NNSquad - Network Neutrality Squad
[ NNSquad ] Re: Comcast removes key VCR-compatibility feature from cable boxes (or pay $20 extra!)
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We accept the charge for each STB and would've accepted the
charge for each PC too except that the NAT prevented the CableCos from seeing
each PC. How long will we be paying for each STB rather than paying by measures
such as concurrent streams (3 for HBOGo, for example)? Rationality? Because they can? Isn’t that a sufficient
reason? I’ve started to experiment with putting a MOCA
(Ethernet over Coax) adapter by the TV (though I could use 802.11 or Ethernet
too) so I can put a small PC next to the TV with hopes of replacing the STBs
with small PCs without putting in additional wiring. How soon before the rest follow
HBO’s lead and become available over IP mooting the idea of being tied to
the television grid? A PC is many times the power of the STB and you own it.
Current price is for the Atom-based PC $200 but that is likely to continue to
go down. And then we can experiment with new ideas and possibilities. Remember that Comcast/NBCU would reach a larger audience and
save money by removing its dependence upon having to have a cable in order to
reach subscribers. Stay tuned … -----Original Message----- Comcast removes key VCR-compatibility feature from cable
boxes (or pay $20 extra!) http://bit.ly/avDSWQ (Slashdot) This story is a bit confusing, and I'd appreciate any
in-the-know Comcast subs clarifying it. Reportedly, the previous version of Comcast STB software
allowed flexible scheduling of channel changes for VCR recordings
(yes, there are still *lots* of people who use VCRs!) But this subscriber says that the capability of
scheduling changes "more than a few hours in advance" has been
removed unless the sub orders DVR service (at $20/mo?) -- in which case they're
far less likely to be using VCRs also. I've seen rate cards showing Comcast charging $20/mo for
each additional DVR STB (which seems too high on its face),
but do they charge $20/mo for an initial DVR as well? And what possible rationale would there be for removing a
flexible channel-changing feature, other than to try push people
who didn't really want a DVR into paying a higher monthly fee
including DVR service? --Lauren-- NNSquad Moderator |