Dish Network + Local DTV Channels = Transition

Several months ago I bought a DTV antenna and have been receiving local DTV channels via my Dish Network 722 box without a problem. Though the transition to DTV local channels has been extended until June 12th, 2009, the locals had the option to convert earlier. So for the past week or so, the locals where I live informed us that they would make the transition on April 16, 2009 at 12:01am. No problem I thought to myself. I’m already receiving 9 locals through my Dish Network box.

But before I proceed, let me explain how Dish Network setup works for local channels. On the back of the 722 receiver are two antenna connections. One is for the second remote and comes with a short wired antenna an is used for remote #2 to control the second built in receiver. On the back of the receiver is a 2nd antenna connection for over the air broadcasts. I went to our local Wal-Mart and bought a RCA Flat Multi-Directional Digital Flat Amplified Antenna with Amplification for $30 [see here] The antenna has been working great and I have been receiving signal strengths at 100% for all 9 local channels I have been receiving through my Dish Network box.

Well this morning that all came to a grinding halt. This morning none of the local station were available. No problem. I’ll just rescan. I had noticed that the local stations had recommended doing this after the transition, however, I thought it was only for those using converter boxes. I went to Menu - System Setup - Local Channels and deleted all the stations. I than rescanned. Nothing. No local channels were found. I did this four times. Same results. Nada. Nothing.

Long story short I reset the receiver by holding the power button for 15 seconds. After the reset I scanned the locals again and there they were.

I hope this helps someone else who is using Dish Network and wants the local channels over the air once the transition is completed where they live.

Comments welcome.