Digital TV

Learn more about our commitment to the future of TV

Story Published: Oct 11, 2006 at 10:14 AM PDT

The transmission and reception of Digital TV significantly enhances visual resolution, color, noise reduction and supports high fidelity multi-channel audio reproduction. There are several digital formats, ranging from converted analog material having a 4:3 aspect ratio (width / height of the picture), to a wide screen 16:9 aspect ratio. The 4:3 digital signal utilizes some 300,000 individual pixels to construct an image. The 16:9 digital signal has two formats. The first, constructs the image with 720 horizontal lines and 920,000 pixels. The second constructs the image with 1080 horizontal lines and 2,073,000 pixels. The higher number of pixels yields higher visual resolution.

CBS and KCBY have chosen the 1080 / 2,073,000 standard for digital transmissions. During those periods of the broadcast day where there is no source of a high definition signal, KCBY converts its channel 11 analog signals to the digital standard, yielding the enhancements mentioned above. KCBY is currently working towards providing additional digital information to the viewer, combined with the TV data.

To view KCBY-DT, reception of UHF channel 21 is required, which in some instances will require the use of an outdoor antenna. The latter may be any commercially available type. A critical aspect of the installation is that the antenna is aimed at our transmitter on Noah Butte in Coos Bay. At this time, KCBY is transmitting a moderate level of RF power, which will be increased in the coming months.

KCBY is currently compiling an area map of coverage, which when completed, will enable us to assist viewers with recommendations for the type of antenna to use in a specific area. Digital transmission is very different from analog. If a viewer has a consistent picture, it should be digitally correct. There is no visible ghosting or noise, such as may been seen with a marginal analog signal. However, if the received digital signal is of inadequate strength, reception may vary from perfect to none. This is called the digital "cliff effect" and may be helped with careful attention to the receiving antenna and cable connected to the TV. It is not recommended that splitters be installed unless they are of professional quality, and there is adequate signal received in order to accommodate the 50% loss incurred in splitting then signal.

For more info, check out these links:

Converter Box Coupon
NITA TV Converter Box Coupon Program
CBS HDTV Primetime Schedule
FCC Digital TV Website
DTVAnswers.com