Good news, OCURs (can) support Tuning Adapters. Bad news, OCUR is an open spec and the fact
that they “can” doesn’t mean a whole lot.
CableLabs
recently addressed the issue (PDF)with the two fantastic (ok, maybe not) bits of information below. Pair
that with Microsoft’s own fantastic response from a few months ago and the
bottom line is not to expect a Tuning Adapter mixed with an OCUR any time soon.
If things work the
way I think they will then we are waiting for one of two things to happen.
Possibility A:
CableLabs updates the specs for the TA/TR to clearly state that it can work
with OCURs using the PC as a hub. ATI
provides a firmware update for the OCURs to work and Microsoft updates Windows
and Media Center to allow it to work.
Possibility B: ATI
or some other company releases new OCURs (eg. New hardware) with the correct
firmware upgrades and USB port configuration to work with the current TR specs. Microsoft provides an update for Media Center
because CableLabs is suggesting it will be needed.
Judging by CableLabs verbiage in the below statements, I
think a bit more than a Tuning Adapter connecting to the PC is involved. It isn’t a good sign when the main entity
behind these things is saying that a timeline for development hasn’t been
identified. Stay tuned for some other
changes CableLabs is making.
Can existing DTVs, STBs or OCURs by upgraded
to support the Tuning Adapter?
“Existing one-way products that already include an USB port may be able to be upgraded by the
manufacturer to support the Tuning Adapter.
Some manufacturers have announced plans for much upgrades. For more information, check with the
manufacturer of your unidirectional Digital Cable Product.”
Will the Tuning
Adapter work with a Vista PC that is equipped with a Digital Cable Tuner?
“The TRIF specification is designed so that it can also with
a Vista PC that is equipped with a Digital Cable Tuner. However
the timing for the development, availability and support of compatible products
depends upon the PC and OCUR manufacturers’ schedule, as well as necessary
upgrades provided by Microsoft.”
Cross Posted from Chris Lanier's Blog at
http://msmvps.com/blogs/chrisl/