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The FCC changes the CableCARD rules, but not dramatically
The long awaited rule changes pertaining to CableCARDs that was originally proposed in the FCC's Broadband Plan finally got some resolve today, we have to say we're not convinced things will get that much better. While the FCC failed to kill Tuning Adapters or make the CableLabs certification process any less painful, it did make some changes, which include: CableCARD fees have to be the same for everyone, no matter which package you have. If your cable company allows any self installs, they must allow CableCARD self-installs. Cable companies must support SDV for CableCARD users -- this was implied before, now it is black and white. By default, all new deployments must be M-Cards (unless you actually request a S-Card). Cable companies can include an IP interface in set-top-boxes lieu of a 1394 port. One way HD boxes without CableCARDs are no longer forbidden and they don't require IP interfaces. Obviously nothing is as simple as six bullet points and there's much more detail in the 59 page order, so click on through for our interpretation of the nitty-gritty or hit up the PDF source and go nuts.
FCC fines TWC and Cox for deploying Switched Digital Video
If you've been feeling left out because your cable provider decided to start using Switched Digital Video (SDV) to deliver your favorite channels, don't worry because the FCC has your back. Today the FCC's Enforcement Bureau proposed to fine TWC and Cox's Fairfax County system because they "apparently willfully violated" the requirement to support third party CableCARD devices. Time Warner got slapped with a fine of 40 large, with Cox only getting half that at $20,000 -- this is in addition to the refunds both will be required to issue to affected customers. This is definitely a score for the little guy, and we sure are glad the FCC stepped up on this one, but luckily for all the parties involved, the Tuning Adapter will solve this problem long term. Now if only more providers would start making them available. [Disclosure: Engadget is part of the Time Warner family]
