Power increase delayed (slightly)

Power increase delayed (slightly)

Topic Author: Tom Weeden

Posted: 5:18 PM Oct 19, 2009

Replies Posted: 7 comments

Save

Recent Blog Topics

We've been shooting for a late October power increase since we placed an order for a new antenna back in May. The antenna is ready to ship, and the upgraded transmitter is just a few days away from completion. But our tower crew needs to bring in a specialized crane which will be temporarily installed at the top of the tower to lower the old antenna and bring up the new one. This unit is tied up at another site until early November.

But...November is the important Nielsen ratings period. (Actually October 29 through November 25.) Part of our new antenna installation involves signing off the air for several minutes or longer while the tower workers are near our existing antenna for safety reasons. A poorly timed signoff would affect the rating and subsequent advertising rates for a particular program. So we're going to dance around that possiblity and begin the antenna installation after the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. Hopefully we'll be finished by mid-December with an improved signal.

Thanks for your patience!

Post Your Comments

Posted by: JP Location: Belmont
When you switched over last fall we totally lost channel 15 at our house. We have re-scanned an nothing. Do I need to invest in an external antenna? Channels 3, 21, 27, and 57 come in great.

Posted by: Tim Location: Westfield
When will NBC 15 begin broadcasts in 1080 (news)?

Posted by: Tom Weeden Location: WMTV
Carl, the first post will probably be on Twitter (www.twitter.com/WMTVtech) and here on the HDTV page. We'll also mention it on newscasts.

Posted by: Carl Williams Location: Adams WI
Where will you post a notice when the signal improvement is first fully activated ?

Posted by: Greg Location: Rockford, Il (south)
It's been interesting to follow the saga of upgrading a signal during the digital/HD age. Thanks for the info. I get the signal sometimes at about 60 on my Dish receiver, mostly early mornings or during rain (skip). Since I can get Chicago and sometimes Milwaukee (skip) as well as Rockford, I don't miss much. Rockford stations don't have any HD local news except for 23 who really fuzz up the picture in the studio; must have poor makeup personnel. Their shots outside the studio are all very clear. They have the equipment, but don't use it right. Maybe you'll do better. The rest of the Madison stations come in all of the time if I point the antenna correctly and most of the time if pointed between Madison and Rockford. When you are done, please post a picture of the new antenna system. Thanks again. Formerly N9AKP.

Posted by: Matthew Location: westfield, wi
The signal keeps going in and out. I see you are trying to fix the problem. Thanks again.

Posted by: Barry Location: Dubuque IA
Thanks for the update. I get your competitors 3 and 49 with ease but your signal is spotty at best. Really miss Sunday night football and Notre Dame football when the weather is bad.

Blog Links
	Nick Austin
	Christine Bellport
	Dana Brueck
	Amy Carlson
	Sarah Carlson
	David George
	Kevin Hunt
	David Kmiecik
	Kara McKinney
	Leigh Mills
	Chris Papst
	Barclay Pollak
	Jason Rice
	Charlie Shortino
	John Stofflet
	Robb Vogel
	Carleen Wild

	Weather Authority Watch your local weather 24/7.

	News Links Looking for something you saw on NBC 15? Find it here.

	Double Dollar Deals Experience our area's best restaurants at a Half-Off price.

	Golf Double Dollar Deals Experience our area's best golf courses at a Half-Off price.

	Family Double Dollar Deals Experience our area's best businesses at a Half-Off price.

	Perfect Home Find out how to make your perfect home.

	What's On? Click here to see our program guide.

	The Health Professional Find answers to your health questions.

	Crystal Apple Awards Nominate Your Favorite Teacher Today!