[HDFootyMan]

Getting back onto topic...

Originally Posted by acoolwelshbloke

Let's not forget I reckon at least 2007 before NTL get their PVR out on the market, by then there will be better DVD recorders on the market that cost less than there is now!

You're probably right.

I would guess that NTL have to write two versions of their PVR software, one for Bromley, one for Langley. That software would have to include all the standard digital recording options (Chase play, time shifting, multiple recordings etc), along with a new EPG which would have to allow at least eight days worth of program info.

Plus †“ they would have to carry out any necessary work on upgrading the network to support HDTV (I think MPEG 4 requires around 10 Meg per second for HDTV). Not to mention all the software testing to making sure that existing apps (BBCi, NTL VOD) work on the new box †“ and securing enough of the new PVR boxes for the customers.

That's a lot of work to done between now and the end of December.

I would be surprised if by the end of this year, every NTL customer would be able to ring up customer services and order a PVR installation. Of course, Iâ₠¬ÃƒÆ’¢â€žÂ¢m speculating based on the available info we have from NTL about PVR availability, which is †œComing soon in 2006.ââ‚ƚ¬Ã‚ÂÂÂ� We have no idea how far along NTL are in terms of writing the software; upgrading the network; or even securing HD content.

One thingââ‚ƚ¬Ã¢â€žÂ¢s for sure: Before the end of this year, the Sky+ HDTV box will be out (alongside with various Sky HD channels), alongside with BTââ‚ ¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚¢s Freeview Hard-Drive PVR which also offers VOD via broadband (dunno if you have to download the content or if it streams it).

Add all the NTL customers like myself, who have already got a DVR - and by the time NTL release their PVR, there might not be a such of a market for it.

Why on earth have they taken so long to release a PVR???? Then again, I could say the same for VOD in my area, or even BBCi News Multiscreens.