What does the CableCARD technology do?
CableCARD technology allows a digital cable-ready TV to receive digital programs without the use of a set-top box. The TV must be labeled by the manufacturer as “Digital Cable Ready” and must have the Cox CableCARD activated. The CableCARD is inserted into the CableCARD slot built into the TV. The CableCARD descrambles the encrypted digital signal provided by Cox. The first generation of CableCARDs is “one-way,” meaning the service cannot support two-way interactivity. One-way CableCARDs are not capable of accessing interactive program guides (IPG), Parental Controls, Entertainment on Demand (EOD) services, Pay-Per-View (PPV) movies, or special program events. The cable and consumer electronics industries are currently exploring a two-way technology, but its availability has not been determined.