Markey wants more from cable set-top boxes

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) must act to make cable set-top boxes easier for consumers to install and use without being tied to a single cable provider, according to a letter from Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.).

The commission has scheduled a vote at next Thursday's open meeting on possible changes to the FCC’s CableCARD rules to make cable set-top boxes more consumer-friendly and to promote competition in the market for such devices. The FCC's original rules were designed in hopes of spurring a retail market in video navigation devices, which has thus far not met expectations.

"There has been tremendous innovation in two of the three main devices for connecting to broadband services — smartphones and personal computers — but the set-top box is simply not as 'smart' or as available as it should be for consumers," Markey wrote.

Markey urged FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski to simplify the CableCARD rules to make it easier for users to install the boxes themselves instead of relying on a technician. He also expressed his support for a video gateway device that enables users to switch seamlessly between cable and Internet video content.

Markey called for a new system that would require cable providers to install a gateway device in all homes by the end of 2012 that would allow them to leverage video content from several sources on their home TVs. He said CableCARD installations are currently laborious and time-consuming, while the high price and inability to change content providers make them an unappealing choice.

"With these gateway devices, consumers should be able to navigate the universe of video content that is available to them, moving seamlessly between watching their favorite show or a Netflix movie, updating their Facebook page or accessing their computer's hard drive and Internet content through their broadband connection," Markey said, adding that such a capability would benefit consumers and foster innovation.

In supporting the CableCARD proceedings, Markey is essentially adding his voice to those of Genachowski and the FCC, who are expected to approve steps similar to the ones he outlined at next week's meeting.