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New HDTV Encryption Obsoletes Sets

Brian Weatherhead writes "I wrote an article, detailing the MPAA's control over your HDTV. Their new standards will make any HDTV bought before 2002 obsolete! Consumers will be upset to say the least." Talks about the different formats for video signals, and copy protection methods for those signals. And yes, if this goes down, anyone with an HDTV without DVI input could very well be watching 480p signals when HDTV standardizes. Fortunately at the rate this stuff has been happening, those TVs will long since have died. But one thing is for sure- with the DMCA, and these new video formats, PVRs could become a thing of the past.

2 of 366 comments (clear)

  1. Re:We're saved! Well, some of us... by -tji · · Score: 5, Informative

    Actually, No..

    Take a look at the box your HDTV Set Top Box came in, or look at the manual. It includes the capability to "down-res" the analog output, if copyright holders so choose.

    That is what is obsoleting your old set. When the industry decides that DVI is the only acceptable interface, they flip the switch, and the 1080i signal is now down-res'd to 480p.

    What a luxury, to be an industry that can spit on consumers & still flourish. In fact, HDTV owners are often some of the biggest movie fans, trying to get the best quality possible for their movie viewing. And the movie industry says "screw you"!

  2. Re:Glad I didn't buy one.... by Reikk · · Score: 5, Informative


    Nobody is broadcasting in HDTV? All major networks are broadcasting things in HDTV. Hook up an antenna. Here are the following shows I can watch _just tonight_ on my HDTV:

    ABC: Tarzan, Alias, The Practice
    CBS: Eduction of Max Bickford, Rosa Parks Story
    Fox: Simpsons, Malcom, Bernie Mac
    NBC: Winter olympics
    UPN: Buffy
    and more.. movie channels HBO, Showtime, etc.

    Unless you live in the boonies, most major networks are indeed broadcasting in HDTV OTA. HDTV programming is available via satellite for DirectTV and Dish network. HDTV is available via cable for those with certain cable companies (time warner and a few others).

    Next time you post something, try getting a clue and stop karma whoring with your political rhetoric.