Child Item

Site Totals

61487 Questions Answered 271 Categories

Want to use FiOS TV via CableCARD - CSR insists I must lease at least one set-top box

Started looking into subscribing to Verizon using a CableCARD-based tuner, since I don't actually own a TV.

I did some research at verizon.com and ran across this page (important parts in bold):

CableCARDS

A CableCARD is a device that provides access to certain encrypted High Definition (HD) and Standard Definition (SD) digital programs without the need for a Set-Top Box.

CableCARD Features and Services

What digital programs can I watch with my CableCARD?

You can view all FiOS TV Standard Definition and High Definition digital channels to which you subscribe. You can also order certain Pay-Per-View events by calling 1-800-VERIZON (1-800-837-4966). Without a Set-Top Box, you do not have access to On Demand programming, the FiOS TV Interactive Media Guide, or other advanced features of the FiOS TV service.

So far, so good. I logged into my account, selected a package, and started the checkout process - and then encountered an odd question: "How many set-top boxes do you need?", where the options were a drop-down list starting with 1 and scaling up. There's an extra $12/month charge (plus taxes, of course) for just one box, and more for other boxes. No way to skip that step.

So apparently, according to Verizon's service rep... I need to pay $12/mo+tax for a set-top box that I don't need, and that will sit on a shelf while I watch Verizon TV through my fully-supported CableCARD adapter.

Comments

sangs1

You don't need an STB or DVR, but here's the easiest thing to do - and I just did it, so I know it works.

Get the STB or DVR along with the Cable Cards. Get everything activated and working - including the cable cards - then return your STB or DVR, either to a FiOS store or via UPS. Voila, you're done and using only Cable Cards. I only have two Cable Cards on my account. Good luck.

y8s

@sangs wrote:
You don't need an STB or DVR, but here's the easiest thing to do - and I just did it, so I know it works.
Get the STB or DVR along with the Cable Cards. Get everything activated and working - including the cable cards - then return your STB or DVR, either to a FiOS store or via UPS. Voila, you're done and using only Cable Cards. I only have two Cable Cards on my account. Good luck.

INTERESTING.

I was considering doing this too. I originally had just a cablecard, then ordered a STB for another room. We don't use it so I wanted to return it. I can't!

Brb going to UPS store.

Child Item