99gecko, you are correct. The DTB-H260F cannot be setup via s-video or composite because the onscreen guide only outputs via component and HDMI.

My TV does have component input - however, as stated I understand that the guide will not work.

The onscreen guide WILL work using component.

Could someone enlighten me on if it would be possible to use an LCD computer monitor combined with a Samsung DTB-H260F tuner (or other OTA tuner) to view OTA. I am talking about a standard monitor with no component inputs, just a DVI 9pin Dsub. I already have an antenna set up and USB ATSC tuner.

I Googled til my Googler was sore but didn't find any reliable information.
(I've been watching too much Grinch with the kids lately)

The Samsung DTB-H260F does not DVI output, but it does have an HDMI output. You can purchase an HDMI to DVI cable to connect the 260 to your monitor.

Just to make sure though, what make and model is your LCD computer monitor?

Correction: My monitor has a VGA 9pin cable, not DVI as was stated.

I understand that there are older models of Samsung OTA tuners that have the 9 pin type output.

My monitor is a KDS K917s model no. 900p.

The information I got off the internet led me to believe that there is a different signal exiting a computer video card via that type of connection than there would be from an ATSC tuner.

Can someone prove this wrong?

lmlandry:

Some earlier model OTA tuners did have component that output RGB, similar to a VGA 9-pin connector for you to use a simple component to VGA breakout cable. "stampeder" a fellow Moderator on this site and the resident expert on OTA here was selling one just recently but you're a little too late now.

In order for you to connect the 260F to your monitor, you will need to purchase a component to VGA adaptor. Do a search on the net, although the price of some are actually more than the price of the 260F itself. You cannot simply buy a component to VGA breakout cable because, as you have noted, the component signal from some consumer electronic devices such as the 260F are different (Y, Pb, Pr) than those from a computer's video card via VGA (RGB).

...and that is why I'll come here first from now on to get answers.

I will now consider purchasing an LCD TV, as most smaller ones seem to have the ATSC tuners built right in.

Thanks a lot

Is there anywhere in Canada I can buy the Samsung DTB-H260F tuner?
Thanks.

Is there anywhere in Canada I can buy the Samsung DTB-H260F tuner?

That would depend on where you live (you should fill in your location). For Ontario, I heard people in Windsor were able to get one, but that's probably because they are right next to Detroit. I bought mine from eBay and had it at my door in only a few days. The seller was Canadian too (I think from Windsor lol).

I could of went to Niagara Falls and bought one from Buffalo, but I didn't feel like driving there and back.

In all configurations, however, the DTB-H260F does NOT provide a "tall" vertical picture for you to apply the anamorphic squeeze feature on your TV the way it does for anamorphic DVDs.Hmmm... I think I either disagree or I don't completely understand. I use the composite video (yellow RCA) for recording, and the components to my TV, a Sony Wega. The composite only outputs one of the Samsungs "aspect ratios", the 4:3 full. Everything is stretched vertically the height of a 4:3 screen. When I view the recording, I use my TV's anamorphic squeeze to compress the picture back down so the image appears normal. It works great for me, and is probably one of the less understood positive features of the Samsung 260 - you get to record the whole signal, despite how it is being viewed via component.

Whidbey:

I stand corrected. I never tried out this "feature" because I always connect via component or HDMI for HD, and record OTA via a USB PC Tuner, and thus have no need for the composite or S-Video outputs of the 260. I'm glad that it works great for you.

But come to think of it, it does make sense now because if you tune to an HD station that of course broadcasts for 16:9, then the picture is "enhanced" for 16:9 TVs. Thus if displayed on a 4:3 with anamorphic squeeze capability, then it will work as you described.

Hi, I have a Samsung DTB-H260F hooked up to a channel master 4228 facing Vermont and NewYork with great results. The problem is the 260 turns itself off and on for no apparent reason if its been on for an extended period of time. If I turn is off and wait 30 minutes it starts up no problem and is stable for a little while. Has anybody else had this problem? Is there an easy fix (firmware perhaps) or do I have to get it serviced? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

kunfu, sorry to hear of your troubles with it. Does it completely power off to a dead state or is it some sort of sleep mode?

Do you hear any clicking inside it when it powers off, like maybe a power supply relay?

Are there any external conditions that might be causing it, like your home electrical system, excess heat or cold, moisture?

Can anyone tell me where I can put my hands on an ATSC tuner set-top box in the Toronto area?

Be advised that all ATSC (Digital Set-Top Boxes) that are approved by the FCC in the U.S.A. that are to be used with the vouchers that US families can apply for; will be showing up on E-bay et ALL. These sets will NOT have digital outputs
(HDMI or DVI) only analogue usually limited to composite and sometimes S-video.
So dont be fooled by cheap prices and check with seller about all specs.

I visited their website and ordered the Silver Sensor and for the fun of it the Samsung TVDA1000

The SS is an actual Zenith packaged one --- used. yipeee picking up CBC hd in vancouver.

The samsung is also used. can't hook this one up right away. doesn't have standard F type connector on the back of it.
Stampeder, FYI, I opened this one up. it's a bowtie type config etched on a PCB..Thanks for taking apart a Samsung TVDA1000 for us, anllee! I had never heard of it before seeing it at their site, and now I'm sure it is not worth the trouble of buying! :)

Played some more with the TDVA1000. Went to the SourceCC and found the mating connecting adapter. Turns out its a PAL connector on the back of the Samsung. Strange considering the box says "Samsung America"
I am picking up CBC-DT with this thing all be it with only SNR of 18 with its amp plugged and with a sheet of aluminum foil to help reflect the signal. :D
Go figure that the silver paint on the plastic isn't reflective enough.

I had never heard of that little Samsung antenna before, and now I know why! :) I doubt it would be very useful even in PAL countries either...

Our house (Chatham, ON) has a very large antenna on a tower, and we get many, many channels from Ontario, Michigan, and Ohio through it, but we wanted to see if the quality improved with an ATSC converter box.

I bought an Insignia NS-DXA1 this afternoon at a U.S. Best Buy in Port Huron, Michigan for $59.99 and hooked it up to an older Sharp 13" in our bedroom.

Overall, I am very, very pleased. I recommend the Insignia ATSC converter - it is small, easy to use, and includes on-screen menus that are easy to use. It is a cool bonus that I can see a program guide as well - I was not aware of this possibility.

I split my antenna's signal and ran half through the TV's coax input, and fed the other half to the Insignia ATSC converter. I connected the tuner to the TV via the component inputs. With this done, I get my "perfect" digital American networks + weather + program guide, AND my NTSC channels (including all major Canadian networks).