DirecTV 1080P

[unkyjoe]

Greetings,

Just in case some of you were unaware, DirecTV did a software update that now supports 1080P on thier DVR devices, I dont know about standalone DTV HD receivers, but on the DVR 1080P is only available via HDMI.

I think I expected that one, for me it is no big deal, as I only use 720p.

But if they can limit the 1080P to HDMI, can and will they phase out 1080i and 720P over component?

Just a quess at this point.

[Fonceur]

Keep in mind that DirectTV are basically downloading a blue-ray dvd to those receivers for later viewing, which probably explains why it's DRM-infected and requires HDMI... But it's unlikely that they would want to alienate their customers by plugging the analog hole just for the fun of it...

[HelenWeathers]

Copied this from an installer info package posted at dbstalk.com some time back:

What is HDCP? HDCP is a form of copy protection that protects digital video and audio content as it travels across either DVI or HDMI interconnect cables. (see http://www.hdmi.org/learningcenter/kb.aspx (choose Category "HDCP - Content Protection") for details.

Why is DIRECTV using it? Major movie studios have obligated ALL Pay-TV operators including DIRECTV to incorporate this content protection for PPV and VOD movies. We will see this on all cable and satellite set top boxes very soon.

How does it work on DIRECTV HD set-top boxes? If a DIRECTV HD STB is connected using an HDMI or DVI cable to an HDTV or HD monitor that doesn't support HDCP content protection, and the programming tuned requires that HDCP content protection be applied, then the STB will not output the programming and display an On Screen Display (OSD).

How does the HDCP OSD read? "This program includes content protection that restricts viewing on the television attached to your DIRECTV receiver’s HDMI connector."

DirecTV is also limiting the time you have watch some VOD, PPV and Premium Channel recordings on your DirecTV DVR to 24hrs or 48hrs.

EDIT: The general concensus is that those programs that are protected will not be fed to the YPbPr outputs in HiDef or not passed at all.

[Skirge01]

That'll be when this comes into play. Not cheap, but it'll resolve the limitation.