(a)(1) A multichannel video programming distributor that utilizes navigation devices to perform conditional access functions shall make available equipment that incorporates only the conditional access functions of such devices. Commencing on July 1, 2007, no multichannel video programming distributor subject to this section shall place in service new navigation devices for sale, lease, or use that perform both conditional access and other functions in a single integrated device.
(1) A multichannel video programming distributor that utilizes navigation devices to perform conditional access functions shall make available equipment that incorporates only the conditional access functions of such devices. Commencing on July 1, 2007, no multichannel video programming distributor subject to this section shall place in service new navigation devices for sale, lease, or use that perform both conditional access and other functions in a single integrated device.
(2) The foregoing requirement shall not apply:
(i) With respect to unidirectional navigation devices without recording functionality; or
(ii) To a multichannel video programming distributor that supports the active use by subscribers of navigation devices that:
(A) Operate throughout the continental United States, and
(B) Are available from retail outlets and other vendors throughout the United States that are not affiliated with the owner or operator of the multichannel video programming system.
(b) Conditional access function equipment made available pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of this section shall be designed to connect to and function with other navigation devices available through the use of a commonly used interface or an interface that conforms to appropriate technical standards promulgated by a national standards organization.
(c) No multichannel video programming distributor shall by contract, agreement, patent, intellectual property right or otherwise preclude the addition of features or functions to the equipment made available pursuant to this section that are not designed, intended or function to defeat the conditional access controls of such devices or to provide unauthorized access to service.
(d) Notwithstanding the foregoing, navigation devices need not be made available pursuant to this section where:
(1) It is not reasonably feasible to prevent such devices from being used for the unauthorized reception of service; or
(2) It is not reasonably feasible to separate conditional access from other functions without jeopardizing security.
(e) The requirements of this section shall become applicable on July 1, 2000.
(f) Paragraphs (a)(1), (b), and (c) of this section shall not apply to the provision of any navigation device that:
(1) Employs conditional access mechanisms only to access analog video programming;
(2) Is capable only of providing access to analog video programming offered over a multichannel video programming distribution system; and
(3) Does not provide access to any digital transmission of multichannel video programming or any other digital service through any receiving, decoding, conditional access, or other function, including any conversion of digital programming or service to an analog format. [63 FR 38095, July 15, 1998, as amended at 64 FR 29600, June 2, 1999; 68 FR 35822, June 17, 2003; 70 FR 36052, June 22, 2005; 76 FR 40279, July 8, 2011]