[mythtv-users] FCC Broadcast Digital Channel Requirements

Chase Douglas chasedouglas.lists at gmail.com
Fri Aug 22 18:06:43 UTC 2008


Hello all,

It was my understanding that the FCC requires cable companies to  
transmit, unencrypted, all local broadcast channels over their cable  
network. For instance, I have the Time Warner Basic Cable package in  
Columbus, OH that gives me access to most of the analog channels.  
Although I have not ordered any digital package, I have also been able  
to receive the digital versions of the local ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, PBS,  
and The CW channels. I just realized today that I can no longer  
receive FOX or ABC. Interestingly, they both are subchannels of the  
same ATSC channel. I called up the Time Warner Cable support line, and  
I was told that because I do not have any digital package I should not  
be receiving any digital channels.

First, am I correct in my assumption that the FCC requires cable  
companies to transmit local broadcast channels in all circumstances,  
analog and digital? Second, if that's true, does anyone know of where  
I can find the FCC regulations stipulating this in case I have to  
lodge a formal complaint?

Thanks,
Chase Douglas


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