Comcast Standard Vs. Digital

Comcast standard cable service uses analog technology, while the Xfinity service uses digital technology. The primary difference between these two technologies is that high definition programming is not available via analog cable service. In order to view HD programming, you'll need to subscribe to the digital service, upgrade to a digital cable box and connect the service to an HDTV. Local channels and some basic cable channels are often available in HD, even via the standard service, but you'll still need the digital equipment to view them.

In addition to HD programming, some cable channels are available only on the digital service. Channel availability varies by market, but in general, Comcast is steadily migrating its cable channels to digital-only service. Since analog channels require more space on the provider's network, switching channels to digital allows Comcast to offer more channels overall. In order to continue watching channels that are switched to digital, subscribers must upgrade from an analog cable box to a digital box. Other TV options, such as on-demand viewing, are available only via the digital service.

Subscribing to the Xfinity digital service allows customers to take advantage of Comcast's cable Internet products. Internet features include download speeds up to 15 Mbps, email accounts, online storage and online gaming. To connect to the Internet and set up a wireless network, you'll need a cable modem and a wireless router. Comcast can provide this equipment or assist in the set up of equipment you already own.

Comcast also offers telephone voice services through its Xfinity packages. These services use the Comcast network to provide voice service similar to traditional land line telephone service. Features include call waiting, caller ID and voicemail. Billing for usage is similar to land line services, with unlimited local calling and per-minute charges for long distance calls.