[mythtv-users] OTA HD is sometimes good, sometimes bad...

[William Munson]

matthew.garman at gmail.com wrote:
> This is basically a continuation of the thread I started several
> months ago:
>
>     http://www.gossamer-threads.com/lists/mythtv/users/259337
>
> Since that post, I've upgraded to an HD Antenna, the Terk indoor
> antenna:
>
>     http://www.amazon.com/Terk-Technology-HDTVi-Indoor-Antenna/dp/B0001FV36E/
>
> Generally it works.  But occassionally---and quite
> unpredictably---recorded shows will be badly pixellated and have
> numerous audio problems.
>
> A good example is last night: I recorded The Simpsons at 7:00 PM
> (Central time); the recording had a few very minor blips, but was
> otherwise fine.  I tried to record The Family Guy at 8:00 PM, and it
> was unwatchable, for the whole duration (1 hour) of the show.  Badly
> pixellated, jerky audio, random pauses and jumps.
>
> I can't imagine what could have happened in the half hour between
> these two shows that would cause one to be nearly perfect and the
> other unwatchable.  I didn't move the antenna at all, didn't use the
> MythTV box for anything else during that time.
>
> Should I try another antenna?  Any other ideas?
>
> Thanks!
> Matt
>
>   

Local interference? Before trying another antenna try relocating it. 
Since you are using an indoor antenna it will be very prone to 
interference from things inside your home. Simple things like a light 
dimmer switch or  a light fixture can cause severe problems. While 
experiencing a problem, go around the house and turn everything else off 
one at a time until the problem goes away. If you are in an apartment, 
it could be one of your neighbors too. If possible your best bet is to 
put up a good outdoor antenna as high and in the clear as possible. Run 
a good coax between them. Do not use Radio Shack junk as you will be 
asking for problems.