| Cablecards are basically the venue that cable companies will use with Windows Vista for PVR systems in the USA. As I understand it, computer OEMs will be incorporating Cablecard hardware technology into new computers that would in essence be HTPC. What will happen is that all cable broadcast can then be recorded, with some restrictions and copy protection built in. Direct TV (satellite) is reported to be going with their receiver being the venue for all their broadcasting incorporating copy protection for PVR use.
What all that means is yet to be totally worked out with all the parties involved, i.e. cable, satellite, windows/MS, movie makers, broadcasters, studios, etc. All of this is geared for the MS Vista being the operating platform for all this in 2007. You can go to Microsoft and other websites that will explain it in better detail.
Where does that leave us who built their own HTPC? Not really clear yet as there is some unnecessary paranoia about copy protection on "home built systems" not being "compliant" with the standards. I think is another way of monopolizing an industry or product to the benefit only of the industry, not the consumer. Surely, the industry can produce a card that one can buy and install on their HTPCs that would allow cable/satellite PVR recording, and still meet their "protection" concerns. We'll see how it shakes out. |