Archive for September, 2008

As a bit of a political junkie, I’m very excited to see the presidential debate tonight. I’ll be watching it on cable, as I watched the conventions on cable previously (Note my earlier post on the cable’s convention coverage).  You’ve got your choice of CNN, Fox News, MSNBC, C-SPAN, Fox Business, and BBC America.

While I typically stick to discussions of policy issues, broadband, and emerging technology, when I see some really good news about cable and our ongoing efforts to improve customer service, I have to talk about it.

In a recent GigaOm post, Stacy Higginbotham suggests cable’s concern with white space devices is a response to the new broadband competition they would provide to cable.  Michael addressed NCTA’s ex parte filing earlier this week, but it’s important to understand what has happened in the longer history of the white spaces debate.

Earlier this week, the House Energy and Commerce subcommittee on telecommunications and the Internet held a hearing: “Status of the DTV Transition: 154 Days and Counting.” As a reminder that the Digital TV Transition is about over-the-air broadcast TV stations, one could note some of the issues raised in press coverage.

UPDATE: Some minor adjustments were made to the schedule. The schedule is now up to date as of 10/06/2008. Cable Connection- Spring schedule is finally out, though changes may be made it to the closer we get to April 2009.

NCTA last week filed an ex parte letter with the FCC regarding the so called “white space” devices and interference with cable systems. While much of the media coverage of these devices has focused on interference with broadcast signals, an often overlooked aspect is the negative impact they can have on cable systems.

Congratulations to CableCares for raising over $280,000 to donate to a number of organizations dedicated to helping with Hurricane Katrina efforts.  From their press release yesterday: $100,000 — Hands On New Orleans.

As reported earlier, there was the first major test of the DTV Transition in Wilmington on Monday. Things largely seemed to go well, with a few exceptions.

As you’ve probably read, the Federal Communications Commission chose the Wilmington, NC market as the first test case for the Digital Television transition (Here’s the story from the local paper, the Star-News).

Quick reminder that this Friday is the last day to be eligible for the first round draft of exhibitors. Get in quick before all the prime locations are gone.