FCC Releases Order Permitting All-Digital Cable Systems to Encrypt the Basic Service Tier
October 19, 2012 On October 12, 2012, the FCC released an Order lifting its ban on basic tier encryption for all-digital cable systems, provided that the all-digital systems comply with specific consumer protection measures. To the FCC, “all-digital systems” means systems in which “no television signals are provided using the NTSC system.”
Requests for Waiver of CALM Act Rules Due October 14, 2012
October 8, 2012 If your cable system inserts commercials on digital channels, you may be required to install equipment by December 13, 2012 to comply with the FCC’s CALM Act ru. The regulations require cable operators inserting commercials on digital channels to comply with certain volume standards, detailed in a publication called ATSC A/85, by the December 13 deadline.
October 5, 2012 The FCC has stepped up enforcement of its antenna structure rules, issuing nearly 50 proposed forfeitures in the last year. Alleged violations include, among others, failure to repaint towers to assure visibility. With FCC field inspectors on the lookout for tower violations, tower owners should make sure their towers comply with the FCC’s rules.
FCC Orders Time Warner Cable to Carry In-Market Station in HD
October 5, 2012 The FCC recently granted a must-carry complaint filed by broadcast station KEYT against Time Warner Cable and ordered Time Warner to carry KEYT in high-definition (HD) in in-market communities.
FCC DTV Viewability Rule to Sunset December 12, 2012
October 5, 2012 The FCC’s dual must-carry, or “viewability,” rule will sunset December 12, 2012. The “viewability” rule requires cable operators with hybrid analog-digital systems to carry digital must-carry signals in both analog and digital format.
September 21, 2012 The FCC’s MVPD Equal Employment Opportunity (“EEO”) Program Annual Report, Form 396-C, must be submitted electronically by midnight on October 1, 2012. To file Form 396-C, login to the Media Bureau’s CDBS Electronic Filing System.