directv just added new HD channels

[Mr D]

her ein NY they splitted the versus n golf channel G4 changed to 366 n now we have pbs channel 13 in HD nice finally, but no travel chanel hd yet

[JJJBBB]

?
.

[HoosierBoy]

Chicago WTTW-DT is now active also.

[Piratefan98]

her ein NY they splitted the versus n golf channel G4 changed to 366 n now we have pbs channel 13 in HD nice finally, but no travel chanel hd yet


I don't think I've ever seen a sentence begin with "her ein NY they splitted"

I think I need more coffee! :lol:

Jeff

[reweiss]

I think it's German for "Here in NY" or "I need typing lessons" :)

[Pepster]

I think it's German for "Here in NY" or "I need typing lessons" :)

G4 has actually been moved to Channel 310. In addition to that, Current TV "CRNT" has moved from Channel 366 to Channel 358.

[reweiss]

Here is a list of what seem's different in the guide this morning:
306-1 HD Net (D11) alt
310 G4 TV
354 G4 TV 354
358 Current
366 Current TV 366
384 PBSNET
603 VERSUS HD
605 The Golf Channel HD

nothing on my list has been confirmed as of yet...

[stoutman]

WXXI PBS HD in Rochester:)

[betterdan]

WHRO PBS HD is now up for Norfolk Va

[Mike Bertelson]

WXXI PBS HD in Rochester:)

WHRO PBS HD is now up for Norfolk Va
Anybody else have PBS in HD?

Mike

[hdfan1]

Versus and Golf now seperate channels in HD but I am getting no sound in the Versus HD channel.

[betterdan]

Yep no sound here either for Versus HD

[Malibu13]

WHRO PBS HD is now up for Norfolk Va

A Welcomed addition. :)

[bluegras]

good morning when could we see the following PBS Stations go HD

WYCC Channel 20 PBS Chicago,IL
WYIN Channel 56 PBS Gary,IN and Chicago,IL

[DCSholtis]

No PBS in Cleveland yet. Looking at January 1 timeframe for one of our local PBS' not sure about the other.

[bluegras]

i went through my lineup and those channels were changed this morning

[iceturkee]

no pbs hd in orlando/daytona/melbourne.

[wolverine318]

I can confirm we have pbs HD in detroit.

[Stuart Sweet]

Folks, if you have a new HD channel to report, please PM me and I'll get it added to the news item on the front page. I need the city and call letters.

[Steve]

Our local PBS affilliate (thirteen HD) is alive and well in NY. /steve

[jdh8668]

Not sure if this has been mentioned earlier, but I noticed "TheN" is on 303 and TvLand was moved to 304.

[Sixto]

PBS HD (13) up in NY!

[LameLefty]

Neither of the Nashville area PBS stations (8 and 22) are available in HD yet.

[bobnielsen]

No PBS HD in Seattle, although KCTS shows up in the transponder list.

[pfueri]

her ein NY they splitted the versus n golf channel G4 changed to 366 n now we have pbs channel 13 in HD nice finally, but no travel chanel hd yet
I live in the orlando market .What new channels!I have yet to see a new channel today .The list of channels on this thread are SD except the golf and verses are HD

[syphix]

KTCA - PBS 2 in Minneapolis is live and active in HD. Nice!!! :up:

(PM sent to Stuart)

[bjamin82]

WPBT, PBS Channel 2 is now HD in Fort Lauderdale/MIAMI

Also noticed some HD Channels actually have Icons instead of Big letters in the top left of the channel bar... i.e. Fox News... maybe I just noticed this and it has been there for a while... Discovery still does not have an Icon.

[DodgerKing]

Here in LA, KCET (PBS) 28 is now in HD as well,

[Darkscream]

Anyone know what is with 306-1 (HDN a).

Does not seem to ever have anything listed to be shown on it.

[Hutchinshouse]

Los Angeles KCET

THANKS DIRECTV


SWEET!

I wish I were home to watch it. Darn work! I think I feel the 24 hour flu coming on. :D

[apferrando]

Anyone know what is with 306-1 (HDN a).

Does not seem to ever have anything listed to be shown on it.

Dallas Mavericks games... been there for a few months now.

[DodgerKing]

Here is what was added:

New York WNET
Rochester WXXI
Norfolk WHRO
Chicago WTTW
Los Angeles KCET
Phoenix KAET

ETA:

Minneapolis KTCA
Fort Lauderdale/Miami WPBT
Portland KOPB
Detroit WTVS

[Darkscream]

Dallas Mavericks games... been there for a few months now.

Ah - Cool. Thanks.

[pfueri]

Los Angeles KCET

THANKS DIRECTV


SWEET!

I wish I were home to watch it. Darn work! I think I feel the 24 hour flu coming on. :D

Is KCET a PBS channel in LA.?If it is why are you so happy about a PBS channel?On my PBS channel that I get ota is a bunch of crap.

[syphix]

Here is what was added:

New York WNET
Rochester WXXI
Norfolk WHRO
Chicago WTTW
Los Angeles KCET
Phoenix KAET
You're missing a couple...

Minneapolis KTCA
Fort Lauderdale/Miami WPBT

[Stuart Sweet]

I think I have the complete list on the front page now...

[DodgerKing]

You're missing a couple...

Minneapolis KTCA
Fort Lauderdale/Miami WPBT

Thanks.

[syphix]

Both Versus HD and Golf Channel HD showing "SIGN OFF" in the guide listings...

[Hutchinshouse]

Is KCET a PBS channel in LA.?If it is why are you so happy about a PBS channel?On my PBS channel that I get ota is a bunch of crap.

Fortunately you’re not the benchmark/barometer for quality programming. :)

Plus HD crap is better than SD crap. :grin:

[Go Beavs]

Portland, Or has PBS in HD. The programming is different between the HD channel and the SD channel but it's nice to see it in the guide.

Sam

[sigma1914]

I live in the orlando market .What new channels!I have yet to see a new channel today .The list of channels on this thread are SD except the golf and verses are HD

Is KCET a PBS channel in LA.?If it is why are you so happy about a PBS channel?On my PBS channel that I get ota is a bunch of crap.

Calm down, geez. Some people enjoy PBS because it's very educational. Shows like Nova are very interesting...not "cra."

[Grentz]

Thx Directv! Finally get to watch PBS in HD w/o needing the AM21 ;)

[syphix]

As happy as I am to get PBS-HD, I wish they would have added the -2 subchannel instead. KTCA-DT 2-1 is the main PBS channel in Minneapolis, but only airs about 2.5 hours of HD each day. 2-2 is pure HD and is the PBS-HD channel of choice for local cable companies (in fact, 2-1 isn't even available via cable in HD).

EDIT: Looks like some changes coming to KTCA this month and in February...
http://www.tpt.org/program/digital_updates.html

I don't quite understand it...

Here's more for Minnesotans:
Subscribers to Direct TV will receive tpt 2 in High Definition, tpt LIFE and tpt MN (although the exact start date for carriage of tpt MN is not yet known.)

[DCSholtis]

As happy as I am to get PBS-HD, I wish they would have added the -2 subchannel instead. KTCA-DT 2-1 is the main PBS channel in Minneapolis, but only airs about 2.5 hours of HD each day. 2-2 is pure HD and is the PBS-HD channel of choice for local cable companies (in fact, 2-1 isn't even available via cable in HD).

EDIT: Looks like some changes coming to KTCA this month and in February...
http://www.tpt.org/program/digital_updates.html

I don't quite understand it...

Means they are converting all their local programming to the -1 subchannel and the HD PBS feed is going bye bye. That is what is happening with all PBS affiliates. Cleveland's PBS won't be finished with their conversion until 1/1/09 after that no more national PBS feed on their sub channel.

[Grentz]

As happy as I am to get PBS-HD, I wish they would have added the -2 subchannel instead. KTCA-DT 2-1 is the main PBS channel in Minneapolis, but only airs about 2.5 hours of HD each day. 2-2 is pure HD and is the PBS-HD channel of choice for local cable companies (in fact, 2-1 isn't even available via cable in HD).

EDIT: Looks like some changes coming to KTCA this month and in February...
http://www.tpt.org/program/digital_updates.html

I don't quite understand it...

Here's more for Minnesotans:

Yup, as of feb. the main channel will combine with the HD-sub channel so we will get much more HD on the main channel.

It will be weird too as they are taking down ch 17....have had it forever so it will be weird not having a 17!

I wonder if directv will add the 2-3 or 2-4 sub channels considering they currently have CH17 and CH2, but with the station changes CH17 will now be a sub channel of CH2.

[syphix]

Means they are converting all their local programming to the -1 subchannel and the HD PBS feed is going bye bye. That is what is happening with all PBS affiliates. Cleveland's PBS won't be finished with their conversion until 1/1/09 after that no more national PBS feed on their sub channel.Yep, looks like we got PBS-HD just in time...it'll happen in just 12 days. :) I take back my previous post. ;)

[pfueri]

Calm down, geez. Some people enjoy PBS because it's very educational. Shows like Nova are very interesting...not "cra."This would be big news if we did'nt have 100's of other channels that have the same or better shows than PBS.

[Grentz]

Yep, looks like we got PBS-HD just in time...it'll happen in just 12 days. :) I take back my previous post. ;)

Actually looks like it will not happen till Feb.

Look at your link, under 12/15 it still shows the SD and HD stations separated on 2-1 and 2-2 respectively, just switched to a simulcast (so they both show the same content).

Who knows, we will just have to see what really happens :p

[syphix]

Yup, as of feb. the main channel will combine with the HD-sub channel so we will get much more HD on the main channel.

It will be weird too as they are taking down ch 17....have had it forever so it will be weird not having a 17!Looks like the TPT2 and PBS-HD merge will happen this month. TPT Life and TPT MN will come to DirecTV in February (or beyond).

[syphix]

Actually looks like it will not happen till Feb.

Look at your link again, under 12/15 it still shows the SD and HD stations separated on 2-1 and 2-2 respectively.But it shows 2-2 being simulcast in HD, and 2-1 being standard def....the programming merge of TBT-HD and TBT-2 will occur on 12/15, it seems. Hopefully with more than 2.5 hours of HD per day. :)

[man_rob]

Congrats to the markets who finally got their PBS local in HD! It's a good start, late, but good.

[Sirshagg]

Very cool to get PBS, now if they could just add KAZT I'd be set for locals.

[bluegras]

i wish our other two pbs stations will switch over to HD

[Bob Coxner]

KWBU 34, Waco/Temple/Bryan is live in 1080i this morning.

Thanks DTV!

[sox junky]

Does anyone know if KQED in San Francisco went live with HD this morning? I'm traveling and cannot check it. Thanks

[dbsdave]

If it weren't for boston, there likely would be no public television....yet no pbs hd love here.

[miss_my_utv]

Does anyone know if KQED in San Francisco went live with HD this morning? I'm traveling and cannot check it. Thanks

I only see one channel 9 listed.

[PWenger]

Sigh...First, no Comcast Sportsnet, now no WHYY HD...

It's great to live in Philly...

Hopefully we are just in "soon" mode...

[loudo]

Anybody else have PBS in HD?

Mike
HD still only OTA, in Orlando market.

[Crow159]

Any word on when more local PBS will go online?

Baltimore has it's PBS HD station on the 103 sat in a test for a while now. I'm just wondering if we will get the love soon.

[Ice Runner]

A Welcomed addition. :)

Wish we also got WUNC-TV in HD as well.

[Wisegoat]

Here in LA, KCET (PBS) 28 is now in HD as well,

Anyone know if we will get KOCE 50, the Orange County PBS out of Huntington Beach? I get it full power on my OTA. We already get the SD version, so I am assuming that we will eventually.

Just curious, as they do things that are more related to where I live and I know my parents would watch. It is completely seperate and different than KCET, which is more LA focused.

[Doug Brott]

This would be big news if we did'nt have 100's of other channels that have the same or better shows than PBS.

Perhaps you didn't hear the clamoring for PBS-HD over the past few years .. I'm sure more than one person was happy with today's additions.

[blackhawkzone]

good morning when could we see the following PBS Stations go HD

WYCC Channel 20 PBS Chicago,IL
WYIN Channel 56 PBS Gary,IN and Chicago,IL

do either of these channels show any programs in hd?

I dont have an off air attenta hooked up, so I dont know.

Personally, I think that WCIU would be a bigger priority than those two because of the sports programing.

[VARTV]

Wish we also got WUNC-TV in HD as well.You'd think this would be a give-in since all the UNC-TV channels broadcast the same programming throughout the state...

[Balestrom]

According to the directv website in the local channel look up for Eastern Iowa zip code, I see they now have listed PBS/KIIN in HD.

I have also checked the channel guide for that zip code and it is also showing PBS listings for HD.

I am at work and cannot verify. Is there someone from Eastern Iowa who can confirm KIIN PBS is now available in HD?

[Darkscream]

According to the directv website in the local channel look up for Eastern Iowa zip code, I see they now have listed PBS/KIIN in HD.

I have also checked the channel guide for that zip code and it is also showing PBS listings for HD.

I am at work and cannot verify. Is there someone from Eastern Iowa who can confirm KIIN PBS is now available in HD?



It's been in HD for a few weeks now.


This is in the Cedar Rapids DMA.

[Balestrom]

It's been in HD for a few weeks now.


This is in the Cedar Rapids DMA.

Sorry, if this is old news. It hasn't been in my channel guide, even when I update favorites. Odd, but I could have missed.

Thanks... I will bow out of this thread! :D

[Newshawk]

One note-Since Mankato, MN shares KTCA with Minneapolis, they now have PBS in HD, too.

[Darkscream]

Sorry, if this is old news. It hasn't been in my channel guide, even when I update favorites. Odd, but I could have missed.

Thanks... I will bow out of this thread! :D



No Probs.

It's been in my guide for that long at least.
Not really sure when it started - it just kinda crept up on us.

[cdizzy]

Portland, Or has PBS in HD. The programming is different between the HD channel and the SD channel but it's nice to see it in the guide.

Sam


:D Wow, now this was a unexpected birthday present!

[dtv757]

WHRO PBS HD is now up for Norfolk Va
what channel i dont see it..

i went to 15 (Hr20) and it was the SD version on WHRO..

i went to 385?? and it said channel not purchased.

ok i see WHRO HD now..

[Thaedron]

Perhaps you didn't hear the clamoring for PBS-HD over the past few years .. I'm sure more than one person was happy with today's additions.

Doug is most definitely correct. Count me in that list.

[studdad]

I think it's German for "Here in NY" or "I need typing lessons" :)lol, it's early

[joebbaseball]

WXXI PBS HD in Rochester:)

So do you now get two WXXI feeds via D*? Or did they replace the one you were getting with the HD?
Joe

[Thaedron]

But it shows 2-2 being simulcast in HD, and 2-1 being standard def....the programming merge of TBT-HD and TBT-2 will occur on 12/15, it seems. Hopefully with more than 2.5 hours of HD per day. :)

Thanks for digging up the initial link Syphix! This is all goodness for PBS in MN. As to whether it happens this month or in Feb, either is fine, we've been waiting this long a little while longer doesn't matter.

[Pepster]

Doug is most definitely correct. Count me in that list.

I'm:) . Theoretically, I've had OTA (Phillips indoor rabbit ear type) access to my local PBS in HD station since I purchased my TV 1 1/2 years ago, but since I live in an apartment building with no antenna on the roof, and I live on the first floor, I haven't been able to get the PBS station to come in. The OTA tunability, yes I'm making up a word, is so touchy that no matter what I do, I lose some stations. I'd like some of the PBS sub-channels also, but at least I have something to work with.

[crawdad62]

I receive two different PBS channels. WTIU in Bloomington and WFYI in Indianapolis. Neither of which is in HD yet:(

I can't believe there's people that complain that PBS stations are in HD. Heck those were the first HD content I ever saw back when there wasn't much. Lots of great programming.

[JoeTheDragon]

do either of these channels show any programs in hd?

I dont have an off air attenta hooked up, so I dont know.

Personally, I think that WCIU would be a bigger priority than those two because of the sports programing.

comcast cable does not even have them in hd.

Weigel Broadcasting seams to be playing hard ball over HD on direct tv.

how about ch 50 my network tv / they are part of fox 32 / WFLD-TV

[kenmoo]

Just got an email from DirecTV Investor Services. Here's a small part.

Millions of viewers will be able to enjoy their favorite Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) programs in crystal clear HD as DIRECTV begins launching local public television stations in HD in markets across the country today.

DIRECTV, which has long been at the forefront of HD programming, continues its unprecedented expansion of HD with the launch of local public television stations in 14 markets and will continue to roll out additional markets through the end of the year and in 2009 -- ahead of the Feb. 17 digital transition.

Local PBS stations in HD are now available in the following markets: Cedar Rapids-Waterloo-Iowa City-Dubuque, Iowa; Chicago; Davenport, Iowa-Rock Island-Moline, Ill.; Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York, Norfolk-Newport News, Va.; Phoenix; Portland, Ore.; Rochester, N.Y.; and Waco-Temple-Bryan, Texas.

[Mertzen]

Our local PBS affilliate (thirteen HD) is alive and well in NY. /steve
Yup, just in time for this weekend's beg-a-thon. :lol:

[flipptyfloppity]

It's funny, the local HD station (KQED 9) has a bag-a-thon on right now, and yet they still didn't show up today. Maybe they'll miss this one?

[jpretguy]

wtvs channel 56 Detroit area PBS, live in 1080I !!!!!!!!!!! love it.:) :grin:

[aa9vi]

good morning when could we see the following PBS Stations go HD

WYCC Channel 20 PBS Chicago,IL
WYIN Channel 56 PBS Gary,IN and Chicago,IL

WYIN does not offer HD yet. They are in 480i on 56-1 and 56-2.
WYCC... good question. Most of their programs are in SD, so it might be a while.

[aa9vi]

comcast cable does not even have them in hd.

Weigel Broadcasting seams to be playing hard ball over HD on direct tv.

how about ch 50 my network tv / they are part of fox 32 / WFLD-TV

Communistcast does offer WTTW 11-1 if you plug in your cable to a digital cable ready TV, doesn't it? Haven't checked in a while.

Why is Weigel playing hardball? They don't offer HD yet either on either WWME or WMEU. Regarding WMEU, well that's a class-A station and at some point it may be added to the satellite rebroadcast, likely in 480i SD.

... and I bet we'll see WCIU before WPWR on satellite HD since they were sort of working on that during baseball season. So don't hold your breath on WPWR 50. Get an AM21, HR20, or H20 if you want the OTA HD.

[oldschoolecw]

So let me get this straight the only 2 new national channels we got in HD are the one that was one channel combined yesterday in VERSUS HD and The Golf Channel HD. My $140.00 + DirecTV bill :nono: is looking a lot heavier today, this is such BS. I can’t wait for Verizon FioS to hit my neck of the woods… I just can’t believe Directv didn’t give us in the Boston area PBS HD love:nono2:

[dhhaines]

Sigh...First, no Comcast Sportsnet, now no WHYY HD...

It's great to live in Philly...

Hopefully we are just in "soon" mode...

Depends on how "soon" soon is. :nono2:

Any idea why DirecTV couldn't get more markets online with PBS. There are a lot of smaller markets than the Philly DMA that got lit up today.

[tcusta00]

Depends on how "soon" soon is. :nono2:

Any idea why DirecTV couldn't get more markets online with PBS. There are a lot of smaller markets than the Philly DMA that got lit up today.

Maybe more are on the way and they didn't want to light them all up at once?

[Jasqid]

Depends on how "soon" soon is. :nono2:

Any idea why DirecTV couldn't get more markets online with PBS. There are a lot of smaller markets than the Philly DMA that got lit up today.

Our local PBS station is off air for 10 or 14 days while they upgrade the towers. That was before TG. I think they came back up last night. So if there are other markets still transitioning... I'm sure D* wont add them until they're complete.

[wxx]

No PBS HD in SW Florida.

[DRKnapp]

I'm glad to hear they split the Golf channel off on it's own!

Count me as another happy camper for PBS HD!! :biggthump

[T_N_T]

No PBS HD in the Nashville Area yet, we get WNPX-8 from Nashville,TN and WCTE-22 from Cookeville,TN

[Steve615]

Just got an email from DirecTV Investor Services. Here's a small part.

Millions of viewers will be able to enjoy their favorite Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) programs in crystal clear HD as DIRECTV begins launching local public television stations in HD in markets across the country today.

DIRECTV, which has long been at the forefront of HD programming, continues its unprecedented expansion of HD with the launch of local public television stations in 14 markets and will continue to roll out additional markets through the end of the year and in 2009 -- ahead of the Feb. 17 digital transition.

Local PBS stations in HD are now available in the following markets: Cedar Rapids-Waterloo-Iowa City-Dubuque, Iowa; Chicago; Davenport, Iowa-Rock Island-Moline, Ill.; Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami-Fort Lauderdale, Minneapolis-St. Paul, New York, Norfolk-Newport News, Va.; Phoenix; Portland, Ore.; Rochester, N.Y.; and Waco-Temple-Bryan, Texas.


I received the e-mail a little while ago too.
Here is the link to the full press release from DirecTV:

http://investor.directv.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=352047

[Sirshagg]

So let me get this straight the only 2 new national channels we got in HD are the one that was one channel combined yesterday in VERSUS HD and The Golf Channel HD. My $140.00 + DirecTV bill :nono: is looking a lot heavier today, this is such BS. I can’t wait for Verizon FioS to hit my neck of the woods… I just can’t believe Directv didn’t give us in the Boston area PBS HD love:nono2:
:group:

[pablo]

PBS HD (13) up in NY!

Woohoo! I'm at work so can't check but I assume this covers NJ too?

[oldschoolecw]

:group:

:D

[man_rob]

So let me get this straight the only 2 new national channels we got in HD are the one that was one channel combined yesterday in VERSUS HD and The Golf Channel HD. My $140.00 + DirecTV bill :nono: is looking a lot heavier today, this is such BS. I can’t wait for Verizon FioS to hit my neck of the woods… I just can’t believe Directv didn’t give us in the Boston area PBS HD love:nono2:


It does show that DirecTV can add a national channel while adding locals. (Even if in this case it is a sad, sad choice for a lone addition of a national channel.) The myth that they can't do both is now officially dispelled.

[lovswr]

Here is a list of what seem's different in the guide this morning:
306-1 HD Net (D11) alt
310 G4 TV
354 G4 TV 354
358 Current
366 Current TV 366
384 PBSNET
603 VERSUS HD
605 The Golf Channel HD

nothing on my list has been confirmed as of yet...

so are you saying that 384 is the National PBS feed?

[oldschoolecw]

so are you saying that 384 is the National PBS feed?

It can’t be, because I have PREMIER, HD Access and DIRECTV HD EXTRA PACK turned on and that channel dose not come in.

[dhhaines]

It does show that DirecTV can add a national channel while adding locals. (Even if in this case it is a sad, sad choice for a lone addition of a national channel.) The myth that they can't do both is now officially dispelled.

Oh come on now man_rob you know that it's all in the negotiations. ;)

[Lord Vader]

I think I have the complete list on the front page now...

Stu, FYI:

http://dtv.client.shareholder.com/releasedetail.cfm?ReleaseID=352047

DirecTV today rolled out PBS HD in several markets.

[man_rob]

Oh come on now man_rob you know that it's all in the negotiations. ;)

Well, we now know for sure that the lack of national channel additions is not because DirecTV is adding locals, as several others have suggested.

[dcowboy7]

Well, we now know for sure that the lack of national channel additions is not because DirecTV is adding locals, as several others have suggested.

maybe those people will have an explanation for it. :sure:

[syphix]

It can’t be, because I have PREMIER, HD Access and DIRECTV HD EXTRA PACK turned on and that channel dose not come in.It's most likely a DNS channel, along with the networks from NYC and LA. You won't get it unless you can't get your local PBS (at least in SD) from DirecTV or OTA.

[oldschoolecw]

Well, we now know for sure that the lack of national channel additions is not because DirecTV is adding locals, as several others have suggested.

I agree, I’ve tried to stay out of this mess on the HD topic but DirecTV is missing the edge that it only had for a few months. And I’m not happy, pay what ever it takes to get us our premiums in HD and then charge us like they all do. If it’s a fare deal you ask of us we’ll pay, if it’s not we’ll go else where…

[pablo]

Is there a list of channels that got the logo update? Anal, I know, sorry...

[Guesst925XTU]

her ein NYt


But your profile says you're in New Jersey...

[dcowboy7]

But your profile says you're in New Jersey...

nj....ny....its all the metro area....even the ny giants play in nj.

[dhhaines]

nj....ny....its all the metro area....even the ny giants play in nj.

Uhhhh no. Just the arm pit at the upper right! :) :rolleyes:

[Stuart Sweet]

:backtotop please

[rhipps]

WHRO PBS HD is now up for Norfolk Va

About freaking time. Now if they would just get Travel and DIY in HD, my holiday season wouild be complete:)

[Mr D]

sorry about the spelling this morning, i was running late to work, but u guys got the idea.

[loudo]

Not into PBS, but glad to see The Golf Channel and Versus each have their own channel now.

[Visman]

Channel 8 PBS-KUHT in Houston is 1080i HD

[dhhaines]

Not into PBS, but glad to see The Golf Channel and Versus each have their own channel now.

It'll help with the confusion during the NHL season to have them on separate channels, that's for sure.

[raoul5788]

About freaking time. Now if they would just get Travel and DIY in HD, my holiday season wouild be complete:)

I emailed Scripps about DIY in hd. They said they had no plans for it. :(

[Garyunc]

This is all great news but why is Direct TV dragging their feet on ESPNU in HD!! That is the only non hd channell left that I care about seeing in HD.

[doctor j]

Can abyone confirm than the Mankato MN DMA #199 is receiving PBS HD KTCA Channel 2 , which is Minneapolis-St Paul.
Mankato gets 3 of 4 networks from Minneapolis-St Paul.
Only the CBS KEYC Ch 12 is specific to the Mankato market.

Is this correct??

Doctor j

[bakerfall]

I have an issue with WTTW in Chicago being channel 11 (no sub channel) and hiding the existing 11 (if you have hide SD duplicates) namely that they don't air the same programming.

http://www.wttw.com/main.taf?erube_fh=wttw&wttw.submit.ShowDaySchedule=1

I noticed that WTTW HD was live on DirecTV because I tuned to 11 for my daughter this morning and it was not Sesame Street :) I'm going to need to unhide SD duplicates and redo my guide, which isn't a huge deal, but still a slight PITA.

[Stuart Sweet]

I suspect that the issue of non-simulcast HDs will clear itself up in the next three months when the SDs go away. In Los Angeles 28.1 used to be HD only and 28.2 used to have the HD mirror, now 28.1 mirrors 28 (NTSC.)

[SteveHas]

This is certainly great news!
I am bit surprised however that the great PBS mother ship WGBH here in Boston was not part of the initial roll out.

[oldschoolecw]

This is certainly great news!
I am bit surprised however that the great PBS mother ship WGBH here in Boston was not part of the initial roll out.

I truly thought the landmark PBS Station WGBH would have been amongst DirecTV’s portal into great HD PBS programming, I truly am disgusted

[Stuart Sweet]

As a former denizen of Allston, Mass, "0-21-34" I share your sadness. I don't know the reason why WGBH didn't make the first cut when WNET and KCET did. I hope you are rewarded in the next wave.

[LameLefty]

No PBS HD in the Nashville Area yet, we get WNPX-8 from Nashville,TN and WCTE-22 from Cookeville,TN

Yes, I noted that a few pages ago at about 8:00 a.m. :p

[DodgerKing]

As a former denizen of Allston, Mass, "0-21-34" I share your sadness. I don't know the reason why WGBH didn't make the first cut when WNET and KCET did. I hope you are rewarded in the next wave.

It is WGBH where a lot of the national PBS programming originates from, such as This Old House.

[oldschoolecw]

As a former denizen of Allston, Mass, "0-21-34" I share your sadness. I don't know the reason why WGBH didn't make the first cut when WNET and KCET did. I hope you are rewarded in the next wave.

Any hint on a time span for the next wave?

[Stuart Sweet]

You have my word, I don't know.

[LameLefty]

Any hint on a time span for the next wave?

I doubt anyone who knows can truly say, but going on past experience, and since so many other DMAs already have placeholder "test" channels on transponders for their PBS locals (see the data in the sticky thread at the top of this page), it's likely that they will be rolled weekly or so for the next few weeks.

Now, here's hoping they add more per week next week. :)

[Tubaman-Z]

Thanks for digging up the initial link Syphix! This is all goodness for PBS in MN. As to whether it happens this month or in Feb, either is fine, we've been waiting this long a little while longer doesn't matter.

You might want to qualify that - it's all goodness for PBS in Minneapolis/St. Paul. Those of us a little further south (the Rochester/Des Moines DMA) are still waiting for our LIL in HD.

[JACKIEGAGA]

Thanks DirecTv keep em rolling!

[syphix]

Can abyone confirm than the Mankato MN DMA #199 is receiving PBS HD KTCA Channel 2 , which is Minneapolis-St Paul.
Mankato gets 3 of 4 networks from Minneapolis-St Paul.
Only the CBS KEYC Ch 12 is specific to the Mankato market.

Is this correct??

Doctor jYou'd have to see...but I believe you should be getting KTCA-DT 2-1.

Another "problem", though? Until 12/15, I doubt we'll see any HD on our PBS. DirecTV is feeding us 2-1, which is the DIGITAL, but not HD simulcast of TPT (PBS). 2-2 is the HD channel, and has a completely different schedule (at least, it will until 12/15 when they "merge" the two PBS channels and 2-2 is then a pure simulcast of 2-1, but in HD...here's hoping D* changes the channel they feed us from -1 to -2, as 2-1 will remain a simulcast in SD until 2/18...). A show labeled as "HD" (Martha Speaks) was NOT HD when broadcast. Newshour w/ Jim Lehrer @ 6pm is also labeled as HD, so we'll see if we actually get it in HD...in about 15 minutes.

But I don't hold much hope for HD on KTCA (2) in Minneapolis until 12/15.

[iceturkee]

today's directv press release said more pbs hd station would be added this month and into early next year. perhaps, i misread, but it sounded like most major markets would be up before the 2/19 digital transistion.

[Biggs]

KOPB - Portland, OR PBS switched to HD this morning. AND ABOUT DAMNED TIME, THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!

Have a nice day, one and all.

[syphix]

....
Newshour w/ Jim Lehrer @ 6pm is also labeled as HD, so we'll see if we actually get it in HD...in about 15 minutes.

But I don't hold much hope for HD on KTCA (2) in Minneapolis until 12/15.Nope...no HD from KTCA yet. And, again, there probably won't be until Dec. 15th...if D* remembers to transmit 2-2 then, and not the 2-1 SD simulcast. (They're currently feeding us the -1 SD digital channel. -2, the HD feed, will have a completely different broadcast schedule until 12/15.)

[rhipps]

I still have the same complaint. Why in the Hell doesn't DTV TELL us when they change our programming? Seems to me they could use their "all hands" message system to put out the word when the channels change. Mumble, mumble.

[loudo]

I still have the same complaint. Why in the Hell doesn't DTV TELL us when they change our programming? Seems to me they could use their "all hands" message system to put out the word when the channels change. Mumble, mumble.
There are to many variables, new locals effect only certain areas. Announcing a new channel, that is available only in Premier would make people with Choice Package think they were getting new station when they weren't, causing a lot of unneeded phone calls to DirecTV. People using favorite list would forget to add the channel to their favorite list and wonder why they didn't get it.

I think that DirecTV figures it is easier to just let people discover the new stations by themselves.

I guess with some programing, by zip code and knowing the programing packages each customer has, they could send out messages when there are new stations added. But it would require the message software to be programed with each customers zip code and programing packages.

Actually, the best way to find out about new stations is to be a regular here at DBSTalk. :lol:

[TheRatPatrol]

I just wish D* would label the local HD channels with an HD in the guide. They label the national HD channels with an HD, why can't they do that for the locals?

It would make it easier for people who aren't on here and don't know the difference (like my parents).

Thanks

[cebbigh]

No PBS HD in Seattle, although KCTS shows up in the transponder list.

Almost makes me want to move to Portland. :nono:

[doctor j]

Nope...no HD from KTCA yet. And, again, there probably won't be until Dec. 15th...if D* remembers to transmit 2-2 then, and not the 2-1 SD simulcast. (They're currently feeding us the -1 SD digital channel. -2, the HD feed, will have a completely different broadcast schedule until 12/15.)

Thank you!
It's not for me, I'm a country boy in ALABAMA but I'm trying to reconcile all channel updates as they occur.
Newshawk in his LIL HD sticky listed Mankato as having PBS-HD today and I found no confirmation. It seems logical.

Are 3 of your 4 networks rebroadcasts of Minn/St Paul??

Thus if so and they light up PBS-HD, you are in the same spot beam it's just a matter of zip code authorizations. Just trying to study DirecTV's actions from afar.
Thank you for your responses and love your chat room "chatter" and all other "input".

Doctor j

[bigref]

Maybe I am being dense, but I can't find the page that is referred to here that list what stations are available. Not sure if Baltimore has PBS_HD or not. Just someone show me the way to the "front page" Thanks!

[WhoRu]

No PBS in Cleveland yet. Looking at January 1 timeframe for one of our local PBS' not sure about the other.

The quarterback must go down, and he must go down hard!

[2wheels4me]

Here in LA, KCET (PBS) 28 is now in HD as well,

Thank God, but it sure is a very soft and fuzzy pic :(

[rsonnens]

Maybe I am being dense, but I can't find the page that is referred to here that list what stations are available. Not sure if Baltimore has PBS_HD or not. Just someone show me the way to the "front page" Thanks!

You are not dense. I have been on this forum a long time and I too have no idea the one place to go to see the full current channel lineup with new additions. It seems to move over time and is not clearly labeled.

[Newshawk]

Can abyone confirm than the Mankato MN DMA #199 is receiving PBS HD KTCA Channel 2 , which is Minneapolis-St Paul.
Mankato gets 3 of 4 networks from Minneapolis-St Paul.
Only the CBS KEYC Ch 12 is specific to the Mankato market.

Is this correct??

Doctor j

No, it's not, and I stand corrected. Here's the explanation. Mankato is a small market, and in that market there is no local PBS station at all-so if you're in Blue Earth county, for example, you won't get KTCA. If you are in Nicollet county, you're in the Minneapolis-St. Paul market and you will get KTCA. The kicker is that half of the city of Mankato is in Nicollet county!

I have corrected the LiL lists.

[BubblePuppy]

Almost makes me want to move to Portland. :nono:

Why? Did we get a PBSHD channel? If we did I can't find it.:(

[6tv's]

Does anyone have any idea what two standard def. chanels that we were promised to receive from PBS are going to be and when they will launch?

[loudo]

Does anyone have any idea what two standard def. chanels that we were promised to receive from PBS are going to be and when they will launch?
Right now all standard definition PBS channels are in place, they are just adding PBS HD channels at this time.

[DarinC]

Just got an email from DirecTV Investor Services. Here's a small part.... and will continue to roll out additional markets through the end of the year and in 2009 -- ahead of the Feb. 17 digital transition.

What does the digital transition have to do with anything? It only concerns you if you are receiving analog broadcasts OTA. If so, you were getting SD, and you could have switched to DirecTV (or cable, or Dish, etc.) to continue getting SD PBS regardless of whether or not they carried the HD version. If you were getting it OTA, but wanted to upgrade to getting it in HD, then you obviously already had an antenna. You didn't need DirecTV to carry it via satellite to get it in HD. An AM21 would do that (or any number of other solutions). :shrug:

[man_rob]

What does the digital transition have to do with anything? It only concerns you if you are receiving analog broadcasts OTA. If so, you were getting SD, and you could have switched to DirecTV (or cable, or Dish, etc.) to continue getting SD PBS regardless of whether or not they carried the HD version. If you were getting it OTA, but wanted to upgrade to getting it in HD, then you obviously already had an antenna. You didn't need DirecTV to carry it via satellite to get it in HD. An AM21 would do that (or any number of other solutions). :shrug:

If I'm not mistaken, DirecTV gets most of it's local feeds OTA, at local uplink centers, that convert the signal to from analog to mpeg2 for SD channels, and mpeg2 to mpeg4 for digital/HD channels.

I can't find the article, I think I saw it on multichannelnews.com, but I read that both satellite providers were scrambling to transfer their reception from the analog to digital at their many local uplink centers. It sounds simple, but it requires some work, and equipment. If I remember correctly on a recent test where analog channels were turned off for 60 seconds in Raleigh/Duram NC, much to Dish Network's surprise, they actually lost their local SD feed. Oops. Who knows how many of SD viewers will lose certain locals in Feb.

[tcusta00]

Maybe I am being dense, but I can't find the page that is referred to here that list what stations are available. Not sure if Baltimore has PBS_HD or not. Just someone show me the way to the "front page" Thanks!

You are not dense. I have been on this forum a long time and I too have no idea the one place to go to see the full current channel lineup with new additions. It seems to move over time and is not clearly labeled.

Click on the DBSTalk Logo at the top of the page (or simply just go to DBSTalk.com). That is the front page. (Currently) Right in the center of that page are "Headlines for 12/3/08" where the channels are listed.

Nope, no WMPT-HD yet for us Baltimoreans. :(

[DarinC]

If I'm not mistaken, DirecTV gets most of it's local feeds OTA, at local uplink centers...

Yes, I know that was true at one time, and may still be true in many areas. But that seems kind of irrelevent to them now carrying PBS HD. They certainly weren't getting that via analog. :confused:

[DodgerKing]

I just wish D* would label the local HD channels with an HD in the guide. They label the national HD channels with an HD, why can't they do that for the locals?

It would make it easier for people who aren't on here and don't know the difference (like my parents).

Thanks

Yeah, I agree

They do make a distinction by how the channel is named in the guide though. For example, CBS HD here in LA is listed as KCBS in the guide, while CBS SD is listed as LA 2 in the guide. For the SD locals they use the city initials and for the HD locals they use the station call letters.

Easy way to fix this issue of confusion is simply to not include the SD stations in your favorites. Once my locals go HD, I immediately remove the SD channel.

[DodgerKing]

Yes, I know that was true at one time, and may still be true in many areas. But that seems kind of irrelevent to them now carrying PBS HD. They certainly weren't getting that via analog. :confused:

That has to do more with contractual agreements. They probably could have carried PBS HD a long time ago.

[man_rob]

Yes, I know that was true at one time, and may still be true in many areas. But that seems kind of irrelevent to them now carrying PBS HD. They certainly weren't getting that via analog. :confused:

It does if DirecTV hasn't transitioned the local PBS signal from analog to digital. While the channel may be broadcasting in HD, it doesn't necessarily mean DirecTV has the equipment in place to convert that signal to mpeg4, and put it on the satellite. If on Feb 17, DirecTV hasn't gotten around to upgrading some local uplink centers, they will lose their PBS all together.

[DarinC]

If on Feb 17, DirecTV hasn't gotten around to upgrading some local uplink centers, they will lose their PBS all together.

They will lose their SD coverage. My point was, what does their need to have their SD uplink centers converted to using the digital broadcast have to do with a press release talking about them now carrying PBS HD programming?

[man_rob]

They will lose their SD coverage. My point was, what does their need to have their SD uplink centers converted to using the digital broadcast have to do with a press release talking about them now carrying PBS HD programming? They are working to get the HD/digital feeds up before they lose their SD analog feeds, leaving some folks with no PBS either way.

[DarinC]

They are working to get the HD/digital feeds up before they lose their SD analog feeds, leaving some folks with no PBS either way.

They don't need the HD feeds to get the digital SD feeds. If that were the case, people should be concerned about losing other networks that DirecTV may not carry in their area in HD (like CW) on Feb 17.

[man_rob]

They don't need the HD feeds to get the digital SD feeds. If that were the case, people should be concerned about losing other networks that DirecTV may not carry in their area in HD (like CW) on Feb 17.

If DirecTV is using the analog feed, then they are not using the digital feed, and yes people could lose other networks, if the satellite providers haven't finished up the transition by the cutoff date.

[DarinC]

If DirecTV is using the analog feed, then they are not using the digital feed, and yes people could lose other networks, if the satellite providers haven't finished up the transition.

Yes, I understand that. :) ALL of the distributors need to have a method of receiving local channels OTHER THAN analog OTA. But again, that's irrelevant to whether or not they carry a particular channel's programming in HD. HD is inherently digital, but digital is not necessarily HD. Whether or not they carry a particular channel in HD is dependant on whether or not they want to allocate the bandwidth, and whether or not they have the agreements in place. But for SD, they should no longer be relying on analog OTA.

SD and HD are two separate issues. For those channels that they DO carry in HD, they could only receive the HD signal and crop it down and downrezz for rebroadcast in SD (not ideal, because station bugs and other content might not necessarily be SD safe on the HD broadcasts), or they might receive both the SD and HD feeds. They don't need the HD feed for their SD channels. I would expect that in most cases, they still get the SD feed separately.

[man_rob]

Yes, I understand that. :) ALL of the distributors need to have a method of receiving local channels OTHER THAN analog OTA. But again, that's irrelevant to whether or not they carry a particular channel's programming in HD. HD is inherently digital, but digital is not necessarily HD. Whether or not they carry a particular channel in HD is dependant on whether or not they want to allocate the bandwidth, and whether or not they have the agreements in place. But for SD, they should no longer be relying on analog OTA.

SD and HD are two separate issues. For those channels that they DO carry in HD, they could only receive the HD signal and crop it down and downrezz for rebroadcast in SD (not ideal, because station bugs and other content might not necessarily be SD safe on the HD broadcasts), or they might receive both the SD and HD feeds. They don't need the HD feed for their SD channels. I would expect that in most cases, they still get the SD feed separately.


You keep missing the point. Satellite providers are working towards moving from analog reception to digital reception. They will probably be done by the cutoff date, (there is word that the date may be pushed back a month to Mar 17). If satellite providers can't receive, and uplink the digital feed, then they can't carry the HD signal, or a digital SD signal. Thus they are working to get the systems in place by the cutoff date.

You may have noticed, on the HD broadcast networks, the logos, and graphics etc have been pushed in, and all important action is a shot is in a 4x3 safe zone, just for the center cut downrezzed SD channels.

[Albie]

I can't find it anymore but I remember seeing a revised schedule that showed the dates for converting the OTA uplinks to the digital feeds. It showed both Direct and Dish as being completed by the end of Jan 09 if I remember correctly.

Man_Rob you may have more up to date info on the progress than I remember.

[man_rob]

I can't find it anymore but I remember seeing a revised schedule that showed the dates for converting the OTA uplinks to the digital feeds. It showed both Direct and Dish as being completed by the end of Jan 09 if I remember correctly.

Man_Rob you may have more up to date info on the progress than I remember. Yes, Although initially, they said otherwise, both DirecTV, and Dish have since predicted that they will be finished in time, so it's probably not going to be an issue. Edit: Keep in mind, some local transitions could be missed in the rush.

[islesfan]

KNPB Reno PBS still not in HD (it is barely in SD, more like YouTube). Not a big surprise...

[DarinC]

You keep missing the point. ... If satellite providers can't receive, and uplink the digital feed, then they can't carry the HD signal, or a digital SD signal. Thus they are working to get the systems in place by the cutoff date.

But you keep missing mine. They have to get the systems in place by the cutoff date regardless. This has nothing to do with whether or not they choose to carry a channel in HD. Quote obviously, they've had digital reception in place in all these markets for a long time, as they've been carrying HD feeds from other channels. ALL of their programming must be received from methods other than analog SD. Their choice to carry HD or not is completely separate from that requirement. They could have carried HD earlier, or they can continue to carry only SD after. It's their choice (and the affiliates).

[man_rob]

But you keep missing mine. They have to get the systems in place by the cutoff date regardless. This has nothing to do with whether or not they choose to carry a channel in HD. Quote obviously, they've had digital reception in place in all these markets for a long time, as they've been carrying HD feeds from other channels. ALL of their programming must be received from methods other than analog SD. Their choice to carry HD or not is completely separate from that requirement. They could have carried HD earlier, or they can continue to carry only SD after. It's their choice (and the affiliates).

Again, they are just stating their goal of getting the transition of their equipment done before the analog cutoff. They are projecting that it will be done. It has everything to do with whether or not they can broadcast HD, as if they are not switched over to receive, and uplink the digital transmission, the HD ain't gonna happen either.

[bobnielsen]

If I'm not mistaken, DirecTV gets most of it's local feeds OTA, at local uplink centers, that convert the signal to from analog to mpeg2 for SD channels, and mpeg2 to mpeg4 for digital/HD channels.

I can't find the article, I think I saw it on multichannelnews.com, but I read that both satellite providers were scrambling to transfer their reception from the analog to digital at their many local uplink centers. It sounds simple, but it requires some work, and equipment. If I remember correctly on a recent test where analog channels were turned off for 60 seconds in Raleigh/Duram NC, much to Dish Network's surprise, they actually lost their local SD feed. Oops. Who knows how many of SD viewers will lose certain locals in Feb.

In the markets where they have already switched to getting the digital feed for SD, nothing went black during tests. The plan is to have all markets switched before February 17: http://mstv.org/docs/satschedalpha.pdf.

[man_rob]

In the markets where they have already switched to getting the digital feed for SD, nothing went black during tests. The plan is to have all markets switched before February 17: http://mstv.org/docs/satschedalpha.pdf.

http://www.multichannel.com/blog/350000435/post/1730033773.html?q=directv+digital+analog+tv+transi tion

[bobnielsen]

http://www.multichannel.com/blog/350000435/post/1730033773.html?q=directv+digital+analog+tv+transi tion

The transition for Raleigh is scheduled for 12/15, so it naturally failed.

The Seattle switch happened in early October. The SD channels definitely look better, although not everything is center-cut-safe (particularly some commercials).

[man_rob]

The transition for Raleigh is scheduled for 12/15, so it naturally failed.

The Seattle switch happened in early October. The SD channels definitely look better, although not everything is center-cut-safe (particularly some commercials).


I'm just saying it's probably not going to be a smooth transition. There are going to be those channels that get missed, despite early testing.

It's only in the last few months that the center cut safe zone has been gaining acceptance. programmers, and advertisers will quickly learn.

[bobnielsen]

Of course, there will be some other causes of confusion with the transition, like HD logos on SD stations.

[DarinC]

Again, they are just stating their goal of getting the transition of their equipment done before the analog cutoff.
And I was simply saying the mention of the cutoff was completely unrelated to a press release about carrying HD programming. There was nothing in that release their equipment. It was 100% about carrying an HD channel in markets that, as it so happens, already have digital reception capability.

It has everything to do with whether or not they can broadcast HD, as if they are not switched over to receive, and uplink the digital transmission, the HD ain't gonna happen either.
And again, they can (and have) switched over to reception and uplink of the digital transmission, regardless of whether or not they are carrying the HD channel. Look at the HD channels that got carried before the transition, and look at the HD channels that won't happen until after the transition (like CW). They could have said they were trying to get the PBS HD rollout done by Talk like a Pirate day 2010, and that would have worked just as well (except for complaints about it taking so long), and been just as relevant.

Regardless, I was simply pointing out that the comment seemed irrelevant. If you don't see my point, I won't derail the thread any further trying to explain it. :)

[man_rob]

And I was simply saying the mention of the cutoff was completely unrelated to a press release about carrying HD programming. There was nothing in that release their equipment. It was 100% about carrying an HD channel in markets that, as it so happens, already have digital reception capability.


And again, they can (and have) switched over to reception and uplink of the digital transmission, regardless of whether or not they are carrying the HD channel. Look at the HD channels that got carried before the transition, and look at the HD channels that won't happen until after the transition (like CW). They could have said they were trying to get the PBS HD rollout done by Talk like a Pirate day 2010, and that would have worked just as well (except for complaints about it taking so long), and been just as relevant.

Regardless, I was simply pointing out that the comment seemed irrelevant. If you don't see my point, I won't derail the thread any further trying to explain it. :)

Okay, if you say so. I give up.

[Ira Lacher]

Those of us a little further south (the Rochester/Des Moines DMA) are still waiting for our LIL in HD.. . . as well as CW Channel 23! :nono2:

[bobcamp1]

I'm just saying it's probably not going to be a smooth transition. There are going to be those channels that get missed, despite early testing.

It's only in the last few months that the center cut safe zone has been gaining acceptance. programmers, and advertisers will quickly learn.

I hate center-cut. No one uses the full 16:9 as it is, and this will give them even more reason not to. So why even bother with a 16:9 TV? I like the fact that my OTA receiver can easily zoom in to fix "postage stamp" issues. Maybe D* could put that in their SD receivers as well.

FYI, I wouldn't be surprised at all if the analog cut off got pushed back at least one month because everything just isn't quite in place yet. Maybe even to 2010. The last thing people need in this economy right now is to give up cable only to be forced to spend money on an OTA converter box.

Finally, it would be nice if D* announced their PBS HD roll-out plan or even had any rhyme or reason to the DMAs it chose. I'm guessing they activated one new PBS HD channel on each spot beam, but I'm too lazy to figure that out. :p

[Stuart Sweet]

I agree that center-cut does a disservice to those of us who actually bought HDTVs. Hopefully it will become less of an issue in the coming years.

[man_rob]

I hate center-cut. No one uses the full 16:9 as it is, and this will give them even more reason not to. So why even bother with a 16:9 TV? I like the fact that my OTA receiver can easily zoom in to fix "postage stamp" issues. Maybe D* could put that in their SD receivers as well.

FYI, I wouldn't be surprised at all if the analog cut off got pushed back at least one month because everything just isn't quite in place yet. Maybe even to 2010. The last thing people need in this economy right now is to give up cable only to be forced to spend money on an OTA converter box.

Finally, it would be nice if D* announced their PBS HD roll-out plan or even had any rhyme or reason to the DMAs it chose. I'm guessing they activated one new PBS HD channel on each spot beam, but I'm too lazy to figure that out. :p

There are some newer technologies to help alleviate such issues, http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6604469.html?desc=topstory
but from reading the article, it seems that all parties involved, program producers, networks, cable/satellite providers would need to be on board for it to work.

ABC, and CBS both use 4x3 safe zones for their HD programming, and even on NBC, I've noticed the NBC logo is pushed in so it will appear on center cut images.

A couple of weeks ago, on my SD set up, Saturday Night Live, which has been letterboxed, went to center cut, only for a week or two. Now it is back to letterbox again. Was it DirecTV testing center cutting and down-rezzing the HD signal? Was NBC doing a test?? I don't know.

[Newshawk]

There are some newer technologies to help alleviate such issues, http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6604469.html?desc=topstory
but from reading the article, it seems that all parties involved, program producers, networks, cable/satellite providers would need to be on board for it to work.

ABC, and CBS both use 4x3 safe zones for their HD programming, and even on NBC, I've noticed the NBC logo is pushed in so it will appear on center cut images.

A couple of weeks ago, on my SD set up, Saturday Night Live, which has been letterboxed, went to center cut, only for a week or two. Now it is back to letterbox again. Was it DirecTV testing center cutting and down-rezzing the HD signal? Was NBC doing a test?? I don't know.

On Fox, they have their HD logo set up so that when you view the center cut, you only see "FOX" but on widescreen you see "FOX___HD" (underscore added to maintain spacing as the script for the posts removes all unexpected spacing).

[MattWarner]

FYI, I wouldn't be surprised at all if the analog cut off got pushed back at least one month because everything just isn't quite in place yet.

I would be surprised if the cutoff date is moved. It was mandated by congress and congress would have to vote to move it. I have heard that the NAB and others are asking congress to allow analog to stay on after Feb 17th for a month or so with conversion information only (ie: a slide show telling you that you need a converter, etc) and for emergency information.

I could certainly imagine the uproar if severe tornadoes are moving thru Kansas that evening, then suddenly analog goes away. Those that didn't convert can't get the emergency information.

So, I believe, the conversion will take place on time.. but that analog might not stop until a little while later.

[Piratefan98]

I could certainly imagine the uproar if severe tornadoes are moving thru Kansas that evening, then suddenly analog goes away. Those that didn't convert can't get the emergency information.


Thankfully, tornadoes in Kansas in February are very very rare. "Severe" tornadoes in Kansas in February are a once-in-a-Century thing.

Nit-picking Jeff :)

[gcisko]

I guess I am a little confused. Last night WTTW Digital was certainly on the Directv channel 11. Same thing simulcast on 11-1 (I have an OTA). When I checked this morning, 11 did not have the same content as 11-1. So I am really perplexed. Can anyone please explain?

Thanks in advance.

[JoeTheDragon]

I guess I am a little confused. Last night WTTW Digital was certainly on the Directv channel 11. Same thing simulcast on 11-1 (I have an OTA). When I checked this morning, 11 did not have the same content as 11-1. So I am really perplexed. Can anyone please explain?

Thanks in advance.

11.2 is the SD Simulcast of WTTW

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/WTTW

In the past 11 HD did not show the same stuff as 11 SD analog.

[rahchgo]

I guess I am a little confused. Last night WTTW Digital was certainly on the Directv channel 11. Same thing simulcast on 11-1 (I have an OTA). When I checked this morning, 11 did not have the same content as 11-1. So I am really perplexed. Can anyone please explain?

Thanks in advance.

Currently, Channel 11 is simulcasting its OTA analog programming in SD on 11-2.
It has different programming for WTTW-DT on 11-1. Programming seems to be the same on both in the evenings. I have SD channels hidden on my HR20-700, but I would assume that the SD version of 11 is still the 11-2 programming. It is on my older Hughes HD receiver and on my HR10-250 Tivo.

[bobnielsen]

Most (hopefully all) of the PBS stations are switching their programming to be the same on both analog and the HD digital subchannel (of course some of that programming won't be in HD). Directv will only need to pick up one feed and will use that for both SD and HD, just as with the commercial stations.

[JoeTheDragon]

Most (hopefully all) of the PBS stations are switching their programming to be the same on both analog and the HD digital subchannel (of course some of that programming won't be in HD). Directv will only need to pick up one feed and will use that for both SD and HD, just as with the commercial stations.

Why is there no Dolby Digital on a lot of the SD channels?

[bobnielsen]

I think only a few of the SD premium movie channels have DD.

[JoeTheDragon]

I think only a few of the SD premium movie channels have DD.

why don't more of them have DD?

[dcowboy7]

why don't more of them have DD?
"because theyre cheap people".
- dr.clove, "the odd couple".

[Tele-TV]

Thank God, but it sure is a very soft and fuzzy pic :(

I noticed that too. The OTA feed is so much better.

[Richierich]

why don't more of them have DD?

They are saving on bandwidth!!!

[bobnielsen]

They are saving on bandwidth!!!

The additional bandwidth to supply DD5.1 audio is minimal, compared to what is required for video.

[jpsawyer]

Not sure if this is happening to others, but WTTW-DT seems to have a significant audio sync issue. Anyone else?

H20 to Sony TV via HDMI for Video
H20 to Denon receiver via Optical for Audio

All other channels seem to be fine, both live and recorded...

[deweydm]

Not sure if this is happening to others, but WTTW-DT seems to have a significant audio sync issue. Anyone else?

H20 to Sony TV via HDMI for Video
H20 to Denon receiver via Optical for Audio

All other channels seem to be fine, both live and recorded...

Yes. But I've only really noticed it during the News Hour. Wondering if it isn't an issue with WTTW-DT and PBS national programming.

[Malibu13]

Since the launch of these channels came last week and the topic has strayed way off course numerous times, discussion here has reached its peak. Therefore i am Closing the thread.

Hopefully we will see more launches soon. :)

Thread Closed