St. Louis, MO - OTA [Text View]

Pages : [1] 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

DroptheRemote

12-02-03, 07:48 AM

* There are two ways to receive local digital/HD broadcasts in the St. Louis area. The first, and by far simplest, is to subscribe to Charter Cable. Unfortunately, Charter doesn't currently provide all of the available St. Louis digital stations. To date, Charter is offering KTVI-DT (FOX), KMOV-DT (CBS), KSDK-DT (NBC), KETC-DT (PBS) and KPLR-DT (WB).

WRBU-DT (UPN) is not offered by Charter, but this isn't a major issue, since WRBU's digital station isn't capable of passing the UPN network's HD programs. And with the pending merger of UPN and the WB, this is even less a pressing issue.

* On the other hand, if you're a satellite customer, or you're only interested in receiving the free OTA digital chanels, you'll need some sort of antenna -- either indoor, attic or roof mount.

* Forget most of what you know about receiving traditional analog television via an antenna, as digital broadcasting is for the most part a different animal.

The first and most important thing to know is that digital signals, once received, tend to be highly stable. The sort of artifacts that you may recall about pre-cable antenna reception of local stations isn't all that relevant to digital reception. For example, in the digital realm there's no visual equivalent to the analog artifacts known as "snow," or "ghosting."

And in most cases, a digital signal won't slowly fade in and out as was sometimes the case in fringe analog reception areas. For the most part, with digital broadcasts you either receive the signal and have a near-perfect picture and sound, or you won't get anything at all.

In addition, barring significant topographical or architectural obstacles between your location and the transmission towers, digital signals appear to be more robust in terms of distance they can travel without degradation. While it's the exception rather than the rule, there are instances where digital OTA signals have been received as far as 120 miles from the tower.

So, just because you may have had difficulty with OTA analog signals in the past at your location, that doesn't necessarily mean you won't be able to receive digital OTA signals.

* All of the current St. Louis digital/HD stations are currently broadcasting in the UHF spectrum. The UHF channel assignments for local stations appears below:

26 - KPLR (WB)
31 - KDNL (ABC)
35 - KSDK (NBC)
39 - KETC (PBS)
43 - KTVI (FOX)
47 - WRBU (UPN)
56 - KMOV (CBS)

Today, all St. Louis stations are "simulcasting," with the traditional analog broadcasts via one frequency and the digital/HD broadcasts through another. For example, KMOV sends its analog broadcasts out as VHF channel 4 and then simulataneously sends its digital broadcasts as UHF channel 56.

As the transition to digital broadcasting progresses, there will come a time when the analog broadcasts will be discontinued and stations will only be transmitting digitally. While this switch from analog to digital was originally scheduled to take place in 2006, it's almost certain that the analog shutdown will be deferred for at least a few years.

Note: The analog shutdown has now been set by Congress for February 17, 2009. This seems a FIRM date, but there are some observers/commentators who believe that not enough has been done to date to inform viewers of the impending change and they suggest that this shortcoming could lead to further delay of the analog shutdown.

* While the signals for digital/HD broadcasts are made up of binary data (zeros and ones), from a viewer perspective, there's nothing special about the antenna required to receive those broadcasts. As noted above, the actual transmission takes place over the UHF spectrum. That means that if you already have an old UHF-capable antenna on your rooftop or in your attic, there's a good chance that it will receive some, and possibly all, of the available local digital broadcasts. The only way to conclusively determine if that older antenna will carry you into the digital age is to test it.

However, it is possible that in order to maximize signal integrity you might need to upgrade the cable run from an existing antenna to your distribution point(s), especially if the antenna uses the flimsy ribbon-type cable connection. If you need to replace the cable for an existing antenna, RG-6 quad-shield coax is recommended. A 1,000-foot roll of RG-6 quad coax can be purchased for around $75, though it is possible to buy smaller quantities at a higher per-foot cost.

* If you're starting from scratch and need to purchase an antenna, there is some merit in selecting a UHF-only antenna. While a combo VHF-UHF antenna would likely work in many situations, a UHF-only antenna will normally give better, more reliable results. If you do have an existing antenna and it isn't capable of pulling in all of the stations in the area, there's a good chance that swapping out for a UHF-only antenna would result in better reception.

* Without officially endorsing one antenna over another, here are some suggestions that should work for most viewers within a 45-mile radius of the St. Louis transmission towers.

But first, bear in mind that antenna reception is one part art and one part science. What works in one location might not work across the street due to topographical or physical obstacles in the signal path at that second location. But that sort of anomaly is rare, and antenna reception is normally achievable with some reasonable effort and determination. But it is important to understand that there are no certainties and the only way to find out what can be received with an antenna in a given location is to test one yourself or arrange for one to be installed by a proven installer.

For outdoor or attic antennae, ChannelMaster sells at least two UHF-only models that you should consider -- the CM4221 (retail approximately $30 -- tax not included), which is a 4-bay rated for 45 miles, and the CM4228 (retail $50), which is an 8-bay rated for 60 miles. Winegard has the Prostar 1000 model PR-4400 rated for 45 miles, and the PR-8800 rated for 60 miles. Radio Shack also sells a UHF-only antenna (catalog # 15-2160, $30 retail) that is worth considering.

As a general suggestion, avoid antennas that appear to be working overtime to not look like an antenna. While it's true that traditional antennae are unattractive and a lot of people consider them to be eyesores to be avoided at all cost, the newer streamlined, aerodynamic antennae seem to compromise reception capability in exchange for a more friendly appearance.

For indoor antennas, there are many options here as well, but the current performance leader is the Zenith Silver Sensor (ZHDTV1). The Silver Sensor used to be available at several stores here locally, but recently distribution has dried up and the only sure way of finding the SS is going to be online. Figure on a cost of around $40.

The excellent performance of the Silver Sensor is probably in part due to the fact that Zenith actually designed the technology responsible for the transmission of OTA digital/HD signals, known as 8VSB.

Again, there's no reliable way to predict if an indoor antenna will work in your location, short of buying one and testing it. The good news here is that most of the major retailers have reasonable return policies, so it's unlikely that you'll be out major bucks if it turns out that an indoor antenna isn't up to the job in your home.

DroptheRemote

12-02-03, 08:09 AM

Q: I have excellent reception of all of the local digitals -- most of the time. But occasionally one of the stations will be lost for 30 or 40 seconds, breaking up and then coming back with a very strong signal.

Why does this happen, and what can be done to eliminate the problem?

A: This sounds like a case of multipath interference.

Multipath is just what it sounds like -- the signal from one or more stations is arriving at your antenna from multiple paths, most likely as a result of it bouncing or reflecting off some topographical or man-made object as it travels between the the station transmitter to your home. In the analog world, multipath resulted in out-of-sync, multiple images on screen that were often referred to as ghosts; in the digital world, the second signal causes the receiver to null out the signal until it can lock on a single signal. This explains why you intermittently receive picture/sound and then nothing.

Multipath can be fiendishly difficult to eliminate, but antenna placement can help. If you can, move your antenna a few feet left or right, up or down, or play with angle of orientation. The goal in repositioning is to try to find a spot where the antenna will not see the secondary signal that is causing the multipath.

Over time the digital receivers have become more adept at rejecting multipath signals, with each generation doing slightly better in this regard than the last. If you're using an older receiver, an upgraded, more current receiver may help, but there's no guarantee that would cure your problem.

Also, a directional antenna (like a yagi attic/roof antenna) will perform better in installations where multipath problems occur. Multi-direction antennas are better at pulling in more stations without adjustments, but they sometimes increase the incidence of multipath issues.

Q: Sometimes the pictures on my local digital stations are fantastic, but a lot of the time they don't look that much better than what I was receiving over cable or satellite previously.

Why? Is there something wrong with my television or OTA receiver?

A: At this point in the transition to digital HDTV, local stations are only providing a small portion of their daily broadcast schedule in the HD format. In almost all cases, the only HD programming available is when the local station's national network affiliate provides a program in the HD format, and the local station passes it on via its digital channel.

As a result, HD broadcasts are largely limited to prime-time programming, with the main exception being certain sporting events that are broadcast live in HD, such as selected NFL games, the Olympics, some college basketball games, some golf tournaments, etc.

Whenever a local station isn't receiving and passing on an HDTV network broadcast, they simulcast and "upconvert" their local programming on the digital channel. You probably understand the concept of simulcasting, but "upconverting" may require some explanation.

In order to simplify this, let's take the example of local channel KSDK-DT. Whenever KSDK-DT is sending an HDTV program, they send it in the 1080i HD format. Likewise, when they transmit a "standard definition" program, they are also sending it in the 1080i format by taking the original NTSC (480i) signal and electronically converting it to the same 1080i format used for HD.

The important thing to understand is that "upconverting" is not a magical process of transforming a sow's ear (NTSC programming) into a silk purse (HDTV). The limiting factor is the resolution of the original picture. If the original source material was created in the 480i format, there's no way to create HD resolution out of thin air.

This is similar to trying to convert a Polaroid snapshot into a professional studio portrait. There's no question that the professional photographer or film processor could make the Polaroid snapshot larger or produce it on nicer stock, but the end results are never going to be confused with a picture that originated as a studio portrait using higher-resolution film and equipment.

As in the case of NTSC programming, the limiting factor is the original resolution when the image was captured.

Q: Why can't I change the screen mode for my television on the OTA digital channels?

A: Digital broadcasts (for the most part) are required to send their images out as a widescreen (16x9) picture. Although it's not always obvious from looking at the images, where black bars appear on the sides, these are actually formatted as part of the picture sent by the station.

One other point about digital broadcasts and your HD monitor. Many consumer televisions assume that when they receive an HD signal that the picture is being sent in widescreen format. In some cases this will limit or (more commonly) completely prevent the viewer from changing how the picture is formated onscreen. While the screen mode or aspect ratio controls for your set can be used with standard-definition programming, they may be non-functional or limited when your set is displaying either upconverted SD or true HD OTA broadcasts.

Q: I understand that HDTV supports the Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound format, but this doesn't appear to be working on my sound system. Is there a problem with my OTA receiver or my A/V receiver.

A: It's true that Dolby Digital 5.1 is part of the ATSC specification for HDTV broadcasting. However, there are a few conditions that need to be considered before determining what you're receiving and whether there's a problem with your equipment.

1. You need to have in place equipment capable of receiving and processing DD5.1 broadcasts (a DD5.1-compliant A/V receiver or processor) and you need to be using a digital audio connection between your OTA receiver and A/V receiver or sound processor. There are basically two types of digital audio connections, one that makes use of coaxial cables and the other using optical cables.

You will need to consult the user manuals for your OTA receiver and audio equipment to ensure that you are making the correct connections for your particular equipment and configuration.

2. DD5.1 broadcasts require special equipment to be installed at the local station. Although you may know that a specific program is being sent by the network in the DD5.1 format, if the local station here isn't able to process and decode the DD5.1 soundtrack, you won't be able to hear the DD5.1 mix in your home theater.

Here's a list of the stations in St. Louis and their ability to send Dolby Digital 5.1:

26 (11-2) -- KPLR (WB) - yes
31 (30-1) -- KDNL (ABC) - yes
35 (5-1) -- KSDK (NBC) - yes
39 (9-1) -- KETC (PBS) - no
43 (2-1) -- KTVI (FOX) - yes
47 (46-1) -- WRBU (UPN) - no
56 (4-1) -- KMOV (CBS) - yes

Also, here is the Dolby Digital 5.1 status of some of the major cable/satellite HD stations:

HBO-HD -- yes
ESPN-HD -- no
BRAVO-HD -- yes
Discovery HD Theater -- yes
HDNet Movies -- yes
HDNet -- yes
TNT-HD -- no
NBC-HD East/West -- yes *
CBS-HD East/West -- yes *
FOX-HD East/West -- yes **

* = only available to St. Louis viewers who obtain a written waiver from the local affiliate

** = the East Coast FOX out-of-market feed is now available to all St. Louis-area DirecTV HD subscribers who are paying for the local channels package. No waiver will be required for receipt of the the East Coast FOX feed, as KTVI, the local FOX affilliate, is directly owned by FOX television. (updated 1/2005).

3. Not all programs are available in the Dolby Digital 5.1 format, so even where one of the stations listed above is shown to be capable of transmitting DD5.1 broadcasts, if the program isn't created with a DD5.1 soundtrack, the local station won't be able to send in that format.

As an example, although KMOV-DT is capable of providing Dolby Digital 5.1 sound, "Everybody Loves Raymond" is not produced with a DD5.1 soundtrack. On the other hand, although "NYPD Blue" is produced with a DD5.1 soundtrack, local station KDNL-DT isn't currently equipped to handle DD5.1 broadcasting.

I've yet to find a completely reliable source of information about HD programming that includes a DD5.1 soundtrack, but HDTV Magazine Program Guide is the best that I've found so far:

http://www.hdtvmagazine.com/programming/guide.php

In order to customize the guide for the local and/or cable/satellite channels you receive, it will be necessary to register with HDTV Magazine and set up a profile listing your stations. Note that the DD5.1 designations in the HDTV Magazine grid are "program-specific" and therefore won't accurately reflect the ability of the local station to provide DD5.1.

Q: I'm not clear on the difference between "true HD" and "upconverted HD." Take for example the "Hogan's Heroes" re-runs that sometimes are shown on HDNet -- how can a show that wasn't originally recorded in HD be considered real HD?

A: I think your skepticism about "true HD" comes from a misunderstanding of the difference between "upconversions" and true HD programming. The "Hogan's Heroes" example you mention is a good way to illustrate the distinction.

Let's pretend for a moment that one of our local St. Louis stations holds the local syndication rights to "Hogan's Heroes" re-runs and that these programs are based on the same film-to-NTSC video transfers that appeared when the series was a first-run sitcom on CBS a couple of decades back.

When the local station shows "Hogan Heroes" reruns, the picture quality over the station's analog channel will be largely the same as any other NTSC prime-time drama or comedy series. However, when the show is transmitted on the local station's digital channel, it will be electronically upconverted to either 1080i or 720p, depending on which HD standard this particular station normally uses.

Note the words "electronically converted," because what happens when the program appears on the digital channel is that the 480 lines of NTSC video resolution are "reconstituted" to match the station's 720- or 1080-line digital broadcast. The important thing to understand in the hypothetical example here is that even though "Hogan's Heroes" is being converted to 720p or 1080i broadcast formats, the underlying video is still only 480 lines of resolution -- an electronic conversion can't create resolution beyond what existed in the original video frames.

On the other hand, what HDNet has done is to go back to the original film masters of the "Hogan's Heroes" series and performed a true "HD transfer" of those film frames to 1080i HD.

At the risk of oversimplifying the process, HDNet has "re-scanned" the film master in order to capture more of the resolution that existed in the original film frames of the series but that was lost when the film was converted to 480-line NTSC video. At the same time, HDNet has exposed more of the original film frame in order to fill (or nearly fill) the 16x9 aspect ratio mandated in the HD standard.

One other point that may be muddying the waters for you is the dfference between HD that originates via film (most theatrical-release films and most prime-time TV dramas or sitcoms) and HD that originates as true HD video (live sports, concerts, etc).

In general, HD that originates as HD video may have clearer and more lifelike quality to it, but in fact, 35mm or 70mm film contains as much (actually more) inherent resolution as the highest ATSC HD video standard (1080p x 1920). While they do appear different and you may think HD native video looks better, when a film-to-HD transfer is done properly, it qualifies as "true HD."

DroptheRemote

12-02-03, 09:23 AM

abcward,

Widescreen direct-view sets pretty much top out at 36 inches, though RCA was making a 38-inch widescreen for a while and I think that same tube appeared under a couple of other brands.

Based on my own experience, Sony and Panasonic both make very good widescreen HDTV direct views. I haven't worked on any of the Toshiba widescreen direct-views, but I've heard generally positive comments from fellow calibrators. All worth checking out.

There's also Loewe (I seem to recall that is one the brands using the 38" RCA tube) to consider, but the prices for these are generally a fair bit higher than Sony, Toshiba or Panasonic. Very nice styling, though, if WAF is an issue.

The other option is to look at LCD or plasma panels. Frankly, I think LCD panels at this sort of size are a horiffically bad value. And you'd probably need to drop down to a 37-inch plasma to fit your space, which may swing the cost/benefit ratio in a negative direction there, too.

If the upstairs TV isn't going to be your primary set for critical viewing, it might also make sense to look at the SONY 40-inch 4x3 XBRs. Very good compromise for all the 4x3 material out there, but still a pretty decent widescreen size (roughly a 36-inch diagonal) when you're watching HD or a DVD. These sets are monstrous in terms of heft, so make sure ahead of time that wherever you're planning to put it that it can handle the weight.

DroptheRemote

12-04-03, 07:21 AM

Geo,

It would appear that your satellite guy used to work at Best Buy or Circuit Ciy, where chronic cluelessness is a badge of honor.

No, there is no way to get LOCAL HD channels direct from the satellite. The CBS network HD feed is available on DISH, but to be eligible to receive this would require a written waiver signed by the local station manager. Frankly, you'd have a better shot at getting the pope to agree to send you a monthly ration of condoms.

Whether it's DirecTV or DISH, you will need a satellite receiver with a built-in OTA digital tuner and a UHF indoor or attic/rooftop antenna.

I'd trust your instincts and move on to find another satellite company that actually knows something about the business they're in.

DroptheRemote

12-05-03, 08:59 AM

Can anyone direct me to a web or FTP site where I can download the user manual for the Motorola set-top box currently used by Charter for its HD service?

Any other documentation on this box (in particular, the service manual) would also be useful.

DroptheRemote

12-05-03, 10:46 AM

abcward,

Thanks for the quick reply. I really appreciate it.

DroptheRemote

12-07-03, 10:21 AM

Just wanted to pass along my thanks to John Kotches for hosting our December local meeting, especially in view of the frustrations he's been having with getting all the bits and pieces in place.

But at least there's a silver lining from all that -- "The Shipping in Two Weeks Theater" is a very cool name for a home theater. :cool:

I regret I couldn't stay longer, but I was definitely impressed by what I did hear and see while I was there. Between the sound, the pictures and the refreshments, everything was great. Thanks again, John.

I'm definitely looking forward to seeing everyone at the next meeting in February. That's tentatively set for The Sound Room, and I assume that Matt Lien will be providing more details after the holidays.

DroptheRemote

12-08-03, 09:26 AM

Does anyone definitively know how the Charter HD STBs are outputting programming that originates as 4x3 480i programming, such as cable channels CNN, ESPN (SD), History Channel, The Food Network, etc.?

From reviewing the Motorola user manual, I see that there is a 4x3 Override setting that allows the user to specify how 4x3 broadcasts are displayed. Unfortunately, this setting is apparently not accessible through the Charter interface.

As a result, I have two questions:

1. How has Charter configured these boxes for 4x3 programming display, in terms of scan rate (480i, 480p, something else)?

2. Is there a way to change this option via the Charter interface?

Thanks in advance for any information or suggestions.

DroptheRemote

12-08-03, 09:53 AM

abcward,

Thanks again for the help on this.

Now I know who to turn to on all matters relating to Charter's STB... :)

I really appreciate the quick response.

David Bott

01-23-07, 11:13 AM

This thread continued from...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=454301

Thanks

wmschultz

01-23-07, 11:16 AM

Oh no....Someone needs to fix the shortcut now.

So, we are responsible for bringing the server to it's knees?

matth1138

01-23-07, 11:25 AM

wtf?

David Bott

01-23-07, 11:29 AM

Nothing is wrong...But when threads start to get real large that can actually hurt the site in performance. Thats all. Thanks

wmschultz

01-23-07, 11:30 AM

We used to rotate the thread monthly, maybe we should do it semi annually now.

tcfila

01-23-07, 11:32 AM

Who takes care of changing the stlhdtv.info forward?

wmschultz

01-23-07, 11:32 AM

I don't remeber who set it up....I'm sure they'll chime in soon.

Kurt K

01-23-07, 11:33 AM

Nothing is wrong...But when threads start to get real large that can actually hurt the site in performance. Thats all. ThanksWill the old thread still exist or be archived?

djearl81

01-23-07, 11:33 AM

Role Call...

Everyone make it over?

Mr_Bester

01-23-07, 11:40 AM

So far, but whoever did the stlhdtv.info needs to get here quick, I may never be able to jump to the latest post...I don't know what I'll do....I might have to get some work done....gaaaahhhhhhh:p

wmschultz

01-23-07, 11:43 AM

I searched the old thread and TOESIDE is who set up the link.

I'll PM.

MoInSTL

01-23-07, 11:52 AM

Hmm, with all the future new folks who are getting a new HD set for the superbowl and the recent new members there may be some confusion?

RaceTripper

01-23-07, 11:53 AM

I have to post to subscribe. The Thread Tools menu is broken, and isn't showing any items for me to select (like Subscribe to This Thread).

wmschultz

01-23-07, 11:55 AM

I have to post to subscribe. The Thread Tools menu is broken, and isn't showing any items for me to select (like Subscribe to This Thread).

Works for me, but I don't like all the emails so I don't subscribe.

tcfila

01-23-07, 11:58 AM

thats why the stlhdtv.info link is so good. It takes you the last post you saw.

MoInSTL

01-23-07, 12:07 PM

I have to post to subscribe. The Thread Tools menu is broken, and isn't showing any items for me to select (like Subscribe to This Thread).

I had the option to sub to this thread and the option to say no to email notifications. Maybe refreshing the page will help.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 12:09 PM

So what does Subscribe get you if it doesn't email you? That is why I stopped using it.

Does it do the same thing as the STLHDTV does?

RaceTripper

01-23-07, 12:16 PM

I had the option to sub to this thread and the option to say no to email notifications. Maybe refreshing the page will help.It works now. Must have been a momentary glitch.

MoInSTL

01-23-07, 12:17 PM

So what does Subscribe get you if it doesn't email you? That is why I stopped using it.

Does it do the same thing as the STLHDTV does?

No, it does not bring you to the last message like the local link did. You have to jump to the last message/page number. It just subscribes you to the thread. There is a drop down box with an option for no email notification. The default option in the drop down box is for email notification.

GlendaleHDTV

01-23-07, 12:21 PM

So what does Subscribe get you if it doesn't email you? That is why I stopped using it.

Does it do the same thing as the STLHDTV does?

It puts it in your "subscribed threads" list in the User Control Panel. I have a shortcut to the User CP, and the subscribed threads list in the User CP shows me which threads that I subscribe to have had postings since I last visited AVS. At least that's how I use it.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 12:23 PM

Ah, I see. I guess I never used it that way, it sounds like a good way to use it cuz I tend to lose threads I'd been watching.

Scott Tucker

01-23-07, 01:33 PM

Role Call...

Everyone make it over?

What happened? Was it all a dream? Did the Chargers really win? KMOV in HD via Charter?

Scott

deuces

01-23-07, 01:44 PM

black_macleod

01-23-07, 01:44 PM

Go Blues!

wmschultz

01-23-07, 01:50 PM

deuces

01-23-07, 01:56 PM

I have been talking with Ken (kdg454) about this a lot. My head is about to explode, as he knows lol. I tried a splitter with a built in amp, made things worse. I am currently using just a regular 3 way splitter. With only a 2 way splitter I barely lost any signal quality and had 95-100 on CBS, NBC, and Fox, and 87 on ABC. I had 80 on KETC. Now CBS has dropped to 65 on closest receiver and will not lock on farthest receiver. I think it would be easier to just throw another antenna in the attic and use it just on the farthest receiver.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 02:02 PM

Splitters vary in the db they lose, that is why I asked.

bailorg

01-23-07, 02:18 PM

I'm just replying because I find this thread using that little black dot that shows up after you've replied in the thread.

Hope everyone finds this thread.

aspec2

01-23-07, 03:11 PM

Hummmm......28 posts....maybe I can be the first on a new page.

Walt

aspec2

01-23-07, 03:11 PM

Nope

Walt

wmschultz

01-23-07, 03:14 PM

You can be the first on the page walt, just change the number of posts that are on a page for you. Mine is set to 50.

Mr_Bester

01-23-07, 03:30 PM

Mine is set to 30....

Are all of these posts off topic? Are we gonna be moderated?

wmschultz, were you the one that replaced the internal RG59 cables in your HDTivo?

If either of the above are true, was it very difficult? I plan on trying it before "upgrading" to the HR20. The last time around, my compression connections sucked and my crimp connections sucked just a little less.

Dug

Edit, Sorry, it was WinstonSmith

wmschultz

01-23-07, 03:32 PM

Wasn't me.

ferl

01-23-07, 04:12 PM

Quote:
Originally Posted by kilaen
Any other Dish customers having trouble tuning into KMOV-HD and KDNL-HD? SD is fine for those two channels. I haven't been able to get either of those channels for the past couple days on my ViP622.

Maybe the recent weather screwed something up? I can the switch test a few times because I kept getting an error. It finally completed successfully but I still can't tune to those 2 stations. I'm about to call Dish technical support but I'd thought I'd check here first for suggestions, etc.

Quote:
Originally posted by kdg454
We watch them both, on both 622's, everyday...no new issues.

I did see an old stutter/jump-on-pause today, while watching a playback. Just once, but it was weird....a flashback to the early days.

KPLR still bites here too, on both the 622's and 211's. Something Dish needs to get fixed.

???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????? ?

Is this for sure Dish's problem or is it KPLR?

frydiggity

01-23-07, 04:58 PM

Anyone in Ofallon IL. I currently have an OTA antenna in the attic that I did not set up. I had it split to two receivers and everything was fine. I got another 622 and when I split it 3 ways I have lost too much to carry the signal. I have messed very little with amps and I am already frustrated enough I am probably just going to buy a 2nd antenna (a little more money, a lot less work, headaches, worries, and signal drops). I was just curious if anyone in Ofallon was having luck with the DB2 or DB4?

I'm in O'Fallon, IL. I just got a new LG 30" Slim tube HDTV for XMas for our main floor, and rather than try to monkey with jumping off the line run from the external antenna down to the HD Dish receiver in our basement, I just went to Best Buy and bought an indoor antenna from RCA ($50, I think) and plugged that into the new TV's OTA tuner ( I don't have a second Dish HD tuner for the new TV) .

I figured it was worth $50 to not have to worry about the kinds of problems it sounds like you're having. The indoor antenna isn't the prettiest thing, but I've gotten no guff from the wife thus far.

kdg454

01-23-07, 05:12 PM

wulaw

01-23-07, 06:50 PM

davesalaman

01-23-07, 06:57 PM

KPLR PSIP is at 26-1 tonight.

BudShark

01-23-07, 06:58 PM

OK. I'm brand new to this, and I'm trying to figure something out. I expect to have a HD plasma delivered tomorrow and the new Charter HD DVR on Friday.

So here's the situation: the new TV has a QAM tuner and when I was on the phone with Charter, the lady went through all of the HD channels I was entitled to (since I already subscribed to almost all of the premium channels) and "enabled" them so I would be ready to go when I get the box. So does this mean that I can run the HD DVR in through HDMI and also run a coax (split before running into DVR) into the TV and use the QAM tuner and get all of the digital (premium and non) channels that are part of my package, therefore enabling PIP for ALL channels? Or stated differently, are the digital channels filtered by Charter at the pole, or in the cable box itself? Does anyone know?

Whooo... I'm out of breath just reading that. Well the answer is....

Yes, and No, and Yes, and well No.

Charter does NOT do clear QAM, so you won't get all the premium and all digital channels - however, your mileage will vary because when they enable a premium its for a segment of their network, so you will randomly receive some premium QAM channels. The old thread contains a list of all the free QAM (unencrypted) and a list of some of the "premiums" that have popped up at times. I'm sure someone will post a better/clearer response than me.

However - you might want to invest in an antenna before you worry about QAM because Charter doesn't have CBS or ABC HD channels - something I'm sure you'll want Feb. 4th around 5PM.

Chris

wmschultz

01-23-07, 07:04 PM

But free porn via QAM. :D

wulaw

01-23-07, 07:06 PM

Thanks. I already have the antenna, I've planned this out and was not intending to get a new box from Charter. I only found out today that the HD DVR was available, which got me all excited about the possibilities. I'll be experimenting like crazy anyway, I just wanted to know it wouldn't be a fool's errand. I appreciate the help.

Sean

wulaw

01-23-07, 07:18 PM

that you're joking about the porn. I'll never be able to get rid of my classmates.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 07:25 PM

KPLR PSIP is at 26-1 tonight.

Thanks for the info. I just tested the HR20 using this as a known problem and it did not take kindly to this at all....

Good info!

wmschultz

01-23-07, 07:25 PM

that you're joking about the porn. I'll never be able to get rid of my classmates.

No joke at all!! ENJOY!

kdg454

01-23-07, 07:30 PM

OK, a bit OT, sorry

wulaw

01-23-07, 07:32 PM

Are you talking about PPV porn or the softcore stuff on Cinemax and such? I live with a chick who loves porn, go figure. She'll flip if it's the good stuff. I'll act like I worked some sort of magic in order to have "le grande" favor to call in at some point.

DLSDO

01-23-07, 07:34 PM

OK. I'm brand new to this, and I'm trying to figure something out. I expect to have a HD plasma delivered tomorrow and the new Charter HD DVR on Friday.

So here's the situation: the new TV has a QAM tuner

The question is "Does your TV have a built in ATSC tuner?". Your set-up should allow you to receive all the encrypted stuff through your HD-DVR. That is if you subscribed. Unfortunately charter no longer carries channel 4 in HD so the ATSC tuner will allow you to receive all the local unencrypted HD channels OTA.

and when I was on the phone with Charter, the lady went through all of the HD channels I was entitled to (since I already subscribed to almost all of the premium channels) and "enabled" them so I would be ready to go when I get the box. So does this mean that I can run the HD DVR in through HDMI and also run a coax (split before running into DVR) into the TV and use the QAM tuner and get all of the digital (premium and non) channels that are part of my package, therefore enabling PIP for ALL channels? Or stated differently, are the digital channels filtered by Charter at the pole, or in the cable box itself? Does anyone know?

When you split the signal before the HD-DVR you will only be able to view unencrypted digital channels in the clear with the QAM tuner.

Do you know which HD-DVR your getting? Please post specifics. My guess is the Moto 3416.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 07:36 PM

See this for QAM Channels (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9431820&highlight=qam++porn#post9431820)

Other peoples VOD could be porn.

wulaw

01-23-07, 07:41 PM

Charter has promised me the latest and greatest brand spanking new box. So I assume that's the 3416. And yes, the TV has a QAM/ASTC tuner. What I was hoping to achieve was basically 2 complete and seperate digital tuners so that I could really use PIP (instead of only partial when you use a box and run a seperate cable into a TV WITHOUT a QAM tuner.)

I'm getting all kinds of interesting replies here. I'll post on Friday after I've experimented.

wulaw

01-23-07, 07:51 PM

First, thanks for the channel listing. What I'm still struggling with is how I can watch other people's VOD. I live in a condo - does that mean I can watch VOD from other people in my BUILDING? Or my NEIGHBORHOOD? I believe you, I just can't quite grasp how that's possible. Do I have to watch it at the same time as whomever ordered VOD, or do I have access for the same 24 period?

I'm sure this has all been addressed, but I've already spent 3 hours on the old thread and I didn't see any of this.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 07:55 PM

I don't have Charter. I love my DirecTV too much.

So someone with Charter will have to explain. But.......

Have you ever been to a hotel and disconnected the little "pay box" from the back of the TV and then connected the COAX straight to the TV?

The guy in the room next door orders pay per view, and you get to see it...pretty nice. I bet you will try it now, won't you?

Anyway, same basic concept.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 07:56 PM

BTW, don't apologize, and welcome to our little world.

matth1138

01-23-07, 08:35 PM

First, thanks for the channel listing. What I'm still struggling with is how I can watch other people's VOD. I live in a condo - does that mean I can watch VOD from other people in my BUILDING? Or my NEIGHBORHOOD? I believe you, I just can't quite grasp how that's possible. Do I have to watch it at the same time as whomever ordered VOD, or do I have access for the same 24 period?
.

Yeah, you're watching as they fast forward and rewind to the "good parts."

And it's more of a neighborhood thing. Made me wonder about my neighbors. Not being a big p0rn fan, this is one of the reasons I'm switching from Charter to Dish on thursday.

-Matt

Mr_Bester

01-23-07, 08:46 PM

KPLR PSIP is at 26-1 tonight.
Damn, I wish I'd have seen this earlier. My wife is pissed her Gilmore Girls ep showed up with a partial 0min recording. Luckily, we back up some shows on the sd tivo, and she is watching now....

Dan in St. Louis

01-23-07, 09:03 PM

You can get your "last read message" feature back.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=793006&goto=newpost

black_macleod

01-23-07, 09:35 PM

Speaking of porn, there are 4 new (as yet untitled) channels appeared in my Charter guide tonight in the 800 range -- that's the porn range, yea?

And on another note -- especially with the whole internet / porn rage, do cable / sat companies still make a lot of money on porn? I mean are ppl still willing to pay ~$10 to watch a few hours of PPV stuff? Seems silly to me.

Then again, alcohol can make ppl buy a lot of infomercial crap too.

MizzouTiger

01-23-07, 09:59 PM

DLSDO

01-23-07, 10:05 PM

MizzouTiger

01-23-07, 10:09 PM

I just checked the signal strength on my HR20 and it is showing 85%+ signal strenght for 11-1 and 11-2 but nothing is coming in when I try to tune to those channels. Haven't tried connecting directly to TV's antenna input yet.

kdg454

01-23-07, 10:19 PM

Same as usual on OTA/Dish receiver. Breaking up, but they're both there.

I also see Dish has added guide data for 6.1, 8.1, and 9.3.
I don't recall these being populated in the past.

wmschultz

01-23-07, 10:30 PM

I just checked the signal strength on my HR20 and it is showing 85%+ signal strength for 11-1 and 11-2 but nothing is coming in when I try to tune to those channels. Haven't tried connecting directly to TV's antenna input yet.

I just had to redo the antenna setup for the HR20 to get 11-1 and 11-2 back.

I had the same signal strength.

bhornberger

01-23-07, 10:40 PM

From the PD.

By Jerri Stroud
ST. LOUIS POST-DISPATCH
01/24/2007

AT&T Inc.'s new television franchise agreements with several local communities have raised some residents' hopes that another alternative to cable and satellite TV service is on the horizon.

But the telephone giant is making no promises for when or where its television service will be available. And its performance in other markets suggests that St. Louisans could have a long wait.

AT&T has franchises with four communities here and is seeking them in more than 100 other Missouri cities and towns. In addition, it is backing a bill in the Missouri Legislature that would allow it to get a statewide franchise covering all communities.

AT&T plans to make its U-Verse television service available to half of its 19 million customers nationwide by 2008. In Missouri, the company expects to reach 25 percent of its customers by 2009 or 2010, and half of its customers within six years, said John Sondag, vice president of external affairs.

Remaining of the story here...

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/business/stories.nsf/story/6E1275A23152034B8625726D000DF172?OpenDocument

MoInSTL

01-23-07, 10:41 PM

Gentlemen, the old timers here know I take things in stride and have a good sense of humor, but let's cut all the talk about porn please. Too much information in one post.

Thanks.

Scott Tucker

01-23-07, 10:42 PM

Anyone else still having a problem getting 11-1 and 11-2 via OTA on DirecTv still? I'm using HR20 receiver. Just tried tuning to 11-1 and just got a black screen. Have to go to guide and select a different channel to get off of it - using channel up and down won't change channel. I notice 1 person posted at dbstalk that they were getting 11-1 and 11-2 just after 8:00 tonight.

Just checked and I get a black screen too. Weird, I've never not been able to get 11-1 or 11-2 before even when others couldn't. Congrats on all the networks except Fox for showing the State of the Union in HD tonight. Fox looked like puke and CBS looked the best to me.

Scott

kdg454

01-23-07, 10:42 PM

I just had to redo the antenna setup for the HR20 to get 11-1 and 11-2 back.

I had the same signal strength.
What did you "redo," Bill?
I'm guessing you're referring to OTA through the OTA tuner in the HR20, or are 11-1 and 11-2 on the DTV Sats?
Maybe that has something to do with the Dish issues.
Please elaborate :)

kdg454

01-23-07, 10:46 PM

Just checked and I get a black screen too. Weird, I've never not been able to get 11-1 or 11-2 before even when others couldn't. Congrats on all the networks except Fox for showing the State of the Union in HD tonight. Fox looked like puke and CBS looked the best to me.

Scott
figures...I didn't watch it. I was thinking (I should learn), if they were in HD, I'd watch them...but, they never are :o

Scott Tucker

01-23-07, 10:50 PM

Ken,

At first I thougt Bill meant to rescan the channels, but he has the HR20 so that means he's getting 11-1 via sat?
Anyway, I am rescanning now to see if it helps...

Scott

Scott Tucker

01-23-07, 10:53 PM

Just rescanned my HR10-250 and to no avail. I still get no channel 11-1
FWIW. I really don't care as I don't watch that channel, but thought I'd experiment for ya'll.

Scott

MoInSTL

01-23-07, 10:57 PM

Just rescanned my HR10-250 and to no avail. I still get no channel 11-1
FWIW. I really don't care as I don't watch that channel, but thought I'd experiment for ya'll.

Scott

Same here. I don't care about 11 and have the HR 250 w/OTA and I'm getting a black screen as well. Didn't try a rescan.

repair4man

01-23-07, 11:08 PM

Anyone else still having a problem getting 11-1 and 11-2 via OTA on DirecTv still? I'm using HR20 receiver. Just tried tuning to 11-1 and just got a black screen. Have to go to guide and select a different channel to get off of it - using channel up and down won't change channel. I notice 1 person posted at dbstalk that they were getting 11-1 and 11-2 just after 8:00 tonight.
It's 11:05 pm and KPLR is dead as a door nail OTA (0% signal) in St. Charles on Fusion HDTV tuner. Oops, 11:06 and they're up to the mid 40% range, occasionally bouncing up to where I get something. They are by far the worst at producing a signal. Never know if I'll pick them up or not.

Mr_Bester

01-23-07, 11:38 PM

A couple of posts ago DaveSalaman(sp?) noted that 11's psip was funky. did you guys try 26.1 manually. 11.1 is gone on my HDTivo too. It could be that the D* units are less forgiving with psip...

Joseph Clark

01-24-07, 01:34 AM

11.1 has been pretty much the same for me tonight as always. It doesn't come on the Dish 622 without serious breakup several times a minute - unwatchable. On the MyHD card, the image breaks up once every few minutes (sometimes more), but the audio continues pretty much intact. I think it's a ch. 11 issue, because it used to be very solid (signal strength still registers very high on the 622, and 100% on the MyHD), but it breaks up on both now. KPLR has changed something.

skippy_rq

01-24-07, 08:10 AM

I am the one responsible for stlhdtv.info and just got back after moving. The link should be fixed today. Sorry for the delay!

Rich

Left Jeff

01-24-07, 08:31 AM

MizzouTiger

01-24-07, 08:44 AM

alright! D* wa successfully installed last night! No more Charter! :D

I haven't gotten to mess around too much, but two quick observations (this is my first dish ever)...the SD channels looks MUCH better than Charter. And two, the HD channels seem to have a little more pop or something, they just seem more bright than charter's. Not a huge difference, but I swear I see it!

Another quick question: installer told me that ota-hd was activated yet on the hr20-700s? Is that right? I swear I've read here with people watching ota with D*, I'm going to check up and read some of the hr20 threads to familar with it and its foibles, but if you guys know, that'd be great!

Yes, the OTA function is now enabled on the HR20 unit, so you can pick up 5-2, 9-1, 9-2, 9-3, 9-4, 11-1, 11-2, 24-1 and 46-1 through it. My antenna is a directional one, so I'm not getting 24-1 or 46-1. The other ones I am getting. I do have some problems with the Channel 9 stations on the HR20 - sometimes it tells me it can't acquire the signal, but I get it fine with my televisions tuner. What I have seen posted on dbstalk is that the ATSC tuner in the HR20 is not as good as what you probably have in your tv, so it may register a lower signal. I was having problems with the channel 11 stations last night (see earlier post) - wife wanted to watch Gilmore Girls in HD. I understand it was a Channel 11 issue. Didn't get a chance to check this morning before I left the house to see if it was back or not. May have to reset up the OTA on the HR20 tonight.

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 08:46 AM

Mr_Bester

01-24-07, 08:52 AM

I am the one responsible for stlhdtv.info and just got back after moving. The link should be fixed today. Sorry for the delay!

Rich
Delay? This all just popped up yesterday. I think some of us(read me) were just going through withdrawl....Hope you enjoy the new home....

Left Jeff

01-24-07, 08:53 AM

What I have seen posted on dbstalk is that the ATSC tuner in the HR20 is not as good as what you probably have in your tv

well, considering my tv doesn't have a built in atsc tuner, i'll assume the one on the hr20 is better! :eek: :D

thanks for the info...i guess I need to start reading and posting on dbstalk as well...

I had no idea I was going to get the HR20 so fast. I'm friends with the installer, I knew they were back-ordered a bit. He said he could get me one, but I still thought I'd have more time to learn about it!

Left Jeff

01-24-07, 08:57 AM

I"m not familiar with the new mpeg4 stuff so I can't say, but welcome to the wonderful world of satellite. BTW, enjoy the Superbowl in HD! :D

Scott

Dude, you have no idea! My dad is a frustrated Charter HD cusomter as well, but my mom won' "let him" put a dish on the house. About a year ago they finished remodeling the basement, he had the speaker wires ran throught the walls and ceilngs for his new speakers, new audio receiver, new HDtv, new furniture...the works...and TWO YEARS IN A ROW, my dad, the avid football fan, can't watch the Superbowl in HD. He is p!ssed!

Since I've been talking about getting a dish, he's been calling every other day..."Did you get it yet? Is it going to be there in time for the superbowl?" :D

wmschultz

01-24-07, 09:08 AM

What did you "redo," Bill?
I'm guessing you're referring to OTA through the OTA tuner in the HR20, or are 11-1 and 11-2 on the DTV Sats?
Maybe that has something to do with the Dish issues.
Please elaborate :)

On the HR20 I had to go into the menu and select ANT Setup and set up my primary area code. It then just downloads that data again.

Once I did that I got it working.

This is OTA as KPLR-HD is not available as a MPEG4 Local via DirecTV.

My HR10-250 suffered from the same problems everyone else is having. I tried a rescan on that
and it didn't work, so I just went to bed.

tenholde

01-24-07, 09:19 AM

thats why the stlhdtv.info link is so good. It takes you the last post you saw.

Can't you just use:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=793006

Ed

MizzouTiger

01-24-07, 09:25 AM

well, considering my tv doesn't have a built in atsc tuner, i'll assume the one on the hr20 is better! :eek: :D

thanks for the info...i guess I need to start reading and posting on dbstalk as well...

I had no idea I was going to get the HR20 so fast. I'm friends with the installer, I knew they were back-ordered a bit. He said he could get me one, but I still thought I'd have more time to learn about it!

If you haven't already been there, there is a ton of information on dbstalk. You won't find too many posts that say the unit is great, and a lot of posts of people having all sorts of troubles with it. I just got mine installed on Jan 11th. I have to admit, if I had found dbstalk before I upgraded to the HR20, I probably would have waited about 6 months and just kept monitoring dbstalk waiting for the problems to lessen dramatically. That being said, I haven't had any real issues with my HR20 to date (knock on wood). The very first night we had some loud popping noises and some audio dropout on DirecTv's Channel 30 broadcast, but it didn't last more than a couple of minutes. Also, after I set up my OTA on the HR20, I had a bunch of my Series Links/Season Passes spontaneously cancel themselves only to spontaneously reappear the next morning. But, so far it hasn't missed a recording, frozen up, messed up a recording, or any of the other major problems other people have been reporting. DirecTv just updated the software for the unit yesterday, so we'll see how the unit reacts with it over the next few days. Hopefully, you won't have any issue either. Good Luck!!

Dan in St. Louis

01-24-07, 09:30 AM

Can't you just use:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=793006

Ed
See also Message #55.

wmschultz

01-24-07, 09:32 AM

Can't you just use:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?goto=newpost&t=793006

Ed

Yes you can, but the stlhdtv.info link was created in part due to laziness on
everyones part but mainly as a way to tell new people how to get to us.

Loserland

01-24-07, 09:47 AM

Left Jeff

01-24-07, 09:56 AM

If you haven't already been there, there is a ton of information on dbstalk. You won't find too many posts that say the unit is great, and a lot of posts of people having all sorts of troubles with it. I just got mine installed on Jan 11th. I have to admit, if I had found dbstalk before I upgraded to the HR20, I probably would have waited about 6 months and just kept monitoring dbstalk waiting for the problems to lessen dramatically. That being said, I haven't had any real issues with my HR20 to date (knock on wood). The very first night we had some loud popping noises and some audio dropout on DirecTv's Channel 30 broadcast, but it didn't last more than a couple of minutes. Also, after I set up my OTA on the HR20, I had a bunch of my Series Links/Season Passes spontaneously cancel themselves only to spontaneously reappear the next morning. But, so far it hasn't missed a recording, frozen up, messed up a recording, or any of the other major problems other people have been reporting. DirecTv just updated the software for the unit yesterday, so we'll see how the unit reacts with it over the next few days. Hopefully, you won't have any issue either. Good Luck!!

Hey, maybe you (or someone else) can answer this:

My Moxi was always "on"...it didn't have a power off, unless you unplugged it from the wall.

The HR20 powers off. If it is powerd off, will it still record scheduled shows? I know it seems like a stupid question, but I have no idea if I have to leave it on, or if it automatically turns on (like vcr's do when the timer is set) or what...

type7

01-24-07, 09:57 AM

See this for QAM Channels (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9431820&highlight=qam++porn#post9431820)

Other peoples VOD could be porn.

Heres's the list again. ESPN full court basketball and NHL center ice have vanished. They won't even tune in anymore.

Here's ... what I can pick up with a samsung set top and an olevia built in qam tuner from charter.

67-3 TNT HD *could only get with the samsung set top box
79-10 - charter's vod/ppv commercial channel
**NOT AVAILABLE**80-15 thru 80-20 NHL Center ice
**NOT AVAILABLE**81-1 thru 81-6 - ESPN Full court basketball
**NOT AVAILABLE**81-11 thru 81-14 NHL Center ice
82-3 + 82-4 - PBS and PBS kids sub channel
82-6 - CW's sub channel thetube
83-7 - infomercials
90-15 - local real estate
93-61 thru 93-72 - blank with 93-72 having charter's vod/ppv commercials running in a tiny box in the upper right corner
102-3 - ksdk's sub channel weather
105-6 - abc
105-7 my46stl
105-8 thru 106-9 - various infomercials, charter ads, cspan, religious channels, home shopping
106-10 - wgn
106-11 thru 118-30 - more religious channels and infomercials with 118-30 the tvguide channel
After 118-30 - Other people's vod

...and yes, other people's vod includes both softcore and the hardcore variety in addition to everything else.

djearl81

01-24-07, 10:07 AM

Skippy -

How are ya man? Long time no talk. How's the new job working out?

Loserland - Is your moxi configured to output 1080i over HDMI? I'm not fo farmiliar with Charter's hardware, so it might be as a default.

Drizzt_DoUrden

01-24-07, 10:24 AM

I've had my Mits 62825 for 2 years now..... Found this site researching my new Basement theatre (Sony pearl with Onkyo 804) and just wanted to say glad I found you.....

So I read here about the new Moxi with HDMI and was all excited.... Called Charter and they told me to come to the office and switch my moxi for it.... Go to the office and of coarse service guy has to come... Go back and call tell me to go to office.... finally they got it figured out....

Dropped it off yesterday and it was like Christmas.... Hook up the HDMI and the picture looked worse....

Double check and ran the Component into my Onkyo 804 and the HDMI to the TV and sure enough better picture going threw the 804.....

Does this sound right to anyone???? :eek:

Confused what you are doing here, bud.

Are you saying you are running component from the box to the receiver, and then HDMI from the receiver to the TV? Interesting. Not sure why you would be seeing a better picture because of that. I run the HDMI from the box to my own Onkyo, and an HDMI from the Onkyxo to the TV. Picture looks much better for SD then it did with the Moxi, no difference in the HD, still looks great.

MizzouTiger

01-24-07, 10:25 AM

Hey, maybe you (or someone else) can answer this:

My Moxi was always "on"...it didn't have a power off, unless you unplugged it from the wall.

The HR20 powers off. If it is powerd off, will it still record scheduled shows? I know it seems like a stupid question, but I have no idea if I have to leave it on, or if it automatically turns on (like vcr's do when the timer is set) or what...

Yes, it will still record a scheduled recording even if you have turned it off. I know the DirecTivo units, which I also have one of, stays on all of the time. But DirecTv made their units to turn off. I have noticed from some of the postings on dbstalk that some users prefer to keep their units on all of the time thinking that it will reduce the likelihood of the unit locking up on them. It's a personal preference. We turn our off whenever we turn off the tv.

_token_

01-24-07, 10:27 AM

wmschultz

01-24-07, 10:29 AM

And turn off is a not really true, cuz really, it is in standby. Supposedly it is going to buffer material when it is in standby; however, that isn't always the case.

It uses about 1watt less of energy when it is in Standby.

I just turned off the blue circle of death lights and leave it On all the time.

MizzouTiger

01-24-07, 10:30 AM

I've had my Mits 62825 for 2 years now..... Found this site researching my new Basement theatre (Sony pearl with Onkyo 804) and just wanted to say glad I found you.....

So I read here about the new Moxi with HDMI and was all excited.... Called Charter and they told me to come to the office and switch my moxi for it.... Go to the office and of coarse service guy has to come... Go back and call tell me to go to office.... finally they got it figured out....

Dropped it off yesterday and it was like Christmas.... Hook up the HDMI and the picture looked worse....

Double check and ran the Component into my Onkyo 804 and the HDMI to the TV and sure enough better picture going threw the 804.....

Does this sound right to anyone???? :eek:

It could be an HDMI compatibility issue between the Moxi and your Mitsubishi. I have read on other forum where some people are having HDMI issues between the DirecTv HR20 and Samsung televisions. I believe some have done something similar - taken the HDMI from the HR20 to their stereo receiver and then HDMI from the stereo receiver to the television and it would then work.

DLSDO

01-24-07, 10:33 AM

I've had my Mits 62825 for 2 years now..... Found this site researching my new Basement theatre (Sony pearl with Onkyo 804) and just wanted to say glad I found you.....

So I read here about the new Moxi with HDMI and was all excited.... Called Charter and they told me to come to the office and switch my moxi for it.... Go to the office and of coarse service guy has to come... Go back and call tell me to go to office.... finally they got it figured out....

Dropped it off yesterday and it was like Christmas.... Hook up the HDMI and the picture looked worse....

Double check and ran the Component into my Onkyo 804 and the HDMI to the TV and sure enough better picture going threw the 804.....

Does this sound right to anyone???? :eek:

Help has arrived. I assume the "new Moxi" is the 3416. If so....

Yes, this is a commonly reported problem. Search in Comcasts 3416 thread here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=604142.

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 12:31 PM

I also had KPLR disappear on me last night (11-1 and 11-2, Directv HR10).
Not sure if its back on yet.

I also lost my Centurytel internet this AM.
Anyone in St. Charles County having trouble with Ctel Internet?

Thanks,
Token

My Centurytel in O'fallon is fine. Although I can't ever seem to find this freakin' thread anymore without going into the master thread index, pulling up the old, and using the link to this one. :mad:

Scott

MoInSTL

01-24-07, 12:43 PM

[Free] Sound & Vision 1-Year Subscription
http://www.freebizmag.com/emailsoundvis01welcome.htm

Just make sure you choose No Thanks. There are a couple of things to fill out. I did this through them for PC Magazine and have received 3 copies already. Two arrived together yesterday.

You can also Opt Out via their Privacy link to not have them send email I have not recived any email from them but opted out anyway.

skippy_rq

01-24-07, 12:47 PM

Skippy -

How are ya man? Long time no talk. How's the new job working out?

Lots have changed since I left working in the black hole that is AT&T.

I am now Director of IT for a local company. More on that offline. Send me PM or email.

The redirect now works everyone!!! :)

-Rich

kdg454

01-24-07, 01:00 PM

My Centurytel in O'fallon is fine. Although I can't ever seem to find this freakin' thread anymore without going into the master thread index, pulling up the old, and using the link to this one. :mad:

Scott
OLD
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=454301&page=1&pp=30
NEW
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=793006
Open the NEW one, save it as a favorite, Rt click the Fav, point it to your desktop as a shortcut...clickity-click :)

Saluki

01-24-07, 01:33 PM

I decided it was time to give my retention friends at Charter a call to see if they were in an accommodating mood.

I prefaced my comments to them by saying that while I don't neccesarily disgree with Charter's stance with Belo & Sinclair, the bottom line is that I am unable to get ABC-HD & now CBS-HD (plus the NFL Network). I stated that I was strongly considering a move to D* and wanted to see what they could do for me.

I have all the HD channels (incl. HBO, Cinemax & Showtime), 1 Moxi, mid-level internet & local phone service via the "Triple Play Package". My current bill runs approx $150 including all taxes, etc. After some manuevering on her part, the retention agent was able to drop my total down to $125 total. She was very nice, gave me her name, employee number & office location (Wisconsin). HOPEFULLY, my next bill will reflect what we discussed.

D* does have some appeal, but I've got to think that Charter will work out the Belo & Sinclair issues before long. I have no problem picking up ABC & CBS with a cheapie pair of rabbit ears, though it is a slight hassle & obviously lacks DVR capabilities. Add in the issue of wiring up my house with it's drywalled basement ceiling, old plaster walls, etc. & I'm going to stick it out for a while. I may change my mind if/when D* adds HD channels & Charter fails to do so.

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 02:01 PM

OLD
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=454301&page=1&pp=30
NEW
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=793006
Open the NEW one, save it as a favorite, Rt click the Fav, point it to your desktop as a shortcut...clickity-click :)

Thank you fine Sir. I had no problem saving it to my favorites. Creating a shortcut on the desktop? Well, I'll save that for another time...

Scott

wmschultz

01-24-07, 02:26 PM

But now the stlhdtv.info link works, too. WOO HOO!!!!

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 02:28 PM

But now the stlhdtv.info link works, too. WOO HOO!!!!

:confused: :confused: :confused:

wmschultz

01-24-07, 02:38 PM

What did I do????

Mr_Bester

01-24-07, 03:12 PM

...l.

The redirect now works everyone!!! :)

-Rich

Thank you....

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 03:14 PM

What did I do????

You said the link worked now. What is the link all about?

wmschultz

01-24-07, 03:28 PM

Thank you fine Sir. I had no problem saving it to my favorites. Creating a shortcut on the desktop? Well, I'll save that for another time...

Scott

Just instead of doing this. That's all.

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 03:40 PM

Just instead of doing this. That's all.

Yeah, i get that. But, let's start over.

What is this link you are referring to. Keep in mind I am 7 years old. :)

Scott

Mr_Bester

01-24-07, 03:58 PM

Toeside

01-24-07, 03:59 PM

What's the deal with KPLR and their messed up PSIP?

I rebooted, cleared channel list, rescanned for channels and never got 11-1/11-2 to work on my HR10-250, yet my Series 3 was OK.

I didn't even realize it was a PSIP issue until this thread. Is KPLR aware of this?

thanks guys!

Toeside

01-24-07, 04:00 PM

A while ago Skippy_RQ set up a redirect address (www.stlhdtv.info) to give out to people that would take them directly to this thread. It also takes you to your last viewed post. I believe there was a stlhdtv.com, but that was given up for commercial purposes(IIRC).
Dug

That's right. I set up the original stlhdtv.com domain and sold out. :o Funny, though, the guy who bought it almost 2 years ago still hasn't done anything with it.

deuces

01-24-07, 04:10 PM

Did you hold it for a pretty ransom though? I hope so.

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 04:12 PM

mohrpj

01-24-07, 05:59 PM

Heres's the list again. ESPN full court basketball and NHL center ice have vanished. They won't even tune in anymore.

Here's ... what I can pick up with a samsung set top and an olevia built in qam tuner from charter.

67-3 TNT HD *could only get with the samsung set top box
79-10 - charter's vod/ppv commercial channel
**NOT AVAILABLE**80-15 thru 80-20 NHL Center ice
**NOT AVAILABLE**81-1 thru 81-6 - ESPN Full court basketball
**NOT AVAILABLE**81-11 thru 81-14 NHL Center ice
82-3 + 82-4 - PBS and PBS kids sub channel
82-6 - CW's sub channel thetube
83-7 - infomercials
90-15 - local real estate
93-61 thru 93-72 - blank with 93-72 having charter's vod/ppv commercials running in a tiny box in the upper right corner
102-3 - ksdk's sub channel weather
105-6 - abc
105-7 my46stl
105-8 thru 106-9 - various infomercials, charter ads, cspan, religious channels, home shopping
106-10 - wgn
106-11 thru 118-30 - more religious channels and infomercials with 118-30 the tvguide channel
After 118-30 - Other people's vod

...and yes, other people's vod includes both softcore and the hardcore variety in addition to everything else.

Interstingly, I have some differences. I live in the Brentwood area (local office is olivette).

I too have no NHL or ESPN

83-16 FSMW HD??

A bunch of blank channels too numerous to document.

Most of my VOD is in the 103-xxx range and 104-xxx range, although I have seen some channels on the 101-x and 101-xxx range.

I also do not get sound on any of the HD channels on the qam tuner. Any ideas on that one??

der_kommissar

01-24-07, 10:55 PM

So, I had an appointment scheduled for Charter to install a DVR tonight between 5 and 7 PM. I work in illinois, and I had a 4:00 pm meeting that I ended early to try to get home in time. Got home at 5:07 to see a note on my door saying that the installer was there at 5:00 exactly and had already left. I realize that I was a tad late, but when you give a customer a 2 hour time frame right after work, can't the installer wait 10 min to see if I'm coming? We can't all have significant others that stay home all day to wait for an installer! Does anyone know if he was supposed to wait just a tad? Anyway, called Charter to complain and reschedule. The operator said that she would page the installer and try to get him to come back. Of course, he did not. She also offered to reduce my bill by $20 a month for the next six months, and that saved me as a customer. Problem is they said they can't put the code in to reduce my bill until they install the DVR, and of course the next earliest date they could give me was Tuesday next week. When I called again after 7 pm to reschedule, I told them that I was going to dish if my bill was not reduced after install of the DVR. We'll see what happpens. People on the phone were nice, to their credit. Installer camping out at my house and leaving exactly at 5- not so nice.

Scott Tucker

01-24-07, 11:16 PM

rolls375

01-24-07, 11:56 PM

Warning: Thread Hijack in progress....

Sorry to jack here, but I need some help. I live in Birmingham, AL and I'm trying to make a purchase off ebay. The seller refuses to ship the item, I don't know why, but that's what is keeping the auction low. If I can get it for a good price is there anyone in St louis that would pick it up and ship it to me. It has to be picked up at a post office this Saturday morning. I could send funds via paypal, personal check, or however. I'd send enough to pay for the item, the shipping, and some extra for your time. No risk to you, I'd actually be at your mercy.

If anybody has time this Sat am and is willing to do this favor for me, please email me and I'll send you more details.

Thanks, and sorry for hijacking.
Galen

rolader (at) hotmail (dot)com (sorry, I haven't posted here 5 times yet)

hfthomp

01-25-07, 07:27 AM

_token_

01-25-07, 08:41 AM

My 11-1 came back on it's own last night.

Guess they fixed something ;)

Thanks,
Token

MSloss

01-25-07, 08:55 AM

I also lost my Centurytel internet this AM.
Anyone in St. Charles County having trouble with Ctel Internet?

Thanks,
Token

They had a fiber cut. It was out for the area until about 10:00pm last night.

Mike

Toeside

01-25-07, 09:01 AM

My 11-1 came back on it's own last night.

Guess they fixed something ;)

Thanks,
Token

Mine, too. The issue Wed night was quite frustrating. My Series 3 TiVo worked fine for 11-1/11-2 but the HR10-250 didn't. I thought it was dying.

I sent an email to KPLR's technical dept asking for an explanation. I wonder if they'll respond.

Saluki

01-25-07, 09:31 AM

Hey Saluki, quick question. Did you call the basic Charter number to talk to the retention people or is there a better number you can call?

I just called 1-888-438-2427 (888-GET-CHARTER) & pushed the # option to cancel services. It seems that the retention department is the only department that operates in a professional manner.

Scott Tucker

01-25-07, 09:45 AM

I just called 1-888-438-2427 (888-GET-CHARTER) & pushed the # option to cancel services. It seems that the retention department is the only department that operates in a professional manner.

It is a sad and all too common state of affairs when companies try very hard to sell you something, and try equally hard to stop you from leaving. However, they don't try hard enough in between to keep you from the later. Charter is just one example of this

Scott

der_kommissar

01-25-07, 10:58 AM

I guess its the unequalness of the relationship- they get a two hour window, I get 0 minute window. I agree that under the letter of the law I missed it, but it does not seem unresonable to recognize that a 5 pm timeslot is used because people are at work and are trying to get home. They actually offered the discount without without prompting. I only got a bit upset when talking to the second tech when resecheduling because he indicated that he could not do it without the DVR install, and I was worried that I was getting the run around. I'm always nice to people on the phone, since its usually not their fault. Anyway- I know I'm not completly free of fault here.

Not to offend, but the only thing wrong with that story is you were late for your own install. Why should Charter give you anything? I don't understand why you would threaten to leave them after they showed up on time, were nice on the phone, and gave you $120 free money.

Scott

deuces

01-25-07, 11:02 AM

I guess its the unequalness of the relationship- they get a two hour window, I get 0 minute window. I agree that under the letter of the law I missed it, but it does not seem unresonable to recognize that a 5 pm timeslot is used because people are at work and are trying to get home. They actually offered the discount without without prompting. I only got a bit upset when talking to the second tech when resecheduling because he indicated that he could not do it without the DVR install, and I was worried that I was getting the run around. I'm always nice to people on the phone, since its usually not their fault. Anyway- I know I'm not completly free of fault here.

I understand Scott's point that you were not without fault. But I agree with you for the most part. I had to be at my father's house to receive a furniture delivery the other day. I had to leave the office to do it and could not get left in time. My thought on my way there was "Well they gave me a 3 hour window, surely they can wait 15 minutes." Luckily I beat them, I would have been SOL if they had been early and treated me as you were treated. I would have been upset also.

black_macleod

01-25-07, 11:11 AM

wmschultz

01-25-07, 11:41 AM

There's a pretty good Seinfeld episode that deals with this exactly. Its as funny as real life ;)

They found out that I'm getting the movie channels for free and now they want to take it away

Saluki

01-25-07, 11:49 AM

black_

I can see you being surprised that they would show up at the first minute of the install window. But, the bottom line is that they held up their end of the bargain & you were not there. Additionally, they gave you a $20 per month discount.

It would seem that they should put a cell number for the customer in the work order & have the tech call in these instances. But, alot of these installers are contract guys that get paid per install & I can't really blame them for not waiting around hoping for someone to show.

Drizzt_DoUrden

01-25-07, 11:57 AM

black_macleod

01-25-07, 12:41 PM

Saluki

01-25-07, 01:12 PM

Thanks but its not me who had the problem :D

Sorry about that!

Response should have been directed to der_kommissar.

DLSDO

01-25-07, 01:28 PM

UGH! Talk about spending all my resources and banging my head against the wall. I cannot find anywhere that someone has successfully expanded their Motorola 3416 (or 3412, for that matter) storage space by hooking up an external hard drive via the USB 2.0, Firewire, or SATA ports. I really don't want to go shell out 200 bucks for a drive and then have to sit hoping that I can find drivers somewhere to make this work.

Any of you guys have any links or know any experts on these matters?

To the best of my knowledge I do not believe that the sata or USB 2 ports are activated. I base this on the officail Comcast 3416 thread here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=604142

Highlighted Comcast because the question is....Is it Comcast or the STB? Maybe Charter has enabled functionality. But I doubt it! This is why I cringed when I heard reports of Charters release of the 3416 on the verge of the 4.1 update Moxi release that will in fact enable external HDD storage. That is if Charter ever releases it!!!!!!!

BTW....The firewire should be activated. IMHO, archiving this route is a pain and ONLY allows for nonencrypted programs.

bhornberger

01-25-07, 01:51 PM

The question I have is did they call prior to showing up at the house? In the last few weeks I had scheduled Charter to come out. I was told on the phone that the tech will call whatever number you gave them when they were close to your house. I had a 7 hour window though.....

So, I had an appointment scheduled for Charter to install a DVR tonight between 5 and 7 PM. I work in illinois, and I had a 4:00 pm meeting that I ended early to try to get home in time. Got home at 5:07 to see a note on my door saying that the installer was there at 5:00 exactly and had already left. I realize that I was a tad late, but when you give a customer a 2 hour time frame right after work, can't the installer wait 10 min to see if I'm coming? We can't all have significant others that stay home all day to wait for an installer! Does anyone know if he was supposed to wait just a tad? Anyway, called Charter to complain and reschedule. The operator said that she would page the installer and try to get him to come back. Of course, he did not. She also offered to reduce my bill by $20 a month for the next six months, and that saved me as a customer. Problem is they said they can't put the code in to reduce my bill until they install the DVR, and of course the next earliest date they could give me was Tuesday next week. When I called again after 7 pm to reschedule, I told them that I was going to dish if my bill was not reduced after install of the DVR. We'll see what happpens. People on the phone were nice, to their credit. Installer camping out at my house and leaving exactly at 5- not so nice.

Scott Tucker

01-25-07, 02:08 PM

I guess its the unequalness of the relationship- they get a two hour window, I get 0 minute window. I agree that under the letter of the law I missed it, but it does not seem unresonable to recognize that a 5 pm timeslot is used because people are at work and are trying to get home. They actually offered the discount without without prompting. I only got a bit upset when talking to the second tech when resecheduling because he indicated that he could not do it without the DVR install, and I was worried that I was getting the run around. I'm always nice to people on the phone, since its usually not their fault. Anyway- I know I'm not completly free of fault here.

Wow, my hats off to you. I was pretty hard on you last night, and you aren't even flaming me. ;) Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for not taking my post the wrong way. I too would have been pissed if I didn't make it home in time only to find out i missed them. What usually happens is you are early and they are 3 hours later than the last time quoted.

Scott

DLSDO

01-25-07, 02:27 PM

Wow, my hats off to you. I was pretty hard on you last night, and you aren't even flaming me. ;) Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for not taking my post the wrong way. I too would have been pissed if I didn't make it home in time only to find out i missed them. What usually happens is you are early and they are 3 hours later than the last time quoted.

Scott

Watching the posts unfold. Well handled. It could have gotten ugly. ;)

der_kommissar

01-25-07, 03:18 PM

I'm not much of a flamer. :) Besides, I totally know that I really needed to be there before 5 just in case, and was trying hard to do so. I was really suprised and happy about being offered the discount. I'm really not one to demand anything from others, so I never would have asked for it. There was no call in advance from them other than the automated call the night before. They had both my cell phone and home phone. The operator I talked to also said she would have the installer call be back, which he never did. The funny thing was even though the appointment was missed, I still got the automated call from Charter asking about the quality of the service around 6:30- half an hour before the end of the service period.

I just hope they don't give the box to someone else and that I can still get the discount next week.

MoInSTL

01-25-07, 03:21 PM

Watching the posts unfold. Well handled. It could have gotten ugly. ;)

Well we all know what a curmudgeon Scott is. :P

kdg454

01-25-07, 03:31 PM

Wow, my hats off to you. I was pretty hard on you last night, and you aren't even flaming me. ;) Anyway, just wanted to say thanks for not taking my post the wrong way. I too would have been pissed if I didn't make it home in time only to find out i missed them. What usually happens is you are early and they are 3 hours later than the last time quoted.

Scott
Like anyone here is going to pick on a 7 year old :D

kdg454

01-25-07, 03:46 PM

The service appointments/installations I've had with Dish, and the few repair appointments I've had with Charter (pipeline), the tech has always called from his/her own cell a few hours before arriving, to verify the time. Some have called in the morning, and others, an hour-or-so before completing the prior service call.

I guess it's up to the individual installer, though, it would seem to me, it is in the best interest of the tech, as far as, keeping his/her day scheduled and organized.

deuces

01-25-07, 03:59 PM

My last two Dish appointments they called the evening before and asked if I wanted to be their first appt at 7 AM. I said sure and that is when they arrived. The furniture, as I said earlier was the typical 3 hour window. I think I am gonna start a pizza place and guarantee delivery within a 3 hour window or it's free. ;)

Toeside

01-25-07, 04:01 PM

I haven't been active in the STL thread for quite a while. It's nice to see some of the same people are still active after 3 years.

I know I should go back and read this thread, and the last, but hopefully you guys won't mind my questions...

How is Charter these days? We just bought a Series 3 TiVo, which I set up on Wednesday, with the expectation that we'd go OTA only and cancel DirecTV. I haven't cancelled DirecTV yet, and now my wife is second guessing that decision. I need to decide if it's worth cancelling DirecTV and going with Charter (and getting cable cards for the S3), or if we should just stick with DirecTV and use the S3 for OTA only.

I'm frustrated with Charter's website with regard to pricing. They offer 3 month deals, but the price after that isn't very good. There's a 12 month winter deal going on for TV + Internet service, but as a current Charter Pipeline user, I'm not sure if I'd qualify.

Scott Tucker

01-25-07, 04:05 PM

Well we all know what a curmudgeon Scott is. :P

Finally, I have a reputation. :cool:

Scott

Toeside

01-25-07, 04:06 PM

Scott Tucker

01-25-07, 04:16 PM

Toeside,

I always wondered how your room ended up. Do you have any pics on the finished room?

Scott

mmiikkee

01-25-07, 04:23 PM

i am new to the forum dont know if this is right spot for question or not i live 70 miles east of st. louis tv towers mostly flat ground between me and them i have a 35 foot tower to put antenna on i have been looking at antennas for hd tv stations wondering what every one else thought would be best antenna for me or if i am just to far away to mess with them any thoughts would be appreciated

Toeside

01-25-07, 04:39 PM

Toeside,

I always wondered how your room ended up. Do you have any pics on the finished room?

Scott

I do somewhere.... We have a new camera now, with a wide angle lens. I'm going to take some new pictures this weekend. Funny you mentioned the room, I just saw my amazingly outdated signature. Those dates are 2005!

afiggatt

01-25-07, 04:45 PM

Post this question in the HDTV hardware reception forum with a better title such as "long range antenna for St. Louis recommendations?" along with your zip code. Then we may be able to provide some useful recommendations.

football751

01-25-07, 04:47 PM

I just double checked, and the Big+5Mbps plan is $79.98/month ($30 more than I pay for just 5Mbps), but it's only good for 6 months. After that, the plan is $30 more. Yikes!

Do people really pay this much for combined services ($110/month), with Charter, or are there ways to keep the lower price for longer?
I would say your best bet is to call and talk to them, rather tha just look online. If you call they seem to have a lot more options and can do more for you. Plus if yoy say "I'll switch Dish if I get the low price for 12 months" they may be more likely to give you that price for longer, as I have heard reports of people threatening to cancel and them getting reduced rates. Can't hurt to call.

Drizzt_DoUrden

01-25-07, 05:02 PM

To the best of my knowledge I do not believe that the sata or USB 2 ports are activated. I base this on the officail Comcast 3416 thread here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=604142

Highlighted Comcast because the question is....Is it Comcast or the STB? Maybe Charter has enabled functionality. But I doubt it! This is why I cringed when I heard reports of Charters release of the 3416 on the verge of the 4.1 update Moxi release that will in fact enable external HDD storage. That is if Charter ever releases it!!!!!!!

BTW....The firewire should be activated. IMHO, archiving this route is a pain and ONLY allows for nonencrypted programs.

Thanks for the response, DLSDO.

Believe me, I have read through that forum from front to back, and back to the front again. Unfortunately the Comcast people are not much help. To begin with, they are all on different software and firmware releases. Charter (surprisingly) has held off pushing the most recent firmware, which has bugs that kills the HDMI connection and screws with some of the functionality. The software bug has had a habit of reporting a 100% full drive when there is only 15% or less on there. So that already puts us on different pages. It's also known that Comcast released all of their boxes with the USB and SATA locked down. That (supposedly) is not the case with Charter. The tech specifically told me that the Firewire AND USB 2.0 ports were active, and said that you could hook up a personal external hard drive to expand your capacity. That of course does not make it so, but until I can prove him wrong I'm giving him the benefit of the doubt. :-P

Also, I agree with you that this is a poor choice for archiving shows. However, I'm not looking to archive shows, I could do that with the firewire and my laptop. I'm looking to expand the storage capacity. ;-)

jcorbin121

01-25-07, 07:06 PM

Anyone getting a stutter on channel 30 tonite via OTA (or otherwise), all my other OTA channels are perfect, seems like I remember this last Thursday night also........

john

mmiikkee

01-25-07, 07:12 PM

kdg454

01-25-07, 07:33 PM

i am not sure if this the right place for this or not. i live 70 miles east of st. louis broadcast towers and was wondering what the best antenna might be for my location to pick up hd signals. i have a thirtyfive feet tall tower to put it on with about a 80 feet run to my tv any suggestions or informatioon would be appreciated
This works for me @ 58 miles w/pre-amp; rooftop mount-25' above ground.
http://www.winegard.com/offair/pdf/HD9095P.pdf
You're going to need a large directional UHF, probably with a pre-amp.

Jhamps10

01-25-07, 08:43 PM

mmiikkee,

I would check here, they are located in mt. vernon

Laco Electronic Inc
751 Fairfield Rd
Mount Vernon, IL 62864
Phone: 800-642-4960

They should know a good antenna to pick up st. louis, plus with you 70 miles east, I imagine you are around a Vandalia, Salem, Mt. vernon line and my grandma can pick up most of the STL stations on antenna in Kinmundy, except Fox 2, and can even pick up WSIL out of Carbondale, if you want an ABC station that won't bombard you with crazy corporate policies.

wmschultz

01-25-07, 08:43 PM

Has anyone talked to DropTheRemote? I'm about ready to Copy And Paste his general info broadcast in here.

Earth to Doug, come in DOUG!!!!

wmschultz

01-25-07, 08:44 PM

kdg454

01-25-07, 08:44 PM

Has anyone talked to DropTheRemote? I'm about ready to Copy And Paste his general info broadcast in here.

Earth to Doug, come in DOUG!!!!
PM :)

wmschultz

01-25-07, 08:46 PM

wmschultz

01-25-07, 08:47 PM

PM :)

Some actually PM or talk to him, I just thought I could get an update.

Besides, I don't know how to PM :D

kdg454

01-25-07, 08:49 PM

Some actually PM or talk to him, I just thought I could get an update.

Besides, I don't know how to PM :D
I sent you one....Even Scott knows how to read one!

He's been busy...I'm sure he'll be along soon :)

wmschultz

01-25-07, 08:50 PM

I sent you one....Even Scott knows how to read one!

Yeah but he might yell at me if I post the wrong thing...MEAN SCOTT

kdg454

01-25-07, 08:52 PM

Yeah but he might yell at me if I post the wrong thing...MEAN SCOTT
Now that he has an identity, and all.
What was that...oh....crankified, right?

deuces

01-25-07, 08:57 PM

Has anyone talked to DropTheRemote? I'm about ready to Copy And Paste his general info broadcast in here.

Earth to Doug, come in DOUG!!!!

He calibrated my new Panny 50 inch on Wednesday evening with amazing results. He was leaving Thursday morning for Hannibal, MO then to Kansas City so he is currently out of town. Our TV looks great after his visit. I will post more about the calibration later.

wmschultz

01-25-07, 09:32 PM

Well this is going to have to do until DTR comes back.

Click Here to see FAQ's and General Information (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9546002&&#post9546002)

Scott Tucker

01-25-07, 10:02 PM

Ken and Bill,

You guys are crackin' me up. Crankified! Now that's a good one. All real credit to Mo however.

I lost power tonight for about 5 seconds. When my HR10-250 turned back on it rebooted and now I have the 6.3b update. We'll see if that cures my audio dropouts.

Scott

der_kommissar

01-25-07, 10:28 PM

That would have been very useful. I left work as early as I could, but maybe he could have known to wait 5 minutes.

My last two Dish appointments they called the evening before and asked if I wanted to be their first appt at 7 AM. I said sure and that is when they arrived. The furniture, as I said earlier was the typical 3 hour window. I think I am gonna start a pizza place and guarantee delivery within a 3 hour window or it's free. ;)

kdg454

01-25-07, 10:33 PM

Scott,
Do DTV receivers update and self reboot daily?
How/when does the EGP get updated?

kdg454

01-25-07, 10:38 PM

That would have been very useful. I left work as early as I could, but maybe he could have known to wait 5 minutes.
Personally, I think the installer is in the wrong, in this particular situation.
5 Minutes....what if you were home, and in the bathroom, or on the phone.
It's not like they're UPS drivers...one foot on the gas with one finger on the doorbell.

Scott Tucker

01-25-07, 10:46 PM

Scott,
Do DTV receivers update and self reboot daily?
How/when does the EGP get updated?

Not sure when they reboot. The EPG updates every couple weeks I think but really not sure. Mine rebooted after the power outage. Been whatching FOX for over a hour now without a audio drop out, so apparently the update has helped.

Scott

DLSDO

01-25-07, 11:09 PM

[QUOTE]Unfortunately the Comcast people are not much help

Boy, your not kidding! I posted a few questions in that thread and I could feel the heat seeping out of my keyboard :eek:

looking to expand the storage capacity.

Okay then. Your our beta tester for the Charter 3416. My questions so far..

1)What is the process to change resolution output? My understanding is that switching this box from 1080i<->720p<->480p<->480i is not an easy process. What are the steps? Can it be done from the box and remote? This is very important to me. I archive HD @ 480i and its very easy to toggle down to 480i for transfer then back up to 1080i for viewing

2)Hook up an external drive!!!!!!!!! Is it enabled?

3)I really like "music choice" on the Moxi interface menu. Anything similar on the 3416?

Drizzt_DoUrden

01-25-07, 11:59 PM

[QUOTE=Drizzt_DoUrden]

Boy, your not kidding! I posted a few questions in that thread and I could feel the heat seeping out of my keyboard :eek:

.

Okay then. Your our beta tester for the Charter 3416. My questions so far..

1)What is the process to change resolution output? My understanding is that switching this box from 1080i<->720p<->480p<->480i is not an easy process. What are the steps? Can it be done from the box and remote? This is very important to me. I archive HD @ 480i and its very easy to toggle down to 480i for transfer then back up to 1080i for viewing

2)Hook up an external drive!!!!!!!!! Is it enabled?

3)I really like "music choice" on the Moxi interface menu. Anything similar on the 3416?

Heh. Not a problem:

1) Just like with the Moxi I believe. Turn off the box, leave TV on and hit your menu button. You can drive from there.

2) Won't try it until I find out if I need drivers.

3) I'll get back to you on that.

ktviengineering

01-26-07, 01:50 AM

Joseph Clark

01-26-07, 02:43 AM

For those of you who have had issues with KTVI's HD signal (as discussed in previous threads w/ pictures), when have you seen the noise?

During Prime time?

News?

Syndicated programming? (judge judy, etc).

Also, if anyone is able to jot down exact times they see the noise, that could be very helpful.

Please send any info you can including pictures.

Thanks

I've PMed you. I have examples from MyHD computer captures of frames from Bones. The image breakup manifests slightly differently on my Dish 622, but you can see the spot where it most often happens (lower half to lower third of the frame/shot). It's quite disruptive.

If KTVI would only increase its bitrate, the blocking artifacts (a separate issue that I also have captures of) could be eliminated.

wolverine5767

01-26-07, 06:07 AM

Kurt K

01-26-07, 07:57 AM

For those of you who have had issues with KTVI's HD signal (as discussed in previous threads w/ pictures), when have you seen the noise?

During Prime time?

News?

Syndicated programming? (judge judy, etc).

Also, if anyone is able to jot down exact times they see the noise, that could be very helpful.

Please send any info you can including pictures.

Thanks
I will start keeping track of the exact times of the "blips" again. Look forward to seeing them posted sometime next week after watching Prison Break, 24, House and Bones.

I only notice the problems during prime time, but that's also the only time I have my surround receiver on. And the "blips" for me are more noticable in the sound department, than the visual department.

billsramsfan

01-26-07, 09:05 AM

Not sure when they reboot. The EPG updates every couple weeks I think but really not sure. Mine rebooted after the power outage. Been whatching FOX for over a hour now without a audio drop out, so apparently the update has helped.

I have two HR10-250's, one updated to 6.3b a few weeks ago. Since then the audio drop outs have stopped but the receiver has been locking up every few days. Has anyone else noticed lockup's since the 6.3b update?

Mr_Bester

01-26-07, 09:06 AM

I have two HR10-250's, one updated to 6.3b a few weeks ago. Since then the audio drop outs have stopped but the receiver has been locking up every few days. Has anyone else noticed lockup's since the 6.3b update?

So far, I've had no problems with 6.3b, but there are people with those problems. You can look at tivocommunity or dbstalk.

Dug

wmschultz

01-26-07, 09:30 AM

For those of you who have had issues with KTVI's HD signal (as discussed in previous threads w/ pictures), when have you seen the noise?

During Prime time?

News?

Syndicated programming? (judge judy, etc).

Also, if anyone is able to jot down exact times they see the noise, that could be very helpful.

Please send any info you can including pictures.

Thanks

It happens during Prime Time and syndicated programming. I don't typically watch the news so I can't help you there.

During Idol, yes unfortunately I watched, it was happening quite often.

I posted pictures in the old thread.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9424116&highlight=fox+house#post9424116

wmschultz

01-26-07, 09:35 AM

Scott,
Do DTV receivers update and self reboot daily?
How/when does the EGP get updated?

The guide is updated via the satellite and I believe that is daily.

The TIVO information is populated into the guide when it phones home. It used
to call home every 2 or 3 days, now the thing is set up to call every 2 weeks or
something like that.

As far as the reboot goes. They should not reboot unless they are patched.

To be patched it has to receive the patch from the Satellite and then be
authorized to install it when it phones home, that is why people yank the phone
cord, cuz they don't want it to update.

I hope this helps.

MoInSTL

01-26-07, 10:09 AM

Not sure when they reboot. The EPG updates every couple weeks I think but really not sure. Mine rebooted after the power outage. Been whatching FOX for over a hour now without a audio drop out, so apparently the update has helped.

Scott

I unplugged all of my equipment during the last storm after the power failed. (I had already flipped the switch on the surge protector). When I powered my DVR back on I had the 6.3b software as well. No audio drops for me either.

billsramsfan, as posted, check out tivocommunity forums. Try deleting some of your saved stuff as I read when the drive starts getting full it becomes more problematic. I don't keep a lot on mine and have not had a re-boot. It may be that or just the luck of the draw.

kdg454

01-26-07, 11:01 AM

For those of you who have had issues with KTVI's HD signal (as discussed in previous threads w/ pictures), when have you seen the noise?
During Prime time?
News?
Syndicated programming? (judge judy, etc).
Also, if anyone is able to jot down exact times they see the noise, that could be very helpful.
Please send any info you can including pictures.
Thanks
Frankly, all that needs to be done, is turn on a monitor at the station, tuned to 2.1, for an hour or so. It can been seen virtually any time.

In order, I find the most noise/blips/breakups occur during Network HD, followed by local KTVI productions, followed by syndicated programming.

If you were to record something, like was recommended, American Idol, and then view the playback, you would see it all.

ktviengineering

01-26-07, 11:21 AM

Frankly, all that needs to be done, is turn on a monitor at the station, tuned to 2.1, for an hour or so. It can been seen virtually any time.

Thanks for the good info folks. Keep it coming.

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 11:33 AM

OT, but does anyone know a handy person who would like to make some side money doing interior plaster work in my Boss's family room?

Scott

RaceTripper

01-26-07, 11:38 AM

I have two HR10-250's, one updated to 6.3b a few weeks ago. Since then the audio drop outs have stopped but the receiver has been locking up every few days. Has anyone else noticed lockup's since the 6.3b update?
I have two on 6.3b. The audio dropouts stopped, but I still get random reboots and freezes, and recordings with misflagged audio (have to cycle AV processor through to mono and back before audio works).

That and the fact that Season Pass rervording is all screwed up -- along with the fact that Speed and SciFi will appear in HD later this year -- prompted me to change my equipment to the (MPEG4) HR20-700 DVRs (which get installed next week).

Mr_Bester

01-26-07, 11:55 AM

I have two on 6.3b. The audio dropouts stopped, but I still get random reboots and freezes, and recordings with misflagged audio (have to cycle AV processor through to mono and back before audio works).

That and the fact that Season Pass rervording is all screwed up -- along with the fact that Speed and SciFi will appear in HD later this year -- prompted me to change my equipment to the (MPEG4) HR20-700 DVRs (which get installed next week).

Were you able to get good pricing(free+shipping) or did you get the 199 or 229 ea? I'm considering the change, but I'm also just about ready to try my hand at hacking the HR10-250.
Dug

wmschultz

01-26-07, 11:58 AM

OT, but does anyone know a handy person who would like to make some side money doing interior plaster work in my Boss's family room?

Scott

Does this mean your wife wants the family room done, or is this actually your boss from work?

RaceTripper

01-26-07, 12:15 PM

Were you able to get good pricing(free+shipping) or did you get the 199 or 229 ea? I'm considering the change, but I'm also just about ready to try my hand at hacking the HR10-250.
Dug
I paid $213.xx. Then I got a $150 instant credit, plus a $10 credit for 6 months. Net cost for 2 DVRs is $3 and change.

I got that by calling D* and speaking "Cancel Service!" into the automated system. :eek:

Mr_Bester

01-26-07, 12:38 PM

Thanks for ^

MoInSTL

01-26-07, 12:38 PM

OT. Frustrated with Ameren and after a letter sent back on 12/7 to many officials and Ameren I contacted a reporter at the Post yesterday who has been writing articles about Ameren. My neighbor called to say there was mention of this today in the Metro section on page 2 under The Savvy Consumer. It's aslo online here (http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/news/columnists.nsf/savvyconsumer/story/4E3334F67C2E30F58625726F0016D15A?OpenDocument). In the second section titled, Is this tree Ameren's problem? Btw, the supervisor just left here a half hour ago! :eek:

wmschultz

01-26-07, 12:44 PM

And, are they gonna fix it?

MoInSTL

01-26-07, 12:48 PM

And, are they gonna fix it?

You better believe it. It came from the top down and the guy who showed up to look at it is the St. Louis County wide supe. A trimming crew will be here Moday and he agreed that another section (*cough*) looked bad too. :)

Edit: Now you guys know where Mo comes from. So much for anonymity.

wmschultz

01-26-07, 12:50 PM

Power (literally) to the people!!

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 01:02 PM

Does this mean your wife wants the family room done, or is this actually your boss from work?

No, thankfully, it's actually my Boss who needs the work done.

Scott

jmeitz

01-26-07, 01:26 PM

I work for Ameren, just thought i would let you know.

RaceTripper

01-26-07, 01:38 PM

I work for Ameren, just thought i would let you know.Wow, that's like coming here and admitting you work for Charter. :D :eek: :D

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 01:46 PM

I work for Charter. :)

RaceTripper

01-26-07, 01:50 PM

Don't mind Scott. He gets confused a lot. :rolleyes:

;)

kdg454

01-26-07, 01:55 PM

That explains a lot, Scott :eek:

RaceTripper

01-26-07, 02:00 PM

That explains a lot, Scott :eek:You do realize that Scott's alter ego is the one we all have on our Block List?

Toeside

01-26-07, 02:06 PM

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 02:38 PM

Scott, we had a power outage last night also. What happened? I freaked out my kids.

We've had 6.3b on our HR10-250 since just before Christmas, I guess. It has definitely fixed our audio issues on Fox.

Not really sure what happened. I was playing Xbox in my theater when it went out for like 5 seconds. All I kept thinking was "oh Sh*t! MY projector's lamp is gonna explode since the fan wasn't running." Glad the power came back on right away because my fan immmediately turned on to cool the lamp.

Scott

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 02:41 PM

You do realize that Scott's alter ego is the one we all have on our Block List?

Are my alter ego's initials J.G.? BTW, my comments are mine, and in no way reflective of Charter and its policies. :p

Scott

RaceTripper

01-26-07, 02:57 PM

Are my alter ego's initials J.G.? ...Yeah, we know now who you really are...

Chazb

01-26-07, 03:05 PM

Well I will get hammered for this statement.With all the bad that has been said about charter I have to give them kudo's for having my internet and and cable tv working after all the power came on now this was the third time for me and as soon as I got power charter worked.I will board up my doors now and arm myself because I dont know what will happen after I wrote something nice about charter.

kdg454

01-26-07, 03:23 PM

Thanks for the good info folks. Keep it coming.
American Idol-Wednesday night. KTVI-DT via OTA. I believe others will confirm this is what they're seeing, regardless of source, be it Dish, DTV, OTA, etc.

During the 1:41 of actual programming (no issues during commercials) these breakups occur randomly...at times, minutes apart, at other times...10-15 minutes apart.

The "frames" are added-up moving forward frame-by-frame. The total time of this entire breakup was only about 1 second in live time.

Here is a sequence of one of the breakups.

Beginning screenshot when normal
http://members.aol.com/kdg454/ktvi1.jpg

Next screenshot lasted 23 frames
http://members.aol.com/kdg454/ktvi2.jpg

3 frames-appears normal
http://members.aol.com/kdg454/ktvi3.jpg

29 frames
http://members.aol.com/kdg454/ktvi4.jpg

26 frames
http://members.aol.com/kdg454/ktvi5.jpg

28 frames
http://members.aol.com/kdg454/ktvi6.jpg

Back to normal
http://members.aol.com/kdg454/ktvi7.jpg

(Scott must have walked into the room during the last shot)

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 03:35 PM

Damn, you guys are lucky I like your humor. :)

Chazb,

I'm glad all is going well for you with Charter. That is how it should be. What makes me mad about them is the company has so much unseen potential. Believe me, I would love it if C* could give me everything I get from other providers because it would likely save me $$$. Someday, hopefully soon, they will get it together, so my stock goes up. :)

Scott

wmschultz

01-26-07, 03:52 PM

American Idol-Wednesday night. KTVI-DT via OTA. I believe others will confirm this is what they're seeing, regardless of source, be it Dish, DTV, OTA, etc.

During the 1:41 of actual programming (no issues during commercials) these breakups occur randomly...at times, minutes apart, at other times...10-15 minutes apart.

You have to be kidding me. It sure seemed like a whole let LESS than 1:41 of actual programming.

FOX has really sold out on 24 & Idol. I guess these are their own real money makers. I like House but
I don't think it has as many commercials.

BTW Scott, with those looks don't you have to have a sense of humor?

kdg454

01-26-07, 04:03 PM

You have to be kidding me. It sure seemed like a whole let LESS than 1:41 of actual programming.

FOX has really sold out on 24 & Idol. I guess these are their own real money makers. I like House but
I don't think it has as many commercials.

BTW Scott, with those looks don't you have to have a sense of humor?
Right now, it's not Too bad. Last season, during the 1 hr competition episodes, we once counted the 30 second skips for commercials. 34 minutes of programing and 26 minutes of commercials. It was the 3rd or 4th show, from the end.

Bless the DVR!!

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 04:37 PM

BTW Scott, with those looks don't you have to have a sense of humor?

Hey, I'm not the one recording Idol! :eek:

Scott

wmschultz

01-26-07, 04:38 PM

I didn't record it, it was just on........I don't let that stuff get recorded on my DVR.

kdg454

01-26-07, 05:20 PM

davesalaman

01-26-07, 05:36 PM

You better believe it. It came from the top down and the guy who showed up to look at it is the St. Louis County wide supe. A trimming crew will be here Moday and he agreed that another section (*cough*) looked bad too. :)

Edit: Now you guys know where Mo comes from. So much for anonymity.

And you are such a geek too :)

SHADO 1

01-26-07, 06:23 PM

I just heard a promo on KHTS 96 radio that the Sound Room will be giving away free HD antennas for people that have HD through Charter on Sat (1-27) after 1:00 pm. You must bring in a charter bill that shows you have the HD pack.

Andrew Sabin

01-26-07, 06:39 PM

I've read several posts in this thread and avsforum in general about OTA HD quality vs. DIRECTV/DISH HD Locals quality. It seems the opinion is split in terms of PQ with some saying OTA HD is clearly better and others saying they can't see any difference. After having Dish for a week and numerous A/B comparisions, I can say I don't notice any difference in picture quality on a 42" 1080p LCD. I'm curious what the latest opinion is regarding OTA HD vs. Dish HD Locals in St. Louis? I have observed rare artifacts that seem to be a growing pain issue with the MPEG4 encoders. Do other Dish viewers see these infrequent artifacts?

Thanks,
Andrew

Chazb

01-26-07, 06:48 PM

Well IMO Andrew anytime a signal whether it be charter, dish or direct has to change paths to reach you it wont be as good as a direct line.I know my ota looks better than coming thru charter atleast on the local channels.I think the difference is small though but does seem more crisp with the ota but this is my opinion.

black_macleod

01-26-07, 07:11 PM

MoInSTL

01-26-07, 07:34 PM

I work for Ameren, just thought i would let you know.

Are you a lineman or management?

MoInSTL

01-26-07, 07:37 PM

Are my alter ego's initials J.G.? BTW, my comments are mine, and in no way reflective of Charter and its policies. :p

Scott

LOL!!!!!

John Kotches

01-26-07, 07:54 PM

kdg:

I get dropouts; but it is not as severe as what you are showing. Mine tends to be a much smaller band near the center of the picture. That's all I get.

Cheers,

Toeside

01-26-07, 08:06 PM

kdg:

I get dropouts; but it is not as severe as what you are showing. Mine tends to be a much smaller band near the center of the picture. That's all I get.

Cheers,

Same here. I saw this "banding" in the center a few times during Idol.

kdg454

01-26-07, 08:14 PM

kdg:

I get dropouts; but it is not as severe as what you are showing. Mine tends to be a much smaller band near the center of the picture. That's all I get.

Cheers,
John,
What you described, is really all I see, in live time. Only when I go back and break 1 second down into 75-100 frames is where I can see all that weird stuff.
I watched that same segment live, when it was on, and it was just a momentary blip. As a note, I watched it live via OTA. I had recorded it on both 622's, one from the SAT local, and the other OTA. I saw that dropout live, and it was on both recordings.

Andrew,
If you search on my and Scott's name, we both posted screenshots comparing OTA to Dish and DTV SAT locals...it was a couple of weeks back, and they were within a few days of each other.

EDIT: I found them for you....I had forgotten, with all of Scott's posts, it would have taken you forever :D
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9325021#post9325021
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9331027#post9331027

black_macleod

01-26-07, 09:16 PM

Blues vs Red Wings looks great in HD tonight on FSMW!

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 09:26 PM

Andrew, I have D* and can never see a difference in PQ compared to OTA. Before my Tivo got a software update the other night, I would not watch the local Fox affiliate due to audio dropouts. I would instead watch D* channel 88 Fox via NY. Now, after the Tivo update I will give the local Fox channel 2.1 OTA a try again. I do like to support the local economy, so maybe I'll see a local ad to take advantage of.

Scott

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 09:29 PM

Blues vs Red Wings looks great in HD tonight on FSMW!

Capitols/Hurricanes looked good too. Go Blues!

Scott

black_macleod

01-26-07, 09:37 PM

Great win! What a season turn around .... hope we can beat Nashville tomorrow.

Scott Tucker

01-26-07, 09:50 PM

Just watched Serena Williams Kill Sharapova in the Finals of the French Open. Too bad it was not in HD. :(

tcfila

01-26-07, 10:07 PM

Sweet! What location?

I'm assuming the Clarkson one. According to their website (Khts), they will have a someone there from 1:30-3:30.

phatty

01-27-07, 09:35 AM

Well for those that doubt Charters ability to bill correctly just saw my first bill since being changed directly from one promo to the other and everything looks good.

Here is how my bill is itemized.
Biggest Value Package 39.99
HD HBO/Cinemax 0.00
HD Showtime 0.00
DVR Service 11.98
HD Service 0.00
HD Tier 6.99
Video On Demand Services 0.00
Sub Total $58.96
Plus all da taxes then.....

So happy to see that for now... at least till it expires in 6months. I think my last promo charged 50.99 for the Biggest Package..

Where is that free antenna offer online??? Not seeing it, and although I have an antenna can't hurt to get another... Plus my pops on Charter needs an antenna.

-Phatty

phatty

01-27-07, 09:52 AM

Found info online.... But doesn't confirm any promotion details...

Mark Klose at the Sound Room
WHERE · Sound Room (1661 Clarkson Road)
WHEN · Saturday, January 27, 2007
TIME · 1:30-3:30pm

Join Mark Klose on Saturday at the Sound Room (1661 Clarkson Road).

editedfor earlier brainfart on my
words

Mr_Bester

01-27-07, 10:57 AM

I think you just bring in your hd cable bill and they give you an antenna, I don't remember which one though. Good luck....

jmeitz

01-27-07, 11:03 AM

Are you a lineman or management?

IT department, do programming, project management and working with BPM tools.

DLSDO

01-27-07, 11:55 AM

Well for those that doubt Charters ability to bill correctly just saw my first bill since being changed directly from one promo to the other and everything looks good.-Phatty

Thanks for the info :)

Chazb

01-27-07, 11:55 AM

black_macleod

01-27-07, 12:04 PM

Well I gave charter kudos earlier I will have to take some of it back.My on demand has been out for 2 days and with no nfl network and kmov and kdnl in hd it is not good.I also called to see if they would throw in a hd dvr at my same price as to what I am paying now and they said no way.That is what I get for taking up for them.

Usually when VOD goes out, it means the box isn't connecting to the nework right and getting a proper IP address ... it happened to me once and they just sent a signal down the line and fixed it.

Chazb

01-27-07, 01:16 PM

Usually when VOD goes out, it means the box isn't connecting to the nework right and getting a proper IP address ... it happened to me once and they just sent a signal down the line and fixed it.

You are so right sir but it took a awful long time.They are going to send a tech out so maybe I will get a newer updated box.

phatty

01-27-07, 01:48 PM

Just got my free antenna.....They didn't even seem to care about my charter bill....It sais on it model db2 from antennasdirect...and they asked where you lived so I believe they had different models there depending on how far you are from the antennas.

Edited to fix mistakes from typing from posting the original message from my phone.

kdg454

01-27-07, 02:02 PM

Just got my free antenna.....They didn't even seem to care about my charter bill....It sais on it model db2...and they asked where you lived it seemed to get you the right antenna
The member who lives 75 miles away, in IL, should pop in there :D

IMO, that's a stroke-of-genius in spending advertising $$'s!

Was there much activity there, Phatty?

phatty

01-27-07, 02:19 PM

The member who lives 75 miles away, in IL, should pop in there :D

IMO, that's a stroke-of-genius in spending advertising $$'s!

Was there much activity there, Phatty?

I was in an out in 3 mins..... Wish the wife and I would have gone in separate to get 2 antennas(my pops needs one but is to lazy to drive and get one). Also they are outdoor antennas FYI so you still need something to mount this to in order for it to do much good.

-Phatty

Saluki

01-27-07, 03:02 PM

I just flipped on the golf tournament via CBS-HD OTA & there is about a 2 second sound delay - extremely annoying. Has anyone one else noticed this?

Scott Tucker

01-27-07, 03:18 PM

I just flipped on the golf tournament via CBS-HD OTA & there is about a 2 second sound delay - extremely annoying. Has anyone one else noticed this?

Mine is spot on via HD-Tivo on D*. I love this tournament as I have played Torrey Pines probably 100's of times. As a kid I could play it for $18 since I was a San Diego resident. I'm looking forward to seeing this in HD, and also the US Open is at Torrey Pines next year.

Scott

DLSDO

01-27-07, 03:26 PM

I was in an out in 3 mins..... Wish the wife and I would have gone in separate to get 2 antennas(my pops needs one but is to lazy to drive and get one). Also they are outdoor antennas FYI so you still need something to mount this to in order for it to do much good.

-Phatty

You can put that "outdoor antenna" in your attic and just lean it against a riser.

Scott Tucker

01-27-07, 03:27 PM

The member who lives 75 miles away, in IL, should pop in there :D

IMO, that's a stroke-of-genius in spending advertising $$'s!

Was there much activity there, Phatty?

Sorry Ken, but I must disagree on this one. Personally, I think it's a big waste of time and money for the Sound Room. If it is like most retail freebies, it will not make them any money at all. Unfortunately, most people will rush in, grab the antenna and rush out. The person The Sound Room is needing as a client and the person looking for a free antenna are probably not the same. Having been in reatail for many years and gone through many of these types of promotions, I can hoestly say not one was succesful.

Scott

Chazb

01-27-07, 03:46 PM

Mine is spot on via HD-Tivo on D*. I love this tournament as I have played Torrey Pines probably 100's of times. As a kid I could play it for $18 since I was a San Diego resident. I'm looking forward to seeing this in HD, and also the US Open is at Torrey Pines next year.

Scott

And where do you play at now Scott?