CABLE... TO CHOOSE OR NOT TO CHOOSE

With the cost of going to the movies on the rise and the very lucrative option of seeing all their old and new favourite motion pictures on DVD, once avid movie-goers are paying less visits to the cinemas and a significant number are opting to use subscriber television services to fill their entertainment needs. With the number of licensed service providers increasing, almost any of today’s cable companies can build a plan to meet the needs of the many households, which they serve due to the gradual shift, since the late 1990’s, to the use of cable boxes.

In making the choice as to whether or not to include cable service as a part of your monthly budget, here are some guidelines that you could follow:

• If your interest in cable lies squarely with watching movies, compare subscription fees with the cost of renting videos or DVDs in instances that you don’t think that a cinema screen adds that ‘wow’ experience. A 2004 survey indicates that installation and a month’s subscription could run anywhere between $1,500.00 and $6,500.00.

• If you are on a tight budget, basic digital cable might be an option for you. You may able to add channels or packages of channels that best suit your viewing preferences. Additionally, if your television is designed to play high-definition images and digital sounds, you will be able to get a sharper, more true-to-life experience, similar to being in a theatre (intermission optional).

• With the implementation of Government’s Children’s Code for Programming, companies that make their service available through the use of cable boxes allow parents and guardians greater control over the programmes, which their children are able to view. As channels can be restricted through the use of special codes. Include this as part of your decision when applying for cable service.

• Find out if the operator is a licensed provider, as this will influence the extent to which regulators such as the Broadcasting Commission or the Consumer Affairs Commission will be able to get compensation for you should there be any breaches in the terms of the contract for service.

• Determine the company’s redress policy for compensating customers whose service is interrupted because of technical difficulties that are due to no fault of the customer. It makes no sense paying for a service that constantly interrupts your viewing!

• Be clear on what you are paying for and your responsibilities with regards to using and caring for cable boxes and their remotes, also determine if there is any warranty covering their use. Some providers issue only one remote control per residence even if they purchase more than one cable box. Hence, factor the cost of the additional remote(s) in your decision to get cable service.

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