Comcast to encrypt basic cable channels

Comcast to encrypt basic cable channels
Comcast has begun telling customers that it is preparing to encrypt its basic cable signals, meaning some customers will need a new digital adapter if they want to even receive any basic programming.

The adapters will be free in some markets, and one model will work with third-party set-top boxes, like those by Scientific Atlanta and Motorola.



If you already use Comcast set-top boxes connected to all your TVs, you need not worry, but if you have any devices connected directly to the cable outlet without a set-top, you will need the adapter.

The adapters will be tiny boxes that include their own remote control and connect to the TV through the coaxial cable.

"We are beginning to proactively notify customers in select markets that we will begin to encrypt limited basic channels as now permitted by last year's FCC B1 Encryption Order," said the company (via OM). "While the vast majority of our customers won't be impacted because they already have digital equipment connected to their TVs, we understand this will be a change for a small number of customers and will be making it as convenient as possible for them to get the digital equipment they may need to continue watching limited basic channels."

Comcast is the first to scramble the signals since the FCC changed the rules to allow such a move last year.

Written by: Andre Yoskowitz @ 15 Apr 2013 22:52
Tags
encryption Comcast Set-Top
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  • 10 comments
  • ivymike

    They already have done this in my area which is why I'll soon be dumping my Basic Antenna Service from Comca$t in favor of FTA Satellite (Free-to-Air Satellite).

    15.4.2013 23:00 #1

  • megadunderhead

    and this is funny because this just means people will just connect the new boxes to there tv recorders record there tv show decrypt it and still pirate it

    so you didn't do jack

    16.4.2013 01:45 #2

  • Mysttic

    Quote:and this is funny because this just means people will just connect the new boxes to there tv recorders record there tv show decrypt it and still pirate it

    so you didn't do jack
    I think this is more to prevent people from simply stealing from the cable line directly. Old school methods of stealing a connection from someone else's cable line will no longer be effective. On that grounds, their goal would succeed.

    16.4.2013 09:44 #3

  • dEwMe

    Originally posted by Mysttic:

    I think this is more to prevent people from simply stealing from the cable line directly. Old school methods of stealing a connection from someone else's cable line will no longer be effective. On that grounds, their goal would succeed.
    Yes and also they can now control how many TVs you hook up in your house. I really hate paying additional every month to get digital on a second TV.

    Just my $0.02,

    dEwMe

    16.4.2013 13:21 #4

  • Red_Forman

    And the death of TV continues.

    I'll stick my foot up your ass.

    16.4.2013 17:19 #5

  • Semperfipal

    This was the last nail in the coffin IMO. Programming sucks on cable tv, satellite is the same, so its free via antenna to me, plus Netflix and Hulu Plus after canceling Comcast this morning.

    "Do not underestimate the power of an enemy, no matter how great or small, to rise against you another day." - Atilla

    16.4.2013 18:11 #6

  • xboxdvl2

    don't know what it means by coaxial cable.pretty sure you could use a splitter of some sort to use more than 1 tv.

    i have the big screen tv,a ps3 and 5.1 channel surround sound.car still runs smooth and computer still works but its a bit outdated.

    17.4.2013 03:38 #7

  • molsen

    Originally posted by xboxdvl2: don't know what it means by coaxial cable.pretty sure you could use a splitter of some sort to use more than 1 tv. You could the old way (by ways f a splitter). Now you need a box for each tv. Unless you split after the box and 2 tvs in the house would watch the same programming.

    17.4.2013 06:30 #8

  • xboxdvl2

    Originally posted by molsen: Originally posted by xboxdvl2: don't know what it means by coaxial cable.pretty sure you could use a splitter of some sort to use more than 1 tv. You could the old way (by ways f a splitter). Now you need a box for each tv. Unless you split after the box and 2 tvs in the house would watch the same programming. i was thinking of rf splitter after the box.judging by pics on google coaxial cable looks like what goes to the wall socket before you run another wire to the tv.

    i have the big screen tv,a ps3 and 5.1 channel surround sound.car still runs smooth and computer still works but its a bit outdated.

    17.4.2013 07:44 #9

  • BobShaft

    So many rate increases over the last few years and now this...

    I don't want another box, remote, more wiring, etc.

    Goodbye Comcast

    19.4.2013 19:26 #10

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