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@sholm wrote:
I have read many forums both here and around the internet about being able to watch local HD channels in the clear using a QAM capable TV on cable companies networks as well as Verizon. But there seems to be alot of debate about if those local channels will remain free. I know cable companies and Verizon are required by the FCC to make available local channels in the clear. But does that mean they just have to provide you with basic analog local channels like you would get without a STB for channels 0-49 or does that mean the HD channels that most of us get now? I have the STB on my main TV but on my other 3 TV's in the house, all with QAM tuners, I can receive all the local channels in HD which is just fine with me. I don't want to have to lease HD boxes for those 3 TV's just so I can continue to watch my local channels in HD. So does anyone know for certain if these local HD channels will stay unencrypted?
Most interpret FCC rules to require that HD locals, if offered, be made available unencrypted.
Expect HD locals to remain in the clear -- on all providers -- for the forseeable future.
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Ok, but wouldn't it be better for the cable companies to encrypt those and make everyone subscribe to their more expensive packages or have to use a STB's on all their TV's. I have read the FCC ruling but it really only says that they have to provide their basic tier services. But it doesn't really say that those can't be encrypted and you have to use on of their STB's does it?
Thanks.
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""Most interpret FCC rules to require that HD locals, if offered, be made available unencrypted.
Expect HD locals to remain in the clear -- on all providers -- for the forseeable future.""
Sure it may be better for the companies to try and charge you for something that is free over the air, but I don't think Verizon or anyone else is gonna attempt to upset the FCC. I guess it depends on what you consider "better". I don't think it's better for a company to upset it's customers or potential customers by charging more for a free service one can get with an antenna.