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story category DTV Transition: This Is Only a Test
Looks like people are getting the picture
(old news - 02:01PM Sunday May 04 2008)
tags: Video · business · cable
In case you haven’t heard, people who rely on rabbit ears to get their television signals are going to lose their ability to watch TV as of February 2009. Despite a great push to make sure that all consumers are aware of this, concerns remain that someone out there isn’t going to know what’s going on when that transition takes place. A recent test by a Las Vegas television station seems to indicate that the transition will go smoothly. The station ran a series of “this is only a test” style simulated blackouts to show customers what was going to happen when the transition takes place. They announced that anyone who could still see their television screen during these blackouts would not have any problems after the transition and encouraged people to call with their concerns. Only one call came in so either people are getting the picture or they’re entirely disinterested in what’s going on.

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Forums » DTV Transition: This Is Only a Test
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Greg_Z
Premium
join:2001-08-08
Springfield, IL

Not a concern yet

I would say disinterested, but the majority that have CATV or Satellite, probably never noticed.
--
I threw out the map a long time ago. Now I follow my own direction!
jc100

join:2002-04-10

Re: Not a concern yet

I am one of those unlucky people with rabbit ears. I am not disinterested but nor do I feel like being forced to shell out money on a converter. I am still waiting until close to the date to see what those boxes run come 2009. I have put in my order for the coupon so we shall see what happens anyway. On a side note, I can't say I enjoy rabbit ears but the same token, I don't know if I really enjoy having to buy a box to receive a signal. I guess it will depend if this box eliminates the headache of moving the ears around for a signal . I havent done much research into how these boxes work yet.

Greg_Z
Premium
join:2001-08-08
Springfield, IL

Re: Not a concern yet

Then, get the $40 coupon, and get the ATSC STB. Or get a new TV set.
jc100

join:2002-04-10


1 edit

Re: Not a concern yet

Yes man, get get get. Takes money to buy things and some of us aren't independently wealthy or have the means to go and waste money on extras. I'll just wait and see if the box goes down in price. I imagine right now that 40 dollar coupon is only a partial cost of the box. Therefore, hopefully in a year itll be cheaper.

As per your undue response (which I'm sure will follow) you are lucky you get that coupon to begin with, I've got a nice retort. I'll glad take the money our government made from selling off the spectrum at the tax payers expense. After all, we fund the FCC and public airways via our dollars. Therefore, the fact they sold this off at the cost of tax payers means that money SHOULD go back to us to fix what they broke =).
jsouth
Jsouth

join:2000-12-12
Wichita, KS

Re: Not a concern yet

From what I have seen the $40 coupon would make the box around $9 or so. I don't see it going much cheaper than that.
--
Bush bashing is old. How about more solutions instead?
jc100

join:2002-04-10

Re: Not a concern yet

Not horrible but for once I think this profit made off the spectrum should be used to cover the full cost of the boxes. I am not looking for a handout but the government eats our tax dollars and made money here at our expense. Since they made this a problem, this time it's their job to use said profits to remedy it for those affected. I rarely think this is the case but this time around, I actually believe it to be true.
openbox9

join:2004-01-26
Alexandria, VA
·AT&T Southeast

Re: Not a concern yet

Did the government purchase your current television? Unless you're leeching off of the welfare system, no it didn't. TV is for entertainment and isn't a right of anyone. If you want to continue watching OTA broadcasts from full power transmitters after Feb, buy converter, upgrade to a new TV, subscribe to cable/satellite, or pick up a book from the local library for free and enjoy life.
jc100

join:2002-04-10

Re: Not a concern yet

No they didnt purchase but they damn well used my tax dollars to fund the system in which they are selling and now made a profit from.....
openbox9

join:2004-01-26
Alexandria, VA
·AT&T Southeast

Re: Not a concern yet

I'm not sure what "system" you're referring to. The system that manages the precious finite spectrum? The system that will benefit from the increase money into the treasury's coffers therefore minimizing your future tax hikes? The emergency response system that will benefit from infrastructure build out? My tax dollars get used for numerous socialist programs that are far more of a sieve than that of the FCC. Of all of the things to complain about, increased revenue, advancement in technology, and the potential for nationwide broadband that everyone around here drools over, isn't very high on the list, IMO.
jc100

join:2002-04-10

Re: Not a concern yet

Hah stop future tax hikes. Classic. That's along the same lines of Expecting this administration not to add another trillion to the national deficit before departure. Tax hikes = pay for wasteful spending. Tax rebates, while giving us more money, come at the expense of a devalued dollar. Someone still has to foot the bill. Republicans borrow, borrow, borrow to get it and put the dollar in its current circumstance. Democrats tax to pay for their wasteful misfortunes. Either way, that money added to the treasury has long since been spent. It probably went to buy a few armored cars for that quagmire known as Iraq that has stagnated into it's fifth year... Back to the topic, the system I refer to is the FCC and the PUBLIC AIRWAYS which tax payers funded and owned. That system. Since they made money OFF OUR TAXES, said money should be returned to us in form of absolute free converter boxes. After all, American's funded it. While T.V. isn't a necessity, nor was selling off this spectrum either.
maxpower

join:2006-10-09
Providence, RI

Re: Not a concern yet

Quit whining dude. You should be happy you even get a $40 coupon. Seriously it isn't that big of a deal. If you can't afford a $9 box then you should be worried about other things besides tv. And no, this isn't one of those "It's just the principal..." situations sorry.
jc100

join:2002-04-10

Re: Not a concern yet

I can afford 9 dollars. I just think its crap everyone has to go out and get this junk. Now if it was 30 or 40 dollars, I would pass for a while. However, I'm sure I can live with 9. My sentiment still stands, like it or not. The profited and said profit should be returned to tax payers.. O that's right, it isn't our money anymore once they collect it.. (sarcasm).
openbox9

join:2004-01-26
Alexandria, VA
·AT&T Southeast

Re: Not a concern yet

said by jc100 See Profile :

I just think its crap everyone has to go out and get this junk.
Nobody is forcing your to "go out and get this junk". You can choose not to spend 2 minutes requesting a coupon and $9 to purchase a converter.

IDJK

@embarqhsd.net
Boy JC100 you are going to be pissed when you get your coupon and find that it expires in 90 days from ship date- so you can't wait too long to buy.
wierdo

join:2001-02-16
Tulsa, OK
·Future Nine Corpor..
·Teliax VOIP

said by jc100 See Profile :

the system I refer to is the FCC and the PUBLIC AIRWAYS which tax payers funded and owned. That system. Since they made money OFF OUR TAXES, said money should be returned to us in form of absolute free converter boxes. After all, American's funded it. While T.V. isn't a necessity, nor was selling off this spectrum either.
You seem to misunderstand. Aside from a few public television networks (usually PBS affiliated), your tax dollars haven't paid for the capital outlays to set up television stations. The only thing your tax dollars were used for was to coordinate the frequency assignments. IOW, the stations aren't hanging from the government teat like so many other industries from whom we get absolutely nothing.

The government is not funding the transition for these stations, even ones with small budgets who can hardly afford to switch to digital. Should the government be paying the transition costs for the stations? I sure don't think so. I think the coupons are more than generous.

In essence, what I'm saying boils down to "funded no, owned yes." Epic fail on your part, really.
--
It's wierdo, not weirdo. Yes, I know that's not the 'proper' spelling of the similar english language word.
jc100

join:2002-04-10

Re: Not a concern yet

You seem to have failed at every step of your logic. The FCC is publicly funded and owns the airways. Said airways are PUBLIC PROPERTY. Yet, the FCC has FORCED private businesses to switch over. This wasn't a voluntary switch over. While we DO NOT own the stations, WE THE PUBLIC own the airways in which they use. Being the FCC (PUBLIC ENTITY) is forcing said stations (PRIVATE) to switch, we should be given the ability to get our stations at no cost. After all, I don't recall the stations wanting to do it? I recall the FCC (PUBLICLY OWNED) forcing this agenda.
openbox9

join:2004-01-26
Alexandria, VA
·AT&T Southeast

said by jc100 See Profile :

Hah stop future tax hikes.
I didn't say stop, I said minimize.
said by jc100 See Profile :

Back to the topic, the system I refer to is the FCC and the PUBLIC AIRWAYS which tax payers funded and owned. That system. Since they made money OFF OUR TAXES, said money should be returned to us in form of absolute free converter boxes. After all, American's funded it. While T.V. isn't a necessity, nor was selling off this spectrum either.
The taxpayers don't fund the "public airways". However, we have been funding the FCC since 1934 so by that argument the Fed should have purchased your original television. BTW, this isn't the first spectrum auction by the FCC.
hottboiinnc
ME

join:2003-10-15
Cleveland, OH
the box costs roughly $40 after taxes on the box at Best Buy. Thats the cheapest with coupon.

You also only have 90 days to use the coupon after that you lose it and can't get a new one.

n2jtx

join:2001-01-13
Glen Head, NY
·Optimum Online

said by jc100 See Profile :

Yes man, get get get. Takes money to buy things and some of us aren't independently wealthy or have the means to go and waste money on extras. I'll just wait and see if the box goes down in price. I imagine right now that 40 dollar coupon is only a partial cost of the box. Therefore, hopefully in a year itll be cheaper.
The Magnavox converter is $49.95 before tax at Wal*Mart. Using the government coupon it wound up costing me about $11. It works like a charm.

I suspect as we get closer to February 17, 2009, they will get cheaper but I would not expect to see less than $29.95.
--
I support the right to keep and arm bears.

en102
Canadian, eh?

join:2001-01-26
Valencia, CA
·RoadRunner Cable
·DSL EXTREME


1 edit

Re: Not a concern yet

I got the RCA HD converter $47.95 + taxes.
I've been able to get 24 HD channels with a Phillips set of amplified rabbit ears
»www.home-improvement-superstore.···p=807386
I've used up my 2 coupons already
I may just cut my DirecTv altogether.
--
Canada = Hollywood North

djrobx

join:2000-05-31
Valencia, CA

Re: Not a concern yet

Ooh you're in a lucky "hot" spot of Valencia. I can't get one channel!

Beware before you cancel DirecTV - ABC's signal is hit and miss.

-- Rob

en102
Canadian, eh?

join:2001-01-26
Valencia, CA
·RoadRunner Cable
·DSL EXTREME

Re: Not a concern yet

Yeah - I don't have ABC or FOX
I do get a lot though... I just put the rabbit ears at a 'good' spot on my roof, and hit 26 OTA
Also to note: antenna direction is VERY specific (ie. 99 degrees here) - make note of the direction from antennaweb.org, also, use a GOOD antenna - do not try the RCA indoor/outdoor - POS.
A slight turn in position will lose many channels.

Interestingly enough, I get analog ABC very good, buy no ABC HD.

2.1 KCBS
4.1 KNBC
4.2 Weather (local)
4.4 RawNews
5.1 KLTA
9.1 KCAL9
30.1 ION
30.2 QUBO
30.3 ION LIFE
30.4 WORSHIP
34.1 KMEX
44.1 KXLA
44.2 KVMD
50.1 KOCE
50.2 KOCE
50.3 DAYS
50.4 KOCE
54.1 KAZA
56.1 KDOC
56.2 KDOC
56.3 BVM
57.1 KJLA
57.2 KMVD
57.4 LATV

I've also had 62.1 and 62.2.
--
Canada = Hollywood North

koolman2
Premium
join:2002-10-01
Anchorage, AK
The only problem with this is that the coupon will expire 90 days after mailing.
--
Now typed solely on DSK (Dvorak Simplified Keyboard).

digiblur
Got Sipura?
Premium
join:2002-06-03
Louisiana

Re: Not a concern yet

The Echostar boxes due out this summer will be $40.

If your coupon expires I'm sure a neighbor or relative won't mind getting them for you.

OTA Digital TV is a wonderful thing. I'm still shocked that out in the boonies you can throw up a simple antenna and pick up a bunch of SD and HD channels for free on the HDTV set.
--
Make your Sipura/PAP2 speak. »www.voipurize.com
SouthWest Louisiana PC Users Group »www.swlapcug.com

supergirl

join:2007-03-20
Pensacola, FL
WalMart has them for $39.99. Free with the coupon.

roc5955
Premium
join:2005-11-26
Rosendale, NY
·RoadRunner Cable

Here Here!
I concur. The airwaves are PUBLIC property, and should they change the method of delivery, they should either revert back to analog, or give everyone free converter boxes for each and every television they possess. WE THE PEOPLE pay the FCC to look out for OUR interests, NOT those of the corporate elite.
--
"Understanding is a three-edged sword."

yolarry

join:2007-12-29
Creston, WV
·HughesNet Satellit..

Re: Not a concern yet

said by roc5955 See Profile :

Here Here!
I concur. The airwaves are PUBLIC property, and should they change the method of delivery, they should either revert back to analog, or give everyone free converter boxes for each and every television they possess. WE THE PEOPLE pay the FCC to look out for OUR interests, NOT those of the corporate elite.
and FCC should give us the freedom to boost our wi-fi higher then ever.

anon439828

@in.us

Re: Not a concern yet

Its a public spectrum that everyone can use isnt it... you have the right to amplify your signal as you see fit... There are kits out there to do this...

koolman2
Premium
join:2002-10-01
Anchorage, AK

Re: Not a concern yet

Nope, you have to follow the FCC regulations on power output.
--
Now typed solely on DSK (Dvorak Simplified Keyboard).
jc100

join:2002-04-10
Exactly. The FCC owns the signals. It's the FCC, NOT THE STATIONS, who opted to impose this change. It was not voluntary. The FCC MANDATED this to occur in order to continue to use THEIR AIRWAYS.

roc5955
Premium
join:2005-11-26
Rosendale, NY
·RoadRunner Cable

Re: Not a concern yet

said by jc100 See Profile :

Exactly. The FCC owns the signals. It's the FCC, NOT THE STATIONS, who opted to impose this change. It was not voluntary. The FCC MANDATED this to occur in order to continue to use THEIR AIRWAYS.
The FCC owns NOTHING. The airwaves belong to WE THE PEOPLE! In the last 28 years, our country has been for sale to the highest bidder and is becoming one of us the corporations, whereas before 1980, it was WE THE PEOPLE.
--
"Understanding is a three-edged sword."

Greg_Z
Premium
join:2001-08-08
Springfield, IL
They are giving "Free" boxes. That is what the Coupons are for.
ISurfTooMuch

join:2007-04-23
Tuscaloosa, AL

Just some info, FWIW.

If you've ordered the coupons now, you won't get until next year to wait and see what happens. The coupons expire 90 days after they're mailed, and once they expire, you can't order new ones.

However, you may not have to wait long. From a CNET article I read not long ago, the box that EchoStar will be releasing should cost $40. If that's true, then the coupon should cover it. I believe the new name for it is the DISH Network TVPal.

As for how the box performs, I got a DigitalStream box a few weeks ago to hook up to my dad's TV, which was connected to an outside antenna with a rotor. I can't tell you how it will perform for you, but I will say this. The box is very forgiving of a weak signal, but only to a point. What you hear about the characteristics of digital signal degradation is very true. You'll either get a great signal or none at all, with a very small area of partly usable signal in between. However, all the boxes I've read about will have an on-screen signal meter to help you adjust your antenna for the best signal. If you're close to the station, then you can get a good signal under almost any circumstances, but as you get farther away, that little meter can really help you out.

Also, the digital subchannels can be interesting. Many stations use them for weather programming or live radar, but some will bring in network feeds that aren't available on another station in the area. One that I really want to see is the Retro Television Network, which is very much like what TV Land used to be when it first launched. Some of the PBS stations and statewide networks are making good use of their subchannels by adding specialty channels, such as PBS Kids and Create. I think many stations are still trying to figure out how to program these channels, so expect to see a lot of experimentation.
cerone

join:2001-10-28
Hialeah, FL
The rabbit ears connect to the new converter then the converter connects to the TV. maybe you might need to continue to play the rabbit ear game but maybe not as much.

TominVA

@cox.net
Boxes are already on sale here. About $49. If folks don't know about this, well, too bad. They've been warned for a LONG time. It's called progress.
flyingjoey

join:2005-11-07
Jersey City, NJ
Either upgrade or get left behind... Simple as that!

I am just wondering... if the people that are still using rabbit ears also walk around with a club, live in cages and hunt their food.
ISurfTooMuch

join:2007-04-23
Tuscaloosa, AL

Re: Not a concern yet

said by flyingjoey See Profile :

Either upgrade or get left behind... Simple as that!

I am just wondering... if the people that are still using rabbit ears also walk around with a club, live in cages and hunt their food.
No. Many people in rural areas get TV from antennas (but often rooftop antennas and not rabbit ears) because that's the only way they can receive local stations. Yes, satellite is available, but stations from all markets aren't carried, and, in many cases, because of the way markets are defined, people can't subscribe to receive local stations via satellite that they can get just fine over the air. And if you want any kind of local programming such as news, sports, or weather, you have to tune in to a local station. People in these rural areas will often subscribe to satellite for cable channels and use an antenna to receive local stations. And you'd be surprised at how many you can sometimes get. My parents lived in an area between three markets, and they could get 14 channels using a rooftop antenna. They broke down like this:

2 ABC
3 CBS
2 NBC
2 PBS
2 Fox
2 My Network TV
1 TBN

And with digital, add another Fox station, since one of the ABC stations airs Fox on one of its digital subchannels.

For a sports fan, it was great because the stations often carried different games from their parent networks, so you could often choose between quite a few college and pro games on the weekends.
Rocketbob

join:2006-06-08
Stillman Valley, IL

The coupons are only good for 90 days. I purchased a box and the digital signal provides a better picture overall. No need
to adjust the rabbit ears.

djrobx

join:2000-05-31
Valencia, CA
The luddites that frequent a site dedicated to an emerging technology continue to fascinate me.

-- Rob
jc100

join:2002-04-10

Re: Not a concern yet

So do the people who make comments like yours. I bet you don't see the rationale of how the FCC owns these airways and are FORCIBLY making stations switch. This wasn't a voluntary switch either. The FCC being public funded owns said public airways. YET, it is mandating stations change over. So yes, MY POINT STANDS.
travelguy

join:1999-09-03
Santa Fe, NM

said by jc100 See Profile :

I am still waiting until close to the date to see what those boxes run come 2009. I have put in my order for the coupon so we shall see what happens anyway.
You do understand that the coupons are time limited, right? They expire 90 days after being issued, so if you ordered them now you will need to use them by August...
qworster

join:2001-11-25
Los Angeles, CA
·DSL EXTREME
·Brand X Internet
·RoadRunner Cable
·Vonage


1 edit
said by jc100 See Profile :

I am one of those unlucky people with rabbit ears. I am not disinterested but nor do I feel like being forced to shell out money on a converter. I am still waiting until close to the date to see what those boxes run come 2009. I have put in my order for the coupon so we shall see what happens anyway. On a side note, I can't say I enjoy rabbit ears but the same token, I don't know if I really enjoy having to buy a box to receive a signal. I guess it will depend if this box eliminates the headache of moving the ears around for a signal . I havent done much research into how these boxes work yet.
GET THE BOX! You wind up getting MANY more channels. Here in Hollywood with nothing but a two foot piece of Cat 5 wire as an antenna, I get over 50 channels! Why? because most all TV stations broadcast digital on multiple channels. For example the ION affiliate here (channel 30) broadcasts children's programming (Qubo) 24/7 on their 30-2 channel. My kids LOVE it!

GOLFnSUN
Enjoy the sun
Premium
join:2002-03-03
Avalon, NJ
·Sprint Mobile Broa..
·Comcast

No matter what; some will never get the word


What happened to my TV shows ?
Some people will just never get the word no matter how many times they are told. And some, even when told, still won't understand it. So, when the analog switches off next February, there will be calls to congress and newspapers from SHOCKED viewers that they didn't know this would happen and how could the government ever let this disaster befall them. And there will be the usual groups claiming that people just don't care about the poor & disadvantaged among us.
--
My BLOG .. .. Internet News .. .. My Web Page

pnh102
Reptiles Are Cuddly And Pretty
Premium
join:2002-05-02
Mount Airy, MD

Re: No matter what; some will never get the word

Riots and blood in the streets!
Skippy25

join:2000-09-13
Hazelwood, MO

Re: No matter what; some will never get the word

At least it will get them outside again.

pnh102
Reptiles Are Cuddly And Pretty
Premium
join:2002-05-02
Mount Airy, MD
·Comcast

Re: No matter what; some will never get the word

said by Skippy25 See Profile :

At least it will get them outside again.
Out... what?
--
This isn't fair! I was only supposed to hate just ONE presidential candidate!
hurfy
Premium
join:2002-08-06
Spokane, WA

Do other stations not do the incessant reminders of this that ours do here? Damn scrollng messages in the middle of shows like it is some kind of emergency broadcast :/ Public service announcements every 30 minutes or so, etc.

How anyone affected can't get the message is way beyond me. Most of the messages are pretty clear and specific.

I am already sick of it. Do the digital channels not show these please?? Hell i am ready to switch now if i can get away from the stupid reminders 24/7

The only problem i have is that i probably lose ABC since they put their transmitter 90 degrees away from everyone else. The cheap boxes don't seem to pass-thru the low-power analog which is in the direction of my antenna that works better than the real ABC station.
patcat88

join:2002-04-05
Jamaica, NY

Re: No matter what; some will never get the word

Tough luck, FCC requires 3 times an hour for OTA, and it also requires cable companies to run ads. Do some googling for the exact FCC order.

mod_wastrel

join:2008-03-28

Vast wasteland

The best thing that could happen to most people is if they could never watch any TV at all. Less than a tenth of 1% (if that) of what's on is of any worth.

See 14 replies to this post
rid0617

join:2003-07-20
Greer, SC

Why should I spend money

I'm required to spend money even with the coupons to continue watching a perfectly good television because our greedy FCC wanted to sell the frequency spectrum? I think not.

See 10 replies to this post

dadkins
Can you do Blu?
Premium,MVM
join:2003-09-26
Hercules, CA
·Comcast


1 edit

Basic/Standard Analog Cable...

... is going to go away too!

One by one, Comcast is going to start removing channels from the analog linups(Basic and Standard - no box) subs.

Here... 11, 15, and 66 have already went to the digital only lineup(TVGuide, CSPAN2, and Hallmark).

Going to have to get a box(or two)...
--
Think outside the Fox... Opera

TK Junk Mail
Go ahead, make my day

join:2006-07-30
Ocean Gate, NJ

Re: Basic/Standard Analog Cable...

Does anyone know what the best converter box to get is? Do they all have an RF modulator built in? My gaming TV is big so I want to keep it. But the TV is pretty old and I currenty have an RF modulator hooked up.
TACSPEED
Premium
join:2001-04-14
Tacoma, WA

Re: Basic/Standard Analog Cable...

If I were to buy one, I would get one that has both the NTSC and ATSC tuners.

As some of the low power stations will not be going digital.
cornelius785

join:2006-10-26
Worcester, MA
i sort of have a feeling that the cable providers will say the 'best' solution is to spend more money every month to get their cable box.

vbasic

@safepages.com

Based on all the reviews I read the Zenith DTT900 is the best. That's what I bought for my old TVs and they work great. They used a metal box instead of plastic with excellent ventilation slots. The picture quality is equal to DVD and has fast response. There is a RF cable included for older sets.

»www.afterdawn.com/hardware/revie···h_dtt900
modemsurfer

join:2001-12-11
Woodridge, IL

Comcast DTV

I've also confirmed this recently with two different technicians. One at work and one at my house.

The analog "free" stuff that some people are able to sneak without a filter on the line for the basic line up will be unavailable. Just like the analog not being broadcast over the air. Comcast will stop broadcasting in analog on their lines. Digital only will be the way they are going.

So, your right. Going to need to get a box or two from Comcast. I know that the first one is "free" from them. The others are a few bucks a month to rent.

See 6 replies to this post

Jwobot

join:2002-08-14
Sterling Heights, MI
·WOW Internet and C..


4 edits

Will it work even if you have a digital tuner?

Do you still get a picture with a Digital signal when you are far away from the broadcasting tower.

Like with analog on how you still get the signal. It just comes in fuzzy looking.

Would be nice to know if I'm going to be able to watch TV when I'm at deer camp or rural campgrounds.

Another question. Does anyone know any converter boxs that will pass digital and analog signles. Canada does not switch over untill 2011.
jervin123

join:2005-04-14
Philadelphia, PA

Re: Will it work even if you have a digital tuner?

With DTV it comes in pixelated (black bits and pieces missing) and the audio will break up because the digital convertor isn't receiving all of the data.

mod_wastrel

join:2008-03-28
·magicjack.com

said by Jwobot See Profile :

Does anyone know any converter boxs that will pass digital and analog signles.
The ones with an asterisk [pass analog]:

»https://www.ntiadtv.gov/cecb_list.cfm

(Subject to change)

Jwobot

join:2002-08-14
Sterling Heights, MI

Re: Will it work even if you have a digital tuner?

Thanks jervin123 & mod_wastrel.
Mr Matt

join:2008-01-29
Eustis, FL
·Comcast
·Embarq

One thing you will not see on a satellite system during rain fade is a flashing picture. In the case of DTV signal fade causes pixelation and in some cases a freezing and flashing picture. These problems were observed during early tests of the ATSC System.

Please go to this website, it explains the converter box program. It also lists various converter boxes and the features that they offer. Enjoy.
»https://www.dtv2009.gov/
wierdo

join:2001-02-16
Tulsa, OK
·Future Nine Corpor..
·Teliax VOIP

said by Jwobot See Profile :

Do you still get a picture with a Digital signal when you are far away from the broadcasting tower.
Several stations that I can hardly get in analog (very fuzzy at best) come in great on digital, just with occasional momentary dropouts. I'll take the one second of no picture every few minutes over the almost no picture and almost no sound.

Thanks to the error correction built in, you really only need to receive about 80% of the bits being sent for your receiver to reconstruct the whole stream.
--
It's wierdo, not weirdo. Yes, I know that's not the 'proper' spelling of the similar english language word.
Mr Matt

join:2008-01-29
Eustis, FL
·Comcast
·Embarq

The FCC and Feds cannot learn from experience.

When the UHF Band was opened in the early 1950's the cost of a Television with a UHF tuner was outrageously expensive when compared to a TV with VHF only. Many of the first UHF Stations that went on the air went out of business because not enough consumers purchased TV Sets with UHF tuners. The Feds finally fixed the problem when they made it mandatory that all TV Sets sold after a certain date include a UHF Tuner.

The Feds and the FCC knew there would be a problem with the transition to DTV and failed to mandate that all TV Sets include ATSC Tuners as well as NTSC Tuners shortly after the transition to digital was scheduled. This is another example of Government malfeasance and incompetence. American Taxpayers are paying the price for this failure to plan for a smooth transition to digital service.

There may have been a sinister motive for not mandating inclusion of ATSC tuners in all TV Sets. During early tests of DTV testers observed that the digital signal did not produce the same results as an analog signal. When an NTSC signal fades the picture gets snowy. When an ATSC signal fades below a certain level the picture goes black like a satellite signal during rain fade.

I at one time lived in an area in the fringe area of New York City. At that location while I was able to receive VHF Signals I could not receive UHF Signals. Many homeowners that do not have cable or satellite service will loose access to over the air television permanently once the transition is completed.
openbox9

join:2004-01-26
Alexandria, VA
·AT&T Southeast

Re: The FCC and Feds cannot learn from experience.

said by Mr Matt See Profile :

The Feds and the FCC knew there would be a problem with the transition to DTV and failed to mandate that all TV Sets include ATSC Tuners as well as NTSC Tuners shortly after the transition to digital was scheduled.
It is a mandate and has been for over a year now.
Mr Matt

join:2008-01-29
Eustis, FL
·Comcast
·Embarq

Re: The FCC and Feds cannot learn from experience.

The schedule and mandate that I was referring to was established in April of 1997 and set the dates for the transition from NTSC to ATSC. I would think that the phase in of televisions with ATSC Tuners should have began by January of 1998 or at the latest January of 1999.
openbox9

join:2004-01-26
Alexandria, VA

Re: The FCC and Feds cannot learn from experience.

I agree. Then maybe we wouldn't have had to postpone the auction and this whole mess would already be behind us.
patcat88

join:2002-04-05
Jamaica, NY

said by Mr Matt See Profile :


I at one time lived in an area in the fringe area of New York City. At that location while I was able to receive VHF Signals I could not receive UHF Signals. Many homeowners that do not have cable or satellite service will loose access to over the air television permanently once the transition is completed.
So true. Same thing when analog cellphone service was shut down 2 months ago.

81399672
Premium
join:2006-05-17
Los Angeles, CA

I refuse to switch

My tv works better and i see no reason to switch. Looks like time to take us government to court.
--
i am not a lawyer but I do play one on the internet

pnh102
Reptiles Are Cuddly And Pretty
Premium
join:2002-05-02
Mount Airy, MD
·Comcast

Re: I refuse to switch

said by 81399672 See Profile :

My tv works better and i see no reason to switch. Looks like time to take us government to court.
Wouldn't it just be cheaper to buy a converter?
--
This isn't fair! I was only supposed to hate just ONE presidential candidate!

81399672
Premium
join:2006-05-17
Los Angeles, CA

Re: I refuse to switch

said by pnh102 See Profile :

said by 81399672 See Profile :

My tv works better and i see no reason to switch. Looks like time to take us government to court.
Wouldn't it just be cheaper to buy a converter?
Yes much cheaper

pnh102
Reptiles Are Cuddly And Pretty
Premium
join:2002-05-02
Mount Airy, MD
·Comcast

Re: I refuse to switch

said by 81399672 See Profile :

said by pnh102 See Profile :

Wouldn't it just be cheaper to buy a converter?
Yes much cheaper
Cheaper than $20? Best Buy sells this converter for $60. After your coupon is applied that comes out to $20.

»www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp···95190393

$20 costs more than the gas needed to drive to the court house.
--
This isn't fair! I was only supposed to hate just ONE presidential candidate!

GeekJedi
RF is Good For You
Premium
join:2001-06-21
Mukwonago, WI
clubs:
I agree, because the ability to watch television is guaranteed in the Constitution.
Kearnstd
Elf Wizard
Premium
join:2002-01-22
Mullica Hill, NJ
good luck with that case. there are no laws saying you have to be able to get TV. and most newish TVs have an ATSC tuner anyway.
--
[65 Arcanist]Filan(High Elf) Zone: Broadband Reports

pnh102
Reptiles Are Cuddly And Pretty
Premium
join:2002-05-02
Mount Airy, MD

Lame

The FCC should have done this years ago!

Noah Vail
Premium
join:2004-12-10
Lorton, VA
·RoadRunner Cable

Snowy Airwaves give you So Much More.

said by mod_wastrel See Profile :

The best thing that could happen to most people is if they could never watch any TV at all. Less than a tenth of 1% (if that) of what's on is of any worth.
Hear Hear.
My last TV went in 1992, the year between my 1st and 2nd child. Of my 5, the youngest two are 6yo and all five have largely grown up in an advertising free home.

We do download some selected tv shows. via bittorrent. Those are mostly overseas ones that aren't available for purchase locally. When they are available; we buy the DVDs.

We have our coupons and plan to buy a box one day. If for no other reason to have the equip on hand if I ever find a need for one. I may not use it for exactly the intended purpose...

NotV

woody7
Premium
join:2000-10-13
Torrance, CA

hmmm....

Got two of the coupons, and they are good for only 90 days. If some one needs one IM me and I'll send you one if you are going to use it.
--
BlooMe
EPS

join:2008-02-13
Hingham, MA

Wow...

With all this, you'd think television was a basic human right or something... Certainly the "right to watch TV" seems to be taken a lot more seriously than many others.
patcat88

join:2002-04-05
Jamaica, NY

Re: Wow...

If there is no TV, there will be millions of people with nothing to do, so they will riot, loot, and rape in the streets. Analog must stay.
TheRainMan

join:2001-05-11
Santa Fe, TX

lol

Well i know this is going to be out there but here a hole in a bucket. I dunno wuts going on really but 2012 is prolly going to have some crazy affects on our lives someway. i think the government is finally stopped the last media voice. more controled systems will emerge. sounds to me that the government is prepareing to control what we see how we see and why we see it. i think all the mumbo jumbo astrolgy god bs is moronic to even beleive. nature is at simple work here. the sun already had its poles shift back in 2000. which only means the earth will shift next. I also find it funny that were building the new bridge from russia to canada to alaska if im not mistaken. btw theres proof the government has been stockpiling supplies but sources wont release data due to life situations of course. sam doesnt play ehh? sence the tv is now controled thruough them completly in 2009.

just a little idea ive drawnbtw this ties ken lay goerge bushes admintration, martha stweret and all the energyshareholders in this country. 2012 will be fun
steelyken

join:2002-03-04
Plainfield, IN

Re: lol

Looks like you will need a converter box in order to continue receiving transmissions from your home planet.

Also wouldn't hurt to put a few more pieces of foil on your hat to pull those signals in clearer.

old_dawg
"I Know Noting..."

join:2001-09-22
Westminster, MD
Hmm, what would be most effective here, a spelling/grammar primer or tin foil hat ?
mgraves1

join:2004-04-05
Houston, TX
·Junction Networks

Raising public awareness

I'm in the vendor end of the broadcast business. Some stations are making better efforts at informing the public than others. The FCC should have forced the issue long ago but it has proven a startling lack of awareness of the facts on the ground.

WWL in News Orleans is running a lower third banner display several times a day. It's a running countdown clock to the Feb 2009 analog turn-off. They use gear we sold them to do this.

They only run this display on the existing SD analog channel. No need to run it in the HD/digital channel...that one will remain after the transition.

Michael
--
Michael Graves
Houston TX
»blog.mgraves.org
qworster

join:2001-11-25
Los Angeles, CA
·DSL EXTREME
·Brand X Internet
·RoadRunner Cable
·Vonage


4 edits

Flash Cutting...

One thing that many TV broadcasters are doing is flash cutting. Here's what it is.

After 2/19/2009, TV broadcasters have to turn ONE channel back in to the FCC. For many of them, the DTV channel they got is inferior to their NTSC (analog) channel. Other TV stations got DTV channels out of the 'core' allotments. The core is channels 2-51, but for example CBS channel 2 in Los Angeles is operating a DTV channel in the sixties.

Many of these broadcasters plan to do a 'flash cut'. What this means is that they will sign off the air with their analog TV signal and a few hours later sign BACK on that channel with a DTV signal. The DTV channel they were running along with the analog will be the one turned back to the FCC.

I know for a fact that all the high band VHF stations (channels 7-13) in Los Angeles are going to do this-they have already notified the FCC of their intention to do so.
This is because DTV works best in the high VHF band (channels 13-7 in that order).

The problem is, if you have a DTV set (or a DTV converter) you're going to have to program its channels again after the transition or many/most of your channels will be gone.

They call this a flash cut because the TV stations plan to do just that-cut from analog to digital in a 'flash'.

Needless to say, there will be a lot of TV engineers hard at work converting transmitters the night of the DTV transition.

CylonRed
Premium,MVM
join:2000-07-06
Bloom County

I still need to order my coupon

I have one TV that is OTA and needs a box unless something were to happen to that TV - then maybe get a small LCD and tunder and get OTA HD.... hmmmmmmmm
--
Brian

Free health care is 100% a misnomer - it is not free and never will be free.
touchtone561

join:2007-12-10
Lake Worth, FL
·AT&T Southeast

What about folks with Emergency portables?

I have a very nice water resistant 4" portable AC/DC color LCD TV that i use during severe weather situations here in the Southeast. You know blackouts due to thunderstorm, hurricanes, tornadoes, etc. Trust me - it has proven very useful.

So can somebody tell me of a Digital TV portable solution?
Battery powered and less than $100 USD
Forums » DTV Transition: This Is Only a Test


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