The Recreation HDTV Weblog

Coolest KVH Trick

Recreation HDTV Guy — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 23:41:14 +0000

The Coolest new trick from KVH!

Now we can watch Digital and HDTV on our existing multifunction screens!

What does this mean? The fish finder, chartplotter, and navigation screens already onboard. Now we can watch the “Big Game”, news, weather and all our favorite entertainment while running, fishing or just relaxing on the screens we already use. Interphase technology can make it even easier to enjoy TV programming on the water thanks to an ultra-compact, in-motion TracVision® M1 or M3 satellite TV antenna from KVH Industries and a display from leaders like Furuno and Standard Horizon.

I had not seen this done and was quite interested in the application details. So I enquired at KVH about this. The application is simple. The box’s for M-1’s and M-3’s have AV jacks on the back, and you can simply run a Video (Yellow) jack from the box to your Nav. Display. However this only works if your Nav. Unit has a Video input jack. Assuming it does, then the only remaining issue is the audio. Since Nav. Units do not have regular audio components, you will need an audio source that will accept AV input. So if you have all of these or upgrade to Nav. And Audio units that accept AV input, you can run a set of AV jacks to your units from the M-1 or M-3 box.

This I’m interested in adding this to the fly bridge, since there is a new audio system up there and the Nav. Unit accepts Video in. This will allow for monitoring “The Game” while running without having a TV setup on the bridge. As for other applications, my mind goes wild. Smaller, center console, fishing boats come to mind. Why worry about not having a TV on your 20+ foot, center console, you can use a Nav. Unit with an Audio system. For sailing where you have a Nav. Unit set up at the helm, now you can sail and stay current on media events. The possibilities seem endless, and with new Nav. Screens being larger and several in 640×480 resolution or better the picture quality is good.

This might take some research into the display and type of connections it will take. For example with Furuno their MU an MFD units have “3 ports RCA”, that will allow for connecting “Multimedia”. This is similar to having a remote camera set up to your display. Similar research into an Audio system is necessary, anything with RCA jacks for Audio in R & L will do.

So take a look at what you have and imagine the possibilities! With a little research and set up, you can have Digital TV on your Nav. Unit with the sound playing through your onboard stereo system. I can see myself listening to “The Game” live while fishing and then jumping to the Nav. Screen to catch the play, or the replay.

Sincerely, Robert Hessler for recreationhdgps.com

KVH M1 Tracvision New!

Recreation HDTV Guy — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:33:11 +0000

KVH M1 on Speedbaot

It’s here, the worlds smallest TV System! The KVH Ultra-Compact TracVision M1, Making Satellite TV a Reality on Small Boats. The M1 is the smallest and lightest way for small boaters to get in-motion Digital DIRECTV. The M1 comes with It’s own integrated 12V DIRECTV receiver/controller with the TracVision antenna and a single cable installation design. At only 7.5 lbs., and with a 12.5″ antenna the M1 is making the dream of watching the big game a reality whether they are at the dock, during a big fishing trip, or cruising with the family.

An easy do-it-yourself in-motion satellite TV solution all you need is a Digital TV and a 12V power source. KVH also offers Technical Support for customers by calling N. America: Phone: +1 401-847-3327 and they will assist you with activation of your DIRECTV service as well.

I love this idea for all of the boaters out there who pull there boats out of the water after the weekend, for the Sail boaters who feel there boat is just mot big enough and for the boater who does not think they can mount a 30 to 60 pound receiver on their boat. This new TracVision is 7.5 pounds! It weighs about as much as a downrigger or a railing mounted BBQ grill. For those who might want to stay out fishing and watch “The Game” or those who haul out at the end of the day and go home to watch TV. Now small boaters can enjoy their boats even more, even longer and with quality sports, information and entertainment.

Sincerely, Robert Hessler

Operations Manager, www.recreationhdgps.com

KVH Marine HDTV M3DX by R.Hessler www.recreationhdgps.com

Recreation HDTV Guy — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 16:09:35 +0000

KVH Marine HDTV by Robert Hessler for www.recreationhdgps.com

KVH’s TracVision M3ST voted best in Marine Entertainment category by

U.S. marine electronics dealers!

KVH M3 on Baot

KVH Satellite TV Antennas Still the Best with 11th Consecutive NMEA Industry Award!

This will continue to be the norm for some time. KVH’s Ring of Fire technology for 14”-diameter mobile satellite receivers providing Excellent! TV reception aboard “Boats and Yachts” even as small as 25 feet. The new M3ST and M3DX receivers are “Easy to install, reliable, and cost effective, and best of all, our customers love ‘em!”

So what is the difference? The M3ST receives Digital TV with unsurpassed tracking and acquisition in all sea states. The M3DX is the same size and has the same great tracking at sea. The difference is the M3DX is capable of receiving Ku band satellite HDTV signals. This means with a box from your satellite service provider you can have outstanding HDTV onboard. KVH offers a multi-service box that allows you to switch between DISH Network, HD DirecTV or, ExpressVu Service.

The Big! Question: which satellite provider should I use. This of course is a personal choice and some research into price and channels available is recommended. However DirecTV is currently planning to move their HDTV service from Ku band satellites to new Ka band satellites. This capability is not built into the M3DX, and thus you would need to switch to Dish Network or ExpressVu Service.

Still it’s hands down KVH according to the National Marine Electronics Association. For great TV or HDTV reception, in motion, at sea, 100-200 miles off shore, easy to use, easy to install. A M3ST or M3DX will be an awesome entertainment investment to enjoy for years. Now there does not have to be a compromise between being “On the Boat” and missing good quality TV or HDTV at home. I’m personally thrilled that the days of getting back in time to get home and see “The Game” are over. Robert Hessler for www.recreationhdps.com

KVH TracVision R-6

Recreation HDTV Guy — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 00:09:49 +0000

KVH TracVision R-6 By R.Hessler for www.recreationhdgps.com

The TracVision R6 DX is the premier high-definition mobile satellite TV system for RVs, the flagship product in KVH’s all-new SlimLine family of satellite TV systems. Designed to be your ultimate integrated HDTV solution, the in-motion TracVision R6 DX includes a free DISH Network HDTV receiver.¹Now you’ll have on-the-go access to the best and broadest selection of high-definition programming available! And using it couldn’t be easier. Simply change the channel to view programs on up to three different satellites, using just the remote control!

With reception far superior to competing 12″ antennas, and as good as competing 15″ antennas, the TracVision R6 DX is the most reliable in the industry. KVH’s exclusive DewShield™ electronic dew elimination technology (patent pending) eliminates moisture from the dome for a clear picture when other systems are left with just the “SEARCHING FOR SATELLITE” screen. Plus, with KVH’s single-cable installation and 12V design, you’ll be on the road and enjoying hundreds of channels of satellite TV entertainment in no time. Choose the TracVision R6 DX for your ultimate RV entertainment solution – experience what satellite TV in an RV was meant to be!

Highlights:

Access to hundreds of channels of satellite TV programming and commercial-free music from DISH Network, ExpressVu or DIRECTV² whether you’re parked or on the go

DIRECTV’s Ku-band programming^.
Sleek, 12″ dome protects the most reliable antenna available – for a beautiful RV outside, and the best in satellite TV entertainment inside
DewShield, KVH’s exclusive, electronic dew elimination system, prevents moisture from collecting on the dome in less-than-perfect weather, when you need a clear picture most!
Simple installation and full support for multiple TVs and receivers

Noteworthy:

KVH TracVision systems support DIRECTV’s Ku-band standard and high-definition broadcasts. However, DIRECTV is in the process of moving its HDTV programming to new Ka-band satellites. Reception of Ka-band broadcasts requires larger antennas and additional equipment. As a result, KVH TracVision systems and all other domed mobile satellite TV antennas cannot support reception of DIRECTV’s new Ka-band HD broadcasts. For complete details regarding HDTV services and available channels in RVs, visit www.kvh.com/hdtv.

KVH Istallation Information and Links

Recreation HDTV Guy — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 17:04:37 +0000

This page I put together for all who are looking for more information about “The leader in Mobile Satellite Receivers”. KVH has been providing this technology to the US Military for decades, and is the first to make “Top of the line” products available to the public. For more information and or questions email me at customerservice@recreationhdgps.com.

The KVH TracVision® M-series, the world’s most popular and powerful family of DVB®-compatible, fully stabilized marine satellite TV systems, brings you digital satellite TV entertainment, including HDTV, whether you’re relaxing at anchor or cruising offshore. KVH’s TracVision satellite TV antenna systems offer:

• 300+ channels of digital TV programming and commercial-free, CD-quality music via regional satellite services around the globe

• KVH’s exclusive RingFire™ antenna technology for extended coverage and unmatched reception, even in bad weather

• Superior performance in the most demanding marine conditions

• Easy to use, completely automatic operation

• Award-winning reliable designs suitable for vessels from 25′ to 80′ and above

• Matching domes to KVH’s TracPhone® satellite phone systems for great-looking dual dome installations

For information, installation, and application for KVH TracVision use the following link:

http://www.kvh.com/pop_ups/wp_m3.asp You can log-in as a consumer, by clicking “Not Yet Registered” and providing an email address. Once logged into the KVH White Paper “Applications and Innovative Technology”, the KVH “Partner Portal” gives a lot of tech support and information. Including the “HDTV Tri-Sat Auto Switch Kit Configuration Wizard”, and the “TracVision M3/M2 Configuration Wizard” Consumers can use the same method to log-in to the Car, SUV, & Van Products, as well as the RV & Coach Products.

It is the recommendation of this site that KVH TracVision Satellite Receivers be professionally installed, and this information be used only for ordering and layout. Improper installation may cause serious damage to both the Tracvision Satellite Receiver and, or the electrical system being used for installation. This site will not accept returns for TracVisions damaged due to improper installation.

KVH has a current promotion for TracVision consumers, with a subscription to DirecTV. Use the following link to download this promotion as a PDF. http://www.kvh.com/trac_offer/pdfs/Form_TV_Marine_FreeReceiver_2.07.pdf

HDTV Reception

Recreation HDTV Guy — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 16:55:41 +0000

HDTV Reception by Robert Hessler recreationhdgps.com

There are three ways to receive primary HDTV. Via Satellite, from cable or fiber optic providers, and over the air. Note: Verizon’s FiOS is a fiber optic verses coax cable way of providing service. As for Satellite the main providers are. Voom, DirecTV, and Dish Network. There’s also Express Vu, and Star Choice. These are Canadian companies and may require that you purchase there service through an address broker such as Freeway Support. Also a new service provider to look into C/KU Band where you can receive signals directly from their source.

All three methods require a Set-Top-Box, or STB to decode the HDTV signal. It is important not to confuse HDTV and DTV. DTV is digital TV. A provider may have both DTV and HDTV. However the STB you use needs to be capable of decoding HDTV and DTV. The same STB you may have been using for DTV may not decode HDTV.

All three methods will you a different line up of channels, as well as different HDTV resolutions. In other words the same channel may be in different resolutions from different sources. Ex. from satellite the signal resolution might be 1080i, but via fiber optic the might be providing 1080p. Currently providers are advertising HD, but not the resolution there signal is for specific channels. I say specific channels because not all the channels are at the same resolution. This will change as HD use progresses. Currently most sporting events are in 1080i, but you can still find channels in 720p.

The other method is to modify your home computer to receive HD signals. similar to Over the Air this is best accomplished with an antenna, vs. a dish. Once modified you can transfer the signal to your HDTV via an S-Video cable.

Last but not least, do not confuse HD, HDTV and HDTV signals. There are new camcorders now that record in HD, and NASA has a new satellite that takes pictures and records in HD. This does not mean that these are HDTV signals ready for your STB to decode. Unless your STB is decoding an HD signal, or the signal is coming from another HD source directly into your HDTV it’s most likely not going to be in HD. However a direct signal from a HD source such as a HD or BlueRay disc player, a HD camcorder, or a computer modified to decode HDTV signals will be in HD.

HDTV Flat Panel Information

Recreation HDTV Guy — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 15:15:20 +0000

HDTV Flat Panels by Robert Hessler recreationhdgps.com

Noteworthy HD format for these TV’s comes in 720 (i&p) and 1080 (i&p). The difference is the resolution vs. SDTV (Standard TV). The HD resolutions are 1280×720 and 1920×1080 pixels. HD TV’s usualy have a 16:9 aspect ratio (widescreen). SDTV may have a 16:9 aspect ratio, but will have a resolution of 704×480 pixels. The i&p refer to interlaced vs. progressive frame rates. Interlaced meaning the TV paints every other line of the picture in alternating patterns (very hard to see). Progressive scan means both lines are painted at the same time (best for action sports). Progressive scan DVD’s are best with a 720p or 1080p HDTV. Most HD format today is at least 720p, with most HD programing in 1080i.

The most common types of HD TV’s are Plasma and LCD. The primary differences are that Plasma has a better capability of producing the color black, thus the colors are deeper. LCD tends to have sharp color, but not deep color, also LCD TV’s will have a slimmer profile.

Tip: Bigger is not always better, the general rule is for HDTV to divide the number of feet from the seated position by 7. Example if your planning to sit 20 feet away a 28 to 32 inch screen shouldfeel comfortable and not overwhelming.

Tip: When shopping in stores look at TV’s from the distance you plan to be once the new TV is in place. Take a tape if needed, and also consider other activity that may take place in the room.

Tip: If you plan on mounting the TV to a wall an additional mounting bracket will be needed. Beware a good stud finder, level and drill with torque settings will make mounting the hanging bracket a lot easier with better results.

Tip: Consider your use vs. sound needs. If you commonly watch a lot of movies you might want to consider a Home Theater System.

Final Tip: The HDTV is not stand alone, it will require connections from a variety of different sources. HDMI, S-Video, Firewire, and Component Video are the main sources. If you plan to wall mount you should consider how to hide these cables. You can find plastic, self adhesive cable runs at most hardware stores.

For more information contact us: customerservice@recreationhfgps.com

Recreation HDTV

Recreation HDTV Guy — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 18:55:48 +0000

Now that I’ve had the fabulous experience of HDTV at home, I’m hooked. I don’t watch a lot of TV but when I’m watching my favorite sporting events, weather, news etc. I like being able to see everything Clearly! Now I want to be able to watch wherever I want. Outside, Camping, Tailgating, Boating, In my back yard. I’m a nut for ”On the Go” electronics that increase my recreational enjoyment. So I started my own web site www.recreationhdgps.com because I want to share the availability of great new technology for recreational use. I’m so happy I no longer have to be home to catch The Game, or watch it inside while it’s beautiful outside. The worst? I’m on vacation RV’ing or Boating, miss “The Ballgames” can’t see a weather satellite picture from the weather channel and get wet, miss the news and spend my Monday hearing about it from everyone else. No More! With todays new technology I can watch what I want, where I want, when I want, on HDTV.

I’m also a Guy, and a typical Guy who hates to get lost and won’t admit it. This is another great new advance in technology, GPS for everything. GPS for everywhere I want to go. Even if I’m just riding my bike, or if I’m out on the water looking for that great little marina my friend told me about. If It’s dark and I’m driving back to the campsite in an unknown area. GPS for Everything I Say! This is why I’ve devoted some of my spare time to www.recreationhdgps.com so that everyone can enhance there Leisure, Recreation and Adventure time with great electronics. So visit my site and let me know what you’re looking for?? http://www.recreationhdgps.com