Quote:
Originally Posted by matthewb0051
I would like an explanation for why one is required to access HD. Are new TVs not capable of receiving that signal?
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Why yes, they are.
But if your provider doesn't supply HDTV, but instead chooses to encrypt (aka "scramble") the content, then you'll need a cablecard to access it.
So it's not HDTV your TV doesn't understand, it's the encryption the TV company added to protect it from people who aren't paying them money.
Some TVs may accept a cablecard - many don't. If yours does, your TV supplier should be happy to rent you one. But good luck if you can't get it working in 5 minutes; they won't support it (and there's lots of ways they can mess it up too - either "accidentally" or on purpose).
If that doesn't work out, go back to the 90's and use a STB (set-top box) - per TV - that accepts the cablecard. Which your TV provider, again, will be happy to rent you.
The statement about "you need a box to use a FireStick" (or Chromecast or any streaming internet-based service) is complete & utter, bald-faced lies or total incompetence/IdontknowwtfImtalkingabout - take your pick.
My $0.02; Just walk away. Don't look back. S'what I did. Never been happier.