CableCARD Guide - Do you really need a CableCARD slot with your new HDTV?

Introduction

One of the new “features” that you may have heard about on HDTV sets is a CableCARD slot. While a TV equipped CableCARD slot does offer some advantages over a TV without this type of slot, it may not be something that you really need or want with your new HDTV set. This article is intended to provide an explanation of what a CableCARD offers, how it works and to help you decide whether or not you need one with your new HDTV.

What is a CableCARD?

A CableCARD is a small card designed to replace the bulky set-top cable boxes that cable and satellite providers use. Like a cable box, it is designed to decode encrypted digital cable signals so that you're able to watch these channels on your TV. Cable and satellite providers will often charge a monthly fee for a CableCARD. The reason cable and satellite companies use set-top boxes and CableCARDs is to keep people from stealing their services. The digital TV signals are encrypted before they are sent to your home, and the set-top box or CableCARD decrypts the signal so that it can be displayed on your TV. So, in essence, the purpose of the CableCARD is exactly the same as a set-top box.