Quote:
Originally Posted by Kymmy
As VM is a closed system (in other words you need a supplied set top box and a viewing card) then I personally don't see the point of this query. Unlike freesat/freeview and even sky where you don't need a dedicated connection to the system due to them being EM signals radiated through the open air which means that anyone with the right equipment will receive FTA signals. It wouldn't surprise me if all TV shows were encrypted on the VM network.
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Nope, VM broadcast FTA channels too.
These can be accessed by both former subscribers with VM equipment and those who have never subscribed using non VM equipment.
Quote:
Originally Posted by RobboEdin
Sorry!!!
Who are these non-subscribers?
You seem to be supporting those who steal Virgin Media services.
They have no right to any channels from a non-subscribed Virgin Media connection.
Virgin Media - please encrypt all channels.
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As I explained earlier, VM are not allowed to encrypt some channels and choose not to encrypt others (probably because the channels in question are not worth the costs of scrambling the signal).
VM are aware of this situation as, some time ago, when they bought a shopping channel, they turned off the encryption to improve it's reach.
Non subscribers can be a person who has cancelled and VM didn't require the box back (like the friend of mine below), those who use unauthorised equipment (less likely now that the Pay TV channels are no longer available for free since the introduction of Nagra 3 encryption) and those with cable TV's.
VM probably aren't bothered because it costs them nothing extra, it may end up with a paying TV customer in the future and the service is limited.
I wouldn't get too upset about this, as these people receive less than what is available on Freeview.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Mr K
Have to admit I was surprised that some channels remained after taking my card out. Can see now why some ex-customers retain their boxes and they crop up on ebay.
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Indeed.
A friend of mine had to cancel VM TV due to the cuts in disability benefits, he doesn't have an aerial and isn't allowed to put up a satellite dish.
They didn't want his old SD box back, so now he uses it for Radio 4, BBC1 and BBC News and is perfectly happy.
If the HD PSB channels were available, I was going to suggest he upgrade to an HD box, but now that you have kindly informed me that they aren't, I won't mention this to him
He's done this for years, but has been made aware that he may be cut off should VM require the connection in the cabinet for a paying customer.
Unfortunately, Catch Up TV does not work for non subscribers, so if this happens, i'll advise him to get a streaming stick. The costs of this can be recouped by then being able to cancel his TV licence.