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FAQ

Where can I get information about starting a cable program network?
The cable industry is devoted to expanding the choice and diversity of entertainment and education programming offered to its customers. New technologies are providing the opportunity for the creation of new and innovative programming services to enter into the market.

However, a great idea alone does not guarantee success. Launching and distributing a network can be difficult. Understanding how the cable industry works from both a technical and business standpoint is essential to the success of building your own network. Listed below are some suggestions for familiarizing yourself with the industry.
  • Subscribe to cable industry trade magazines.
  • Know and understand the Communications Act and its implementing regulations.
  • Network, familiarize yourself with cable-related organizations, and become a member of one of these professional organizations.
The following organizations may also be able to help you with these steps and increase your knowledge of the cable industry.
  • The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is an independent United States government agency, responsible for regulating the cable industry and other communications industries. It can also provide you with additional information to increase your knowledge of the cable industry. Contact the Cable Services Bureau at (202) 418-7200, or visit the FCC web-site at www.fcc.gov.
  • The Cable Advertising Bureau (CAB) is a nationwide media association providing local, regional and national cable organizations with sales and marketing support for advertising revenues. CAB is an organization you should call when you pursue individualized guidance on starting ad sales. CAB members may take advantage of sales tools and publications such as: Local Cable Planning Kit, Cable Fact Book, Cable Network Profile handbook, and Cable Co-Op Guide. For additional information, contact the Network Marketing and Sales Department at (212) 508-1200 or visit the CAB web-site at www.cabletvadbureau.com.

How can I obtain cable education materials from NCTA?
For more information on cable education materials please visit the CIC Education section of this web site, or visit Cable in the Classroom's website directly.

How can I obtain a Cable Programming Guide?
An online version of the Cable Programming Guide is available in the Resources section of this web site.

How do I report cable theft?
To report Cable Signal Theft, call toll free 1-866-7-Piracy (1-866-774-7229).

Does NCTA have an Internship Program?
For information about Internship opportunities at NCTA, contact NCTA's Department of Public Affairs.

How can I find out who my cable company is?
To find out who your local cable company is, visit the Cable Labs Go2Broadband website.

How can I obtain a copy of the Cable Developments Book, a reference guide which contains industry statistics and program network subscribership?
Visit the NCTA Publications section of this website to learn more about the Cable Developments Book which is now only available online.

What is NCTA, and what is its role as an association?
NCTA is the National Cable & Telecommunications Association. For more information about the role of NCTA as a membership organization, please visit the About NCTA section of this web site.

What services does Cable offer?
For information about the many services that may be available from your cable company, visit the Services section of this Web site.

What is Broadband, and what does it mean to the consumer?
Broadband is the high-speed transmission of voice, data and video signals over a single medium. Cable's broadband infrastructure provides an ideal pipeline for delivery of new advanced services, including digital networks, video-on-demand, interactive television, high-speed Internet access and telephony. For the consumer, this means that their cable company can offer them faster Internet service than a dial-up telephone line via a cable modem; increased programming choices via digital channel capacity, and residential telephone service.

Is cable's high speed Internet access available in my neighborhood?
Visit the Cable Labs Go2Broadband website and learn if cable modem service is available in your area.