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Broadband in Television, Video and Show Recording: HDTV, IPTV and VOD

Broadband has become synonymous with always-on Internet connections and digital high-definition television (HDTV). HDTV is high-resolution digital television (DTV), the highest DTV resolution in the new set of standards. HDTV requires new production and transmission equipment at the HDTV stations, as well as new equipment for reception by the consumer. It also describes the digital technologies that provide consumers with integrated access to voice, high-speed data services, video-on-demand (VOD), and interactive delivery services.

The advantages of broadband include speed enhanced picture quality, reliable transmission, and convenience. The convenience covers both television and computer use in the sense that the always-on digital connection allows for video-on-demand and real-time interactions that were not possible or severely limited in either media.

Video-on-Demand (VOD) Applications

Video-on-demand applications, such as TiVo™, allow viewers to digitally record programs for viewing at a later time. This makes television viewing more convenient by permitting the viewer to watch virtually whatever, whenever from the comfort of home. This technology operates through connecting the television set to the source (a set top box, also known as digital video recorders or DVRs) and recording to a hard drive. In addition to recording shows, other options for video-on-demand include searching for upcoming features and control over live television.

Internet Protocol Television (IPTV)

Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) is a comprehensive network video streaming process that delivers TV-quality video programming to desktop PCs by leveraging IP/TV software and IP/TV servers.

IPTV uses a two-way digital broadcast signal (sent through a switched telephone or cable network by way of a broadband Internet connection and a set top box programmed with software (much like a cable or DSS box) that can handle viewer requests to access many available media sources. The viewer's TV connects to a set top box (STB) that decodes the IP video and converts it into standard television signals. The STB is the gateway to an IP video switching system. The Switched Video Service (SVS) system allows viewers to access broadcast network channels, subscription services, and movies on demand. The consumer can access different media by using the television remote to send control commands to the SVS. The unit processes the request and displays the requested media type. Though there are many possible media sources, only one video channel is needed for the process.

IPTV is an emerging technology and should evolve into a completely interactive experience in the future!