Extra Equipment, Extra Cost
This change not only affects what it’s crucial that you receive your cable TV programming but also adds extra costs to your monthly cable bill.
The Backstory
Although the FCC required most TV stations toconvert from analog to digitalbroadcasting on June 12, 2009,cable providers were not included in this deadline.
However, since about 2012, cable services have implemented their own schedule to eliminate analog and non-scrambled cable services.
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As a result, if you have an older “cable-ready” TV, that feature may no longer be usable.
Since almost all content is now copy-protected and scrambled, to receive even basic cable signals from a service, you need an external box from a cable company.
Analog TV tuners have not been compatible with over-the-air TV broadcast signals since 2009, and although they are still compatible with analog cable signals, if the cable service no longer offers this option, an external box is required.
Alternatives to the Cable Box
If you have increased monthly cable expense due to box rental or any increases in monthly service fees, it’s possible for you to lessen your expense.
The Bottom Line
As cable service providers continue to convert to all-digital and scrambled service, customers who own older analog, and even newer HD and 4K Ultra TVs, will have to have a box to access basic cable channels.
You may receive a letter or other notification from your cable company that you will need a cable box for each TV in your home to continue to receive cable service.
If the added inconvenience of the cable box or DVR expense is bothersome, consider “cutting the cord” by accessing via over-the-air and/or internet streaming options.
