The cable TV box that sits on "top" of the TV "set," although it is often located several feet away in an equipment rack. The set-top box descrambles the premium channels and provides a tuner for the higher cable numbers that very old TVs did not support. Originally only for analog TV signals, set-top boxes have become widely used for digital services that offer an on-screen program guide. Digital set-top boxes that provide high-definition TV (HDTV) are the latest version.
With satellite TV, a device similar to the set-top box decodes signals for viewing. However, although some call it a "satellite set-top box," it is officially known as a "satellite TV receiver."
Built-In DVR
Some digital set-top boxes have a built-in hard drive for recording programs. The advantage of having a combination set-top box and digital video recorder (DVR) is the integrated, on-screen program guide. The familiar interface for selecting channels is also used for recording. See DVR.
Internet Access
Although the cable itself supports TV and Internet transmission, the traditional set-top box does not provide Internet access. Where it enters the house, the cable is divided into two using a small, passive device called a "splitter." One line goes to the set-top box, and the other is fed to the cable modem. See hybrid set-top box and cable modem.
With satellite TV, a device similar to the set-top box decodes signals for viewing. However, although some call it a "satellite set-top box," it is officially known as a "satellite TV receiver."
Built-In DVR
Some digital set-top boxes have a built-in hard drive for recording programs. The advantage of having a combination set-top box and digital video recorder (DVR) is the integrated, on-screen program guide. The familiar interface for selecting channels is also used for recording. See DVR.
Internet Access
Although the cable itself supports TV and Internet transmission, the traditional set-top box does not provide Internet access. Where it enters the house, the cable is divided into two using a small, passive device called a "splitter." One line goes to the set-top box, and the other is fed to the cable modem. See hybrid set-top box and cable modem.
 | Reproduced with permission from Computer Desktop Encyclopedia. Copyright (c) 1981-2008 The Computer Language Company Inc. All rights reserved. |
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