ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on cable technology. Cable technology includes an array of new and developing techniques and devices that together make up what is often referred to as the "communications revolution." As an industry, cable television must answer to many legal and regulatory masters, and as a result it is often subject to none. Running cable is an increasingly costly proposition, particularly for remaining franchise areas that encompass rural districts with low population density. When cable services are publicly owned, some sticky legal and constitutional questions arise. The possibility of industry censorship is particularly troubling on public-access stations, which almost all cable operators include in the franchise package. During the franchising stage of cable deployment, potential customers often raise charges of unconstitutional discrimination. Because of the expense and financial risk involved in laying cable, particularly in rural areas, regions with low population density are the last to be approached by cable operators for franchise rights.
