Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? in Comcast Cable TV http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20676718 en Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:20:33 EDT Wed, 11 Nov 2009 14:20:33 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20771130 ak3883 :
said by bennor See Profile :

Some people have no need for a STB and could care less about On-Demand or the interactive guide, and are just wondering why Comcast cannot take those 1-99 analog channels they receive now and turn them over to clear QAM so they can continue to receive them on supported digital TVs without the need to rent a box for each digital TV.
Comcast has ordered a ton of these devices that do just that. They are a cheap in-line adaptor that costs $40 that allows you to tune the digital channels with a conventional TV. No guide. No Ondemand. Hopefully the rental per month wouldn't be more than a buck, heck they should give people a couple if they want them, for other TVs not watched enough to warrent a box.

Making them ClearQAM won't happen, as mentioned above, what is to stop someone from getting the local $17/month basic no frills package and then get all the channels like ESPN, w/o paying for them? Right now they have traps on taps that filter out channels 20ish-70ish if you only subscribe to basic cable. It is in Comcast's best interest to go away from that method, so they can reduce the number of truck rolls, problems/issues with the traps, etc.

There was something that allowed you to get all the channels using a QAM tuner, and not use a cable box. That something is a CableCARD, and they didn't exactly take off like many thought they would. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20771130 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:47:28 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20770773 CleanGene : Most areas will have "expanded" basic service, along with "limited" basic service. "Limited" is typically your local stations only, plus a few extras like QVC and such. The price varies from area to area, but in this state it runs anywhere from $10-$21/month. The way you limit those channels on an analog system is by installing a filter on the line that blocks out all the *other* analog channels - ESPN, A&E, CNN, whatever - so the subscriber only gets that basic local package of channels. With "expanded" service, you pull the filter off, and then all the analog channels come through.

But with digital, you can't filter channels that way - you need some way to control access and maintain the difference between "limited" and "expanded". So you do that by encrypting at least the expanded channels, and letting the box/cablecard/whatever handle the authorization for that package. Otherwise, you'd have people signing up for the $15 package, and getting the same exact service as the guy next door paying $50+ for expanded service. And your local cableco will go broke in a hurry with that sort of arrangement. ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20770773 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 15:39:36 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20770188 Ebolla :
said by bennor See Profile :

Last I checked my cable wasn't filtered, without the STB (I have one) my non STB TVs would only receive analog channels as that's all some of my TVs can tune.
You are correct it currently is going to all those tv's due to the fact that the tv's are reading the analog feed, even with a QAM tuner it is still reading your channels below 100 in analog, the local broadcast are unencrypted on digital, the expanded (this area approx.22-100) are encrypted on digital. On the analog side there are filters or "traps" that block the expanded channels if you do not subscribe to expanded. If the digital side was unencrypted then anyone with basic cable only (2-22/23) and a QAM tuner on tv would recieve all stations. Not exactly fair for people who pay for standard when a neighbor pays $30-$0 less for same services.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20770188 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 13:52:20 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769451 PGHammer : Comcast doesn't mention it because it is largely technical (worse, the number and content of such unencrypted channels will differ from system to system). Also, to receive these channels without a STB, the customer will still need to purchase a new ClearQAM-capable TV (like it or not, such TVs are *still* not the norm at the low end of FPTV sales; the norm here is still ATSC-only or TVs with support for NTSC/ATSC and HDMI, which means the STB is still needed). While there are more such sets in the middle end, even there, it's still not reached the status of the check-box item that it is with either projection TVs or even plasmas (in fact, how common is ClearQAM support on sub-$2000 LCD HDTVs today, compared to projection HDTVs or even plasmas in the same price range?).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769451 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 11:31:41 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769251 bennor :
said by CleanGene See Profile :

It's about access control and preserving the tiers that currently exist, obviously. If you send out all the channels, 1-99, in the clear, what's to stop someone from signing up for the $17 local-only package, and then effectively getting the expanded service at no cost? Remember, this is digital, so you can't really filter it at the tap the way you can with analog. And while I'm sure everyone would like to get ESPN for free, that's just not in the cards.
Last I checked my cable wasn't filtered, without the STB (I have one) my non STB TVs would only receive analog channels as that's all some of my TVs can tune. As far as I know there's no filtering other than encryption or un-encryption being done (on analog and or digital transmissions) on my line from Comcast. My understanding of a cable "tap" is that a tap is the point where a cable drop connects to the service line that runs into my home/apartment/condo. Does the "tap" actually "filter" what comes into ones home?

Comcast, (apparently) from what I remember when I initially got them a few years ago, offered the "basic tier" package that was strictly the analog 1-99 channels which one would receive with their digital and non digital TV. Then they had the "premium tiered" packages where I needed a (digital) STB to receive the channels on the tier I was subscribed to. With the move to all digital my premium tier won't be affected since I have one STB on one TV for that. But when they switch over the analog 1-99 channels over to digital and encrypt all but the locals, how does that benefit me if I have all digital TVs that can do Clear QAM? I now need to rent a box where I didn't have to before. That is what I haven't seen adequately explained by Comcast. Some people have no need for a STB and could care less about On-Demand or the interactive guide, and are just wondering why Comcast cannot take those 1-99 analog channels they receive now and turn them over to clear QAM so they can continue to receive them on supported digital TVs without the need to rent a box for each digital TV. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769251 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 10:45:08 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769025 CleanGene :
said by bennor See Profile :

Why cannot they just take the current analog lineup and move it over to unencrypted QAM? Some of us see this as nothing more than a money grab by Comcast if they encrypt everything other than the local channels on "Clear QAM" when they move to all digital.
It's about access control and preserving the tiers that currently exist, obviously. If you send out all the channels, 1-99, in the clear, what's to stop someone from signing up for the $17 local-only package, and then effectively getting the expanded service at no cost? Remember, this is digital, so you can't really filter it at the tap the way you can with analog. And while I'm sure everyone would like to get ESPN for free, that's just not in the cards.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769025 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:59:54 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769009 wings10 :
said by caddyroger See Profile :

Sounds you just need got ota. all you have to is go buy 4 analog to digital converter boxes
That will not help him pick up the Comcast channels he's talking about.
--
"The American Indians found out what happens when you don't control immigration."]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20769009 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:56:16 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768975 bennor :
said by PGHammer See Profile :

Excuse me; Comcast does not encrypt so much as one local HDTV channel in this area (Comcast of Prince George's County).
I think what the poster was trying to say; as I, and a few others have said previously is this. Comcast is now implying that we will need to have a box for every TV (that doesn't have one now) if we want to continue to receive the basic (local and non local) channels that we receive now via analog. This isn't so much about the local channels but all the other ones that we receive WITHOUT the use of a box. For example I receive somewhere in the neighborhood of 70 analog channels without the use of a box and of that, perhaps 10 are local channels. Comcast is implying that I now have to have a box for each TV that doesn't have one when they go all digital to continue to receive those basic non local channels (even if I have an HDTV with a QAM tuner).

A good many people out there don't understand OTA, QAM, Analog standards that many have mentioned here. They are confused by the switch over to digital OTA, and the cable switch over to digital. They are confused as to what they need in order to receive what they currently receive NOW with or without a box. If they are forced to rent a box for TVs that don't have them now they will question why? As some of us are already doing.

What I'm asking is why doesn't Comcast even mention the unencrypted digital when they promote their digital services to the masses? Why cannot they just take the current analog lineup and move it over to unencrypted QAM? Some of us see this as nothing more than a money grab by Comcast if they encrypt everything other than the local channels on "Clear QAM" when they move to all digital. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768975 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 09:48:55 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768700 Greg_Z : Hell, even PBS has a nice program with Nick Clooney telling about the Digital Transision.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768700 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 08:38:28 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768149 PGHammer :
said by duh :

My question is why do we need a comcast digital cable box to get analog channels we already have? So they move the channels to digital. I have digital TVs with QAM tuners, I should be able to get those same basic non broadcast channels un-encrypted with my QAM tuner. Comcast doesn't have to charge anyone an additional dime with extra box fees. It's their CHOOSE to nickel and dime their customers to death. They could move all the channels to digital and give the customer and choose get QAM tunners in their TVs or rent a box. They chose the latter option but making you subscribe to something extra and charge for each TV that you get now for a bundle price. Pretty cut and dry here.
Excuse me; Comcast does not encrypt so much as one local HDTV channel in this area (Comcast of Prince George's County). Some have been relocated (WRC, WTTG, and WUSA all moved); however, I can still get them all on my single ClearQAM HDTV (my Philips 42PF7320A/37A). If you can't get a local HDTV channel unencrypted from Comcast, it's not due to encryption, but likely due to your TV's QAM tuner not being 256QAM-capable, if it even supports ClearQAM at all. (There are still several TVs that are marketed as HDTVs that don't support ClearQAM; this is especially true at Wal-Mart.)

In fact, speaking of lineup changes, the following channels (all HD, no less) are all migrating to Digital Starter (from Digital Classic) effective 8/1/2008 (at least in Prince George's County, MD):

A&EHD (223)
HD Theater (formerly Discovery HD Theater (225)
MOJO (226)
MHD (MTV-HD) (227)
HGTV-HD (229)
Food Network-HD (231)
USA-HD (235)
Sci-Fi-HD (236)
TNT-HD (249)
Universal HD (250)
CSN-HD (251)
ESPN-HD (252)
ESPN2-HD (253)
Versus/Golf Channel HD (254)

While some of this can be *explained away* by the Olympics, most of it has not a thing to do with the Olympics, or even with sports. The biggest surpise is, in fact, ESPNHD and ESPN2HD *both* moving to Digital Starter (the last time I was this shocked by the Mouse House was when the Disney Channel moved down to basic!). What other surprises does Comcast have in the programming department?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768149 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 02:20:28 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768018 PGHammer :
said by ak3883 See Profile :

said by Rob See Profile :

said by Greg2600 See Profile :

I'm with this person. Although I would be willing to pay say 3.99 for a simple box for extra TV's, I am not willing to pay an "outlet" fee. Again, I think Comcast are alone in this pricing scheme compared to FIOS and Satellite.
Comcast really doesn't charge an "outlet" fee, they charge a rental fee. They call it "outlet" because they identify everything as an "outlet". You can have 1000 TVs hooked up in your home, to Comcast's analog service, and not pay any extra for each "outlet".

On the bills, they identify the boxes as "Digital A/O", but really it's the box itself.

And they aren't alone in this pricing scheme - every provider charges a rental fee per month.
If this was the case, I would pay $1 or $2 for a CableCARD for my TV, in addition to my HD-DVR. But they would charge another $8ish for "add'tl digital outlet" and I'm not renting a box.

I'm sure there are people who can confirm this, but if you only have a DVR as your primary outlet and nothing else on your account, then if you got a CableCard it isn't gonna cost you just another dollar or two per month, right?
Actually, in most cases, you are not charged *at all* for the first CableCARD on any account. More often than not, you can get digital STBs (either full-size or the smaller DCT-7xx sort) for either a reduced fee, or, depending on the offer and region, no fee at all. (Data point: we have two digital STBs; one full-sized DCT-25xx and one DCT-711, along with Digital Starter/HBO/Starz. Because of the nature of the promotion (digital/VOD step-up for existing customers), we get free HBO and Starz for six months, and we aren't charged for the DCT-711 during the same period. If we wanted, I can still add a CC for the one CC-ready TV (my bedroom plasma, which is not connected to an STB), and our bill *still* won't increase.)
That full-sized STB (DCT-25xx) replaced an analog STB when the local system went ADS two years back, and our bill actually went down as a result (digital converter cost less to lease than the analog converter it replaced!); if you look at the typical fee schedule, this is usually the case.
Finally, Digital Starter not only includes Extended Basic (the old Standard Service), there is typically no additional charge for the increased programming choices. (Simultaneously with the ADS conversion, we went from Standard to Digital Starter, and our bill has not increased. On the HSI side, we were also crossgraded from Performance Plus (8000/768k) to Blast (16386k/2048k), also at no charge. Typically, if a channel moves from the lower sub-100 channels, it will remain in Digital Starter (which means, other than the STB lease fee, your bill does not increase); that was indeed the case with ShopNBC two years ago, when it moved to Digital Starter from Expanded Basic, and truTV (formerly Court TV) which made the same move this year.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20768018 Thu, 10 Jul 2008 01:21:15 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20762761 anon : My question is why do we need a comcast digital cable box to get analog channels we already have? So they move the channels to digital. I have digital TVs with QAM tuners, I should be able to get those same basic non broadcast channels un-encrypted with my QAM tuner. Comcast doesn't have to charge anyone an additional dime with extra box fees. It's their CHOOSE to nickel and dime their customers to death. They could move all the channels to digital and give the customer and choose get QAM tunners in their TVs or rent a box. They chose the latter option but making you subscribe to something extra and charge for each TV that you get now for a bundle price. Pretty cut and dry here. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20762761 Wed, 09 Jul 2008 07:15:20 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20750138 BSD24 : For every analog station you can put in place of it - 12 digital based channels. It frees up bandwidth. Most new TV providers are already 100% all digital all channels. For example you leave Comcast and go to Verizon Fios you will still need a box for every room that you have an analog television. Because Verizon is 100% digital, whereas Comcast still has many analog stations - Verizon has none. Comcast needs to compete, therefore it is critical to get rid of those analog channels to free up space for HD, Docsis3.0 (faster internet) and more Digital Channels (which requires less space per channel than analog).

This is why Comcast is behind in internet speeds and HD channels, because they have analog customers still. Other providers that don't - already have the bandwidth to provide more HD channels more digital and faster internet speeds.

Althought it may only be 7-17 channels right now, keep in mind more will be moving later. Comcast will be eliminating more analog channels, and moving those channels over to digital. The only channels that will probably be in analog the longest will be the broadcast stations (locals like ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS...). ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20750138 Sun, 06 Jul 2008 19:10:08 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20747250 Anonymous_ :
said by Digital00000001 :

Analog cable is like a horse and buggy; digital is like a solar-powered car.

Understand now? :D
but if the solar panls are too small it will go slow

in this case of being video it will look like crap]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20747250 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 22:30:20 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20747176 ComcastTech : a. its only 4 dollars a month.

b. we can charge additional outlets.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20747176 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 22:07:50 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20745643 anon : I agree and to make matters worse no other cable service is available in my area (Weirton,WV)due to Verizon not interested in running the lines. Digital is hot and heavy in promoting however you are restricted to the same channel per tv unless you have a decoder box. (sounds like Comcast).In the flyer Comcast sent there is no mention of "expanded Basic service". My opinion is this is a corporate maneuver to increase revenue without outright repricing all levels of cable service.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20745643 Sat, 05 Jul 2008 14:28:12 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20724751 bicker :
said by roveer See Profile :

Because if it's digital but clear than I won't complain, but if it's encrypted than I will because they are taking something away, or making you pay more for it.
Complaining, but still subscribing, is pointless. If you really don't think it is worth it, unsubscribe and do without. The point is that the MSO is supposed to charge what the market is willing to pay, because they're required to operate in the best financial interests of their owners. Moving away from physical traps (which is how a lot of in-the-clear extended basic analog channels are delivered) to encrypted QAM is a very substantial cost-saver, and therefore such a move represents an MSO being responsible.

said by roveer See Profile :

Is everyone who tore into him OK with that?
I'm okay with people putting their money with their mouths are. If you really don't like the price, don't make the purchase. Otherwise, accept that what you're purchasing is worth what you're paying. You cannot have it both ways.

said by roveer See Profile :

Sorry for such vitrial but we as consumers are allowing ourselves to be sold inferior products under the guise of "new, better, more" Unfortunatly it's the more part that allows most people to accept worse. All we want is "more". Here dumb people, have more...
And there is nothing more despicable than the sentiment that people are too stupid to make their purchasing decisions in their own best interest. :uhh:]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20724751 Tue, 01 Jul 2008 07:35:21 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20722315 OverRunMama : I just called Comcast back, I guess someone has been hitting the wrong button and people who are ordering these boxes are getting an empty box to return their Box instead of the Self-install Box they wanted. I have not been the only one, been getting calls all day I guess. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20722315 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 18:12:18 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20722241 OverRunMama : Thank you Roveer, you totally explained my disgust about having to pay more for absolutely nothing. You worded it much better than myself. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20722241 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:55:23 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20722195 OverRunMama : Listen to what just happened to me...I ordered this free box a week ago when calling Comcast, here today, The ups man delivers this huge black box, when we opened it up, It was EMPTY!!!!!! Now I had to call Comcast and explain that something is terribly wrong here, that I was delivered an empty Box-with no box in it at all. He said he would have to talk to his supervivor and try to track whatever serial Number mine was supposed to be. This is just rediculous, I can't believe this just happened! I have to wait until they get back to me now, they said it would be tonight. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20722195 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 17:47:43 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20721940 roveer : I too am guilty of not making the distinction about comcasts advertising about the 2009 switch to digital. I learned there is a difference.

I have two obervations:

1. I've seen a number of posts here saying "analog is dead", digital is better. If you have a nice strong analog signal I would make the arguement that it is better than digital any day. Digital is full of motion artifacts and break-ups. Of course It's impossible to even make that comparison today since so much of the signal is digital, even your analog signal is digital in the back-end. It's a macro infested artifacted mess, especially in high motion scenes. Ever watch the news and they show a picture with a lot of camera flashes going off, doesn't it look fake the way the entire picture gets all pixelly, sparkley, fake.

You've been trained to accept this. Never would have seen this in analog.

It's the same as satellite radio. Bit rate is so low that the music sounds like crap. You've been trained to accept this because they give you 100 channels of crap and that makes most people happy.

MP3 at 128K-- sounds like crap, but you've been trained to accept this. 10,000 songs on your ipod. Great except they all sound like crap. Yeah, but it's 10,000 Did you know that a CD is more than 1,200k. They threw away 9/10ths of the song and you don'g think that changes the sone.

So for those who think digital is 'better' go buy a few more .99 cent 128k songs from the apple store and rock-on.

My second observation is more of a question.

When comcast moves channels from analog to digital (let's use MSNBC as an example) is that channel going to be clear QAM or encoded? Because if it's digital but clear than I won't complain, but if it's encrypted than I will because they are taking something away, or making you pay more for it. This all results in cost increases. If I pay $60/month for cable now but in a few months have to pay $90 just to keep watching the same channels, well that's 66% more for the same thing. That's no small increase. And while everyone wants to tear apart the original posters comments, his original theme was just that. Less for more. Is everyone who tore into him OK with that? Or does 90+ a month for TV sit good with you? Because it'll just keep going up, until all of the channels are a macroblocked digital mess. But you'll have a 1,000 of them...

Sorry for such vitrial but we as consumers are allowing ourselves to be sold inferior products under the guise of "new, better, more" Unfortunatly it's the more part that allows most people to accept worse. All we want is "more". Here dumb people, have more...

Roveer]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20721940 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 16:56:59 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20721124 Steely :
said by fiberguy See Profile :

Further, and this is going to shock everyone that knows of me and my opinion, but I'm going to go on record here, right now.

Comcast is being ripped out of my home this Monday.

Yes, even the so-called "shill" has had it with the bull shit minor policies of Comcast.

when it comes to Comcast.... GOTTA GO!
I must be dreaming! Somebody, pinch me!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20721124 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 14:15:21 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20720982 DaveNJ :
said by fiberguy See Profile :

Yea... pretty much ;)
Dang. I am about to that point as well, but i am giving them one more chance to redeem themselves. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20720982 Mon, 30 Jun 2008 13:48:01 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20713687 fiberguy : Yea... pretty much ;)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20713687 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 18:30:07 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20711926 cypherstream : Hell had just frozen over :o]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20711926 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 09:12:21 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20711633 fiberguy : In all honesty, I don't understand why this issue isn't pushed more. This is the time to do it, after all, while the FCC is stacked against them.

Further, and this is going to shock everyone that knows of me and my opinion, but I'm going to go on record here, right now.

Comcast is being ripped out of my home this Monday. I'm not even waiting for Qwest to port any phone numbers, and I'm going to do with out TV until DirecTV can be installed. (Already have the dish on my roof)

Yes, even the so-called "shill" has had it with the bull shit minor policies of Comcast.

It doesn't change my mind about the over all make up of cable VS. phone, but when it comes to Comcast.... GOTTA GO! I've been considering posting a review and spill the beans why, after my blood pressure returns to normal.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20711633 Sat, 28 Jun 2008 05:35:54 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20707466 MadMANN :
said by Hangmn See Profile :

the OTA ban is not ABOUT local stations, its about analog OTA transmision, any channel any where needs to cease analog OTA by the deadline.
. . .which typically are your LOCAL stations. If they were not LOCAL, you wouldn't be able to pick them up anyway. Let's split hairs.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20707466 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:25:56 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706985 Greg2600 :
said by fiberguy See Profile :

PERSONALLY, I do NOT agree with this. You rent the device - period. I think it's a total rip to the customer that they charge to mirror services. I believe it's technically the same as charging for an analog outlet the way they decided can't be done. (ie: charging for the signal itself) Many comcast systems don't charge the two fees. It seems to be more of an east coast thing than it is a west coast or mid west thing for comcast.
Thanks for supporting my point. This is one of my two biggest arguments against Comcast of Union, NJ, the other being the laughable selection of HD channels. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706985 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 09:46:18 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706762 Hangmn :
said by MadMANN See Profile :

said by OverRunMama See Profile :

I have Comcast ANOLOG cable (approx 70 channels for $55 a month), I have all anolog TV's , and I know in Feb 2009, Comcast boasts that for people like myself, nothing needs to be done (make is simple)--- well Comcast LIES. Because they are taking appox 8 channels I normally get without a Stupid Box & putting them in the channel 200's (this includes TV guide network, Hallmark channel & MSNBC-which I do watch).
Not one of those channels you mentioned are broadcast channels. Comcast makes it clear that your broadcast (aka local) channels will remain in analog format with them. How are they lying?

Never did Comcast or any other cable company ever claim that you will always have all of those cable networks in analog. The Feb 2009 deadline has always been about local channels and nothing more. Many pay no attention or hear only what they want to hear, even though there are dozens of resources, and then blame everyone else that they were misinformed.
the OTA ban is not ABOUT local stations, its about analog OTA transmision, any channel any where needs to cease analog OTA by the deadline.
--
»davescustompc.com]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706762 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:42:09 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706453 bicker : I'm sorry; I didn't mean to push the issue further than it is intended to be. I think it is important to distinguish between your perspective (i.e., that you do not "agree" with them charging the mirroring charge) from what some others in this thread insinuated earlier: that MSOs aren't allowed to do as they're doing. Reasonable people can disagree about what pricing they like, but such personal preferences don't affect what is permitted (only the law does, and the law doesn't prohibit the digital A/O fee for mirroring service) and such personal preferences don't affect what should be charged (only customer purchasing behaviors affect that). That was the only point I was trying to make.

It is interesting to learn that this is an east coast thing; I didn't know that. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706453 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 05:54:03 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706048 fiberguy : I most certainly did not contradict myself. Seriously.. let me retype that line.

DIGITAL outlets CAN be charged. The DIGITAL portion of the outlet is what comes from the ass end of the box, not the cable. I've only been talking digital.. and, I cant' contradict myself when it's not my policy/law/regulation to make changes to. It's the same law I read and enforced back in the 90s and it's the very same law we're talking about right now.

Second point: The mirroring fee. You've been charged that by satellite for years, since conception. Remember when you purchased your own box? You were charged a "MIRROR" fee... it was to charge to so-call "mirror" the digital programming on the second box. SOME cable systems also charge for a box. Here, they charge you for the box and that's it. WHY you have a A/O and a "DIGITAL A/O" (when not charged) is for the billing system so they can distinguish the difference to the controller. No disrespect, but you're really trying to push this issue too far than it's intended to be. Focus on the analog outlets, not digital.

Third.. a cable card is a "converter" / equipment. So, what you just did in your last paragraph just agreed with what I said in the second one. I'll sum up the "mirror" or "digital a/o" charge.. it's called a loop hole. SOME systems still charge both. In fact, this is the Media-Com way.. additional digital outlets are about $10.00 each. They charge a converter fee and a gateway fee.

PERSONALLY, I do NOT agree with this. You rent the device - period. I think it's a total rip to the customer that they charge to mirror services. I believe it's technically the same as charging for an analog outlet the way they decided can't be done. (ie: charging for the signal itself) Many comcast systems don't charge the two fees. It seems to be more of an east coast thing than it is a west coast or mid west thing for comcast.

]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20706048 Fri, 27 Jun 2008 01:25:19 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20701010 bicker :
said by fiberguy See Profile :

Digital outlets CAN be charged. What makes a digital outlet? The equipment - period.
But then you contradict yourself:
said by fiberguy See Profile :

They can charge to mirror services to an addressable converter AND the converter itself.
So what you're saying here is that they're charging to mirror something. You don't get anything for the fee you're paying. That's what people (including me) mean when we say you're paying for a service. They're charging for some software feature running on their equipment to interact with your (digital) equipment as if it were theirs. Again, that's a service in my book. I don't think the words matter as much as the effect: Folks wanting any encrypted digital services will pay a fee for each additional outlet beyond their first (which is not "free", but rather is "included" in their digital package fee). Not for any piece of equipment from the cable company. Just for being able to have digital service.

said by fiberguy See Profile :

They can charge to mirror services to an addressable converter AND the converter itself.
As I mentioned, I don't have an addressable converter "itself". I'm only charged the additional outlet fee, i.e., charged for mirroring service to my personal digital device. I'm also charged for CableCARD rental on top of that. That's all legal and the proper pricing policy, according to Comcast corporate in Philadelphia.

I suspect you and I just disagree about the words: You stated clearly that they can charge for two things on that same connection.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20701010 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 05:25:55 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20700917 fiberguy : I'd say it's fair, however, they are mis-leading the customer. They need to tell the customer that it's a "wire maintenance" fee, ant not an analog outlet fee. I'd bet that it's so out of the view of mainstream that no one has made a deal out of it. Blue Ridge doesn't have that many customers compared to many other providers out there.. Under 300K I believe.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20700917 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:09:38 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20700910 fiberguy : Please re-read. ANALOG outlets.. ie: cable plugged into the TV direct, is NOT allowed to be charged for by cable companies. This happened Mid-90's.

Digital outlets CAN be charged. What makes a digital outlet? The equipment - period. They can charge to mirror services to an addressable converter AND the converter itself.

I did not mis-state the law... yes, it's a law. I'm not sure if you know it or not but it IS law. Therefore, to charge for any standard hookup to a television in a monthly fee IS illegal.

I know this very well, as would anyone else that worked during this time, that it's not allowed by law. I used to be a "cable cop" who would go around looking for outlet hookups that were illegal. (not paid for)

When the new laws came about, we were no longer allowed to charge for them, HOWEVER, we did charge for the equipment.

Hope this clears it up for you. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20700910 Thu, 26 Jun 2008 04:07:38 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20697863 jmoz2989 : I got a reply. Apparently the analog outlet charge is so that if rolling a truck is necessary for an analog cable call, the customer will not be charged a maintenance fee. Sounds good to me, here is the reply:

Thank you for your email. Blue Ridge Communications charges our customers .50 for each additional TV outlet, This can be considered a line maintenance charge just like say a Telephone Company has. Since we bill our customers this fee, when it is necessary to do a service call our customers are not billed for the Technician to come to the house, to find the problem and correct it for the customer anytime of day, every day of the year.

This is something you will not find with a satellite company. With satellite service, service calls are not done in emergency conditions 24 hours a day, 365 days a year and there is a charge for each and every service call.

I hope the information I provided has been helpful. If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know

Desiree
BRC Customer Service
Contact us at:
1-800-CABLE77 ( 1-800-222-5377)or
1-800-622-8925
E-mail is answered from 8AM-5PM, Monday through Friday.
Live Chat available at www.brctv.com

Call Center Hours:
Available 24 hrs/7 days a week
(Except Major Holidays)
Check out our Email Newsletter:
»www.brctv.com/customer_care/cust···ndex.php
]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20697863 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 15:13:14 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20696291 Greg2600 : Well then the FCC should update its laws to prohibit charging for additional Digital outlets like it did for Analog. Yeah I know fat chance of that happening.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20696291 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 10:23:20 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20695421 bicker : Every time someone sees something that they don't like, they assume that someone is doing something wrong. With respect, fiberguy, without a citation that says explicitly that charging for service on a digital outlet is illegal then accept that in our society it likely isn't illegal. I know you mean well, but the reality is that they can and do charge an A/O fee for service on additional digital outlets.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20695421 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 04:43:35 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20695368 fiberguy : Ahh.. I looked and looked and didn't see that the first time around, Sorry. Yea.. they're not supposed to charge for those outlets. Someone there should read the Communications Act of 94. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20695368 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 04:07:22 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20695037 jmoz2989 : I was talking about the $.50 charge for an analog AO. I completely understand the 4.95 for a digital AO. I will ask a rep about the analog AO, no other cable company I know of charges for additional ANALOG outlets.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20695037 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:48:28 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694956 fiberguy : "Additional Digital Outlet $4.95/ outlet /month"

Blue Ridge is charging you for the DIGITAL service on the outlet; there technically is a difference between an analog AO and a digital AO. The analog can be picked up by your TV while the digital AO is actually the equipment.

If you just hooked up a TV to the basic tier on that outlet there would be no change.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694956 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:27:06 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694906 ssetta : I typed in my zip code, and it appears that one of the channels that is moving to digital is, of all channels…CN8! Wtf? Why in the WORLD would they want to move THAT to digital?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694906 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:11:26 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694859 jmoz2989 :
said by fiberguy See Profile :

Let me clear this up for you both.

It's illegal to charge a consumer for a simple analog outlet.

The fees charged to customers are for equipment and programming. SOME systems just require a box for the D A/O. Others, charge for the box AND the programming sep. with is legal.

It's NOT legal, however, to charge for the active outlet as was back in the early 90's.

I don't care WHAT system you live in and who provides the service.
Somehow this cable company still gets away with it around here: »www.brctv.com/lineups/pricing/ne···boro.php]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694859 Wed, 25 Jun 2008 00:01:44 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694771 CleanGene :
said by fiberguy See Profile :

The fees charged to customers are for equipment and programming. SOME systems just require a box for the D A/O. Others, charge for the box AND the programming sep. with is legal.
This is quite correct, and it's why the only definitive answer will come from your local office, really. Here in Virginia, in the western part of the state equipment and service are all rolled into one charge for additional outlets. $8.20 (or thereabouts - it varies from town to town) gets you a standard digital box and digital service for it. In northern Virginia, by contrast, you can see two charges for additional boxes - one for equipment rental, and one for "digital a/o" for the service, if you choose to subscribe to it. Other places around the country, I wouldn't even pretend to know how it works :)]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694771 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:42:39 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694683 fiberguy : Let me clear this up for you both.

It's illegal to charge a consumer for a simple analog outlet.

The fees charged to customers are for equipment and programming. SOME systems just require a box for the D A/O. Others, charge for the box AND the programming sep. with is legal.

It's NOT legal, however, to charge for the active outlet as was back in the early 90's.

I don't care WHAT system you live in and who provides the service.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694683 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:25:19 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694564 anon : That would be correct, since to keep the standard-def box it would go on 2nd outlet and the $6.99 charge would be applied.

Honestly even as an employee I think it is ridiculous to charge an outlet fee, I think we should just charge a box rental fee per box.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694564 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 23:00:12 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694463 fiberguy :
said by BrutusBeefcake :

I know the DTV transition is about local channels. However, when someone sees that commercials they think everything is fine for them without that STB.
If you know what is going on, then job done. Stop worrying about everyone else and what THEY may think.. they're the ones who are stupid!

... people will be ticked off. Rightfully so.
We'll I'd agree if Comcast was something wrong. Comcast isn't everyone's mommy and daddy. People need to be responsible for themselves; they need to stop finding every reason why someone wronged them; they need to start taking responsibility for their own destiny and stop pointing the finger at everyone else why they didn't get it in the first place.

TV signal changes in this country is HUGE. If people think it's that important to them, they should do their OWN research, not learn from an ad. Follow so far?

I can say that Comcast has said nothing wrong - period. However, I'd invite you to walk into a best buy or circuit city and ask them the same question and watch them sell you something you don't need. You want a reason to be ticked off? there you go. At least comcast isn't stealing people and misleading them to sell anything.

Call Comcast, IF you are a subscriber, and ask them about the change, You will not be told a lie.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694463 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 22:37:33 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694400 fiberguy :
said by BrutusBeefcake :

A lot of people are still confused about the 2/2009 transition. Comcast doesn't help the situation by saying don't worry, Comcast has you covered.
Are people THAT stupid then? The "change" involves LOCALS.. NOTHING more.

In this case, Comcast DOES have you covered. They are saying that for the change over, comcast customers don't need to make any changes as "Comcast has you covered" when it comes to this switch.

So please.. what does the switch in 2009 have to do with, say, MS NBC? Nothing.

People are just stupid. The sooner we stop pretending they aren't, the sooner this nation can move on.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694400 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 22:26:31 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694354 fiberguy : Well? Your bill should go down a little, you're right. But, they could also consider it a price increase as well if they disclose it in, say, a letter to you as well.

It's time to evolve to the next level of communications. People had to do it many times in the past, and this move on cable certainly won't be the last time people are shoved along to something new.

If you also look at the channels move, TV Guide, Hallmark, & MSNBC, they are ALL very low rated networks. The TV Guide channel isn't much of a guide any more, rather, it's their TV programming above that people go to. Hallmark is a bunch of reruns, and MSNBC.. well, I'm surprised that network is still solvent.

Get used to channels moving.. the rep is right. You will, in the near future (couple years) see all tier 2 channels moved. Eventually, too, tier 1 will go as well.

When the FCC decided to disallow operators to make money on each hook up of standard TV, they also no longer were required to supply boxes for each TV - this holds true today.

Your subscription gets you ONE outlet of TV.. When you hook up additional, you are paying them to perform labor in your home that is yours, not theirs. You are getting the additional channels. Your beef, technically, can only be made on outlet 1 of service. And, if and when they do make a massive move, I'm sure you will see the free box offer for a few months time. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694354 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 22:18:14 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694242 Sparhawk6 :
said by ComcastORSW :

Any digital package includes 1 standard-def Digital receiver in the price of the package.

Funny. When I asked for an HD receiver (which I pay monthly for), they took away my SD receiver. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20694242 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 21:58:34 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20693196 anon : I just want to clear up some confusion regarding the charges for boxes vs. A/Os. I am a Comcast rep for the Oregon/SW Washington Market, so I cannot speak for the rest of the country, but our billing is as follows:

Any digital package includes 1 standard-def Digital receiver in the price of the package.

If, for example, you were to add a 2nd box, the price would be $6.99 per month, however that price is not for the box, it is for the Digital A/O, and 1 standard-def receiver is included in that price.

This becomes more apparent if you were to have a piece of advanced equipment on your 2nd outlet, such as an HD Receiver or DVR. In that situation, you must pay the $6.99 for the 2nd outlet AND the rental charge for the equipment, which is $6.50 for the HD Receiver or $13.95 for the HD-DVR.

There are price breaks as you move to more outlets, but Comcast, at least in this market, does charge monthly for multiple digital outlets.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20693196 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 18:30:52 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20689806 bicker :
said by Rob See Profile :

Untrue.
Clearly you disagree. I happen to know I'm correct and that you're not. A/O pertains to the service.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20689806 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 05:26:02 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20689236 mhornet :
said by Chad473 See Profile :

said by CRP See Profile :

Good riddance to analog cable.
amen.
Here, Here! Get rid of all the analog's so I can get more HD.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20689236 Tue, 24 Jun 2008 00:13:37 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20688504 mikedz4 : why dont you just call 1-800-comcast and ask the telephone receptionist??? Instead of having 3300 people say different things just ask the person who can give you the deal.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20688504 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 21:29:37 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20687681 OverRunMama : OK, I am almost lost here with this Box talk, it appears someone is saying the 1st box is FREE ---for who--only those who get the "digital cable" package ? So far, I am still only an "analog" Cable customer getting 70 channels , they are saying my 1st box is free for one year, and after that it is $4 a month per month. So it does not sound free? Does this mean IF I upgrade to the more expensive Digital package , that then and only then will my 1st "Set top Box" be free each month?? But if I stay with this lower plan-they can charge me for the 1st box at $4 a month??]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20687681 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 18:46:27 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684943 Greg2600 :
said by Rob See Profile :

said by Greg2600 See Profile :

I'm with this person. Although I would be willing to pay say 3.99 for a simple box for extra TV's, I am not willing to pay an "outlet" fee. Again, I think Comcast are alone in this pricing scheme compared to FIOS and Satellite.
Comcast really doesn't charge an "outlet" fee, they charge a rental fee. They call it "outlet" because they identify everything as an "outlet". You can have 1000 TVs hooked up in your home, to Comcast's analog service, and not pay any extra for each "outlet".

On the bills, they identify the boxes as "Digital A/O", but really it's the box itself.

And they aren't alone in this pricing scheme - every provider charges a rental fee per month.
Rob I wish that were true. I am getting charged 8.95 for each box/outlet, of which it lists the box at 3.70 and the remote at 0.25. Now that is a full digital (not HD) box. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684943 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:21:46 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684338 Rob :
said by bicker See Profile :

said by Rob See Profile :

On the bills, they identify the boxes as "Digital A/O", but really it's the box itself.
Untrue. I have "Digital A/O" on my bill and I don't rent a box from Comcast.

"Digital A/O" is for receiving digital service.
Untrue. You can't have a Digital A/O without a box. "A/O" is billed at $0.00, because Comcast does not charge an additional fee for analog service. "Digital A/O" is the rental fee of the box, because you already have "A/O" on all digital A/O, but on top of that you are paying for the cost of the box.

If you have a "Digital A/O" charge on your account, and you only have 1 Digital box (and it's not a HD/DVR, or any upgraded box), then you are being overbilled. The only time you will see a Digital A/O on your bill, is if either you are renting an additional box from Comcast, or you upgraded your primary box (to say a Dual DVR) and they split the cost (but that's Comcast's terrible billing system, really).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684338 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 07:18:27 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684329 Rob :
said by ak3883 See Profile :

said by Rob See Profile :

said by Greg2600 See Profile :

I'm with this person. Although I would be willing to pay say 3.99 for a simple box for extra TV's, I am not willing to pay an "outlet" fee. Again, I think Comcast are alone in this pricing scheme compared to FIOS and Satellite.
Comcast really doesn't charge an "outlet" fee, they charge a rental fee. They call it "outlet" because they identify everything as an "outlet". You can have 1000 TVs hooked up in your home, to Comcast's analog service, and not pay any extra for each "outlet".

On the bills, they identify the boxes as "Digital A/O", but really it's the box itself.

And they aren't alone in this pricing scheme - every provider charges a rental fee per month.
If this was the case, I would pay $1 or $2 for a CableCARD for my TV, in addition to my HD-DVR. But they would charge another $8ish for "add'tl digital outlet" and I'm not renting a box.

I'm sure there are people who can confirm this, but if you only have a DVR as your primary outlet and nothing else on your account, then if you got a CableCard it isn't gonna cost you just another dollar or two per month, right?
Yes, if you have the DVR on your primary outlet, then you are paying the cost of the DVR (in some areas, 9.99-13.95). If you ordered a CableCard for an additional outlet, you'd only be billed for the cost of the cablecard.

The additional outlet fee is the box itself. If you are being billed $8 dollars for it, then that's the difference of the cost for the HD-DVR.

The first CableCard, in most areas, is free (as is the primary box on the first outlet).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684329 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 07:13:46 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684277 bicker :
said by Rob See Profile :

On the bills, they identify the boxes as "Digital A/O", but really it's the box itself.
Untrue. I have "Digital A/O" on my bill and I don't rent a box from Comcast.

"Digital A/O" is for receiving digital service.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20684277 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 06:31:33 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20683689 ak3883 :
said by Rob See Profile :

said by Greg2600 See Profile :

I'm with this person. Although I would be willing to pay say 3.99 for a simple box for extra TV's, I am not willing to pay an "outlet" fee. Again, I think Comcast are alone in this pricing scheme compared to FIOS and Satellite.
Comcast really doesn't charge an "outlet" fee, they charge a rental fee. They call it "outlet" because they identify everything as an "outlet". You can have 1000 TVs hooked up in your home, to Comcast's analog service, and not pay any extra for each "outlet".

On the bills, they identify the boxes as "Digital A/O", but really it's the box itself.

And they aren't alone in this pricing scheme - every provider charges a rental fee per month.
If this was the case, I would pay $1 or $2 for a CableCARD for my TV, in addition to my HD-DVR. But they would charge another $8ish for "add'tl digital outlet" and I'm not renting a box.

I'm sure there are people who can confirm this, but if you only have a DVR as your primary outlet and nothing else on your account, then if you got a CableCard it isn't gonna cost you just another dollar or two per month, right?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20683689 Mon, 23 Jun 2008 00:19:50 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20682887 caddyroger :
said by Greg2600 See Profile :

I'm with this person. Although I would be willing to pay say 3.99 for a simple box for extra TV's, I am not willing to pay an "outlet" fee. Again, I think Comcast are alone in this pricing scheme compared to FIOS and Satellite.
This is my set up with comcast.

Bedroom no 1 1 hd box $5.10 out fee+ $4.95 hd box fee.
living room 1 TiVo with 2 cable cards $0.00 outlet fee $0.00 cable card fee. Tv 1 cable card $0.00 fee.
bedroom 2 1 tv no outlet fee.
The lady in billing told me there no charge for the outlet only for the the box.
--
Caddy]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20682887 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 21:09:10 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20682763 Rob :
said by Greg2600 See Profile :

I'm with this person. Although I would be willing to pay say 3.99 for a simple box for extra TV's, I am not willing to pay an "outlet" fee. Again, I think Comcast are alone in this pricing scheme compared to FIOS and Satellite.
Comcast really doesn't charge an "outlet" fee, they charge a rental fee. They call it "outlet" because they identify everything as an "outlet". You can have 1000 TVs hooked up in your home, to Comcast's analog service, and not pay any extra for each "outlet".

On the bills, they identify the boxes as "Digital A/O", but really it's the box itself.

And they aren't alone in this pricing scheme - every provider charges a rental fee per month.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20682763 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 20:41:19 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20682694 Greg2600 : I'm with this person. Although I would be willing to pay say 3.99 for a simple box for extra TV's, I am not willing to pay an "outlet" fee. Again, I think Comcast are alone in this pricing scheme compared to FIOS and Satellite.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20682694 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 20:22:37 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20681301 bicker :
said by OverRunMama See Profile :

... I just feel Comcast's commercials on TV, and advertising is very misleading ...
I think sometimes there is a some confusion about the purpose of advertising. Advertising is a form of communication that typically attempts to persuade potential customers to purchase or to consume more of a particular brand of product or service. Advertising does not typically present a litany of the negative aspects of the product or service, since that tends not to persuade potential customers to purchase or to consume more of a particular brand of product or service. This isn't "misleading" per se; it is the essential nature of advertising itself. If you don't project any of your own misunderstanding into the advertisements, and take the advertisements at face value, considering only what they actually say, you'll see that the factual information is accurate, and you'll see that the qualitative information is a reasonable perspective, even if not one's own perspective.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20681301 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 14:17:29 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680478 OverRunMama : Thank you for your replies, especially Ajwees41 who accually adressed one of my questions. I could have done just fine without the Horse & buggy analogy. I understand this is Progress, I just feel Comcast's commercials on TV, and advertising is very misleading, claiming everything is covered, no need to do anything, cause this is simply not true. Boxes ARE required and prices will substantianly go up for those who do not have Digital, this SHOULD be mentioned by Comcast instead of "no need to do anything", as those commercials are specifically addressinng customers like Myself, more so than those who already have Digital service. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680478 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 10:40:33 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680372 neil0311 :
said by Rob See Profile :

It's a lose/lose battle for Comcast. They lose because customers get upset that they have to get a set top box, and they also lose if Comcast doesn't move everything to digital, where they can offer more features, with a much more clear picture.
I'm at the point where I take the somewhat selfish but I think pragmatic view. People who have analog TVs have several choices for continuing to use their old TV, including a reduced amount of analog channels, or some type of D/A converter or STB. As far as Comcast goes, these people have no other alternative that would provide them with analog signal and no box. Comcast should be gearing their service and capital budget for those of us who make up the future and not those who cling to the past.

This whole thing is much like people who owned older cars in the early 80s and wanted to continue using leaded regular gas when it was phased out and no longer sold.

All throughout the recent past, technology has progressed and sometimes the way you used to do something changes. You can get on board and embrace the change and the improvement, or you can sit around and lament the change. Either way...the change is coming whether or not you approve.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680372 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 10:02:46 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680167 Rob :
said by bicker See Profile :

Indeed, and their best approach is to balance the conflicting consumer bases so as to maximize long-term shareholder value. That will likely mean the best thing Comcast can do will piss off a number of extremists on both sides of the issue. That's actually extremely common in business. There often is simply not way to please everyone, and companies that foolishly ignore the reality in their attempts to do so often end up damaging themselves.
"You can please some people some time,and others other times, but you can never please everyone all the time"]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680167 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:35:03 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680142 bicker : Indeed, and their best approach is to balance the conflicting consumer bases so as to maximize long-term shareholder value. That will likely mean the best thing Comcast can do will piss off a number of extremists on both sides of the issue. That's actually extremely common in business. There often is simply not way to please everyone, and companies that foolishly ignore the reality in their attempts to do so often end up damaging themselves.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680142 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:23:16 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680119 Rob :
said by bicker See Profile :

The best way of communicating your dissatisfaction with this change is to cancel your subscription. If you just grumble about it, but still pay them every month for what they're offering than you're clearly communicating that their offering and its pricing is acceptable to you. You're essentially voting for what you claim to be unhappy about.
It's a lose/lose battle for Comcast. They lose because customers get upset that they have to get a set top box, and they also lose if Comcast doesn't move everything to digital, where they can offer more features, with a much more clear picture.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680119 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 08:07:57 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680003 bicker : The best way of communicating your dissatisfaction with this change is to cancel your subscription. If you just grumble about it, but still pay them every month for what they're offering than you're clearly communicating that their offering and its pricing is acceptable to you. You're essentially voting for what you claim to be unhappy about.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20680003 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 06:27:25 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679935 ajwees41 : Why couldn't they have put these particular channels between 70- 100 so we would not need this Box, are you telling me COMCAST has no choice in this matter?? Is all Cable companies across the US making MSNBC that high on the channel list and Hallmart channel?


you do know that digital uses the empty channel space between 70-100 don't you? Comcast would have to drop a few digital if they did that and lower internet speeds.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679935 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 04:43:01 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679401 caddyroger : Sounds you just need got ota. all you have to is go buy 4 analog to digital converter boxes
--
Caddy]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679401 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 00:13:10 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679394 Chad473 :
said by CRP See Profile :

Good riddance to analog cable.
amen. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679394 Sun, 22 Jun 2008 00:08:42 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679273 Greg_Z : You do know, that no one is holding a gun to your head, or twisting your arm, other then yourself. People all of the time get by without Internet, Phone, or TV, you should try it sometime.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20679273 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 23:30:39 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678410 anon : Analog cable is like a horse and buggy; digital is like a solar-powered car.

Now if you wanna clomp down a dusty road with a horse farting in your face, be my guest. However, I think the rest of us will go with the solar-powered climate-controlled car.

Understand now? :D]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678410 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 19:23:56 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678288 Rob :
said by OverRunMama See Profile :

I do not have a problem with them going digital at all, I LOVE how clear it is, I understand them freeing up Bandwith---all a GOOODDD thing....I also plan to buy a couple HDTV tv's after Feb 2009, I figure prices will go down. I just dont' want to pay for 4 boxes for 4 TV's each month to get 5 extra channels that I didnt' need before this change , and it is my opionion they should not be charging more money when they could have put those channels in the 70-100 stations so a box is simply not needed for people like me. This is also a great strain on Wasted Electric to run all these boxes. This IS my issue here--the great Price increase for what -for nothing! How many channels do these newer HDTV TV's get anyway--I look in the store, it says nothing about this, will I need a Box if they have 300 channels in them, and then I am confused about a "Cable card", is this something Comcast will be charging me for also- per TV , per month? OK, Advice, time, I do NOT need as many channels as they want to give in their smallest package, what is the CHEAPEST way to get the smallest package anywhere and have 4 TV's in use at one household?? I would like more than 10 stations, 70 was great. I do not need 200 channels. I would rather save the $$. I have been searching, but it is all very confusing to me. All of you probably know ALOT more than me. And have alot of advice to share. I also live in a Valley, the Dish sounds decent, but not sure about Reception "in a Hole", plus I have heard when it rains, these things loose their signal and there goes your TV. ???
It doesn't matter how many channels the TV itself supports. When you have a cable box, your TV is tuned to channel 3 (or tuned to a different output, like HDMI) and the box itself controls the channels.

A Cable card allows the user to use their own set top box (such as a Tivo) and still receive digital service through Comcast. Rather than renting the entire box, customers can use their own box and just rent the cable card from Comcast. The problem is that there are very limited number of set top boxes that a customer, at this point in time, can purchase.

You can still subscribe to analog service, but as you have found, channels will start to move to digital. Customers who subscribe to digital service also gets analog service.

So at this point, what you can do is upgrade to digital (the first box is included) and use the box on 1 TV to get the digital channels, and keep your other TVs connected to analog. Then if a channel you watch is moved to digital, you can access it on the digital tv (if you subscribe to the level package that the channel is availabl on).]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678288 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 18:45:05 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678221 OverRunMama : I do not have a problem with them going digital at all, I LOVE how clear it is, I understand them freeing up Bandwith---all a GOOODDD thing....I also plan to buy a couple HDTV tv's after Feb 2009, I figure prices will go down. I just dont' want to pay for 4 boxes for 4 TV's each month to get 5 extra channels that I didnt' need before this change , and it is my opionion they should not be charging more money when they could have put those channels in the 70-100 stations so a box is simply not needed for people like me. This is also a great strain on Wasted Electric to run all these boxes. This IS my issue here--the great Price increase for what -for nothing! How many channels do these newer HDTV TV's get anyway--I look in the store, it says nothing about this, will I need a Box if they have 300 channels in them, and then I am confused about a "Cable card", is this something Comcast will be charging me for also- per TV , per month? OK, Advice, time, I do NOT need as many channels as they want to give in their smallest package, what is the CHEAPEST way to get the smallest package anywhere and have 4 TV's in use at one household?? I would like more than 10 stations, 70 was great. I do not need 200 channels. I would rather save the $$. I have been searching, but it is all very confusing to me. All of you probably know ALOT more than me. And have alot of advice to share. I also live in a Valley, the Dish sounds decent, but not sure about Reception "in a Hole", plus I have heard when it rains, these things loose their signal and there goes your TV. ???]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678221 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 18:18:27 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678174 CRP : Good riddance to analog cable. It's not the 90s anymore.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678174 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 17:56:24 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678159 anon : I know the DTV transition is about local channels. However, when someone sees that commercials they think everything is fine for them without that STB. But when the next bill comes and there's a notice that some of their favorite channels are being moved and they will no need a box and an upgrade to a digital tier, people will be ticked off. Rightfully so.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678159 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 17:50:51 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678034 neil0311 :
said by OverRunMama See Profile :

I have Comcast ANOLOG cable (approx 70 channels for $55 a month), I have all anolog TV's , and I know in Feb 2009, Comcast boasts that for people like myself, nothing needs to be done (make is simple)--- well Comcast LIES. Because they are taking appox 8 channels I normally get without a Stupid Box & putting them in the channel 200's (this includes TV guide network, Hallmark channel & MSNBC-which I do watch). Sure,they give you a box free for one year, after that it costs $4 a month I think --per TV. I am NOT happy about this at all. Those channels us Anolog subscribes get should have not been put into the 200's so we need a Box. A Representative said MORE channels will change in the future also--I guess they are backing us all in the corner so we MUST get the Higher priced Digital cable (DO you have to pay for each box--per TV in addition to the Higher priced Digital cable also). They say I can buy one of these at Best Buy, etc, but will I still need some kind of card from Comcast?? This is so confusing. I do not want to pay a dime more for cable, I feel my rates should be lowered for taking these channels & requiring a box! And when one gets one of these boxes, how does this work if you want to record something with a VCR or DVD player that only goes up to 130 channels? Then I will have 3 controllers, this is crazy. Your thoughts please
OK...You asked for my thoughts...here they are.

Analog TV is a dead technology. As people replace aging analog TVs, their only choice will be to buy digital. For years, the cable companies have supplied analog channels and have used more than half their bandwidth to do so.

As we now move to an era where the scale is tipping and more people will soon have digital TVs, it begins to become less feasible to continue to supply 60 - 80 analog channels to the diminishing number of people who still hold onto their old analog TVs and resist a STB.

Sure Comcast will still provide the OTA channels and some others in their basic analog service, but they also need to pay attention to a growing segment of subscribers who provide a higher return to their business...people with HDTVs. To do this, they have to start reclaiming bandwidth from analog simulcasts and start using them for the 2 or 3 HD channels that can be sent down that same pipe. Competitive challenges from DirecTV, FIOS, and U-Verse make it a priority.

Sorry to say it, but as we move forward, people with analog TVs that connect directly to an analog signal will be a smaller and smaller percentage of subscribers. It's time to catch up with the times and realize that the future is HDTV and digital signal. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20678034 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 17:14:09 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677943 MadMANN :
said by OverRunMama See Profile :

All I am saying is this... I am used to paying $55 for 70 channels, and this is definetley not going to be possible at this price range because of what Comcast is doing here. For me to continue to get 70 channels, the cost after these boxes will be another $8 or more, is it OK for me to complain this is not fair--none of THIS kind of changes HAS BEEN TALKED ABOUT ANYWHERE , that regualr analog customers would INDEED NEED BOXES TO CONTINUE TO GET 4-8 channels they already had! If this has been talked about everywhere, PLEASE PROVIDE ME WITH THE LINKS.
Why should anyone provide you with links when you can GOOGLE it so easily? The fact is, is you brought the DTV transition into a discussion about a completely different subject. You are talking about a decision that Comcast has made in order to free bandwidth for higher technology.

Does that leave a few people that could care less in the cold? No. You have options that may or may not include Comcast. There's Comcast service bundling, there's free OTA TV, there's the internet, there is satellite, etc. In most markets, you can save money on all three services and get more TV for your money in the process. If that doesn't fit your needs, then pursue any of the other options you have. No matter what option you choose, you are going digital.

By the way, Comcast is not the only cable company doing this. The best thing for any consumer to do in this situation is to figure out their budget vs their wants and pick what fits. Most people are upset about this only because they have to make a change. As valid as it is, it is life. If you rely on technology as part of your life, then you have to remember that it does change and you will have to change with it if you want to continue to use it.

I have a 2001 vehicle that is my family's primary transportation. They are putting ethanol in most gasoline now, which means my vehicle is getting worse gas mileage than newer models. I can either complain about it or understand that it is progress and consider this when I make my next purchase.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677943 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:43:06 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677868 MadMANN :
said by BrutusBeefcake :

A lot of people are still confused about the 2/2009 transition. Comcast doesn't help the situation by saying don't worry, Comcast has you covered. They don't mention their own digital transition, which will cost Comcast customers more money for just a few channels they want to watch.
Did you read my post? Again, the DTV transition is about LOCAL BROADCAST CHANNELS. Comcast specifically points to this in their commercials. This has NOTHING to do with a cable system that is phasing out CABLE CHANNELS in analog to make room for better technology.

People are confused about the transition because they choose to be. All they have to do is listen and comprehend. Again, dozens of resources, yet people do not use them and blame others for their laziness or lack of comprehension.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677868 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:17:30 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677817 pplchamp1 : »www.comcastdigitalworld.com/index.php
»www.google.com/search?q=comcast+···rtPage=1

--
I ain't got time to bleed!]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677817 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 16:02:09 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677691 anon : A lot of people are still confused about the 2/2009 transition. Comcast doesn't help the situation by saying don't worry, Comcast has you covered. They don't mention their own digital transition, which will cost Comcast customers more money for just a few channels they want to watch.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677691 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 15:20:38 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677363 OverRunMama : All I am saying is this... I am used to paying $55 for 70 channels, and this is definetley not going to be possible at this price range because of what Comcast is doing here. For me to continue to get 70 channels, the cost after these boxes will be another $8 or more, is it OK for me to complain this is not fair--none of THIS kind of changes HAS BEEN TALKED ABOUT ANYWHERE , that regualr analog customers would INDEED NEED BOXES TO CONTINUE TO GET 4-8 channels they already had! If this has been talked about everywhere, PLEASE PROVIDE ME WITH THE LINKS. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677363 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 13:38:05 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677144 MadMANN :
said by OverRunMama See Profile :

I have Comcast ANOLOG cable (approx 70 channels for $55 a month), I have all anolog TV's , and I know in Feb 2009, Comcast boasts that for people like myself, nothing needs to be done (make is simple)--- well Comcast LIES. Because they are taking appox 8 channels I normally get without a Stupid Box & putting them in the channel 200's (this includes TV guide network, Hallmark channel & MSNBC-which I do watch).
Not one of those channels you mentioned are broadcast channels. Comcast makes it clear that your broadcast (aka local) channels will remain in analog format with them. How are they lying?

Never did Comcast or any other cable company ever claim that you will always have all of those cable networks in analog. The Feb 2009 deadline has always been about local channels and nothing more. Many pay no attention or hear only what they want to hear, even though there are dozens of resources, and then blame everyone else that they were misinformed.]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677144 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 12:26:54 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677067 DaveNJ :
said by Rob See Profile :

Really, the 2/2009 transition has nothing to do with Comcast. Comcast is moving services from analog to digital to free up space plus it's cheaper for them.

It's nothing really new, Comcast has been moving analog channels over to digital for some time now. Anyone remember HBO on analog? Now you need digital to get HBO.

Comcast has no control over the stb. They are required for digital service, and they cost Comcast money, so they lease them.
Isnt going to be possible soon, they someone could buy an digital STB from a store ? so it then just a matter of activation. Wasnt there an analog dongle would would convert the digital signal to analog for each set ?
--
“Say no to fear. Don’t let anxiety crush your life. Live life free and unfettered.”



]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20677067 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 12:04:09 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20676968 OverRunMama : I do understand what you are saying, but I do not feel someone like myself, after a year of 1 free set top box, should have to pay $4 a month for this box to get (3) channels I used to get without a box. Would you agree, and if I chose to get another box, it would cost me $8 extra a month for those same 3 channels on another TV. I feel
they should give us the option of a DISCOUNT if we do not want this Box and because of this change, we ARE loosing channels we used to have. Why couldn't they have put these particular channels between 70- 100 so we would not need this Box, are you telling me COMCAST has no choice in this matter?? Is all Cable companies across the US making MSNBC that high on the channel list and Hallmart channel?]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20676968 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 11:41:35 EDT Re: Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20676802 Rob : Really, the 2/2009 transition has nothing to do with Comcast. Comcast is moving services from analog to digital to free up space plus it's cheaper for them.

It's nothing really new, Comcast has been moving analog channels over to digital for some time now. Anyone remember HBO on analog? Now you need digital to get HBO.

Comcast has no control over the stb. They are required for digital service, and they cost Comcast money, so they lease them. ]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20676802 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 10:53:44 EDT Notice from Comcast-Will NEED Box 7-17 to get some channels? http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20676718 OverRunMama : I have Comcast ANOLOG cable (approx 70 channels for $55 a month), I have all anolog TV's , and I know in Feb 2009, Comcast boasts that for people like myself, nothing needs to be done (make is simple)--- well Comcast LIES. Because they are taking appox 8 channels I normally get without a Stupid Box & putting them in the channel 200's (this includes TV guide network, Hallmark channel & MSNBC-which I do watch). Sure,they give you a box free for one year, after that it costs $4 a month I think --per TV. I am NOT happy about this at all. Those channels us Anolog subscribes get should have not been put into the 200's so we need a Box. A Representative said MORE channels will change in the future also--I guess they are backing us all in the corner so we MUST get the Higher priced Digital cable (DO you have to pay for each box--per TV in addition to the Higher priced Digital cable also). They say I can buy one of these at Best Buy, etc, but will I still need some kind of card from Comcast?? This is so confusing. I do not want to pay a dime more for cable, I feel my rates should be lowered for taking these channels & requiring a box! And when one gets one of these boxes, how does this work if you want to record something with a VCR or DVD player that only goes up to 130 channels? Then I will have 3 controllers, this is crazy. Your thoughts please]]> http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20676718 Sat, 21 Jun 2008 10:23:05 EDT