This FAQ includes answers to only the most requested questions. If you have a question that isn't on the list, type in your question to Ask Me on the right of the page, or try searching for it with Google on the top-right corner of the page.
Cable TV
What kind of Cable TV services can I get at UBC?
Cable TV for students living in residence is included in residence fees, so there is no need to apply or register. The UBC Cable TV service offers 59 channels (channels 2 to 59). Most cable outlets in residences can be used immediately – just connect your TV.
If you're having problems with your residence cable access, please contact the front desk of your residence building.
How do I get more channels for Cable TV?
Contact Shaw Cable for enhanced services beyond channel 59.
Is there a setup fee for Cable TV?
There is no setup fee for Cable TV as the outlets are on all the time – just connect your TV. However, if you want new cables installed, there is an installation fee.
For more information on cable installation fees:
- Students: Contact the front desk of your residence building
- Staff or faculty members: Contact the UBC Information Technology Network Operations Centre (NOC) at 604.822.1380, or email noc@ubc.ca.
Where is UBC Cable TV available?
UBC Cable TV is available throughout the UBC Vancouver campus and in all UBC residences. It is also available in many administrative buildings at UBC.
Why can I only get up to channel 13?
If you're only getting 13 channels on your TV, you may have your TV or VCR set to receive channels as if it were connected to an antenna. To receive all available channels, you'll need to change the Receiver Mode setting on your TV or VCR from Ant to CATV or CABLE.
Digital and High-Definition TV
How do I order digital TV?
To order digital TV, HDTV, Pay Per View, or Video on Demand, contact Shaw directly at 604-310-SHAW. (Please note that you must quote your building's actual address, and not UBC building name, in order to be recognized as one of Shaw's serviceable areas).
Shaw says my building is not within their area of service. What do I do?
In order to be recognized as one of Shaw's serviceable area, you will need to quote your building's actual address (not UBC building name). As UBC is a new serviceable area for Shaw, you may need to inform the representative that the UBC campus is now covered if he or she is unaware.
Who is eligible to order digital TV?
Anyone who has cable TV through UBC is eligible to order the digital services provided by Shaw. To order, simply call 310-SHAW and open an account with Shaw for billing.
What is the cost? Are there special rates for UBC?
As Cable TV is included as part of your housing rent, when you subscribe to additional digital services from Shaw you will only be charged for those additional services (subtract the cost of Shaw Classic Cable from the service you are interested in). The same applies to departments that already subscribe to basic cable through UBC IT.
Who do I contact if I am having problems with my TV reception?
- Students: Contact the front desk of your residence building
- Staff or faculty members: Contact the UBC Information Technology Network Operations Centre (NOC) at 604.822.1380, or email noc@ubc.ca.
