LAURINBURG — Spectrum Cable’s new policy caused long lines at many of their locations, including Laurinburg.

Spectrum is in the process of transitioning fully to digital, which means customers will no longer be able to access cable television without a digital box.

The all-digital upgrade has already been completed in Laurinburg as of April 3, according to Scott Pryzwansky the regional communications director for Charter Communications.

Spectrum says the all-digital upgrade is about giving customers a best-in-class TV and voice experience, and freeing up network capacity — faster broadband speeds, more High Definition, On Demand content and new features.

“We know the vast majority of Spectrum customers have adopted digital equipment for at least one TV in their home,” Pryzwansky said. “However, many of those customers may have additional TVs that are using analog signals. Those customers will need additional Spectrum receivers for those TVs if they want to continue to watch programming in those rooms.”

Most customers will be eligible for a free digital receiver, for a limited period of time, depending on their package. After the free period — or for any additional boxes beyond the free ones a customer may be eligible for — it’s $6.99 per month for Spectrum and $11.75 per month for legacy Time Warner customers

The move to a digital-only signal means customers can no longer just plug their cable lines directly into their TVs. Customers now need digital receiver boxes, which range in price from $6.99 to $11 a month, depending on DVR capabilities.

For Laurinburg’s Trish Suiter Dooling, the change had her contemplating giving up cable altogether.

“I’ve been wanting to live without television for a while now,” she said in a Facebook post.”I’m looking for evidence in my defense, to convince the guys how much better our lives would be without it. I lived without TV for three years as a teen, when we were stationed overseas. I know the benefits.

According to Pryzwansky, Spectrum customers can receive these digital receivers through free direct shipment to their home by visiting their website or calling 1-844-278-3408 to request a self-installation kit. Customers can also pick up equipment at a nearby Spectrum store.

Customers were alerted about the digital update via paper bill and email.

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Katelin Gandee

Staff reporter