good cable channels

I while back I had digital cable with about 300 channels available. Many if not most of the channels were informational/cultural. I really think tv has become worth watching and legitamely educational with these new channels. My favorites are first and formost the speed channel. I could really become a homebody with the enormous wealth of current technology and history on that channel. Techtv is ok but can be a bit cornball with some of the people they have hosting their programs. Theres others I could mention, but Id like to know what you think and whats available where you live.