New Tivo Premier setup

I've been holding on to a new Premier I purchased at Wamart a couple of months ago, and now I'm ready to replace my old Tivo HD. What can I expect as far as installation? It's been a few years since I activated my TivoHD, and I remember alot of people had problems with pairing cablecards. I'm assuming the cable techs have worked out all the kinks by now, and know what they're doing? Back then it was kind of "hit and miss" as far as getting the tech that actually knew what he was doing(I got lucky-mine did).

Also, my Premier came without a cablecard so I assume I need to call Tivo right? Or do the cable companies have these by now? Any input is appreciated.