cM :: MORLEY|DIGITAL

I’ve seen a lot of buzz around the web about MSI’s DIVA HTPC platform and its ability to support ATI’s TV Wonder Digital Cable tuner.  This is correct, but not for end users.  The MSI motherboard has the table built in for the AMD/MS OEM partners to put in their CableLabs information to enable playback of digital cable content including encrypted QAM content.  However, this table is not populated.  An individual is not able to enter into the necessary agreements with the relevant parties in order to get this information.  Furthermore, you must be direct with Microsoft to get the special COAs that have a digital cable activation PID.  Without this PID you will not be able to even enable digital cable during the TV Tuner setup portion of Media Center.  So buy DIVA because it’s a kickass HTPC platform, but please don’t waste your money if you think you’re going to get digital cable working.

Edit:  Amazingly, some people still aren’t convinced.  From MSI’s own website:  ”Support ATI OCUR capable for Microsoft OEM approved Integrators” – this doesn’t include end users.