The ability to record or copy programming is categorized under specific copy protection specifications regulated by the FCC and set by the content providers.
In general, over-the-air or local broadcast programs should be set to copy freely, and allow you to make another copy for your pc or mobile device. Other subscription-based programming and premium channels may allow copying to your DVR, but might not be available to make extra copies. Additionally, PPV movies and events may be DVR recordable, but have a timeframe to view before it expires.
The copy protection on channels usually varies from provider to provider.
