How do I get my TiVo DVR to update on the Internet?

Will Tivo work without actually subscribing to cable TV Service? Please read!?

• I hope this makes sense. I'm trying to cut my monthly expenses due to tough times. Here's the deal, I currently subscribe to basic cable channels 2-21 and my buddy did something to it where I get (expanded cable) channels 22-77 for free. I also have a DVR box that cost me @$20 a month along with internet & telephone all through the cable company. My bill is @$100 a month ,but what I'm wanting to do is cancel everything except the internet and buy a Tivo Box and then my buddy tells me that he can then fix the cable to where I get all 77 channels for free. I would then just have only an internet bill cause I'm planing to get a Magic Jack for my telphone service and use my cell phone also. My question is will I be able to (for lack of a better term) "steal" cable TV with a Tivo box without the cable company knowing sense I won't be using any of their equipment anymore? Does that make sense what I'm asking? Please help me if you can cause I can't afford all these bills I got now but also can't live without my cable TV or DVR service.

• Answer:

  Some Tivos can accept public transmissions (local), cable and satellite. Newer Tivos come with CableCARD slots to basicly make your Tivo a cable box instead of using a seperate cable box. This must be registered with the cable company but since you are not using their equipment they won't bill you for a cable box. Tivo Series 2 has the ability to have 2 CableCARDs and become a dual tuner (watch one show and record another). Your friend may get you into trouble if a technician ever checks the distribution hub. Cable TV viewing requires a higher signal strength than internet only. Keep in mind that buying a Tivo is going to cost you a substantial amount. $99 - $299 for the Tivo and $12/month for service or $399 for Lifetime subscription service. It takes nearly 4.5 years to recoup the Lifetime subscription cost versus monthly service.