the comcast said you don't have to have digitl cable or upgrade that it cable would still work without a box. my granmams hastwo tvs only goes thur 2 tur 13 . but my grandmamas has one in here room she gets all the chanels and on demond. but they cut off reular cable to 2 thur 70 to 2 thr 13. that not fair.some people couldn't forward ithink you can get smaller box not get on demond or anything. but isn't that a lie. that they said you didn't need the box but if you want history chanel or other chanels. pluse they take away reulger cable channel keep add them on the box. i got the box. i like it a lot but i can't take anything on my hard drive only if i watch it. i was just wondering what people think ofthis?

I'm a little confused about your question, Tubehead, but I think I understand what you're trying to say.

A cable box is needed to get the higher channels because some of them are broadcast in high definition - and it's DEFINITELY needed if she wants to watch On Demand.

Also, the higher channels are broadcast digitally on a different bandwith from the lower (2-94) basic channels. The digital box is needed to get those channels because it can decode that bandwith. The signals come directly from Comcast's satellites to the boxes - and are there decoded into viewing patterns.

If you want to record stuff from your box to watch on your puter later, you should ask for a cable box with a media recording unit included. The fee is probably going to be an additional $5-$10 extra (depending on where you are), but it would be worth it if that's what you want to do.

thanks for the reply. i enjoy watching the newer channels espcaily reterochannel. i watch the a -team and magnum pi i even been watcing history channel a lot. . i just don't think it not fair espcaily for my grandpap. he can't afford it.