STB/Digital Cable Dilemmas

[TalkingRat]

Back when I cared about Comcast, I'd heard that in the East, Comcast was interpreting clear channel requirements as applying only to analog signals, and had started encrypting local HD. People speculated that it was their test case to see if they got away with it. In the NW, they are putting filters on the limited basic customers' lines to block channels 33-70, and the expectation is that within a month of converting expanded analog customers to digital, they will move all unencrypted channels to channels 33-70, so limited basic customers get only what they pay for.

As far as Comcast deals go, in our area, customer reps are utterly unwilling to barter, but if you ask for cancellation services, you get a deal. I tried half a dozen times to get the same deal Comcast gave my neighbor, and when I gave up and called to cancel, they offered me the deal, which was digital starter for $33 for 6 months. I lasted 3 months and cancelled the whole thing. There are a few stations I miss, but they are not worth $720/year.

[jegrant]

Okay i am not sure where you get your info. but the box is not for encryption. the box allows a two communication between your box and comcast allowing for instant channel changes ( incase you order ppv or hbo etc) and allows you to run ondemand movies instantly without loading.

Why would anybody want to buy a cable box? So if it breaks down you can buy another. I'd rather "rent" one and call Comcast when it needs replacing.

The box is not for encryption?
So it's just my imagination that Comcast encrypts a lot of its digital lineup?