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

Steven Adeff adeffs.mythtv at gmail.com
Wed Jun 7 16:34:16 UTC 2006


On 6/7/06, Brian Wood <beww at beww.org> wrote:
> 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.

yay public access!


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

considering the cost of a good antenna, mounting, signal strength
issues, etc. I agree.

> 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.

for better or worse...

-- 
Steve
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