In its filing Friday (Aug. 24), the NCTA did not break any further ground on who might make the Tuner Resolver or offer an estimate on device unit costs.

    Among consumer electronics companies, TiVo has plenty of skin in the cable game, whether it's with CableCARD-based DVRs offered through retail or in partnership with MSOs. Its top-of-the line Series 3 DVR as well as a cheaper HD-DVR introduced in July both house CableCARD slots. TiVo also has DVR software and service deals in place with Comcast and Cox. (See Comcast to Kick Off Boston TiVo Party.)

    The NCTA noted the cable industry "has worked with CE companies such as TiVo" on the "small" Tuner Resolver device, which is also being referred to as a "set-back" device because, as envisioned, it could be installed on the back of a TV set.

    If this optional device is indeed made, NCTA suggested that its licensing and testing would be provided under the existing DFAST (Dynamic Feedback Arrangement Scrambling Technique) agreement. DFAST refers to a copy protection technology originally developed by Motorola Inc. (NYSE: MOT - message board). CableLabs licenses DFAST to consumer electronics companies that make one-way plug-and-play televisions as well as unidirectional CableCARD-capable set-tops and DVRs.