[mythtv-users] mythtv & the future of HD

[David Brieck Jr.]

On Nov 14, 2007 3:14 PM, Tony Brummett <brummett at gmail.com> wrote:
> On 11/14/07, Brad DerManouelian <myth at dermanouelian.com> wrote:
> > On Nov 14, 2007, at 11:47 AM, Tony Brummett wrote:
> > > That's completely dependent on you local cable franchise.  At my
> > > location, I can't get _any_ HD from the cable.  All the relevant QAM
> > > channels are encrypted so I can't tune them directly, and they're
> > > marked as not free to copy with the 5C settings, so I can't  get 'em
> > > through the firewire on the cable box.
> >
> > Then they are out of compliance with the FCC.
>
> I keep hearing this, but I haven't seen any proof that it's true.
>
> Everyone seems to agree that the must-carry and in-the-clear rules
> applies to local analog stations.  Many people believe that the rules
> also apply to local digital channels, but I don't know of any
> definitive decision either way.  In fact, my local cable company
> doesn't carry the local ABC HD station at all right now because of a
> contract dispute.
>
> But I don't think anyone has tried to argue that those rules apply to
> cable-only stations, SD or HD.
>
> -- Tony
>

Here is the response I received from the FCC via their contact form
online. I had asked them why my local provider (Blue Ridge Cable in
Ephrata PA) encrypts all of their QAM signals, even the free-to-air
ones, especially including the HD channels.

<-- Begin Response -->

"Digital cable" and high definition programming on cable are not the
same.  If you want to watch HDTV programming on cable, you will need
to subscribe to your cable provider's HDTV package and view the
programming on an HDTV set.  You may also need a set-top box or other
equipment to view HDTV programming.  Check with your cable provider to
find out what kinds of programming you can receive, and what equipment
you need to receive it.

The current requirement to switch from analog to digital only applies
to full-power broadcast TV stations, which use the public airwaves to
provide free over-the-air programming.  However, as cable providers
convert to digital transmissions over their systems, you may need to
subscribe to their digital tier to continue to receive this
non-broadcast programming.

Your cable system decides when and whether to carry programming on a
digital tier, which may mean that you will need digital equipment.
However, all of your local stations will continue to be available in
analog format for as long as your cable system offers any analog
service.

<-- End  Response -->

Not very encouraging.........