University of Houston
Residential Life & Housing
4361 Wheeler St.
Oberholtzer Hall
Houston, Texas 77004
713.743.6000
Frequently Asked Cable Questions
Why is my Cable TV not working?
Why do I see regular air channels like 2, 8, 13, 14, 20, 26, 39, etc?
Why do I see only channels 2 to 13?
Why don't I see all the cable channels?
Why is one of the channels scrambled or displays a number to call?
Why are there diagonal lines moving across the screen?
Why can't I see the HBO channel?
Your TV must first be connected to the cable TV outlet in your room using a standard coaxial cable. RLH does NOT supply this cable. TV's that are not cable-ready may be able to receive channels 13 and below. You will need a cable-ready TV (or cable-ready VCR or cable converter) to properly use this service.
Once everything is properly wired and plugged in, the TV must be setup for cable TV reception. This is usually done with a switch on the back of the TV, through a button on the TV or remote, or though on-screen programming. Different brands use different wording. You want to look for Cable, Standard, STD, HRC, IRC, Air, or Antenna. If you see one of these words, you want to make your TV is NOT on Air or Antenna, but on Cable or Standard (STD).
Once your TV is setup for cable reception, you should auto-program your TV. This will program all the channels for your TV.
If you are using a VCR, it should be setup in a similar fashion. The TV should be set to channel 3 or 4 to interface with your VCR or cable converter properly.
Please refer to your owner's manual of your TV, VCR, or cable converter on how to do this.
Why is my Cable TV not working?
Make sure your TV is connected to the cable outlet and that the cord you are using is securely attached.
Program your TV for cable reception.
Is your TV cable ready? Just checking!
If you are using a VCR, make sure that you have it wired properly. Program your VCR for cable reception.
Why do I see regular air channels like 2, 8, 13, 14, 20, 26, 39, etc?
Your TV is set up to receive the air channels. Program it to receive cable.
Why do I see only channels 2 to 13?
Your TV can pick up these channels if it is not set up. Program your TV for cable reception to see the other channels.
Why don't I see all the cable channels?
Dial in a channel that is not showing up. If it works, your TV needs to be auto programmed to memorize all the working channels. If a few channels still do not work, and other people on your floor have the same problem, our cable equipment may need repair.
Why is one of the channels scrambled or displays a number to call?
We may have to call our provider to correct the problem.
This is usually caused by poor contact from the outlet to your TV. Check you cord for damage. If the problem is common on your floor, our cable equipment may need repair.
Why are there diagonal lines moving across the screen?
The equipment on your floor may need adjusting.
Why can't I see the HBO channel?
HBO is a premium channel. If you did pay for it, the equipment on your floor may need repair.
