Satellite Waivers

[cofin]

I am a bit curious if anyone on this board has has any experience with getting satellite waivers from any of the local channels in Columbus.

I am in Auburn, and it is difficult to grab the OTA signals.

I have heard from a few colleagues at work who have DirecTV. They state that it is very difficult to receive waivers from any of the stations (especially ABC).

Can anyone attest to the validity of this statement?

[crepehanger]

I once had waivers from every Columbus stations except WRBL. Basically, I pestered the stations until three of the four gave me one (I didn't try 66). Once I had HD, I found it cheaper to go with an antenna. FWIW, you can change your service address to get access to distant stations. I did that once as well.

[cofin]

Well, I really have considered changing my service address to a home I have that falls under the Birmingham DMA. However, I do believe that this is a breach of the TOS at DirecTV, so I am a little uneasy about doing this. I personally see no problem, as I think that is is a matter of safety(as well as convenience) that I am able to receive local channels from somewhere nearby; as I would have no way of receiving weather/emergency alerts. Are there any ways they can detect where I am receiving the signal from. I assume that the telephone line, which I do not have, is their primary method.

[sklej]

If you have a Birmingham address, use it to get the nets via the dish, and use an antenna if you really want the Columbus or Montgomery locals for emergency situations. In my opinion, it's not worth the hassle of even attempting to get waivers, as they will be denied.

[supermale]

Jul 7, 2008 17:17:40 GMT -5 cofin said:

Are there any ways they can detect where I am receiving the signal from. I assume that the telephone line, which I do not have, is their primary method.

I've been getting the B'ham networks for the past 3 years, WITH a phone line connected to all of my receivers. I've never had a single problem. I'm using an antenna now to get the Columbus locals for the purpose you mentioned - weather and "important" local news when I need it. But for watching and recording network television, I'm still using the B'ham stuff.

BTW, I have absolutely no contact with the address I use for my service address (it's my old apartment), so don't restrict yourself to using one with which you have a connection.