Isn't the idea behind HDCP that it is a standard protocol, and the receiver does not need to know the model of the TV? That all devices should work the same and not have device-specific differences? Maybe I'm dreaming.
While the method of performing HDCP *is* a defined standard the problems still come up, anything that causes a misread or time-out condition could lead to HDCP failure.
HDMI :: Installers :: Troubleshooting
it is *this* blurb on that page that suggests to me that having HDMI plugged in at all on the Dish Receiver side, while testing or using Component Outputs could cause HDCP to fail
In other words, the source must consistently send a signal inquiring if its HDMI input is selected, even while another input is in use. If a source device times out and stops inquiring, an HDCP authentication failure will probably result.
For the TV's side of things.. what if while a different HDMI port is active.. the TV stops looking at the HDCP/HDMI signalling from the other HDMI ports? Makers of *source* equipment assume that if an HDMI cable is there, and makes an electrical path (Ground & any other pin) that the HDMI port should be responding.. a failure to respond would be seen as a timeout and fail HDCP *or* that perhaps a rogue device is out there and trying *not* to be seen for copying in the path... etc.. so thusly the Source shuts off video output.
What is unknown is what Dish's stance is ... Sure they are turning on HDCP ... or HBO is.. but exactly where is dish going to apply that HDCP mandate? Are they ONLY going to apply it to the HDMI PORT? Or are they going to apply it to ALL outputs of the box.
If applied to all outputs of the box, then **ANY** Time HDCP is to be enforced, **ALL** other non-hdcp compliant outputs much be shut off/blocked/etc. Its in the licensing for HDMI/HDCP ... not the spec but the licensing that mandates NO ANALOG OUTPUT (one exception is made for AUDIO ... not Video!).
I see the 813 series and its 110's the next evolutionary step .. and that pretty soon, dish will be required to have HDMI on all devices and no analog outputs of any form. I mean really.. why add components to a device if 90% of your content will require analog be shut off?
The only way this is going to stop, is if someone sues and wins against HDCP's over-reaching mandates. I'd hate to say it but there are sometimes cases where the Gov't might actually have to step in .. otherwise the consumer is going to lose every time. Manufacturers aren't going to protect the consumer.. think about it.. "I'm sorry mister customer *they* require this HDCP and your old set does not comply you will need to update your set" The TV Manufacturers make out.. the people making content and requiring HDCP be used are making out.. the consumer however will have to replace that 10 year old Tube set ... spending 300 or more to get a comparable Digital set.. (I've an older 36 inch tube set.. heavy as all can be... had SVideo & Component ... a comparable wide screen sized screen would be 46 or more inches, because lets face it they aren't making 36" 3:4 format screens any more)
