway, since my TV is 1366x768, I just put it back on 720p.

However, I've had other problems. I suspect occasional issues with HDCP negotiation. When it works, it's fine; when it doesn't, I get zip. In any case, I went back to component.

Then, a couple days ago, it had trouble tuning in the local HD channels off of my Brighthouse cable ('weak or scrambled signal' for some of them). I thought perhaps that BH had jiggered their channels around, so I did a rescan. Instead of the 'scanning channels' display I'd seen before, I got a mess. The TV kept jumping from 'no signal' to a black '720p' signal about about half-second intervals. I left it alone for several minutes, came back, and it was still hosed.

Turning it off and on didn't help. Unplugging the power and plugging it back in seemed to get it working again, but needless to say I'm... perturbed.

I just saw a Samsung DTB-H260F ATSC tuner on display at Best Buy at the newest store that just opened in Durham NC. They even had one hooked up to a Plasma which really shocked me. Not sure if it was QAM or Antenna.

Anyway they had no others in stock and told me they would not sell either working display :mad:

Glad I already have my unit I was just checking for you other folks.

-DonB2

Just picked one up. Got lucky - one of the local BBs had one which was good since I had a $50GC from x-mas I had to burn. Went to one BB - didn't have any so I had them check other local stores and one of the BBs 15 min away had 1 in stock. Zipped over there and picked it up.

Works pretty well. I use it with my 20" Toshiba LCD HDTV/DVD tv-player. It picks up every OTA channel my Sony TV with a built in tuner does (off the same antenna) however with one channel - 54.1 from Baltimore - the DTB-H260F drops the signal frequently even though the DTB-H260F indicates a strong signal (and it registers 92-95% on my Sony tuner off the same antenna). That's kind of weird.

Don't like that it takes 10 or so seconds to display a picture after turning it on.

My Harmony 680 remote picked up all the remote functions well.

Hi all

First of all, this forum has been very helpful for me so far.

I just got this tuner that I won on ebay yesterday. Im currently using the HDMI to my 37" westinghouse's DVI but it shows that the source resolution is 1920x540?? I set it to HDMI out with 1080i but still ... Is anyone here having the same problem? or is the tuner can only support 540 max? The monitor supports up to 1920x1080 BTW. Next Im goin to try it on my computer monitor, Ill let you guys know the result :)
Since 540 is half of 1080 and the resolution is 1080i (interlaced...which means every other line, right?) I would assume its a syntax error.

Since 540 is half of 1080 and the resolution is 1080i (interlaced...which means every other line, right?) I would assume its a syntax error.

Yes its just a syntax error, I tried it on my computer monitor with DVI and it tells the same 540, so nothing to be worry about. I think this little box will be with me for a while :)

Have any of you guys had any problems with the Samsung DTB-H260F Off Air HDTV Turner's optical connection? The first one I purchased had a loose plastic optical receptacle causing audio drops unless I held the end of the cable steady and at a certain angle. If I let go the signal was lost. On the second one the plastic was not loose but still the same problem. I had to wiggle the cable around to get a connection and hold it there or the connection wouldn't work. The cable works fine on other components but same problem with different cables. The tech. at Best Buy said it was irreparable so took second one back also.
I would like to get another one, if this is not a common problem, but the North Texas Best Buy stores have been out since late Oct. '06.
Anybody know where they are available in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area?
Thanks!!

Just look up on Circuit City website and they don't show the HDTV STB DTB-H260F tuner anymore and even the old model ? 451. CC don't show any HDTV STB of anybrand or any new DVD w/ASTC tuner yet either. I know it too soon for the new relase of DVD recorder, but the DTB-H260F is not on the web anymore?

Best Buy still have it on thier website at same price $179.00 but none in Wisconsin store, but they do have it on shelf display for last 8 months and still don't know when they will get in stock.

I just found it on the Circuit City website but didn't put it in my cart and check out. I bet it will be "unavailable" at some point in the check out procedure. You can't find them anywhere in the North Texas area. I've returned two for optical connection problems.
Has anyone else had optical connection problems?
Anyone know where I can get another one?
Thanks!!

I have not had any problem with the optical output to my Dolby 5.1 receiver. Circuit city did put it back on their web site and shows it in stock online and at zipcode 92110 right now.

Vincent in NYC -
NYC has a ton of HD on all the main channels. Most evenings from the 5:00 news up are in HD and WNET is always in HD. Go for it. I am down the Jersey shore in Sea Girt about 45 miles from the Empire State Building with a 260 and CM 4228 and a preamp and get great reception. NBC and WNET are the weakest but you shouldn't have any trouble. I am using a Westy 42" 1080p monitor which looks great so yours is very similar. BTW I put a splitter in the line after the preamp and also feed a AVERMEDIA AVERTV HD MCE A180 card in my Dell 9200 PC and run BeyondTV as a HDTV DVR and tuner. That card is not the same quality as the 260 (~90%) but does a decent job. Not the same detail but sensitivity seems about the same - so that is always an option if you have your PC connected to the Westy.

Good Luck!

Jeff

I'm hoping to find someone to help me out!

I've had the 260F for about a month now (just over the 30 day return at CC, of course). It's been great. Today I'm showing a friend of mine the wonders of HDTV, and everything is working fine. I turn it off, turn it back on to show him one more thing, and nothing. Menu is fine, channel numbers show up, but every channel is "Weak or no signal." Nothing. My other TV works fine on the same antenna, with a built in tuner. Has anyone experienced this? Is there a reset or workaround? I can't believe it!

Thanks.

Has anyone found a universal remote control code that works on the H260 yet?

It's been my experience that programming a URC remote using the learning mode and the computer software is a lot easier than messing around with the preprogrammed schemes. YMMV.

I turn it off, turn it back on to show him one more thing, and nothing. Menu is fine, channel numbers show up, but every channel is "Weak or no signal." ...

This did happen to me once, a few weeks ago. I was going through the channels and there was one channel with a weak signal and no picture, then all the channels were blank. Powering down, and then up again didn't work.

Then, I turn the samsung off and then on, and held the power button down for 20-30 seconds. I've had no problems since.

DrBri99,
Thanks for the suggestion. I gave it a shot and it still doesn't work. Next is to check all of my cable between the tuner and the antenna. I just hope it's something simple!

The NEW DTB-H261F I was told will be available in March is tuner only, without DVD. I suspect the price will drop to under $100 given that tuners with DVD recording will be available. If you only need the tuner it is better to wait few more weeks. This explains also the shortage of the H260F units at CC and BB. They are waiting to get the newer cheaper model released this year. The second level support told me the 261F will be "the same" as the 260F but I suspect they will fix a few issues and perhaps update the firmware over their first released model. If you just want a tuner I think one should wait for the 261F not buy the 260F. I am returning mine to CC to get the newer model.
Now that we are into March already, has anyone heard of any "NEW NEWS" of the DTB-H261F receiver being sold anywhere?

"Posted by JBMC
I turn it off, turn it back on to show him one more thing, and nothing. Menu is fine, channel numbers show up, but every channel is "Weak or no signal." ..."

This just happened to me again last night. I have reported about this issue in the past except back than it was just one channel that gave me the No Signal.

Last night it was just about evey one although my older Pioneer ATSC receiver found the stations.

I than checked signal strength on a few of the stations that the Samsung was give me the NO Signal message on and the signal strength was 100 percent.

I powered down the Samsung and than powered it back up an than everything was back to normal.

I think the software occasionally gets confused.

Did you try unplugging your unit???

-DonB2

"It's been my experience that programming a URC remote using the learning mode and the computer software is a lot easier than messing around with the preprogrammed schemes. YMMV. "

I tried turning off my Samsung when I was having the issue with No Signal found as mentioned in my other recent post.

It appears I did not or forgot which button I used learing function on to act as the Samsung power button.

I ended up having to drag out the factory remote to turn it off :mad:

Of course I could have walked over and turned the unit off manually I know.

-DonB2

Now that we are into March already, has anyone heard of any "NEW NEWS" of the DTB-H261F receiver being sold anywhere?
I was told sometime in Mar but you know how this can be. I found just another ref to this:
http://beta.**************/forums/messageview.php?catid=18&threadid=708502&lastpage=1 if you look at the thread, yekim54 states that "Samsung is supposedly coming out with the newer DTB-H261F model this month." Farther more, they took off the option to select the 261 model from the Samsung site (could have been an error to allow this, they may still have the old 260 units to sell). The second level person said the 261 is the same as the 260 only that the 261 means the year 2007 and they have different model for different years (don't believe this).

DonB2,
My problem ended up being something totally different. It turns out the lead wire that goes from my antenna's coax to its circuit board was in the process of breaking (not sure how that happens). It was cutting in and out. The next day it broke entirely and all my reception on both TVs was gone. I fixed it and now everything is working fine. Turns out it wasn't the 260F after all.

I've been a long time reader of these boards, and have only posted once before but I thought I'd give people a heads up of a place that is selling the Samsung h260f tuner. B&H Photo Video out of New York has it in stock and I ordered one last week and it came in today. I know how hard it is to find one, since it took me a long time. Visit the site and do a search for the tuner and it will be in stock.

bhphotovideo com

I've been a long time reader of these boards, and have only posted once before but I thought I'd give people a heads up of a place that is selling the Samsung h260f tuner. B&H Photo Video out of New York has it in stock and I ordered one last week and it came in today. I know how hard it is to find one, since it took me a long time. Visit the site and do a search for the tuner and it will be in stock.

bhphotovideo com
They want a ripoff price of $220. No need to pay that. It is now again available at circuitcity. Don't know why you had to pay that much.

Yeah I did pay 220.00 but it seemed like a good deal at the time especially since I had driven to the Best Buy's with no luck, and no site had it including circuit city last week. But even at 220, I am very happy.

My replacement H260F should be arriving today from J&R in NY. It was on backorder for almost a month. But it seems that their latest shipment has all been sold. It's shown as "Temporarily Out of Stock". But I think you can order it, and they'll ship when they get stock.

After trying this for 30 days, I decided to return it.

So, if you are near Charlottesville, VA, CC has an open box return (as of 3/4/07).

I loved the unit, but once DVD recorders have ATSC tuners, I'll just want one, and I won't need two ATSC tuners.