[mythtv-users] Way OT: ota signal via cable?

[Brian Wood]

On Jun 7, 2006, at 10:06 AM, Steven Adeff wrote:

> On 6/6/06, Jay Hutfles <jayhutfles at gmail.com> wrote:
>> This is a really, REALLY newbie question, but is it common for cable
>> companies to send the local OTA signals for non-subscribers?  We  
>> have Cox
>> Cable in our area, but I'm not a subscriber.  Do I need to install an
>> antenna, or can I get my free channels just by plugging into the line
>> leading to my future house?
>>
>> Thanks for your patience with my way OT question and for any  
>> feedback!
>
> Most cable companies put a device to block any signals going to
> unsubscribed houses, so odds are you won't get anything.
>
> Some will just block cable channels and leave the OTA channels
> available over their lines. It may be worth calling Cox and asking
> what their policy is. Some companies even have an OTA tier for
> something like $5 a month where they will let you get just the OTA
> channels off their line.

Usually that "really basic" tier includes other stimulating  
entertainment like C-SPAN, Local Origination and the Home Shopping  
Channel (They get paid per subscriber for each home they can deliver  
as a "viewer" of HSN, and the L.O. stuff usually has to be delivered  
per Franchise Agreement).

If you're really lucky you'll also get other edge-of-seat material  
like local City Council meetings and High School football.

In truth it's usually not a bad deal for $4 or $5 a month.

Cable has certainly come a long way from the days when it existed  
only in those areas where you could not get off-air reception with an  
antenna.