Sony KD-34XS955 FAQs: Digital Cable Ready Reference - Page 4

What is a CableCARD™? The term CableCARD™ is a term that has been adopted by the cable industry for the security device, which is the interface module between the cable head end and the customer's DCR product. This device is used to decrypt encrypted digital programming that the customer is authorized to receive. The term CableCARD™ is used with the permission of CableLabs. The CableCARD™ replaces the set-top box and enables consumers to view encrypted digital programming. It electronically binds with the DCR product to decrypt digital programming via a method that is also secure for copy protection purposes. What can a DCR product receive? A DCR product equipped with a CableCARD™ can receive unscrambled analog cable, digital basic cable, and digital premium cable services without a set top box (STB). It cannot support two-way interactivity and does not provide access to cable operator interactive program guides, Video on Demand services, pay-per-view movies or special events, or interactive TV (iTV) services. The cable and consumer electronics industries are currently working together to create a technical framework which will provide a foundation for DCR products that support the full suite of cable operators' products and services. Services/Features Available via Unscrambled analog channels Digital basic channels Digital premium programming Pay Per View Video on Demand Interactive Program Guide (cable generated**) Two-way interactive products and services Both DCR and 2-way STB Both DCR and 2-way STB Both DCR and 2-way STB 2-way STB only 2-way STB only 2-way STB only 2-way STB only 4