What is a set-top box?
A “set-top box” is a unit that sits on top or near your television. It picks up signals that your television receiver cannot, so you can view channels. There are several different types of set-top boxes. Converter Box: receives and converts an over-the-air digital TV signal to analog, for display on a standard analog television. Some converter boxes have an analog pass-through feature which allows analog signals to pass through as well as digital. This will allow you to begin watching channels that are available in digital before the transition, without losing those that continue to be broadcast in analog. DTV Tuner Box: can be used by an “HDTV/DTV-Ready” television that does not have a built-in tuner to receive over-the-air digital television signals. Digital Cable Box: allows digital cable signals to be transferred onto a television screen. The digital cable box can be bought or rented from a cable service provider, or can be purchased from an electronic retailer. Both analog and dig
Just that – a box of electronics which usually sits on top the television. Familiar to current satellite and cable subscribers, a set-top box is a receiving unit which effectively decodes the sound and picture signal of which ever channel you select using a regular tv remote control. The most basic form of STB will receive free programmes from existing broadcasters, as well as an electronic on-screen programme guide and electronically enhanced Ceefax and Teletext pages with high resolution graphics. Set-top boxes are simple to set up, linking via the aerial socket to the television or VCR unit. Subscription services set-top boxes will require a smart card in order to deliver premium programmes.