DTV Transition

I don't know if this was good or bad but I see some valid points as to why the DTV transition should take place sooner rather than later and the opposition has good points. :dunno:

For example there is a company in town hiring people for at least two weeks paying approximately $13.00/hr to help out in the conversion. Better than nothing I guess and it should help some unemployed people for a short while.

No big issue for me. I already have one converter and a big screen HDTV Plasma TV. :grinyes:

Another interesting observation is the House Republicans still have power to do something regardless of the Demo majority. :eek:


Source: MSNBC/AP

House defeats bill to delay digital TV transition
Republicans succeeded in scuttling bill to delay analog to digital switch

WASHINGTON - Bucking the Obama administration, House Republicans on Wednesday defeated a bill to postpone the upcoming transition from analog to digital television broadcasting to June 12 — leaving an estimated 6.5 million U.S. households unprepared for the currently scheduled Feb. 17 switchover.

Link to Article (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28896344)

Make it happen and get with the times. :D I bought my first LCD HDTV when I was just a freshman in college though so this won't be making a big impact on me.

The biggest problem with the analog to digital switch was the sellout by the republicans who raped the citizens with a rigged “auction” that sold the bandwidth to not the highest bidder but to, the highest lobbiest while ignoring public demand for access to the same bandwidth.

“Everyone Wave Goodbye To Outgoing FCC Chief Kevin Martin: Kevin Martin is calling it quits as of inauguration day. The Chairman, who could have served for three more years is quiting.”

http://consumerist.com/5133588/everyone-wave-goodbye-to-outgoing-fcc-chief-kevin-martin

“Martin explains that all of his decisions were guided by a belief that "a robust, competitive marketplace, not regulation, is ultimately the best protector of the public interest”

Right. No regulation. Worked well for us in avoiding the meltdown of AIG, Citi Group, Enron, Worldcom, Bear Stearns, and others. Lets go for it again. Couldn't get much worse? Oh yes it will.

Let it happen on schedule, it really has no effect on anyone, except free-air users. Just to help clarify for those who may not understand what the change to DTV means. If you have one or more televisions that receive free over-the-air television programming (with a roof-top antenna or “rabbit ears” on the TV), the type of TV you own is important. A digital television (a TV with an internal digital tuner) will allow you to continue to watch free over-the-air programming after February 17, 2009. However, if you have an analog television, you will need a digital-to-analog converter box to continue to watch broadcast television on that set. This converter box will also enable you to see any additional multicast programming that your local stations are offering.

Next, a digital-to-analog converter box will allow you to continue using your existing analog TV to watch over-the-air digital broadcasts. You do not need to get rid of your existing analog TV! In addition, analog sets should continue to work as before if connected to a subscription service such as cable or satellite TV. Also, analog sets should continue to work with gaming consoles, VCRs, DVD players, and similar products that you use now.

It is important to remember that the DTV transition is a transition from analog broadcasting to digital broadcasting. It is not a transition from analog broadcasting to High Definition broadcasting. Digital broadcasting allows for High Definition broadcasts, but High Definition is not required, and you do not need to buy a HDTV to watch digital TV. A Standard Definition DTV (which is simply a TV with an internal digital tuner), or a digital-to-analog converter box hooked to an analog TV, is all that is required to continue watching over-the-air broadcast television.

Let it happen on schedule, it really has no effect on anyone, except free-air users. Just to help clarify for those who may not understand what the change to DTV means...............

Good post and nice write up Bo. :thumbsup:


Everyone Wave Goodbye To Outgoing FCC Chief Kevin Martin

:wave:

Maybe he made the right decision to get off the train before the wreck occurs in the near future. :uhoh:......:lol:


On the flip side.



Source:intomobile.com

FCC Chairman Kevin Martin resigns

For the past eight years, Kevin Martin has been working with the FCC to shape US wireless policy. In that time, he has butted heads with all sides of the wireless industry. Today, the Federal Communications Commission Chairman resigned his post as the head of one of the tech industry’s most influential regulatory firms.

For the better part of this decade, FCC Chairman Martin has lead the FCC through policy-changes that has opened up new spectrum for national wireless networks. The Advanced Wireless Spectrum-1 auction netted the FCC a cool $13.7 billion, while the more recent 700Mhz spectrum auction moved an impressive $19.4 billion into government coffers, all under Martin’s watch. Martin fought to open up the analog-TV white-spaces spectrum for use as an open and unlicensed spectrum, setting the stage for free-market wireless networks of the future.

Link to Article (http://www.intomobile.com/2009/01/15/fcc-chairman-kevin-martin-resigns.html)

Too much time and money have already been invested in the 2/17/09 switchover date to change it. The rest of the population who is ready should not have to wait for the stragglers to catch up. All of the stations in my area have done stories on the news complete with shutting off their analog signal for a brief time to let those that may not be sure if they need a box. I got my coupons last year at this time and went out and got my boxes right away.
My only issue, I guess if you want to call it one is the date planned for the switchover is in February, the dead of winter. For those that didn't deal with any antenna issues earlier, are now stuck having to work outside (in many cases) in this nasty weather that much if the country is experiencing. When I first heard of the date , I thought,"Couldn't they have planned it for a ,more warmer time , say , April?" :dunno:
One issue I keep seeing in the advertisements that is in error is those with satellite subscriptions do not need to do anything. WRONG. It should say "...those that have a satellite tv subscription AND get their local tv stations through the satellite do not need to do anything." I have Directv and our area finally got local stations through the satellite only a few years ago. At that time you needed to install another dish and pay an additional monthly fee. At that time, I was using a rooftop antennae and got good reception of my locals so I opted not to go that route, as did many others. Now we will need a box come 2/17.
Another good site for assistance with the changeover is http://antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx . This site is good for maximizing your reception, especially for us living in rural areas away from the tv towers. It helps you to select the proper antenna to go with your DTV box, as the antenna is another important part of good digital reception.

Looks like there will be another attempt to delay the date:http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/news/tv/la-fi-dtv29-2009jan29,0,2069699.story?track=rss


"The likelihood is we'll come back next week" and pass it, said Rep. Rick Boucher (D-Va.), chairman of the House telecommunications subcommittee. But Democratic and Republican policy retreats could complicate the attempts to get another vote next week.

A spokesman for House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) said she was looking for a way to hold another vote soon."

It really makes no difference to me. :grinno: If there is valid justification for the delay then so let it be. Lack of funding for the $40 discount cards could be valid since the government should help subsidize costs incurred like for the converter unit. Other than the estimated 6.5 million U.S. households according to that questionable Nielsen report that may use antennas only the rest of the country is ready to move on. What will be typical is when the new deadline comes up in June it will probably be delayed. America is a society of procrastinators therefore there will be similar complaints.

The Senate already approved their version due to compromises. TV stations will be allowed to go all digital earlier regardless.



Source: MSNBC/AP

WASHINGTON - Congress appears poised to grant a four-month delay in the upcoming shutdown of analog TV broadcasts, though broadcasters still will be allowed to go all-digital earlier if they want.

Jonathan Collegio, vice president for the digital television transition for the National Association of Broadcasters, argues that the Nielsen numbers may overstate the number of viewers who are not ready for the digital transition. He noted that the numbers exclude consumers who have already purchased a converter box but not yet installed it, as well as those who have requested coupons but not yet received them.

Link to Article (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28863961/)

According to what was in the 2005 bill, (below) it looks to me like Just another effort of big brother government to take away individual freeedoms and have more power.

Right now I have neither a digital T.V., nor a converter, and frankly, what is on T.V. now is so close to worthless that I am sure I won't miss a thing if I have no Television then.

However those Station owners know that too many people like me will cut their viewership and money for advertising.

I'm sure thats the whole idea behind those bogus coverter box "coupons",
just another form of the so-called "stimulus" package.

People are so duped by what the government gives them, they don't see their own freedoms being ripped away right in front of them, let alone their own dignity.

Let people purchase their own TVs and converter boxes, or let them do more important things with their lives than sit around watching T.V.!



http://www.mailarchive.ca/lists/comp.dcom.telecom/2006-02/0158.html

I'm sure thats the whole idea behind those bogus coverter box "coupons",
just another form of the so-called "stimulus" package.
How so? This was, according to the link you provided, signed by then President Bush on 2/8/06 far earlier than any current stimulus package in legislation.
Let people purchase their own TVs and converter boxes, or let them do more important things with their lives than sit around watching T.V.!

I don't know about you but I welcome a coupon to pay only $9.00 for my converter boxes. Why should you have to pay full price,( albeit probably a higher price because of the coupon) when there is a way to lessen the burden. Besides you have a choice of what converter box or tv to buy. Government isn't telling you which one you need to purchase. And what about the people who have very little choice and tv is important in their lives (i.e. senior citizens, shut ins, etc.) Should we deny them the freedom to watch tv?

I don't know about you but I welcome a coupon to pay only $9.00 for my converter boxes. Why should you have to pay full price,( albeit probably a higher price because of the coupon) when there is a way to lessen the burden. Besides you have a choice of what converter box or tv to buy. Government isn't telling you which one you need to purchase. And what about the people who have very little choice and tv is important in their lives (i.e. senior citizens, shut ins, etc.) Should we deny them the freedom to watch tv?

:werd:

The money was allocated way before the financial melt down and really has nothing to do with the stimulus packages. There is no question DTV technology is superior and an advancement in technology.

If you are a taxpayer you are just getting your money back anyways. :grinyes: The typical converter at places like Walmart will cost around $50. So you'll only have to shell out about $10 of your own funds. Just look at it like it is a discount coupon, nothing more or nothing less. Both my mother and mother in law are retired senior citizens on fixed incomes and the discount sure helped them out. They don't watch much TV and can't afford cable or satellite but the antenna TV still comes in handy for the news and in case there is any national or local emergencies or disaster situations.

I noted there were a lot of interesting features when I setup the converters for them.

.

I noted there were a lot of interesting features when I setup the converters for them.
A lot of people in my area are discovering that they end up getting more channels with the converter boxes that DTV affords over analog. Our local ABC affiliate now has 4 stations off the main one that used to be analog. They use the extra 3 stations , one runs the local news (rebroadcast) at other times of the day, making it convenient for some, they also have been broadcasting a high profile murder case testimony from our local county courthouse. Another "branch" of the original station broadcasts a Doppler radar,and another one has another DIY type network. Our local PBS also has 4 branches and one of the branches broadcasts old B&W movies 24 hrs a day. Some of the low power stations like CW network and WB are broadcast on other "branches" as they are owned by the local NBC affiliate, and have agreements. So for those who do watch tv, a simple $10 converter box can open a new world of stations they were unable to get without a paid subscription to a cable or satellite service.

How so? This was, according to the link you provided, signed by then President Bush on 2/8/06 far earlier than any current stimulus package in legislation. All that stimlus package is, is money that the government doesn't have, they have borrowed and essentially stolen from future generations, and alloted to people/businesses who won't take financial responsibitity for themselves. (I'm so glad no Republicans voted for it)
The Converter coupons are the same type of program, only set up ealier.

I don't know about you but I welcome a coupon to pay only $9.00 for my converter boxes. Why should you have to pay full price,( albeit probably a higher price because of the coupon) when there is a way to lessen the burden. Besides you have a choice of what converter box or tv to buy. Government isn't telling you which one you need to purchase. And what about the people who have very little choice and tv is important in their lives (i.e. senior citizens, shut ins, etc.) Should we deny them the freedom to watch tv?

Ventureowner, would you please give me $40.00 to buy a converter box, because I don't have the money to buy one, and am too lazy and irresponsible to earn the money to buy one?:crying:

That is really whats going on here with these coupons and stimulus program!

A lot of people in my area are discovering that they end up getting more channels with the converter boxes that DTV affords over analog. Our local ABC affiliate now has 4 stations off the main one that used to be analog. They use the extra 3 stations , one runs the local news (rebroadcast) at other times of the day, making it convenient for some, they also have been broadcasting a high profile murder case testimony from our local county courthouse. Another "branch" of the original station broadcasts a Doppler radar,and another one has another DIY type network. Our local PBS also has 4 branches and one of the branches broadcasts old B&W movies 24 hrs a day. Some of the low power stations like CW network and WB are broadcast on other "branches" as they are owned by the local NBC affiliate, and have agreements. So for those who do watch tv, a simple $10 converter box can open a new world of stations they were unable to get without a paid subscription to a cable or satellite service.

That sounds like a good deal!
Let each person/family buy their own digital TV/converter with their own money, or ask a friend or relative to get it for them for birthday or Christmas.

And really, for those without a lot of money, the Converter IS the discounted way to go, instead of costing hundreds or thousands of $ for the digital TV, it's only $50.00 for the converter. Sounds reasonable to me.

Again, follow the money trail. The stations and advertisers don't want to lose money through less viewers, so they convinced the government to pay for people to covert, rather than waiting for them to do it on their own like they should.

PURE GREED!!!

All that stimlus package is, is money that the government doesn't have, they have borrowed and essentially stolen from future generations, and alloted to people/businesses who won't take financial responsibitity for themselves. (I'm so glad no Republicans voted for it)
The Converter coupons are the same type of program, only set up ealier.
The word "stimulus" has really taken hold in the English language lately started by then President G.W.Bush's stimulus check program in 2008. Now it seems everybody wants to label any type of help as stimumlus :shakehead: The fact that the DTV program was started in 2005 with the introduction of the bill does not constitute a stimulus program. Money was made available (although not enough it seems) to provide coupons for anybody who needed them to purchase the boxes needed for the transition. It's along the same lines as the Sunday manufacturer coupon supplements that appear in the newspaper. Should we be calling those stimulus' to buy cereal, coffee, frozen bagels, etc. instead of coupons?
Ventureowner, would you please give me $40.00 to buy a converter box, because I don't have the money to buy one, and am too lazy and irresponsible to earn the money to buy one?:crying:
Why should i give you $40 to buy a converter box when you can get them for as little as $9.99? You had enough time and warning to request your very own coupon to get your own box and enough time to save $10 to buy your own. Don't have the money to buy one? How about you forgo eating out one night or not go to a movie, and you'll have enough enough saved to get one. It's not rocket science :lol: "Too lazy or irresponsible "to get one? Too bad.
That sounds like a good deal!
Let each person/family buy their own digital TV/converter with their own money, or ask a friend or relative to get it for them for birthday or Christmas.

And really, for those without a lot of money, the Converter IS the discounted way to go, instead of costing hundreds or thousands of $ for the digital TV, it's only $50.00 for the converter. Sounds reasonable to me.

As previously stated, it doesn't have to cost $50 for a box. with proper planning,( you had enough forewarning that this was going to happen on 2/17/09)you could have requested, received and purchased your own box and be ready. Again, if people don't want to participate in this, it is their right. It's like buying a VCR or DVD to watch movies. It was a personal decision. If they wanted to view the movies, then they would have to buy their own player. And stores even offered discounts, coupons and rebates for consumers to buy those items too! Should they be faulted as well? Should that be considered a "stimulus-type " program by the stores too?
The converter boxes are basically the next step in technology. Like when tv replaced the radio as a main source of entertainment, then color tv replaced B&W. Another analogy was when radial tires replaces bias-ply tires. Something comes along that is a better technology and in order to get people to be convinced and take advantage, sometimes they need an incentive to do so, as that may be the only way we can get ahead.

The converter boxes are basically the next step in technology. Like when tv replaced the radio as a main source of entertainment, then color tv replaced B&W. Another analogy was when radial tires replaces bias-ply tires. Something comes along that is a better technology and in order to get people to be convinced and take advantage, sometimes they need an incentive to do so, as that may be the only way we can get ahead.

:werd:

No question DTV is an improvement and a technological advancement IMO for the better. I noticed when I set up the converter (Magnavox) for the spare analog TV there were some nice features that spruce up older analog TVs. Of course features may vary with the brand converter. For example the banner indicator at the top of the screen, built in signal strength meter to check channel signal or align your antenna, VChip, EPG, and the subchannels operating off the main channels giving a better variety of stations. Basically the main advantage is DTV allows for multiple signals called sub channels sent simultaneously on one main channel by using high compression technology. And there is no question the picture quality is superior. :grinyes:

The word "stimulus" has really taken hold in the English language lately started by then President G.W.Bush's stimulus check program in 2008. Now it seems everybody wants to label any type of help as stimumlus :shakehead: The fact that the DTV program was started in 2005 with the introduction of the bill does not constitute a stimulus program. Money was made available (although not enough it seems) to provide coupons for anybody who needed them to purchase the boxes needed for the transition. It's along the same lines as the Sunday manufacturer coupon supplements that appear in the newspaper. Should we be calling those stimulus' to buy cereal, coffee, frozen bagels, etc. instead of coupons? The difference is, those manufacturers are not taking someone elses money to give you a discount. The members of congress aren't usuing their own money, but the taxpayers money, to give people something they should pay for themselves. That is selfish, wrong and stealing from one person to give to another.

Why should i give you $40 to buy a converter box when you can get them for as little as $9.99? You had enough time and warning to request your very own coupon to get your own box and enough time to save $10 to buy your own. Don't have the money to buy one? How about you forgo eating out one night or not go to a movie, and you'll have enough enough saved to get one. It's not rocket science :lol: "Too lazy or irresponsible "to get one? Too bad. Well, the sad truth is, you have already paid for someones converter box, without your prior consent, because those coupons are paid for by your tax money!

As previously stated, it doesn't have to cost $50 for a box. with proper planning,( you had enough forewarning that this was going to happen on 2/17/09)you could have requested, received and purchased your own box and be ready. Again, if people don't want to participate in this, it is their right. It's like buying a VCR or DVD to watch movies. It was a personal decision. If they wanted to view the movies, then they would have to buy their own player. And stores even offered discounts, coupons and rebates for consumers to buy those items too! Should they be faulted as well? Should that be considered a "stimulus-type " program by the stores too? They aren't taking money from someone else to pay for those rebates like the government is with tax payers money for the coupons.
The converter boxes are basically the next step in technology. Like when tv replaced the radio as a main source of entertainment, then color tv replaced B&W. Another analogy was when radial tires replaces bias-ply tires. Something comes along that is a better technology and in order to get people to be convinced and take advantage, sometimes they need an incentive to do so, as that may be the only way we can get ahead.

I don't remember the government giving out coupons for DvD players, or VCRS, or Radial tires.

Now I wasn't around when T.V. first came out did the government give coupons to people for T.V.s then?
If consumers didn't get government "coupons' for those items, and the economy and society adjusted just fine then, why do people think we need government help now?

And don't say it's the economy, T.V.s came out at the time of the great deppresion, and VCRs, when the economy wasn't so great.
There are just too many Americans with the "spoiled brat" mentallity today, wanting someone to give them everything.:eek7:

Regardless of whether you agree with the reasons for switching over to DTV or the coupon program keep in mind that there are two main reasons why the government has mandated the transition. To free up those analog frequencies for public safety communications, i.e. police, fire, and emergency rescue and even the military. Also, opening up frequencies for commercial use and ventures like advanced commercial wireless. The latter won't be free and blocks of frequencies will be auctioned off to commercial entities meaning the government will make money on the deal.

Here is an interesting read from Popular Mechanics. Obviously many took advantage of the coupon program but there is proof of procrastination.


As of Jan. 14, the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) program had mailed out 44.6 million government-issued coupons to defray the cost of DTV converter boxes. (There’s a limit of two coupons per household.) Of those, 19.8 million had been redeemed, 13.7 million coupons were about to pass their 90-day expiration deadline, and 11 million were still active but unused.

Link to Article (http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/industry/4300918.html)

Well, the sad truth is, you have already paid for someones converter box, without your prior consent, because those coupons are paid for by your tax money! Isn’t that what the government is for, to take care of those who are to lazy & irresponsible to take care of themselves?

Isn’t that what the government is for, to take care of those who are to lazy & irresponsible to take care of themselves?


:lol: How about some government coupons to pay for new "cleaner" vehicles like hybrids and such? My 99 Caravan is starting to have a few problems, I could use a new vehicle, more that digital T.V.!:grinyes:

:lol: How about some government coupons to pay for new "cleaner" vehicles like hybrids and such?

Sorry the government already thought of that whether you agree with it or not in the form of energy tax credits for buying a hybrid vehicle.

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/Feg/tax_hybrid.shtml

Looks like we will have 4 more months to convert:
http://www.informationweek.com/news/personal_tech/TV_theater/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=213001981&subSection=All+Stories

But that still won't stop some tv stations from flipping the switch in 12 days going all digital. Out of the 3 local affiliates in my area, one is going ahead with the switch on 2/17 and the other 2 have not made a decision as of today.

Sorry the government already thought of that whether you agree with it or not in the form of energy tax credits for buying a hybrid vehicle.

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/Feg/tax_hybrid.shtml

well at around $20,000 for a hybrid I'll need more than just $3000.00 in credit, I'll need more like at least $15,000 in a tax credit!

http://www.kentucky.com/572/story/685815.html
Here's an interesting article about the DTV transition.It explains that the US is essentially bold in the way it's going through the process of analog to digital in basically one swath,( although, arguably, one could say we now have 2 shutdown dates.) Other large countries have done this over a period of time or regions, while smaller countries with less tv viewers/population have tended to do it like the US, all at once. The article also explains what other governments have done to assist their population to convert their tv's to be able to receive the digital signals.
It also states that there are still 3.7 million requests still unfulfilled for the DTV coupons, and the economic stimulus plan has allocated roughly $650,000,000 to correct this issue :eek:.

http://www.kentucky.com/572/story/685815.html
Here's an interesting article about the DTV transition.It explains that the US is essentially bold in the way it's going through the process of analog to digital in basically one swath,( although, arguably, one could say we now have 2 shutdown dates.) Other large countries have done this over a period of time or regions, while smaller countries with less tv viewers/population have tended to do it like the US, all at once. The article also explains what other governments have done to assist their population to convert their tv's to be able to receive the digital signals.
It also states that there are still 3.7 million requests still unfulfilled for the DTV coupons, and the economic stimulus plan has allocated roughly $650,000,000 to correct this issue :eek:.

That is quite an informative article.
I gather, if it goes well the U.S. will look pretty smart.
If there are alot of problems with the switch, the U.S. will look pretty stupid.

:bananasmi I got some excellent news for myself today.

I had lunch with a former client of mine.
We started talking about the digital switch in Television.
When mentioned I don't have a converter box yet, she told me to hold off on purchasing one
because she is getting ready to move and has 2 converter boxes and she will give me one!

So, Praise the Lord, I won't even need that government coupon after all!!:bananasmi

On time. If people can't get with it in the 2 years they've had already....

This always happens, some last minute heroics for people that haven't taken responsibility for their own action. Or inaction, in this case.

Of course my old TV was 18 years old and I waited for a sale last month. :)

On time. If people can't get with it in the 2 years they've had already....

This always happens, some last minute heroics for people that haven't taken responsibility for their own action. Or inaction, in this case. I wasn't looking or asking for that offer, as I said before, I couldn't care less if they take my T.V. away. Very little is worth watching anyway on T.V. But if a friend offers to give me a converter I will take it.

Of course my old TV was 18 years old and I waited for a sale last month. :)

I think it needs to be delayed, and here is why...

I have had my converter box for at least 6 months now, and have been experimenting with all possible locations of my antenna to get a clear signal. After an enormous amount of frustration, I have finally given up, and have stopped watching broadcast TV. I can regularly watch 2 channels in digital, and one of them is Fox, so that leaves me essentially screwed. It is my understanding that the Government performed VERY few in home tests to see whether the transition would work for those with bunny ears, and the tests they did do were mostly in homes with outdoor antennas 10m off the ground. :screwy:

The problem is that the government stepped in and mandated that private corporations change their practices without sufficient justification and also without sufficient research and development. The public has been accustomed to free over the air broadcast television for decades and are now being told that they will have to purchase and install outdoor antennas at a likely cost of hundreds of dollars (if they pay for labor). It's absurd, and it needs more time to fixed and set in motion correctly!

I have had my converter box for at least 6 months now, and have been experimenting with all possible locations of my antenna to get a clear signal. After an enormous amount of frustration, I have finally given up, and have stopped watching broadcast TV. I can regularly watch 2 channels in digital, and one of them is Fox, ...


Just a quick note...we had similar issues, and at first tried using the old bunny ears. When we switched to the digital TV, we got maybe 8 digital stations, most of which broke up frequently -- so I was as frustrated as you sound, having just spent a bunch of cash on a new TV.

I went to Target and for $40, got a powered antenna especially for digital. Although this required extra moola, it also gets us about 30 digital stations, only 1 of which breaks up. BTW, we live in the country, about 30 miles away from two cities.

Before the digital stuff, we received 6 analog stations, which were badly affected by weather.



Side note: The changeover date is when the stations must cease analog broadcasts....they MAY start earlier if they so desire, so an extension doesn't really help the viewers.

I think it needs to be delayed, and here is why...

I have had my converter box for at least 6 months now, and have been experimenting with all possible locations of my antenna to get a clear signal. After an enormous amount of frustration, I have finally given up, and have stopped watching broadcast TV. I can regularly watch 2 channels in digital, and one of them is Fox, so that leaves me essentially screwed. It is my understanding that the Government performed VERY few in home tests to see whether the transition would work for those with bunny ears, and the tests they did do were mostly in homes with outdoor antennas 10m off the ground. :screwy:

The problem is that the government stepped in and mandated that private corporations change their practices without sufficient justification and also without sufficient research and development. The public has been accustomed to free over the air broadcast television for decades and are now being told that they will have to purchase and install outdoor antennas at a likely cost of hundreds of dollars (if they pay for labor). It's absurd, and it needs more time to fixed and set in motion correctly!

Try this site:http://www.antennaweb.org/aw/welcome.aspx It can help you select an antenna to work for your situation.

Just a quick note...we had similar issues, and at first tried using the old bunny ears. When we switched to the digital TV, we got maybe 8 digital stations, most of which broke up frequently -- so I was as frustrated as you sound, having just spent a bunch of cash on a new TV.

I went to Target and for $40, got a powered antenna especially for digital. Although this required extra moola, it also gets us about 30 digital stations, only 1 of which breaks up. BTW, we live in the country, about 30 miles away from two cities.

Before the digital stuff, we received 6 analog stations, which were badly affected by weather.


That's one thing, like it or not, about digital signals. It has to be "dead-on" to watch it. If there is anything that can interfere with the signal, then you won't be able to view it. At least with an analog signal you still can get a picture, albeit snowy and hard to view. That is going to be an issue for people living in rural area, or other areas far away from the broadcasting tower. ( Again refer to link earlier in this post for help.)
I've had Directv satellite service for almost a decade and about once or twice a year I can count on a temporary disruption in my signal due to a bad storm. I get major pixelation, and cut out and lose video and many times audio as well. I also had an issue with pixelation and picture cut out not due to weather factors, but rather a bad cable from the wall to the receiver , which was rectified with a new cable.Many times it's a simple fix to get the picture back,( such as tightening connections, check wiring, or aim of antenna, etc.)

I think it needs to be delayed, and here is why...


The problem is that the government stepped in and mandated that private corporations change their practices without sufficient justification and also without sufficient research and development. The public has been accustomed to free over the air broadcast television for decades and are now being told that they will have to purchase and install outdoor antennas at a likely cost of hundreds of dollars (if they pay for labor). It's absurd, and it needs more time to fixed and set in motion correctly!

Isn't that what government always does:iagree:

The problem is that the government stepped in and mandated that private corporations change their practices without sufficient justification and also without sufficient research and development.
:eek7:Sufficient justification? Go back and read post #18 in this thread and you'll see the justification. It will free up much needed frequencies for public safety communications. IIRC I read an article ( to which I searched but could not locate at this time, but anyways,) this has been in formulation at least since the mid 1990s. The law signed back in 2005 took root from early discussions a decade earlier. These things take time as everything else, and now we are seeing the results in the passage and implementation of the switchover.Which leads to:

The public has been accustomed to free over the air broadcast television for decades and are now being told that they will have to purchase and install outdoor antennas at a likely cost of hundreds of dollars (if they pay for labor). It's absurd, and it needs more time to fixed and set in motion correctly!
More time? The law was signed back in 2005 and there have been enough media coverage about it. How much time do we need? It's not like it was thrown at us overnight and we were expected to comply immediately. No matter what happens in this country when something like this occurs, there will always be a segment of the population that won't be ready and needs their hand to be held in order to follow through.
As far as the antenna goes, go to Youtube and type in "DTV antenna' or similar words and you will see videos on how to build your own homemade, working antenna made with items from around your house( or nearest big box home improvement center) like coat hangers and PVC pipes. For little to no cost plans to build your own and save money.

On a side note, check out this site i came across while looking for an article about the history of the signal switch:http://www.davidicke.com/forum/showthread.php?t=49931
That should make for some interesting conversations here. :lol: :rolleyes:

And come June 12 the same issue will arise. :rolleyes: No wonder countries in Europe are way ahead of us in converting to their version of DTV and they don't have the coupons either or limited financial assistance mainly for the elderly only.

Just for anecdotal data we had a fast moving low pressure area/storm move through with some snow flurries and I noticed the DTV signal strength never dropped below 75% signal strength and the picture to include sound on all DTV channels was crystal clear with no visible degradation. I use a standard old fashioned VHF/UHF outside aerial antenna strapped to my chimney but with shielded coaxial cable all through out to the one analog TV that runs on the DTV converter. It was so simple to setup you can train a monkey to do it.

:eek7:Sufficient justification? Go back and read post #18 in this thread and you'll see the justification. It will free up much needed frequencies for public safety communications. Where is the proof that more frequencies are NEEDED for "public safety communications"?IIRC I read an article ( to which I searched but could not locate at this time, but anyways,) this has been in formulation at least since the mid 1990s. The law signed back in 2005 took root from early discussions a decade earlier. These things take time as everything else, and now we are seeing the results in the passage and implementation of the switchover.Which leads to:


More time? The law was signed back in 2005 and there have been enough media coverage about it. How much time do we need? It's not like it was thrown at us overnight and we were expected to comply immediately. No matter what happens in this country when something like this occurs, there will always be a segment of the population that won't be ready and needs their hand to be held in order to follow through.
As far as the antenna goes, go to Youtube and type in "DTV antenna' or similar words and you will see videos on how to build your own homemade, working antenna made with items from around your house( or nearest big box home improvement center) like coat hangers and PVC pipes. For little to no cost plans to build your own and save money.

On a side note, check out this site i came across while looking for an article about the history of the signal switch:http://www.davidicke.com/forum/showthread.php?t=49931
That should make for some interesting conversations here. :lol: :rolleyes:

I believe what's in that article is true.
If you beleive what the Bible says about the end times it makes sense.

Well, today is the original deadline. This is interesting. To date 641 stations did the switch regardless of the new June 12 deadline.




421 Stations To Pull Analog Plug on Feb. 17
A total of 641 stations--more than one third of country--will have made DTV transition by original hard date
By John Eggerton -- Broadcasting & Cable, 2/16/2009


The FCC released its latest DTV figures Monday, and 421 stations will terminate their analog signals as of midnight on Tuesday, Feb. 17.

Adding in the 220 stations that have already shut off their analog signals, or will on Monday, a total of 641 stations--or 36% of the country--will have made the switch by the original Feb. 17 hard date. Congress moved the date to June 12 at the urging of the then Obama transition team.

http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/174278-421_Stations_To_Pull_Analog_Plug_on_Feb_17.php

I just checked my T.V., no cable or satellite and no converter box yet (Friday my friend will give me one):iceslolan
But I STILL get my local channels.

One converter Box & outside Philco antennia from WMT for $46.00.
We got 25channels and cancelled TWX.

One converter Box & outside Philco antennia from WMT for $46.00.
We got 25channels and cancelled TWX.

Is TWX a cable provider?
Thats great if you can get 25 channels w/o cable or satellite service.

TWX = Time Warner cable

We were able to cut Channels,DVR recorder,and digital phone service and
saved 75%. :grinyes:

I still have High Seed Data for Computers + MajicJack phone service

TWX = Time Warner cable

We were able to cut Channels,DVR recorder,and digital phone service and
saved 75%. :grinyes:

I still have High Seed Data for Computers + MajicJack phone service

That makes me even more eager to get my converter box.
I haven't had cable/satellite service in at least three years.
I don't really miss it either.

That makes me even more eager to get my converter box. I haven't had cable/satellite service in at least three years. I don't really miss it either.

:werd:

However, do us a favor and just don't wait 'til the last minute. :grinno:

Keep in mind some people are experiencing problems so that is a factor to be considered. We got rid of any cable or satellite service when our kids grew up and headed out the door. Personally, I prefer watching videos or doing other hobbies.

With the advent of technological advances in the past few years such as being able to watch tv shows online, videos online, and other ways of watching tv on your computer, many people are getting rid of their extra services,(cable and satellite.) They are migrating to their computer to do much of what they did in the past with cable/satellite, only now it can be on their schedule. The website www.pcmag.com has some interesting articles on how you can use your computer to replace many of the things you were only able to do with paid subscription services only a few years ago. I'm seriously thinking of going that route if I can't get a better rate out of my satellite provider, who just happened to send me a letter last week outlining their latest price increase. ( I've been waiting a couple of years for FiOS TV to enter our market, but it's been delayed ...again. Their internet is excellent.

With the advent of technological advances in the past few years such as being able to watch tv shows online, videos online, and other ways of watching tv on your computer, many people are getting rid of their extra services,(cable and satellite.)

Thats a good point Tom. Speaking of when I upgraded my PC monitor last year I got a Viewsonic 22" Flat Panel LCD display which is HD ready so all I need to add is a digital or HD digital tuner to the PC and just tap into the same 20-22 element unidirectional VHF/UHF antenna I use for DTV and regular broadcasts. Nothing fancy but works like a champ. Surely beats an indoor antenna if you live in a house and it was not that expensive. I'm surprised how many Mexican DTV channels we get since we are right on the border. Many of them broadcast in DTV and HD too.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y186/lizzywiz/DSC05769.jpg

Thats a good point Tom. Speaking of when I upgraded my PC monitor last year I got a Viewsonic 22" Flat Panel LCD display which is HD ready so all I need to add is a digital or HD digital tuner to the PC and just tap into the same 20-22 element unidirectional VHF/UHF antenna I use for DTV and regular broadcasts. Nothing fancy but works like a champ. Surely beats an indoor antenna if you live in a house and it was not that expensive. I'm surprised how many Mexican DTV channels we get since we are right on the border. Many of them broadcast in DTV and HD too.

I've got a 22" monitor myself that I got pretty cheap online a couple years ago. I constantly see devices you can buy for @ $50 to $60 that allow you to watch HD TV on your computer. You can also use your computer as a DVR and record shows when you aren't home. I see these devices on www.woot.com every once in awhile and other electronics parts sites I visit regularly, so the equipment is out there, all one has to do is configure something to work for them.
Here is something I see advertised on Woot once in a while: http://www.pinnaclesys.com/PublicSite/us/Products/Consumer+Products/PCTV/PCTV/

(BTW, I came across a 26" monitor last week on one of the sites for $169. About $30 less than I paid for my 22" at staples.com 2yrs ago on sale.)

:werd:

However, do us a favor and just don't wait 'til the last minute. :grinno:

Keep in mind some people are experiencing problems so that is a factor to be considered. We got rid of any cable or satellite service when our kids grew up and headed out the door. Personally, I prefer watching videos or doing other hobbies.

My friend that is going to give me a converter box just informed me that movers boxed her converter she is going to give me so I need to wait until she is moved (across town a couple miles) then she will unpack it and give it to me!:rolleyes:

I constantly see devices you can buy for @ $50 to $60 that allow you to watch HD TV on your computer. You can also use your computer as a DVR and record shows when you aren't home. I see these devices on www.woot.com every once in awhile and other electronics parts sites I visit regularly, so the equipment is out there, all one has to do is configure something to work for them.

Here is something I see advertised on Woot once in a while: http://www.pinnaclesys.com/PublicSite/us/Products/Consumer+Products/PCTV/PCTV/

Were you planning on buying one of those? I was looking at the stuff from Hauppauge.

www.hauppauge.com

Personally, I think one of the greatest things since apple pie with PCs is wireless and sharing broadband. I just connected my extra PC this past week in one of the bedrooms. Saved having to run cable.

Were you planning on buying one of those? I was looking at the stuff from Hauppauge.

www.hauppauge.com

Personally, I think one of the greatest things since apple pie with PCs is wireless and sharing broadband. I just connected my extra PC this past week in one of the bedrooms. Saved having to run cable.
I haven't decided yet. I did receive an email today from a company I have tried their software in the past, so I'm on their mailing list. It is a program that allows you watch tv on your computer. http://www.dtvforpc.com/ash/main_nflf/e/index.html#back#back I'm throwing this out there as info for those that may be interested.

I haven't decided yet. I did receive an email today from a company I have tried their software in the past, so I'm on their mailing list. It is a program that allows you watch tv on your computer. http://www.dtvforpc.com/ash/main_nflf/e/index.html#back#back I'm throwing this out there as info for those that may be interested.

That is very interesting Tom. Did you click on the link for prices. $19.99 one time fee? Sounds too good to be true but you never know. Do plan on getting it? :grinyes:

That is very interesting Tom. Did you click on the link for prices. $19.99 one time fee? Sounds too good to be true but you never know. Do plan on getting it? :grinyes:

I wouldn't trust their software if it is offered for free, it would probably be spyware, malware or adware of some kind.

I wouldn't trust their software if it is offered for free, it would probably be spyware, malware or adware of some kind.

As a user of some of their other software products, I can say that they do not contain spyware, malware or adware. They have been reviewed by P C Magazine and that is how I found out about their products,through pcmag.com's recommendation.
Besides, you should be running a good anti-spyware/malware/adware program on your computer in the first place.
A lot of companies offer their software for free or greatly reduced prices as an incentive for people to try, in hopes they will like it and buy other products they offer,9 at a higher price.) It's done in almost any industry.

As a user of some of their other software products, I can say that they do not contain spyware, malware or adware. They have been reviewed by P C Magazine and that is how I found out about their products,through pcmag.com's recommendation.
Besides, you should be running a good anti-spyware/malware/adware program on your computer in the first place.
A lot of companies offer their software for free or greatly reduced prices as an incentive for people to try, in hopes they will like it and buy other products they offer,9 at a higher price.) It's done in almost any industry.


When I had AVG, a reputable AV software running, a wrong click on a pop-up installed AV360, a program with a Tojan bug on it. It blocked all access to sites using explorer web browser but not Firefox, I'm still trying to irradicate it.
"The Tech Guy" on the radio says some of that malware can actually turn off antimalware from an AV program on your computer.

When I had AVG, a reputable AV software running, a wrong click on a pop-up installed AV360, a program with a Tojan bug on it. It blocked all access to sites using explorer web browser but not Firefox, I'm still trying to irradicate it.
"The Tech Guy" on the radio says some of that malware can actually turn off antimalware from an AV program on your computer.

Check out this link:http://www.syracuse.com/poststandard/stories/index.ssf?/base/living-6/1237453081203240.xml&coll=1
The guy writes a technology column for our paper and also has had a local radio show dealing with computers. He is from our area. This article appeared in our newspaper yesterday, and after reading it am seriously considering switching over to Avast and removing my AVG. I just upgraded to the new AVG 8.5 when prompted to last week, and find with each new version, the free version seems less user friendly.

Check out this link:http://www.syracuse.com/poststandard/stories/index.ssf?/base/living-6/1237453081203240.xml&coll=1
The guy writes a technology column for our paper and also has had a local radio show dealing with computers. He is from our area. This article appeared in our newspaper yesterday, and after reading it am seriously considering switching over to Avast and removing my AVG. I just upgraded to the new AVG 8.5 when prompted to last week, and find with each new version, the free version seems less user friendly.


Well late last night I was finally able to get the file of the scan of my computer from "Hijack This" attached to an e-mail and sent to AVG (headquartered in Australia) this morning, although no email back from AVG, I checked internet Explorer on my computer and there is NO SIGN of it being held hostage by AV360. I'm thinking AVG must have been able to fix the problem. (hopefully!):rofl:

My wife's sister informed me that she received her $40 DTV coupon after the big delay so the funding is now there. If you need the converter get it before it is too late.

My wife's sister informed me that she received her $40 DTV coupon after the big delay so the funding is now there. If you need the converter get it before it is too late.

And to add to that, if you currently have an expired DTV coupon, you can reapply for a new one: http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/24/dtv-voucher-waitlist-gone-expired-coupon-holders-can-re-apply/

And to add to that, if you currently have an expired DTV coupon, you can reapply for a new one: http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/24/dtv-voucher-waitlist-gone-expired-coupon-holders-can-re-apply/:shakehead

I am already feeling stressed by Obamas stimulus package.
I DON"T want to be his slave!
He can keep those coupons as far as I'm concerned! :puke:

:shakehead

I am already feeling stressed by Obamas stimulus package.
I DON"T want to be his slave!

He can keep those coupons as far as I'm concerned! :puke:


:confused:

The program started with the Bush administration so whats the difference? The clock is ticking. :uhoh:.......:lol: I'll put money on the table that a whole bunch of people will not be ready for the final deadline in June.

:confused:

The program started with the Bush administration so whats the difference? The clock is ticking. :uhoh:.......:lol: I'll put money on the table that a whole bunch of people will not be ready for the final deadline in June.

That may be true, but it is still a product of the left wing liberals, of which Obama is the leader now.

Well late last night I was finally able to get the file of the scan of my computer from "Hijack This" attached to an e-mail and sent to AVG (headquartered in Australia) this morning, although no email back from AVG, I checked internet Explorer on my computer and there is NO SIGN of it being held hostage by AV360. I'm thinking AVG must have been able to fix the problem. (hopefully!):rofl:

I use The Ultimate Boot CD to remove Trojans and viruses. You can download the software for free and create your own boot CD or order one for a small fee.

You boot the PC off the CD or a USB stick bypassing all the Trojans and hijackers that load into memory then use the anti spy ware and anti hijacker software on the CD to clean your hard drive. SpybotSD seems to find the most, one PC that came into my shop was seriously hijacked and SpybotSD found and cleaned over 1500 infections on that one PC.

http://www.ultimatebootcd.com/download.html