Dropped frames, long tuning time for ATSC 3.0

Channels DVR Server Troubleshooting
#1

I got an HDHomeRun Flex 4K yesterday and it's running alongside my older HDHR. Both are connected to the same antenna with a splitter. Here are some first day issues I've had, and I'm trying to figure out whether I have a faulty HDHR, need to change my setup, or if it's due to something my local stations are doing:

  • For one of my channels (104.1), tuning can take up to 15 seconds. Interestingly, the other two ATSC 3.0 channels (all being broadcast from the same tower) only take 2-3 seconds to tune. Also, the HDHomeRun app on my Apple TV take much less time to tune to 104.1.
  • I'm getting dropped frames on 104.1 and they result in very noticeable pauses, maybe once every 1-2 minutes. I tried disabling audio and the dropped frames still occur, although it seems like there are less dropped frames per pause.

I submitted some diagnostics from my Apple TV and server this morning. Any ideas for how to troubleshoot are appreciated!

#2

There are a few threads on this already.

#3

I've been looking, and the recent threads are related to the Fire TV or Shield. They don't seem to be the same issues; if I switch audio streams or disable audio, it doesn't help much.

If I'm mistaken, I'd appreciate a link to anything recent that relates to my problems.

#4

You are having basically the same problem many of us have using the Android/FireTV devices on ATSC3 channels. Didn't know until now that Channels DVR on AppleTV may have the same issues, in fact they may even be worse. I also have a 104.1 channel (Dallas FOX) that takes 10 to 15 seconds to tune, but I don't get complete pauses although many dropped frames. If it works fine on the HDHR app, then I think you can assume that your tuner is not the problem. I think Channels DVR is still in alpha development as far as ATSC3 is concerned so it may work or it may not. I don't believe they have committed to any time frame to have ATSC3 fully functional.

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#5

Mine only takes maybe an extra second for video and then another second for audio. Other than that, everything works fine. I imagine this might be due to differences in broadcast equipment. I am using Apple tvs

#6

Thanks for this, that’s informative. I’m not dealing with the same station as you but after installing the beta firmware on the HDHomeRun, my tuning speed improved significantly in Channels. It could be a complete coincidence but thought I should mention it. Still seeing dropped frames though.

#7

Yeah, that’s pretty much what I’m trying to diagnose. From what I’ve read, different stations’ implementations vary widely. The dropped frames aren’t ideal but I’m happy enough with getting a 1080p60 ABC feed for the first time. The ATSC 1.0 signal from my ABC station is 1080i.

#8

I know Apple TV HD can drop frames but the newer models should be fine. If it's dropping frames with audio off then something must be up with the hardware hevc decoder's compatibility with what your tower is broadcasting.

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#9

I actually think I figured out the issue for the dropped frames, I’m seeing much improved performance from the default audio driver vs. the experimental driver I was using. Default has been very hit or miss with my stereo HomePod minis but for the last 2 days it’s been rock solid.

@tmm1 However would you mind taking a look at this other issue I’ve experienced introducing the new HDHR? I’m seeing lots of interrupted recordings from both the flex 4K and Connect Quatro. It seems to happen often when I’m recording from both HDHRs at once. I’m not sure if it’s a networking issue but they’re both on the same switch. Logs submitted de9e1c36-e42a-4787-b79e-c634d3be04ef

#10

Just kibitzing, but that sounds definitely like an external hardware issue ...

(No, I am not a Jewish grandmother nor a bubbie, but the sentiment remains ...)

#11

That’s my assumption too, and I may try swapping Ethernet cables or just putting the ATSC 3.0 HDHR on a different switch because I’m less restricted by antenna location than my older HDHR. I live <10 miles from the only ATSC 3.0 tower and a paper clip brings in 100% signal strength.

#12

If it were tower/hardware specific, wouldnt the HDHomeRun app drop frames too?

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#13

Not sure if the switch or a bad ethernet cable was a bottleneck, but I think you were right. Since moving the new HDHR to a different switch I've had zero recording issues.

I'm still experiencing slow tuning and the AC4 audio doesn't sound great, but I guess those are common issues for now. @tmm1 I DMed a 30 second sample from my local station if you want something to test while working on ATSC 3.0 support in the future.

#14

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