CET Tech Info

We've Moved!

2010-04-19T13:49:00.005-04:00

We’ve Moved! I have combined two technology blogs into one. Just Click Here and you will be linked. I will continue to answer questions about technology, CET and Public Broadcasting. I look forward to hearing from you.

I Can't Find What Is On CET!

2010-01-12T08:37:00.004-05:00

I got a great call yesterday from a viewer. While she was very pleasant and polite, she was also very frustrated with us at CET. She is a loyal viewer, but is having trouble knowing what is on our various channels. She was asking if we planned to “print” a comprehensive Program Guide.

While we do a publish a printed guide for some of the channels and time periods, I explained to her that the volume of information, the number of programs and channels precluded the “printing” and “mailing” of a complete guide. I pointed her to http://www.cetconnect.org/. While the complete schedule for the channels is there, she noted that she did not have a computer at home and that she has been unable to “print” the information at the library. (BTW - We are working on that problem right now working with our partners at the Cincinnati & Hamilton County Public Library.)

The root issue is important and to tell you the truth we, and others, have yet to find a good way to provide up-to-date program information for all our channels that is available to everyone and within out limited budget. We continue to study the problem and would solicit your ideas.

If you want to share your ideas, please send them to me at jdominic@cetconnect.org
Perhaps as a group we can come up with some better ideas.

Audio and Video out of Synch?

2009-12-02T11:00:00.001-05:00

We get many questions about audio synch problems. Watching lips move and hearing the words a second or two later is really distracting. For sure there are times when the problem is caused at the broadcaster’s facility. Many times however the problem is in your TV set, or more often, in the cable set top box.

The next time you have this problem, try turning off the cable box for a few seconds and then turning it back on. I know first hand that at my house this often fixes the problem. If you are not on cable, you can do the same thing with your TV set.

I am not sure of the reason. It may be that there is a an audio buffer that gets overloaded in the cable box or TV and turning it off empties the buffer.
No matter, it works

Why does my DTV converter shut off?

2009-11-30T10:42:00.006-05:00

My converter box turns off after a certain amount of time after the TV is off. So if I program the VCR in the morning to tape a show in the evening, it does not tape because the converter box has automatically turned off after a certain amount of time. Is there anyway to make it so my converter box does not turn off so that the VCR can tape a show that evening or do I have to leave the TV on?

MW

Answer:

Most all converter boxes come from the factory with the "ENERGY Saving" feature activated. This feature is most often set to turn the box "OFF" after 3 hours unless some interaction has been detected from the remote, i.e. change channels, adjust sound etc. This feature can be turned off or reset for a different duration. If you are using the box and VCR, I suggest that you turn "off" the feature so that the DTV converter never goes off by itself. Remember, when not using the box to watch TV or for recording, you should turn it off as it does use electricity, albeit a small amount, and some of the converters get very hot.

Since I don't know the model of DTV converter you have I can't tell you where to find the setting. I am sure if you will go to the menu on the remote you will find the place to toggle this feature "off." Look for "settings" or "power settings"

I don't think that the TV being "on" or "off" has anything to do with your issue.

This is a very common question. If you still have your instruction manual, I am sure it is covered in there as well.

Jack

Channel 48 Back (almost)

2009-09-16T11:15:00.004-04:00

For those who have had difficulty receiving CET over-the-air, I am happy to report that we have made repairs are back on our virtual channels 48-1 and 48-2. On some televisions and Set Top Converters you may need to delete 34-3, 34-4, and 34-5 and then do a rescan to pick us up correctly. On most TVs and converters a simple rescan will pick us up. We don't have the program guide working but it should be available soon.

If you are on cable or use a satellite service you don’t need to do anything.

Problems Getting CET?

2009-09-14T09:32:00.001-04:00

Saturday night we had a power outage the studio building and we are still working on some issues with damaged equipment. You may have lost the Channel 48 over-the-air broadcasts on your converter boxes and / or digital TV Sets. Please rescan and you will pick us up on 34-1, 34-2, and 34-3. The 34-3 is the World channel. There will not be a program guide on this channel.

Sorry for the problems. With digital systems, reliable power is critical even with back up systems in place. We continue to work with Duke Energy to try to minimize the number of power outages in our part of downtown Cincinnati.

How To Find Your Public TV Channels

2009-08-25T13:08:00.002-04:00

If you are a Time Warner Cable customer, you already know that some major changes in the channel line up and selection have been implemented today. You will still find “good old” CET on Basic Cable service either on Channel 8 or 13 in most communities but many of the public television digital channels have been deleted or moved to new channel assignments.

I have put a grid together that includes all local public TV channels. I hope that it helps you navigate through these changes. Just Click Here to get a copy of the grid.

How To Find Your Public TV Channels

2009-08-25T13:05:00.001-04:00

CET/ThinkTV to Continue Discussions

2009-08-14T08:19:00.004-04:00

We have been getting calls and emails regarding some upcoming changes in the public TV channels available locally on Time Warner Cable.

On July 23, Time Warner Cable informed southwestern Ohio’s public television stations, CET and ThinkTV16 & 14 that the Cincinnati and Dayton cable systems would be making programming and channel changes beginning on August 25. The changes include significantly cutting the number of public television channels available to Time Warner customers.

On July 30, 2009, at our request, we met with a Time Warner representative. We proposed a channel line-up for public television that, while reducing the number of channels, would assure:

1. That all Time Warner customers, including those with basic cable service, would continue to receive the local PBS stations that they have watched and enjoyed for decades.

2. That customers who subscribe to Time Warner’s digital program services continue to receive public television’s variety of DTV programming.

In short, we want to make sure that Time Warner provides its southwestern Ohio customers their local Ohio-based public television stations. To that end we are continuing a dialog with the company to assure consistent public television service throughout the region – and reduce viewer and Time Warner customer confusion about the changes being made so quickly. We plan to meet today to continue that discussion.

As we learn more, we will continue to inform you, our viewers and members.

DTV Audio Still Needs Work

2009-07-31T13:57:00.002-04:00

One of the questions I often get now that we are finally and totally converted to digital broadcasting has to do with the increased frequency of audio problems on TV programs? The most prevalent and irritating problems are the increased instances of lip sync errors. We have all experienced it. The person speaking and the audio track are not in sync. Sometimes it is so pronounced and distracting that it makes the program unwatchable. Watching a drummer hit the drum or guitarist strum a chord only to hear the lick 2 seconds later is not pretty.

In the old days, before digital broadcasting, most often lip sync problems were caused by the circuitous path the video program traveled from its source to your living room. For example, news reports coming from Europe or Asia, because they were being transmitted using two or more satellite hops, had many incidents of audio delay and audio / video separation.

Today’s problems seem to be more pronounced and harder to fix. In the analog days the audio and video for a TV program were transmitter separately to your TV. They were joined inside the TV set. With digital, from the very beginning, the audio and video are all part of one stream of “1”s and “0”s and once joined they can’t easily be pulled apart. So if the audio is out of sync at the source there is virtually nothing you can do to fix it.

There are some instances where the problem is in your TV set or cable set top box. I have noticed that with some Time Warner set top cable boxes when a program has a lip sync problem you can fix it by powering down the cable box for a few seconds and then turning it back on. I am betting that this is a bug in the box where by its buffer gets filled. Turning it off clears the buffer. I am not sure, but my fix does work. I have tried this on some digital TVs as well with mixed success.

Another audio issue is the varying audio level or loudness. This is often experienced when a station switches from the network to a local source. The most pronounced is on Channel 12’s second channel The CW. When they go to the 10 PM news the audio level jumps almost 50%. Why? Because someone is not paying attention at the station.

Here is hoping that stations and networks will begin to pay as much attention to what we hear as they do to what we see.

DTV Reception Help

2009-07-02T13:57:00.001-04:00

Now that the digital dust has settled a bit and all local TV stations have abandoned their analog channels for the new fangled digital replacement channels, there are still many people who are having problems receiving the transmissions over-the-air using an antenna. After reading and listening to all the expert opinions and recommendations, it is no wonder that many people are confused and, in some cases, frustrated. I thought I would add to the dialog and provide some information that may help you if you are having problems getting all the local channels using an antenna. Cable and satellite subscribers can stop reading right now.

While digital and analog over-the-air TV transmissions use essentially the same technology, digital signals are more prone to problems than the analog. Problems with analog TV reception appeared on your TV as “snow” or “ghosting.” Problems with digital signals are much more evident. They result in no picture or sound at all.

No matter if you have a new digital TV or are using a set top converter box, the key to good reception is the antenna. Depending on where you live, you may either be able to use a standard “rabbit ears” antenna or you will need something more sensitive. If you get good reception on all the channels, great. If you don’t, here are some tips.

Make sure that your antenna is designed to receive both UHF and VHF signals. While most digital broadcasting is done in the UHF band, in Cincinnati channels 9 and 12 use VHF. If your antenna has both a round loop and two telescoping rods, it is a UHF/VHF model for sure. But there are many new designs so read the box if you are buying a new one.

Try an amplified set top antenna. This often will do the trick for people living in areas that are about 20 - 25 miles from most of the TV transmitters. Keep in mind, though, that amplified antennas and digital signals are strange bedfellows. This might seem counterintuitive, but if you are having problems and already are using an amplified antenna, turn it off. Strange as it is, too much signal is as bad as too little signal. The amplifier almost always helped analog signals but not so digital signals. Always start with no amplifier and then add it if you are not getting the channels.

A better antenna can also help. While there is no such thing as an HDTV antenna, there are many new designs for antennas that make them more sensitive and therefore better for digital broadcast applications. Some of them look nothing like the ones we used in our youth….you know, we attached aluminum foil to them in order to get “Bonanza” to come in clearly. Manufactures like Terk have a wide selection of both indoor and outdoor models.

Speaking of outdoor models... For sure, a good outdoor antenna pointed toward downtown Cincinnati will be your best option. You can get unbiased suggestions for the right antenna for your location at http://www.antennweb.org/. Just type in your zip code and it will give you good advice.

Finally, there are some locations that no amount of amplification or antenna design or height will overcome. I hope you are not in one of these areas but, if you are, cable or satellite are your only options.

Welcome to All Digital Broadcast TV

2009-06-12T10:25:00.001-04:00

Well, the day is finally here and the rest of the local TV stations have joined the ranks of the “all digital.” CET and ThinkTV ceased analog broadcasting on May 1. The number of phone calls and emails has lessened dramatically since we became all digital.

There is no doubt that there are will continue to be some challenges for those who chose eschew cable or a satellite service for TV reception. There are also come great benefits.

This morning I rescanned the digital TV’s in our lobby in downtown Cincinnati. On one of the TVs we have a DTV converter box and a set top antenna. The TV scanned, stored and now displays some 25 channels. That same TV in the analog days would have been able to receive 7 channels at the most then some of them would have been very snowy.

For sure there are some who are still having issues setting up the converter boxes or new DTV sets. Many non-profit social service groups are trying to help. There is a toll free line that is matching volunteers with people who need help. 1-888-225-5222

Common DTV Reception Problem

2009-05-07T09:33:00.011-04:00

One of the issues that has taken us by surprise as we take callers' questions is the number of people who have had digital sets for years and have never set them up so they have never watched Digital ot HD. I am getting three or four calls a day complaining that "they have an expensive HD set and all of sudden they can't get CET." When asked, I find that they lost CH 64 a few months ago. This of course is the dead give away....Once I walk the viewer through set up they are amazed at the difference. For the first time they are actually watching Digital and HD.

I guess it us somewhat understandable...In the past you bought a radio or TV at the store, brought it home, plugged it in and tuned to the station you wanted to watch or listen to. Now if you do that you will be able to see the analog channels ( up until June 12 at least) but if the digital channels are not scanned and stored in the TV's memory after an initial scan, you will not get them and in most cases you can't manually tune to them.

You do need to read the instructions that came with the set.

CET, All Digital All The Time

2009-05-01T10:24:00.003-04:00

Early this morning at 12:01 AM, CET turned off the analog transmitter once and for all. This transition has been many years in the making and is the result of wonderful community support and board leadership.

We are staffed to handle any increase in calls from viewers who may have some problems. So far today there have been very few. Perhaps our aggressive information campaign has paid off. We will be here during the evening hours as well as some people may not realize they have a problem until they try to watch us this evening.

If you have questions send them to techinfo@cetconnect.org

FCC...Better Late Than Never!

2009-04-22T11:18:00.003-04:00

The FCC has vastly improved the DTV information available on the Web. The New Site has some great information and resources. You can even plug in your zip code to get information on all the over-the-air channels available in your area.

This is a great resource...kudos to the FCC

Click here to go to the new FCC DTV page

Record Digital Channels on Analog VHS or DVD

2009-04-22T09:05:00.002-04:00

We still get lots of questions about using your old analog VHS or DVD machines to record digital signals off the air. I prepared a simple wiring diagram that will help you set up your analog recorder. You will not get high definition or wide screen quality. The programs will be recorded in the same format and quality that you see on your analog set. You will not be able to easily use the timer functions either.

This does provide an inexpensive way to record Digital over-the-air TV.

Click here to get a copy of the wiring diagram

May 1st ... Just Around the Corner

2009-04-21T13:41:00.001-04:00

On April 15th the KET network, covering all public TV stations in Kentucky, went all digital and on this coming Friday, May 1 at 12:01 AM, all local Public Stations - CET 48, ThinkTV 14 in Cincinnati and ThinkTV16 in Dayton - will go all digital.

So are you ready? As I have written so many times, if you are a cable subscriber or get your TV from a satellite provider, this is a non issue for you. If you have a new digital set and use an antenna (set-top rabbit ears or outdoor roof-top) you already are getting the digital signals. For those who want to keep using their trusty old 1985 Sony, you can use a DTV converter.

Here are a few updates to help you get ready:

You can still obtain up to 2 coupons per household from the Federal Government. Each coupon is worth $40 toward the purchase of a DTV converter. The converters are available in most electronics stores and cost about $60. So with the coupon you can buy one for about $20. To get a coupon call 808-388-2009 or go online to www.dtv2009.gov.

Locally Channel 64 is already broadcasting only in digital and the other commercial stations will cease analog broadcasting in mid June.

Most people will get good over-the-air reception with a set top UHF/VHF antenna. Some who live in valleys might need an outdoor antenna. Don’t automatically go for an amplified antenna since with digital broadcasting, too much signal can be as bad as too little.

All the local TV stations are already broadcasting at full power so what you get now is what you will get after all the analog stations go away. There is no reason to wait.

Don’t forget, when you wake up Friday morning, May 1st, public TV in the Cincinnati / Dayton area will be digital only.

It Is Hard To Keep Up

2009-04-13T07:56:00.001-04:00

This week, with your indulgence, I thought I might depart from my more traditional “nuts and bolts…what’s in it for you” column and share some observations about the impact of the changes in technology on our daily lives. Part of this is a reaction to some comments I get from readers. Many express a frustration on how quickly things are changing and how hard it is to keep up with even the simple things in life like watching TV. This got me to thinking and looking a bit more deeply into the topic.

Simply put, like it or not, our advanced technology has forced us and the rest of the world into a rate of change that is nothing short of exponential. We may not like it, we may not want it, but it is here and only going to get even more pronounced. There are several examples.

It took radio about 40 years to get to 50 million regular users. Television took just 14 years to reach this same level. The Internet went from 0 to 50 million users in just 4 years. In 1984 there were about 1000 devices connected to the Internet. In 2008 it is estimated that more than 1 billion devices were Internet based. This one must put a smile on Steve Jobs’ face: the iPod™ reached 50 million in just 2 years.

Enough about sales of products and services. What does this mean for other parts of our society? While I should leave education to the pros like Chris Brown and his folks over at the Board of Education, I did come across some factoids that would surely keep me up at night if I was in his shoes. I read recently that one of the challenges facing educators is that they are charged with educating kids for jobs and careers that don’t yet exist using technology that has not yet been invented to solve problems that we haven’t yet identified. OK Chris, what are you doing in your spare time? Another education guru wrote that for college students in four year technical programs, 50% of what they learn as freshmen will be out of date by graduation.

So what are we to do? Living in a society where 2 weeks of articles in the New York Times contains more information than a well educated 18th century scholar would know in a lifetime, can we ever hope to keep up?

Well, it seems to me that coupled with helping students and employees to embrace change, we need to make sure that they can think critically. There is a big difference between knowing the “innards” of a specific technology and knowing the appropriate application. The latter requires thinking skills beyond computational facility. This is not just a challenge to schools but workplace training as well.

Just my observations…back to a regular column next week.

TV Dinners Make a Digital Comeback

2009-03-31T08:28:00.005-04:00

In 1953, the Swanson Company introduced Americans to the TV Dinner. Since that time millions of little aluminum foil trays of chicken, peas and mashed potatoes the consistency of Play-Doh™ have been baked in ovens all over this country. This not only has contributed to landfill problems with all that aluminum going into the garbage, it has wasted energy, since traditional ovens are used to cook these dinners.

Well, the TV dinner has gone digital and the environment will be better for it.There is a new high tech start up company in the Silicon Valley that will introduce a line of TV dinners this week. They promise that the dinners will be both nutritious and environmentally friendly.

The company, DigiEaT Systems (http://www.dietsyst.com/com) is partnering with several TV makers to take advantage of a little known byproduct of the new digital over-the-air broadcasting.Most people don’t realize that over-the-air broadcasting makes use of high frequency radio waves. These microwaves are the same waves that are concentrated in the microwave oven in your kitchen. Concentrating these waves on your popcorn or your TV dinner makes them heat up and cook very efficiently.

DigiEaT has contracted with LG, the world’s largest Digital TV manufacturer, to develop a TV set that has a special slot into which you can insert the new TV dinners. Gone is the aluminum foil packaging since this would disrupt the flow of microwaves. Instead, all packaging is made of the recycled paper from TV Guide Magazine making them very environmentally friendly.

Once inserted into the TV, the user will select the cooking time by changing the channel number on the tuner. The higher the channel number selected the faster the dinner will cook. Since it takes more power to transmit video on Channel 48 than it does for Channel 9, these dinners will certainly be popular with Public TV viewers and may even attract new ones to CET/PBS.

DigiEaT and LG plan to have dinners and compatible TVs in stores on April 1st.

There Is No Going Back Now!

2009-03-18T11:24:00.004-04:00

The first licensed public television station in the nation, will cease analog service on Friday, May 1 at 12:01 a.m. Yesterday we filed the paperwork with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to cease analog transmission prior to the June 12 deadline set by Congress. In order to shut down analog transmission early, stations had to inform the FCC by March 17.

I know this can be a confusing transition for some viewers. That is why we have a number of resources available on our website, CETconnect.org, to help consumers prepare themselves for this transition.

You can log on to CETconnect.org for information on the DTV switch, including how to obtain coupons for converter boxes, frequently asked questions and diagrams and videos that demonstrate how to install converter boxes. You can also look at previous posts on this blog. Of course I will updated it regularly with DTV news and tips.

In addition to the resources available online, you can call CET’s Tech Info line at 513-345-6512 for more information or send an e-mail to techinfo@cetconnect.org. CET staff will also be available to take calls and e-mails from individuals that have questions after the switch has taken place.

Don’t forget to connect that DTV Converter…NOW! You can still order coupons.

Why Is My Picture So Small?

2009-03-03T08:27:00.001-05:00

The delay in shutting down CET’s analog broadcasting service has had some unintended implications for some of our viewers especially those who are still using an analog TV set and over-the-air reception rather than cable or satellite. I won’t try to wow you with the technical lingo; suffice it to say that because PBS changed all of the program feeds in anticipation of the all digital environment, stations like CET need to convert them to continue to offer them in the analog format as well as the in digital and HD versions.

We are working through these issues and in the short term analog over-the-air viewers may see some strange things on their TV screens from time to time including smaller pictures or strangely cropped images. There may also be some audio problems.

Technical staff is working hard to address these problems. Once we convert to All Digital, these issues should disappear. Those still relaying on analog over-the-air reception should install a DTV converter as soon as possible. This will address most of the problems and also afford many more viewing options.

As always I would be happy to answer your technical questions. Just email techinfo@cetconnect.org or post a comment right here on the blog.

Single Remote for TV and Converter Box?

2009-02-17T13:38:00.001-05:00

I got a good question from a viewer asking if she could use the same remote control to operate both her analog TV set and the newly installed DTV Converter.

Here is what I sent her via email:

It depends. Some converter boxes come with remotes that can be programmed to operate BOTH the TV and the Converter box. Some do not. The manual that came with the Converter Box will have a section on programming the remote to address the TV and even the VCR. If the manual does not have such a section then most likely you can't use one remote.

There are universal remote controls that you can buy. Since some Converter Boxes do NOT use standard remote control codes it may not work either. If you buy a Universal Remote make sure that it clearly states on the package that it will control the model # of your TV and the model # of the Set Top Converter Box.

The same viewer asked about when she should begin using the Converter Box since the “Digital Conversion” was postponed.

I reminded her that HD and Digital TV has been broadcast over-the-air here in Cincinnati for more then three years. There is no reason to wait to begin using your converter. All the channels are there now....The February 17th date has nothing to do with the beginning of Digital. It was the date the ANALOG was to cease. That is now June 12th.

The Big Day Is Here ... Not!

2009-02-16T15:52:00.004-05:00

I thought that it might be a good idea to summarize where CET stands relating to turning off our analog broadcasting transmitter. For almost a year you have watched our spots and messages on CET informing you that on February 17, 2009, at the stroke of midnight, analog Channel 48 would be no more. We produced call in programs and set up phone banks to answer questions. We have this blog and a DTV call in hot line. We mailed out thousands of brochures explaining the change. All of this was done to get ready for the big transition. What Happened?

Well like it or not our federal government looked around and decided that our efforts and those of most other TV stations nationwide did not motivate enough people to get ready for digital-only broadcasting….so they changed the deadline. It is now set for Friday, June 12, 2009. But I would not hold my breath!

It is true that stations may request the FCC allow them to cease analog operation on February 17th but few have. CET was looking forward to signing off our aging and electricity hungry analog transmitter. We spend more than $6000 a month with our good friends at Duke Energy to keep it running.

After considering that CET would be among the few stations this area to be digital only if we did go off on February 17th and since we have already received more than 3000 calls to our analog telephone survey line , we decided to wait. We are not sure that we will wait until June 12th. In any case we must provide a minimum of 30 days notice if we plan to cease analog transmissions. So stay tuned and be sure to get that DTV converter set up.

CET Will Continue Analog Servic Beyond Feb. 17th

2009-02-06T20:55:00.005-05:00

Well the government has extended the analog broadcasting deadline. Stations may broadcast until June 12th. Since most of the stations in Cincinnati are going to continue analog broadcasting past February 17th CET has decided to remain on the air. If you are a viewer of our analog broadcast you will have noticed that we are conducting a survey. If you get CET only via analog over the air broadcasting and use and antenna we want to hear from you. Call our survey line at 345-6529 and follow the directions.

NewsHour Explains DTV Deadline Extension

2009-01-27T13:56:00.004-05:00

Looks like the government will postpone the DTV switch from February 17th until June 12th. The NewHour has two digital television conversion features I thought you may find interesting. The NewsHour aired a segment on Monday before the Senate vote. There is also online forum available where you can ask PBS’ CEO Paula Kerger and two other guests questions about the transition.

Hurry Up And Wait!

2009-01-22T11:20:00.001-05:00

No news yet on the proposed delay in the Analog Broadcast TV Shutdown which is now scheduled for February 17, 2009 at midnight. Currently there are two bills wending their way through the US Congress that will delay the shutdown well into the spring or summer of 2009.

While this seems like an easy call, the delay will add significantly to the operating costs of stations like CET and throw a monkey wrench into the myriad of technical modifications required to accomplish the switch for stations nationwide. These final changes were scheduled to begin on February 18th. Tower crews, equipment installers and other technicians, all of which are already in short supply since their craft is very specialized, have choreographed a schedule that now may need to be scrapped.

Some Observations From the DTV Readiness Test

2009-01-16T08:59:00.003-05:00

CET and all of the other local TV stations in Cincinnati conducted a DTV Readiness Test last evening. The test included the option for people to be connected to our phone bank with questions and concerns. According to our reports, more than 4,300 people from our local area called. Of that number more than 250 callers were connected directly to our help lines which were located at the CET studios. The line was staffed by both CET employees and representatives from the other local stations.

Here some observations about questions we received:

- Many people are still confused about waiting until February 18th to turn on their converters. THERE IS NO REASON TO WAIT. You can get all the current programming right now on the the digital channels as well as many more digital – only channels.

- Many people with new HD sets have not set them up properly to actually get HD. These new sets, just like DTV converters, need to be set up when you first turn them on. Read the instructions. The local DTV channels must be scanned in. If you just plug in the set and don’t set it up properly you may get only the analog channels even though you have a new digital set.

-You need an antenna (indoor or outdoor) than can receive both UHF and VHF channels.

CET has a lot of information available on line just CLICK HERE here to see it!

DTV Readiness Test Set for Thursday 1/15/2009

2009-01-13T09:02:00.002-05:00

We will be conducting another on-air DTV Readiness Test on CET this Thursday evening, January 15th. Again, in cooperation with all local TV stations, we will interrupt the 7:30 PM telecasts to remind people watching over the air on an analog TV, that this service will cease at Midnight, February 17th. Only those watching CET over-the-air with an analog TV will see this message. Those watching our digital channels or watching using a cable or satellite service will not see this interruption. We conducted a similar test on December 17th and received a steady stream of calls. In total more than 4000 area residents asked for information that evening.

We are monitoring the discussions in Washington relating to delaying the analog shut off. For sure we will keep you informed if the date should be extended. A delay will add significant expense to CET, as we pay some $6000 per month in electricity to power the analog transmitter and had budgeted that it would cease in February.

Remember there is a lot of good information regarding the DTV transition on CETconnect.org. Just click here to see it.

Some Converter Hints (A Video Primer)

2009-01-09T21:57:00.001-05:00

Several callers and emailers have asked about installing a set top DTV converter on their analog TV set. I put a short video together to answer the most frequently asked questions. Click here to watch it. If you have any other questions or ideas for future videos please send them to me. Just email them to me at techinfo@cetconnet.org
Jack

A Delay in Analog Shut Down?

2009-01-09T10:38:00.003-05:00

You may have read over the past few days that there is some discussion about delaying the shutdown of analog over-the-air broadcasting. Current Federal legislation requires CET and all other full-power TV stations to cease analog broadcasting at midnight on February 17, 2009.

Over the past three years, CET has expended great effort and made a significant financial commitment of more than $7.5 million to be ready for this switch. While we want to make sure that none of our viewers are unable to continue to watch our programs, a delay in shutting down our analog transmitter will result in added costs. We spend more than $6000 per month on electricity to power the analog transmitter. Repair and maintenance costs for the aging analog transmitter continue to increase. Our current operating budget was predicated on saving those dollars resulting from the shut off for the four remaining months in our fiscal year. For CET to absorb those costs at a time when several of our revenue sources have been cut will be difficult.

We have used this blog, our website and programming on air to help individuals with DTV questions and problems. We will continue to do so. We are committed to provide the best possible public television service to our community be it via analog or digital technology.

Jack

Chairman Martin's Comments

2009-01-06T11:46:00.003-05:00

I just returned from a presentation made by FCC Commission Chairman, Kevin Martin. The briefing was held at the Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency. The icy roads kept the audience somewhat limited. My guess is that with the media and general audience all counted, there were about 100 people.

Martin is visiting three Ohio cities today to call attention to the analog broadcasting shut off scheduled for midnight February 17th. The Cincinnati area has been surveyed and found to have a large number of people using antennas to watch TV rather than subscribing to a cable or satellite service. If you use an antenna to receive local channels you must convert your analog TV with a DTV converter box or purchase a new TV with a digital tuner.

Mr. Martin fielded several questions about the DTV Converter Coupon Program. Just today, the program announced that it had expended the entire amount of funds appropriated by Congress and that those now requesting coupons would be placed on a waiting list pending additional funding. Martin urged people to continue to request the coupons since more funds may be forthcoming.

He also heard many complaints about expired coupons. He noted that the agency responsible for the coupon program, NTIA, announced that the expired coupons would not be renewed. He suggested that individuals with expired coupons ask a friend or relative who did not need a converter box to request them. As long as you don’t sell the coupon to someone it is OK to transfer coupons to someone else.

Other questions asked at this presentation point to a significant lack of understanding about this pending change to the TV landscape. CET will do what we can to try to provide clear concise information.

jack

FCC Chairman Visits Tuesday

2009-01-05T08:03:00.003-05:00

Kevin Martin, the chairman of the FCC will be in Cincinnati on Tuesday to increase the press coverage and public awareness about the February 17th transition from analog to digital broadcasting. Martin will meet with me and the other local TV general managers at 8:45 at the Cincinnati-Hamilton County Community Action Agency 1740 Langdon Farm Road. That informal meeting with be followed by a pubic meeting at 9:30 where Chairman Martin will make some prepared comments and be available to answer questions.

All are welcome to attend the public meeting. You can call the agency at 513-569-1840
For more information. Martin will be traveling to Dayton and Columbus following the Cincinnati session.

I will share my observations of his remarks and visit after the meeting.

Jack

Using Your Old VCR To Record Digital Broadcasts

2008-12-30T11:20:00.002-05:00

One of the most frequently asked questions about the DTV conversion has to do with continuing to use your analog VCR.

Here are a few hints:

Yes, you can still play back all your tapes on your old analog set or any new digital set.

Yes, you can record digital broadcasts on a VCR. (Click here for instructions)

Yes, the quality of the picture from your VCR will be good when displayed on a new digital TV set, it will not be in HD or wide screen.

Holiday Greetings!

2008-12-23T15:02:00.001-05:00

Click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6djMDu3hGLo

Is Your TV Ready for the February Switch?

2008-12-15T10:54:00.001-05:00

This Wednesday at 7:31 PM CET will join with all of the other local TV broadcasters in a live “test” of your readiness for the digital conversion slated for midnight
FEBRUARY 17, 2009.

On Wednesday evening, if you are receive your programming “off the air” using an analog TV set and antenna, you will see a message on the screen lasting 5 minutes alerting you to the fact that your TV is not compatible with the digital transmissions that will be the only “over the air” TV technology available beginning in February 2009.

If you now receive your TV from Cable or a satellite service, you should not see this test message.

DTV Converter Coupons Available for Nursing Home Residents

2008-11-20T15:20:00.000-05:00

Good News! If you or someone you know lives in a Licensed Nursing Home, Intermediate Care or Assisted Living Facility they can now apply for a DTV Converter Coupon. There is a special form that must be filled out. You can get a copy by clicking here.

Don’t forget to tune in Sunday, November 23 @ 7PM for “DTV Ask Us” a live program that will allow you to call in with any questions about Digital TV. You can also ask questions in advance by sending them to techinfo@cetconnect.org

Jack

Want to know more about DTV?

2008-11-10T13:52:00.003-05:00

We are planning another call in show on Sunday, November 23 from 7 to 8 PM. This is a great opportunity to get your DTV questions answered. I will be joined by Neal Schmidt, Director of Technical Services at CET.

I would appreciate any questions ahead of time. You can send them to techinfo@cetconnect.org. You can phone in your questions during the show. If the last program is any indication, we will not have a chance to answer them all so getting them in early puts your question to the head of the line.

Tune in SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23 @ 7PM on CET

jack

Cincinnati City Council To Help With DTV Education

2008-10-07T08:20:00.001-04:00

Yesterday Cincinnati Councilperson Jeff Berding, invited representatives from all the local broadcasters to a City Hall briefing on the upcoming analog broadcast shut off. Mr. Berding is Chair of the Rules and Government Operation Committee. He called the meeting to see if there were ways that the City of Cincinnati might provide assistance to targeted population segments that may need extra help getting ready for an all digital over the air broadcasting service.

As we have discussed here several times, in order to receive local over-the-air broadcasts after February 17, 2009, you must have either a digital TV or have equipped you old analog set with a converter.

The Cincinnati area has a higher than average number of people who rely solely on over-the-air viewing and many of these people are not yet ready to receive the new digital signals. Many elderly and poor have neither the means nor the ability to make this switch without assistance.

Mr Berding and his colleagues on the committee are going to see if various city employees might be provided information that can be shared with city residents. For example, some may need assistance getting one of the government sponsored DTV converter coupons. Other may just need some help getting the converter connected.
As we get closer to the cut off you may want to contact your relatives that may need some help. Perhaps that favorite aunt or uncle or the nice lady down the street could use some help.

Why no Backup Power?

2008-09-25T19:23:00.001-04:00

With the spate of recent power outages you may have wondered why CET does not have back up power. The main reason is lack of funds. Unlike a radio and analog VHF TV stations, a UHF TV station like CET Channel 48, requires a tremendous amount of electrical power. When we last looked at it, a generator capable of powering our UHF analog transmitter and all the attendant air conditioning and cooling equipment at the Chickasaw Street location would cost in excess of $250,000. Since our transmitter is in Clifton and our studios are in the West End, we would need a generator at the studio as well. Again unlike radio, the equipment at the studio required to stay on the air also consumes significant electrical power … much more than we can afford.
The good news is that once we sign off the analog transmitter in February 2009 and switch to the digital transmitter, backup power may be possible. It seems that the digital transmitter requires only a fraction of the power than is needed for the analog system.
For those missing CET tonight I know this does not really help.
jack

What We Can Learn From Wilmington NC DTV Early Cut Off

2008-09-22T08:32:00.003-04:00

At the stroke on noon, Monday, September 8th, the residents on Wilmington, NC, became the first in the nation to see what it is like without TV. Well, not exactly, they were the first city in the nation to officially turn off the over-the-air analog TV broadcasting transmitters. This was part of a test conducted by the FCC to ascertain what might happen when the rest of the nation wakes up on Wednesday, February 18, 2009 to find that their analog over-the-air TV is no more.

The major TV stations in Wilmington ceased broadcasting analog signals after an extensive educational campaign. The campaign, which lasted months, urged over-the-air viewers to get ready for the switch by purchasing DTV converters, replacing old sets with new digital TVs or subscribing to a cable or satellite service. The campaign used TV and radio spots, newspaper articles, in–person presentations at churches, PTAs and other civic gatherings and even paid advertising in newspapers and magazines.

So what happened? The good news is that for most people it was a non event. Of course for those with cable or satellite services (the vast majority of TV viewers) there was no difference. For most of the over-the-air viewers, since they had heeded the warnings and prepared, it was also a non event. Nevertheless some 1500 called the hot line in the hours following the shut off. Many were confused. Others were angry that their inalienable right to watch “Wheel of Fortune” was compromised.

It is this last group that the federal government and the TV broadcasters are concerned about. This group is made up of procrastinators, those who may have trouble understanding what they need to do and a few who think that if they ignore a problem it will go away.

The phone bank reported that the two major issues among those who had purchased a DTV converter was that they waited till the last minute to connect it and for those who did connect it, the antenna that they were using was not appropriate for their location. So, they got none or only a few of the digital channels.

I know I sound like a broken record (for those who don’t know a “broken record “ refers to an old recording device using a plastic platter, that once damaged, would repeat the same section of the song over and over again) but NOW IS THE TIME TO MAKE YOUR SWITCH TO DIGITAL. If you are going to use DTV converters, get your coupons ( www.dtv2009.gov ) and purchase them now. Connect them now. You will not miss any of the programs you now enjoy since they are all being simulcast on the digital channels now. In fact you will have access to several new channels with a digital converter or new digital TV set..

By changing NOW to digital you will have the chance to identify any problems. For example, you may need a different antenna or need to move your existing antenna. Around these parts it is much easier to do that up on the roof in September or October than it is in January of February. Also trying to get professional help or DTV converters on February 18th will be a hassle at best.

Converter Coupons Exetended to Nursing Homes and PO Box Users

2008-09-18T07:51:00.005-04:00

Good news! On September 17 U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez announced that eligibility for TV converter box coupons has been extended to residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities, as well as post office box users. The rule change will take effect in 30 days.

As an early advocate of the rule change, NAB welcomes this move by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), which manages the coupon program. In March 2008, NAB sent a letter to NTIA urging the agency to revisit the policies, which were preventing thousands of eligible seniors from participating in the digital television transition converter box coupon program.

You can read the NTIA press release by clicking here.

You can download a coupon application form by clicking here

Transmitter Still Without Power

2008-09-16T09:09:00.001-04:00

We still have no electrical power at our transmitter location in Clifton and as such those who receive CET off air can not receive our programming. Likewise if you live in Northern Kentucky and get us on Insight Cable or receive CET via one of the satellite companies, you will not have access to CET. Those who have Time Warner Cable will be able to continue to get all our channels.

While we share the tower with WLWT, we do not share an emergency generator. That is why Channel 5 is on the air and we are not.

Obviously we will resume services as soon as possible. We appreciate your understanding.

Antennas Key To Good DTV Reception

2008-09-11T08:20:00.004-04:00

Wilmington, NC has made an early switch to all digital broadcasting as the commercial broadcasters turned off their analog signals at noon Monday. As we have discussed several time here, the rest of the nation's full-power television stations won't do the same until midnight Feb. 17, 2009. Wilmington was selected to cease analog broadcasting in order to see what problems others may face in February.

Preliminary reports show that an aggressive education campaign worked as less than 300 calls were received by the phone bank set up to help TV-less callers.

Most of the problems reported in Wilmington relate to antennas. This certainly corresponds to the trend we see in the calls we receive at CET. Antenna location and orientation are critical to good DVT over-the-air reception.

If you are an over-the-air TV household NOW IS THE TIME to connect a DTV converter or purchase a DTV set so you can make sure your antenna is going to be capable of getting your favorite stations. If you do need to purchase a new antenna or adjust the one already installed on the roof, now is the time. It will be a lot easier to work on the roof in warm sun and bright days than it will be with the snow, wind and cold of a typical Cincinnati February day.

Recommendations for Local TV Antenna Installations?

2008-09-09T08:49:00.003-04:00

I got a very good question from a CET viewer asking for help identifying a reputable company to install a roof top antenna. Since I have never hired anyone to do this type of work, I have no first hand information. Perhaps you do.

If you have had and experience with an installer I would appreciate hearing from you.

The whole antenna question is much more complicated with digital TV broadcasting since antenna orientation and sensitivity are critical for receiving ALL the local stations. To make it more confusing, some manufacturers are taking 30 year old antenna designs and putting them in new packages with the words..."for HDTV reception."

The reality is that the digital signals travel “through the air” much the same way that the analog signals do/did. The difference is that the digital receiver needs a much more robust signal to render the picture. An analog TV receiver takes any signal and displays it ...snow and all. A digital receiver will only display a perfect picture and if it does not have enough signal strength it will just ignore it.

This requires a good antenna and a good installation. In some cases, it may require (believe it or not) an antenna rotor just like your Aunt Matilda had back in 1951.

So if you have some experience with local antenna installers let me know. Just leave a comment here or send an email to tech-info@cetconnect.org.

Recording from the DTV Converter to a VCR

2008-09-02T15:00:00.004-04:00

While I have addressed this question before, since it continues to be one of the more common questions submitted on our techinfo line, I will discuss it again here.

You can record DTV programs on your analog VCR using a Set Top DTV Converter. Just connect the Converter to your VHS machine. You can attach it using the antenna cable. Connect the cable to the OUTPUT of the Converter and to the INPUT of the VCR. Tune the Converter to the channel you wish to record. Tune the VCR to channel 3.

While you can use the timer on the VCR to set the machine to record at some future time and date, YOU CAN NOT USE THE VCR PROGRAMMING FUNCTIONS TO CHANGE THE CHANNEL to be recorded. The VCR must be on channel 3 at all times. So if you are programming your VCR tell it to record CH 3 at the appropriate time and date. Do not enter the DTV channel #.

If you connect the Converter to the VCR using AV Cables, just follow the directions above and remember that you need to make sure that the VCR tuner is set to “Line” or “Video” input instead of channel 3.

Converters On Local Store Shelves

2008-08-26T08:26:00.004-04:00

One of my colleagues here at CET, Neal Schmidt, mentioned to me that over the weekend he saw the first ad in the newspaper for a DTV converter. I saw the same ad and had the same reaction. The ad was in the supplement included with the Sunday Enquirer and was from hhgregg. Looks like at least hhgregg feels that people are interested in buying the converters.

I visited the new Best Buy on Colerain Avenue this weekend and they had two models on display and they were in a prominent location … be still my heart! The last time I looked in a Best Buy, the converters were hidden at the rear of the store on a bottom shelf. The new display had one regular model and one “pass-through” type which will allow you to continue to receive the low power stations. Both were retailing for 59 bucks. If you apply the Federal Government Coupon you can get a converter for 20 bucks.

We have had many calls and emails asking where to find the converters. Looks like both of these stores have a supply right now. You would be wise no to wait.

Some Good On Line Videos About Your DTV Options

2008-08-21T11:42:00.003-04:00

As much I would like to think that the CET videos regarding the DTV conversion are the "best thing since sliced bread," I have to admit that we found some that are even better. You may wish to view them if you or someone you know is still uncertain about what is required to be ready for the February 2009 Analog Broadcastings Cut Off.

These six videos give a great summary of your options. The videos about antennas and the DTV converter box are especially good. They are clear, concise and in plain non-technical language. What a concept!

You can view them by clicking here.

Average Household Spends $1 Per Day on TV

2008-08-15T14:03:00.002-04:00

According to a recently released study from the U. S. Census, the average household in the United States will spend about $ 365 annually for some sort of Pay TV, i.e., cable or satellite. Less than 10 years ago, that amount was $175 per household. This does not include any contributions that the consumer might make to public broadcasting.

Part of the reason that the Census Department is expecting this steep increase is based on the upcoming February analog cut off. As we have said repeatedly, at midnight February 17, 2009 CET and all other full power broadcasters will begin broadcasting ONLY on a digital channel.

It is no wonder that the consumer might be confused. We still get reports that salespersons at some of the big box electronic retailers are telling customers that over-the-air broadcasting will cease and that they must subscribe to cable or satellite. Even mailers from some satellite and cable companies “conveniently” leave out the fact that digital signals will still be available for free using an antenna and a digital TV or an analog TV connected to a DTV converter.

We know that many of our viewers and supporters have in the past chosen not to subscribe to cable or satellite services. We are delighted to report that they will still be able to get CET and other local stations just as they do now with a modest upgrade to their TV. We have lots of DTV information available on line and plan more DTV information programming in the fall. Stay tuned.

Don't Forget To "Scan" for New Digital Channels

2008-08-11T13:36:00.003-04:00

One of the most common problems our callers and writers are reporting deals with their Digital Converter Box not receiving any channels at all. While this can sometimes be a genuine reception problem, we have found that many callers have either skipped or truncated one of the converter’s set up requirements. Before most converters will work, they must scan all the available digital signals and load that information into the converter’s digital memory. Most of the boxes we have tested automatically did such a scan when they were first plugged in and connected to a TV set. Some did not do this automatically.

If you don’t do a scan first, you will more than likely not be able to receive any channels. Also, if you change the location of the TV or purchase a new antenna, you should do a rescan.

You should find the scanning feature in the menu of options. Don’t get impatient. The scan can sometimes take a minute of more to accomplish..

For CET Viewers ... Cable or Satellite?

2008-08-06T09:18:00.002-04:00

I try not to take sides in this battle since both satellite services and cable companies provide some very good services. Nevertheless, if you are a regular viewer of CET, there are a few things you should know before choosing between satellite or cable.

Of course you need not choose either as CET and the other local stations are available now in digital and can be received with a digital TV or a set top DTV converter connected to your analog set. Many of our viewers do want the expanded offerings of sports, news and movie channels and other special programming options which require a subscription to a pay service.

So which one is the best if you want to enjoy CET’s full complement of programming. At this writing it is cable. Time Warner in Ohio provides all of CET’s digital channels which include CET HD, CET World and CET Create and Insight in Northern Kentucky offers CET HD and CET World. Later this year CET plans to be able to provide CET Create to the Insight line up. Neither Dish nor DirecTv provide any of the CET digital services and while DirecTv announced plans to add CET HD sometime in the future, there are no plans to carry all of the CET digital channels.

So, if you are considering subscribing to cable or satellite you may wish to keep this in mind. The various cable and satellite services change line ups often. I will try to keep you up to date on any changes. For example, there is a pending agreement with DirecTV to add CET HD to the line up of local HD stations. The timetable for that addition is still not firm and it is doubtful that it will happen before February 2009. There is no agreement with Dish Network at this time.

Again, I am not in the business of selling cable or satellite services. I do want our viewers to be knowledgeable and to be able to continue to enjoy all our programming.

"I Canna Change the Laws of Physics!"

2008-08-04T10:14:00.002-04:00

I had a disturbing call last Friday. I was following up on a caller who was having a problem receiving CET’ digital broadcasts. The conversation revealed that not only was he having a problem getting digital CET, but he could only get a few of the other local digital stations. The situation is exacerbated by the fact that gentleman was disabled and had severe mobility issues. TV was a very important way for him to stay connected to his community.

I went though many of the “fixes” we have researched such as changing his antenna placement, trying a more sensitive antenna, trying an outdoor antenna. Nothing worked. His street address indicates that he is located well within our broadcast coverage area.

His situation, while not common, may be experienced by some viewers as they convert to digital. Just as it was the case with analog broadcasting, there are reception nulls with digital broadcasting. In the case of digital they result in no picture at all rather than the analog phenomenon of a snowy picture. Nulls are areas into which a usable TV signal does not penetrate. The reasons are many and varied. Topography, a large building in the path of the signal and even the makeup of the construction of the viewer’s home can contribute to this problem. Unfortunately, except for subscribing to cable or a satellite service, there is nothing that will ameliorate the reception problems. As Scotty from Star Trek once opined to Captain Kirk, “Capt’n , I canna change the laws of physics!”

The caller’s experience adds credence to the suggestion that connecting the DTV converter now rather than in February 2009 is a good idea.

Set Up The DTV Converter NOW!

2008-08-01T09:45:00.000-04:00

We continue to get questions like these regarding connecting the DTV Converter now rather than waiting.

…We really appreciate that you have this service to ask questions regarding the switch to DTV. We are loyal CET viewers and actually don't subscribe to cable. We have our coupons for the boxes and would like to go ahead and purchase and install them. But we have a 2 year old who loves the children's programming and we have shows that we like to watch. We were looking on your website, specifically the schedules, and saw that you broadcast in HD. If we were to install the boxes, would we be able to view the shows on Channel 48 or is there a different channel that we would need to turn to? Personally, we don't care if we don't get the other local channels as long as we can get CET before February 2009. We are just trying to understand this transition a little better and want to maximize the information that we receive. Thank you for your time and look forward to your response.…. We do have one more question, would we be able to hook up the boxes now?
Sincerely,
Sean and Danielle

With the boxes you will get all the programming we broadcast on the main analog channel 48 as well as any other multicast channel we broadcast. Right now we have two channels and in February we plan to have three. You will be able to get all of them, even the HD channel. Of course it will not be displayed on your analog TV in HD, but the content will all be there for you and your children to enjoy.

As for setting up the converter now…absolutely, no reason not to do it now since CET and all the local TV stations are already broadcasting in digital the same programming that they are running on the analog channels plus some extra programming on the multicast channels. Even with an older TV you should see a better picture and hear better sound.

Also by connecting the converters now you will be able to see if you have any reception problems and address them before the cut off date in February.

Thanks for being loyal contributors to CET

Governor Stickland On line and On Air

2008-07-29T15:03:00.004-04:00

On Monday, June 28th, CET hosted Ohio Governor Ted Strickland's Conversation on Education. The conversation was held in CET's studios and concentrated on specific ways to improve public education in Ohio at all levels.

Governor Strickland is holding a total of 12 conversations, one in each of the state's regions. Those attending the discussions are educators, parents, individuals involved with local business, and community members invited by the governor's office. Audience members at these conversations can offer suggestions for the education system and ask the governor questions about the future of public schools.

"CET was pleased to cover this event and make it available both on-air and online live and on demand so that many citizens in our area and around the state can participate," said CET President & CEO Susan Howarth.

For more information about the Conversation on Education, visit http://www.conversationoneducation.org/.

For a behind-the-scenes look at the event click here.

To watch the entire 90 minute program click here.

Not all DTV is HD

2008-07-29T10:43:00.003-04:00

Perhaps one of the most misunderstood aspects of Digital TV is that not all DTV is HD.
The terms DTV and HDTV seem to have become synonymous. They are not.

A trip you your local big box store will demonstrate this. There are several TV models
now offered that have 4 x 3 aspect ratio screens and resolutions of 480 lines. They
have digital tuners and can receive the over-the-air and cable digital broadcasts. They
are indeed Digital Televisions, but they can not display High Definition Television.

Recently an “expert” on a local TV channel opined that “in 2009, all US television broadcasts
will be in HD and all TV sets must have an HD Tuner.” This is not correct. The FCC has no regulations whatsoever about broadcasting in HD. In the future it may be that all TV is in HD
but for now there are various “flavors” of DTV.

There is another misconception that all Digital TVs are expensive. Again this a trip to Best Buy®, Circuit City® or even Walmart® will confirm that small digital sets are avaiable for
less than $150. In many cases, if your current TV is more than ten years old the puchase of
a new digital TV may be a better choice than buying a DTV converter to use with the
older set.

10 Day Hiatus

2008-07-17T11:12:00.001-04:00

There will be no new material added here for 10 days or so. I am riding RAGBRAI again this year so I will be gone thru July 27th. Going to take a break from new technology and use some pedal power instead.

What To Do With Battery Powered TV

2008-07-16T13:36:00.001-04:00

I get questions like this often….

… Now my question, to which I believe I know the answer: I have one of those handy, portable 2.2" LCD TVs that runs off of a few AA batteries. No radio - it is TV only - but has VHF/UHF bands, telescoping antenna, contrast/brightness control, etc. Nice little TV, good to have during storms, power outages, etc, but of course it is analog only. With no apparent way to feed a digital signal into it, is this a soon-to-be doorstop, albeit a little one? I assume that the answer is "yes, it is a soon-to-be doorstop". Have you run across any "second life" uses for something like this? I hate to just junk it (don't worry; I'll make sure it gets in the proper recycling channel), but if there is any other way for me or somebody else to use it, I'd appreciate knowing about that.

Regards,
Tom Harrison Township

The short answer is that you could make this TV work post February 2009 but is most likely not worth the effort or expense. You could attach a wire from DTV converter to the actual VHS antenna. You would need to find a way to power the DTV converter. A hobbyist would look at this as a fun project. Most of us would find it a hassle.

The underlying question is a good one and relates to a similar issue of using radios that have TV bands. Many, like me, use these when the power goes out to listen to the TV weather and news. These radios will no longer work post February 2009.

While they are still scarce, there are and will be more small digital TV’s that will run on batteries just like Tom’s. The one’s on the market right now, one from Toshiba and Coby are very pricey. Just like all electronic devices they will soon be affordable. Same will hold true for radios with TV bands that will receive the audio form DTV stations.

New Ways To Order DTV Converter Coupons

2008-07-14T15:38:00.000-04:00

You can now order DTV Converter Coupons by US Mail or Fax.

Just Click Here to download an application.

You can still order via phone at 1-888-388-2009 or Click Here to order on line.

TTY users can use 1-877-530-2634.

Help Others Get DTV

2008-07-10T09:46:00.003-04:00

A recent study showed that more than 100,000 homes in our area still use over-the-air broadcasting as their sole method of watching TV. That’s a lot of people who continue to receive TV using none of this new technology. For those individuals to continue to watch TV post February of next year, they must either replace their set with a digital TV or buy a DTV converter for their old TV. Unfortunately many of these persons are elderly or shut ins and don’t understand what they need to do. Many don’t realize that they are eligible for the coupons.

If you have a friend or relative in this situation, ask them if they know about the February cut off and if they need help making sure that they will be able to watch TV post digital transition. It may be the guy down the street or your wife’s favorite aunt. Help them send for a coupon. If you don’t need on you can still request one and give it away.

We are running a TV spot on CET to let people know that they can get a coupon that will pay for almost 2/3 of the cost of a converter box.

Click on the Video Box on the Right to watch the spot

Watch Antenna Primer

2008-07-08T14:55:00.002-04:00

We continue to get many questions about what type of antenna is best for receiving DTV over-the-air broadcasts. There are so many variables to consider that it is hard to suggest a “one size fits all” recommendation. I have created a short video that discusses two types of inexpensive options. This is the first of what we plan will be many videos and blog postings aimed at making your transition to Digital TV a smooth one. Let us know what you think.

Click Here to watch the Video.

Why Not More Digital Channels On 48?

2008-07-01T08:29:00.000-04:00

Hello, I was wondering why CET only has 2 HD channels, And Channel 14 from Oxford (I Think) has 6. I would think CET would be able to have that many as well. Just a thought. I feel guilty when I watch a different PBS station.

Thanks
Karl

Karl,

Good question. Actually they provide only 1 HD Channel each and those channels are considered by some not to be HD. Channels 14 and 16 have chosen to provide this less robust High Definition channel by reducing the bit rate for the HD channel and using the bandwidth saved to provide several standard definition (SD) channels. CET is providing the highest bit rate in the Greater Cincinnati area for our HD programs in an attempt to give the viewer the best possible picture in HD. We do have a total of 5 channels available on Time Warner Cable but as of this time we provide 2 program streams on our digital over-the-air broadcast. One channel uses the lion's share of the available bits to provide our HD service and the remaining bits are dedicated to one SD channel, "World."

We recently applied for a grant to purchase a new device that may allow us to keep a robust HD service and still have perhaps two SD channels. I don't see us moving to 5 channels like 14 or 16 as this reduces the quality too much.

Set Up That DTV Converter Now!

2008-06-30T08:22:00.000-04:00

Over the weekend a friend asked if she should wait to connect her new DTV converter. I suggested that she should do it ASAP. All of the local stations are already providing the same programs aired on their analog channels on the digital channels. The digital channels will look sharper and be interference-free, even on her 12 year-old TV.

She will also get several new “channels.” Most local stations are providing additional programs using multicasting technology. For example, CET broadcasts our regular programs on DTV 48.1 and “World” on DTV 48.2. “World” provides a combination of PBS programs broadcast at different times plus some offerings that CET can’t fit on our regular channel.

Another good reason to set up the DTV converter now is that if you do have any reception problems you can address them now. You have time to install a new antenna or adjust that one on the roof. This is easer done in the summer than in the winter.

PBS Kids Offers A Safe Play Place

2008-06-27T09:34:00.001-04:00

One of the hidden gems on CETconnect.org http://www.cetconnect.org/ is the link to PBS KIDS http://pbskids.org/ It is one of the most creative and engaging web sites for the younger set. You might want to keep this site in mind this summer. It is a great answer to the age old complaint, “Mom, there is nothing to do.”

New Antenna Not Required

2008-06-26T08:33:00.000-04:00

Question:
I have a digital TV and I watch local stations through the antenna on my roof. I think I am correct in that I do not need to replace the antenna or do anything new. Is this correct?

Thanks,

Ann

---------------------------------------------
You are correct. I am reprinting an excerpt from one of my recent newspaper columns below that covers this issue.

My recommendation would be to wait until you get the new set and see how your current antenna works. In many situations the simple indoor set-top antenna may be all you need. In other cases the outdoor antenna that you already have installed and connected to your analog TV may work just fine with your new HDTV set. Don’t fix it if it isn’t broken!I wrote about this a few months ago but it bears repeating. There is NO SUCH THING AS A DIGITAL or HDTV ANTENNA. There are antennas that are more efficient than others. Some have amplifiers. Some do not. The antenna itself and the lead in wire are exactly the same for analog reception and digital reception. It is both amusing and irritating to walk through stores and see antennas for sale with the boxes labeled “HDTV Antenna” or “Specially designed for DTV use.” Many of these antennas will come with an inflated price tag because of the HDTV moniker.

Watch DTV Program Anytime

2008-06-25T11:07:00.000-04:00

We are still getting many calls from last week’s DTV Ask Us program. Just a reminder that you can watch the entire program on CETconnect.org. Just point your browser to
http://www.cetconnect.org/cetconnect_video.asp?ID=2997

We plan to do another program again in the fall so keep your questions coming. You can post them here as a comment or send them to me via techinfo@cetconnect.org.

DTV Goes Mobile

2008-06-24T08:57:00.000-04:00

Over the past nine months or so I have been involved on a national committee looking at systems for providing video programming to mobile and hand held devices. Representatives from the major broadcast groups and other industry leaders have been examining how the new digital broadcast system can be used for more applications than only that new HD TV set in the family room.You would have to be living on a deserted island not to be aware that the world of communications has gone mobile.

More and more young people don’t even have a hard-wired phone line, choosing instead the flexibility and convenience of the cell phone. The Black Berry®, or one of the myriad of similar portable communication/assistant devices, has replaced the red “power tie” in corporate conference rooms large and small. So it is only logical that TV programming too will migrate to an untethered universe.

There are already some nascent video services being provided for viewing on cell phones. Verizon® and others offer expanded video services. So far these have only been offered in selected markets and are somewhat pricey. The main issue is that video programming is a ravenous consumer of bandwidth. As an example, if we take the bandwidth currently being used to provide only one channel of public television using UHF Channel 48 and use it for voice or data transmission, we could provide thousands of individual phone conversations and computer connections with the web. One TV program or thousands of other services. So when you send video over a cell phone network, it really can clog up the works. This means it is not very robust and it is expensive to provide.

As I have written repeatedly on this blog, TV in the US has already converted to digital technology with the end of the analog TV age coming in about seven months. The group that I have been serving with is engaged in developing a system that uses part of the broadcaster’s digital signal to send video programming to mobile devices. The conversion to digital allows a more efficient use of the bandwidth.

Some examples. That back seat video screen in the mini van that now displays programs from the same old DVDs will be able to receive new live special programming aimed akids. No more “if I have to come back there” pronouncements. While our area does not have as many mass transit commuters as some of the major US cities, even here, some bus riders might enjoy watching the morning news programs while riding the Metro down I-75.

It may come as a surprise to some that the US is far behind many other countries in deploying this technology. Japan, Korea and some of the Scandinavian countries have very robust mobile networks and mobile video services. In these countries, a combination of government subsidy and consumer demand has spawned higher speed networks and lower prices. In the US some of the mobile video services will be riding on the broadcast digital TV system and it is anticipated that much of the cost will be absorbed by advertisers. Time will tell.The first of the mobile services are projected to launch in 2009.

The Problem Is Not In Your Set, It Is On Top Of Your Set!

2008-06-23T15:55:00.000-04:00

I have been getting calls and emails recently from several people all with the same question. It seems that they have either purchased a new DTV set or have connected a DTV converter to their old analog set and have experienced a strange phenomenon. They are getting great digital reception from all the local stations except Channel 9, WCPO DT.

Now let’s be clear. These are people who do not subscribe to cable or a satellite service. Instead, they rely on over-the-air reception to watch TV.

There is a very simple answer to this conundrum. The problem is not in their TV set. The problem is on top of the TV set or on the roof. It is very likely the antenna.

Back in the 1990s the FCC assigned new channels for DTV to all existing full-power broadcasters. In most cases these new channels were in the UHF band, i.e. Channel 14 – 68. For example CET received DTV Channel 34, WLW got Channel 35. Both are in the UHF band. WCPO got VHF Channel 10. Therein is the problem.

While you may not know it, there are significant differences in the design of antennas used for picking up UHF channels from those designed to pick up VHF channels. I won’t go into the physics. Take my word for it. So if you have a UHF antenna, either set top or roof top, and it is a “UHF only” model, it might not pick up the VHF signal from Channel 10, WCPO.

By the way, don’t let these numbers confuse you. In order to keep it simple, all digital TVs and converter boxes display the old channel analog numbers so the consumers don’t have to get used to a new numbering system. When you watch CET’s digital channel, which as I said above is really channel 34, the TV channel indicator will display good old Channel 48.

OK back to the problem at hand. I did an experiment. I live on a very high ridge just north of Harrison. On a clear day I can see some of the TV towers in downtown Cincinnati from my front window. I connected a UHF/VHF antenna to a DTV receiver and got a good picture from Channel 9 DT. I switched to a “UHF only” antenna. I got nothing.

You might ask why now? You may be using the same antenna that you used for getting analog Channel 9. The UHF antenna worked OK.

Digital signals are different in that they are either perfect or non existent. It is called the “cliff effect.” With analog signals we all have experienced a TV signal that is snowy. We put up with it until it is no longer viewable. A digital signal will never be snowy. If the TV set’s circuitry determines that it can not provide a perfect picture, it will just go to black. I think that is what is happening with our callers’ sets.

The solution is to get an antenna that is designed for both UHF and VHF. That should fix the problem. Some set top antennas have amplifiers. This can help as well. Be sure that the amplifier can be switched off. There are some instances when too much signal can cause problems as well. That’s another column.

Watch DTV Program On Line

2008-06-20T06:41:00.000-04:00

Wednesday evening at 8 PM I was involved in the broadcast our first live DTV call in show on CET. We got more than 160 questions and they are still coming in this morning. The program was ½ hour but could have gone for an hour or more and still not addressed all the concerns and questions.

To watch the program on CETconnect.org just point your browser to http://www.cetconnect.org/cetconnect_video.asp?ID=2997 It is about 30 minutes in length.

We plan to take the most “asked” questions and produce 30 sec. spots that will run on CET TV. Keep your questions coming. Send them to techinfo@cetconnect.org or just place a comment here on the blog.

We are considering of two or three more before Feb 2009. CET wants to make sure that the only “snow” you see on February 18, 2009 is on the ground, not on your TV.

DTV - Ask Us!

2008-06-17T12:42:00.000-04:00

In less than one year all full power television stations will be broadcasting in the digital format. While the technology behind the switch from analog may seem confusing and intimidating, it doesn’t have to be. CET will help clear up some of the common misconceptions and answer questions about the switch during a live show on Wednesday, June 18 at 8 p.m.

During DTV - Ask Us!,CET Executive Vice President & COO Jack Dominic and Chief Engineer Neal Schmidt will tell you want you need to know about watching television once stations stop using analog transmission in February 2009.

"There are so many people with many questions about the transition," said CET President & CEO Susan Howarth. "This live program will let our viewers call in and get answers to their questions from people who really understand what will happen. All too often people rely on information from those who are trying to sell them a product. We will provide an unbiased look at all the options our viewers have."

The half-hour program will be simulcast on CET and CET HD. Questions can be emailed prior to the show to techinfo@cetconnect.org or called in to 513-345-6512.

CET also offers a pamphlet explaining the top 10 things you need to know about the conversion to digital television. It can be downloaded at CETconnect.org/digital or a copy can be mailed directly to you. Simply call 513-345-6512 and provide your name and address.

CET Tech Info

We've Moved!

I Can't Find What Is On CET!

Audio and Video out of Synch?

Why does my DTV converter shut off?

Channel 48 Back (almost)

Problems Getting CET?

How To Find Your Public TV Channels

How To Find Your Public TV Channels

CET/ThinkTV to Continue Discussions

DTV Audio Still Needs Work

DTV Reception Help

Welcome to All Digital Broadcast TV

Common DTV Reception Problem

CET, All Digital All The Time

FCC...Better Late Than Never!

Record Digital Channels on Analog VHS or DVD

May 1st ... Just Around the Corner

It Is Hard To Keep Up

TV Dinners Make a Digital Comeback

There Is No Going Back Now!

Why Is My Picture So Small?

Single Remote for TV and Converter Box?

The Big Day Is Here ... Not!

CET Will Continue Analog Servic Beyond Feb. 17th

NewsHour Explains DTV Deadline Extension

Hurry Up And Wait!

Some Observations From the DTV Readiness Test

DTV Readiness Test Set for Thursday 1/15/2009

Some Converter Hints (A Video Primer)

A Delay in Analog Shut Down?

Chairman Martin's Comments

FCC Chairman Visits Tuesday

Using Your Old VCR To Record Digital Broadcasts

Holiday Greetings!

More than 3000 DTV Questions

Is Your TV Ready for the February Switch?

DTV Converter Coupons Available for Nursing Home Residents

Want to know more about DTV?

Cincinnati City Council To Help With DTV Education

Why no Backup Power?

What We Can Learn From Wilmington NC DTV Early Cut Off

Converter Coupons Exetended to Nursing Homes and PO Box Users

Transmitter Still Without Power

Antennas Key To Good DTV Reception

Recommendations for Local TV Antenna Installations?

Recording from the DTV Converter to a VCR

Converters On Local Store Shelves

Some Good On Line Videos About Your DTV Options

Average Household Spends $1 Per Day on TV

Don't Forget To "Scan" for New Digital Channels

For CET Viewers ... Cable or Satellite?

"I Canna Change the Laws of Physics!"

Set Up The DTV Converter NOW!

Governor Stickland On line and On Air

Not all DTV is HD

10 Day Hiatus

What To Do With Battery Powered TV

New Ways To Order DTV Converter Coupons

Help Others Get DTV

Watch Antenna Primer

Why Not More Digital Channels On 48?

Set Up That DTV Converter Now!

PBS Kids Offers A Safe Play Place

New Antenna Not Required

Watch DTV Program Anytime

DTV Goes Mobile

The Problem Is Not In Your Set, It Is On Top Of Your Set!

Watch DTV Program On Line

DTV - Ask Us!