Cable vs DSS

[drgingras]

Thanks for the correction, Kevin. And my apologies to WISN - guess I've seen one too many network affiliation changes over the years:blush:

Dave

[chure]

After a couple of days of research, I'm now leaning towards going with a Direct TV HD system.  It seems like the local choices for receivers are Hughes E86, Samsung SIR-TS160 and Sony (don't know model #).  The best deal I've found is the Hughes HD receiver w/ 3 LNB dish and another basic receiver (a two room setup), with first two months free programing with installation for $500.  I'd still have to get a OTA antenna, which I would tackle later.  I live in Wauwatosa so I believe an indoor antenna would be sufficient enough to receive local HD broadcast and wouldn't have to blow $150 on huge antenna.  I'm hoping around $50?

A couple of notes; my 46" Mits does not have a DVI input, so an upgrade in receiver for that purpose only, isn't necesary.  I've read a fair amount about the ease of switching between OTA and Direct tv broadcast SD & HD, that would nice and I'm not sure if that exists with the Hughes.  

I'm still at toss up whether I jump into HD now or just wait 6 months to a year when maybe my answer would more clear and most likely cheaper...however that would be 6 months without spectacular television!  and in 6 months, $500 might not be in the budget if a bambio is on the way?

Again, your thoughts and opinions are very appreciated

[Tom Snyder]

In Tosa, a 20 dollar Radio SHack Double Bowtie will get you everything you need.. if you can still find one.  Possibly even Fox 6... signal is aimed right atcha...

[Matt Heebner]

Here in Tosa my double bow tie does not get me FOX, and I am apprx.9 miles from their antenna. I do get a weak signal of 22 though. I've even tried bigger UHF only antenna's to no avail.

I wonder when they are planning to move to the permanent location?

Matt

[mhz40]

Originally posted by chure
clip After a couple of days of research, I'm now leaning towards going with a Direct TV HD system. /clip

You detailed all of the up-front cost's, but I'm curious how much is the monthly package?
Your decision to wait 'till next year falls right into the old PC addage...  I'd take the plunge.  There are deals out there if you're not in any big hurry to get the gear in the house.

[Greg Oman]

mhz40-- you are correct, 6u is about a 1mm 18 gauge conductor, 59u is typically 22 gauge, and .643mm in thickness.  Mixing them could produce the situation that you describe, however if you go with 6u for everything, it's a moot point.  You can have one spool of coax for all of your distribution needs.  59u isn't optimal for satellite signal distribution as that frequency range is 900~2200mhz.

These days, unless a manufacturer specifies only using RG-59 for a connection, use 6u for everything.  The cost difference is small at a spool price, and you will not have to worry about re-stringing cable if you decide to pursue a satellite system.

Here's a helpful reference:

http://www.ce.org/publications/books_references/techhome/home/glossary/default.asp?sort=R

Greg O.

[mhz40]

Originally posted by Greg Oman
clip mhz40-- you are correct, 6u is about a 1mm 18 gauge conductor, 59u is typically 22 gauge, and .643mm in thickness.  Mixing them could produce the situation that you describe, however if you go with 6u for everything, it's a moot point.Greg O. /clip

Nice reference, but IMO it is simply flawed.  Their statement that RG6 has better shielding than 59 is simply not true.  You can get various types and densities of shielding on virtually any size of cable.  The only thing RG6 gets you vs RG59 for sure is less loss per foot.  If anyone else trying to sell you cable ever tells you differnet, walk away.

Typical Loss (dB)/100Ft @68deg

• RG59 5.5@500MHz/6.9@750MHz/8.1@1GHz
•  RG6   4.5@500MHz/5.6@750MHz/6.5@1GHz

Running RG6 through the house for distribution in the home is nice if you have the opportunity, but I'll stand by my opinion that it should never directly feed consumer gear.
The difference in loss at 1GHz on a 10' jumper from the wall plate to your equipment is .16 dB, which is virtually immeasurable.  The difference in potential phyical damage to the RF connecter on your pricey hardware is not...

[FreQi]

Originally posted by drgingras
As for the lack of clutter on the digital channels, savor the moment. A true benefit of being an early adaptor. As we approach the analog cutoff date, all the self-promotional

Ugh.  I don't want to just enjoy it while it lasts, I want to lobby for it to continue.  I'd expect producers of the shows find it insulting the locals mutilate their hard work.  Anyone seen the Simpsons' episode where Homer ate the Joe Millionaire promo?

WITI puts their logo/banner over the opening segment of Futurama and you never get to read the clever phrase they always change in the beginning anymore.

WISN likes to over run the opening segments of their prime time shows with what's coming up on the news, so the first  5 second of the show is always lost (pay attention to Alias for a quick example).

I could roll on with more examples but you know what I they are doing.  It's rude and it should be discontinued.  There are better ways for them to run their promotionals without crapping on their expensive shows and precious viewers.