About Digital Video Recorder

1. What is DVR?

Cox Digital Video Recorder (DVR) is a revolutionary new product that lets customers take unprecedented control of their television viewing.

With DVR, customers will have the freedom to pause and rewind live TV at the touch of a button, even creating their own instant replays.

DVR lets customers conveniently store up to 50 hours of programming - versus just six hours through a traditional VCR - while watching specific shows whenever they want.

Customers can conveniently rent their DVR set top box from Cox at a cost of just $9.95 per month. There is also a $3.75 monthly charge for the DVR service.


 

2. What is the difference between a DVR and a traditional VCR?

There are several differences between a DVR and VCR: DVRs store television content in a compressed digital format onto a hard disk drive (like a computer). VCRs use VHS or Beta tapes to store recorded information in analog format.

Because DVRs store information onto a hard disk drive in a compressed format, the storage limitations of tape are avoided. For example, videotapes can only capture approximately six hours of programming, while DVRs can store up to 50 hours.

DVRs allow more sophisticated recording options. For example, a DVR can record an entire season's worth of your favorite show, or every movie starring your favorite actor.

The DVR box replaces your existing digital box.

3. I am interested in buying a DVR set top box from my local retail store. Can I use this DVR player with my existing Cox Digital Cable service?

Yes. Existing DVRs are compatible with your Cox Digital Cable service.

However, setting up a DVR system from another vendor with your Cox Cable television box may be confusing to some users.

If you have Cox Digital Cable, you will likely end up with two separate program guides - the Cox guide and the DVR guide. This will likely be confusing and/or cumbersome to the user.

 

4. Will I need to purchase or rent any special equipment to use Cox DVR?

You will be able to conveniently rent a DVR-enabled set-top from Cox for just $9.95 a month. This box will replace your existing digital set-top box which you are currently renting for $3.75.

Besides a television set, there is no additional equipment needed to enjoy Cox Digital Video Recorder.

In addition, customers also pay $3.75 a month for the DVR service itself.

5. When will Cox DVR be available in my neighborhood?

DVR from Cox Communications will be available to upgraded customers beginning February 2, 2004. Customers must subscribe to Cox Digital Cable in order to enjoy DVR service.

6. How much will Cox DVR cost?

Customers wishing to subscribe to Cox DVR must rent a special set top box from Cox at a price of $9.95 per month, which replaces their existing digital set top box.

In addition, there is a $3.75 charge for the DVR service.

7. I am a basic cable customer. Will Cox DVR service be available to me? If not, why?

Basic cable customers must upgrade to Cox Digital Cable in order to enjoy the DVR service.

Because the technology is so advanced, DVR functionality is only available with a digital set-top box.

DVR is an elaborate digital service that requires a more advanced set top box than what is offered on the basic service level.

8. Do my Program Guide Parental Controls carry over to DVR recordings?

Yes, if you block programs by channel or rating in General Settings, those settings are carried over to DVR recordings.

For example, if you decide to block all R-rated programs in General Settings, the R-rated programs will still be recorded, but you cannot play them back until you enter the correct PIN.

Because this is a new box to your home, you will need to reset the parental controls you placed on the former digital box.

 

9. I am a Cox HDTV customer. Is your new DVR product compatible with my existing HDTV service?

Yes.  If you have Cox High Definition Service you can simply swap out your HD Receiver for a HD/DVR Receiver.