Cable television
is an operating system that transmits video services to subscribers by way of their cable operators via coaxial or optical fiber cables. Created in the late 1940s, cable television allowed communities out of distance of television stations to receive reception. By locating antennas with good reception and picking up broadcast station signals, cable operators are able to charge a fee. Today, cable television has expanded beyond the United States, operating in countries such as Switzerland and Italy.
Satellite is Not Cable
By Federal Communications Committee (FCC) guidelines, cable television, which was once referred to as Community Antenna Television (CATV), is defined as programming delivered by hard wire. According to PC Magazine, cable television is "the transmission of TV programs into the home or office via coaxial cable." Therefore, any digital broadcasting that's delivered via satellite is not considered cable television.
Broadcast Providers
Cable suppliers in the United States include Comcast, Time Warner Cable, Cablevision, Charter Communications, Mediacom Communications and Cox Communications. Cable is usually easier to install but has fewer channels that satellite. Satellite providers include DirecTV, DISH Network, Voom and GlobeCast WorldTV. Although satellite television usually has superior broadcast quality, it is more prone to reception interference caused by hazardous weather conditions.
Subscription Options
Cable services are usually available in three assortments or tiers, as they're commonly called. Starting with basic service, this package includes all over-the-air television broadcast signals as well as the must-carry requirements of the Communications Act. Cable programming allows subscribers to add on programming not included with basic service. Per-channel programming allows subscribers to pay-per-view, as it's commonly referred to. Media specialist SNL Kagan states that in 2007, the average cost of expanded basic cable service was $42.76. Some cable providers charge a separate hardware fee.
Beyond Television
Cable providers often possess an immense channel capacity, allowing them to provide programming that goes beyond typical television broadcast. According to the National Cable & Telecommunications Association (NCTA), beginning in 1996, more than $130 billion has been dedicated to expanding cables services, which has resulted in digital and high definition television as well as interactive services. Subscribers have an assortment to choose from, ranging from business information and weather forecasts to children's programming and special entertainment. The addition of the Internet and telephone services to cable subscriptions is commonly known as a "triple play."
Basic Requirements
In compliance with FCC regulations, the registration of a cable system requires that you first provide your legal name along with entity identification or a social security number, as well as declaring your individual, private association or partnership status. A mailing address must also be provided, as well as a phone number. You then must supply the name of your community or neighborhood, as well as the country it is located. Finally, an official representative of the cable company must authorize all registration statements.
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