Guide to Cable TV Operators

In the beginning, rooftop antennas captured a television signal out of the air and delivered it to your TV set. Then came a revolution. Cable service operators began delivering crisp, clear images to TVs using cables strung from telephone poles.

Now the industry has grown into a network of cable television operators that can deliver hundreds of local and national television stations into your living room.

We benefit from this in several ways.

1. TV programming becomes localized to specific communities, delivering events and other local access depending upon your local cable operator.
2. Small businesses are given the opportunity to advertise on major cable networks.
3. Cable service can be bundled with low-cost Internet and telephone service.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Contact your local cable service operator

Cable television operators maintain local offices in every community where cable services are offered.

I recommend: Major cable TV operators localize their operations by opening small offices in every coverage area. The top four cable operators include Comcast, Cox, Charter and Time-Warner. A visit to their websites can give an idea of how your advertising can be geared toward specific audiences.

Gear the TV stations toward your customers

Cable TV operators can set up cable TV service for your business or waiting rooms so you will only receive programming geared toward your industry.

I recommend: Check the business services listing on your cable TV operator's website, or call them to gear TV programming toward your customers. A few of the companies offering this service include Cablevision, Charter, Comcast, and Cox.

Bundle it

Combine TV, Internet and telephone services to get a package price that is often cheaper than ordering them separately. Bundling cable services is a great way to save money and have one company handle all of your communications. For more information, contact your local cable TV provider.

I recommend: All of the major providers, including Comcast, Cox, Charter and Time-Warner, offer bundles to business and residential customers.

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Pick the right networks to maximize your advertising dollar. For instance advertise on the Do It Yourself Network (DIY) or the Home and Garden Network if you're selling lumber or tools.
• Check for special introductory prices for advertising and bundles.
• See if you can get a better rate if you sign a long-term contract or agree to spots on several stations.
• Consider producing your own show on the public access stations made available by cable providers. Cable operators are always looking for new ideas, and the show could be relevant to your business.

The official source of Cable TV Operators is the Cable TV Operators page at Business.com