i got this from the straits times forum.
As a cable television monopoly in Singapore, Starhub Cable Vision
(SCV) certainly knows how to exploit this to squeeze every dollar
from its customers.
SCV's set-top box should be free for subscribers
In a bid to replace the analogue set-top boxes with digital set-top
boxes, itself a long-overdue exercise, SCV now imposes a $2 rental
charge on its analogue set.
The digital set don't come free either. It is charged at $4.
The set-top box is an essential device to tune in to SCV cable
programmes. It is not an optional device where a SCV customer can
choose whether or not to take it from SCV, or purchase one from the
electronics market.
The set-top box is therefore an essential component of the SCV's
customer service package. It's like a hotel room without water
supply. It simply doesn't make sense if customers are charged for
the use of water.
SCV set-top boxes should not be charged at any price. It should be
free!
