Executive Summary (This is a document excerpt)

Cablevision Systems recently announced that it is testing a new service called "RS-DVR" — remote storage DVR — that records programs at the cable head-end, rather than with a DVR box in the subscriber's home. This "diskless DVR" (some call it network DVR) exactly duplicates the functions of a real DVR, including pausing live TV, recording shows, and making it easy to skip commercials. While Cablevision will surely be sued for copyright infringement by TV networks, the service is functionally equivalent to current DVRs and should therefore be legal. If RS-DVR can clear the lawsuit hurdle, cable will have an inexpensive service that satellite can't match, boosting digital cable signups.