Description of copy protection support for recorded cable TV content in Windows Vista

This article describes the recording restrictions for broadcast content from the following premium cable channels:

• HBO
• Cinemax
• Showtime
• Starz

Windows Vista supports Content Generation Management System for Analog (CGMS-A) content protection. The premium cable channels that use this form of copy protection are listed in the "Introduction" section.

Windows Vista supports the following CGMS-A content protection standards for recorded broadcast content.

"Copy Once" content

You can play Copy Once content on the originating computer without restriction. Additionally, Copy Once content does not expire. However, you cannot copy the recorded broadcast content to another computer.

"Copy Never" content

You cannot copy Copy Never content. This content expires seven days after you record the broadcast content.

For more information about the HBO policy on recording broadcast content, visit the following HBO Web site: Microsoft provides third-party contact information to help you find technical support. This contact information may change without notice. Microsoft does not guarantee the accuracy of this third-party contact information. The third-party products that this article discusses are manufactured by companies that are independent of Microsoft. Microsoft makes no warranty, implied or otherwise, about the performance or reliability of these products.