RCA DTA800 Digital to Analog TV Converter Box [Text View]

kenglish

11-06-07, 08:34 AM

I have one of the prototypes of that unit, together with the DX Antenna DTA-5000:

http://www.dxantenna.co.jp/english/products/active_antenna/dta5000.html

The antenna is a pair of crossed dipoles, together with a solid-state routing matrix, which feeds different combinations of the four antenna elements to a preamp. The preamp has several gain settings, and has bandpass filters for the major TV bands (VHF-Low, VHF-High, and UHF).

The power and control signals are multiplexed on to the single coax, using a little interface box that sits behind the receiver.

When you scan the STB, it goes to channel 2, tries all combinations of antenna "directions" (it can create 16 possible azimuths by electronically switching the elements), and then...if it sees something resembling a DTV signal...it fine tunes the filters, azimuth, and preamp gain for the best signal. This is done using signal strength and signal "Q" (Quality, using the error correction signals within the STB), and the settings are then stored in the STB. Then, it tries channel 3, and so on.

Most of the newer chipsets for DTV have the interface capability, but this is only one of a couple of boxes I have seen that implement it. The NTIA specs, for the "subsidized" converters allow it to be used.

I think it's pretty slick. I hope more manufacturers start implementing it.

BTW, if you can find them, the DTA-5000 sells for about $80-100, street-price.

Mloot

11-06-07, 09:27 AM

Kenglish, if you're allowed to talk about it, have you been able to test the prototype with a normal antenna setup? I'm sure I'm not the only one who has wondered if the upcoming "cheap" converter boxes are as sensitive and as good at multipath rejection as higher-end STB's like the Samsung DTB-H260F.

Whidbey

11-09-07, 11:00 PM

Looks like this box is definitely intended for the coupon program.
http://www.keepmytv.com/

roger1818

11-12-07, 10:07 PM

My question is when will the DTA800 be available in stores? My guess is they are waiting until 2008 when the coupon program starts.

Whidbey

11-13-07, 12:23 AM

My question is when will the DTA800 be available in stores? My guess is they are waiting until 2008 when the coupon program starts.

That's what RCA's website says.

aaronwt

01-01-08, 11:13 AM

I just signed up for my $40 coupons.

BruceAZ

01-02-08, 03:39 PM

vman41

01-03-08, 07:17 AM

As of today, 01/02/2008, I could not find the RCA DTA800 on the NTIA web site listing boxes approved for the coupon program. Maybe it will show up at a later date

Thomson recently sold its consumer electronics business to Audiovox, perhaps the new owner decided to drop the product.

vman41

01-03-08, 07:23 AM

When you scan the STB, it goes to channel 2, tries all combinations of antenna "directions" (it can create 16 possible azimuths by electronically switching the elements), and then...

I count 15 combinations choosing at least 1 element. The 16th combination is 'none', which is probably the best choice more times than you'd think.

Whidbey

01-03-08, 02:43 PM

As of today, 01/02/2008, I could not find the RCA DTA800 on the NTIA web site listing boxes approved for the coupon program. Maybe it will show up at a later date.

http://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm

I also searched for it on Amazon, but no luck.

https://usm.channelonline.com/maglobal/storesite/Products/Overview/?id=M004064277
http://www.techdepot.com/pro/product.asp?stchg=1&productid=5625626&affid=10000485
http://www.compsource.com/ttechnote.asp?part_no=78770&vid=1176&src=F

I don't know if any of these retailers are or will be equipped to accept coupons.

wmcbrine

01-04-08, 02:28 PM

Looks like this box is definitely intended for the coupon program.
http://www.keepmytv.com/Heh. Dig the old guy... they could've made him a generic cartoon character of unspecified age, but they specifically made him old. Shows who they think their target market is, I guess.

dt_dc

01-04-08, 02:49 PM

Heh. Dig the old guy... they could've made him a generic cartoon character of unspecified age, but they specifically made him old.Heh heh ... good catch.

Avio

01-04-08, 07:29 PM

Whidbey

01-04-08, 11:03 PM

Heh. Dig the old guy... they could've made him a generic cartoon character of unspecified age, but they specifically made him old. Shows who they think their target market is, I guess.

Yeah, but the young sales guy doesn't fit the stereotype of the typical BB/CC store. He appears helpful.

Old Guy - "Do you have one of them there converter box thingys?"
BB/CC Sales Guy - "You mean a satellite system? That will get you more channels! And you won't have to spend a penny today!"

holl_ands

02-03-08, 11:33 AM

Whodart

02-14-08, 01:01 PM

Hi. Getting ready to convert a couple analog TV's to digital and shopping for converter box. Looking at LG LSX300-4DM, Insignia (NS-DXA1), Xenith DTT900, Philips TB100MW9, Digital Stream DX8700, DSP6500N, DSP7700T, D2A1D10, D2A1D20, Ngki Lik NL8008, NL8009, THompson RCA DTA800B and Maxmedia MMDTV803. Has anyone done enough research on these to recommend any of them? Solid Signal trying to sell Channel Master and Sansonic brands.

Dave E:confused:

Avio

02-14-08, 01:17 PM

Hi. Getting ready to convert a couple analog TV's to digital and shopping for converter box. ... Has anyone done enough research on these to recommend any of them? ... There are reviews and comments about various converter boxes in the following thread:

LG's Zenith-branded DTT900 Digital to Analog Converter Box
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=948767

In particular, concentrate on the latest several pages (8, 9, 10, 11).

Avio

Whodart

02-15-08, 09:21 AM

Thanks AVIO. I found that post after I asked for information. I have been looking at all of them, most are for ATSC only and don't provide for Analog
tuner. I assume all you have to do is turn the converter off and let the RF signal pass thru to the TV.

Dave E Reason for that is I want to use wife's TV in kitchen for anlog and digital until the changeover. She likes to record her soaps and cut the commercials out, we still old fashioned, don't have TIVO or a DVR. I wanted a converter box that will let me use both. ALready have a good antenna and get local HD signals thru my DISH receiver, just gonna split it off and run it to kitchen for her.

Sammer

02-15-08, 02:00 PM

I assume all you have to do is turn the converter off and let the RF signal pass thru to the TV.

Unfortunately (as FCC Chairman Martin belatedly realized) RF pass through is not a requirement but an optional feature of the CECBs so don't assume.

holl_ands

02-16-08, 02:54 AM

evanshadduck

02-24-08, 10:05 PM

I only have analog TV equipment: TV, VCR, DVR Recorder

It seems that to record DTV signals, if I purchase a converter, it would have to feed my analog equipment.

Is there a converter that can be programmed to switch between DTV channels so multiple programs from various channels may be recorded when I am away for a few days? (obviously having the DVD recorder set to "input 1" or such for all the recordings) Thank you.

Scooper

02-24-08, 11:11 PM

None out yet. Check out the Echostar / Sling Media TR40 when it comes out - it's supposed to have VCR timers.

You may also want to check out the Echostar TR50 when it comes out - it's supposed to to be a dual ATSC tuner DVR .

w0en

02-25-08, 12:33 AM

Picked up an 800B model (there has been reported an A model that uses an older chipset) at a Walmart on Saturday. I had picked up an Insignia box at BB on Monday so I have the two to compare. I haven't had much time to play with it this weekend, hope to have more time during the week. Initial reactions are that this box has a very, very basic feature set compared to the Insignia box. Not to say it doesn't work very well at the most basic level for it's intended audience as I have been using it tonight. Looks like it has only two global aspect ratio settings available only from the menu and no way to switch on the fly with the remote without going to the menus. Remote has large buttons. Channel information display box is very large. I don't have a smart antenna so I have no way to check that feature out. I remember seeing a deep scan option for the smart antenna that I can't find any more. I have not found a way to add non automatically scanned channels and it appears to refuse to take a direct UHF channel input that isn't already in the scanned list. I just checked again and it refuses any kind of a direct RF channel entry that I can tell, scanned in previously or not. When the scanned in channel is too weak it drops down to the next channel it can pick up. It appears to "hang up" when it misses a channel (can't decode it and complains about signal strength) in the list and won't take a new direct entry until you push the channel up/down to a channel it can decode/receive. I'm hoping to get time to make an A/B/C comparison against the Insignia/Zenith box and the older generation HD Directv boxes I have been using up until now. Both coupon boxes appear to do a better job with multipath. My LG based tuners (Sony HD200, Zenith 520, LSS-3200A and my Hisense USDTV box) can't get my main locals at the same time I pick up my out of DMA stations when I am pointed at them. Both coupon boxes reliably pick up all the locals on the back side of the antenna when pointed at the out of DMA stations. None of the older chipset based boxes will pick up more than a couple of the stations this way. The box suffers from the common engineering/programming design assumption malady that antenna rotors don't exist and all consumers get all their viewable channels from the same static direction at the same time and that all channels are on the air 24/7. I have a couple that go off the air at midnight from smaller markets, so don't run a channel scan after that time. I have found no way to get it to keep all channels found, each scan erases previous channels and starts fresh. Direct RF channel broadcast entry results in the unit moving to the closest match of the entered numbers. I lost 4 southern DMA channels on a scan trying to pick up a NW channel. My main channels are at 2 degrees. Both the composite and the RF channels outputs look good, almost DVD quality, certainly better than an NTSC analog signal, although without an S-Video option some "crawl" can sometimes be noticed on dots, herringbone patterns and colored stripes in closeups, not an uncommon problem with composite video. My test set is a very low mileage late 90's 27" RCA with the built in Gemstar Guide plus+ used by Thomson on most of their RCA/GE's of that era. It has both Composite and RF inputs for quick comparison and I'd be hard pressed to tell the difference. RF and Composite signals are output simultaneously for viewing/recording at the same time. I have some older VCR's that I would like to test out with some recording next, when I get some time. The unit has no RF pass through when off.

Packeteers

02-25-08, 11:26 AM

Picked up an 800B model (there has been reported an A model that uses an older chipset) at a Walmart on Saturday. I don't have a smart antenna so I have no way to check that feature out. I remember seeing a deep scan option for the smart antenna that I can't find any more.

can you please check your Walmart receipt and post their stock number so I know what to ask for in my local store? I'm specifically looking for a smartantenna box to use my $40 coupon on. since NewEgg's smartantenna box is sold by mail order, I don't know if the coupon can be used there as easily as any local cash & carry.

w0en

02-25-08, 11:41 AM

Don't have the receipt with me now, but they were selling two brands - a Magnavox and the RCA. The RCA's were in a stack. There was only one Magnavox there but others are reporting some DOA out of the box with that unit and the Walmart was 30 miles from home. I had only seen kenglish's preliminary evaluation report on the RCA so far, so I went with it. On the bottom of the shipping box it is marked 800B on a sticker if you can examine it in the store. I'll look for the receipt at lunchtime when I go home to find the SKU of the unit.

Packeteers

02-25-08, 11:44 AM

I'll look for the receipt at lunchtime when I go home to find the SKU of the unit.

Thanks. I live far from a Walmart, so I don't want to go unless I can confirm over the phone they have the later B smartantenna version in stock. I look forward to reading more of your feedback on all the boxes you have tried.

w0en

02-25-08, 01:29 PM

Thanks. I live far from a Walmart, so I don't want to go unless I can confirm over the phone they have the later B smartantenna version in stock. I look forward to reading more of your feedback on all the boxes you have tried.

UPC for the DTA800B from the box is 34909 72047
Walmart receipt is marked with the S/N of the unit and it is imprinted on the next receipt line as "converterbox 003490972047". I believe both the A & B models have the same smartantenna capability, they use a different chipset to do the decoding.

Packeteers

02-25-08, 04:09 PM

Walmart seems to internally use a 9 digit product number which probably starts with "00", do you have any idea from the reciept or walmart box sticker what that number could be? Walmart's web sight shows it as 000502155 for what we presume is the older "A" non SmartAntenna model. I guess that 003490972047 is the Walmart number. It's impossible to get anyone on the phone with Walmart to figure out their internal part number distinction. I called 5 different stores, and was either left on hold, hung up on, or transferred back and force between departments. apparently they don't have access to internal computers to look anything up, only the cash register bar code readers do. Thanks for reminding me why I never shop there...

seatacboy

02-25-08, 04:34 PM

Whidbey

02-25-08, 05:29 PM

Direct RF channel broadcast entry results in the unit moving to the closest match of the entered numbers.

Are you trying to manually enter in the physical or virtual channel numbers?

Both the composite and the RF channels outputs look good, almost DVD quality, certainly better than an NTSC analog signal, although without an S-Video option some "crawl" can sometimes be noticed on dots, herringbone patterns and colored stripes in closeups, not an uncommon problem with composite video.

I sometimes get the same issue with my Samsung DTB-H260F, hooked to an analog Sony TV via component video.

BobDiaz

02-25-08, 07:56 PM

Woen: thanks for the report. Sounds like the RCA DTA800B is frustrating in terms of not allowing manual input of a channel, the Insignia/Zenith has somewhat more functional options. How user-friendly is the Insignia/Zenith remote?

I have not tested the RCA unit, but I do have the Zenith DTT900 converter. It's simple, easy to work with and works very well. Here's a link that will provide inside photos, outside photos, user guide, and more. I think you find that the Zenith/Insignia easy to use.

https://fjallfoss.fcc.gov/oetcf/eas/reports/ViewExhibitReport.cfm?mode=Exhibits&RequestTimeout=500&calledFromFrame=N&application_id=406918&fcc_id=\\\'BEJ9QKE00710\\\'

You won't find S-Video or RF pass through on the Zenith box, BUT if all you want is a basic converter that works very well, the Zenith does the trick.

Sincerely,

Bob Diaz

Packeteers

02-25-08, 08:19 PM

those photos at least are very out dated.
neither Zenith nor Insignia units based on
LG chips have the SmartAntenna anymore.

Avio

02-25-08, 08:30 PM

those photos at least are very out dated.
neither Zenith nor Insignia units based on LG chips have the SmartAntenna anymore.That's because those photos are Beta test versions; prototypes used in the preliminary Federal certification process.

Avio

w0en

02-26-08, 01:54 AM

Woen: thanks for the report. Sounds like the RCA DTA800B is frustrating in terms of not allowing manual input of a channel, the Insignia/Zenith has somewhat more functional options. How user-friendly is the Insignia/Zenith remote?

The remote on the Insignia has quite a few buttons. It has a signal button to quickly check signal, a recall for the last channel, favorite button and a zoom for changing aspect ratio 4 ways. The unit has 45 TV control codes built in to turn your TV off/on.

Volume control controls sound output to TV same as on the LG based Directv boxes I have been using up until now, so you set the TV volume to a higher level and control it that way. It has a mute button that shuts off the sound but no option to then go to CC automatically like some newer TV's do - on the RCA the remote contols the TV's volume directly.
The remote is slightly shorter and not as wide as the RCA box remote.

w0en

02-26-08, 02:10 AM

Are you trying to manually enter in the physical or virtual channel numbers?

I sometimes get the same issue with my Samsung DTB-H260F, hooked to an analog Sony TV via component video.

I'm entering the actual RF channel numbers, ie; if I put in 46 which is virtual 47 it goes to virtual channel 4 which is in it's previously memorized scanlist . On one of my TV's (Samsung) that same action will find an unscanned RF channel and add it in, changing it to the virtual number obtained from the PSIP.

That's a problem caused by combining two signals on composite that S-Video generally solves by separating them. Can't say I have seen it on component input, myself. I also have a Samsung SIR-451 hooked in with component leads to a Sony RP unit on another set but haven't noticed that effect. YMMV

dmulvany

02-26-08, 05:09 PM

Picked up an 800B model

Does this box have digital closed captioning features? Or does it only pass through analog closed caption features to your TV, which may be automatic? Have you tested whether that works by turning on your TV's closed caption features?

(The box sounds like it is difficult to work with, however, so it may not be ideal anyway.)

Dana

blacksburg98

02-26-08, 06:27 PM

Does this box have digital closed captioning features? Or does it only pass through analog closed caption features to your TV, which may be automatic? Have you tested whether that works by turning on your TV's closed caption features?

(The box sounds like it is difficult to work with, however, so it may not be ideal anyway.)

Dana
It does have digital CC, but I have problems on digital CC of a particular channel. I suspect all boxes have the same problems, because I have tested 3 RCA boxes. It also pass through analog closed caption features to your TV.

roger1818

02-26-08, 07:16 PM

It also pass through analog closed caption features to your TV.

All boxes should do this. Since the analog CC is stored in the picture, the information will be passd through unless the box intentionally filters it out.

PinkSplice

02-26-08, 11:30 PM

My experiences with the DTA800B:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13067741&postcount=71

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13083789&postcount=82

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13083972&postcount=83

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=13085463&postcount=84

Hope this is of assistance.

dmulvany

02-26-08, 11:44 PM

It does have digital CC, but I have problems on digital CC of a particular channel. I suspect all boxes have the same problems, because I have tested 3 RCA boxes. It also pass through analog closed caption features to your TV.

The problem with digital CC is probably due to the station on that channel not transmitting digital captions, which is NOT the fault of the converter boxes (particularly if digital captions are showing up from other channels). Unfortunately, a lot of TV stations are still not broadcasting both digital and analog captions on digital channels as required by law. The FCC has not been enforcing this, however, until people complain in writing to the station, still don't get a satisfactory resolution within 45 days, and then complain to the FCC. Most people don't know that and don't see a complaint all the way through to the FCC, so the FCC's official position is that there are few problems with digital captions and thus there isn't a need for them to take action.

Bottom line---write a complaint by snail mail or fax to the station that isn't transmitting digital captions and tell them they need to broadcast both digital and analog captions on all digital channels. If they don't resolve the problem within 45 days, complain to the FCC.

Please mention the network of the affiliate that isn't transmitting the digital captions.

PinkSplice

02-27-08, 12:05 AM

seatacboy

02-27-08, 12:27 PM

PinkSplice: At the risk of sounding a bit naieve, do I understand correctly that the DTA 800 does not allow a "new" RF channel scan beyond the initial setup? How would the DTA 800 work if you brought it to someone else's house (different location) - would it allow a new RF channel scan at the different location - presumably erasing the "old" channel scan?

Packeteers

02-27-08, 12:41 PM

The most annoying problem is the inability to manually add RF channels, and to update and retain new captures.

I'm wondering if you guys are making a big deal out of nothing.
Isn't this box supposed to be the SmartAntenna version, so if
you HAD a SmartAntenna, manually adding channels would be
pointless? I guess what I'm getting at is if I mated this B-Box
with a SmartAntenna, why would I still need manual abilities?

w0en

02-27-08, 04:07 PM

I'm wondering if you guys are making a big deal out of nothing.
Isn't this box supposed to be the SmartAntenna version, so if
you HAD a SmartAntenna, manually adding channels would be
pointless? I guess what I'm getting at is if I mated this B-Box
with a SmartAntenna, why would I still need manual abilities?

We're out of DMA viewers/TV DXers. I can pick up my locals at 41 miles with a 2-Bay outside and they are all from one direction. Believe it or not I don't watch much TV for the content, mainly out of market news. I've got cable for other stuff, this is just a hobby for me. Don't expect an electronically steered crossed dipole antenna to pick up anything close to what an XG91/CM4228 and CM7777 will do, it's not in the physics. We need big ugly antennas with a low WAF to do this. The smartantenna design is for metro/suburban viewers like the round plastic saucer and wing antennas are, low profile and inconspicuous to those that didn't grow up with a TV antenna on every house in the neighborhood, the bigger, the better. As they have been so hard to get a hold of there isn't a lot of performance data in the real world on the forums out there, regarding range and ability. I would expect them to work good beyond the range where inside antenna are no longer an option. I'm planning on getting one when they are more available to play with myself, that's why I wanted the RCA box.

blacksburg98

02-27-08, 04:38 PM

The problem with digital CC is probably due to the station on that channel not transmitting digital captions, which is NOT the fault of the converter boxes (particularly if digital captions are showing up from other channels). Unfortunately, a lot of TV stations are still not broadcasting both digital and analog captions on digital channels as required by law. The FCC has not been enforcing this, however, until people complain in writing to the station, still don't get a satisfactory resolution within 45 days, and then complain to the FCC. Most people don't know that and don't see a complaint all the way through to the FCC, so the FCC's official position is that there are few problems with digital captions and thus there isn't a need for them to take action.

Bottom line---write a complaint by snail mail or fax to the station that isn't transmitting digital captions and tell them they need to broadcast both digital and analog captions on all digital channels. If they don't resolve the problem within 45 days, complain to the FCC.

Please mention the network of the affiliate that isn't transmitting the digital captions.
I believe the digital CC problem is due to the performance of the Broadcom processor. I change the background of the caption to solid black instead of semi-transparency. It worked most of time on that particular channel now. The channel ,6.1 ,is actually PBS and it works when I just open the box. I suspect the processor is not able to catch up with the workload of a semi-transparency background.

Packeteers

02-27-08, 07:22 PM

I'm planning on getting one when they are more available to play with myself, that's why I wanted the RCA box.

why bother? you're 50 miles from anywhere.
so why waste $80 on a flying saucer that
was never designed for your situation :rolleyes:

you only avoided my question; why would anyone
need to manually program in stations, if they were
depending on SmartAntenna for all their fine tuning?

drla

02-28-08, 01:03 AM

holl_ands

02-28-08, 02:44 AM

I'm wondering if you guys are making a big deal out of nothing.
Isn't this box supposed to be the SmartAntenna version, so if
you HAD a SmartAntenna, manually adding channels would be
pointless? I guess what I'm getting at is if I mated this B-Box
with a SmartAntenna, why would I still need manual abilities?
I've had the Sylvania 6900DTE and DTA-5000 for quite a while now.
It takes about 20 min for a full Smart Antenna scan (16 compass headings).

Since multipath can vary from hour to hour and day to day, I would like to
see a "refresh Smart Antenna settings" for just the current channel....

BTW: For VHF band, it uses two crossed dipoles...with loading coils to adjust VSWR/resonance.
For UHF band, it uses two-element Yagi antennas directed at each of four compass headings...
with loading coils/traps to adjust VSWR/resonance...plus low gain Preamps.

In side-by-side tests, it performed about the same as a 4-Bay antenna w. Preamp.
[Any antenna trying to cover 2:1 UHF band is going to have terrible VSWR].

So it's better than it's small size would imply....although no contest vs CM-4228.

=====================================
I'm looking forward to looking inside the RCA & GE Smart Antennas....
And will pass on the Broadcom/Pause-TV Quad-Loop plus VHF Rabbit Ears....

Packeteers

02-28-08, 10:59 AM

blacksburg98

02-28-08, 12:23 PM

I've had the Sylvania 6900DTE and DTA-5000 for quite a while now.
It takes about 20 min for a full Smart Antenna scan (16 compass headings).

Since multipath can vary from hour to hour and day to day, I would like to
see a "refresh Smart Antenna settings" for just the current channel....

BTW: For VHF band, it uses two crossed dipoles...with loading coils to adjust VSWR/resonance.
For UHF band, it uses two-element Yagi antennas directed at each of four compass headings...
with loading coils/traps to adjust VSWR/resonance...plus low gain Preamps.

In side-by-side tests, it performed about the same as a 4-Bay antenna w. Preamp.
[Any antenna trying to cover 2:1 UHF band is going to have terrible VSWR].

So it's better than it's small size would imply....although no contest vs CM-4228.

=====================================
I'm looking forward to looking inside the RCA & GE Smart Antennas....
And will pass on the Broadcom/Pause-TV Quad-Loop plus VHF Rabbit Ears....
From your description, RCA DTA800B does not have a real time feedback system to steer the antenna. I may have to reconsider the other set top box if that is the case. I go to Broadcom's website, but I can not find information about how its chip steers the antenna.

w0en

02-28-08, 12:34 PM

why bother? you're 50 miles from anywhere.
so why waste $80 on a flying saucer that
was never designed for your situation :rolleyes:

you only avoided my question; why would anyone
need to manually program in stations, if they were
depending on SmartAntenna for all their fine tuning?

Same reasons I already own two coupon boxes and haven't received any coupons yet, curiosity and experimentation. Reading the post above from someone that has actually played with a Smartantenna and compares it to an amped 4-Bay only makes me more curious. On my main TV's for viewing (the ones the wife watches) I get great signals on all the network stations with an unamplified 4-Bay, split once at less than 20 feet. For the next year, we are in a unique situation with both Megawatt analog and digital stations on the air, lots of high power adjacent and co-channel interferance potential. What happens next February, nobody is 100% certain. I want to have a baseline experience for comparison purposes. My expectations are things will get even better for DTV reception, especially on the weaker stations presently on the next channel over from a high powered analog.

The FCC coverage patterns don't assume 100% 24/7 coverage for many stations for all areas. Some viewers live in less than ideal pickup areas because of topography or vegetation. I have relatives with a lake cabin in this catagory that I will have to work on this summer. Some viewers will only get sporatic coverage for certain stations under good atmospheric conditions. The ability to add stations manually to their scan without losing existing channels may be important to them. While I can easily get all the major stations at my location, there are some LP stations with alternative programming that will flash cut to digital at low power next Feb. Having them in the scan would be a plus for me. As mentioned in a post above and also in the RCA 800B documentation a "deep scan" can take 20-50 minutes.

All things considered, my intent is not to discredit this box, it works great for me here as designed with a regular antenna to watch the stations most people in this area watch 100% of the time. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it to anyone that can get all their desired channels in one scan and wouldn't need the capability to ever add channels manually.

holl_ands

02-28-08, 04:51 PM

holl, I was going to PM this, but I figured since many urban/suburban consumers considering the DTA800B may spring for a DTA5000, that maybe I should ask this question here so others searching for answers may benefit.

after owning your SmartAntenna for a while now, do you notice Birds gravitating toward it's large flat surface any more then they do a typical stick antenna? we have a lot of common sparrows and pigeons here, even during the winter, and I'd like to keep them off my Antenna.

I would use Plastic spikes - no metal, to make sure they don't interfere with antenna reception. I could affix them to the top of the antennas plastic chassis with silicon, and perhaps out on to the antennas 4 poles as well. Do you have any thoughts on this matter?

http://www.birdspikes.co.uk/images/allplasticlrg.jpg http://www.dxantenna.co.jp/english/images/products/dta5000_ant.jpg

I never left the DTA-5000 outside, so I don't know whether our
big crows could get a grip on one of the dipoles---it would take
a rather large claw. Plastic pieces look like a good plan...

blacksburg98:
The old Sylvania 6900DTE scans and doesn't update settings.

Until someone tests the new boxes, we can only hope for better algorithms.
I have not seen such a test for the RCA DTA-800A or B.

FYI: I posted links to Smart Antenna test report et. al. in
CECB SD-STB COMPARISON THREAD:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13015675&highlight=dta-5000#post13015675

PinkSplice

02-28-08, 09:37 PM

blacksburg98

02-29-08, 02:29 AM

blacksburg98:
The old Sylvania 6900DTE scans and doesn't update settings.

Until someone tests the new boxes, we can only hope for better algorithms.
I have not seen such a test for the RCA DTA-800A or B.

MaxMedia MMDTVB03 may has some good features on smart antenna. Its power consumption is 8.5W when smart antenna is used. 6W if smart antenna is not used. The only explanation is that TI TVP9007 is processing the signals and giving feedback to the smart antenna. Broadcom's chip seems to be a dumb "smart antenna" interface.

from maxmedia's website,
We are glad that Maxmedia chose TI's TVP9007 HDTV processor for their converter box design and are happy to see it achieve NTIA certificaton," said Li Zhang, business development manager for Texas Instruments. "We have enjoyed working with MaxMedia to help enable solutions for this important broadcasting change."

Among the features that Maxmedia touts are a robust OSD, S-Video, Composite output as well as a smart antenna solution that promises better picture quality and channel reception stability by using an advanced technology to lock onto OTA (Off the Air) signals.

We will be sure until someone has tested maxmedia box.

Packeteers

02-29-08, 01:54 PM

The only explanation is that TI TVP9007 is processing the signals and giving feedback to the smart antenna.

but you don't know that for a fact. it could just be wasting energy.

obviously if that box was regularly rescanning the UHF for optimal tuning,
that would be awesome, so there would be no need to do a painful 20 minute rescan,
or hope for some manual scan by channel feature.
but all this may be wishful thinking, at this point :(

for what it's worth, I asked Maxmedia the question;
http://maxmedia-usa.com/index.php?option=com_fireboard&Itemid=23&func=view&catid=11&id=15#15
hopefully someone there with half a brain responds.

seatacboy

03-02-08, 10:43 AM

While waiting to receive my $40 coupons, I decided to buy an RCA DTA800 at Wal*Mart to see if OTA DTV is even a viable option at my condo. Purchased on Friday, this unit is labeled as a DTA800, not as a DTA800A or DTA800B.

For the past few years, I've used Limited Cable Service due to poor analog OTA reception at my condo unit: the bottom floor unit in a complex of three-story buildings.

The DTA800 is connected to a four-year-old KLH Digital 20" standard-def TV and a six-year-old Recoton amplified indoor antenna. I've eceive some, but not all, local Seattle DMA DTV channels.

This is a very difficult reception spot, similar to being in a basement on a hillside facing away from the major TV transmitters. I may try different antennas in the north-facing window of my condo unit.

While the RCA's control functionality definitely seems "dumbed down", the set has delivered more channels than I expected. The remote control itself is very user-friendly. In my condo unit, the very highest signal strength I've been able to capture was 60-62% on KCPQ 13.1. Most of the channels received (KWPX, KBTC, KUNS) have been coming in at about 25-30% signal strength; KIRO 7.1 and KMYQ 22.1 is coming in at about 15-20% and remains viewable most of the time, but with occasional pixellation, blocking and breakup. Needless to say, I'm hoping for improvement from a better antenna.

My initial impressions of the RCA DTA800 are mildly positive. SD PQ has been very good on some channels. On occasion the audio has frozen up after having several channel changes or getting "hung" on a station with too much signal interference or reception problems. The big-button remote is a treat and was easy to set up as a universal to control my off-brand KLH TV.

While I will soon test a Zenith/Insignia box as well as a different antenna, in all likelihood I'll need to retain cable for the foreseeable future to receive my major network channels. A CECB remains useful to receive some of the subchannels (such as mHz Worldview) which simply aren't being retransmitted by my cable TV system.

Packeteers

03-02-08, 05:52 PM

Purchased on Friday, this unit is labeled as a DTA800, not as a DTA800A or DTA800B.

did this unit have a SmartAntenna jack or not?
the B's do, the A's don't.

if there was no indication on the box about the B
or the SmartAntenna jack, are you able to open
the box in Walmart to check? or is it sealed up.

holl_ands

03-02-08, 06:27 PM

Is there an "A" or "B" in the serial number???
Does the IPG look any different from previous DTA-800B posts?

Perhaps you can remove the cover to jot down big chip and "tin-can" tuner part numbers....

drla

03-02-08, 06:31 PM

Check the bottom of the converter box.

seatacboy

03-03-08, 12:12 AM

Mine's a DTA800B, per the bottom of the converter box. It definitely has a SmartAntenna input.

Are any of the Smart Antennas worth considering for a bad-reception spot like mine, or am I likely to get better results in this difficult-reception spot with an AntennasDirect DB2 placed in the north-facing window?

holl_ands

03-03-08, 03:53 PM

Can you provide your location (preferably nearby cross streets) and/or
post www.tvfool.com results?
And which way does the window face? And are there more apts beyond that?

lexus2108

03-05-08, 12:26 AM

I read that the Zenith DTT900 has analog pass through. that you will get both analog and digital channels.

Does the RCA dtc 800b also have this?

Some of the boxes ONLY do digital signals.

So far I like the RCA because of the BIG buttons and smart antenna feature.

I went to my walmart (2 of them) and they only carry the manovox POS

Does anyone know where to buy them yet? The RCAs

thanks

PS Now I seen other people write zenith DTT900 does NOT have analog pass. Do not know what the truth is for that box

mikemikeb

03-05-08, 04:03 AM

From what I've read about the Zenith (and Insignia?), if the unit is turned on, analog pass-thru works. Since I don't have a unit, I don't know if that's the case or not.

lexus2108

03-05-08, 04:40 AM

From what I've read about the Zenith (and Insignia?), if the unit is turned on, analog pass-thru works. Since I don't have a unit, I don't know if that's the case or not.

Can you explain more to someone new like myself. I thought Analog pass-thru meant that you oust a button on the remote and you get analog or digital. What ever you like.

When I googled the term. I got the above explanation.

Are you saying I have to wire a certain way? Maybe I am not understanding correctly

ty

DrBri99

03-05-08, 08:29 AM

Can you explain more to someone new like myself. I thought Analog pass-thru meant that you oust a button on the remote and you get analog or digital. What ever you like.

When I googled the term. I got the above explanation.

Are you saying I have to wire a certain way? Maybe I am not understanding correctly

ty

What passes through the antenna wire is a Radio Frequency. The radio frequency either carries analog (NTSC) information, or digital (ATSC) information.

The Coupon Eligible boxes only decode the digital signals (ATSC Tuner only). While the box is on, and if you are using the RF output on the converter box, the signals from your antenna are "passed through" to your TV, thus the TV can tune the analog stations.

You must use the coaxial cable to connect to your TV (if you want to pass along the signal to the TV). When the converter box is off, the RF signal is cut-off and will not go to the TV (unless it is one of the boxes with RF pass through).

If you are looking for something with an analog and digital tuner, look into a DVD recorder (or HDD recorder), some of these have a button that allows you to switch between digital and analog stations. What you describe exists, just not on the coupon eligible boxes.

seatacboy

03-05-08, 08:55 AM

RCA's DTA800B does not offer analog pass-through.

seatacboy

03-05-08, 09:07 AM

I returned my RCA DTA800B (bought without a coupon) to Wal*Mart. My impressions of the unit were mildly positive - I really liked the remote control's design- but here were the things which disappointed me:

1. Occasionally losing audio. This seemed to occur either a) after frequent channel changes or b) changing channels after the 800B lost its lock on a tuned station.

2. Display options limited to widescreen or fullscreen.
3. Occasional difficulties getting the unit to respond to channel-change commands.

Nearly all of the problems occurred in a location where signal levels were relatively low. However, the problems persisted even with a change to a different, somewhat better indoor antenna.

It finally occurred to me that the target market for the DTA800B might be less forgiving of the problems than a hobbyist like myself. Hopefully, the bugs relating to audio loss and some inconsistencies in RF performance will be addressed by RCA in an updated version. I generally liked the box, but am ready to pick up an Insignia/Zenith box as soon as the coupons arrive. The DTA800B was good, but didn't seem like it was quite the best unit on the market.

holl_ands

03-05-08, 10:30 AM

Was the audio loss momentarily (like it was reacquiring the signal) or much longer.....

holl_ands

03-05-08, 10:54 AM

Can you explain more to someone new like myself. I thought Analog pass-thru meant that you oust a button on the remote and you get analog or digital. What ever you like.

When I googled the term. I got the above explanation.

Are you saying I have to wire a certain way? Maybe I am not understanding correctly

ty
For those boxes that do not support "RF Pass Thru", in order to alternatively
view digital and analog stations, you must either:

1. Use a standard cable RF Splitter on the antenna coax to feed both the CECB
box and your old TV. Since the coax on the TV is now occupied, you can only
connect CECB to TV via L/R/Video cables (typically White/Red/Yellow).
[Major drawback is reduction in sensitivity by about 4 dB, due to loss in RF Splitter.]
or
2. Use an RF Switch on the antenna coax to feed the CECB and your old TV,
using either an inexpensive manual switch (it's bidirectional):
http://www.amazon.com/Parts-Express-Coaxial-A-Switch/dp/B0002ZPIQ4
or one with remote control:
http://www.radioshack.com/search/index.jsp?kwCatId=&kw=150-1968&origkw=150-1968&sr=1

Of course, even with RF Pass Thru, you'll have to switch between changing digital
channels on the CECB box and analog (NTSC) channels on your old TV.
[Which would have been avoided if they had allowed an integrated NTSC tuner.]

seatacboy

03-05-08, 11:45 AM

Was the audio loss momentarily (like it was reacquiring the signal) or much longer.....
Once the DTA800B lost audio, it wouldn't come back unless I shut off the unit completely then restarted. During five days of evaluation, this happened ten times. In all cases, it seemed to be when the box's RF section could not tune a series of channels or subchannels due to inadequate signal strength, or when a multipath freeze up occurred.

In many respects, the DTA800B was quite impressive although it's possible that the Zenith/Insignia CECBs have a more sensitive RF front end. The audio instability was the primary reason I returned it to the store. I really hope that non-hobbyist consumers who buy the RCA box with the $40 coupon do not experience this particular problem, they won't like the hassle of having to frequently turn the box off and on like a "frozen" computer.

Side comment: The Wal*Mart stores near me apparently were sold out of the RCA CECBs (I bought the only one left at my store last week), but have large stacks of the Magnavox TB100MW9.

BobDiaz

03-05-08, 01:22 PM

lexus2108

03-05-08, 03:13 PM

thanks guys

lexus2108

03-05-08, 03:14 PM

For those boxes that do not support "RF Pass Thru", in order to alternatively
view digital and analog stations, you must either:

1. Use a standard cable RF Splitter on the antenna coax to feed both the CECB
box and your old TV. Since the coax on the TV is now occupied, you can only
connect CECB to TV via L/R/Video cables (typically White/Red/Yellow).
[Major drawback is reduction in sensitivity by about 4 dB, due to loss in RF Splitter.]
or
2. Use an RF Switch on the antenna coax to feed the CECB and your old TV,
using either an inexpensive manual switch (it's bidirectional):
http://www.amazon.com/Parts-Express-Coaxial-A-Switch/dp/B0002ZPIQ4
or one with remote control:
http://www.radioshack.com/search/index.jsp?kwCatId=&kw=150-1968&origkw=150-1968&sr=1

Of course, even with RF Pass Thru, you'll have to switch between changing digital
channels on the CECB box and analog (NTSC) channels on your old TV.
[Which would have been avoided if they had allowed an integrated NTSC tuner.]

First off I want to thank ALL you guys. You guys are the best to help someone who is new to all of this.

That being said I have a question. This BOX is for my Aunt. She is not technical at all. She needs ease of use.

When you say "Use an RF Switch on the antenna" Will I loose sensitivity. As I would with a splitter?

I also read the manavox box did have pass through. Is that correct?

I do not understand why one box can not have all options?

holl_ands

03-05-08, 03:51 PM

First off I want to thank ALL you guys. You guys are the best to help someone who is new to all of this.

That being said I have a question. This BOX is for my Aunt. She is not technical at all. She needs ease of use.

When you say "Use an RF Switch on the antenna" Will I loose sensitivity. As I would with a splitter?

I also read the manavox box did have pass through. Is that correct?

I do not understand why one box can not have all options?
RF Switch has very small loss...which is why it is better....whether external or "RF Pass Thru".

You may want to sit back a couple months and let the "early adopters" play around for awhile.
We've only seen the first few boxes....I counted FIFTY boxes on the latest CECB list:
https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm
That includes SEVEN different boxes from Digital Stream (two with RF Pass Thru).

============================
There are TWO Magnavox boxes on the list.
TB100MG9 presumably has RF Pass Thru whereas TB100MW0 does not.

<bdfox18doe> tested TB100MW9, confirming it does NOT have RF Pass Thru:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13015492&highlight=pass+thru#post13015492

lexus2108

03-05-08, 03:54 PM

I wonder if i can find a small one that has a remote and cheap. Hard for her to get up and down ect. Of course this would work until 2009 feb. Thats why the cheaper the better.

Anyone got a coupon for a AB remote switch lol

Scooper

03-05-08, 04:09 PM

The CECBs are built to a cost, so it's a question of what features the manufacter includes for that price.

holl_ands laid out the two best solutions in his post above if your aunt needs to see both analog and digital for awhile. I think using the a/v solution would be best, or wait until you can find a CECB with analog passthrough.

lexus2108

03-05-08, 05:47 PM

If I use the A/B switch. I am confused on hook up

1) I have an antenna that goes to the A/b switch (IN)

2) The digital converter box also goes to the A/B Switch (in)

3) Cable then goes from A/B Switch to TV

4) QUESTION: What do I use to get antenna signal to Digital converter box?

I made a very crude diagram. To show you how confused I am.

Any help would be appreciated.
http://i31.tinypic.com/htfx3d.jpg

PS No laughing at my pic lol

DigaDo

03-05-08, 06:53 PM

wh5916

03-05-08, 06:59 PM

The Wal*Mart stores near me apparently were sold out of the RCA CECBs (I bought the only one left at my store last week), but have large stacks of the Magnavox TB100MW9.

When I first began browsing online for these converters early last week, am almost certain that the RCA converter was showing as "Available in Stores" at the walmart.com website.

One day later, when I returned to the site, searching with the term "digital converter" only produced a match for the Magnavox unit. Once at the Magnavox page, the RCA converter was listed under the heading "Similar Items." Clicking on that link, though, displayed the following about the RCA unit: "Not Sold Online. Not Sold in Stores." This is how the converter has appeared at walmart.com each day since.

Perhaps it was withdrawn due to the quality control issues that you've spoken of?

Scooper

03-05-08, 07:03 PM

Lexus - antenna => splitter (the single side)

Output1 of splitter to position A of switch
Output2 of splitter to Ant in on CECB

Output of CECB to Position B of switch

single output of switch to ANT IN on TV

Diagram on how to connect

http://rsk.imageg.net/graphics/uc/rsk/Support/ProductManuals/dtv_bypass_rf.pdf

If you have A/V jacks available -
http://rsk.imageg.net/graphics/uc/rsk/Support/ProductManuals/dtv_bypass_av.pdf

holl_ands

03-05-08, 10:31 PM

In either diagram, RF Splitter can be replaced with an A/B RF Switch,
thereby avoiding the 4 dB loss of sensitivity due to loss in the RF Splitter.

Scooper

03-05-08, 11:13 PM

That starts getting complicated though - I'm going to have sufficient signal strength anyway, so I'll be using the RF splitter

Packeteers

03-05-08, 11:23 PM

In either diagram, RF Splitter can be replaced with an A/B RF Switch,
thereby avoiding the 4 dB loss of sensitivity due to loss in the RF Splitter.

Holl, does it matter if the second device is on or not?
say your split your VHF/UFH antenna reception to;
ATSC Box -> TV (DTV reception)
VCR -> TV (Analog reception)

so if you VCR is left OFF, will you still potentially
lose 4db using a Splitter over a A/B RF Switch?

holl_ands

03-06-08, 12:17 AM

Makes no difference whether on or off.

Desert Hawk

03-06-08, 03:15 AM

lexus2108

03-06-08, 04:21 AM

Lexus,

An A/B switch normally indicates two "in" and one "out." Ignore those designations. An A/B switch may be used the other way around so the one "out" is actually an "in" and the two "in" are actually "outs." The antenna is connected to the A/B "out." One "in" goes directly to the TV RF input and the other "in" goes to the converter box RF input. Then the yellow, red, and white RCA composite connections on the converter box go to the corresponding inputs on the TV. Then select the A or B switch to select between the converter box or antenna. Then the TV remote selects the video input to watch through the converter or the normal TV setting to watch through the antenna.

Ok this is what I thought. Her TV does not have "the yellow, red, and white RCA composite connections" Just RF connections. I know, I know it is a Costco special and brand is (guess who) Manavox. I am really beginning to hate them lol

So it looks like according to the GRAPH posted below by SCOOPER. I will need an additional splitter from the antenna to the converter box and the A/B box. Thus loosing some signal. OR wait for a better Converter box to come along in 90 days OR just not use Analog

Let me ask you guys this. I followed other peoples directions from this wonderful forum. I went to Antenna Web and 2150.com. I put in the Address and pulled up what analog/digital stations she gets. Problem is both these lists only go up to channel 69 and my aunt gets channels above that. All the way to 103. The lists also do not show ANY major subs. Such as for example ABC 7.1, 7.2 ,7.3 ect. It just shows 7.1 So I do not know if she gets no subs or it just does not show up like channels over 69?? I guess no way to really know until you hook the unit up to antenna?? This was the reason I wanted Analog Pass through. Just in case some stations didn't make the digital journey. Because according to antenna web and 2150. She will loose stations.

I did want to mention this for people looking for indoor antennas. My aunt has received over 7 to 10 antennas over the years as gifts. NONE worked well. Until I spent $90 to $100 over 9 years ago on a TERK 50. They now make TERK 55. I can tell you over half the Analog stations come in cable quality. It looks like a LONG funny stick, but it works. Those days it was new tech.
She lives in a apartment and gets free ROOF antenna and this TERK 50 works much better. Also works better for her NOT plugged into electric. Just info for you guys.

Again thanks:D

lexus2108

03-06-08, 04:28 AM

I saw an RCA box on demo at Wal-Mart today. Yes, a store finally demoing a box. Well sort of. It did not have an antenna hooked up. It only tuned the in-house demo digital channel (14-1). No remote to play with. It was hooked up to a tv that didn't need a converter box because it has a digital tuner. If Wal-Mart wants to really demo the boxes they need to set up a real world usage situation. Hook it up to a tv that has only an analog tuner (take the old analog tv from the oil change waiting room and put a new digital tv there and use the old analog one to demo the box), hook up an antenna, and leave the remote out for customers to try (tie it to something if theft might be a problem).
Yes the Walmart Website now says RCA not available. I went to 2 stores. One guy tried to help me and I even gave him the walmart product code someone posted here. It did not work. He thought maybe the RCA was a trial and the Manavox was better so no more RCA.

Honestly I never thought this would be so much headache

lexus2108

03-06-08, 06:28 AM

Scooper

03-06-08, 08:23 AM

Ok this is what I thought. Her TV does not have "the yellow, red, and white RCA composite connections" Just RF connections. I know, I know it is a Costco special and brand is (guess who) Manavox. I am really beginning to hate them lol

So it looks like according to the GRAPH posted below by SCOOPER. I will need an additional splitter from the antenna to the converter box and the A/B box. Thus loosing some signal. OR wait for a better Converter box to come along in 90 days OR just not use Analog

Let me ask you guys this. I followed other peoples directions from this wonderful forum. I went to Antenna Web and 2150.com. I put in the Address and pulled up what analog/digital stations she gets. Problem is both these lists only go up to channel 69 and my aunt gets channels above that. All the way to 103. The lists also do not show ANY major subs. Such as for example ABC 7.1, 7.2 ,7.3 ect. It just shows 7.1 So I do not know if she gets no subs or it just does not show up like channels over 69?? I guess no way to really know until you hook the unit up to antenna?? This was the reason I wanted Analog Pass through. Just in case some stations didn't make the digital journey. Because according to antenna web and 2150. She will loose stations.

I did want to mention this for people looking for indoor antennas. My aunt has received over 7 to 10 antennas over the years as gifts. NONE worked well. Until I spent $90 to $100 over 9 years ago on a TERK 50. They now make TERK 55. I can tell you over half the Analog stations come in cable quality. It looks like a LONG funny stick, but it works. Those days it was new tech.
She lives in a apartment and gets free ROOF antenna and this TERK 50 works much better. Also works better for her NOT plugged into electric. Just info for you guys.

Again thanks:D

It sounds like your relative is on cable. Or her TV is set to CABLE and not AIR.

Packeteers

03-06-08, 10:26 AM

I called RCA and They didn't even know the converter BOX was for sale.

many who showed up here in January 2008 when the coupon registration started, don't realize that we are
still considered early adopters. most electronics resellers I've spoken to, won't get seriously into ATSC box
selling and support till Thanksgiving 2008.

lexus2108

03-06-08, 12:34 PM

many who showed up here in January 2008 when the coupon registration started, don't realize that we are
still considered early adopters. most electronics resellers I've spoken to, won't get seriously into ATSC box
selling and support till Thanksgiving 2008.
By then the coupon is expired. May 2008

I wonder why they put 90 day limit on the card. There are just a few boxes out and not much choice at that imo

I can not even buy the RCA with the smart Antenna if I wanted too

Scooper,

Oh now I remember how i set it up. After I hooked up the Antenna I switched TV to CaBLE with TV remote. To get her more stations. It worked but messed up my comparison to the Antenna web and 2150.com

Can you tell me why Subs do not show up on the list? For example 7.1, 7.2, 7.3 ect only 7.1 shows up

Sammer

03-06-08, 04:44 PM

BTW I wanted to mentioned I called RCA and They didn't even know the converter BOX was for sale. They had no clue where to buy it and knew way less about it then you guys.

I tell ya does not give me confidence in RCA.

I called asking where could I buy it

Just a guess but IMHO the first shipment of the RCA boxes to Wal-Mart was probably arranged by Thomson. Now that Audiovox owns the RCA consumer electronics brand they may have different ideas about quality, pricing, etc. of the CECB boxes as well as people who don't yet know what's going on.

holl_ands

03-09-08, 04:17 AM

ttinLV

03-09-08, 05:52 AM

How many hours/days are displayed in EPG?

Is there a Signal Quality (percent or bad/good?) and/or a Signal Level (dB type) display.

Does it use a wallwart power supply (what's VDC output) or does it plug direct into the wall?

What about Analog AND Digital captions?
So far, I only see current program and what's next.

% level

internal power supply with fixed AC cord

It's suppose to have digital caption capability, but I haven't tried them as I never have in the past.

dmulvany

03-09-08, 02:33 PM

It's suppose to have digital caption capability, but I haven't tried them as I never have in the past.

Even if you don't need the captions yourself right now, other people who visit you might need them. The average male starts losing high frequency hearing in his forties, and a third of people in their sixties have hearing loss.

I got an email from one user that she couldn't make her digital captions large on a DigitalStream CECB, so I'm concerned other CECBs could have problems with digital captions as well. It's difficult to find this out this information without personal evaluations of how well the digital captions are designed for each CECB, however.

One person on this thread has reported problems getting consistent captions with the 800B if he used the transparent (or translucent?) background with digital captions from a local PBS station. He had to switch to a solid background to avoid these problems, and thought the Broadcom chip might be at fault.

The Insignia CECB that I've been testing has crashed five different times, perhaps because of an interaction between the digital closed captions and how some TV stations are transmitting their captions.

If anyone would be willing to help evaluate the digital captions of any CECB they're using, please go to the thread on "Evaluating Digital to Analog Converter Boxes for Users of Captioning"
at:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022

Dana

Malouff

03-13-08, 01:09 PM

Can I get the FCC ID numbers of both the RCA DTA800B and RCA DTA800A?
Please respond with the model number and FCCID found on the label on the bottom of the box.
Thank You

satpro

03-17-08, 04:24 PM

Does anyone know what this is output screen is for? It is from a hidden feature on the dta800b I just started testing. I can see chs, snr, pids but I don't know what the rest is for yet. you can get there by pressing channel down and power simultaneously on the front panel, you will have to unplug to reboot afterwards or wait 10-15 minutes to auto reboot,
I will post a complete review and pictures of this model soon. already not to impressed with the tuner sensitivity or video quality of the rca being worse than the funia tb100 series.

holl_ands

03-17-08, 04:58 PM

Fields seem to be for a "no signal" condition.
It would be more interesting if it was tuned to a channel....

satpro

03-17-08, 09:10 PM

BuzzinBlair

03-17-08, 09:23 PM

The Insignia CECB that I've been testing has crashed five different times, perhaps because of an interaction between the digital closed captions and how some TV stations are transmitting their captions.

These CECBs can "crash"?????

The Geritol set is just going to love that. "Hey, I just want to turn on my TV and watch Lawrence Welk reruns. I don't want to have to call up my punk 50 year old kid to fix it every few weeks when it stops working!":rolleyes:

ttinLV

03-18-08, 04:17 PM

Replay3030Owner

03-19-08, 07:27 PM

It appears as though my dta800b made 02-08-08 with ver 4.08 firmware has the broadcom chip and has an uninstalled s-video output port and a service jack that is installed but covered from back panel access.

I will have my full evaluation in the next day or so.

For now here are some views.Thanks for the pics. Yep, definitely a Svideo port is possibly hackable, only question if there are additional components that need to be installed to use it (caps, diodes, transistors, resistors) or if it just would work). Should be easy to test with 3 wires soldered to the pin points to provide ground, luma and chroma).

satpro

03-21-08, 01:45 AM

KenL

03-21-08, 02:24 AM

just determined that this box can be controled by using the same remote code as a rca brand directv satellite receiver this is also the same as the dtc-100. Any one with a replaytv could set up their replay to tune to the main channel and use the directv rca code.The only problem with this box as far as a ReplayTV is concerned (besides the fact that it's so hard to find) is the issue that it won't output anamorphic widescreen. Only 2 options are zoomed and letterbox. All I record on a Replay these days is anamorphic WS.

A minor issue might be that the DTA800B (although the demod is no slouch) still it locks up with major signal interruption. Only requires turning off/then back on with the remote -- not a major deal when watching live. But could be a deal killer with a recorder. This might be mitigated somewhat by using a smart antenna for short/medium range signals.

Otherwise the PQ is decent and this box couldn't be much smaller or easier to use. I really like it. If only it included anamorphic squeeze for use with a recorder.

For those who can find one it may well be a decent choice for Showstopper/2K/3K Replays provided those native blaster codes work.

satpro

03-21-08, 03:10 AM

Using mine with showstopper, I have not noticed any lock ups on my dta800b, but I am using a pretty powerful antenna system which gives me signals in the 70- 90 range.

Main channel is easy to tune but I am even able to tune sub channels programmed in a manual record. For instance, if I want the replay to tune the dta800 to 56-2 I set it to tune channel 0562 or if I want replay to tune to channel 9-2 I set it to tune 0092, the dta800 inserts the dash itself and tunes to the right channel.

As far as anamorphic squeeze I thought that was one of the three required outputs for all these cecb tuners. I guess not. Anyway I record all my anamorphic directly to a dvd recorder that has a digital atsc/qam tuner so their is not quality loss. I am using my dta800 to record 4:3 without a network bug on cbs, abc and fox.

KenL

03-21-08, 04:09 AM

Well that was with a small indoor antenna. It looses signal when when someone walks through the room. The Zenith (and likely any other ATSC box used that way) also has breakup under such conditions. However the Zenith hasn't crashed yet. I've had the DTT900 recording/buffering on a Replay for over a week now. No lockups yet.

The RCA freezes just enough to notice. Locks up (or maybe looses audio I can't remember now) but still responds to the remote. I've never left it alone to see if it reboots (on its own) after such an event.

The RS Accurian would lock up sporadically when left tuned to a somewhat iffy channel back in those days, requiring intervention to reboot. I also had the Samsung 260 hooked to a replay for almost 18 months. At times (if for some reason I had the antenna(s) disconnected -- perhaps while I was reconfiguring) the 260 would (very infrequently) become unresponsive and I would have to dig the box out of a media closet and do a front panel reset.

I haven't operated the RCA yet with a real antenna more than a quick test. But I was half planning on trying a smart antenna. Meanwhile the Zenith is really doing better than anything I've ever used. The primary big improvement would seem to be with adjacent and co-channel interference, perhaps intermod as well. The DTT900 reliably tunes two very difficult channels all but unavailable with previous tuners. For multipath it's still a shootout between the Samsung 260 and the Zenith. My initial hunch is even the RCA seems to outperform the entire previous generation.

sivartk

03-21-08, 07:49 PM

I just bought (with one of my coupons, will request the other later this year) the DTA800B from Wally-world. Hooked it up to my old 1986 12" B&W TV and it worked well. (Actually got all but one local channel with just rabbit ears ... even more strange is it didn't pick up the one VHF digital station, but pulled in all but one of the UHF channels with rabbit ears)

Hooked it up to it's permanent home (bedroom 20" CRT) and have experienced one auto-off (after about 10 minutes of use). Is this normal? I changed the auto-off to never just to be safe.

Desert Hawk

03-21-08, 08:18 PM

When I watch my Durabrand 13 inch tv with digital tuner outdoors sometimes it will completely lose signal when an airplane flies between the antenna and the transmitter. Usually the channel will come back a few seconds later, but sometimes it doesn't and the tv will continue to display "digital channel signal strength is low". If I change the channel and then change it back the old channel will reappear (it isn't necessary to wait for the second channel to lock). Try that with your box next time and see if it unfreezes.

Big Screen TV

03-24-08, 06:37 PM

arxaw

03-24-08, 08:00 PM

I saw the RCA boxes back in stock today (along with the Magnavox boxes) at my local Walmart.
I need a box for each of my two TVs in my motorhome, and like the RCA box because it's made to stand on end (in a vertical position).
I'm still waiting for my coupons and checking this forum for further user reports on the RCA box and others.If you use a rotor or indoor antenna that must be rotated to get all of your channels, get the Magnavox. After your initial scan, you can manually add more channels that you may find by moving the antenna. You can't do that with the RCA.

Replay3030Owner

03-24-08, 09:55 PM

If you use a rotor or indoor antenna that must be rotated to get all of your channels, get the Magnavox. After your initial scan, you can manually add more channels that you may find by moving the antenna. You can't do that with the RCA.

I thought that the scann-and-add was broken on the Magnavox (it was advertised but it doesn't actually work). I could have sworn I read that.

Rammitinski

03-25-08, 01:47 AM

If you use a rotor or indoor antenna that must be rotated to get all of your channels, get the Magnavox. After your initial scan, you can manually add more channels that you may find by moving the antenna. You can't do that with the RCA.There's no way to do that at all with the RCA? Then I have no use for it. That's just one thing I have to have, as I get channels from 3 different directions. Oh, well. I was waiting for this one to show up at my Walmart, but that kills it.

I really won't consider a model unless it can be controlled by a remote code that my DVD recorder's IR blasters use.

arxaw

03-25-08, 07:52 AM

I thought that the scann-and-add was broken on the Magnavox (it was advertised but it doesn't actually work). I could have sworn I read that.That may be true, but I haven't read about it. If you find a link, please post it.

There's no way to do that at all with the RCA? Then I have no use for it. That's just one thing I have to have, as I get channels from 3 different directions.From what I've read, there's no way to add channels to the single scan stored in memory. I'm wanting a STB for DX-ing, so unless someone posts otherwise, this RCA's off the list.

Replay3030Owner

03-25-08, 12:35 PM

That may be true, but I haven't read about it. If you find a link, please post it.

From what I've read, there's no way to add channels to the single scan stored in memory. I'm wanting a STB for DX-ing, so unless someone posts otherwise, this RCA's off the list.

Found them here. They also said the RCA suffers from this too.

Two posts in the Maganvox thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13437429#post13437429

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13458445#post13458445

But an annoying glitch is that when I re-oriented the antenna and keyed in the channel number, the TB100 *still* couldn't "find" the channel. Apparently, I have to completely re-scan, even though the manual promises otherwise--an annoyance.

The problem remains that the only way to add channels is to re-run the scan--still a major negative--though by tweaking antenna position and finding the "sweet spot," I may be able to keep all the channels I've got and add my local CBS affiliate, which typically requires a substantially different antenna orientation to get a decent analog picture. Curiously enough, the RCA STB also seems to have this limitation--perhaps it and the Magnavox use the same chip or have some other similarities under the hood?

...

The Zenith, of course, offers the possibility of being able to add individual channels after running the scan

arxaw

03-25-08, 01:03 PM

I thought that the scann-and-add was broken on the Magnavox (it was advertised but it doesn't actually work). I could have sworn I read that.According to post#1 of the magnavox thread, manual channel add feature is not broken. See:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12967623&postcount=1
Perhaps the author of the above posts was entering the mapped ch #s, instead of the actual physical (RF) ch#.

The RCA doesn't even have the manual add feature.

bdfox18doe

03-25-08, 05:40 PM

Finally got one of the RCA's today. Having the Magnavox,Zenith,Insignia, Digital Stream,and RJTech thus far, I have to say I'd have to put the RCA
down at the bottom with the Magnavox. The big buttons on the remote are about the only thing I like about this unit. It seems sluggish to me compared to others, and the OSD - User interface doesn't seem very refined.
Not sure it will work well for Granny.

Packeteers

03-25-08, 06:57 PM

Finally got one of the RCA's today. Having the Magnavox,Zenith,Insignia, Digital Stream,and RJTech thus far.

so what is your best to worst order for these boxes? ... and briefly why!

seatacboy

03-25-08, 07:09 PM

During the 5 days I tested the RCA DTA800, I was annoyed at several instances of audio freeze-ups occurring after reception problems. In effect, the only cure was a "cold boot" - turning the box fully off and on again. There were other annoying limitations, although the PQ was very good and the remote was very good.

I've been disappointed at some audio fidelity issues with the Zenith DTT-900, but overall it has been satisfactory hooked up to a 2005-vintage Sony 20" WEGA Trinitron KV20FS120 standard-def television.

FYI during a visit to Wal*Mart for some unrelated shopping - including an oil change for my car - I noticed they had a stack of about 30 RCA DTA 800s and only about 4 Magnavox TB100MW9s for sale. This may reflect Wal*Mart's supply logistics rather than a massive preference of Wal*Mart's clients for the Magnavox CECB.

bdfox18doe

03-25-08, 07:15 PM

so what is your best to worst order for these boxes? ... and briefly why!

I base my opinion on whether you can hook them up and make them work
without reading the manual, and then how intuitive they are after that.
I just ordered the channel master, so will have that to add to the pile with some others I have yet to order. The plan is to have one of each on hand.
Individual users may see different things than I do from having the luxury of playing with different models that I don't have to personally pay for.

Picks are as mentioned earlier for now. My overall choice is the Zenith-Insignia, aside for the audio issue. For $10.67 after coupon, I haven't found one that I like better. That's the one I used coupon # 1 for. Holding coupon #2 for a while longer.

Folks must keep in mind these are all basically $20 boxes on average after the coupon and won't be perfect in every respect. Same as with cheap DVD players. People need to take time here and READ the posts, many seem to be in agreement as to the positives and negatives of certain models.

satpro

03-25-08, 09:10 PM

Here is my take on the rca after playing with it for the last week.

A big disappointment with the rca is that it can only output video in 2 formats, letterbox or zoom. It can not output video in the third format which is 16:9 full (16:9 anamorphic squezed to 4:3) like the funias.

The RCA does have a real time signal meter and controls on the box, unlike the magnavox. However, I like the funia magnavox better because the tuner and especially the video levels are far superior to the rca. Since the insignia/ zenith / digital stream all seem to show audio problems I wont even consider them, completely inexcusable even more so than the lack of ventilation on the funia tb100 boxes.

Basically if you need to remote control your converter box you should go with the RCA since it uses the common rca directv remote code set. Otherwise go with the Magnavox tb100 and put in some ventilation yourself. The hue, color, and black levels are all off, way off on the RCA when passing color bars from a broadcast source, the magnavox outputs near identical levels compared to the original source levels. This makes the RCA a no go for me!

I can't believe I am now recommending the magnavox either but it is true and a really sad example of the fact that all these boxes are so imperfect in so many different ways.

seatacboy

03-26-08, 10:30 AM

satpro commented I can't believe I am now recommending the Magnavox .... but.... all these boxes are so imperfect in so many different ways Good point. The Zenith seems a bit better constructed than either the RCA or the Magnavox, but each of the CECBs on the market has significant shortcomings.

dmulvany

03-26-08, 03:53 PM

dmulvany, my apologies that my post has inconvenienced you.

In the future, I will no longer provide any information of an item unless I have completed a thorough product review to present every feature that that product has.

It's not unusual for people to ask more questions about a review; those questions should not be taken as a slight.

My posting had not indicated that your posting had inconvenienced anyone. Rather, I had pointed out some reasons why you yourself might be interested in checking out the digital closed captioning features and why there was a need for more information about these features.

Many people with moderate, severe or profound hearing loss need to know how well the CECBs are handling captioning issues, but it's not possible to get this information without in-depth evaluations of the CECBs. Ten percent of the population has hearing loss, and many non-native speakers of English use captioning, so there's a lot of people who need this information.

Nevertheless, it stands to reason that most people simply won't want to take the time to conduct a systematic evaluation of a CECB's advanced closed captioning features. For those who have sufficient motivation to help out, because they know someone with a hearing loss or have a hearing loss themselves, there's a thread set up for those evaluations at:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022

We still are lacking systematic evaluations there on how most of the CECBs are handling the digital closed captioning, including the RCA DTA800.

Dana

seatacboy

03-27-08, 08:23 AM

Why can't somebody actually publish test results measuring actual performance specifications? What ever happened to the testing methodology pioneered by the late Julian Hirsch (of Hirsch-Houck Labs, best known for hundreds of electronic tests published in Stereo Review from the 1950s into the 1990s)?

wristpad2

03-29-08, 09:03 PM

I was planning on buying another Magnavox converter box and went to Walmart with my second coupon. They had sold out of Magnavoxes and all they had were the RCA DTA800. I decided to buy it and try it out.

It was not that bad. The PQ is in par with the Magnavox (I'm using a Sony Trinitron CRT monitor... with an analog to VGA converter box). The menu system was very simple... perfect for my two small kids to use. The remote was really great. I decided it was a keeper and connected it to my 27" RCA TV. I really like the "input" button which switches from channel 3 to my S-video and RCA inputs for the TV.

There are two things that I have issues with this box though. First of all, one needs a powered antenna. I live about three miles from the transmitter towers yet the best I could get was 53% signal strength. If I got too close to the rabbit ear antennas, the image would break up and lock. My Magnavox works perfect with the simple antennas (actually I got poorer results using a powered antenna with the Magnavox).

The second thing that bothered me is there are only two screen size options. One is the letter box (RCA calls it widescreen) which leaves black bands top and bottom and the pan &scan which chops out the sides to make it fill the whole screen. There is no squeezed 16x9 option that other brands offer. Because of this, this box will be in the gameroom for my kids to use. I connected the Magnavox to my DVD recorder. If I know a show will be 16x9 (using the Magnavox), I record it with the widescreen squeezed option. That way it can be seen truely widescreen in a widescreen TV or transferred to a PC and using the program "Ifoedit", set the 16x9, letterbox, and pan&scan options and re-burned to a new disc.

ttinLV

03-30-08, 07:14 AM

It's not unusual for people to ask more questions about a review; those questions should not be taken as a slight.

My posting had not indicated that your posting had inconvenienced anyone. Rather, I had pointed out some reasons why you yourself might be interested in checking out the digital closed captioning features and why there was a need for more information about these features.

Many people with moderate, severe or profound hearing loss need to know how well the CECBs are handling captioning issues, but it's not possible to get this information without in-depth evaluations of the CECBs. Ten percent of the population has hearing loss, and many non-native speakers of English use captioning, so there's a lot of people who need this information.

Nevertheless, it stands to reason that most people simply won't want to take the time to conduct a systematic evaluation of a CECB's advanced closed captioning features. For those who have sufficient motivation to help out, because they know someone with a hearing loss or have a hearing loss themselves, there's a thread set up for those evaluations at:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022

We still are lacking systematic evaluations there on how most of the CECBs are handling the digital closed captioning, including the RCA DTA800.

Dana

I didn't provide a review.

Some questions were asked, and I TRIED to help out with answers to those questions and qualified the answer to the one question I didn't have an answer for.

Time to move on, and actually read what is posted.

wristpad2

03-30-08, 08:03 AM

One more thing about the RCA vs the Magnavox CEBC. The RCA changes channels just as fast as an regular TV. The Magnavox takes a few seconds for each channel to change.

bdfox18doe

03-30-08, 09:47 AM

Time to move on, and actually read what is posted.

What a novel concept.

sivartk

03-30-08, 10:31 AM

First of all, one needs a powered antenna. I live about three miles from the transmitter towers yet the best I could get was 53% signal strength.

Hmmm...haven't noticed that with mine. I have it hooked up to an outdoor antenna which is hung on a wall in the closet. I get all the locals (~18 miles from towers) without a problem (100% of the time) and even some non-locals (~60 miles from the towers) with no break-ups 95% of the time.

It works just as well as my old LG HDTV tuner I had hooked up to it with the same antenna in the same position.

wristpad2

03-31-08, 07:15 AM

Hmmm...haven't noticed that with mine. I have it hooked up to an outdoor antenna which is hung on a wall in the closet. I get all the locals (~18 miles from towers) without a problem (100% of the time) and even some non-locals (~60 miles from the towers) with no break-ups 95% of the time.

It works just as well as my old LG HDTV tuner I had hooked up to it with the same antenna in the same position.

Your good reception might be the outdoor antenna. I connected mine to a rabbit ears antenna atop my TV.

PinkSplice

04-08-08, 03:38 AM

One month, and the RCA is still working. I now have an Insignia/LG box for comparison, and the RCA is slightly inferior in performance, and is definitely inferior in features available. Both the RCA and Insignia have an audio signal tone, but the Insignia's signal strength function is directly accessible fron the remote. The RCA's requires at least two menu steps to reach, and that is after a scan has acquired signal. Channel add, and direct RF channel tuning/selection are also available with the Insignia. The RCA has a percentage signal meter, while the Insignia has a bar, divided into thirds.

Sorry guys, nor service monitors/spectrum analyzers for $50.

The RCA is definitely aimed for a dirt simple setup in an urban environment (hence, the smart antenna port). The remote is superior for sight-impaired users. The OSD is in very large type, and is very suitable for sight-impaired users. The only feature lacking, aside from direct RF channel selection, is S-Video (also missing from the Insignia. Damn).

My local Wal-Mart is dumping the Magnavox's, and stocking the RCA's like crazy.

The RCA would seem to be the best selection for the low end of the CECB market, particularly for the elderly/sight-impaired. If you are a DX'er, like me, the Insignia/Zenith seems to be the best available box to appear prior to my coupon expiration in June. My regular DTV sets meet my HD needs just fine.

seatacboy

04-08-08, 06:58 AM

The RCA has a percentage signal meter, while the Insignia has a bar, divided into thirds.

The Insignia/Zenith signal strength bar doesn't show percentages, but does show relative fluctuation levels within the three division areas. I did like the RCA's signal meter better than the Insignia/Zenith.

The RCA is definitely aimed for a dirt simple setup in an urban environment (hence, the smart antenna port). The remote is superior for sight-impaired users. The OSD is in very large type, and is very suitable for sight-impaired users..... The RCA would seem to be the best selection for the low end of the CECB market, particularly for the elderly/sight-impaired.

Strongly agree. IMHO Insignia/Zenith should consider offering an aftermarket "Big Button" replacement remote with similar ergonomics to the RCA.

dmulvany

04-09-08, 03:36 AM

The remote is superior for sight-impaired users. The OSD is in very large type, and is very suitable for sight-impaired users.

<snip>

The RCA would seem to be the best selection for the low end of the CECB market, particularly for the elderly/sight-impaired.

Many elderly people have significant hearing loss (and hearing loss tends to start up in the high frequencies for males when they're in their 40s). Unfortunately, the RCA might not be a good choice for people with hearing loss, depending on how important the advanced closed captioning features are for them.

I got an email from one person who spent about 30 minutes with the RCA stating that the digital captions for the RCA-DTA800B all looked very thin and difficult to read, even when on the large setting. There also is no CC button on the remote. (The email writer had trouble figuring out how to post this information to the AVS Forum, however.)

Blind people would need to feel raised dots on the remote control for the 5 button (to orient themselves to the channel numbers) and on the power button, and to have an audio/SAP button on the remote to turn on descriptive video services. Are those features available?

Since many elderly people have both hearing loss and vision loss, they might find the RCA very unsuitable for them if they were hoping to get large, legible advanced captioning features from this box.

I myself haven't seen the RCA in action but thought I should put out a warning that this CECB might not be a sure fire choice for elderly people (or anyone else) who need to get large, easy to read captioning from their CECB (particularly if the appearance of the captioning provided by their analog TVs isn't very good).

If anyone would be willing to evaluate the RCA for users of captioning, I've set up up a thread with a suggested process for evaluating various caption-related features at:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022

Dana

Replay3030Owner

04-09-08, 10:47 AM

If anyone here has this box and wants to control it automatically with a ReplayTV, here's the info I just posted over in the ReplayTV forum:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13596501#post13596501

Replay3030Owner

04-09-08, 10:53 AM

Here’s my review after no more than 40 mins of use last night.

Wal-mart had a stack of about 15 RCA’s and 1 open box Magnavox. After researching for 2 months, I knew I didn’t want the Magnavox due to: DOA units, no air holes causing overheating and quick death, the worst quality tuner and doesn’t pick up as much as others and breaks up often when it does have a signal. It’s also a larger unit, the remote has tiny crappy “Funai” style remote with tiny buttons, and no universal TV control from its’ remote.

I went with the RCA because of what’s out there it has the least amount of problems, but still has some problems, and some limited features compared to others, but overall it’s the best you can do until the next wave of boxes ship for a bit more money. Cost was $49.87 + tax - $40 coupon = ~$12.86 net cost. Cashier knew exactly how to handle the coupon card as a debit card, so that worked well. My cards expire May 23 so I used one now since we’re having lots of new interference problems with VHF 4 and UHF 15. Will hope a better box appears by the end of May with the other card.

Pluses:
+ Box is smaller than the Magnavox and has a built in swivel piece to set it vertical instead of horizontal. Size is about a VHS tape.
+ Includes power transformer in it, no big block yet was able to keep box quite small.
+ Built in vent holes.
+ Nice on screen graphics
+ Nice Now/Next program guide
+ Fast autoscan of DTV signals. About twice as fast as my Panasonic Plasma AND my 15” Insignia LCD TV
+ VERY fast channel changes, even at 38 to 60% signal strength. A bit faster than the Panasonic Plasma, a lot faster than the 15” Insignia LCD
+ No left channel audio problems that plague the LG units like the Zenith/Insignia/Digistream boxes (that are unfortunately better otherwise)
+ Universal remote—can control TV
+ Shows current signal strength as bars every time you change the channel
+ Menu based signal meter has a sound beep that changes pitch as it goes higher (great to tweak an antenna when you can’t see the picture)
+ Signal meter shows % as well as a long bar in setup menu
+ Was able to get my ReplayTV to IR blast the box to change its’ channels automatically so I don’t need the RCA remote! (See previous post for links)
+ Picture was excellent.
+ Can switch between 4:3 center box or 16:9 letter box (see negative below on this)

Neutral:
~ Large button remote. Great for grandparents, but there should be a happy medium between a Funai baby button and a thumb sized button!
~ Shell shows spot for S-video port in plastic molding. May crack open and see if all it needs is a port added to enable it.

Negative:
- I lost audio after having PBS breakup. Switching to other stations still left no audio. Had to reboot (power off and back on) the box. Sad it’s come to this!
- Program guide bits on top scan line on one channel that didn't fill screen. (Local Fox affiliate when set to widscreen output)
- Initial connections caused buzzing on TV (8 year old Panasonic 32” CRT) when computer graphic menus were on. Switched cords and got rid of most. Didn’t disappear until I fed it through the replay
- Chroma dot crawl on hard color contrast edges (like graphics) since it only has RF and Composite output (no svideo)
- Kinda dim menus
- Signal meter must be accessed through setup menu and you can’t change the channel with it on to tweak for another station, must click through menus to reactivate
- No RCA cables included just a cheap RG-59 coax.
- Even after turning off the auto-power off, when I got up this morning it was in sleep mode, so the Replay wouldn’t be able to change the channel if I had something recorded. Will have to check more as to why this happened.
- Sound level a lot lower than the TV’s regular volume on RF, or from the Replay through another line input.
- No button on the remote to switch the aspect ratio with 1 click. You have to navigate menus to do it. Sucks that any 4:3 image now is a 25” square in the center of my 32” CRT if I have it set to 16:9 letterbox mode. Likewise if a wide screen program is broadcast (Leno) and I have the box set to 4:3, then it’s clipping off the left and right sides when I’d rather it be in letterbox. Multiple clicks to change it and you may need to change it for every channel change/ show change.

Will post more as I get more time to test it out.

seatacboy

04-09-08, 10:59 AM

Blind people would need to feel raised dots on the remote control for the 5 button (to orient themselves to the channel numbers) and on the power button, and to have an audio/SAP button on the remote to turn on descriptive video services. Dana, you raised a sensitive point: CECBs like the RCA aren't tailored for the needs of legally blind individuals who "watch" TV via descriptive video. The RCA box is reasonably user-friendly to the millions of adults with typical age-related visual impairment, but not those living with true blindness.

How will the news, information and entertainment needs of "legally blind" adults - those whose experience with television is primarily aural rather than visual - be served in the age of ATSC digital television?

bdfox18doe

04-09-08, 01:06 PM

How will the news, information and entertainment needs of "legally blind" adults - those whose experience with television is primarily aural rather than visual - be served in the age of ATSC digital television?

There's a bit of debate over that. If you read the FCC rules on SAP, it makes
no distinction between analog and digital. Some say the rules don't apply.I disagree.
It will be interesting to see come 2/09 what sort of effect this has, as few DTV stations pass SAP nor have the capability to do so.
The ones I handle do.

dmulvany

04-09-08, 01:44 PM

Here’s my review after no more than 40 mins of use last night.

Very useful, detailed information in your review, which is amazing after the limited time you spent using it. Thanks for putting so much thought into it.

If the audio conks out when you're recording something unattended, you'll end up having to use the analog closed captioning! :eek:

Maybe you could return this box for a later version before the end of Walmart's 90 day trial period in hopes that the box's audio problems have been fixed. (It's too bad that you used your coupon already as you might have been better off getting another CECB before the coupon expired. So far, I think the Philco CECB is the only one not reported to have problems for mainstream users.)

dattier

04-09-08, 06:56 PM

Where can the DTA800's manual be downloaded? My attempts to search the web and rca.com came up dry.

Thanks.

degarb

04-09-08, 10:02 PM

Picked up an 800B model I have not found a way to add non automatically scanned channels and it appears to refuse to take a direct UHF channel input that isn't already in the scanned list

I don't get it, if a box can't add stations to a list, it seems as useless as a box that doesn't get all the stations. This is DTV, directional, thus in theory, you should never get all stations with one antenna setting.

I would take the box back, and complain.

Am I missing something unsaid, and there is a way to add stations? Or are they just stupid?

PinkSplice

04-10-08, 01:16 AM

Dana, you raised a sensitive point: CECBs like the RCA aren't tailored for the needs of legally blind individuals who "watch" TV via descriptive video. The RCA box is reasonably user-friendly to the millions of adults with typical age-related visual impairment, but not those living with true blindness.

How will the news, information and entertainment needs of "legally blind" adults - those whose experience with television is primarily aural rather than visual - be served in the age of ATSC digital television?

Many elderly people have significant hearing loss (and hearing loss tends to start up in the high frequencies for males when they're in their 40s). Unfortunately, the RCA might not be a good choice for people with hearing loss, depending on how important the advanced closed captioning features are for them.

I got an email from one person who spent about 30 minutes with the RCA stating that the digital captions for the RCA-DTA800B all looked very thin and difficult to read, even when on the large setting. There also is no CC button on the remote. (The email writer had trouble figuring out how to post this information to the AVS Forum, however.)

Blind people would need to feel raised dots on the remote control for the 5 button (to orient themselves to the channel numbers) and on the power button, and to have an audio/SAP button on the remote to turn on descriptive video services. Are those features available?

Since many elderly people have both hearing loss and vision loss, they might find the RCA very unsuitable for them if they were hoping to get large, legible advanced captioning features from this box.

I myself haven't seen the RCA in action but thought I should put out a warning that this CECB might not be a sure fire choice for elderly people (or anyone else) who need to get large, easy to read captioning from their CECB (particularly if the appearance of the captioning provided by their analog TVs isn't very good).

If anyone would be willing to evaluate the RCA for users of captioning, I've set up up a thread with a suggested process for evaluating various caption-related features at:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022

Dana

You made me go and get the remote from the basement TV :)

There IS a raised dot on the "5" button.

There IS a raised dot on the CECB power button (but not on the TV power button).

There IS a CC button (it's the "dash" button) on the very lower right of the remote:

123
456
789
pgm 0 - (CC)

Hitting the CC button toggles through the various CC services. Cap size was pretty large on my 27" CRT, I'd guess about an inch and a half to two inches.

SAP is enabled from the Audio menu. Once enabled, the SAP services can be toggled through using the OK button.

Damn. I really suck for actually testing for requested information. :)

PinkSplice

04-10-08, 01:43 AM

Rammitinski

04-10-08, 01:51 AM

The next step up is the Zenith/Insignia (which I also have). Lack of S-Video is it's only fault.For you, at least. :(

dmulvany

04-10-08, 02:26 AM

You made me go and get the remote from the basement TV :)

There IS a raised dot on the "5" button.

There IS a raised dot on the CECB power button (but not on the TV power button).

There IS a CC button (it's the "dash" button) on the very lower right of the remote:

123
456
789
pgm 0 - (CC)

Hitting the CC button toggles through the various CC services. Cap size was pretty large on my 27" CRT, I'd guess about an inch and a half to two inches.

SAP is enabled from the Audio menu. Once enabled, the SAP services can be toggled through using the OK button.

Damn. I really suck for actually testing for requested information. :)

Thanks, Pink Splice!

Sounds like the caption size might be okay (there are different sizes available), but the other person said all the caption fonts were very difficult to read it because the font was too thin. What did you think of the legibility of the captions?

Thanks for reporting on the accessibility of the remote control. Not all remote controls are blind-friendly---the DigitalStream DTX9900 remote control doesn't have any raised dots at all. Blind and low-vision people are going to lose a lot of access to television, unfortunately. Currently they can use radio stations to listen to analog TV, but they won't be able to do that after full-powered analog broadcasts are cut off.

So far, it looks like most remote controls have an audio button, but they use small text indicators on the bottom of the screen to show the language without any audio signal, as far as I can tell. Perhaps a blind person could just hook up a CECB box to a stereo system without needing to have a TV for it, and eventually memorize how to operate it through touch and memory alone. (The remote would need to be consistent and easy to use, though, treating a single press of the button as ONE press instead of one, two or three like the DigitalStream's hypersensitive remote does.)

BTW, there is no federal funding to help organizations for blind people or people with other disabilities (like arthritis or hearing loss) find CECBs that will work for people with their disability. The CECBs aren't required to have SAP buttons or to be accessible to blind people, and it would be a big problem for blind people if the user manuals aren't made available online in a format that can be read by text-to-speech screenreaders (even though it would be pretty easy for the manufacturers to put up a pdf copy of the user manual online). BTW, well-documented user manuals can help blind people navigate the CECB since the online information is inaccessible to them.

So despite requests, that means there's no formal guidance by the federal government for people with disabilities about what CECBs will be accessible for them, even though the CECBs were mandated by the federal government and are subsidized by the federal government. Blind people have it particularly tough, I think.

Again, it would be appreciated if people could post their observations about accessibility features at the thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022) that I set up on "Evaluating Digital to Analog Converter Boxes for Users of Captioning" so that all of the evaluations can be found in one central thread. One of the questions I've listed there pertains to the accessibility of the remote control, but I may modify that to ask if there's an online user manual and whether there are any other notable accessibility features or problems for the CECB.

Dana

Replay3030Owner

04-11-08, 12:49 PM

Well last night my new box suffered from lost audio two more times after LOS (loss of signal). I had to reboot it by powering down and back up, simply changing the station did not reactivate audio.

My opinion of the RCA is going down due to this bug :(

loutouchette

04-11-08, 03:39 PM

seatacboy

04-11-08, 05:15 PM

dmulvany

04-11-08, 05:32 PM

Upon closer examination of both the RCA DTA800B remote control and the literature, there is actually a CC button disguised as a dash. I suggested that the folks return the box to Wal*Mart and exchange it for a Magnavox. However, it seems their Wal*Mart store only carries the RCA. I have a copy of the page that shows a picture of the remote control and wanted to paste it here. Unfortunately, it won't paste. I'm not a computer Guru so don't know all the tricks for doing stuff like this. The page has other useful info on Closed Captioning of the RCA DTA800B so if you can advise me, I'd be happy to submit it.
Lou

Lou, since you're a new member who has posted only once on the AVS Forum, this bulletin board automatically won't let you attach any files for a while (until you've posted about 5 or 6 postings).

I've uploaded the pdf file showing the captioning menu that you had wanted to upload (and which you had sent me earlier today). However, let me suggest that in generally, really detailed information about captioning would be better located on the thread called, "Evaluating Digital to Analog Converter Boxes for Users of Captioning (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022)," since everybody on that thread will be interested in the captioning. A link to a substantial posting about the captions for a particular box could still be placed in the thread of general evaluations for the box.

It's desirable to have the evaluations of captioning from the different converter boxes in one central thread rather than having different observations being scattered all over the place. (I've written up a list of evaluation questions about the captioning on the other thread.) That way, people really interested in captioning can get the information they need by going to one thread focused on captioning instead of looking for captioning information in 50+ different threads. (And I myself will run out of time to look for captioning evaluations if they're scattered all over the place in heavily trafficked threads.)

So, Lou, could you please go ahead and post your observations about the RCA's captioning over at the otheer thread, where other people interested in captioning will be able to review them? (I would suggest writing your evaluation off-line first, and then pasting it into a new posting.) If and when you do that, you or I can create a link here to the posting from you so that people here can find out about and read that posting if they're interested in the captioning features.

Dana
(creator of thread on "Evaluating Digital to Analog Converter Boxes for Users of Captioning (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=997022)")

KCC07

04-11-08, 08:37 PM

I had the same experience. It was THE primary reason I returned the DTA800B to Wal*Mart.
A quick fix without having to turn the box off is to enter the main menu and then exit and then the sound should return.

Replay3030Owner

04-11-08, 08:54 PM

Problem is that no matter what, if it's lost audio before my PVR uses the box to record something unattended, I get a useless recording.

I can't believe this crap passes the governments' testing let alone the companies own testing?

3 instances in 2 days of ownership :(

satpro

04-11-08, 10:00 PM

replay3030,

what model box do you have -A or -B ?

Also what kind of antenna indoor, attic, or outdoor? I have not had this happen on mine yet.

Replay3030Owner

04-11-08, 11:48 PM

I have the B box. I have a simple bowtie antenna up against the wall of my house that faces the towers 35 miles away.

I have the exact same set up in my bedroom with a 42" Panasonic plasma. The Panasonic gets 95 to 100% signal strength on 4 of my 5 frequencies, and 80% on the other. The RCA CECB in the other room now gets 35% on the weakest, 55% or so on the strongest.

Therefore moving in the room can reflect signals and cause the RCA to breakup, and we're in a flightpath 2 blocks from here so when a plane goes over, the RCA will flake out with a long pause and a message about no signal sometimes), while the Panasonic will at most freeze for a portion of a second, then continue.

Yes, I realize it's not the same physical antenna but it is the identical type of antenna and position WRT to the same wall and tower direction, but the signal strength difference between the tuner on the Panasonic and the RCA is very significant, but at least the Panasonic doesn't ever decide to just not continue with audio when it picks up the signal again.

Soon I plan on moving the antenna into the attic/getting a better one to feed to everything, but wanted to do the initial testing this way.

I guess I should use my other coupon for the Zenith/Insignia since it only has a bad audio sound sometimes, but has a much better tuner sensitivity from what I read and won't just stop broadcasting audio.

To repro it on yours, I bet if you play with blocking the antenna causing the video to freeze you could get it to occur.

satpro

04-12-08, 01:45 AM

Are your digitals transmitting on uhf or vhf or both? I know you mentioned their remapped virtual locations but what freq ch are they sent on?
Is the audio loss happening only on vhf or both?
Do you notice the drop occurs after you turn on / off a light switch, cieling fan, or air condition/heat? Can doing any of these recreate the audio loss?

xantier

04-12-08, 10:10 AM

I got my RCA box yesterday and hooked it up without much difficulty. But I can't seem to get my dvd recorder to scan in the new channels. That means I can only record the channel I'm watching to my dvd recorder. I can't record one channel while watching a different channel.

Also, I can't program the timer recorder to record different channels at different times without manually switching the channels. That defeats the purpose of a timer recorder since I use that when I'm out for a long time. Does anyone have suggestions on what to do?

Rammitinski

04-12-08, 04:48 PM

Does anyone have suggestions on what to do?What model of DVD recorder do you have? If it's an older model or a newer LG with an IR blaster, it may contain a code that will allow the blaster to change the channels on the box (I believe the RCA tuner can be controlled by an RCA satellite tuner code).

Replay3030Owner

04-12-08, 11:48 PM

All of my digitals are on UHF .. Channel 19 through 44 range.

I have only pinpointed it to happening on two of the 5 so far, and when I was just walking around on the rear side of the antenna causing signal bounce back to it.

I will try to do a more detailed reproducable test. Though IIRC, 2 others have posted in this or another thread (the ATSC comparison one?) that they had audio drops requiring reboot on this box as well, so I doubt it's just 1 bad box.

seatacboy

04-13-08, 01:20 AM

jtbell

04-13-08, 02:46 AM

I got my RCA box yesterday and hooked it up without much difficulty. But I can't seem to get my dvd recorder to scan in the new channels. That means I can only record the channel I'm watching to my dvd recorder. I can't record one channel while watching a different channel.

If neither your TV nor your recorder has a digital tuner, and you want to record one digital channel while watching another one, then you need to use two converter boxes. Each converter box can tune only one channel at a time.

If you get a second converter box, you probably ought to get a different brand, so you can control each box with its own remote, without conflicts.

zhenerale

04-15-08, 01:29 PM

Available here online for $7.99 after coupon & S&H: http://dtv.bsat.net/pc-18-2-rca-dta800-ntia-certified-convertor-box.aspx (not sure which extension model).

xantier

04-16-08, 09:25 AM

It's an Insignia about a year plus old.

What model of DVD recorder do you have? If it's an older model or a newer LG with an IR blaster, it may contain a code that will allow the blaster to change the channels on the box (I believe the RCA tuner can be controlled by an RCA satellite tuner code).

xantier

04-16-08, 09:26 AM

Interesting solution. I will have to look into it.

If neither your TV nor your recorder has a digital tuner, and you want to record one digital channel while watching another one, then you need to use two converter boxes. Each converter box can tune only one channel at a time.

If you get a second converter box, you probably ought to get a different brand, so you can control each box with its own remote, without conflicts.

xantier

04-16-08, 09:29 AM

Ok, so I've had the RCA converter for a few days. I've been losing signal on a few (same) channels daily and yesterday when it was windy, the signal on other channels were quite bad. I suppose it's just a matter of a bad antenna? I have the rabbbit ears kind. Any suggestions on preventing that from happening? What's a good indoor antenna to go with the RCA converter?
Thanks!

Replay3030Owner

04-16-08, 09:59 AM

Available here online for $7.99 after coupon & S&H: http://dtv.bsat.net/pc-18-2-rca-dta800-ntia-certified-convertor-box.aspx (not sure which extension model).

It's $7.99 before shipping, shipping adds another ~$8 onto it = $16 total.

You can get these at any wal-mart for $13 including tax after applying the coupon.

zhenerale

04-16-08, 10:28 AM

It's $7.99 before shipping, shipping adds another ~$8 onto it = $16 total.

You can get these at any wal-mart for $13 including tax after applying the coupon.

Yes it is cheaper not having to pay S&H (which may vary depending on distance to seller), but not all Walmarts have the RCA unit or for $3, not to have to travel out to Walmart (gas $) if it is far away.

obsoperator

04-24-08, 08:45 PM

Although I've read a lot of AVS DTV posts about OTA antennas, signal strength and poor splitter electronics, I haven't been able to find a post about terminating an unused RF output on the box. (I'm using an RCA DTA800B.) If this converter box were an analog monitor with passthrough, I would see immediately that the picture was better with a terminator.

Does this apply to digital TV signals, or to "poor" passthrough electronics? Unfortunately, the RCA DTA800B on-screen signal strength meter may not help me evaluate this, because my interest is in the signal sent to my flatscreen TV! Thanks in advance.

tvtommy

05-01-08, 09:26 AM

I just fired up my box last night.

Judging the book by it's cover:
So-so. I have a Toshiba TV, 13", built in VCR in my bedroom. Out of the box I finally found the right remote code (there are about a dozen for Toshibas). Now I can use the input button to find the setup screen. Scan for channels, find 23 usable. I use this RCA "snail" antenna (bunny ears) right on top of the TV and the signal strength is around 45-50% most of the time. I am getting some break-up but usually not enough to bother me as the set will be used for news and an occasional sports update. I don't care for the remote, not that it's confusing, just seems kinda lame. The menus are ok for navigation but it would be kind of nice if you could see the picture behind it. When it comes in the picture is as good as watching a DVD on that tv. But it is only 13". To quote Yoda "size matters not".

All in all for about $12.00 I'm not going to complain. And I suspect the antenna may not be working right. Some time I might try a new one.

CasualOTAer

05-01-08, 11:03 AM

I just fired up my box last night.

I use this RCA "snail" antenna (bunny ears) right on top of the TV and the signal strength is around 45-50% most of the time. I am getting some break-up but usually not enough to bother me as the set will be used for news and an occasional sports update.

I recommend that you experiment moving your rabbit ears around a bit. Take the antenna off the TV and see if there's a spot within its cable range that gives a consistently higher signal strength.

I've been surprised by how small changes in location and orientation of an indoor antenna can make big differences in signal strength. It sounds as if you are already close to "good enough". A little turning, sliding, or tilting may push you into the no problems range.

Also, when fully extended, the rabbit ears (VHF dipole) on your antenna are at
the best length for lower VHF use. If your digital stations are all on UHF, or UHF plus upper VHF, try telescoping them back in somewhat and see if the signal strength gets better or not.

For strictly UHF, it might work better with them collapsed in most of the way.
But test it out for yourself and see what really works best in your setup.

bdfox18doe

05-01-08, 01:34 PM

All in all for about $12.00 I'm not going to complain. .

Why not? Everyone else seems to! :) YIC

johnpost

05-01-08, 02:54 PM

If your digital stations are all on UHF, or UHF plus upper VHF, try telescoping them back in somewhat and see if the signal strength gets better or not.

For strictly UHF, it might work better with them collapsed in most of the way.
But test it out for yourself and see what really works best in your setup.

For both UHF and VHF using the rabbit ears at the right distance for the VHF and a bow tie for UHF through a UHF/VHF combiner is better. The bow tie gives better performance and is easier to position.

For only UHF like you said the rabbit ears have to be collapsed. Though a bow tie works better and the rabbit ears make a good mast for it, lots of freedom of movement for aiming.

tvtommy

05-01-08, 03:04 PM

Actually I spent about 20 minutes fiddling around with placement/adjustments. I guess "good enough" is quite right, I will at some time go get another antenna. I'm not going to go through the pain of crawling up in my attic and stringing a wire etc. etc. I'm in a surburban Minneapolis area so it shouldn't be out of the question to get good reception with an indoor antenna. Any recommendations? Is a powered one really that much better?

Vitebsk66

05-03-08, 02:50 PM

I have a Toshiba TV, 13", built in VCR in my bedroom. Out of the box I finally found the right remote code (there are about a dozen for Toshibas).

TVTommy, I have a similar Toshiba 13" TV/VCR combo (model MV13J3), but have been unable to find a remote code that will work for it (I tried every Toshiba code listed in the docs, plus others I found online). Which code are you using?

jeneie

05-03-08, 08:54 PM

I appreciate any help you can give to me with this problem. I am new to this forum.

The DTA800B goes to sleep, turns from green to yellow. When I turn the TV on and then push the box button on the remote - the yellow light goes out and no light appears. The TV will not work without the green light showing the box is turned on.

Prior to this problem I had a beautiful picture on my Toshiba TV and excellent sound. This box is less than a week old.

All I can find in the manual is to unplug from socket to reset the box. I have done this 100 times and left it unplugged for 24 hours but still the same problem. Also the manual said to check the Power SAVER that is set to go to sleep after 4 hours. I cannot get back into the menu on this TV to change the setting so it will never go to sleep and stay green all the time. But, I suggest if I had done this in the beginning I would perhaps not have this problem now.

I have another DTA800B connected on another TV and have not had this problem. But, I did go into the menu and click to keep the power from sleeping. I am afraid this box will do the same as the one I have the problem with. I do not understand why the manual does not address more troubleshooting and the website listed in the manual has given no response to my email.

Has anyone else had this problem and solved it? Thanks in advance!

satpro

05-03-08, 09:59 PM

All I can find in the manual is to unplug from socket to reset the box. I have done this 100 times and left it unplugged for 24 hours but still the same problem. Also the manual said to check the Power SAVER that is set to go to sleep after 4 hours. I cannot get back into the menu on this TV to change the setting so it will never go to sleep and stay green all the time. But, I suggest if I had done this in the beginning I would perhaps not have this problem now.

Has anyone else solved it?

To turn off power saver, try this with the remote, press the following sequence: Menu 5 3 4 (then use, menu menu, to back out)

To do a factorty restore, it is Menu 5 5 (pin = 0000 or 3308)

jeneie

05-04-08, 10:55 AM

To turn off power saver, try this with the remote, press the following sequence: Menu 5 3 4 (then use, menu menu, to back out)

To do a factorty restore, it is Menu 5 5 (pin = 0000 or 3308)

Thanks, I tried both of your suggestions and could still not get the light on the box to turn from yellow to green. Still, when I push the remote box button to turn it on the box goes completely blank - no yellow or green light. I disconnect the power cord and plug back in and get the yellow light but same problem.

How can I get the green light to turn on? Thanks.

MikeBiker

05-04-08, 11:06 AM

The box is dead. Return it to where you got it and get a replacement.

osofast35801

05-06-08, 08:58 AM

Just so you guys know, The Zenith DTT901 will have analog pass through.

Matt

spokybob

05-06-08, 09:54 AM

Just so you guys know, The Zenith DTT901 will have analog pass through.

MattI did not think I would need analog pass through, but in my antenna experiments, I can get a strong dx ch15 that has a very weak digital signal. I would like to watch some Cards & later, Rams games on that channel.
I might try the Zenith, although I really like my RCA. zip 61231

Malouff

05-09-08, 05:51 PM

HDTVexpert has a new review May 9, 2008
RCA DTA800 and Channel Master CM7000 Digital TV Converters (http://www.hdtvexpert.com/pages_c/2TV_Converters.html)

Rogee

05-09-08, 11:44 PM

According to this review, "the DTA800 would be distributed west of the Mississippi, while the troublesome Magnavox TB100MW9 would be stocked in the eastern USA."

hdtvexpert . com / pages_c / 2TV_Converters . html
(sorry, can't post URLs yet)

To everyone who has this box: Is the above statement true?

I can't find it at any of the Walmarts in Milwaukee, yet my buddy was easily able to find it in St. Louis. Is there anywhere else that I can buy the RCA?

DrBri99

05-10-08, 11:27 AM

I've checked Walwarts in Waynesboro and Charlottesville, Virginia and niether carries the RCA.

beachbum_50

05-10-08, 01:55 PM

Rogee

05-10-08, 01:57 PM

Thanks for the the info... the statement seems to hold true so far.

spokybob

05-10-08, 04:15 PM

Thanks for the the info... the statement seems to hold true so far.Aledo IL W-M out of Magnavox. Muscatine IA is out of RCA boxes per telcon yesterday. The employees know nothing more than that.

lexus2108

05-11-08, 06:50 PM

1) Is there any other place besides Walmart to buy this box? Here on the east coast. I can not find one in Walmart stores

thanks

I found the Manual PDf online

Question.

2) If you do not have a smart Antenna. Can you do a Full Scan for channels and not just a quick scan? Or do you have to have a Smart antenna for this Full scan option?

3) The EPG on this box does it show more then what is playing next? Like the Magnavox that shows you 4 to 5 hours ahead. Or is it just Next show?

satpro

05-11-08, 10:46 PM

online dtv.bsat.net and a few other authorized online sellers have them.

lexus2108

05-11-08, 11:00 PM

online bsat and a few other authorized online sellers have them.

names? links?

satpro

05-11-08, 11:16 PM

dtv.bsat.net

www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx

Got mine off fleabay for cheap since I didn't have a coupon.

lexus2108

05-11-08, 11:23 PM

dtv.bsat.net

www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx

Got mine off fleabay for cheap since I didn't have a coupon.

I know about BSAT but I haven't found anyone else, but Walmart who does not sell them near me.

Anyone else online besides BSAT?

That list you provided is not RCA specific

satpro

05-12-08, 12:17 AM

freedtvshop.com also sells them.

I have not ordered from them, I have ordered from BSAT and while they took awhile I did get my boxes in 2 separate shipments.

lexus2108

05-12-08, 12:50 AM

freedtvshop.com also sells them.

I have not ordered from them, I have ordered from BSAT and while they took awhile I did get my boxes in 2 separate shipments.

How long did BSaT take and how much was shipping?

FREEDTvshop says back order and is more expensive at $27
BSaT says $50 minus coupon = $10. Correct?

Malouff

05-12-08, 03:05 AM

I found the Manual PDf onlineCan you share a link to the Manual for others?

lexus2108

05-12-08, 03:15 AM

Can you share a link to the Manual for others?

I hope you guys are kind enough to answer my questions above too:D

Here is link

http://www.freedtvshop.com/fdtv/converters/dta800bUM.pdf

Dont forget to thank John for posting it;)

Malouff

05-12-08, 04:08 AM

Malouff

05-12-08, 04:17 AM

Looking at the User Manual I found it odd that it said to set the Converter Box and VCR to different channels one 3 and the other 4.

How is the signal suppose to pass thru the VCR if they are on different channels? :confused:

I am thinking they were suppose to tell you to set both switches on the back of both boxes to the same channel.

Also the screenshot for the Channel Scan said
"You may have to re-adjust the antenna and retry the scan to capture all available channels"

I thought each scan wiped out the list of channels how can you get all available channels if this happens?

SirVette

05-12-08, 06:48 AM

Looking at the User Manual I found it odd that it said to set the Converter Box and VCR to different channels one 3 and the other 4.

How is the signal suppose to pass thru the VCR if they are on different channels? :confused:

Malouff
Think of it like this.
When a VCR is set to Ch. 3 it effectively becomes Ch. 3 on your TV.
I have 2 VCRs one is set to Ch. 3 & the other to Ch.4.
To monitor one of the VCRs the TV is set to that VCR's Ch.
To record from VCR Ch.3 to VCR Ch.4, VCR Ch.4 is set (i.e. tuned) to Ch.3.

In this case VCR Ch.3 could be replaced w/ a tuner/converter (CECB) set to Ch.3. So when another tuner (CECB) is added to a VCR & TV the tuner would be set to the other Ch. as they stated.

lexus2108

05-12-08, 10:51 AM

I should have thought to look at FreeDTVShop, It looks like John took the time to scan this to a PDF unlike the others.

lexus2108 - I thought you wanted a box with passthru?

1) Just a few online retailers so far and all will cost more than Wal-Mart.

2) It looks like Full Scan and Quick Scan are only for the Smart Antenna and affect the scan time.

A Smart Antenna is optional and is supposed to improve reception.
That is if you have different towers in different directions.

3) The EPG is just What's on Now/What's on Next nothing ahead as I understand.

However, the Zenith is one channel at a time and the RCA shows them grouped 9 to a page in multiple pages if you have more then 9 channels.

The Channel Information/Program Information however also shows what's on next too and I don't think any others do this either but may be wrong.

P.S. don't forget to add the shipping with BSat it is more than $10 total.

Yes I did get an Analog passthru box the Maganavox G9. It is so hard to use. My aunt can not figure it out. She grew up in a non-computer world. To go to menu is to hard for her. To push a button for 3 seconds to turn it off and then it changes channel to 4 instead of 3.

We realized that the only stations not going digital for her are HSN and a few spanish stations. She will not bother with all the work to watch those 2 stations.

The Magnavox has a small remote and does not control TV

So for second box we wanted the RCA 800B1 with passthru but that will not be avail by end of month and our coupons are expiring and NTIA has said they only looking into extending.

So we will settle for the 800B with no passthru.

Any other info you would like lol? Maybe my blood type? lol:p

lexus2108

05-12-08, 10:56 AM

Malouff

Can you please give me the list of the few online retailers that I can get the RCA 8000B from

My walmart does not have it. I went to 3

BTW can you manually add stations?

Malouff

05-12-08, 11:17 AM

The Converter Box is set to Ch. 3
The VCR is set to Ch. 4

The VCR will not be able to record/watch from the Converter Box unless it is tuned to display Ch. 3 but would output to the T.V. on Ch. 4

Your T.V. should be able to see the VCR on Ch. 4 but if you change it to Ch. 3 would you still see the Converter Box with the VCR both on and off?

The VCR does support passthu so if it was tuned to record/watch a Analog Channel could the T.V. change to Ch. 3 and see the Converter Box.
I am thinking yes but for most of you, there will no longer be Analog so:

Why can't the VCR and Converter Box both be set to the same channel switch on the back?
My only logical guess is they cause interference.

Malouff

05-12-08, 11:59 AM

lexus2108

I understand that you can't manually add stations.
The only real problem with this is if you can only get some channels at different times of the day.

If you have towers coming from multiple locations
you would have to move the antenna and scan for channels after each move.
A smart antenna is suppose to eliminate this as I understand.

I currently have this list of retailers on my EPG thread.
$33.94 @ http://www.freedtvshop.com (http://www.freedtvshop.com/fdtv/converters/dta800b.php) | $64.99 + $8.95 shipping | 6.5% Sales Tax Minnesota
$18.93 @ http://dtv.bsat.net (http://dtv.bsat.net/pc-18-2-rca-dta800-ntia-certified-convertor-box.aspx) | $47.99 + $10.94 shipping | Illinois sales tax
~$9.97 @ Wal-Mart (http://www.walmart.com/catalog/product.do?product_id=8343230)

Edit:
I fixed my retailer price list today and bsat raised their prices to about $21.29 and also is out of stock.
If you have any friends or relatives that live in the west cost maybe they can get it at Wal-Mart for you ;)

lexus2108

05-12-08, 10:36 PM

Malouff

05-12-08, 11:02 PM

You can't add to cart they are out of stock.
It use to be $47.99 not $50.00 most boxes have been raising prices.

lexus2108

05-12-08, 11:27 PM

You can't add to cart they are out of stock.
It use to be $47.99 not $50.00 most boxes have been raising prices.

Great now I can not get one before my coupons expire

obsoperator

05-13-08, 07:42 AM

lexus2108

05-13-08, 01:23 PM

Well, you mean can't get one at the (apparent) lowest price. Freedtv allows units to be added to the Cart today (5/13/08). I was pleased that they let me use my coupon over the internet, and I though 8.95 was a fair shipping charge. Since I went to two Walmarts and only found Magnavox units, I don't feel bad about paying freedtv's price, with a coupon.

How can you order if it is on back order?

Backordered
RCA DTA800B
Price $64.99
$24.99 After Coupon

http://www.freedtvshop.com/fdtv/converters.php

And Honestly I like John of Freedtv BUT Walmart and BSAT are $50 Why would I pay $64.99 Plus shipping.

Plus it says he is back ordered also

Backordered - Reserve Yours Today!
SHIPPING: ONLY $8.95 FOR YOUR ENTIRE ORDER!

obsoperator

05-13-08, 03:26 PM

I don't know what to tell you. Obviously I'm not going to enter a credit card number for a box I already have, but here's my "Checkout" reply at 3:24PM EDT 5/13/08:
RCA DTA800B w/o Coupon 1 $64.99 $64.99
Subtotal $64.99
Shipping is Flat Rate Shipping $8.95
Tax $0.00
Currency is US Dollar Total $73.94
Enter your full converter box coupon number, expiration date, and CVV2 code in the fields under the Other Information section

Sorry if you got a different result.

lexus2108

05-13-08, 05:04 PM

CodeOptimist

05-20-08, 11:53 AM

What's the status on the DTA800's reported audio problem? Does it show up in all/almost all DTA800 boxes?

HiTekVagabond

05-23-08, 12:34 PM

It appears as though my dta800b made 02-08-08 with ver 4.08 firmware has the broadcom chip and has an uninstalled s-video output port and a service jack that is installed but covered from back panel access.
It looks like a BCM3543 ATSC Digital Receiver System on a chip and a Hynix memory chip of some sort. I would guess flash.

Did you get any further?

lexus2108

05-23-08, 04:28 PM

quick Question;

Is rca EPG just NOW and NEXT? OR does it show hours in advance

KCC07

05-23-08, 07:23 PM

quick Question;

Is rca EPG just NOW and NEXT? OR does it show hours in advance
Just now and next.

bizzybody

05-31-08, 12:59 AM

A simple hack to convert the DTA800 to 12 volt DC. http://mobiledtv.blogspot.com/2008/05/finally-watching-tv.html

Surprising such a cheap unit has a separate power supply board rather than all on one board. The really nifty version of this would be to integrate a switched coaxial jack for DC power and a standard 2-pin AC cord plug so that when plugging in DC it cuts off the input from the AC supply, or just use a slide switch. Plenty of room on the back panel. (And fill in the missing parts to add S-Video out!)

dr0doom

06-01-08, 12:33 AM

cia_viewer

06-01-08, 09:59 PM

I've had my DTA800b for 2 months now. It died today, possibly from lack of adequate ventilation. It had plenty of top and side clearance, but not any bottom clearance. It will not go out of standby mode (yellow light only). I've removed/applied power and stuff, but can't get the pwr led to go green anymore. Worked great while it lasted. Guess I'll have to take it back for replacement. Does having it on it's side help with ventilation?

Caveat: I have not seen a RCA DTA800B and certainly not inside the case.

One possible benefit of standing it on its side could be in longer convection currents flowing over its circuit board. Natural convection currents might achieve a little more velocity and slightly more effective cooling.

Are there ventilation holes? Is the case plastic or metal?

If the case is metal, air can circulate inside transferring heat from the circuit board to the case.

If there are perforations only on the sides, then cooler air could be drawn in the 'lower' side to flow over the circuit board and exhaust out the 'upper' side.

The thermal design of my Zenith DTT900 seems to be much better: metal case with perforations on each side and plenty of perforations in both top and bottom.

It seems that for many of these products, Thermal Design has a very limited budget. CECBs (Set Top Boxes) are most likely placed on top of or squeezed into a cabinet already filled with warm electronic equipment (possibly with glass doors). Oh Well...

dr0doom

06-02-08, 12:25 AM

Are there ventilation holes? Is the case plastic or metal?

The case is plastic and the vent holes are along the bottom and top of the case. No holes on the sides.

cia_viewer

06-02-08, 09:29 AM

The case is plastic and the vent holes are along the bottom and top of the case. No holes on the sides.

In that case, maybe tilted would be better. You want to encourage cooler air to be drawn the bottom (lowest point) and as heated let it float out the holes at the top (highest point). (e.g.: if the holes on the top of the case are off center, raise the side with the holes on top.

If the holes are centered or clustered near the same side of the case, try to provide more 'breathing space' all around. I once positioned a VCR with strips of wood under the side edges for better cooling.

holl_ands

06-02-08, 04:49 PM

It looks like a BCM3543 ATSC Digital Receiver System on a chip and a Hynix memory chip of some sort. I would guess flash.

Did you get any further?
What is the model number on the Thomson tin-can tuner?

johnied

06-02-08, 05:21 PM

I would recommend for any of these boxes that get hot.. get a package of rubber stick on feet at Radio shack(if they still carry them, hopefully). that will give it more space
for input air at the bottom, and thus output air out of the top or sides. Good luck

John

djdandy

06-03-08, 04:46 PM

Help!

Complete layman here ~ this is my first post, as this site was highly recommended to me.

We have satellite on my main set, but we ALSO have 3 TVs in my home that are run off my roof antenna. I get perfect reception with my analog over-the-air sets.

I live in a major population center on Long Island, just outside New York City. I purchased the Magnavox TB100MW9 (the only brand they had available) from a local Wal-Mart. I was unable to pick up ANY over-the-air signals with it, other than my local PBS channel, channel 21, which is obviously near the VHF 2-13 band in my locale.

I NEXT took this very same Magnavox unit to my uncle's house, which is about 25 miles closer to New York City, & the unit works perfectly...............................leaving aside any technical shortcomings I've been reading about the Magnavox unit (I'm not a video-phobe, so I'm just looking for simplicity).

I've spoken to engineers at the ABC network, as well as at my local PBS channel, and they're telling me that there are still some major issues, which vary by locale, yet to be resolved amongst the stations as well as the FCC. Apparently, on February 17, the major broadcasters will switch their high-broadband digital transmissions from their current digital signal frequencies, back to their more powerful, main (to-be-abandoned analog) signal frequencies, which should allow me to THEN pick up the signals with my converter box & roof antenna.

To repeat, my same Magnavox unit works perfectly in Long Beach, NY (just a few miles from the NYC "border"), while it picks up nothing (other than my local Channel 21 PBS digital transmission) in my home (about 30 miles from the NYC "border"). And, to repeat, I get perfect reception with my roof antenna for my analog sets, in my MAJOR population center.

1) Do I need a different converter brand? ~ remember, the Magnavox unit works perfectly in Long Beach.

2) Do I need a new antenna? ~ remember, my roof antenna gets perfect reception of the analog stations.

3) I have no problem with the status quo of just pulling in the analog transmissions until Feb 17 without any converter boxes. That said, should my problem be solved on February 17, when the major broadcasters will switch their digital transmissions back to their more powerful original broadcast frequencies (that they currently use for their analog transmissions) which my roof antenna pulls in so perfectly?

I apologize for the length of this post, but the misinformation in the marketplace, is nothing short of mindboggling.

Thank you,

djdandy

holl_ands

06-03-08, 05:18 PM

First of all, can you tell us where you are located to whatever accuracy you chose
(at least zipcode, preferably nearby cross streets.....or LAT/LONG)

Or post combined analog & digital reception results from www.tvfool.com

djdandy

06-03-08, 06:27 PM

Thanks much for responding.

I went to the tvcool site you linked, & it didn't seem consistent to me..............implying that the signal strength would not materially change, come Feb. 17.

My zip code is 11746; my uncle's zip code is 11561.

My antenna height is approx. 25'; my uncle's approximate antenna height is 15'.

My cross street is Ormond St; my uncle's cross street is W. Park Ave.

Using the tvfool data base, it's telling me my current analog-only reception is in the yellow ("not that strong") classification, & yet my reception is near perfect. It's also showing me that my digital reception is also in the yellow classification, and yet I can't get anything with the exception of WLIW 21, which is in the green ("quite strong") classification (which makes sense).

When I go to the post-transition data base, the classifications remain in the yellow range.

Many thanks for your thoughts.

djdandy

kousikb

06-03-08, 09:26 PM

You should look at the digital signals in tvfool. I see them all green except for 5.1 (FOX).
Most probably your antenna is a VHF only antenna. You will need UHF antenna to get the NY stations. I see that your signal strength is approx -43.6dBm to -66.3dBm. You will need a good UHF antenna (like CM4228) paired with a good pre-amp (like CM7777). Before investing money and time for a good outdoor antenna setup, I suggest, you try a cheap $10 amplified indoor antenna available in Big Lots. Else, if you can get hold a Terk HDTVa (J&R , B&H, Siixth Ave, PC Richard & Son) sells them at their retail location. In case it doesn't work just return them.

djdandy

06-03-08, 10:07 PM

I also looked at tvfool, and none of my digital stations are shown in green *background color*, other than the PBS WLIW Ch. 21. The others are all rated in a lower quality yellow or red (Fox) *background color*.

I can't cut & paste it, but the major network DT channels & dBM's for my MAJOR POPULATION location are:

WCBS-DT ~ 86.3 -> CBS
WNBC-DT ~ 85.0 -> NBC
WNEW-DT ~ 93.8 -> FOX
WABC-DT ~ 86.7 -> ABC
WWOR-DT ~ 86.8 -> My Nine
WPIX-DT ~ 86.3 -> CW
WNET-DT ~ 101.4 -> PBS New York City

By comparison, our local PBS Channel 21, WLIW-DT ~ 58.9!

So, I guess I must have a VHF antenna, although I guarantee you that no one has EVER brought up this distinction to me before, & I've consulted several broadcast station engineers & executives. Moreover, the packaging on all the converter boxes I have studied, have not mentioned a word about UHF antennas!

So, my only question would be, as I am now being "assured" by all these experts!!!, come February 17, will I *THEN* be able to pull in these digital stations, with my current antennae, which gets perfect reception now?

If not, I can imagine tens of thousands of consumers buying digital converters, being duped, because NO digital converter will work, without a UHF antenna, which will be a major added expense. And, yet, the engineers tell me the problem will be solved, once the major broadcast channels revert to broadcasting their digital signals, come Feb 17, on their more powerful transmission licensed frequencies that they now use for analog.

Many thanks for your time, as the information being disseminated out there, is not only contradictory, but shockingly uninformed.

hardly

06-03-08, 10:23 PM

I'm afraid this is way off topic for the RCA DTA800 thread.
Sorry

kousikb

06-03-08, 10:28 PM

@djdandy, Previously I had used your zip code only. I used your street address and I see why you might be having issues. You are in a fringe situation because of your geographical location (according to tvfool estimate, which can very well be wrong) and most of the stations are 1Edge and with ss -71dBm to -91dBm. You need to put in some efforts and lot of forum reading to troubleshoot your situation. But I may be wrong and you really need to try with different antenna setup to see whether it will really work or not. And by antenna setup, I mean outdoor setup only (no indoor setup). There is a thread to build your own UHF antenna in this forum within $10. See whether it suits you. The DIY antenna would be helpful even after 2009 transition, when ABC (7), PBS(13) and CW(11) moves to upper VHF from the current UHF allocation.

johnied

06-04-08, 08:21 AM

Rogee

06-04-08, 11:24 AM

Where would one buy this RCA convertor box, other than wal mart which doesnt seem to have them on the east coast either??

I am in the 13902 zip if anyone knows of any brick and mortar stores.

Go to the bottom of this page and enter your address:
https://www.dtv2009.gov/VendorSearch.aspx

It will bring up all stores in your area that carry the boxes and accept the coupons. Many of the stores might be local A/V or electronics stores, so you'll probably need to call each store to find out what they carry.

However, I haven't seen the RCA anywhere other than Walmart, so you might have to order online if you really want this box.

viewer29

06-07-08, 01:02 AM

Is there an online manual for the RCA DTA800? Or a manual for a clone of the box? I've found lots of manuals, but not this one.

Thanks

After days of looking here for a link and elsewhere, I found it almost immediately after posting this. Sorry to have taken up forum time.

Malouff

06-07-08, 01:16 AM

User's Manual (http://www.freedtvshop.com/fdtv/converters/dta800bUM.pdf) thanks to mosquito from FreeDTVShop
There are no clones of this box but I would say the DTVPal is as close as it gets.
These two boxes show more than the current channel on the EPG.

Vidmo

06-07-08, 09:54 AM

Hey people,

We've used our RCA DTA800 for a few weeks now. Yesterday, I switched the box to a different TV and now I cannot find the RCA user manual, and thus cannot find the universal remote codes to re-program the RCA remote to this TV.

I see the link above for the user manual, but unfortunately the codes information is NOT available anywhere on the internet. Would it be possible for one of you to scan the code pages and post a link here? If not that, then just posting the codes for Panasonic TV's would be great.

TIA,
Vidmo

richardav

06-07-08, 11:12 AM

SallyD

06-07-08, 01:42 PM

Hi all - I have recently set up my RCA DTA800 in front of my DVR. I've disabled the auto-off feature so my DVR can record scheduled programs. However, the DTA keeps losing audio. It almost always happens overnight, but I can't even trust it to still have audio during the day and will have to power cycle it when I get home from work before any evening shows start recording. Sometimes, it loses video while retaining the audio. But usually it loses audio. We have two RCA DTAs. The other one is connected to another TV with no DVR so we turn that one off more frequently and don't see the problem there - but occasionally we do. I am going to swap the boxes, as a test, but I think it will still be an issue.

Is anyone else experiencing this problem? I suspect it might be due to occasional weak signal coming from the antenna confuses the conversion.

Vidmo

06-07-08, 02:30 PM

Panasonic 040, 045, 125, 179, 187, 254, 257, 288, 299, 301

Thanks Richard. None of these seems to be working. Can you verify the process?
1) Press PGM.
2) Enter code.
3) Press PGM again.

I've also tried pressing the TV power button instead of the PGM button at the end of the process, but neither seemed to work with these codes.

TIA,
Vidmo

richardav

06-07-08, 03:59 PM

Thanks Richard. None of these seems to be working. Can you verify the process?
1) Press PGM.
2) Enter code.
3) Press PGM again.

I've also tried pressing the TV power button instead of the PGM button at the end of the process, but neither seemed to work with these codes.

TIA,
Vidmo

Manual says:

1) Press PGM (signal indicator turns on, remains lit).
2) Enter code.
3) Press OK (signal indicator turns off when complete).
4) Test

Vidmo

06-07-08, 04:27 PM

Manual says:

1) Press PGM (signal indicator turns on, remains lit).
2) Enter code.
3) Press OK (signal indicator turns off when complete).
4) Test

Excellent! That did it. I really appreciate your help.

Vidmo

avnstf

06-07-08, 04:46 PM

Malouff

06-07-08, 05:08 PM

I don't have a RCA avnstf but there is a RCA DTA800B: Video Demo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQafyXftsSQ) around 2:58 the video shows the EPG.

avnstf

06-07-08, 05:21 PM

I don't have a RCA avnstf but there is a RCA DTA800B: Video Demo (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQafyXftsSQ) around 2:58 the video shows the EPG.

Hi and thanks - watched the video, so I see how it scans channels and then apparently scans immediately to get epg data.

I wonder what happens the next time you turn it on...I assume it doesn't immediately rescan for the current epg data...also is the program button for the epg? if pushed, does it then do a scan? maybe others can describe this...

thanks...

jraivala

06-07-08, 05:52 PM

I can't find my program code leaflet and need the tv remote codes for a JCPenny television

richardav

06-07-08, 08:46 PM

I'm curious how the EPG screen comes up, since it is supposed to have data for multiple channels at once. Does the screen come up fast, or is there a pause while it tunes to a bunch of channels to get the data?

Aside from the about-to-be released DTVPal, this is the only cecb presently available that has a multichannel screen, so I'm curious to know how it works...thanks

When you bring up the EPG screen, it continuously updates the information (presumably by tuning to each channel). It typically takes, I would say, 10-20 seconds to update the entire page. Some channels just show "no data". There is a progress bar at the top of the screen showing the update status. Once the bar shows complete, it cycles back to zero and updates again.

richardav

06-07-08, 08:48 PM

I can't find my program code leaflet and need the tv remote codes for a JCPenny television

JC Penny: 001, 005, 007, 018, 039, 040, 042, 053, 063, 079, 080, 135, 163, 260, 274, 275

avnstf

06-07-08, 09:32 PM

When you bring up the EPG screen, it continuously updates the information (presumably by tuning to each channel). It typically takes, I would say, 10-20 seconds to update the entire page. Some channels just show "no data". There is a progress bar at the top of the screen showing the update status. Once the bar shows complete, it cycles back to zero and updates again.

thanks!

by the way, I guess if it's continuously updating the page, which must mean it's tuning to all the channels previously found, that means that you don't have any audio from the channel you were just looking at?

richardav

06-07-08, 10:11 PM

thanks!

by the way, I guess if it's continuously updating the page, which must mean it's tuning to all the channels previously found, that means that you don't have any audio from the channel you were just looking at?

Correct.

n2ic

06-16-08, 04:06 PM

Has anyone tried the DTA800B on VHF DTV channels ? Before you answer "yes", make sure it really is a VHF DTV channel by checking (the W9WI website is a good place to check) . The channel displayed is not necessarily the actual channel that the signal is being transmitted on. Currently, there are very few VHF DTV channels being used - that will change after the analog stations vacate the VHF channels next year.

Now, my story...

I live in a fringe area, but on a hilltop with a decent, outdoor, rotatable antenna. If I point at El Paso, TX, the DTA800B works fine, scanning for available channels, and locking in on those that are strong enough. All of the El Paso DTV channels are currently UHF. If I point at Silver City, NM, where there is currently one DTV channel, the DTA800B scanning locks up at 14 %.. It stays frozen forever, until I cancel the scanning. The one Silver City, NM DTV channel is on VHF - channel 12. I spoke with an engineer at the TV station, and I am not the first person to have this problem with the DTA800B. He thinks that the DTA800B is being overloaded - the signal is too strong ! Something seems seriously amiss - Are all DTA800B's broken on VHF channels, or do I (and others) just have a dud ?