Cox IPG Data and Software?

[DoubleDAZ]

In another thread over on AVS (I posted there too) there is a bit of discussion about how Tivo (and presummably the Tivo-HD) is so much better than the SA8000HD. Most of the discussion seems to center on the IPG data and software vs any specific problem with the 8000HD hardware itself.

All this has promtped me to wonder where cablecos get their IPG data and the software to access it. I was told recently that TWC (in South Carolina at least) uses a third party, but I don't know if that is for the data, the software, or both. I was also told it will be changing soon, though no specifics were provided.

My main concern is Cox Cable in Phoenix, but I assume most comments would apply to either all cablecos or all Cox markets or all Cox markets that use S-A equipment. I'd like to know who develops the IPG (data and software) and if any of this is going to enable the 8000HD, etc., to add more Tivo-like functionality in the near future. I'd also like to know how the S-A software interfaces with the IPG. Anyone?

[57U]

Rogers gets their IPG data via a 3rd party. I'm not sure who develops the IPG software.

I believe that the issue with some of the "functionality" that TiVo has, may be due to copyright issues. For example, TiVo may have the rights to items like "Season's pass" and the other software writers either need to pay a royalty, which they may not want to do, find a workaround, or simply do without.

[mikehbkwm]

cox in tulsa uses a Pioneer IPG and heres the problem. the Motorola 6208.. we are a motorola system only.... anyway the 6208 only works correctly with the old TV Guide IPG which we do not use anymore, now we could make the pioneer guide work with the 6208 but then we could get sued by TV Guide etc.... man just wish there was some kinda standard here...