New C31 Client adds HDCP on ALL Channels.

[Scott Greczkowski]

According to a document obtained by SatelliteGuys News the upcoming C31 client for the HR-34 (Soon to be rebranded as the GENIE) will be the first DIRECTV receiver to add HDCP (High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection) to ALL channels output over HDMI.

According to the document it states, "It has been determined that the C31 Client and future Client models will enforce HDCP copy protection on ALL programming displayed. This is different from HDCP copy protection enforcement for IRDs in that they will only enforce HDCP copy protection on premium movie channels, PPV movies, and most broadband VOD content. Customers who have an HDMI
connection to a non-compliant TV will receive an on-screen error message on ALL channels when connected to a C31 Client."

Customers who wish to use HDMI will be encouraged to purchase a new "HDCP Compliant" television.

For those with older sets they will be encouraged to switch to component cables, which will require a special 10 Pin DIN component cable. DIRECTV is instructing techs to carry an adequate stock of these cables on their trucks. For audio these customer can use the Red and White audio cables on the component cable, or use a digital audio cable.

[ZandarKoad]

Oh boy. This could cause some issues in the field...



Very very good to know about it now, rather than learn about it onsite.

[jdspencer]

Let's hope the CSRs are getting appropriate training!

[raoul5788]

Let's hope the CSRs are getting appropriate training!

I doubt it. Some of them still think you need a Samsung tv to order an HR34!

[harshness]

This is not going to go well. I'm thinking this whole HDCP thing that DIRECTV is doing is going to do damage to HDCP and the HDMI standard as they apply HDCP inappropriately and/or incorrectly.

Theory holds that if the TV doesn't support HDCP, there isn't supposed to be a usable HD signal coming out of the STB. DIRECTV appears turning that upside down and encouraging everyone to opt for component and all but beg their customers to exploit the Analog Hole.

It is also folly to assume that the HDCP failure is necessarily the fault of the TV.

[ZandarKoad]

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Can you get an HDCP adaptor for your TV to make it compliant?

::snicker::snort::