Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
Despite the gripes, many people are wiseing up to realize that the don't need to pay $1000+ per year to watch TV. Nearly 800,000 U.S. TV households cut the cord http://news.yahoo.com/s/ytech_gadg/20100413/tc_ytech_gadg/ytech_gadg_tc1598 * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
On Apr 14, 2010, at 12:52 PM, b_s-wilk wrote: Useless! My thoughts exactly. Only the object of our frustration differs. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
t.piwowar escribió: On Apr 14, 2010, at 12:52 PM, b_s-wilk wrote: Useless! My thoughts exactly. Only the object of our frustration differs. Do you have a source for data comparison of device tuners for current TVs, converters, DVD recorders, comparing them for consumers to decide which one to purchase? The report doesn't direct us to that kind of information. We need to have good data on the boxes. I can compare headphones--all that information is in the specs. I can compare cars, radios/receivers, linens, but not TV tuners. Specs for tuners tell us about product dimensions, channel range and which cables can be connected, but nothing about how well the tuner picks up local and distant stations. The report tells us in 200 pages how last year's converter boxes fared. We're still waiting for comparison data in plain English to help us choose the device with the best range, reception, reliability, etc., on a few easy to read pages. And you're frustrated about... * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
On Thu, Apr 15, 2010 at 11:41 AM, b_s-wilk b1sun...@yahoo.es wrote: Do you have a source for data comparison of device tuners for current TVs, converters, DVD recorders, comparing them for consumers to decide which one to purchase? The report doesn't direct us to that kind of information. We need to have good data on the boxes. I can compare headphones--all that information is in the specs. I can compare cars, radios/receivers, linens, but not TV tuners. Specs for tuners tell us about product dimensions, channel range and which cables can be connected, but nothing about how well the tuner picks up local and distant stations. The report tells us in 200 pages how last year's converter boxes fared. We're still waiting for comparison data in plain English to help us choose the device with the best range, reception, reliability, etc., on a few easy to read pages. And you're frustrated about... Ditto. This is how it has always been in the TV world. Dunno why. No such specification information exists that allows for consumers to make comparisons. User or user-oriented test reviews are all that is available, and even most such reviews never concern themselves with the tuner component. I can find more really useful information on the box that a $50 push lawnmower comes in than I can on a $1,600 TV. Go figure. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
Is it because this information is simply moot when it comes to actual use to the consumer because of all the variables? So many things can affect reception that are out of control of the tuner, perhaps it's pointless. On Thu, Apr 15, 2010 at 9:09 AM, phartz...@gmail.com phartz...@gmail.comwrote: I can find more really useful information on the box that a $50 push lawnmower comes in than I can on a $1,600 TV. Go figure. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
On Thu, Apr 15, 2010 at 12:16 PM, mike xha...@gmail.com wrote: Is it because this information is simply moot when it comes to actual use to the consumer because of all the variables? So many things can affect reception that are out of control of the tuner, perhaps it's pointless. Not at all. I have more than two digital television receivers, all on the same antenna, and the difference between them in ability to obtain a readable signal is very obvious. One could make the same case you have made in about FM receivers, virtually all of which readily provide buyers with tuner specifications. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
Perhaps Mr. Parish is going to bop you in the nose for such a response. The report is rich with useful information, but you have to read it. What a hardship! Useless! I looked through the report, DTV Converter Box Test Program--Results and Lessons Learned. Aside from bad puctuation, yes, the report is rich with information. After you read it your brain will be filled with lots of information, but useful? Maybe for the researchers, but not to consumers. Does it really matter how well any of the converter boxes performed in the Threshold of Visibility (TOV) and Reacquisition, single-static-echo, RF emissions tests or any other test? No, it doesn't. Why? None of the converter boxes I've seen, nor new digital TVs, nor DVD recorders have any of this information on the box or in the description. Few have any technical info on their web sites. Disclaimer: I haven't looked at specs for ALL devices, only ones we considered buying. Specs for my converter, from the manual [less info on the box]: - Product Name - Digital TV converter - Power Supply Input Voltage 100-240 50/60 Hz Power consumption : Maximum 8W, standby 1W - Decoder Video Format: Standard definition VCBS Audio Format: Dolby Digital audio - Signal Input/Output ATSC Antenna/Cable RF IN: F-Connector RF Loop through or NTSC Ch 3/4 out: F-Connector Antenna Impedance: 75 Ohms Channels: VHF 2-13, UHF 14-69 SmartAntenna interface - Video Outputs Composite Video Output for standard analog sets: RCA Connector - Audio Outputs Analog Audio Outputs (L/R): RCA Connectors - Service Software upgrade through RS-232 port: 9 pin D-Sub type - [box also lists dimensions, remote that includes batteries, cables] Is there any useful data from the report to tell me how well this converter box will perform? No. Is there any data from the report to guide consumers to the better devices based on test results? No. Lots of geeky data that Tom or Steve or Roger or I may understand is no help when the manufacturers don't provide any of it in the device specs. How many people/consumers checked with these sites while searching for the right converter or TV: https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm - maybe [when it was available] http://datasheets.maxim-ic.com http://www.haluyatech.com http://www.compendiumarcana.com/ http://mail.ing-steen.se [full links and additional links are in report] Betty * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
On Apr 13, 2010, at 12:24 AM, phartz...@gmail.com wrote: Perhaps Mr. Parish is going to bop you in the nose for such a response. The report is rich with useful information, but you have to read it. What a hardship! * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
At 4:29 AM -0400 4/12/10, t.piwowar wrote: [snip] DTV Converter Box Test Program -- Results and Lessons Learned http://www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/reports/9TR1003-ConverterBoxTestReport.pdf From the above report: The results are presented statistically, without identifying brands or models of converter boxes. Consequently, the report does not provide information that would be useful to consumers for selecting a converter box. -- Roger Lovettsville, VA * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
On Mon, Apr 12, 2010 at 6:07 AM, Roger D. Parish rogerd.par...@gmail.com wrote: At 4:29 AM -0400 4/12/10, t.piwowar wrote: [snip] DTV Converter Box Test Program -- Results and Lessons Learned http://www.fcc.gov/oet/info/documents/reports/9TR1003-ConverterBoxTestReport.pdf From the above report: The results are presented statistically, without identifying brands or models of converter boxes. Consequently, the report does not provide information that would be useful to consumers for selecting a converter box. So, still nothing from manufacturers or the government that would help consumers. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
On Apr 12, 2010, at 6:07 AM, Roger D. Parish wrote: From the above report: The results are presented statistically, without identifying brands or models of converter boxes. Consequently, the report does not provide information that would be useful to consumers for selecting a converter box. It would not be useful to an idiot who expects answers to be presented on a silver platter. I expect more from our list members (or at least some of them). * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV [Was: Broadband Speeds Map]
On Mon, Apr 12, 2010 at 10:07 PM, t.piwowar t...@tjpa.com wrote: On Apr 12, 2010, at 6:07 AM, Roger D. Parish wrote: From the above report: The results are presented statistically, without identifying brands or models of converter boxes. Consequently, the report does not provide information that would be useful to consumers for selecting a converter box. It would not be useful to an idiot who expects answers to be presented on a silver platter. I expect more from our list members (or at least some of them). Perhaps Mr. Parish is going to bop you in the nose for such a response. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV for PC 2
I've tried international TV. Yes, there are probably that many channels out there. Tuning them in when you want to watch them is problematical. I believe there is freeware software available to assist in this. Sporadic claims of being able to watch a distant football game occasionally. But for entertainment value the internet still pales compared to commercial TV. On Thu, Aug 27, 2009 at 5:41 PM, Tom Chamberstom.chamb...@wdn.com wrote: List members : Does anyone have experience and an opinion about software called Digital TV for PC2 , which is supposed to turn almost any PC into a TV with thousands of channels ? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Our VCR with digital tuner is a Panasonic DMR-EZ48V. I think it has both analog and digital outputs. (I didn't install it, so I can't tell you for sure.) As I said, it lets us get digital signals on an old analog TV, by routing everything through the VCR. We could probably get a better picture with a converter box, but the TV isn't that great anyway, so the improvement would be marginal. The point, for us, is that we can actually GET some of the digital signals. We don't have cable or satellite, so we thought that after the conversion we would be converting our analog set into a planter for ferns and other delicate houseplants. I can't report on any DRM issues associated with this VCR, because I haven't yet tried to record anything on the digital side of the machine. The analog side will record any analog broadcast. --Constance Warner -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Richard P. Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2008 12:34 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box Which model? Does your VCR have both analog and digital outputs? Richard P. On Tue, Oct 14, 2008 at 12:15 PM, Constance Warner [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This may not be exactly a propos, but we bought a new VCR with a digital tuner in it. Much to our surprise, we picked up digital signals as soon as we installed it, using an old window-mounted analog antenna. Unfortunately, we can't tell whether all of the stations will come in after the full conversion to digital, as we're still picking up analog signals from the major commercial channels. If you need a new VCR anyway--and you might, because if you want to record digital programs off the airwaves, you need to do it on digital media--this might be a good and easy-to-install alternative to a converter box. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
FYI, if anyone needs a free HDTV in the DC area, here's one on Craigslist: http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/zip/877956943.html The Sony XBR is a great TUBE set and will produce a fantastic picture. The downside is that it's heavy (250 lbs). I'd get this myself but I already have one. Richard P. On Wed, Oct 15, 2008 at 1:46 PM, Constance Warner [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Our VCR with digital tuner is a Panasonic DMR-EZ48V. I think it has both analog and digital outputs. (I didn't install it, so I can't tell you for sure.) As I said, it lets us get digital signals on an old analog TV, by routing everything through the VCR. We could probably get a better picture with a converter box, but the TV isn't that great anyway, so the improvement would be marginal. The point, for us, is that we can actually GET some of the digital signals. We don't have cable or satellite, so we thought that after the conversion we would be converting our analog set into a planter for ferns and other delicate houseplants. I can't report on any DRM issues associated with this VCR, because I haven't yet tried to record anything on the digital side of the machine. The analog side will record any analog broadcast. --Constance Warner -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Richard P. Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2008 12:34 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box Which model? Does your VCR have both analog and digital outputs? Richard P. On Tue, Oct 14, 2008 at 12:15 PM, Constance Warner [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This may not be exactly a propos, but we bought a new VCR with a digital tuner in it. Much to our surprise, we picked up digital signals as soon as we installed it, using an old window-mounted analog antenna. Unfortunately, we can't tell whether all of the stations will come in after the full conversion to digital, as we're still picking up analog signals from the major commercial channels. If you need a new VCR anyway--and you might, because if you want to record digital programs off the airwaves, you need to do it on digital media--this might be a good and easy-to-install alternative to a converter box. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
According to the Specs on your deck, it looks like the tuner is all analog and not digital: TV System * Tuner Qty 2 * Analog Channel Presets 181 Richard P. On Wed, Oct 15, 2008 at 3:56 PM, rlsimon [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: I have a JVC DR-MV1S which has a dolby digital VCR and a DVD recorder with 2 tuners which are described as Tuning System = Frequency synthesized tuner w/channel coverage vhf2-13,uhf14-69,catv113channels ...what is this and is it analog? Digital? ...huh? * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
FYI, this appears to be a scam. Do not attempt to contact this person. Sorry for having posted this. With deepest apologies, Richard P. On Wed, Oct 15, 2008 at 2:12 PM, Richard P. [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: FYI, if anyone needs a free HDTV in the DC area, here's one on Craigslist: DELETED The Sony XBR is a great TUBE set and will produce a fantastic picture. The downside is that it's heavy (250 lbs). I'd get this myself but I already have one. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Couldn't tell you right now, because I'm not home--I can look it up for you when I do get home. We prowled around the Big Box stores, reading boxes and asking questions, until we got a VCR that worked with an analog TV and that had a digital tuner in it. --Constance -Original Message- From: Computer Guys Discussion List [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of Richard P. Sent: Tuesday, October 14, 2008 12:34 PM To: COMPUTERGUYS-L@LISTSERV.AOL.COM Subject: Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box Which model? Does your VCR have both analog and digital outputs? Richard P. On Tue, Oct 14, 2008 at 12:15 PM, Constance Warner [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This may not be exactly a propos, but we bought a new VCR with a digital tuner in it. Much to our surprise, we picked up digital signals as soon as we installed it, using an old window-mounted analog antenna. Unfortunately, we can't tell whether all of the stations will come in after the full conversion to digital, as we're still picking up analog signals from the major commercial channels. If you need a new VCR anyway--and you might, because if you want to record digital programs off the airwaves, you need to do it on digital media--this might be a good and easy-to-install alternative to a converter box. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Got a walmart special and hooked it up to analog tv (sony kv25xbr) and to amplified uhf+vhf antenna on 40' tower pointed toward philly 1h away by car. Get lots of nice analog stuff for years incl. cbs,abc,nbc,whyy,njn,wybe,wb,fox,cw but don't get much on the digital ...initially got 3.x and no longer do. Get 48.x and 61.x ...that's all. What do I need2do to figure out what's wrong. Antenna points correctly as an antennaguy installed it and tested signal strength. There's an amplifier at the bottom of the tower (just inside the wall) and another near the tv... * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Have you run and compared your antenna system on www.antennaweb.org? You can always call the station's engineering department for help. They'll know if things will get better or if it's going to stay the same after Feb. I think that your antenna amplifier transmitter is supposed to be as close to the antenna as possible, which means at the top of the 40' tower. Richard P. On Tue, Oct 14, 2008 at 1:07 PM, rlsimon [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Got a walmart special and hooked it up to analog tv (sony kv25xbr) and to amplified uhf+vhf antenna on 40' tower pointed toward philly 1h away by car. Get lots of nice analog stuff for years incl. cbs,abc,nbc,whyy,njn,wybe,wb,fox,cw but don't get much on the digital ...initially got 3.x and no longer do. Get 48.x and 61.x ...that's all. What do I need2do to figure out what's wrong. Antenna points correctly as an antennaguy installed it and tested signal strength. There's an amplifier at the bottom of the tower (just inside the wall) and another near the tv... * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Anyone buy one yet? Do they get decent signals? Am looking at a list of converters, but don't know which to choose. We live 25-50 miles from broadcast towers and have 2 analog TVs. Wikipedia has a great chart of CECB units with details about their innards. I have an RCA DTA800B1 because my wife wanted big buttons!. It is a basic unit that works well enough. The remote has a universal feature so it could be set to control the TV's on/off, volume, and mute, which is handy. It picks up most of the stations I get with my HDTV set. Both run off the same rooftop antenna which is about 5 miles and line of sight from my local stations. Neither will pick up the more distant (30 miles) analog station that came in fine as analog using just rabbit ears. Cost was $60 ($40 coupon + $20). I also have a TIVAX STB-T9 but have not hooked it up yet. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Which model? Does your VCR have both analog and digital outputs? Richard P. On Tue, Oct 14, 2008 at 12:15 PM, Constance Warner [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: This may not be exactly a propos, but we bought a new VCR with a digital tuner in it. Much to our surprise, we picked up digital signals as soon as we installed it, using an old window-mounted analog antenna. Unfortunately, we can't tell whether all of the stations will come in after the full conversion to digital, as we're still picking up analog signals from the major commercial channels. If you need a new VCR anyway--and you might, because if you want to record digital programs off the airwaves, you need to do it on digital media--this might be a good and easy-to-install alternative to a converter box. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Keep in mind that the frequency the the stations are currently transmitting their digital signal on may change in Feb, 2009. There is now talk of a 30-day delay. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
This may not be exactly a propos, but we bought a new VCR with a digital tuner in it. Much to our surprise, we picked up digital signals as soon as we installed it, using an old window-mounted analog antenna. Unfortunately, we can't tell whether all of the stations will come in after the full conversion to digital, as we're still picking up analog signals from the major commercial channels. If you need a new VCR anyway--and you might, because if you want to record digital programs off the airwaves, you need to do it on digital media--this might be a good and easy-to-install alternative to a converter box. BTW, we're in the Rockville end of Silver Spring, at an area where analog reception is fairly good but not outstanding. One pleasant surprise: WJLA TV (Channel 7), in Washington, has several auxiliary digital channels. One of them, Channel 7-3, has reruns of Magnum PI and Rockford Files on weekday evenings (9-11 p.m.). The comparison with the production values and, especially, the writing on today's network shows is striking. There's just so much more going on in the older shows (in characterization, dialogue, plot, etc.) that you don't see in something like the CSI shows, where the action periodically grinds to a screeching halt while a beautiful but expressionless actor does something incomprehensible to some nasty substance in a test tube, while a popular song plays in the background and the editors go wild with tricky camera shots. On the other hand, MPT (Maryland Public Television) doesn't come in at all where we live, but since it never did have a good signal in Montgomery County, and it apparently doesn't have Dr. Who any more, who cares? --Constance Warner * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
First thing to check is signal strength. Most of these tuner boxes have a signal strength meter function. The meter should give you a reading even for stations that are too weak to lock in their digital signal. Some stations have relocated their antennas as part of their digital TV buildout. How recently has your antenna guy set your antenna orientation? What does AntennaWeb tell you about your location? You may do better with a better box than the ones sold by WallMart. From my reading the ones sold by WallMart have been very basic. You probably need one with above average sensitivity. Some boxes come with Smartenna connections. This is a new kind of antenna that can be electrically skewed to work sort of like an antenna rotor. This will tune the antenna for the best signal for each specific station you are receiving. Got a walmart special and hooked it up to analog tv (sony kv25xbr) and to amplified uhf+vhf antenna on 40' tower pointed toward philly 1h away by car. Get lots of nice analog stuff for years incl. cbs,abc,nbc,whyy,njn,wybe,wb,fox,cw but don't get much on the digital ...initially got 3.x and no longer do. Get 48.x and 61.x ...that's all. What do I need2do to figure out what's wrong. Antenna points correctly as an antennaguy installed it and tested signal strength. There's an amplifier at the bottom of the tower (just inside the wall) and another near the tv... * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Where did you get it? Constance Warner wrote: This may not be exactly a propos, but we bought a new VCR with a digital tuner in it. Much to our surprise, we picked up digital signals as soon as we installed it, using an old window-mounted analog antenna. Unfortunately, we can't tell whether all of the stations will come in after the full conversion to digital, as we're still picking up analog signals from the major commercial channels. If you need a new VCR anyway--and you might, because if you want to record digital programs off the airwaves, you need to do it on digital media--this might be a good and easy-to-install alternative to a converter box. BTW, we're in the Rockville end of Silver Spring, at an area where analog reception is fairly good but not outstanding. One pleasant surprise: WJLA TV (Channel 7), in Washington, has several auxiliary digital channels. One of them, Channel 7-3, has reruns of Magnum PI and Rockford Files on weekday evenings (9-11 p.m.). The comparison with the production values and, especially, the writing on today's network shows is striking. There's just so much more going on in the older shows (in characterization, dialogue, plot, etc.) that you don't see in something like the CSI shows, where the action periodically grinds to a screeching halt while a beautiful but expressionless actor does something incomprehensible to some nasty substance in a test tube, while a popular song plays in the background and the editors go wild with tricky camera shots. On the other hand, MPT (Maryland Public Television) doesn't come in at all where we live, but since it never did have a good signal in Montgomery County, and it apparently doesn't have Dr. Who any more, who cares? --Constance Warner * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Actually, digital signals are both, and actually a lot _more_ reliable. To those that can receive them, anyway. What worries me much more is that the format offers no compatible way to encode to newer formats. i.e., it's stuck with mpeg2 compression, with no way to use the superior mpeg4 (currently). On Mon, Oct 13, 2008 at 12:06 PM, b_s-wilk [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: The conversion to digital should be delayed until digital signals are as powerful and reliable as analog signals. * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
On Oct 13, 2008, at 12:06 PM, b_s-wilk wrote: Anyone buy one yet? Do they get decent signals? Am looking at a list of converters, but don't know which to choose. We live 25-50 miles from broadcast towers and have 2 analog TVs. I have had two of the Zenith DTT900 units for some time now, and they work quite well and are highly regarded in various ratings of converter boxes. I get all signals better in digital than I got them in analog, including those from over thirty miles away. My units do not have analog pass-through, and I probably would not use it anyway since the digital signals for whatever reason are better than analog at my location. I do have a very good external antenna, but even with a set-top antenna my digital reception beats analog. There are reception issues that will probably not go away, such as momentary interruptions to the picture display primarily caused by out- of-phase signal reflections created by passing aircraft and trucks and cars, but those were present in analog as well along with snow. Overall, the digital experience has suited me better than the analog I had gotten used to over many years, even with the occasional signal glitches previously mentioned. Digital reception does have a lot to do with the quality and sensitivity of the receiver itself, and the DTT-900, using LG components, rates very highly in sensitivity as well as image quality. The Zenith units do not display as complete a programming schedule as some others do, but I would not trade away quality of reception for a more extensive program guide. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
I bought a Zenith from Circuit City and a Magnavox from WalMart. I like the Zenith better. I don't use it all that much but I mostly got them to play with and I got the $40 coupons from the feds at https://www.dtv2009.gov/ paid about $10 on top of that. I can't get Baltimore with rabbit ears any more from where I live in Fairfax County with the digital signal. Check out Antennaweb.org to see what they expect that you should be able -- John Duncan Yoyo ---o) * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
Keep in mind that the frequency the the stations are currently transmitting their digital signal on may change in Feb, 2009. Locally, our stations are currently broadcasting digital on UHF channels, but some will transfer the digital transmissions back to the VHF frequency in Feb. All this to say that when you get your converter, your reception issues may change in Feb. depending upon what your stations has planned. See DTV.org for more info, or call your station and ask the engineering department. Richard P. On Mon, Oct 13, 2008 at 12:06 PM, b_s-wilk [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Anyone buy one yet? Do they get decent signals? Am looking at a list of converters, but don't know which to choose. We live 25-50 miles from broadcast towers and have 2 analog TVs. Artec Digital-to-Analog Converter Box, Model T3AP, Analog RF Signal Pass-Through Sunkey SK-801 ATSC Digital TV Converter box, Analog Signal Pass-Through TIVAX STB-T9 Digital TV Converter Box with Remote TIVAX STB-T8 Digital TV Converter Box with Remote, Analog Signal Pass-Through Zenith (LG) DTT901 Digital TV Tuner Converter Box with Analog Pass-Through COSHIP N9901T DTV Converter Box with Analog Pass-Through KINGBOX K8V1 ATSC Tuner Digital Converter Box, Digital-to-Analog Converter Box, Zentech DF2000 DTV Converter Box with Remote, Tower Shape Artec ATSC Full Digital Conventer Box, Digital-to-Analog Converter Box, Analog Signal Pass-Through, Model T3AP Pro, Artec ATSC Full Digital Conventer Box, Digital-to-Analog Converter Box, Model T3A Pro, TIVAX DT-01 Amplified Indoor Digital TV Antenna, Perfect for Digital Converter Box and HDTV to Receive Free HD channels More? The conversion to digital should be delayed until digital signals are as powerful and reliable as analog signals. This is the worst time to expect millions of people to put out money for new TVs or converters. It's another gift to manufacturers, and a loss for consumers. How about offering discount cable, FIOS, satellite for those people who live within analog viewing range but outside digital? Betty * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** * * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] digital TV converter box
On Oct 13, 2008, at 6:00 PM, Richard P. wrote: Keep in mind that the frequency the the stations are currently transmitting their digital signal on may change in Feb, 2009. Locally, our stations are currently broadcasting digital on UHF channels, but some will transfer the digital transmissions back to the VHF frequency in Feb. All this to say that when you get your converter, your reception issues may change in Feb. depending upon what your stations has planned. See DTV.org for more info, or call your station and ask the engineering department. This is good information. Another good source for info: http://antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx A reversion from their current UHF signals back to VHF in February 2009 will mean that a VHF antenna may be needed to get a good signal. Actually, any old TV antenna used for analog will work as long as it covers UHF as well as VHF into one output. Some set-top antennas, such as the venerable rabbit ear have a separate output for VHF and UHF. That will not work well with your converter box. You'll need both UHF and VHF being fed by a single 75 ohm cable. Steve * ** List info, subscription management, list rules, archives, privacy ** ** policy, calmness, a member map, and more at http://www.cguys.org/ ** *
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV
Watza deal with plasma/lcd at present ...I see Laser TVs are in the pipeline ...was I right to wait ...I use a 1984 Sony kv25xbr which is a 25 tube set which still gets rave comments ...it also has lotsa inputs/outputs, etc. I can live with it longer if the Laser will be superior, and/or if the emergence of Laser TVs drives down the prices of the predecessors ...wadda y'all think? * == QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in == * == the body of an email send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] == * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header X-No-Archive: yes will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV
True but most public TV stations are low powered stations. I can get only a couple of stations via antenna where I live. One of those is APT (Alabama Public Television) The other is a local Fox affiliate but both of these have low powered antennas. You might be surprised who is low powered versus who is not. Even in the big city there are many low powered TV stations that tend to be ethnic, cultural or similar type of stations. Stewart At 05:57 PM 1/10/2008, you wrote: On Jan 10, 2008, at 6:16 PM, Rev. Stewart Marshall wrote: I just read an article in the local paper that noted not all TV stations will be converting to digital. There are only 1760 full power stations that will have to change. But there are over 2900 low power and 4400 translators stations that will not have to convert. Apparently if you get the wrong box and receive one of these low power or translator stations you might not get the stations with the box. All of the above is true. The converter boxes will generally end up blocking access to the transmitters that are not required to convert to digital. Most large metro areas are only served by the full power transmitters, with low power and translator facilities serving outer, rural and mountainous areas. Steve Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Prince of Peace Ozark, AL SL 82 * == QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in == * == the body of an email send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] == * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header X-No-Archive: yes will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV
I'm not sure I believe this story. Do they cite references? We didn't even get a link to the newspaper story. It just seems to me once the new owners of the old frequencies start using them, they're going to be awfully upset if some TV station, low power or not, is stepping on their signals. Possibly the author (or reader) is confusing broadcast TV with things like TV over Amateur radio. I just read an article in the local paper that noted not all TV stations will be converting to digital. * == QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in == * == the body of an email send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] == * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header X-No-Archive: yes will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV
On Jan 10, 2008, at 7:20 PM, Rev. Stewart Marshall wrote: Even in the big city there are many low powered TV stations that tend to be ethnic, cultural or similar type of stations. True enough. I was speaking of the major carriers, the primary network affiliates, the ones that the ninety percent of viewers are watching. It is the 700 megahertz channels, the VHF band that is coveted by, and will be auctioned off to the corporate interests that I was referring to, but failed to clarify. The UHF band will pretty much be left alone to the best of my knowledge. Steve * == QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in == * == the body of an email send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] == * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header X-No-Archive: yes will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV
Local paper, but an AP article written by John Dunbar. The low power ones cannot step up their signal they are limited in wattage. Stewart At 07:42 PM 1/10/2008, you wrote: I'm not sure I believe this story. Do they cite references? We didn't even get a link to the newspaper story. It just seems to me once the new owners of the old frequencies start using them, they're going to be awfully upset if some TV station, low power or not, is stepping on their signals. Possibly the author (or reader) is confusing broadcast TV with things like TV over Amateur radio. Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Prince of Peace Ozark, AL SL 82 * == QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in == * == the body of an email send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] == * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header X-No-Archive: yes will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV
The VHF range is huge in the way of bandwidth. Many people forget that part of the FM band is contained in this spectrum. If you have a local channel 6, tune to FM 87.9 or so and you will get that station on air. One of the ways that they have allowed multiple FM stations on the air is by limiting their power (or output wattage) and by tuning antennas. The local FM station has a very wide east west pattern with their antenna. If it were aimed north it would walk all over Montgomery AL stations, however it does not reach much farther north than 50 miles. However it reaches over 100 miles west. These same restriction can be used to make sure that adjacent VHF TV stations that still exist will not step on or get stepped on whoever gets the empty frequencies. I do not think any one entity will be able to get a VHF frequency and push their signal across the US, the wave length makes that impossible. So the new users of the Empty VHF frequencies will be much like TV stations I think. Licensed for an area. Stewart At 08:39 PM 1/10/2008, you wrote: This author did not distinguish and it is possible that part of his story was cut out by the local paper. But our Alabama Public TV stations are all VHF not UHF around here. Stewart Rev. Stewart A. Marshall mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Prince of Peace Ozark, AL SL 82 * == QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in == * == the body of an email send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] == * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive from 1/1/2000 is on the MARC http://marc.info/?l=computerguys-l * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header X-No-Archive: yes will not be archived
Re: [CGUYS] Digital TV
There have been rumblings like that for years, but I'd be surprised if anyone really does it. I mean, as people buy HD TV's, they're going to expect HD pictures. I don't get WMPT here, so I'll have to take your word for it that they've made this decision. I'm mostly curious to know *what* they're planning to put on these other channels and how exactly does an ATSC tuner tune them in (I've never used ATSC)? On 8/30/07, MrMike6by9 [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Not the whole story. Over at AVSForum.com, there has been much discussion of this issue. The temptation is that the same bandwidth required for one HD channel can host several SD digital channels. On some systems, users are complaining that the HD channels are bit-starved because the broadcasters want the extra revenue that might come from multiple channels. Locally, we have an example of how bad it can get. WMPT has all but eliminated their HD broadcasts and even removed HD from the channel name (although the broadcaster is a non-profit). They claim to want to able to add more SD channels. * == QUICK LIST-COMMAND REFERENCE - Put the following commands in == * == the body of an email send 'em to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] == * Join the list: SUBSCRIBE COMPUTERGUYS-L Your Name * Too much mail? Try Daily Digests command: SET COMPUTERGUYS-L DIGEST * Tired of the List? Unsubscribe command: SIGNOFF COMPUTERGUYS-L * New address? From OLD address send: CHANGE COMPUTERGUYS-L YourNewAddress * Need more help? Send mail to: [EMAIL PROTECTED] * List archive at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/ * RSS at www.mail-archive.com/computerguys-l@listserv.aol.com/maillist.xml * Messages bearing the header X-No-Archive: yes will not be archived
