[mythtv-users] Analog to digital transition

[Gary Buhrmaster]

On Sun, May 1, 2011 at 19:33, Ronald Frazier <ron at ronfrazier.net> wrote:
...
> If I'm reading correctly, it sound like you are wanting to switch to
> capturing unencrypted digital signals with a QAM tuner. Are you
> positive you will be able to do that? Although it hasn't happened in
> all markets yet, in a lot of places, Comcast has encrypted the digital
> signal, making digital tuners useless.

Comcast is not Comcast is not Comcast.  Each franchise is different.
However, in many markets, clear QAM is available for the "basic"
tier channels (often 2-30ish) and rebroadcast local channels (including
the local HD channels).  The "extended basic" (often 30ish to 90ish)
are not available in the digital clear, nor are the premium channels.
In addition, it seems common to have a number of the shopping
channels in the clear, along with (local) government and franchise
specific channels (such as community access channels).

> So before planning on making that switch, I'd confirm that you do
> indeed have an unencrypted feed by hooking the coax line up to
> a TV with a digital tuner, scanning the digital channels, and seeing
> what comes up

One of the easiest ways I have found to determine what you are
likely going to get via clear QAM is to leverage the Silicon Dust
(uploaded from customers) homerun information that is available at:
http://www.silicondust.com/support/channels/
Enter your zip code, and navigate to your local provider.
For some zip codes, there are multiple entries, but one can
usually get sufficient hints about clear QAM support

As with much else, your mileage will vary.

Gary