Earlier this month, I posted about the FCC decision that required cable operators to distrubute CableCards, a technology that allows digital cable subscribers to receive cable without a cable set-top box. The device will be available for the majority of U.S. cable customers by July, 2007, according to the ruling.
Chris Kohler over at Wired News posted a good article this week that gives an overview of the CableCard technology and what it means for you. He answers some of the most common questions so you can decide if it's right for your home:
What advantages does using a CableCard offer me?
There's no giant, ugly box with associated wires taking up space in your entertainment center. Also, the costs to lease a tiny, inexpensive CableCard from your cable provider should be significantly less expensive than leasing the box -- usually around two bucks. They can also send it to you in the mail rather than having to arrange an installation appointment. Finally, electronics manufacturers can sell devices capable of tuning in to your full cable lineup directly, without kluges likes TiVo's IR blaster.
What are the disadvantages?
CableCard is a one-way system, so you won't get an interactive program guide—you'll just have to use the static, non-interactive onscreen listing. You also can't order pay-per-view or on-demand programming.
Check out the rest of article CableCard Swipes at Set-Top Boxes to learn more.
