Sangean HDT-1X west of Boston

Check out the FCC data on WNEF , only 1 KW and the signal is all vertical:

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/fmq?list=0&facid=93889

Here is the coverage map:

http://www.fcc.gov/fcc-bin/FMTV-serv...FM1102728.html

Could be a challenge!

Remember, you loose about 20 DB of signal when you use an antenna not properly polorized and most likely your antenna is horizontal. They're using vertical for better mobile (automobile) coverage.

jr tech,
Thank you , thank you. for that link. I love stuff like this.

Any way, back to the mention of WCRB in Lowell MA. It was one of the few reasons I purchase an HD radio. I was disappointed in Everett with roof antenna in that I could not get the digital signal. With -2 stations I get about 30 channels in Boston. This is about 85% or so of any lists that I've seen.

After looking at the coverage map for this station I think I should be able to receive it. ( I get the analog ok). My roof TV antenna seems to be pointed about 95 degrees southwest of Lowell (non rotating). I notice the ERP is listed at 37 whatevers. Should I be able to receive this at 25 miles?

Thanks for the link again (i'm going to have fun for a while with this),

Mike Cocorochio

Mike C.

You are so welcome!

It sounds as if your antenna is pointed about Southwest... optimum for the station in Lowell would be more like Northwest (heading about 330 degrees or so). Many antennas have a sharp null off of the side (at 90 degrees) so that *might* be your problem.

Looking at the Application list on the FCC site, for WCRB:

http://svartifoss2.fcc.gov/cgi-bin/w...ility_id=23441

it appears that they have filed for several STA (special temporary authority) for their FD (digital) operation, which *might* indicate that they are not operating as they should be in some way. It could also just be indicating that they consider digital operation a "test".

Some stations connect their digital transmitter to their "standby" antenna, which may be much lower on the tower, or even a different tower, and may provide a weaker signal than is possible with a more "normal" configuration, where the analog and HD signal are emitted from the same antenna structure. Of course, if the analog transmitter needs to use the "standby" antenna for some reason, the digital is turned off... Bummer!

You might want to call the station to see if they are indeed transmitting in digital at this time!

hope this helps
jr

Patiently waiting for WEEI (103.7)