About CableCARDS
Updated
4/2/2013 3:32:08 PM
by
Comcast Expert
Email
Email sent
Your link to 'About CableCARDS' has been sent!
Introduction
CableCARD ready devices can be purchased at retail stores, but the CableCARD, which is necessary to activate the video service, is provided by Comcast.
What is a CableCARD?
A CableCARD is a unidirectional device about the size of a credit card that can be used with a CableCARD compatible retail device (e.g., TiVo devices or CableCARD ready televisions). This offers you the choice of purchasing a compatible CableCARD device from a retailer to access Comcast’s video services, instead of leasing a Comcast digital converter or digital adapter. If you choose to use a CableCARD device instead of using a Comcast digital converter or digital adapter, you will only be able to receive one way digital cable channels and will not be able to receive OnDemand, pay-per-view and the interactive programming guide.
Why is Comcast offering CableCARDs?
Comcast is committed to supporting CableCARD retail devices, such as the TiVo devices or CableCARD ready televisions. By supporting CableCARDs, Comcast is able to provide you with more choice. If you do choose to use a CableCARD device instead of using a Comcast digital converter or digital adapter, you will only be able to receive one way digital cable channels and will not be able to receive ON DEMAND, pay-per-view and the interactive programming guide.
If I have a CableCARD, do I still need my digital set-top box to get Digital Cable?
You may choose to use a CableCARD device instead of a Comcast digital converter or digital adapter to access Comcast’s video services. If you choose to use a CableCARD device instead of using a Comcast digital converter or digital adapter, you will only be able to receive one way digital cable channels and will not be able to receive OnDemand, pay-per-view and the interactive programming guide.
Can I purchase a CableCARD, and if so, where?
CableCARD ready devices can be purchased at retail stores, but the CableCARD, which is necessary to activate the video service, is provided by Comcast. The CableCARD can be provided as part of a professional installation or self-installation. Chat with us to schedule an appointment.
Will I get all of the features and services with a CableCARD that I currently enjoy with my Digital Cable service?
If you prefer to use a CableCARD compatible retail device instead of a digital converter from Comcast, you will only be able to receive one way Digital Cable channels and will not be able to receive ON DEMAND, pay-per-view and the interactive programming guide.
Does CableCARD offer parental controls?
The CableCARD does not have parental control functionality – although Comcast does pass V-Chip data to the CableCARD device. V-chip is a generic term for technology used in television set receivers which allows the blocking of programs based on their ratings category. It is intended for use by parents to manage their children's television viewing. Televisions manufactured for the United States since 1999 and all units as of January 2000 are required to have the V-chip technology. Please check the owner’s manual or manufacturer for your CableCARD device to learn about what parental control functionality may be available.
If I use a CableCARD will picture in picture work if I have a digital-cable-ready television that has picture in picture functionality built in?
Yes, picture in picture should work with a CableCARD.
Why does my on-screen guide look different from the Digital Cable set-top box guide?
CableCARD compatible retail devices often use an on-screen guide specific to the manufacturer, which is different from the guide provided by Comcast. As a result, the program guide may not always match Comcast's On-Screen Program Guide. For more information on your on-screen guide functionality and features, please consult your owner's manual.
How much will I be charged to use a CableCARD?
The first CableCARD in a retail device (e.g., TiVo devices or CableCARD equipped televisions) is provided at no additional charge to Comcast customers. If a second CableCARD is needed for the same device (i.e., TiVo Series 3 boxes), the cost is $1.50 per month for the additional card. Again, this ONLY applies to a second CableCARD in the same device.
Note: If you subscribe to a video service level above Limited Basic and you have additional televisions connected to Comcast video service there will be an additional monthly service charge for your additional television outlets regardless of whether you lease equipment from Comcast or provide your own retail devices. If, however, you own a retail device, including a CableCARD device (e.g., TiVO or CableCARD equipped television) with an activated CableCARD installed and are subscribing to a Comcast video service that includes equipment as a part of the service, Comcast will issue you a monthly Customer Owned Equipment credit.
Customer Owned Equipment Policy
Will I receive an equipment credit if I bring my own CableCARD compatible retail device?
If you own a CableCARD device (e.g., TiVO or CableCARD equipped television) with an activated CableCARD installed and are subscribing to a Comcast video service that includes equipment as a part of the service, Comcast will begin issuing a monthly Customer Owned Equipment credit to your account.