What Cable Box Will Work With Time Warner?

The set-top receiver box is provided by Time Warner for a monthly fee upon subscription to cable TV service. The subscriber can elect to instead connect the TV directly to the cable outlet or use a CableCARD. No previously-purchased cable box will work with Time Warner cable TV due to the technology that must be used for the box to access Time Warner's channels and features.

The specific box provided by Time Warner will match the programming package chosen by the subscriber. These range from a basic set-top receiver for basic cable to models with digital cable and high definition (HD) capability. These models have the capacity to access other services and content, such as on-screen menus and guides, pay-per-view and On Demand programming. In addition, the subscriber can opt to have a digital video recorder (DVR) integrated with the receiver box, to record and play back programs at any time.

The make of the receiver/DVR will vary based on the brands used by your local Time Warner Cable office. Brands commonly used include Scientific Atlanta, Motorola, Cisco and Samsung. Also, the remote control that accompanies the receiver will vary by location and may be produced by a company other than the one that manufactures the receiver, such as Universal Remote Control, Inc.

Another type of DVR and service offered by Time Warner in some areas is known as Whole House DVR. This allows you to record a program on one DVR and watch it on any TV in the house that is connected to your home network. To use this service, you must have two HD DVRs linked to each other (and to HDTV sets) and additional receiver/DVRs connected to any additional TVs to be viewed. Contact your local Time Warner office to find out if this service is available in your area and to get the necessary receiver/DVR boxes necessary to implement it.