MULTIPLE TV HOUSHOLDS and the CABLECARD

Cablecard; a possible solution to the multiple TV household.

A Cablecard is A digital cable TV authorization and decoding system that uses a Type II PC Card module. Introduced in 2003 and mandated for HDTV sets by the FCC, it is plugged into "Digital Cable Ready" TV sets.

Replacing the set-top box, the CableCARD contains the subscriber's identity and decryption algorithms used by the cable provider. DVRs and digital media servers may include CableCARD slots, and CableCARDs can also plug into a PC for viewing.

The Single Stream CableCARD (S-CARD) supports one data stream in one direction. Multi-Stream CableCARD (M-CARD) enables bi-directional transmission for video-on-demand and for recording one channel, while viewing another.

REF: http://www.pcmag.com/encyclopedia_term/0,2542,t=CableCARD&i=56369,00.asp

There is no charge for the first CableCARD that you use as it is already included in the primary outlet fee. If you have a multi-card device on the same outlet (i.e. TiVo Series 3 or two Digital Cable Tuners connected to the same personal computer), you will be charged an additional regulated fee of up to $2.05 for the second CableCARD.

If additional CableCARDs are needed for other devices that are installed on additional outlets, you will not be charged for the first CableCARD installed on this outlet as the cost is included in the additional outlet fee.

In addition to the cost of the digital cable service, you will be charged a regulated fee of up to $2.05 for the second CableCARD on the additional outlet in addition to the cost of the digital cable service.

Note: The same pricing schedule will be applicable to additional outlets with multi-CableCARD devices, e.g. no charge for first CableCARD on the third outlet and an additional regulated fee of up to $2.05 for the second CableCARD in addition to the digital service charge.

REF: http://www.comcast.com/customers/faq/FaqDetails.ashx?Id=2651

Clearly this is an option to be discussed at the Thursday meeting.
Perhaps we can negotiate the nominal charge away.

Dave Israel