So it’s Q2 and I’m probably not the only one wondering where the SDV Tuning Resolver is. If you recall, this product will allow unidrectional CableCARD retail devices to tune switched digital video channels – which would otherwise be unavailable for viewing. It’s unlikely older CableCARD devices like first generation TVs with slots would receive a firmware upgrade to support the resolver, but I assume TiVo will be (is) all over this – in fact, they’ll need to be as SDV spreads.
Given the multiple layers of testing and certification (manufacturer, CableLabs, TiVo, MSOs) plus training and deployment logistics (cost?), I figured the Q2 target was somewhat aggressive and the HD Guru has discovered:
according to a Cisco spokesperson, its version is now undergoing testing at Cablelabs and is not expected to be released until sometime this summer.
At CES I learned the potential exists for a smaller, more elegant “USB dongle” (as we originally envisioned), rather than the larger AC-powered form factor Mari uncovered at Motorola. I’m hoping this makes it to market. And it’d be especially nice if it could be distributed in retail along with CableCARD devices, rather than (or in addition to) having to go through the local cable-co.
Frankly, this whole thing (SDV) is a cluster and defeats the original purpose/intent of mandated separable security (and confuses consumers – good for MSOs who want you on their VOD boxes). Unfortunately, there’s no simple solution – bandwidth is finite. Both the industry and their CableCARD TiVo customers will need the tuning resolver as a stop-gap and the sooner we get to tru2way devices, the better.
(Thanks, HDTiVo for the HD Guru link!)