What are the benefits of using a CableCARD?
The CableCARD allows you to receive digital programming, including high-definition (HD) programs, without a set-top box.

What is a digital cable ready television?
New to the marketplace, a digital cable ready TV has built-in technology that allows consumers to receive standard definition and high-definition (HD) digital cable programs using a CableCARD rather than a set-top box.

Back to Top

How does a digital cable ready television work?
In addition to the electronics typically found in most television sets, a digital cable ready TV incorporates many of the same electronics that are found in a digital set-top box. The only exception is that a digital cable ready TV does not contain technology that will allow the television to display scrambled, often called encrypted, digital signals. To display a scrambled signal requires decryption technology. This decryption technology is built into the CableCARD device. Since CFU encrypts most, if not all, digital cable signals, a CableCARD port must be built in the digital cable ready TV and then activated by the CableCARD in order for the TV to receive digital cable programming.

Where can I buy a CableCARD?
You can rent a CableCARD from CFU for $5 a month.

If I buy a digital cable ready TV, will I continue to enjoy all the features that I currently have through my digital set-top box?
Cable CARD technology cannot support two-way interactivity so you will not have access to the Interactive TV Guide or pay per view.

What if I want two-way interactive services?
If you would like to receive two-way services, such as the Interactive TV Guide and pay per view, you must rent a digital set-top box from CFU.

Is a digital cable ready TV and a TV with an integrated digital tuner the same thing?
No. A digital cable ready TV has built-in technology that decrypts digital programming using the CableCARD device instead of a set-top box. A TV with an integrated digital tuner can receive unencrypted digital and HD video from over-the-air broadcasters. A cable set-top box will have to be installed for these TVs to receive encrypted digital cable programming and advanced digital services.

Will my CableCARD device work in another digital cable ready TV?
No. After your CableCARD device is installed and initialized by a CFU Technician, the CableCARD device is “paired” with the original digital cable ready device in which it was installed. In order for your CableCARD device to operate properly in another digital cable ready device, the CableCARD device has to be installed in the new device by a CFU Technician.

What happens if I move?
If you move outside of Cedar Falls, you must return the CableCARD to CFU. The CableCARD will not work in other cable systems. If you move within Cedar Falls, call CFU at 268-5283 to notify CFU of your move.

CableCARD is a trademark of CableLabs, Inc.