I recently discovered, much to my annoyance, that I don't actually need one. I was told I did when I signed up so I used it.
When they recently raised the rate by another $2 (to improve their fantaboulous service!) I found out that not only do I get more channels, a better signal but can go back to using my tv remote and it's extra features, when I hook direclty to the tv.
I'm told by a service rep that I must pay for the adapter and can't return it. What exactly is their definition of "need"? Or am I missing somehting. I guess I *need* it so they can justify charging me an extra $8 a month.