FCC Sets Comment Period for Set-Top Box Proceedings

On April 21, 2010, the Federal Communications Commission adopted a Fourth Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the Implementation of Section 304 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996: Competitive Availability of Navigation Devices; Compatibility Between Cable Systems and Consumer Electronics Equipment proceeding. In the Fourth FNPRM, the FCC requests comment on proposed changes to the current CableCARD system to make it more consumer-friendly while a new technology approach is being developed. The FCC also seeks comment on a proposed rule that would specify the functionality of the IEEE-1394 interface on set-top boxes and enable other interfaces as well. Finally, the FCC seeks comment on proposed changes to our rules to encourage cable operators to use their capacity more efficiently. The Fourth FNPRM set deadlines for filing comments and reply comments at 30 and 45 days after publication of the Fourth FNPRM in the Federal Register. On May 14, 2010, a summary of the Fourth FNPRM was published in the Federal Register. Accordingly, comments and reply comments must be filed on or before June 14, 2010 and June 28, 2010, respectively.

On April 21, 2010, the FCC adopted a Notice of Inquiry in the Video Device Competition; Implementation of Section 304 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996: Competitive Availability of Navigation Devices; Compatibility Between Cable Systems and Consumer Electronics Equipment proceeding. In the Notice of Inquiry, the Commission requests comment on ways to foster a more competitive marketplace for navigation devices and in particular calls for comment on a standardized interface that enables smart video devices to bring video from a variety of sources, including, for example, cable or satellite, online video, and a consumer's home library, together for ease of selection, recording, and viewing. The Notice of Inquiry set deadlines for filing comments and reply comments at 60 and 90 days after publication of the Notice of Inquiry in the Federal Register. On May 14, 2010, a summary of the Notice of Inquiry was published in the Federal Register. Accordingly, comments must be filed on or before July 13, 2010; and reply comments must be filed on or before August 12, 2010.