FAQ

Q: What is Public Access TV?
A: Public Access TV is an alternative system of television created to provide a free-speech forum, open to all on a first-come, first-served basis without discrimination or favoritism based on content. Additionally, Public Access TV offers its community low-cost or free access to media education, video equipment and production facilities.

Q: Where can I watch CMNtv?
A: CMNtv can be seen on Comcast and WOW! Cable Television and Online.

TELEVISION
Watch CMNtv on Comcast Channel 18 and WOW! Channel 18
in the following 11 Southeast Oakland County, Michigan Communities:

    Auburn Hills
    Berkley
    Clawson
    Ferndale
    Huntington Woods
    Oakland Township
    Pleasant Ridge
    Rochester
    Rochester Hills
    Royal Oak
    Troy

ONLINE
Watch CMNtv Streaming Online 24/7 at CMNtv.org/watch.

Select CMNtv-Produced Video may be viewed online in our Video On Demand Section
and on our CMNtv YouTube Page.

Q: Am I Resident Member or Non-Resident Member?
A: Resident Members and Resident Non-Profit Members are those whose mailing address or headquarters is physically located within one of our communities that currently provides us funding.

CMNtv Funding Communities as of January 2011:

    Auburn Hills
    Berkley
    Oakland Township
    Rochester
    Royal Oak
    Troy

Non-Resident Members and Non-Resident Non-Profits are those with a mailing address or headquarters physically located anywhere outside of the communities listed above.

Q: What kind of Programming does CMNtv play on its channel?
A: The kind of programs that YOU find interesting! We do not try to influence or request any particular type, style or theme of programming from producers. It’s totally up to you.


Q: Are there any restrictions on programming?
A: CMNtv has only two programming restrictions:

    1) No Commercial Programming
    2) No Obscene Programming

For full explanation of these restrictions please see
CMNtv’s Policies and Procedures Document.

Q: Do I need previous experience in Television Production?
A: No. Most producers are trained right here at CMNtv in our ten-week Production Certification Series Class. In fact, even if you have prior experience, you’ll probably need to take the classes to get up to date on CMNtv’s equipment.

Q: Can I air a show that I did not produce?
A: No. CMN requires the producer to hand deliver programs submitted for playback. Every producer will be required to complete a “Playback Request Form” which states that you have obtained permission from talent and any applicable copyright holders. This document states that you are legally responsible for the program.

Q: What recording formats do you use?
A: CMNtv supports MiniDV and DVCAM for acquisition and editing. Only Panasonic DV tapes are permitted in the field cameras and edit decks. Programs submitted for playback are required to be on DVD and may be created on a CMNtv edit station, on our dubbing tower, or elsewhere. Blank DVD and tape media can be provided by CMNtv for a fee.

Q: How many shows can one producer air?
A: We limit producers to no more than 2.5 hours of programming per week. Obviously, the number of available time slots for programs are limited, and since each producer deserves an opportunity to air at least one show, it may take longer to gain a time slot for multiple programs than for just one. It depends on the supply of “open” time versus the supply of programs.

Q: How long will my show air?
A: To a certain extent, it depends on the producer’s request. Some prefer only one play, others want their show to run longer. CMNtv Policies & Procedures states that any program may be removed from playback after one airing. In order to keep the channel fresh and to give everyone a chance at various time-slots, CMNtv likes to rotate programming (inserting new shows) as often as the supply of new shows allow.

Q: How many people watch CMNtv?
A: CMNtv runs on two cable franchises (WOW! and Comcast) that are connected to roughly 140,000 homes in Oakland County (CMNtv is on cable systems in the following communities: Auburn Hills, Berkley, Clawson, Ferndale, Huntington Woods, Oakland Township, Pleasant Ridge, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, and Troy).

Q: Can you make money on Public Access TV?
A: No. Public Access TV is non-commercial, and programs that directly advertise products for sale are not permitted.


Q: Can I rent equipment from CMNtv for commercial jobs?
A: No. CMN’s equipment can only be used to produce Public Access programming. Violators of this rule may have their CMNtv membership suspended or revoked.

Q: I don’t get it. What’s in this for CMNtv?
A: We do this to help build community and to give people a voice that can be heard. We enjoy helping people through artistic or technical challenges, and find satisfaction in seeing them reach their goals. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation, funded through cable company revenues directed to us by the communities we serve. The user fees and dues account for a very small percentage of our annual budget. CMNtv is grateful to receive financial or material donations, which may be tax-deductible.