"Cable Ready" TV Tuner Cards

Hi, I have a question that I'm hoping is not too stupid. I'll try to be to the point, and any insights would greatly be appreciated. I recently built a HTPC with a HDHomeRun external tuner card. In short, my HTPC runs Vista Ultimate w WMC, and I have Cox as my cable provider. Also, I'm located in San Diego, CA.

Question relates to the number of channels that I could or should receive through my HTPC. My scan results using HDHomeRun and/or WMC results in only 15 channels, all of which are standard local channels (CBS, ABC, FOX). I regularly receive 700+ channels through my set-top box and approximately 70+ channels with a wall coaxial cable connected directly to my Samsung LNT5271F. The Samsung had to scan the channels just like the HTPC's process.

I understand that there are differences between encrypted/unencrypted channels and between analog and digital cable signals. But why is my Samsung able to receive 70+ channels (including MTV, Discovery, A&E, History) with its built-in tuner while my HDHomeRun can barely receive 15 channels? I know that HDHomeRun only picks up digital channels, but there's still a big difference between the number of channels that I'm able to receive.

In essence, what's the main difference between a high-end PC Tuner Card and a built-in cable ready TV tuner (in this case, the built-in tuner that came with the 5271F)? Is there anything that I could buy in order for my HTPC to capture more channels (i.e. Hauppauge 1600/1800?)?

I would contact Cox and find out just which channels are broadcast NTSC and which channels are broadcast ATSC. It seems weird that you're missing 55+ (apparently NTSC channels), but that's all I can think of off the top of my head.

I read an article from July 06 that stated Vista previously needed an analog tuner in order to pick up HD channels, but again, that was from 2006 and I assume it's since been resolved (unless you're running some sort of Vista beta still).

-Wolf sends

i've been trying to get my new build up and running for tv as well and comcast in minnesota sounds similar. my understanding from dealing with them is that you have a monthly increase on your bill to get the hd channels, but you also need a second hd set top box. i don't know if you can just have the hd set top box instead of the regular box or how that works. we have a regular 27" tube tv we've always used that we'd like to continue to get regular broadcasts on but get hdtv for the new pc build.

not sure i added more information than my own questions, but as was stated, i think you have to pay extra for hd and pay extra for an hd box with comcast.