This holds true even if your cable box is purchased as a non-addressable non-detectable, and "bullet proof" unit. 2. Are all cable converters alike? No. Prices can range from $15 to $400 depending on the quality and amount of features included in the equipment. Some companies offer to sell you a description of how you can build (implied), with only 7 parts from radio shack, a converter. Some sell old converters that are barely in date and likely to be replaced by the cable companies by higher technological grades of equipment Some cable box sellers provide systems that hardly provide any benefit to the purchaser where the quality of reception is poor, without recourse. State-of-the-art cable box companies will provide the most recent technology in a variety of packages tailored to fit the customer’s budget.

When you add a descrambler to your converter, it allows you to view all premium channels. 6. What is a cable descrambler? A cable descrambler is a device that restores the picture and sound of a scrambled channel. A descrambler must be used with a converter (in a two piece configuration) to be able to descramble all the premium channels of a cable system. 7. What is a cable converter-descrambler? A single (one piece) unit capable of descrambling premium channels. This unit contains a converter and a descrambler, enclosed in a common box. This is also the most common type of equipment supplied by the cable company to subscribing customers. Customers usually pay a specified monthly rental fee for such equipment.

The weak signal may cause a "snowy" or gray picture, or may even result in weak color or lack of color. Since most cable viewers use several different video components, it is recommended that an amplifier be used to restore the signal strength and the picture sharpens. In most cases, the amplifier brings the picture " back to life " and restores it’s original quality. Consider using a 10db amplifier to improve signal strength. 13. What happens when there isn''t a replacement for your cable company box? Most converter sources will carry the common brands. When your company doesn’t carry your brand then you need to find out if they either have it in stock or have a source for your uncommon make and model.