Floppyhead – Digital Media and Streaming

According to PCMag, Dell is planning on re-entering the Digital Cable Tuner market by this summer. Currently, Dell is not offering consumers the option to buy DCTs since the XPS 420 is not approved by CableLabs.

Dell’s new strategy will be a slight deviation from most OEM’s. DCTs require two things: 1) an upgraded BIOS and 2) a protected content path through HDCP. Dell is planning on making both of those items standard on their high-end systems. That way, when a consumer is ready to buy a DCT, they do not have to buy a whole new system.

This simple approach makes sense. Dell is trying to create an aftermarket for DCTs, kind of like a Trojan horse strategy. DCTs are certainly a work in progress and Dell is betting that the situation is improved (i.e. less tech support calls). From the article:

“We’re now after that round of testing and ready for more widespread deployment,” Clardy said. CableCards have been leased primarily by enthusiasts and early adopters: “the most critical audience out there, knowledgeable and enthusiastic,” he added. “You don’t want to upset that mass of customers.”

Dell is certainly an important ally to DCTs. If anyone can create a market for HD media centers, Dell can.