Digital TV Definitions
and Standard Terms
Analog Spectrum
A traditional, less-efficient and lower quality system that uses radio frequency (RF) waves to transmit and display pictures and sound.
ATSC Tuner
Often called an ATSC receiver or HDTV tuner, allows reception of digital television (DTV) signals broadcast over-the-air by TV stations. May be integrated into a television, VCR, digital video recorder, or set-top box.
Broadcast Spectrum
The entire range of frequencies used for radio and television transmission.
Broadcasting
Using radio waves to distribute radio or TV programs which are available for reception by the general public.
CECB
Coupon Eligible Converter Box, also known as a Digital Television Converter Box, DTV Converter Box, or Digital TV Converter Box.
Digital
Describes a new, more efficient method of storing, processing and transmitting information through the use of computer code.
Digital Television (DTV)
The umbrella term used for the new broadcasting system that uses computer code to transmit pictures and sounds. DTV includes all types of digital broadcasting, including High and Standard Definition television, datacasting and multicasting.
Digital-to-Analog Converter Box
A stand-alone device that receives and converts digital signals into a format for display on an analog television receiver.
DTV Converter Box
It is an electronic device that converts the free over-the-air or cable digital signal into an analog signal viewable on older "analog" television set.
High-Definition Television (HDTV)
One type of digital television signal that is broadcast at a higher resolution than the others, providing a higher-quality picture.
Multicasting
The ability to transmit multiple standard-definition programs at the same time using a single digital broadcast channel.
Nation Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA)
The President's principal adviser on telecommunications and information policy issues.
NTSC Tuner
A device built-in to a TV that allows reception of analog broadcasting.
Over-the-air
Refers to the transmission and reception of information in a wireless communication system.
Rabbit ears
A V-shaped set-top antenna that is adjustable in length and angle.
Resolution
Amount of detail that can be seen in a broadcast image.
Rooftop antenna
An antenna mounted on the roof of a structure.
Set-top box
A stand-alone device that connects to a television and an external source of signal, turning the signal into content which is then displayed on the television screen.
Standard Definition TV (SDTV)
The basic digital television format closest in quality to traditional analog TV.
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