CEA Urges Senate to Secure Friendly Transition to DTV
June 16, 2004
Arlington, VA - The preservation and protection of consumers' home recording rights is critical to the success of HDTV and the continued introduction of digital media products and technology, according to statements by the Consumer Electronics Association (CEA).
CEA President and CEO Gary Shapiro recently issued statements regarding the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce Science and Transportation hearings, titled Completing the Digital Television (DTV) Transition:
"CEA commends the Senate Commerce Committee for its longstanding focus on the DTV transition and supports today's exploration of ways to ensure the quick return of the analog spectrum. As the government continues to monitor and assess the transition, we urge policymakers and regulators to ensure that fundamental consumer rights are preserved and that all Americans get access to the high-definition television (HDTV) experience.
"First and foremost, we must continue to preserve consumers' home recording rights as the nation goes digital. Americans' customary viewing, recording and time shifting rights are critical to the continued embrace of HDTV. Congress and regulators should reject outright the content industry's demands to impose "downresing" and "selectable output control" on DTV consumers.
"Additionally, we urge the Congress to closely monitor the introduction of digital cable ready (DCR) products, which now are making their way into consumers' homes. These sets require a security card, known as a CableCARD, which must be obtained directly from the cable provider. It is critical for cable operators to have these cards readily available for consumers upon request at a reasonable cost.
"Finally, satellite companies must be allowed to import distant network HDTV signals in so-called white areas - areas where consumers are not being served by an over-the-air broadcaster. This will allow all Americans easy access to the excitement of HDTV programming."
About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the consumer technology industry through technology policy, events, research, promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA represents more than 1,500 corporate members involved in the design, development, manufacturing, distribution and integration of audio, video, mobile electronics, wireless and landline communications, information technology, home networking, multimedia and accessory products, as well as related services that are sold through consumer channels.
For more information, visit
www.ce.org
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