9.1, 9.2, 9.3, & 9.4 populated data on my DISH EPG's tonight.
Also, 5.2 now says "NBC Weather Plus" instead of "Digital Service."

Someone mentioned DirecTV Retention. Today I called to cancel and was offered $10 off my Total Choice package, free HD package, and they'd waive the DVR fee. I told them I'd think about it.

I have a Series 3 TiVo now, so I do want to cancel DirecTV. I just need to find a home for my HR10-250 (DirecTV HD TiVo).

Will you use the Tivo 3 for OTA and cable?
In the clear or cable cards?
If yes re: cable cards then is it up and running and any trouble getting 2 cable cards from Charter?
And finally..What do they charge for the CC's?
Thanks

Very strange on my D*when I try to get a hd channel like hdnet my analog in my bedroom it loses its signal if I switch to a local it comes back on I have done this 5 times what is going on.The hr 20 is not picking up all the locals either they come on and go out but changing the channel in the living room to hd net where I do not get a signal knocks out the tv signal in the 2 bedrooms.The installer was just here and when we tried hd it also it knocked out my other 2 tvs signal.He is coming back tomorrow.Very strange.I am also getting about 57% signal thru hd.

Edit: My memory is clearly getting fuzzy -- Sorry, but I don't even show the subchannels in the list, primarily because they aren't HD (and I hate those $(#U*$*# subchannels)

Well, sometimes they DO serve a useful purpose sometimes... :)

Actually, I would LOVE to have The Tube back on the air in my area.
Unfortunately, the wonderful Sinclair affiliates BOTH up in Springfield/Champaign (WICS/WICD-ABC) & Bloomington (WYZZ-FOX) pulled it off Jan 1st, since poor Sinclair can't afford to put EAS on their subchannels. So, since the FCC says they can't do this, Sinclair just pulled it. :rolleyes:

If anyone can post a list sometime, I'd appreciate it. Since I'm obviously not around your market on a regular basis, it's kind of hard for me to find these myself. :)

Will you use the Tivo 3 for OTA and cable?
In the clear or cable cards?
If yes re: cable cards then is it up and running and any trouble getting 2 cable cards from Charter?
And finally..What do they charge for the CC's?
Thanks

For now, my plan is to go OTA only. 90%+ of our viewing is from the networks. We'll see how it goes with so few channels.

From what I understand, Charter charges $1.50 per cablecard.

Very strange on my D*when I try to get a hd channel like hdnet my analog in my bedroom it loses its signal if I switch to a local it comes back on I have done this 5 times what is going on.The hr 20 is not picking up all the locals either they come on and go out but changing the channel in the living room to hd net where I do not get a signal knocks out the tv signal in the 2 bedrooms.The installer was just here and when we tried hd it also it knocked out my other 2 tvs signal.He is coming back tomorrow.Very strange.I am also getting about 57% signal thru hd.

The multiswitch in the LNB is screwed up, unless they gave you an external multiswitch.

5-2 is weather plus
9-2 is PBS Kids
9-3 is something
9-4 is something else

That is it of the subchannels.

Well for those of you HR10-250 owners sitting on the fence about getting the HR20 but don't want to pay
for it, you might want to try what I did. I got my first HR20 for 21.95, this was just customer retention
trying to be nice. I have been trying to get another HR20 for the same price but have
been unable to. Well, wouldn't you know it, one of my orhter HR10-250's started
have HDMI issues ;) .

I called DirecTV and they sent me a replacement unit for $21.95. Now I have 2 HR20's :D

I think I might actually sell this HR10-250. The last one I gave away.

5-2 is weather plus
9-2 is PBS Kids
9-3 is something
9-4 is something else

That is it of the subchannels.

From KETC's webpage...

9.1-PBS HD
9.2-PBS KIDS
9.3-
9.4-PBS Create

9.3 isn't listed...but I think that's the carbondale one maybe?

Explosion Complicates DirecTV HD Satellite Launch Plans

From TV Predictions:
________________________________________________________

A commercial Sea Launch rocket exploded yesterday, leaving DIRECTV's plans to expand its HDTV capacity in doubt.

However, DIRECTV spokesman Robert Mercer told TVPredictions.com tonight that the explosion will not impact the satcaster's high-def plans. Mercer said he could not elaborate.

The satcaster is planning two satellite launches this year to expand its high-def lineup. The first one, a ground launch, should not be affected by the explosion. But the second one, from Sea Launch, could be delayed or even cancelled by yesterday's explosion.

Mercer told TVPredictions.com this morning that the company is "evaluating our options." But he said tonight that the company believes its HD plan will not be affected.
________________________________________________________

For the full story, click here (http://www.tvpredictions.com/dtvrocket013107.htm)

The multiswitch in the LNB is screwed up, unless they gave you an external multiswitch.


I dont know and it is outside but he did change one.I am the second person today that this happened to I was also given one of the slim line dishes.He said I do not have enough signal strength for hd 57% and I was getting a lot of 92-092-092-0 along the whole spectrum.He seemed perplexed on why when we went to hd it killed the other tvs.Everything is fine in the bedrooms now that the hr20 is not turned on I

am hoping that someone on this board could pinpoint something as wmshultz has pointed out .He is coming back tomorrow to move the dish slightly but I think there is more involved here.Now if all you fine gentleman and gals could put your head together and find a answer.Thanks in advance.One more thing when I did a signal test it my sons room it knocked my wifes tv off I quit the test andit came back on.

Question on Dish....

Is it possible to have 2 HD DVRs (622 I think)? I've tried to do it through dish builder, but it only allows 1.

Tomorrow is the day I tell Charter to @#$% off (as long as I can get 1 free 622), and want to have my ducks in a row.

Tim

From KETC's webpage...

9.1-PBS HD
9.2-PBS KIDS
9.3-
9.4-PBS Create

9.3 isn't listed...but I think that's the carbondale one maybe?


9.3 is their analog air programming

I'm Not Making This Up: DirecTV Rocket Explodes!

From TV Predictions:
________________________________________________________

A commercial Sea Launch rocket exploded yesterday, leaving DIRECTV's plans to expand its HDTV capacity in doubt.

However, DIRECTV spokesman Robert Mercer told TVPredictions.com tonight that the explosion will not impact the satcaster's high-def plans. Mercer said he could not elaborate.

The satcaster is planning two satellite launches this year to expand its high-def lineup. The first one, a ground launch, should not be affected by the explosion. But the second one, from Sea Launch, could be delayed or even cancelled by yesterday's explosion.

Mercer told TVPredictions.com this morning that the company is "evaluating our options." But he said tonight that the company believes its HD plan will not be affected.
________________________________________________________

For the full story, click here (http://www.tvpredictions.com/dtvrocket013107.htm)

Here is the video of the explosion (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UxKxzMLMcQU)

I have gotten pretty fed up with Charter and there lack of CBS and ABC HD and there general lack of HDTV. I'm looking at Dish, since they have more HD channels, and I have a feeling they will not let DirecTV get 100 HD channels without some competition. My question is, can the 622 record 2 HD channels at the same time? It says it supports an HDTV and SDTV, but can I record two HD shows at the same time to view on my one HDTV? Plus, I assume that if I do hook up an HDTV and SDTV, I can only show two programs at a time, so if the SDTV is watching something I can't watch my HDTV and record? The one thing that has kept me w/ Charter is the fact that we have 4 TV's, but only have a box (Moxi) for one. Plus, the Moxi has two HDTV tuners. Plus I have TV+Phone+Internet w/ Charter, so I get a bundle discount. I would keep phone and internet w/ Charter. So, I'm not sure about the whole satellite thing. I see online that w/ the Silver HD Package, one HD-DVR (no other boxes), and local channels it is $50.97 for 10 months, plus $200 equipment fee ($200 rebate taken off of monthly payment). If I were to call them and say I'm considering switching from cable to Dish, would they be willing to give me more of a discount? I really want 27 HD channels.

Also, is SD any better w/ satellite? Channels 1-99 for me are pretty bad, though some are better than others. 100+ is better since they are digital. Would satellite improve this SD quality for 1-99?

For now, my plan is to go OTA only. 90%+ of our viewing is from the networks. We'll see how it goes with so few channels.

From what I understand, Charter charges $1.50 per cablecard.

Can you archive the local OTA-HD @ 480i from the TIVO3 into a DVD recorder?

Also, is SD any better w/ satellite? Channels 1-99 for me are pretty bad, though some are better than others. 100+ is better since they are digital. Would satellite improve this SD quality for 1-99?

Well this is can thing that I can comment on yes on 1 thru 99 the pq is greatly improved atleast on my wifes tv.

9.3 is their analog air programming

OK, well this helps me anyway - KETC doesn't say this on their website.

Perhaps you can help with the rest of the info - here's what (I think) you guys get for OTA down there:

KTVI-43, KMOV-56 & KDNL-31 are in HD & have no other subchannels
KSDK-35 is HD on 5.1, but has Weather+ on 5.2
KPLR-26 is HD on 11.1, but has The Tube on 11.2
KNLC-14 & WRBU-47 are NOT in HD at all, nor have other subchannels (I know, who cares, but still...)
(already got the skinny on KETC-39)

Sound right?

Can you archive the local OTA-HD @ 480i from the TIVO3 into a DVD recorder?

I don't see why not. I picked up an RCA DVD Recorder for my dad over the weekend--it's sitting here in the box, and I'm really tempted to open it and give it a try. :D

Bill,
Yes, tech services.
The PQR's sign their emails--Dish Network Audio/Visual Quality Control Representative. I think the a/v q/c department is located in CO with their corp offices. Their task is to communicate with subs regarding quality issues once reception and hardware is ruled out.

I've seen them referred to as PQR's, AVQCR's, and QCR's.

I'm sure DTV and Charter...well, DTV.... has something like it also, they may call it something else.


I don't believe it is the E* 622 that is causing the problems. I recorded Smallville last week on the 622 via HD,SD and LIL. I also watched it OTA with the tuner on my Toshiba HMX94 at the same time.
In this instance I was able to watch OTA on the Toshiba and go back and look at all the other recordings to see if I got the pixelation in the same place. It was identical on all HD broadcast whether they were OTA or LIL no matter from which source. The only one that was not pixelated was the SD version.

I'm not sure if this has been posted yet.
If you subscribe to E* you can now get all of the guide data for:

9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
11.2

All you have to do is scan your locals to load in the info. I did a check switch to make sure they loaded.
This will really help in setting up recordings on the PBS channels. Something we were unable to do unless we just setup a recorder for a specific time.

I have gotten pretty fed up with Charter and there lack of CBS and ABC HD and there general lack of HDTV. I'm looking at Dish, since they have more HD channels, and I have a feeling they will not let DirecTV get 100 HD channels without some competition. My question is, can the 622 record 2 HD channels at the same time? It says it supports an HDTV and SDTV, but can I record two HD shows at the same time to view on my one HDTV? Plus, I assume that if I do hook up an HDTV and SDTV, I can only show two programs at a time, so if the SDTV is watching something I can't watch my HDTV and record? The one thing that has kept me w/ Charter is the fact that we have 4 TV's, but only have a box (Moxi) for one. Plus, the Moxi has two HDTV tuners. Plus I have TV+Phone+Internet w/ Charter, so I get a bundle discount. I would keep phone and internet w/ Charter. So, I'm not sure about the whole satellite thing. I see online that w/ the Silver HD Package, one HD-DVR (no other boxes), and local channels it is $50.97 for 10 months, plus $200 equipment fee ($200 rebate taken off of monthly payment). If I were to call them and say I'm considering switching from cable to Dish, would they be willing to give me more of a discount? I really want 27 HD channels.

Also, is SD any better w/ satellite? Channels 1-99 for me are pretty bad, though some are better than others. 100+ is better since they are digital. Would satellite improve this SD quality for 1-99?

You can record 3 HD programs at the same time (1 OTA and 2 satellite), while watching a 4th HD that's already recorded, and, I think, a 5th (in SD) if you have it set up for dual viewing. The 622 is an extremely versatile DVR.

I watch very little SD, but it all looks bad to me. I watch as little as possible. It's getting harder and harder even to watch DVD. I'm spoiled, very spoiled, and I fear I will die before SD goes away altogether.

I don't believe it is the E* 622 that is causing the problems. I recorded Smallville last week on the 622 via HD,SD and LIL. I also watched it OTA with the tuner on my Toshiba HMX94 at the same time.
In this instance I was able to watch OTA on the Toshiba and go back and look at all the other recordings to see if I got the pixelation in the same place. It was identical on all HD broadcast whether they were OTA or LIL no matter from which source. The only one that was not pixelated was the SD version.
Bg,
It happens with the 211 also, not just the 622. It's fairly establised not to be an isolated receiver issue.
Dish has acknowledged a problem exists, though it is not yet determined if the issue originates at KPLR, or the way Dish Network is handling their transmissions.

Most reports indicated the opposite of what you experienced with Smallville, and I don't believe the issue is present through DTV or Charter.

I'm Not Making This Up: DirecTV Rocket Explodes!

From TV Predictions:
________________________________________________________

A commercial Sea Launch rocket exploded yesterday, leaving DIRECTV's plans to expand its HDTV capacity in doubt.

However, DIRECTV spokesman Robert Mercer told TVPredictions.com tonight that the explosion will not impact the satcaster's high-def plans. Mercer said he could not elaborate.

The satcaster is planning two satellite launches this year to expand its high-def lineup. The first one, a ground launch, should not be affected by the explosion. But the second one, from Sea Launch, could be delayed or even cancelled by yesterday's explosion.

Mercer told TVPredictions.com this morning that the company is "evaluating our options." But he said tonight that the company believes its HD plan will not be affected.
________________________________________________________

For the full story, click here (http://www.tvpredictions.com/dtvrocket013107.htm)

I hope his comments are true. If the explosion gave anyone at Dish or ATT or cable a moment of rest, it's bad for HD. I love how every announcement about new HD fuels speculation about how the other guys are going to have to respond. Because, you know, they WILL have to respond. Competition is good.

Anyone else watch Fox primetime tonight to gather info for ktviengineering? I watched Bones and saw at least eight separate video glitches. I will either post pics later or send him an email.

Scott

Anyone else watch Fox primetime tonight to gather info for ktviengineering? I watched Bones and saw at least eight separate video glitches. I will either post pics later or send him an email.

Scott

Please email.....

This way it can go straight to my boss. I'm giving him the password to that address.

A copy will also be forwarded to me.

THANKS!

(I also saw 8)

Please email.....

This way it can go straight to my boss. I'm giving him the password to that address.

A copy will also be forwarded to me.

THANKS!

(I also saw 8)

We'll do.

Scott

As of 11:00 pm central Dish's web site is offline. Looks like they are posting their new offers . . .

:)

Title is misleading, it wasn't a Directv sat tat blew up. It was another one, but on the same launch pad that they were going to use.

You know all the problems I have been having with my new install and a person on another forum said that a zinwell 6x8 is required with the 5nlb and a astra 3x4 was installed instead.Keep the tips coming guys.

I like my 2807.

I had to work late last night, so I havn't had a chance to run the 2807 through it's paces, but I did get it all hooked into my system and I've already noticed one issue. I hope there's a workaround.


Here's the deal:

The denon has 2 HDMI inputs. I have the following devices connected to a 5 port HDMI switch, then into input 1 on the Denon:

Dish 622 HD DVR
PS3
HD-A1

I have an HTPC going to input 2 using a DVI->HDMI cable for video and coax for audio.

The problem is the Dish 622 only outputs stereo over HDMI. On my Yamaha I could use the audio button on the remote to cycle through the different audio options fot that device (HDMI, COAX, TOS). So while it wasn't perfect, I could at least get to a DD bitstream with a couple of button pushes.

The denon uses discrete assignments. Unfortunately If I select HDMI for the DTV input I cannot assign one of the digital audio inputs as a secondary audio option. So now I have 3 choices:


1) Live with stereo audio from the Dish622 till they fix the HDMI audio. :(

2) Connect the Dish 622 using component video until dish fixes the HDMI audio. Downside is the HDMI picture is noticibly better. :(

3) Change my HTPC to component video out (I use my 622 alot more than I use my HTPC) then I can puth the 622 on HDMI2 with TOS audio.

Anyone have suggestions?
I'll post more once I've been able to play.

Dave

Title is misleading, it wasn't a Directv sat tat blew up. It was another one, but on the same launch pad that they were going to use.You are correct. Maybe I should have "clicked to read the full story." So much for multitasking... :o

The link below is to a Panasonic TV commercial that appeared on British TV that nicely dramatizes the realism of HDTV.

A friend in the UK sent this to me, and I've uploaded it to YouTube. Because it's presumably a copyrighted TV commercial, it may not remain accessible on YouTube for long. But once you see it you'll probably agree that Panasonic and its ad agency were counting on this advertisement being redistributed via the web.

Warning: Probably best not to view this while eating... ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EXaDJWH104

Based on this report from a New Orleans newspaper web site, the dispute between Belo/KMOV and Charter could be worse. In New Orleans, Belo threatened to remove the CBS affiliate's HD feed from Cox cable systems at midnight Wednesday.

http://www.nola.com/newslogs/tpupdates/index.ssf?/mtlogs/nola_tpupdates/archives/2007_02_01.html

At least Charter customers here had a few weeks to make OTA or alternative subscription arrangements. I would expect that a lot of New Orleans HD cable viewers will only find out they've been blindsided when they try to tune into the game on Sunday afternoon.

Note that the HD feed was supposed to be yanked at midnight Wednesday, but remained available on Cox Cable after that time.

Senator Kerry Seeks to Block DirecTV MLB Exclusive

I wonder if the Senator understands that this has no impact on local Red Sox viewers. Or maybe representing the interests of all of "Red Sox Nation" is a substitute for a different sort of national mandate. :rolleyes:

FWIW, going back a few years the MLB EI package used to be exclusive to DirecTV and nobody seemed to care much -- not even the bulk of DirecTV's subscribers...

From today's TV Predictions newsletter:
____________________________________________________________ ______

DIRECTV is close to landing an exclusive deal to carry Major League Baseball's 'Extra Innings' package. But Sen. John Kerry still hopes to knock the plan out of the park.

The Massachusetts Democrat plans to raise concerns about the proposed deal today during a Senate subcommittee hearing in which FCC Chairman Kevin Martin will testify.

"I am opposed to anything that deprives people of reasonable choices. In this day and age, consumers should have more choices -- not fewer," Kerry said in a statement Wednesday. "A Red Sox fan ought to be able to watch their team without having to switch to DIRECTV."
____________________________________________________________ ______

Click here (http://www.tvpredictions.com/kerry020107.htm) to read the entire story.

Update: Belo Agrees to "30-Day Extension" in New Orleans HD Talks

Of course, this raises the question of whether there might be a temporary reprieve here between Charter and Belo -- assuming they've actually been negotiating.

From today's TV Predictions newsletter:
________________________________________________________

The Belo-owned WWL-TV in New Orleans said early this morning that it will allow Cox Cable there to offer the CBS High-Definition broadcast of Sunday's Super Bowl.

Belo and Cox have been battling over a new agreement for the right to carry WWL's standard and high-def signals.

But Belo Corp. said in a statement this morning that "significant progress" has been made in the talks.

"As a result there will be a 30 day extension for the carriage of WWL TV Channel 4 and Newswatch 15 on Cox Cable. As a good faith gesture, and for the benefit of the viewers of New Orleans, Belo and Cox will provide Sunday's Super Bowl,including pre-and post-game coverage, in High Defiinition on Cox cable," Belo said in a statement.
________________________________________________________

Full Story (http://www.tvpredictions.com/belobreak020107.htm)

I had to work late last night, so I havn't had a chance to run the 2807 through it's paces, but I did get it all hooked into my system and I've already noticed one issue. I hope there's a workaround.


Here's the deal:

The denon has 2 HDMI inputs. I have the following devices connected to a 5 port HDMI switch, then into input 1 on the Denon:

Dish 622 HD DVR
PS3
HD-A1

I have an HTPC going to input 2 using a DVI->HDMI cable for video and coax for audio.

The problem is the Dish 622 only outputs stereo over HDMI. On my Yamaha I could use the audio button on the remote to cycle through the different audio options fot that device (HDMI, COAX, TOS). So while it wasn't perfect, I could at least get to a DD bitstream with a couple of button pushes.

The denon uses discrete assignments. Unfortunately If I select HDMI for the DTV input I cannot assign one of the digital audio inputs as a secondary audio option. So now I have 3 choices:


1) Live with stereo audio from the Dish622 till they fix the HDMI audio. :(

2) Connect the Dish 622 using component video until dish fixes the HDMI audio. Downside is the HDMI picture is noticibly better. :(

3) Change my HTPC to component video out (I use my 622 alot more than I use my HTPC) then I can puth the 622 on HDMI2 with TOS audio.

Anyone have suggestions?
I'll post more once I've been able to play.

Dave

Maybe I don't understand it completely, but if on #3 you connect the 622 into HDMI2, why is that different than connecting it into the HDMI switcher?

Scott

You know all the problems I have been having with my new install and a person on another forum said that a zinwell 6x8 is required with the 5nlb and a astra 3x4 was installed instead.Keep the tips coming guys.

You don't need a multiswitch at all if you only have the 2 recievers.
Just disconnect it and put a barrel connector between the cables to connect them.

The link below is to a Panasonic TV commercial that appeared on British TV that nicely dramatizes the realism of HDTV.

A friend in the UK sent this to me, and I've uploaded it to YouTube. Because it's presumably a copyrighted TV commercial, it may not remain accessible on YouTube for long. But once you see it you'll probably agree that Panasonic and its ad agency were counting on this advertisement being redistributed via the web.

Warning: Probably best not to view this while eating... ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EXaDJWH104

That's awesome, I was waiting for him to lick his lips.... I'll repost the link to some other forums.

I have gotten pretty fed up with Charter and there lack of CBS and ABC HD and there general lack of HDTV.


I have all services through Charter as well. I took the route of dumping the Moxi and picking up a Tivo Series 3. It can record 2 HD programs at once and has more capacity than the Moxi. It also can accept an antenna input as well as cable to allow you to recieve ABC and CBS in HD over the air. I am able to use a small indoor antenna, so no wiring was required. The Tivo like the Moxi records the digital version of the SD channels 1-99. They shouldn't look too bad on that TV. The others will still get the analog version if they don't have a cable box.

This is just an option to consider. I couldn't justify jumping to satellite with the number of TVs I have and all of the rewiring that would be required. I am still limited to the smaller offering of HD channels offered by Charter, but I can get around the two missing locals in HD for the time being.

I have all services through Charter as well. I took the route of dumping the Moxi and picking up a Tivo Series 3. It can record 2 HD programs at once and has more capacity than the Moxi. It also can accept an antenna input as well as cable to allow you to recieve ABC and CBS in HD over the air. I am able to use a small indoor antenna, so no wiring was required. The Tivo like the Moxi records the digital version of the SD channels 1-99. They shouldn't look too bad on that TV. The others will still get the analog version if they don't have a cable box.

This is just an option to consider. I couldn't justify jumping to satellite with the number of TVs I have and all of the rewiring that would be required. I am still limited to the smaller offering of HD channels offered by Charter, but I can get around the two missing locals in HD for the time being.

Yeah, but an $800 option (plus monthly Tivo fee). Cost hasn't come down yet on the Series 3, has it? While easier to implement, it would be impossible for me to justify that cost compared to what it would take to re-wire for satellite.

DirecTV is here now installing my new slimline dish and 2 HR20s. My OTA antenna and dish are in different locations so I have the lines diplexed coming to the TVs. They tell me you can't do that with the new dish and HR20s -- they require a direct connection. Not a big deal since I wasn't getting 9-1 and 11-2 with the OTA antenna anyway.

So what is the best tabletop indoor HDTV OTA antennas these days. I was going to look at Amazon at the Zenith ZHDTV1 one, but noticed it disappeared from my wish list as not available anymore.

...since late last night.

Dean, you can diplex in right now. It is just later when the new satellites get launched.

...since late last night.

Taliban ?

I just connected an hdmi cable to my 622 receiver going straight to my Toshiba plasma. I get great picture, but no sound. Does not the TV take the sound from the hdmi feed and feed it to my HK receiver via optical? Currently I've been using optical from the 622 to the receiver. I need this to work because I just ordered the Oppo 970 and will need the hdmi to carry the sound.

Yeah, but an $800 option (plus monthly Tivo fee). Cost hasn't come down yet on the Series 3, has it? While easier to implement, it would be impossible for me to justify that cost compared to what it would take to re-wire for satellite.

Yeah that's true. You can get one for around $650 online now, but you are stuck with the monthly fee. I had lifetime service on an older one that I transferred to the new one. It made my decision a little easier.

I don't believe the TV has a built in Pass through. I thought the dd out from a TV is just to pass the OTA signal through.

What happens if you put the 622 to pass no DD? Then what happens?

The HDMI does pass the sound, the TV just can't do anything that is sent over in Dolby Digital. TV's don't have a built in Dolby Digital decoder.

When you have it set to PCM, does the TV get the sound then, but just not pass it to the receiver?

Anyone heard of problems with the HR20 HDMI outputs on Samsung TVs? Both units are having problems initializing and the installers say the HDMI out doesn't work with some Sammys. Something about standards support lacking on one side or the other.

So we're getting them started up on Component. My gut tells me once that's all sorted out I can switch to HDMI and it'll work.

I am finally getting everything to work from the installers part.The installers added 2 more lines from the dish they took out the 3x4 switch altogether and I am having D* bliss and I must say the ota tuner which is the only thing that worked yesterday is really good.

Dean,

I think they fixed that issue with a past sofware upgrade.

I am finally getting everything to work from the installers part.The installers added 2 more lines from the dish they took out the 3x4 switch altogether and I am having D* bliss and I must say the ota tuner which is the only thing that worked yesterday is really good.

Sounds like a really lazy installer you got the first time.

Tried that too, no sound. What's the since of having sound on the hdmi if the TV won't pass the sound through. Do I need to start looking for a new receiver that has hdmi switching? I hate that thought of that when everything is so iffy with hdmi.

Yes, be careful as you look into the different HDMI switching/processing options.
All are definitaely not created equal.

Dave

Maybe I don't understand it completely, but if on #3 you connect the 622 into HDMI2, why is that different than connecting it into the HDMI switcher?

Scott

With items on the HDMI switch I have to have devices that pass audio via HDMI because I can only set an HDMI input to use either HDMI sound or coax/toslink, but not both.

By putting the 622 on HDMI2 I can set it to only use HDMI for video and use a coax/toslink connection for audio (like I am currently doing with my HTPC)

Since I have only 2 HDMI inputs I have 1 set to use HDMI for audio and the other not HDMI audio.

Again, one of my sources (either HTPC or Dish622) will have to use something other than HDMI for video.

Hopefully I explained this better.
Dave

Thaks Dave. I currently don't use HDMI on anything. With all of the issues everyone is having, I don't want to get into either. Component video looks good enough for me anyway. Besides, none of my a/v switchers have HDMI anyway. I use my Denon 3805 to switch everything in the theater, and a Russound CAV6.6 to feed the rest of the house with composite video and stereo audio.

Scott

I'm at Kisker & 94 and I use a DB8, which is what _token_ uses under a different name.

Mine is outside.


I'm at 94 and Pitman Hill...(on a hill with no trees) and have the Zenith Silver Sensor sitting on top of my Ent. center. 95% to 98% on all channels with it pointed in the general direction of the towers. No problems so far......

Dave I don't know if you are going to do this or not, but one thing I still need to fix is the way I have my stuff connected from my receiver to my TV.

I have everything connected to my receiver and have the receiver set to upconvert everything to HDMI, then I have a HDMI --> DVI cable going from the receiver to the TV.

The problem with this is that I can't change the audio input on my receiver when I the TV is being used.

Like, my son wants to play the Xbox360, but I am listening to Sirius. But because I have
all of my video inputs set to upconvert to HDMI, I can not listen to Sirius.

So, I need to run some Component cables to my TV from the receiver so I can do this.

Dude not true! I have a Samsung and we had problems doing the intial setup as well with the hdmi cable...i'm pretty sure all we had to do was change the output resolution in the front...i wish I could remember better, but it ended up being that simple. After that you can use the hdmi, no problem.I'm going to let them get it all setup and activated on component. Once they are gone, I'll redo whatever is wrong.

With all the talk on hdmi, Big Lots in St. Ann has 6' hdmi cables for $12.00...Gold plated TriQuest.

Well for those of you HR10-250 owners sitting on the fence about getting the HR20 but don't want to pay
for it, you might want to try what I did. I got my first HR20 for 21.95, this was just customer retention
trying to be nice. I have been trying to get another HR20 for the same price but have
been unable to. Well, wouldn't you know it, one of my orhter HR10-250's started
have HDMI issues ;) .

I called DirecTV and they sent me a replacement unit for $21.95. Now I have 2 HR20's :D

I think I might actually sell this HR10-250. The last one I gave away.


I should of had you do my negotiating. I got the new HR20 and the new Dish installed for $99 (down from $299). They gave me an install date of 2/19.

With all the talk on hdmi, Big Lots in St. Ann has 6' hdmi cables for $12.00...Gold plated TriQuest.


That's a good price for a local cable.

For those of you who aren't Apple/Mac users, there's a company that makes accessories for iPods called ExtremeMac that annouced a line of audio and video cables at MacWorld. The Apple Stores (Galleria and West County) will be stocking these. $20 for HDMI, HDMI -> DVI, Opitical, and Component and the Analog Audio cables are $15. They also have a 4x1 HDMI Switch that I believe to be IR controllable for $100.

ExtremeMac A/V Cables (http://www.xtrememac.com/audio/av_cables/)

I know this is a bit off-topic, but since we all need our HD-friendly interconnects, I figured I'd mention it. :)

Taliban ?

Charter.

Taliban ?
Charter.

Both equally treacherous, I suspect... :rolleyes:

Anyone know for sure what resolutions the component outputs of the D* HR20 support? I only ask since my Panny S77 will only do 720p / 1080i via HDMI, & My Toshiba 32HLV66 only has 1 HDMI input.

Supposed to get the new 5LNB dish & HR20 installed tomorrow afternoon, hopefully the snow doesn't mess that up.

Anyone heard of problems with the HR20 HDMI outputs on Samsung TVs? Both units are having problems initializing and the installers say the HDMI out doesn't work with some Sammys. Something about standards support lacking on one side or the other.

So we're getting them started up on Component. My gut tells me once that's all sorted out I can switch to HDMI and it'll work.My gut was right. After the installers left, I hooked up the HDMI cables and it worked on both TVs without further ado. :rolleyes:

Still need a indoor tabletop OTA. What are people recommending these days.

You will be fine. It does all 4 that are on the box. 480i / 480p / 720p/ 1080i.

People like to complain about the D* DVR interface compared to TIVO. But I would like to say that setting up a season pass sure was easier. It required 3 button clicks total. I don't remember TIVO being that straightforward (or fast).

The only thing I have missed about the Tivo so far is the autocorrection on the fast forward. I'm still not used to the timing of the HR20 coming out of a FF.

The ability to play mp3's & pictures (although a bit buggy) is worth the trade off for me ;)

Good luck,
Token

HR20 commercial skip
OK, who ever said there is no 30/8 sec forward/back skip on the HR20? There is on mine, and I didn't have to set the secret 4 button salute.

Favorite Channels
Yes! Two custom sets. One for me and one for the wife. That was one thing I really missed having when I got my HR10.

Wind and Rewind
4 speeds vs. 3 of TIVO

D*TIVO: 0
D* DVR: 3

Off to find the device file for my Home Theater Master MX-700

My gut was right. After the installers left, I hooked up the HDMI cables and it worked on both TVs without further ado. :rolleyes:

Still need a indoor tabletop OTA. What are people recommending these days.

Try this antenna.

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-PHDTV1-Digital-HDTV-UHF-Antenna/dp/B0007XDI54/sr=8-3/qid=1170364190/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3/102-0235370-1744941?ie=UTF8&s=electronics

Scott

Try this antenna.

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-PHDTV1-Digital-HDTV-UHF-Antenna/dp/B0007XDI54/sr=8-3/qid=1170364190/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3/102-0235370-1744941?ie=UTF8&s=electronics

ScottThanks. I saw that, but those Amazon "storefront" resellers are as bad as using eBay. There may be good ones out there, but many are scumbags. I once bought a DVD set for $60 that was never shipped to me. Seller repeatedly lied to me and then just ignored me altogether. Took me over 2 months to get my money back from Amazon. I swore never to do it again and I haven't, and I won't.

Is that antenna an out-of-production model? If not, I should be able to find it elsewhere. Maybe Newegg?

Thanks. I saw that, but those Amazon "storefront" resellers are as bad as using eBay. There may be good ones out there, but many are scumbags. I once bought a DVD set for $60 that was never shipped to me. Seller repeatedly lied to me and then just ignored me altogether. Took me over 2 months to get my money back from Amazon. I swore never to do it again and I haven't, and I won't.

Is that antenna an out-of-production model? If not, I should be able to find it elsewhere. Maybe Newegg?
CC carries that one
http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=158311&WT.mc_n=93&WT.mc_t=U&cm_ven=COMPARISON%20SHOPPING&cm_cat=BIZRATE&cm_pla=DATAFEED->PRODUCTS&cm_ite=1%20PRODUCT&cm_keycode=93

CC carries that one
http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/productDetail.do?oid=158311&WT.mc_n=93&WT.mc_t=U&cm_ven=COMPARISON%20SHOPPING&cm_cat=BIZRATE&cm_pla=DATAFEED->PRODUCTS&cm_ite=1%20PRODUCT&cm_keycode=93

Thanks. I thought the $40+ from the Amazon reseller seemed high. The Zenith branded one never was more than $24 when Amazon had it. Another reason to avoid the Amazon storefront weasels (although Amazon is just as much a weasel when it comes to pricing (http://blahblahblah.info/2006/09/01/super-automatic-coffee-makers/) ).

Nice price difference...

Thanks. I thought the $40+ from the Amazon reseller seemed high. The Zenith branded one never was more than $24 when Amazon had it. Another reason to avoid the Amazon storefront weasels (although Amazon is just as much a weasel when it comes to pricing (http://blahblahblah.info/2006/09/01/super-automatic-coffee-makers/) ).
Amazon will take any seller with a merchant account. They have a very poor review system in place, so you're basically buying blindly.

A few years ago, before Amazon became a SellersPimp Website, they were a pretty good source. Now, I also find them worthless.

Thanks. I saw that, but those Amazon "storefront" resellers are as bad as using eBay. There may be good ones out there, but many are scumbags. I once bought a DVD set for $60 that was never shipped to me. Seller repeatedly lied to me and then just ignored me altogether. Took me over 2 months to get my money back from Amazon. I swore never to do it again and I haven't, and I won't.

Is that antenna an out-of-production model? If not, I should be able to find it elsewhere. Maybe Newegg?


Not sure what you mean. I have used both amazon and ebay for over 200 deals up to and including automobiles. Not once have I had a bad or even slightly bad experience.

Anyway, I was only giving you the link to show the antenna. Personally, I'd pick it up locally at CC.

Scott

HR20 commercial skip
OK, who ever said there is no 30/8 sec forward/back skip on the HR20? There is on mine, and I didn't have to set the secret 4 button salute.

Favorite Channels
Yes! Two custom sets. One for me and one for the wife. That was one thing I really missed having when I got my HR10.

Wind and Rewind
4 speeds vs. 3 of TIVO

D*TIVO: 0
D* DVR: 3

Off to find the device file for my Home Theater Master MX-700

One of favorite improvements with the HR20 is being able to view the guide or the playlist of recordings and still watch (and hear) live TV. :D

However, Tivo gets extra points for dual line buffers. :(

D*TIVO: 1
D* DVR: 4

Mike

Not sure what you mean. I have used both amazon and ebay for over 200 deals up to and including automobiles. Not once have I had a bad or even slightly bad experience.

Anyway, I was only giving you the link to show the antenna. Personally, I'd pick it up locally at CC.

Scott
eBay has the "industry's standard" of a system for rating their sellers, and providing that information on to potential buyers.

Amazon's barely has a rating system for their sourced sellers. If you're buying something from Amazon, that they, Amazon, has a drop-ship set up with the provider, it's all good. When you're buying something from one of Amazon's sourced sellers...it's a whole different ball game.

One of favorite improvements with the HR20 is being able to view the guide or the playlist of recordings and still watch (and hear) live TV. :D

However, Tivo gets extra points for dual line buffers. :(

D*TIVO: 1
D* DVR: 4

MikeAnd HR20 for making its single one a full 90 minutes.

I just did a search for Formula One. It found nothing, but let me set that to autorecord very easily. Faster and easier than TIVO wishlist.

D*TIVO: 1
D* DVR: 5

So far I'm not finding much to dislike here. But it's only been a few hours.

One of favorite improvements with the HR20 is being able to view the guide or the playlist of recordings and still watch (and hear) live TV. :D

However, Tivo gets extra points for dual line buffers. :(

D*TIVO: 1
D* DVR: 4

Mike

The HR20 does a 90 min buffer on (only) one line?

Drag, the dual buffer is a feature that was used quite a bit on my SD TiVo.

Hopefully future firmware updates will enable dual line buffers... :o

eBay has the "industry's standard" of a system for rating their sellers, and providing that information on to potential buyers.

Amazon's barely has a rating system for their sourced sellers. If you're buying something from Amazon, that they, Amazon, has a drop-ship set up with the provider, it's all good. When you're buying something from one of Amazon's sourced sellers...it's a whole different ball game.Amazon's "storefront" resellers and the "Offered By" resellers are different I think. I recently did well with the latter buying a camera lens. The price getting the lens from Adorama Camera thru Amazon was $540. When I went to Adorama's website directly, it was $599.

Tivo=no 2 year commitment
Tivo=no lease fee
Tivo=Can use diplexers

D* Tivo: 4
D* DVR: 1

:)

Scott

Tivo=no 2 year commitment
Tivo=no lease fee
That has nothing to do with whether its a D*TIVO or a D*DVR. It has to do with when you got the equipment and what you did to get it.

I'll give you the diplexer part. :rolleyes:
:p ;)

Amazon's "storefront" resellers and the "Offered By" resellers are different I think. I recently did well with the latter buying a camera lens. The price getting the lens from Adorama Camera thru Amazon was $540. When I went to Adorama's website directly, it was $599.
I think you're correct. When I see their "offered by" resellers, I to, go to their site, to check the pricing and merchant.

I can't imagine what you guys would do with 8 favorite lists, and 8 selectable guide views, with live video, opaque or transparent :D

And HR20 for making its single one a full 90 minutes.

I just did a search for Formula One. It found nothing, but let me set that to autorecord very easily. Faster and easier than TIVO wishlist.

D*TIVO: 1
D* DVR: 5

So far I'm not finding much to dislike here. But it's only been a few hours.

You need to give the unit about 24 hours after it starts up to build the guide data. That may be why you didn't get a hit.

Like I posted earlier, the unit has been much more stable and reliable with the last couple of firmware updates. I have encountered no restarts or lost recordings for the last two weeks (knock on wood!). 0x120 is the latest release, which you should have if the installer did his job right. The remaining bugs are much more minor than they were a month ago.

Mike

Dean, the search function doesn't work real well.

It will try to record crap on stations you don't get.

So if you tell it to record every episode of lets say Seinfeld, it will try to
record it on all channels, not just the channels you receive.

As far as the Tivo - HR20 comparisons.

MPEG4 --
HR20 - yes
HD Tivo - no

Deleting "Season Passes"
HR20 -3 seconds
HD Tivo -- minutes

Once again, you can diplex, I have my 2nd one diplexed now. It isn't the
HR20 that can't diplex, it is the 5LNB dish.

The lease fee is the same as a mirror fee, except they tax it.

And yes, they are working on giving us the Dual Live Buffers (DLB).

You need to give the unit about 24 hours after it starts up to build the guide data. That may be why you didn't get a hit.

Like I posted earlier, the unit has been much more stable and reliable with the last couple of firmware updates. I have encountered no restarts or lost recordings for the last two weeks (knock on wood!). 0x120 is the latest release, which you should have if the installer did his job right. The remaining bugs are much more minor than they were a month ago.

MikeI didn't get hits on Formula One because there isn't anything right now. The season doesn't start until next month.

It did get the SW updates. But the upstairs one wanted to get another and I was in the middle of something so I told it not to. Now I half to figure out how to restart the download. Anyone know how to force a download?

I'm not claiming D*DVR is better or worse than D*TIVO. Just doing some compare and contrast.

I didn't get hits on Formula One because there isn't anything right now. The season doesn't start until next month.

It did get the SW updates. But the upstairs one wanted to get another and I was in the middle of something so I told it not to. Now I half to figure out how to restart the download. Anyone know how to force a download?

I'm not claiming D*DVR is better or worse than D*TIVO. Just doing some compare and contrast.

You can restart the unit through the setup menu and when the blue lights start circling, enter 0 2 4 6 8 on the remote. That will force a download.

See DBSTALK for complete details, and to sign up for notification of "early releases".

Edit: You may only have to do a restart if the unit is already flagged to get the update.

Just when I thought I had all the Dish stuff....they go and change the name of their packages.

I thought I remember a discussion on not having FSMW on dish. According to their website, it is now being offered. Am I missing something?

They do have the free HD DVR, but if you want another one, you have to buy it (rather than lease) and it is $549.

My gut was right. After the installers left, I hooked up the HDMI cables and it worked on both TVs without further ado. :rolleyes:

Still need a indoor tabletop OTA. What are people recommending these days.
Dean,

I have used both the Silver Sensor and DB2 from antennas direct as indoor antennas. The DB2 is bigger than the Silver Sensor, but still small enough that it works ok as an "indoor" antenna without taking up too much space. the Silver Sensor worked well for me, but I found the DB2 to do a better job with my particular situation (walkout basement with lots of trees in the way).

I still have the Silver Sensor and have no need for it anymore. If you are interested, let me know and you can have it for a mear $10, barely used. I'm in the Fenton area.

Mike

I'm using the DB8 OUTSIDE and barely get signals and still have to rotate it to pick up everything. I'm only about 20 miles west of St. Louis, BUT directly between my house and all the towers is a large hill (I'm just on the other side of the hill at Antire Rd. and 44.

Anyway..enough crabbing...I have a question. Can anyone confirm that the HR20 will output component in 1080i and composite 480i at the same time? What about RF output? I am feeding an upstairs TV with an RF feed from my current SD Tivo (R15?) as well as a home theater at the same time. I want to drop the HR20 in to its place and change the inroom connection to component while preserving the RF (or modulated from a composite output at 480i if I have to).

You can record 3 HD programs at the same time (1 OTA and 2 satellite), while watching a 4th HD that's already recorded, and, I think, a 5th (in SD) if you have it set up for dual viewing. The 622 is an extremely versatile DVR.

I watch very little SD, but it all looks bad to me. I watch as little as possible. It's getting harder and harder even to watch DVD. I'm spoiled, very spoiled, and I fear I will die before SD goes away altogether.
So, on the Dish 622, I could watch an SD on SDTV, watch an HD on HDTV, and then record one w/ the OTA antenna/Dish tuner if I'm using the OTA. So, it has three tuners, two dish and one OTA. When you sign up to get local chanels through Dish, do those come over the normal dish, or do they give you an OTA antenna?

I still have the Silver Sensor and have no need for it anymore. If you are interested, let me know and you can have it for a mear $10, barely used. I'm in the Fenton area.

MikeI do appreciate the offer but to be perfectly honest, taking the time to drive from U City to Fenton and back to save a few dollars on an antenna doesn't hold enough value for me. I just assume swing by Circuit City.

Now if anyone wants a HR10-250 speak up cause I'm going to get rid of it now.

Just when I thought I had all the Dish stuff....they go and change the name of their packages.

I thought I remember a discussion on not having FSMW on dish. According to their website, it is now being offered. Am I missing something?

They do have the free HD DVR, but if you want another one, you have to buy it (rather than lease) and it is $549.

FSMW is offered, no change there. FSMW in hi-def is *not* available...unless you see something specifically that says otherwise now. That would indeed be new.

So, on the Dish 622, I could watch an SD on SDTV, watch an HD on HDTV, and then record one w/ the OTA antenna/Dish tuner if I'm using the OTA. So, it has three tuners, two dish and one OTA. When you sign up to get local chanels through Dish, do those come over the normal dish, or do they give you an OTA antenna?
Yes, SD on TV2 and HD on TV1. Both TV's have their own remote, and operations of both TV's is completely separate from each-other. It works just like having a second (SD) receiver next to your SDTV.

In dual application, it actually provides 4 tuners w/OTA. One is "split by the software" between TV1's PiP/Swap and TV2's dual mode use.

When you sign up for locals, you will receive them through the satellite dish.
However, you can receive the local channels through the satellite and through OTA. If you connect OTA, your guide will populate and map down the OTA channels also, and integrate them with the DVR functions.

Dish does not provide an OTA antenna, but if you have one, most installers will connect it for you, during the installation. It's not included in the installation, and solely at the discretion of the individual installer.

A&E HD is now available to subs on Dish.
Channel 9419.

There's a CSI Miami episode from '03 on now....looks pretty decent :)

OK I know this may be a little off topic, or maybe a lot but is anyone here a Nip Tuck fan? Maybe someone has season 4 recorded and we could discuss a file transfer?

HR20 commercial skip
OK, who ever said there is no 30/8 sec forward/back skip on the HR20? There is on mine, and I didn't have to set the secret 4 button salute.

Favorite Channels
Yes! Two custom sets. One for me and one for the wife. That was one thing I really missed having when I got my HR10.

Wind and Rewind
4 speeds vs. 3 of TIVO

D*TIVO: 0
D* DVR: 3

Off to find the device file for my Home Theater Master MX-700Two live, 30-minute buffers scores (at least) one for TiVo.

But great news on the 30 sec skip... :)

OK, just figured out season pass is really, really easy. Bring up the guide, select show, click REC twice. Done. No waiting. No dialogs. No confirmation.

1 for D*DVR.

Can anyone confirm that the HR20 will output component in 1080i and composite 480i at the same time? What about RF output? I am feeding an upstairs TV with an RF feed from my current SD Tivo (R15?) as well as a home theater at the same time. I want to drop the HR20 in to its place and change the inroom connection to component while preserving the RF (or modulated from a composite output at 480i if I have to).

There is no RF on the HR20. All outputs are active at the same time, so yes, you can do 1080i on the components and 480i on the composites.

OK, just figured out season pass is really, really easy. Bring up the guide, select show, click REC twice. Done. No waiting. No dialogs. No confirmation.

1 for D*DVR.

When you do the Double Rec, it sets all Season Passes to record first runs and
repeats. It also keeps 5 max and deletes when disk is full. These are the
defaults, so make sure you change as necessary.

Hey Scott...I got a new H20 today, too..My current count is
2 HR20
2 HR10-250
1 R15
1 H20
1 Zenith 520
1 SD Sony
1 SD Phillips

I am waiting for another R15 now. But I really should sell one of the HR10-250's.

When you do the Double Rec, it sets all Season Passes to record first runs and
repeats. It also keeps 5 max and deletes when disk is full. These are the
defaults, so make sure you change as necessary.I see. That is not good. I also haven't seen a way to stop the recording of a specific episode in a season pass. I record Donnybrook every week, but the guide info causes all repeats to record even though I have it set to first run. It was the same with TIVO too. So I usualy go in a manually delete the Sat/Sun repeats from the TODO list.

D*DVR -1

Hey Scott...I got a new H20 today, too..My current count is
2 HR20
2 HR10-250
1 R15
1 H20
1 Zenith 520
1 SD Sony
1 SD Phillips

I am waiting for another R15 now. But I really should sell one of the HR10-250's.

I do believe I offered you some cash for one. :) I still have $100 burning a whole in my pocket. Bill? Dean? Anyone? Bueller?

Seriously, I'd give $100 cash for one now. More if you have box, manual, remote, etc. But, honestly, you can get more than I'm offering on Fleabay.

Scott

Anyone else watch Fox primetime tonight to gather info for ktviengineering? I watched Bones and saw at least eight separate video glitches. I will either post pics later or send him an email.

Scott

:( :confused: :( :eek: :( :confused: :(

I have recieved a total of zero emails from wednesday night prime time on fox....

Unless I get feedback from the group, I have to assume this isn't a problem worth worrying about. If you logged your interference on wednesday, please send it.

If noone sends me anything, I can't do anything.

It's up to you!! (not you scott tucker, you the whole group)!
:cool:

So, on the Dish 622, I could watch an SD on SDTV, watch an HD on HDTV, and then record one w/ the OTA antenna/Dish tuner if I'm using the OTA. So, it has three tuners, two dish and one OTA. When you sign up to get local chanels through Dish, do those come over the normal dish, or do they give you an OTA antenna?

You could watch SD on one TV, HD on an HDTV and record record up to 3 programs while you're doing that, and all those could be HD (one OTA and two satellite). The satellite broadcast locals (Fox, CBS, NBC, ABC) can be recorded via the Dish tuners, while the OTA is recorded with the OTA tuner. The OTA tuner has to be connected to an OTA antenna. I'm not sure if Dish provides that. Ken?

You could watch SD on one TV, HD on an HDTV and record record up to 3 programs while you're doing that, and all those could be HD (one OTA and two satellite). The satellite broadcast locals (Fox, CBS, NBC, ABC) can be recorded via the Dish tuners, while the OTA is recorded with the OTA tuner. The OTA tuner has to be connected to an OTA antenna. I'm not sure if Dish provides that. Ken?
I think I answered that earlier...did I misunderstand his question?
When you sign up for locals, you will receive them through the satellite dish.
However, you can receive the local channels through the satellite and through OTA. If you connect OTA, your guide will populate and map down the OTA channels also, and integrate them with the DVR functions.

Dish does not provide an OTA antenna, but if you have one, most installers will connect it for you, during the installation. It's not included in the installation, and solely at the discretion of the individual installer.

:( :confused: :( :eek: :( :confused: :(

I have recieved a total of zero emails from wednesday night prime time on fox....

Unless I get feedback from the group, I have to assume this isn't a problem worth worrying about. If you logged your interference on wednesday, please send it.

If noone sends me anything, I can't do anything.

It's up to you!! (not you scott tucker, you the whole group)!
:cool:

Sorry if I missed it (there have been about a million posts here lately), but I volunteered to give you a DVD with files that show all the glitches from a whole show. I'd be glad to go through it and indicate the timecode for the glitches. Do you want me to do that? Did my stills help?

I'm a regular watcher of Bones, House and American Idol. All these shows this past week exhibited the problems we've all been complaining about for some time. Don't give up on this, please. Let me know if the video files will help. PM me, so I can't miss it.

I think I answered that earlier...did I misunderstand his question?

Sorry, Ken. I have been having trouble keeping up - preoccupied with other issues this week. You answered all the questions. I just hadn't caught up to your post when I responded.

And thanks for the tip on A&E HD.

A&E HD is MPEG2 (1440x1080), not MPEG4 as I suspected it would be, and at a very high bitrate, almost 17mbps. The quality at that setting should be really good, but I haven't had a chance to see it on the projector yet. I've just watched a few minutes on a bedroom LCD. I was surprised to see the MPEG2, since Dish has moved channels like Starz and HGTV to MPEG4. They were MPEG2 for the last few months. At a lesser bitrate, those stations look better now than when they were in MPEG2, so Dish must have solved their MPEG4 encoding issues. That paves the way for more HD from Dish - a very good thing.

A&E HD is MPEG2 (1440x1080), not MPEG4 as I suspected it would be, and at a very high bitrate, almost 17mbps. The quality at that setting should be really good, but I haven't had a chance to see it on the projector yet. I've just watched a few minutes on a bedroom LCD. I was surprised to see the MPEG2, since Dish has moved channels like Starz and HGTV to MPEG4. They were MPEG2 for the last few months. At a lesser bitrate, those stations look better now than when they were in MPEG2, so Dish must have solved their MPEG4 encoding issues. That paves the way for more HD from Dish - a very good thing.
Yes Joe, but since then, DISH has made some moves. They're moving 6 HD's on to one Tp. They are using MPEG4 compression, but when you put FOODHD, HGHD, NFLHD, STARZHD, NTGHD, &ESPN2HD all on he same transponder, somethings got to give somewhere. (they're now all on Tp30 @ 129°)

Word on the street is, there's little if any noticeable difference. I'd be interested to hear what you think once you view them on your projector, now that they've moved.

ktvi:

I had a number of them; but I didn't realize we were gathering data for you. I'll keep a log next Tuesday and Wednesday and send you the results.

As an FYI; KTVI is the only OTA station that shows this type of problem. I watched other networks last night (sorry ;) ) and had zero dropouts the whole evening.

Cheers,

O.K.

So I received my Samsung TS160 Direct TV HD receiver on Wed. and my Zenith Silver Sensor last night. I purchased both off Ebay. I ran downstairs to see what I was going to be able to get OTA for the big game on Sunday (Thanks Charter! :( ) and I couldn't get into the "select dish" because I don't have a card with the redceiver. Damn! It's been years since I had Direct TV so I overlooked that little fact. So I am guessing that even though it doesn't need to be activated, I do still need a card. Am I correct?

And if so, then will ANY card work? Like an old one with the football player on the front or does it need to be P4(?) or what? I think my brother or buddy might have an old one. And I've also seen some on the bay but I don't know if they will be here by Sunday.

Anyone local that can help out?

Thanks so much for helping my dumb-a$$ out with this!!!

And thanks for all your help getting me this far Doug!

Doc

A&E HD is MPEG2 (1440x1080), not MPEG4 as I suspected it would be, and at a very high bitrate, almost 17mbps. The quality at that setting should be really good, but I haven't had a chance to see it on the projector yet. I've just watched a few minutes on a bedroom LCD. I was surprised to see the MPEG2, since Dish has moved channels like Starz and HGTV to MPEG4. They were MPEG2 for the last few months. At a lesser bitrate, those stations look better now than when they were in MPEG2, so Dish must have solved their MPEG4 encoding issues. That paves the way for more HD from Dish - a very good thing.

Unfortunately A&E HD doesn't have a ton of HD content at this time.

I am seeing judder or similar judder-type artifacts on A&E that I'm not seeing on other channels.

PQ is ok; but nothing to write home about.

Also; Dish is working with some new MPEG-4 encoders; I think they swapped out Harmonic for Tandberg encoders and those are giving much better results. I still see some issues on MPEG-4 stations; but it isn't nearly as severe as it was.

As an example; I was watching Underworld Evolution on Starz and before the upgrade when things like lightning flashes would go off I'd get terrible macroblocking; now it's greatly reduced. I also see a little bit of "resolution pumping" -- this is where the picture seems to decrease in resolution during especially complex stretches for the encoder.

It's definitely a step in the right direction; and I hope that the encoders get further improvements so that we can go back to full resolution on the channels.

Cheers,

Yes Joe, but since then, DISH has made some moves. They're moving 6 HD's on to one Tp. They are using MPEG4 compression, but when you put FOODHD, HGHD, NFLHD, STARZHD, NTGHD, &ESPN2HD all on he same transponder, somethings got to give somewhere. (they're now all on Tp30 @ 129°)

Word on the street is, there's little if any noticeable difference. I'd be interested to hear what you think once you view them on your projector, now that they've moved.

Which street are you hanging out on? :) StarzHD went from unwatchable to watchable; that's improvement!

NTGHD, FoodHD, HGHD and ESPN2HD are all 720p broadcasts; and they already looked pretty good so I wouldn't expect a dramatic change on them. Starz is dramatically improved from where it was a few weeks ago and I haven't watched NFLHD.

Cheers,

Doc,

I've got a spare Access Card 4 you can use, though I would like it back at some point.

I know it's a bit of a haul, but if you want to pick it up I can leave it at the desk at my local Pak Mail, as I'm not going to be around much (I'm booked right through the Super Bowl on Sunday).

When you (or Charter) get your local situation resolved, you can just put it between a couple of pieces of cardboard and mail it back to me.

O.K.

So I received my Samsung TS160 Direct TV HD receiver on Wed. and my Zenith Silver Sensor last night. I purchased both off Ebay. I ran downstairs to see what I was going to be able to get OTA for the big game on Sunday (Thanks Charter! :( ) and I couldn't get into the "select dish" because I don't have a card with the redceiver. Damn! It's been years since I had Direct TV so I overlooked that little fact. So I am guessing that even though it doesn't need to be activated, I do still need a card. Am I correct?

And if so, then will ANY card work? Like an old one with the football player on the front or does it need to be P4(?) or what? I think my brother or buddy might have an old one. And I've also seen some on the bay but I don't know if they will be here by Sunday.

Anyone local that can help out?

Thanks so much for helping my dumb-a$$ out with this!!!

And thanks for all your help getting me this far Doug!

Doc

A&E HD is MPEG2 (1440x1080), not MPEG4 as I suspected it would be, and at a very high bitrate, almost 17mbps. The quality at that setting should be really good, but I haven't had a chance to see it on the projector yet. I've just watched a few minutes on a bedroom LCD. I was surprised to see the MPEG2, since Dish has moved channels like Starz and HGTV to MPEG4. They were MPEG2 for the last few months. At a lesser bitrate, those stations look better now than when they were in MPEG2, so Dish must have solved their MPEG4 encoding issues. That paves the way for more HD from Dish - a very good thing.

In the short time it's been available, I've seen nothing on A&E HD that's in HD. Shows like 24 that are only two years old are in SD. At least this is what I noticed this morning.

Why would they do that?

OK, I think the time has come for me to finally jump into a DVR (one of my VCRs died). Anyway, I have D* and I've seen a lot of recent talk about the HR20. Let me see if I get this right:

-- Outputs most resolutions on component (this is a must for me, since my older TV does not have DVI ro HDMI)
-- Will be compatible with MPG4

I know there are more, but I'm not sure it I've seen it will record OTA-HD?
Also, can anybody that has recently gone to the HR20 still received the national feed of FOX on D*88?

I'm sure there is more that I'm missing or wished I asked, so any information consolidated into one post would be nice.

Oh yeah, any suggestions on getting the best deal with D*?

So Dish was out yesterday and the install was a no-go. :( Didn't have a tall enough ladder, and when he called to arrange for one, his boss wouldn't let him up on the roof 'cause of the snow... Rescheduled for the 13th. Still on charter. *sigh*

But, at least I got me new computer up and running and vista installed...

-Matt

Oh yeah, any suggestions on getting the best deal with D*?When you call and the automated voice recognition system asks what you want, say "Cancel Service." That will take you straight to a customer retention agent. They have units and you'll get the best deal to stay. Otherwise, there are long waits to get the receivers and you pay more.

I do believe I offered you some cash for one. :) I still have $100 burning a whole in my pocket. Bill? Dean? Anyone? Bueller?

Seriously, I'd give $100 cash for one now. More if you have box, manual, remote, etc. But, honestly, you can get more than I'm offering on Fleabay.

Scott

If the R15 comes today, it is yours. I have 2 remotes for it. No box. Numerous cables I can supply if needed. PM me for the meet up.

O.K.

So I received my Samsung TS160 Direct TV HD receiver on Wed. and my Zenith Silver Sensor last night. I purchased both off Ebay. I ran downstairs to see what I was going to be able to get OTA for the big game on Sunday (Thanks Charter! :( ) and I couldn't get into the "select dish" because I don't have a card with the redceiver. Damn! It's been years since I had Direct TV so I overlooked that little fact. So I am guessing that even though it doesn't need to be activated, I do still need a card. Am I correct?

And if so, then will ANY card work? Like an old one with the football player on the front or does it need to be P4(?) or what? I think my brother or buddy might have an old one. And I've also seen some on the bay but I don't know if they will be here by Sunday.

Anyone local that can help out?

Thanks so much for helping my dumb-a$$ out with this!!!

And thanks for all your help getting me this far Doug!

Doc


I'm in St. Chuckles. I believe I have a spare/used P4 card. It came out of a recently deactivated SD Tivo.

O.K.

So I received my Samsung TS160 Direct TV HD receiver on Wed. and my Zenith Silver Sensor last night. I purchased both off Ebay. I ran downstairs to see what I was going to be able to get OTA for the big game on Sunday (Thanks Charter! :( ) and I couldn't get into the "select dish" because I don't have a card with the redceiver. Damn! It's been years since I had Direct TV so I overlooked that little fact. So I am guessing that even though it doesn't need to be activated, I do still need a card. Am I correct?

And if so, then will ANY card work? Like an old one with the football player on the front or does it need to be P4(?) or what? I think my brother or buddy might have an old one. And I've also seen some on the bay but I don't know if they will be here by Sunday.

Anyone local that can help out?

Thanks so much for helping my dumb-a$$ out with this!!!

And thanks for all your help getting me this far Doug!

Doc

Doc

Any card will work. If you have neighbors with D*, see if you can borrow a card for about 5 minutes. Once you have setup set to OTA you can return the card. Oops, it could save you a trip to see Doug.

Walt

When you do the Double Rec, it sets all Season Passes to record first runs and
repeats. It also keeps 5 max and deletes when disk is full. These are the
defaults, so make sure you change as necessary.

Yes, the defaults can be changed as follows.:

Press LIST , YELLOW button, & Select any show. Click Rec. Once, Press MENU , & then click Record Defaults.

This and much more from:

DBSTALK HR20 Undocumented Tips and Tricks (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=72648)

Mike

I had numerous blocking and lost picture issues near the end of my recording of Medium this week (D* MPEG4 on HR20, not OTA). Anyone else encounter this? I have not run into this before, so I want to be sure it isn't a hard drive issue. The snow was moving in then, so I am hoping it was happening at KSDK.

Mike

Thanks for all the input! I actually work in O'Fallon, IL. now so me Doug are practically "daytime" neighbors. That's good to know that I don't need it after initial set up.

Anything other tips for my initial OTA set up experience?

Thanks!

Doc

In the short time it's been available, I've seen nothing on A&E HD that's in HD. Shows like 24 that are only two years old are in SD. At least this is what I noticed this morning.

Why would they do that?

Sounds like TNT-HD. They don't have HD sources to play, so they stretch the SD to fill the 16x9 screen.

I had numerous blocking and lost picture issues near the end of my recording of Medium this week (D* MPEG4 on HR20, not OTA). Anyone else encounter this? I have not run into this before, so I want to be sure it isn't a hard drive issue. The snow was moving in then, so I am hoping it was happening at KSDK.

Mike

I don't remember seeing anything OTA while the wife was watching, I was watching too, but I was also surfing at the time, so I could have missed anything that occured. Although, after hearing my complain about various OTA issues, she usually mentions them to me.

:( :confused: :( :eek: :( :confused: :(

I have recieved a total of zero emails from wednesday night prime time on fox....

Unless I get feedback from the group, I have to assume this isn't a problem worth worrying about. If you logged your interference on wednesday, please send it.

If noone sends me anything, I can't do anything.

It's up to you!! (not you scott tucker, you the whole group)!
:cool:

I wanted to take care of it last night, but my Wife confiscated my laptop to do Turbotax all night. I have Bones on my Tivo, so I'll capture some pics for you ASAP.

Scott

OK, I think the time has come for me to finally jump into a DVR (one of my VCRs died).


You will never watch TV the same way again.

On a side note can someone tell me what a VCR is?????????????


Another side note. Maybe no one watches "The Office", but I love it. I was watching last night and with around 8 minutes left during the commercial break there was a point where the NBC peacock was in the center of the black screen, but very small. It kept dismantling itself and rebuilding for about 35 seconds. Very odd, I was just curious if anyone else saw it?

You will never watch TV the same way again.

On a side note can someone tell me what a VCR is?????????????


Another side note. Maybe no one watches "The Office", but I love it. I was watching last night and with around 8 minutes left during the commercial break there was a point where the NBC peacock was in the center of the black screen, but very small. It kept dismantling itself and rebuilding for about 35 seconds. Very odd, I was just curious if anyone else saw it?We have seen that peacock thing now and then while watching the NBC in HD.

We have seen that peacock thing now and then while watching the NBC in HD.

I watch a little NBC not a lot. And have just started watching the HD, because we didn't have enough HD streams with the conflicts with other shows we watched. It was odd. At first I thought they were having technical difficulties. It lasted so long. If it is only on the digital channel I wonder what it is replacing that is on the analog.

You will never watch TV the same way again.

On a side note can someone tell me what a VCR is?????????????


Another side note. Maybe no one watches "The Office", but I love it. I was watching last night and with around 8 minutes left during the commercial break there was a point where the NBC peacock was in the center of the black screen, but very small. It kept dismantling itself and rebuilding for about 35 seconds. Very odd, I was just curious if anyone else saw it?

I saw that, too. I think it has to do with KSDK not switching from the national feed to their local commercials.

You will never watch TV the same way again.

On a side note can someone tell me what a VCR is?????????????


Another side note. Maybe no one watches "The Office", but I love it. I was watching last night and with around 8 minutes left during the commercial break there was a point where the NBC peacock was in the center of the black screen, but very small. It kept dismantling itself and rebuilding for about 35 seconds. Very odd, I was just curious if anyone else saw it?

The Office is one of our favorites. My wife didn't use to like it, until she went back to work in an office (all the kids are in school now), and now its her favorite show. I believe the peacock shows up when there is a commercial on the SD channel, that for whatever reason isn't shown on the HD channel (I don't have a clue about the technology, but someone can probably explain). When HD first rolled out locally, you used to see that all the time. If you were to switch to the analog version of the channel when the peacock is showing, you would see some local commercial.

More like it had to do with KSDK forgetting to switch BACK to the HD feed after putting in the local commercials.

This was my biggest complaint with KSDK. Now that Sunday Night Football is over and NASCAR isn't on NBC, I don't know
what I really watch on there consistently.

The Office is one of our favorites. My wife didn't use to like it, until she went back to work in an office (all the kids are in school now), and now its here favorite show. I believe the peacock shows up when there is a commercial on the SD channel, that for whatever reason isn't shown on the HD channel (I don't have a clue about the technology, but someone can probably explain). When HD first rolled out locally, you used to see that all the time. If you were to switch to the analog version of the channel when the peacock is showing, you would see some local commercial.


My wife claims she doesn't like it. But everytime I get her to watch it with me I catch her laughing. My cousin said his wife is the exact same way. Last night was great just like always.

More like it had to do with KSDK forgetting to switch BACK to the HD feed after putting in the local commercials.

This was my biggest complaint with KSDK. Now that Sunday Night Football is over and NASCAR isn't on NBC, I don't know
what I really watch on there consistently.


It is a placeholder for local commercials. When I lived in Shreveport for a short time last year, the local Fox always displayed their FOX logo one all the time on the HD feed. When switched to the SD channel, there would be a local commercial.

Mark

I have to believe local advertisers can't be happy about that. Kind of ruins Scott's contention that he is missing a local ad when he watches 88 if some of the local ads aren't even making it on the screen, lol.

Has anyone else noticed that there is no closed captioning on KDNL - HD? :mad: It is OK on Charter channel 12, and OTA channel 30 but it does not come through on 30.1 - HiDef. Since I am somewhat hearing impaired (working around aircraft for 30+ years) I turn on the closed captioning to "understand" the little zingers on Desperate Housewives and Boston Legal.

I hope someone from KDNL monitors this forum as well as the "engineers" from KTVI. Once I retired from the airlines I worked Master Control at both a UPN and NBC affiliate in Wisconsin - thus the name HODAG.

Great forum here guys - it has helped me a lot. :D

PS - If you have an e-mail address for KDNL engineering I would be happy to send them a "heads up". :p

Problem was corrected, but it happens every once in a while. I had the tech from the equipment manufacturer here this week and they have acknowledged it's an issue. Feel free to call me if it goes away again...I'm out of town a lot and can't always monitor. 314-852-8355.
Jim

If the R15 comes today, it is yours. I have 2 remotes for it. No box. Numerous cables I can supply if needed. PM me for the meet up.

PM sent

Scott

Problem was corrected, but it happens every once in a while. I had the tech from the equipment manufacturer here this week and they have acknowledged it's an issue. Feel free to call me if it goes away again...I'm out of town a lot and can't always monitor. 314-852-8355.
Jim

Jim, you are the greatest. Thanks for helping out and posting when you can.

Greetings all,
I'm not a big fan of KNLC-TV, but they did
finally switch on the full power to KNLC-DT on
that new shiny tower (1,100 footer with the
strobe lights) at Hwy 21 & MM in Jefferson Cnty.
(located to the SW of the intersection).

Ch 24.1 is indeed a 'HD' stream, but is all 'SD'
programming stretched across the screen.

They are planning to add several multi-streams
in the future. This to help offset the cost of all
of that new equipment, Shiny new tower &
full power UHF DTV transmitter.

You will never watch TV the same way again.
Yes, I know. But much like my very late arrival to the digital camera era, I've been waiting for all of the features and bugs to get ironed out. Hopefully, unlike my digital camera, I will be buying the DVR that I need and not one to get me by until I can afford the one I really want.....I know, I know, that argument doesn't really work in this case.

FYI -- I just spent about 15 minutes on the telephone with a reporter from the Post-Dispatch, Michael Sorkin, who is preparing a story for Saturday's editions on the fact that Charter can't deliver the Super Bowl in HD.

Michael would like to speak with additional viewers who fall into one of two categories -- 1) those who have not been able to organize a workaround to seeing the Super Bowl in HD and who have to settle for watching in SD (or going somewhere else where it is available in HD); and 2) those who have managed to get a workaround in place in time for the big game.

If you would like to help Michael with his story, you can reach him at (314) 340-8347.

Michael is working against a deadline, so he needs to speak with you by mid-afternoon, if you're interested in sharing your experiences with him.

If you prefer, you can send Michael details of your situation via eMail at msorkin@post-dispatch.com

Problem was corrected, but it happens every once in a while. I had the tech from the equipment manufacturer here this week and they have acknowledged it's an issue. Feel free to call me if it goes away again...I'm out of town a lot and can't always monitor. 314-852-8355.
Jim


Jim,

I haven't had many complaints about ABC programming issues. Nor have I ever interacted with you. But I have to give you kudos on your forthrightness and availability to us. If all companies offered the hands on customer service and value added that you do, they would all be more successful. I wish my employees, myself included, were as helpful as you. Thank you.

Jared

Yes, I know. But much like my very late arrival to the digital camera era, I've been waiting for all of the features and bugs to get ironed out. Hopefully, unlike my digital camera, I will be buying the DVR that I need and not one to get me by until I can afford the one I really want.....I know, I know, that argument doesn't really work in this case.


I don't know about the D* DVR issues. But I have 4 E* DVRs (3 HD, 1 SD) and have very few if any issues at all with them at present time. Knock on wood.

My wife claims she doesn't like it. But everytime I get her to watch it with me I catch her laughing. My cousin said his wife is the exact same way. Last night was great just like always.

"Office" is hilarious! Steve Carell is completely over the top with his ignorance - but in a way working in a cubicle (or your own office room) can breed these kind of actions. I don't know, but it's so funny how he tries to bring everyone in the office together to interact for "movie day" or "bachelor and bachelorette" parties with strippers. These actions are absurd, but dang it's funny stuff.

I work in a cube and I know people can communicate ALOT better in these environments. The Office is a very funny and telling show. Maybe more reality than you might think. As is the great movie "Office Space"...

Spencer

Think this was posted already:

http://www.belleville.com/mld/belleville/16594566.htm


But note that this article shows up in the most read stories section. On the www.belleville.com website.

So I guess the small percentage of us that Charter says it impacts must have read this article???

On a side note can someone tell me what a VCR is?????????????

Cute, Jared :D

I have to believe local advertisers can't be happy about that. Kind of ruins Scott's contention that he is missing a local ad when he watches 88 if some of the local ads aren't even making it on the screen, lol.

Hah, someone actually listens to my B.S.? :cool:

Scott

Think this was posted already:

http://www.belleville.com/mld/belleville/16594566.htm


But note that this article shows up in the most read stories section. On the www.belleville.com website.

So I guess the small percentage of us that Charter says it impacts must have read this article???


From the article:

"Kevin Wallace, sales manager of Klein's Brand Source TV & Appliance in Fairview Heights, said keeping up with the Joneses is more important to big-screen buyers than the high-definition dispute.

"People go to someone's Super Bowl Party one year and they see that person has a great big television, so they want to go out and get their own big TV so they can host the party the next time," Wallace said."

So he is telling us his sales pitch is "Well your neighbor's TV isn't as big as this one."

I think he is doing his business a disservice with his comments.

New DISH subs, or current DISH subs who added HD programming after 12/01/06 may qualify for a $50-$100 rebate from DISH.

You can check eligibility, and print the form HERE (http://www.dishnetwork.com/redirects/promotion/100_back/Q1.349_RedemptionForm.pdf)

I've been meaning to ask.

I watch both (SD) DTV and (HD) OTA on a Samsung HLS5086 (that's the DLP model). It often seems to me that human faces, both SD and HD, look "pasty" as if a ton of pancake makeup had been troweled on.

Is this:
1) Excessive compression during transmission?
2) An artifact of the DLP technology?
3) Because I spent less than $1500 on a receiver?
4) A result of my amateur calibration (gently warmed the colors, reduced contrast, reduced color saturation)?
4) None of the above?

Thanks!

Still waiting for HD Formula One, until then my DTV will remain SD... ... ...

I've been meaning to ask.

I watch both (SD) DTV and (HD) OTA on a Samsung HLS5086 (that's the DLP model). It often seems to me that human faces, both SD and HD, look "pasty" as if a ton of pancake makeup had been troweled on.

Is this:
1) Excessive compression during transmission?
2) An artifact of the DLP technology?
3) Because I spent less than $1500 on a receiver?
4) A result of my amateur calibration (gently warmed the colors, reduced contrast, reduced color saturation)?
4) None of the above?

Thanks!

Still waiting for HD Formula One, until then my DTV will remain SD... ... ...

Maybe because there is a ton of pancake makeup that has been troweled on, and now you can actually see it. Not to point out one person in particular, but I recall when I first started watching HD you could see makeup "splurges" and some black areas on CSI: Miami on Cally's face. I can't remember her real name, that is her character name, btw she looks pretty good in the movie Breast Men with David Scwimmer from "Friends". Also I remember googling something on HD a long time ago and finding an article in a trade magazine telling makeup artists the things they would have to do differently with the advent of HD.

I've been meaning to ask.

I watch both (SD) DTV and (HD) OTA on a Samsung HLS5086 (that's the DLP model). It often seems to me that human faces, both SD and HD, look "pasty" as if a ton of pancake makeup had been troweled on.

Is this:
1) Excessive compression during transmission?
2) An artifact of the DLP technology?
3) Because I spent less than $1500 on a receiver?
4) A result of my amateur calibration (gently warmed the colors, reduced contrast, reduced color saturation)?
4) None of the above?

Thanks!

Still waiting for HD Formula One, until then my DTV will remain SD... ... ...

I have seen what you describe on my plasma sometimes. Especially in dark areas. I believe this is referre to as macroblocking.

Scott

FYI -- I just spent about 15 minutes on the telephone with a reporter from the Post-Dispatch, Michael Sorkin, who is preparing a story for Saturday's editions on the fact that Charter can't deliver the Super Bowl in HD.

Michael would like to speak with additional viewers who fall into one of two categories -- 1) those who have not been able to organize a workaround to seeing the Super Bowl in HD and who have to settle for watching in SD (or going somewhere else where it is available in HD); and 2) those who have managed to get a workaround in place in time for the big game.

If you would like to help Michael with his story, you can reach him at (314) 340-8347.

Michael is working against a deadline, so he needs to speak with you by mid-afternoon, if you're interested in sharing your experiences with him.

If you prefer, you can send Michael details of your situation via eMail at msorkin@post-dispatch.com

This is the same reporter I spoke with about a cracked limb over the power lines. The tree limb was inspected the next day and removed on Monday morning.

Just know he may use your name as he did mine. I found that part out after the fact.

This is the same reporter I spoke with about a cracked limb over the power lines. The tree limb was inspected the next day and removed on Monday morning.

Just know he may use your name as he did mine. I found that part out after the fact.

Next time someone asks your name just say Mo. BTW, I like your real name. :)

Scott

Next time someone asks your name just say Mo. BTW, I like your real name. :)

Scott

Thanks Scott. I like it too. :o Just a "tad" Irish. Most people misspell it or drop that third syllable. My family and friends call me Mo.

Thanks Scott. I like it too. :o Just a "tad" Irish. Most people misspell it or drop that third syllable. My family and friends call me Mo.

Being Irish is brilliant! Guinness for everyone!! :)

Being Irish is brilliant! Guinness for everyone!! :)

Guinness huh? When I used to drink I didn't bother with Guinness. I went straight for the Irish whiskey. :eek:

Just got off the phone with DISH, they are refunding me the $200 I initially paid Jan 24th for the 622! Monthly charge stays the same.

This is good news for me since I ordered it in Jan so I would have it before the superbowl. Because of the snow this week, I can't get installation until Feb 13th now, so I'm stuck with Charter and OTA...

BTW, if anyone wants a SD Tivo or a Sony DHG HDD250 HD DVR (CableCard ready), PM me, I'll let it go cheap/trade.

Just got off the phone with DISH, they are refunding me the $200 I initially paid Jan 24th for the 622! Monthly charge stays the same.

This is good news for me since I ordered it in Jan so I would have it before the superbowl. Because of the snow this week, I can't get installation until Feb 13th now, so I'm stuck with Charter and OTA...

BTW, if anyone wants a SD Tivo or a Sony DHG HDD250 HD DVR (CableCard ready), PM me, I'll let it go cheap/trade.
Once you get your credit, send in the rebate form (see my earlier post today).
They will never marry the two together, and will give you the rebate also.

I've been meaning to ask.

Is this:
4) A result of my amateur calibration (gently warmed the colors, reduced contrast, reduced color saturation)?


There's your answer ;)

Cheers,

Hi...I'm new to the forum, but a long time DVR (Tivo/DTivo) user. I've spent some time the last couple of days catching up on the forum posts. I also decided to call DTV and schedule the installation of a new HR20 (currently have an HR10-250 and a series 2 DTivo). I've been reading up on the HR20, including some of the Tips and Tricks. I have a question concerning the multiswitch that hopefully someone can answer (apologize if it has been answered before and I missed it). I currently have a 4x8 multiswitch installed with a 3 LNB dish. One of the tips involved requesting a 6x8 multiswitch. Today when I called to request this multiswitch, I was told that only two runs from the 5 LNB dish would be required and that my current multiswitch could still be used. Is this a true statement? At this point, I plan to replace the series2 receiver with the HR20, leaving it and the HR10-250 subscribed.

Thanks for any help in this manner. I want to be sure I'm prepared and the installer brings everything that is required.

Sounds like TNT-HD. They don't have HD sources to play, so they stretch the SD to fill the 16x9 screen.

But it's not even stretched. It's in 4X3 and is mirroring the SD channel at 118 (E*). the only difference is the HD bug in the lower left right black bar

I can't even watch TNT-HD without taking dramamine for sea sickness. That would be my favorite channel if they didn't muck it up.

Scott

But it's not even stretched. It's in 4X3 and is mirroring the SD channel at 118 (E*). the only difference is the HD bug in the lower left right black bar
CSI Miami was on in produced HD last night. It was an '03 episode.
There's a bunch of CSI's on tonight...I'm getting them all in 16:9 HD on 9419.
Cold Case is on now, and it is an SD production, showing on both in 4:3.

Have a look at the CSI's later tonight, they're on from 6PM on.

Hi...I'm new to the forum, but a long time DVR (Tivo/DTivo) user. I've spent some time the last couple of days catching up on the forum posts. I also decided to call DTV and schedule the installation of a new HR20 (currently have an HR10-250 and a series 2 DTivo). I've been reading up on the HR20, including some of the Tips and Tricks. I have a question concerning the multiswitch that hopefully someone can answer (apologize if it has been answered before and I missed it). I currently have a 4x8 multiswitch installed with a 3 LNB dish. One of the tips involved requesting a 6x8 multiswitch. Today when I called to request this multiswitch, I was told that only two runs from the 5 LNB dish would be required and that my current multiswitch could still be used. Is this a true statement? At this point, I plan to replace the series2 receiver with the HR20, leaving it and the HR10-250 subscribed.

Thanks for any help in this manner. I want to be sure I'm prepared and the installer brings everything that is required.


I am not a expert but I have one hr20 and two standard boxes to power three tvs and I was installed wednesday and it was not right with a 3x4.The installers came back ran two more lines from the dish and the switch was removed and every thing works fine now.I also have the slimline 5 lnb.No switch was needed on mine.

There's your answer ;)
Could be, but my photographic experience has been that reduced contrast and saturation tend to soften the skin, not make it harsh and pasty.

I'll try the "Standard" and "Movie" preset modes the next time I see it, and then I can tell if it was me.

Think this was posted already:

http://www.belleville.com/mld/belleville/16594566.htm


But note that this article shows up in the most read stories section. On the www.belleville.com website.

So I guess the small percentage of us that Charter says it impacts must have read this article???
Besides e-mailing Charter about their quote in the article, I also e-mailed Kleins Brand Source about their idiotic comment about HD customers. With friends like that...

Joseph-- I have exactly the same break-up problem with OTA 11.1 on my Dish Network 622 (also unwatchable). An old first generation Zenith OTA tuner also shows the problem with 11.1 but with less severity. Signal strength is high with my rooftop antenna in Saint Charles.

I've been having the most frustrating time trying to pick-up good reception on KPLR-DT with a Dish 622. All the other local stations come in great with 90 or higher signal strength on all stations. KPLR-DT has 90's or higher, but will pixelate drop out every few minutes. I just went to the trouble to mount my DB2 (double bow-tie) antennae outside thinking it would solve the problem. Of course, the signal strength is even better on all stations, but the drop-outs still occur on 11.1 It's very frustrating to come to this forum to find out the problem is from Dish and/or KPLR-DT. Can all Dish 622 users, picking up 11.1 OTA confirm they have this problem? If so, we should all call KPLR and Dish until they resolve this. I spoke with Craig, an engineer at KPLR today. He had no knowledge of a specific problem with the Dish 622, but said they've gotten numerous calls about reception problems in the last few weeks.

Thanks,
Andrew

I've been having the most frustrating time trying to pick-up good reception on KPLR-DT with a Dish 622. All the other local stations come in great with 90 or higher signal strength on all stations. KPLR-DT has 90's or higher, but will pixelate drop out every few minutes. I just went to the trouble to mount my DB2 (double bow-tie) antennae outside thinking it would solve the problem. Of course, the signal strength is even better on all stations, but the drop-outs still occur on 11.1 It's very frustrating to come to this forum to find out the problem is from Dish and/or KPLR-DT. Can all Dish 622 users, picking up 11.1 OTA confirm they have this problem? If so, we should all call KPLR and Dish until they resolve this. I spoke with Craig, an engineer at KPLR today. He had no knowledge of a specific problem with the Dish 622, but said they've gotten numerous calls about reception problems in the last few weeks.

Thanks,
Andrew
Andrew,
When you connected your OTA, did you use the 622 OTA tuner?

EDIT: NM, I'll respond to your PM :)

Once you get your credit, send in the rebate form (see my earlier post today).
They will never marry the two together, and will give you the rebate also.


Printed and waiting on the first bill, my friend! ;) :D

-Matt

This is the same reporter I spoke with about a cracked limb over the power lines. The tree limb was inspected the next day and removed on Monday morning.

Just know he may use your name as he did mine. I found that part out after the fact.Mo,

I'm obviously not privy to the details of your conversation with the Post reporter, but I thought it worth mentioning here that anytime anyone speaks with a reporter, you should understand that you are "on the record" and anything you say could appear in print. Any reporter worth his/her salt will ask you your name and your address or company so that you can be properly identified if they decide to use your comments in the story, either directly or indirectly.

In most cases, a reporter won't allow you to go "off the record" unless you have made it clear that you are speaking on background. A good editor won't allow the use of anonymous quotes in a reporter's story, particularly in a situation where the person quoted is central to the issue covered in the story, such as your complaints/frustration with Ameren. The basic thinking here is that if you won't allow your name to be put to your comments, those comments aren't worth using.

Of course, the use of "anonymous" quotes is common in political stories or in other situations where there are no or few other sources that can provide specific information, and/or where revealing the identity of the speaker compromises that person in some way. The fact that this happens so frequently is one of the big problems in journalism today.

A source close to Doug was quoted as saying.... :D

Mo,

I'm obviously not privy to the details of your conversation with the Post reporter, but I thought it worth mentioning here that anytime anyone speaks with a reporter, you should understand that you are "on the record" and anything you say could appear in print. Any reporter worth his/her salt will ask you your name and your address or company so that you can be properly identified if they decide to use your comments in the story, either directly or indirectly.

In most cases, a reporter won't allow you to go "off the record" unless you have made it clear that you are speaking on background. A good editor won't allow the use of anonymous quotes in a reporter's story, particularly in a situation where the person quoted is central to the issue covered in the story, such as your complaints/frustration with Ameren. The basic thinking here is that if you won't allow your name to be put to your comments, those comments aren't worth using.

Of course, the use of "anonymous" quotes is common in political stories or in other situations where there are no or few other sources that can provide specific information, and/or where revealing the identity of the speaker compromises that person in some way. The fact that this happens so frequently is one of the big problems in journalism today.

I too had a conversation with Mr. Sorkin today, and exchanged a couple of emails.
He came across having a genuine interest in the public concerns.
Though our communications were brief, I came away feeling he is a refreshing example of today's journalist.
All too often, it seems to be all about the story. IMO, I found him to be all about gathering the facts, to report the story. :)

When you connected your OTA, did you use the 622 OTA tuner?

Yes, I only used the 622 OTA tuner, since my HDTV doesn't have an ATSC tuner.

Thanks,
Andrew

Hi...I'm new to the forum, but a long time DVR (Tivo/DTivo) user. I've spent some time the last couple of days catching up on the forum posts. I also decided to call DTV and schedule the installation of a new HR20 (currently have an HR10-250 and a series 2 DTivo). I've been reading up on the HR20, including some of the Tips and Tricks. I have a question concerning the multiswitch that hopefully someone can answer (apologize if it has been answered before and I missed it). I currently have a 4x8 multiswitch installed with a 3 LNB dish. One of the tips involved requesting a 6x8 multiswitch. Today when I called to request this multiswitch, I was told that only two runs from the 5 LNB dish would be required and that my current multiswitch could still be used. Is this a true statement? At this point, I plan to replace the series2 receiver with the HR20, leaving it and the HR10-250 subscribed.

Thanks for any help in this manner. I want to be sure I'm prepared and the installer brings everything that is required.

I stole this off the dbs forum.


DBSTalk Club Member

Join Date: Jan 21, 2003
Location: Wilds of West Michigan
Posts: 2,222
User# 1922

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dish VIP View Post
I stand corrected, I think? Have always been confused on this but have seen lots of info stating that a Zinwell WB68 Switch was needed on AT-9 and early production AU-9 dishes. Anyhow, doesn't matter to me anymore, as I am positive my WNC AU9 Revision 1B for sure has a built-in multiiswitch. Says so on the box.

On that note, I have another important question:

Will two outputs or just one (like Dish Pro Plus) be required for the dual-tuner HR20?

Yes, it has a built in multiswitch. If you only have 4 total tuners and thus only need 4 cables then you don't need an external switch. Just run the 4 cables direct to the receivers.

But if you need more then 4 tuners then you need shte Zinwell WB68. Then you run the 4 cables from the dish to the Zinwell. Now you have up to 8 outputs so you can have up to 8 tuners.

2 cables to a DVR (like the HR20) is required for dual tuner mode. Earl says they are working on a FTM solution which would only require 1 cable but it's not here yet.
__________________
Scott

Yes, I only used the 622 OTA tuner, since my HDTV doesn't have an ATSC tuner.
Thanks,
Andrew
I answered your PM in detail. For others following this, it is pretty much established the issue is not resulting from reception, be it, by dish antenna, or OTA antenna.
DISH has acknowledge the issue, though it has not been said to me, or have I read it anywhere, whether the issue lies with how KPLR is sending the data to DISH, or how DISH is sending KPLR's data to subscribers.

It does seem DISH is a constant, whether it be by SAT or OTA. I see the same issues on both the 622 and 211, using either SAT or OTA. Charter and DTV subs do not report any of the same issue(s), and most report using other than a DISH tuner (SAT or OTA) the issue is not present.

It does seem DISH is a constant, whether it be by SAT or OTA. I see the same issues on both the 622 and 211, using either SAT or OTA. Charter and DTV subs do not report any of the same issue(s), and most report using other than a DISH tuner (SAT or OTA) the issue is not present.

I'm confused. I'm 99.99% sure that Dish doesn't offer KPLR-DT over satellite so one can only get KPLR-DT using the 622's OTA tuner. So the problem only relates to the OTA reception of 11.1 on the 622, right? It's a good thing this forum exist since all my effort and frustration to get decent 11.1 reception wouldn't have improved anything?

I'm confused. I'm 99.99% sure that Dish doesn't offer KPLR-DT over satellite so one can only get KPLR-DT using the 622's OTA tuner. So the problem only relates to the OTA reception of 11.1 on the 622, right? It's a good thing this forum exist since all my effort and frustration to get decent 11.1 reception wouldn't have improved anything?
It's the same ATSC tuner, SAT or OTA. Correct, no KPLR-DT on DISH.
The issue seems to relate to receiving 11.1 through a DISH VIP receiver, 622 or 211, and it's something either DISH or KPLR needs to change.

Switching to Charter would improve it :eek:

All Dish VIP 622 users having problems receiving 11.1 KPLR-DT please call Craig in engineering at KPLR. You can reach him at 314-447-1111 or KPLRTech@tribune.com. He's a very nice guy and wants us to get good reception of KPLR-DT. He was unaware of any specific problem with the VIP 622 Dish receiver and his station. Please let him know so we can get this fixed.

Thanks,
Andrew

Anyone else having problems with the EPG showing data on the sub channels on the 622 from Dish? I re-activated my dish account yesterday and when the EPG downloaded I was suprised that the PBS sub channels had data. Even 5.2 and 11.2 showed something. But today only 9.3 has data and all the other sub channels are back to the old "Digital Service". I tried forcing the EPG to download again by doing a check switch, but do help.

Switching to Charter would improve it :eek:

So would switching to Directv! :eek: I really never have problems with 11.1.

Scott

All Dish VIP 622 users having problems receiving 11.1 KPLR-DT please call Craig in engineering at KPLR. You can reach him at 314-447-1111 or KPLRTech@tribune.com. He's a very nice guy and wants us to get good reception of KPLR-DT. He was unaware of any specific problem with the VIP 622 Dish receiver and his station. Please let him know so we can get this fixed.

Thanks,
Andrew

I've sent several emails to kplr and they have not replied.

All Dish VIP 622 users having problems receiving 11.1 KPLR-DT please call Craig in engineering at KPLR. You can reach him at 314-447-1111 or KPLRTech@tribune.com. He's a very nice guy and wants us to get good reception of KPLR-DT. He was unaware of any specific problem with the VIP 622 Dish receiver and his station. Please let him know so we can get this fixed.

Thanks,
Andrew

I get glitches with my MyHD OTA capture card, too. It's just that MyHD recovers from them a lot better. The 622 acts like someone slapped it to the floor and then kicked it - literally unwatchable. I have been able to catch all the recent Smallville episodes on MyHD, but the glitches are noticeable and distracting. They did not used to be there on either the Dish 622 or the MyHD. I think this is more a KPLR problem. It started sometime late last year. If a KPLR tech can identify a change in hardware or software about that time, we may have a clue about where the problem originated.

I have these episodes recorded on the computer, so if Craig wants, I'll extend the same offer to him as I did to our KTVI member - I'll send the whole episode on a double layer DVD and it can be viewed to see exactly where the breakups occur. You can view on virtually any newer PC with VLC or Media Player Classic. I'll even go through the episode and point out exactly where the glitches occur, if he'd like.

Anyone else having problems with the EPG showing data on the sub channels on the 622 from Dish? I re-activated my dish account yesterday and when the EPG downloaded I was suprised that the PBS sub channels had data. Even 5.2 and 11.2 showed something. But today only 9.3 has data and all the other sub channels are back to the old "Digital Service". I tried forcing the EPG to download again by doing a check switch, but do help.
Chuck,
DISH is in the midst of moving hundreds of local subs EPG data...many being added, some being moved.
Mine (5.2, 9.1, 9.2, 9.4) are also out tonight, and were fine yesterday. Same thing happened a few days ago. After tonight's self-update, you may find it corrected. If the location of the EPG data has been effected, it takes an auto-update to correct.

A source close to Doug was quoted as saying.... :D



I too had a conversation with Mr. Sorkin today, and exchanged a couple of emails.
He came across having a genuine interest in the public concerns.
Though our communications were brief, I came away feeling he is a refreshing example of today's journalist.
All too often, it seems to be all about the story. IMO, I found him to be all about gathering the facts, to report the story. :)

This is for Doug too. :)
He was able to solve an issue that Ameren recorded incorrectly and would have taken weeks to resolve. He was interested enough to go all the way up to Susan Gallagher and a quick response from Ameren followed. I was surprised he quoted my email as well and just wanted to give folks a heads up. Not all of us know how the press works. I think he's a good guy and I'm very pleased that he felt my situation warranted his attention.

Mediacom Cuts Sinclair Deal

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6413225.html?display=Breaking+News

Mediacom Cuts Sinclair Deal

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6413225.html?display=Breaking+News

Thanks for the info

Here's the P-D story:

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/stories.nsf/stlouiscitycounty/story/E259301B1973D0598625727700107DC7?OpenDocument

KSDK Sets Cards TV Schedule, Weighs Up Conflict Options

This story is more about the conflicts than the actual schedule of KSDK games. I'm checking around to try to find a link to the actual schedule. Based on previous reports, all Cards' games televised by KSDK will be in HD.

From Dan Caesar's weekly column in the Post-Dispatch:
___________________________________________________________

KSDK has finalized its Cardinals schedule for this season, as it returns to televising Redbirds games for the first time since 1987. But it hasn't determined what it will do with numerous events it will bump in order to accommodate the Cards.

Channel 5 is the local NBC affiliate and that network has a considerable amount of sports programming on Sunday afternoons, when KSDK is scheduled to televise 17 of its 21 Cards games.

Affected are four NHL playoff games, including one conference semifinal contest, two major tennis tournaments — the French Open and Wimbledon — and the final round of three significant golf events — the U.S. Women's Open, the men's Deutsche Bank tourney, which is part of the new season-ending playoff system, and the men's Tour Championship.
___________________________________________________________

To read the full story, click here (http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/sports/stories.nsf/cardinals/story/670F9448344F79038625727600141C22?OpenDocument)

Here's a link to the Cards' 2007 Schedule, with the games that KSDK will be broadcasting in HD indicated by a "K."

http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/stl/downloads/2007_schedule.pdf

The big missing piece here, in terms of HD Cards' broadcasts in 2007, is the number and specific games that FOX Sport Midwest plans to show in HD.

Mediacom Cuts Sinclair Deal

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6413225.html?display=Breaking+NewsIt seems more than a little strange that KDNL would be available via cable in the Springfield/Decatur/Champaign area and not in St. Louis. Better yet, what if it was Belo, not Sinclair, that Mediacom had reached agreement with?

Some questions for anyone who knows more about this:

Roughly what percentage of viewers in central Illinois are able to receive KDNL via antenna -- I wouldn't think this would be feasible with a typical rooftop antenna? Is there no other ABC station serving this market? If you were a satellite customer in this market and you weren't able to receive the KDNL signal via antenna, would you be eligible for a waiver? Or, if you live in one of these markets, would KDNL be one of your local digital stations provided direct from the satellite by DISH or DirecTV?

There seem to be some interesting "territorial" aspects to this.

OK everyone, don't get mad at ME for answering doug's questions about my market in YOUR forum - but he DID ask! :D ;)

It seems more than a little strange that KDNL would be available via cable in the Springfield/Decatur/Champaign area and not in St. Louis. Better yet, what if it was Belo, not Sinclair, that Mediacom had reached agreement with?

Well first of all, KDNL is NOT available in the S/D/C markets, per see - I'm not sure where you came to that conclusion with my posting. :confused: Also not sure what Belo has to do with this - AFAIK, Belo is only having the catfight with Charter, who I know is the predominate cable system in your area. (ours predominate cable provider is actually Insight, who serves S/D/C/Lincoln proper - Mediacom only serves some of the smaller towns around me, like Jacksonville, etc & some very outlying areas in Sangamon county. BUT, those same Mediacom subs up here ALSO lost ABC, since WICS/WICD were pulled as well)

However, Mediacom DOES have a few cable systems in YOUR market; they are in the northern regions of the St.Louis DMA in IL, which means they are south of me. (but NOT in my DMA) And you can obviously see in the link I provided that KDNL was one of the affected stations for this little catfight of Sinclair's.

Roughly what percentage of viewers in central Illinois are able to receive KDNL via antenna -- I wouldn't think this would be feasible with a typical rooftop antenna?

Not with any "typical rooftop antenna" you sure aren't. Now, if you do a BIG antenna/pre-amp/50-60' tower, then you might have a chance. Now, when you start moving south of Springfield (around Virden/Girard) then you have a chance - and THOSE actually are part of the St.Louis DMA, at least according to Nielsen anyway & that is also where they get local networks from on DBS. (the dividing line between Macoupin/Sangamon county is where the S/D/C market ends & the STL market starts) BUT, most of the cable systems in this ALSO carry some of the Springfield stations as well. (usually at least WICS-ABC)

Is there no other ABC station serving this market?

Of course - WICS (for the Springfield/Decatur side) & WICD (for the Champaign side) They are really sister stations & are both owned by the Sinclair cartel. But something you might find amusing - on BOTH DBS systems, they ONLY provide WICS, regardless of WHERE you are in our market. So what that means for our viewers in Champaign, they do NOT get the local news for THEIR area within our DMA on DBS, but instead get OURS, while their cable counterparts get their actual local station. (yea, we got a REALLY screwed up market up here... :rolleyes: :eek: )

If you were a satellite customer in this market and you weren't able to receive the KDNL signal via antenna, would you be eligible for a waiver? Or, if you live in one of these markets, would KDNL be one of your local digital stations provided direct from the satellite by DISH or DirecTV?

Explained all above...
(BUT FYI - some of my satellite customers, DO get STL locals "illegally", instead of "legal" S/D/C locals, by "moving". We do this for various reasons, but most started because S/D/C did NOT have locals until just a couple years ago, so this was a way to get the networks through the dish, w/out having to do the waiver BS, or needing an outside antenna to get the nets clearly. Many of my customers choose to keep STL locals even AFTER we got ours, because yours are better for several reasons. Other clients choose to get locals out of Chicago, for the same reasons - I actually get BOTH, in addition to "real" locals off cable & OTA, (& Denver nets) so I'm pretty much set. :D ;) )

There seem to be some interesting "territorial" aspects to this.

Not at all really - you just have to understand where the county lines are in IL that determine if you are in the STL or S/D/C DMA. I have to know these things, since I do get DBS clients that DO fall within your market, as I explained above. ;)

Here's a link to the Cards' 2007 Schedule, with the games that KSDK will be broadcasting in HD indicated by a "K."

http://stlouis.cardinals.mlb.com/stl/downloads/2007_schedule.pdf

The big missing piece here, in terms of HD Cards' broadcasts in 2007, is the number and specific games that FOX Sport Midwest plans to show in HD.
FSN HD has yet to announce HD schedules for any of the teams.
As soon as they do, which should be very shortly, you will be able to view them HERE (http://msn.foxsports.com/story/1530967)

It appears KSDK will do around 20. There's another 12 national already scheduled, with the rights for FOX and ESPN to "take" two more, each.
Last season, FSNMW tossed around different quantities of HD broadcasts, 20-30-40.
Either way, we should see at least 50 produced in HD, maybe as many as 75 :)

I stole this off the dbs forum.


DBSTalk Club Member

Join Date: Jan 21, 2003
Location: Wilds of West Michigan
Posts: 2,222
User# 1922

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dish VIP View Post
I stand corrected, I think? Have always been confused on this but have seen lots of info stating that a Zinwell WB68 Switch was needed on AT-9 and early production AU-9 dishes. Anyhow, doesn't matter to me anymore, as I am positive my WNC AU9 Revision 1B for sure has a built-in multiiswitch. Says so on the box.

On that note, I have another important question:

Will two outputs or just one (like Dish Pro Plus) be required for the dual-tuner HR20?

Yes, it has a built in multiswitch. If you only have 4 total tuners and thus only need 4 cables then you don't need an external switch. Just run the 4 cables direct to the receivers.

But if you need more then 4 tuners then you need shte Zinwell WB68. Then you run the 4 cables from the dish to the Zinwell. Now you have up to 8 outputs so you can have up to 8 tuners.

2 cables to a DVR (like the HR20) is required for dual tuner mode. Earl says they are working on a FTM solution which would only require 1 cable but it's not here yet.
__________________
Scott

Thanks for the info. When I called, I told them I wanted to leave the series 2 attached as well (for a total of six cables), and I was told the old multiswitch work work. I figured from what I had read previously the CSR didn't know what he was talking about.

Just in time to pull in KMOV for the superbowl.

http://www.hackaday.com/2007/02/01/diy-hd-antenna/

dimensions and plans for a more temporary design:
http://www.lumenlab.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=9613&st=0

Also, can anybody that has recently gone to the HR20 still received the national feed of FOX on D*88?


Kurt,

I don't think anyone answered you on this. I still get 88, but I have both an HR10 and HR20. I seem to remember reading that only customers that kept a non-MPEG4 HD receiver activated continued to receive 88.

Anyone have just the HR20 and still get it?

Mike

I don't think anyone answered you on this. I still get 88, but I have both an HR10 and HR20. I seem to remember reading that only customers that kept a non-MPEG4 HD receiver activated continued to receive 88.

Anyone have just the HR20 and still get it?I lost 88 last summer when I added my second HR10-250 to my first. And no amount of arguing got it back (although I did get them to throw in SuperFan on my NFL ST).

I just replaced both HR10 receivers with the HR20 on Thursday, so I definitely don't get it.

Anyone have just the HR20 and still get it?

I still have 88 but it has only been a week since I upgraded to the HR20.
I also still have one HD Tivo on my account so I don't know if that helps.


Good luck,
Token

New customer here and I do not get it.

I added a 2nd HR10-250 last night and still get 86 and 88 just fine.

Scott

I stole this off the dbs forum.


DBSTalk Club Member

Join Date: Jan 21, 2003
Location: Wilds of West Michigan
Posts: 2,222
User# 1922

Quote:
Originally Posted by Dish VIP View Post
I stand corrected, I think? Have always been confused on this but have seen lots of info stating that a Zinwell WB68 Switch was needed on AT-9 and early production AU-9 dishes. Anyhow, doesn't matter to me anymore, as I am positive my WNC AU9 Revision 1B for sure has a built-in multiiswitch. Says so on the box.

On that note, I have another important question:

Will two outputs or just one (like Dish Pro Plus) be required for the dual-tuner HR20?

Yes, it has a built in multiswitch. If you only have 4 total tuners and thus only need 4 cables then you don't need an external switch. Just run the 4 cables direct to the receivers.

But if you need more then 4 tuners then you need shte Zinwell WB68. Then you run the 4 cables from the dish to the Zinwell. Now you have up to 8 outputs so you can have up to 8 tuners.

2 cables to a DVR (like the HR20) is required for dual tuner mode. Earl says they are working on a FTM solution which would only require 1 cable but it's not here yet.
__________________
Scott

Thanks for the info. When I called, I told them I wanted to leave the series 2 attached as well (for a total of six cables), and I was told the old multiswitch work work. I figured from what I had read previously the CSR didn't know what he was talking about.

I have no Ch.11 tonight via sat w/D*

Noted that tonight, Sat 3 FEB 07, KSDK 5-2 was much "softer" on graphics, titles, etc. Almost analog in quality. (Worse than the KETC sub-channels, in fact) Looks like it is getting fewer bits. New sub-channel coming, or has the HDTV bitching paid off? Any bitstream analysis would be welcome.

Noted that tonight, Sat 3 FEB 07, KSDK 5-2 was much "softer" on graphics, titles, etc. Almost analog in quality. (Worse than the KETC sub-channels, in fact) Looks like it is getting fewer bits. New sub-channel coming, or has the HDTV bitching paid off? Any bitstream analysis would be welcome.

The main stream on Law and Order SVU is 16.35 mbps, so the bitrate probably isn't much lower than we're used to seeing. You just can't steal bits from an MPEG2 1080i stream and expect the image not to suffer.

If you're a Back to the Future fan, you should know that HDNet is showing all three movies tonight. Check your guide.

If not the the Boltz, then it must be the Colts.

Scott

As a past subscriber to Dish (I terminated around 16 months ago) I've been told by E* that I'm ineligible for any "deals" to sign back up. The costs to purchase necessary hardware are prohibitive, so now I turn to DirecTv. Would one of you long-time D* subscribers clarify how FSNMW is handled for the St Louis area?

1) Is SD FSNMW included in either the Total Choice or Total Choice Plus packages, or would I have to add the $12/mo. Sports Pack? Does the Sports Pack only provide the regional-appropriate FSN channel, or all listed FSN channels?

2) Is FSNMW available in HD? Is it a part of the standard HD package, or only included if both Sports Pack and HD is ordered? I got the impression that D*s HD FSNMW is considerably limited as compared to Charter.

Any other advice for a potential D* subscriber? I have one HDTV, two standard, want 1 HD DVR and one SD DVR. I do have OTA antenna, fine signal for all channels for my HDTV. Want to take OTA to a DVR as well. Thanks much.

1) Is SD FSNMW included in either the Total Choice or Total Choice Plus packages, or would I have to add the $12/mo. Sports Pack? Does the Sports Pack only provide the regional-appropriate FSN channel, or all listed FSN channels?

2) Is FSNMW available in HD? Is it a part of the standard HD package, or only included if both Sports Pack and HD is ordered? I got the impression that D*s HD FSNMW is considerably limited as compared to Charter.

Any other advice for a potential D* subscriber? I have one HDTV, two standard, want 1 HD DVR and one SD DVR. I do have OTA antenna, fine signal for all channels for my HDTV. Want to take OTA to a DVR as well. Thanks much.

1. FSN in SD is included. You do not have to get the Sports Pak.
2. FSN is not in HD full time. Selected events are provided on the special events HD channel from time to time. You have to subscribe to the HD package to get any HD channel, including FSN when available. Furthermore, once you do so, you will not get SHO HD or HBO HD unless you subscribe to them separately as well.
3. If you want the HD DVR it is going to be the HR20-700 if you get it from DirecTV. There is now a wait for these -- I heard until April/May, both from another subscriber and the installers who did my HR20s this week. Otherwise, you can look for a HR10-250 on eBay, etc.

Didn't DISH have an offer of a free HD DVR recently. I thought they announced that at CES.

As a past subscriber to Dish (I terminated around 16 months ago) I've been told by E* that I'm ineligible for any "deals" to sign back up. The costs to purchase necessary hardware are prohibitive, so now I turn to DirecTv. Would one of you long-time D* subscribers clarify how FSNMW is handled for the St Louis area?

1) Is SD FSNMW included in either the Total Choice or Total Choice Plus packages, or would I have to add the $12/mo. Sports Pack? Does the Sports Pack only provide the regional-appropriate FSN channel, or all listed FSN channels?

2) Is FSNMW available in HD? Is it a part of the standard HD package, or only included if both Sports Pack and HD is ordered? I got the impression that D*s HD FSNMW is considerably limited as compared to Charter.

Any other advice for a potential D* subscriber? I have one HDTV, two standard, want 1 HD DVR and one SD DVR. I do have OTA antenna, fine signal for all channels for my HDTV. Want to take OTA to a DVR as well. Thanks much.

FSNMW is available in SD & HD in Total Choice. AFAIK, nothing else is needed. Fox will show some of the games in HD but most are in SD. I have the MPEG-2 Tivo based unit so I don't know if it's different with the new DVR.

As far as the antenna goes, have the installer run a direct line. Make sure they ground it at the same time. I had them run a direct line and they forgot to ground it.

1. FSN in SD is included. You do not have to get the Sports Pak.
2. FSN is not in HD full time. Selected events are provided on the special events HD channel from time to time. You have to subscribe to the HD package to get any HD channel, including FSN when available. Furthermore, once you do so, you will not get SHO HD or HBO HD unless you subscribe to them separately as well.
3. If you want the HD DVR it is going to be the HR20-700 if you get it from DirecTV. There is now a wait for these -- I heard until April/May, both from another subscriber and the installers who did my HR20s this week. Otherwise, you can look for a HR10-250 on eBay, etc.

Didn't DISH have an offer of a free HD DVR recently. I thought they announced that at CES.

Dean, are you sure about having to sub to the HD package for FSNMW? I don't think that has anything to do with it.

There is a HR10-250 for sale on Craig's List.

Dean, are you sure about having to sub to the HD package? I don't think that has anything to do with it.
At least it used to be that way. No HD package, no HD channels period (Fox 88 for example). Now that they do locals too, maybe it has changed.


There is a HR10-250 for sale on Craig's List.If you are talking about the one from yesterday with a picture, that is mine, and sale is pending. Just got off the phone with buyer.

My DISH bill went up $10.00/mo with the new pricing effective 02/01/2007.
Essentially, they've decreased the overall tier package prices, but raised the HD tier price.

On another note, a couple of weeks ago I called Charter Retention, and was, quite easily, able to get my stand-alone 5mg Pipeline reduced from $59.95/mo to $24.99/mo.

At least it used to be that way. No HD package, no HD channels period (Fox 88 for example). Now that they do locals too, maybe it has changed.

If you are talking about the one from yesterday with a picture, that is mine, and sale is pending. Just got off the phone with buyer.

I have had the HD package for free for almost a year so I never thought about it.

The HR10-250 for sale post is in U-City. Guess that's you then.

Way OT. Is anyone here a subscriber to TechNet Plus or MSDN?

If so, please PM me.

Good thing I didn't plan a SB party. My bulb just blew in my AE-700.
Looks like a SD SB for me:(

Dave

The HR10-250 for sale post is in U-City. Guess that's you then.Yes, it is sold and picked up.

I am looking for a stb that would work well in a valley, at the bottom of a large hill, with the hiill, trees and powerlines in the direction of the tv towers, in unincorporated South St. Louis County. I have Charter, which doesn't carry all the local digital channels, and I don't like Charter service. I am interested in getting the OTA and unencripted cable, not D* or E* (I think.) Without Charter, analog reception shows up to 5 ghosts, while digital breaks up frequently.I have tried several set-top boxes over the last 4 years, including a DTC100, an Accurian, several panasonics, a Sumsung H260F and an earlier one (150, I think,) and LG 4200. None picks up all the stations. I have an amplied Siver Sensor, which works better than the unamplified silver sensor I had (which works well at son's house in mid-county.) I have tried a vhf/uhf Weingard 6870(?) without much success. Would a HR10-250 work? A series 3 HD Tivo? Wait for a dvd recorder with an atsc tuner? Any other suggestions? Thanks in advance.

I am looking for a stb that would work well in a valley, at the bottom of a large hill, with the hiill, trees and powerlines in the direction of the tv towers, in unincorporated South St. Louis County.
This is going to be an antenna issue, not a tuner issue. You are going to have to get it up in the air.

1. FSN in SD is included. You do not have to get the Sports Pak.
2. FSN is not in HD full time. Selected events are provided on the special events HD channel from time to time. You have to subscribe to the HD package to get any HD channel, including FSN when available. Furthermore, once you do so, you will not get SHO HD or HBO HD unless you subscribe to them separately as well.
3. If you want the HD DVR it is going to be the HR20-700 if you get it from DirecTV. There is now a wait for these -- I heard until April/May, both from another subscriber and the installers who did my HR20s this week. Otherwise, you can look for a HR10-250 on eBay, etc.

Didn't DISH have an offer of a free HD DVR recently. I thought they announced that at CES.

Thanks for the reply. The DISH free HD DVR offer (along with any other deal) applies to new subscribers, or so I was told by the CSR.

Good thing I didn't plan a SB party. My bulb just blew in my AE-700.
Looks like a SD SB for me:(

Dave


Just picked up an Optoma HD70 DLP projector. I'll have to tilt it a bit for my setup. Hopefully it won't be so much that it requires keystoning.

Off to Home Depot for new mounting screws.

Dave

Anyone else having problems with KPLR 11.1? I have great signal strenght (97-100) on my 622 dish receiver, but frequently I'll loose signal, then it come back. It's does the same thing with the TV's tuner. I know from the last storm we had my antenna moved a little because KETC's signal has dropped some cause some problems, but not sure if that would cause the problems with KPLR.

Thanks for the reply. The DISH free HD DVR offer (along with any other deal) applies to new subscribers, or so I was told by the CSR.
Current subs can upgrade to, or add an additional 622 for $149.99, with a $50.00 rebate, and $10.00 off programming fees for 10 months. Net result is a 1¢ credit.

Question on Dish...

If I go with Dish Network and get the HD DVR, am I correct in thinking that I will need 2 coax runs from the dish to the DVR? Then another 1 out if I want it to go to another tv?

Tim

Question on Dish...

If I go with Dish Network and get the HD DVR, am I correct in thinking that I will need 2 coax runs from the dish to the DVR? Then another 1 out if I want it to go to another tv?

Tim
One run from the switch to the HD DVR. The amount of downfeeds from the dish to the switch, depends on which programming. If you're going to get the HD package and locals, you will have 4 from the dish to the switch, and then 1 from the switch to each receiver.
Even though the 622 has a dual-tuner, only one feed is required to the back of the 622.

I just got a Samsung Direct TV receiver so I could watch the SuperBowl in HD Today.(Boo Charter :mad: ; Thanks Dwette!!! :D )

My question(s); I have the OTA receiver hooked to an old style (>30 y/o) antenna on my roof in the old section of St. Charles. I am getting a nice picture on all the channels but do get breakups on all KETC multicast channels alot. CBS will break up occassionally. When I check the signal strength it will go : 45%, 10%, 35%, 68%, 30%, etc.....changing about every 5 secs. (Q1) Is this normal to vary so much? (Q2) Should I be expecting higher? (Q3)Should I get a new type antenna? (Q4) Should I get a signal booster? Questions, Questions.....but now I need to go watch the game!

Wayne

One run from the switch to the HD DVR. The amount of downfeeds from the dish to the switch, depends on which programming. If you're going to get the HD package and locals, you will have 4 from the dish to the switch, and then 1 from the switch to each receiver.
Even though the 622 has a dual-tuner, only one feed is required to the back of the 622.

Thanks, I appreciate all your help.

Tim

When I check the signal strength it will go : 45%, 10%, 35%, 68%, 30%, etc.....changing about every 5 secs.
Any chance the feedline is flapping in the breeze? Your symptoms suggest an intermittent feedline connection that the wind could move, or tree branches blowing into the path.

Any chance the feedline is flapping in the breeze? Your symptoms suggest an intermittent feedline connection that the wind could move, or tree branches blowing into the path.

Dan, Great suggestion. I ran 50' of new coaxial cable up to and since it was a little chilly :o yesterday I just ran the line and was planning on tacking it down later (spring?). I just went out and tighten things up by wrapping around other lines but...... to no success. I have tried three different "rabbit ears' type also and the results are exactly the same so it must be some other factor. While I was up on the roof I noticed that this ole antenna is really in bad shape with some broken portions that may be the cause. I am on the opposite side of a hill from STL. I have a friend with one of the new fangled HDTV antennas so I'll probably borrow it to see if that will help.

Any other ideas?

Wayne

Hi,
I'm tuned into kmov for the superbowl ota with an rca dtc100 receiver and I seem to be getting excessive very low bass. Is that just how they're broadcasting it or am I picking up some spurious signal somehow? I'm getting a decent signal (82-89)
Thanks in advance,
Joe H

Just picked up an Optoma HD70 DLP projector. I'll have to tilt it a bit for my setup. Hopefully it won't be so much that it requires keystoning.

Off to Home Depot for new mounting screws.

Dave

Let us know how you like it. That has to be one of the best buys ever for an HD projector.

Please wipe the rain drops off of the camera lense...

I ran 50' of new coaxial cableIs the antenna designed for coax, or did you have to use balun transformer? Connections clean and tight, or old and rusty?

that this ole antenna is really in bad shape with some broken portions that may be the cause.<G>

I am on the opposite side of a hill from STL.Less an issue than you might suppose. Did you notice that several here have gotten better results by pointing the antenna UP as much as 10 to 30 degrees?

I have a friend with one of the new fangled HDTV antennas so I'll probably borrow it to see if that will help.AFAIK "HD antenna" = "UHF antenna." Mo and others had some recommendations a few messages up-thread -- may have even been the old (January) thread. I'm still using a beat-up old antenna I put on the roof about 25 years ago. Fortunately the busted elements are for the VHF half.

I added a 2nd HR10-250 last night and still get 86 and 88 just fine.

Scott

Thanks guys, and Scott you definitely aren't the norm since you are grandfathered with all of the national feeds (or at least what I think I remember).

and Scott you definitely aren't the norm :D

Dan, Thanks for the replies. I have no idea if it is designed for coax...probably not since it is so old. Connections were clean and I just bought an adapter to connect to the two thumb screws on the antenna.

But get this, and I have heard something similar from a friend of mine that see this same phenomenon. He claims he only gets breakups on sunny days and none when it is cloudy. He contends that the signals bounce off the clouds and stay in the lower atmosphere and escape when it's sunny. :rolleyes:

For me today, as soon as the sun went down the break-ups stopped and KMOX HD has been nearly perfect ever since. Even weirder yet I checked the signal strength and it still doing the 35%, 79%, 0% 45%, etc. i.e. no change.

Even though I am a scientist, this has me puzzled, but us biologists don't know nothun bout lectricity! :D

Edit: This looks like the one Mo suggested:
>>>>>>>ChannelMaster 4221:

http://www.hdtvprimer.com/ANTENNAS/cm4221.html

You can buy it locally for $20-22 at Skywalker in O'Fallon.>>>>

Wayne

<><><><><><><><><><><><><><<><><><

Is the antenna designed for coax, or did you have to use balun transformer? Connections clean and tight, or old and rusty?

<G>

Less an issue than you might suppose. Did you notice that several here have gotten better results by pointing the antenna UP as much as 10 to 30 degrees?

AFAIK "HD antenna" = "UHF antenna." Mo and others had some recommendations a few messages up-thread -- may have even been the old (January) thread. I'm still using a beat-up old antenna I put on the roof about 25 years ago. Fortunately the busted elements are for the VHF half.

I just bought an adapter to connect to the two thumb screws on the antenna.If the "adapter" has a type F coax connector at one end and either TV twinlead or two screws for same at the other end, it is a "balun transformer." Those are designed to convert a 300-ohm BALanced feed (twinlead) to a 75-ohm UNbalanced feed (coax).

http://www.maplin.co.uk/images/Full/FD78K.jpg http://homepage.mac.com/kenwetzel/Low_Loss_Balun_files/image003.jpg

Yes, than I guess I did get one like that at Lowes on the right but the body was more compact. It was even made for external use with a rubber protective cover. Thanks for the definition, looks like I learned something today.
Wayne

Dan, thanks for your reply of "This is going to be an antenna issue, not a tuner issue. You are going to have to get it up in the air." I am probably 75' below the height of the trees and 1/2 mile long hill. How high would I need to go? (WAF is a factor). Any suggestions on antenna, since I have (I think) multipath and a weak signal? Thanks in advance for all sugestions!

What a great Super Bowl that was! Correct me if I'm wrong, though - has there ever been another Super Bowl where both quarterbacks played for the same team?

BTW, the picture quality matched the quality of play on the field.

Current subs can upgrade to, or add an additional 622 for $149.99, with a $50.00 rebate, and $10.00 off programming fees for 10 months. Net result is a 1¢ credit.

The $10/off for 10 months is only for new HD subscribers. If you are an existing HD customer you don't get the additional $10 off/month.

Cheers,

What a great Super Bowl that was! Correct me if I'm wrong, though - has there ever been another Super Bowl where both quarterbacks played for the same team?

BTW, the picture quality matched the quality of play on the field.

Good or bad?

I was underwhelmed with consistent macroblocking and other artifacting. Did KMOV drop the subchannel? From the look of things I'd say not.

Cheers,

:D

:p

The $10/off for 10 months is only for new HD subscribers. If you are an existing HD customer you don't get the additional $10 off/month.
Cheers,
Thanks for the correction John...sorry I didn't specify that. It does only apply to current non-HD subs. :)

Good or bad?
I was underwhelmed with consistent macroblocking and other artifacting. Did KMOV drop the subchannel? From the look of things I'd say not.
Cheers,
It seemed to me, to be worse in the 2nd half, than the 1st. It looked much like a FOX/KTVI broadcast. CBS/KMOV is usually better than it was today.

At the very least, FOX could have stayed away from the continual use of that camera with the fogged-up lens and water-spots :eek:

SuperBowl: The sound pops coming back from commercial were the biggest complaint I had. I didn't notice too much macroblocking, but the sound pops were unavoidable.

Good or bad?

I was underwhelmed with consistent macroblocking and other artifacting. Did KMOV drop the subchannel? From the look of things I'd say not.

Cheers,

I guess my attempt at humor flew about as well as Grossman's passes. :o

You can blame the wet lenses and rain for the milky look, but the blocking artifacts were awful. You can't steal bits from a 1080i stream. These are the dark ages of local HD, and if the trend continues it will get even worse. Woe, woe!

Let us know how you like it. That has to be one of the best buys ever for an HD projector.



Overall the projector produces an incredible picture for the money. The brightness was up there with my AE-700. But the colors really pop. My wife even commented how much better it looked during the Cirque pregame show.

2 things are leading me to try the Mits HC3000.
1) Offset - Because I want to retain my 106" screen I have to mount the projector at about 14'. Unfortunately this is just past an air duct, so not only do I have 8, ceilings, but I also have a mount that drops it to 7'. As a result I really have to tilt the projector to get it up on the wall. While the HC3000 has about the same offset, it also has a 1280x768 so I can use image shift to compensate a little.

Why can't someone make a low cost 720P DLP with 0 offset :mad:

2) There is a small amount of light spill. Don't know if this can be adjusted, but when I zoom my image out to fill the screen, about 3" of light show on either side of the screen border. Since my border is only 1" I can see a light ring arount my screen. It's very faint, but it's there.

Unfortunately I cannot do a direct comparison to my 3 year old AE700, but from memory I can say the colors popped more, there is no definitive pixel structure and
the overall picture looked considerably better. I put Ice Age 2 in my PS3 and again I noticed more vibrant colors. I also noticed the lack of FPN in the blue sky scenes, something that has bothered my with LCD since I read about it. Sometimes ignorance is bliss.

I don't know If football & commercials is condusive to RBE, but I didn't notice it during standard viewing. In fact the only time I did notice I was trying induce it (shaking head back and forth, darting eyes back and forth across the screen)
So I don't think it's much of an issue.

I'm going to pick up the HC3000 today and I'll post a comparison later.
Dave