What Digital Cable Box Is Used by Time Warner?

The type of receiver Time Warner leases to its subscribers depends on the channels and tiers selected and the level of service desired. Boxes are divided into four primary types: basic receivers with SD-only or SD with HD capability, and those that add a digital video recorder (DVR) to the SD or HD receiver. In addition, Time Warner offers an advanced feature in certain markets known as Whole House DVR, in which the primary DVR has the ability to network with other receivers and DVRs to provide DVR access from each connected box.

Though the specific model numbers of receivers used by Time Warner will change as newer models are produced, the manufacturers will likely stay the same, though again they will vary depending on the individual market. As of 2011, playback (non-DVR) receivers are usually models from companies such as Samsung (may include SMT-H3262 or 3050 HD), Cisco/Scientific Atlanta (Explorer 4642HDC or 3100/3100HD) and Motorola (DCX3200M or DCT2500). The main difference between SD and HD receivers is not only the ability to access and display HD programming, but the addition of the HDMI and component video outputs necessary to send HD signals to an HDTV.

The DVRs that Time Warner supplies to subscribers will most likely be from the same manufacturers as the non-DVR receivers used in that particular market. And, the model numbers will likely be close to those of the standard receivers. Brands are usually Samsung (SMT-H3272 or 3090HD), Cisco/Scientific Atlanta (Explorer 8642HDC, 8000 or 8300) or Motorola (DCX3400M or DCH3416).

Time Warner also uses different DVRs and receivers in the markets that offer the Whole House DVR feature. Though the model numbers of the boxes used will be the same as those mentioned in the previous sections, the manufacturers and Time Warner add the capability for the receivers and DVRs to network with each other, both to pool the overall storage capacity of every connected DVR and to provide DVR functionality from non-DVR receivers. Without upgrading to these specific DVRs and receivers (and the Whole House DVR service), any models you currently use will continue to function independently, even if you manually connect them at home.