Finkelstein Thompson investigates allegations that some cable companies changed their broadcasting signals, rendering third party devices obsolete. 

Finkelstein Thompson LLP is investigating allegations that some cable companies have changed their broadcasting signals, rendering third party devices, such as TiVo DVR's, partially or completely obsolete. Depending on the method of conversion, users of the third party devices may no longer be able to use all of the device's features or receive all previously receivable channels.

In a recent series of opinions, the F.C.C. has fined two different cable providers for converting their broadcasts to Switched Digital Video (SDV) and rendering their subscriber's TiVo's obsolete or less effective. Complaints received by the F.C.C. included: (1) not being able to receive the same array of channels after the conversion to SDV; (2) not being able to receive any High Definition (HD) channels; and/or (3) being required to use cable company equipment (ex: cable boxes) in order to receive a previously received array of digital and HD cable channels.

If you feel that you may have been victimized by this practice and wish to discuss your rights and interests in this matter, please contact our Washington, D.C. office toll-free at (877) 337-1050 or by email at This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it