Cable TV Key Terms

Tune in to these cable TV key terms

By Adah Chung

Today, there are a variety of ways in which channels are broadcast to television. Satellite TV, where television signals are broadcast via satellite, and cable TV have become the two main methods of television transmission. As the technology and media industries continues to come up with innovations, they allow cable television to make advances in the delivery of television channels and provide for more variety in the number of channels available. Here are some terms related to cable television to help you navigate the advances in cable TV.

Cable TV, CATV

Cable TV is television programming delivered via coaxial cables. It is often referred to as community access television, as television programs are delivered through a community antenna through cables into many homes.
Try: PCMag.com provides a definition of cable TV.

Digital TV, DTV

Digital TV is a broadcast method that allows for better picture quality and replaces the analog method of broadcasting TV signals. Digital TV can be seen using either cable TV or satellite TV. Digital TV can come in HD (high definition) and SD (standard definition).
Try: DTV.gov provides an in-depth definition of DTV, its benefits and a chart comparison of analog and DTV.

High definition TV, HDTV

High definition TV is a form of digital TV that broadcasts picture at a higher quality and resolution in a widescreen format. It requires a TV that can display high definition TV as well as a tuner that can convert the TV signal into a high definition picture.
Try: A Crutchfield article on HDTV provides detailed information on this.

Cable TV bundles

Due to the many other functions that cable can bring to a home or business, cable TV is often bundled with other services such as Internet and phone. Cable TV bundles allow you to use cable for TV, Internet and phone in a bundled price package.
Try: Cable TV Family provides an article about cable TV bundles; scroll down the page.

Federal Communications Commission, FCC

The Federal Communications Commission is a government agency that oversees and regulates communications by radio and television (satellite and cable). The commission sets standards and regulations for the transmission of programs and cable and satellite services.
Try: For more information, visit the FCC.

Video on demand, VoD

Video on demand refers to the ability to order a television program through your cable service at your convenience. Select television programs are usually stored as a library for you to download and watch or programs can be streamed live when you order it, such as pay-per-view.
Try: Wise Geek provides more details about video on demand.