Cable TV Operators Key Terms

Learn about services and features offered by cable TV operators

By Kristan Hart

Cable TV brings the world to you through a wide variety of programming. With cable television, viewers have access to local channels ABC, NBC, FOX, PBS and CBS, but they also have access to niche programming that only cable can offer, like The Food Network, ESPN and The Weather Channel. Cable TV operators offer a variety of features so you can specialize your cable package to meet your needs. Use cable TV operators key terms to find the service that works best for you.

Cable networks

The biggest advantage of cable television is the cable networks offered by cable TV operators. Cable networks, whcih are channels, essentially, offer specialized niche programming that appeal to a wide range of viewers.
Try: See a listing of cable networks on the Comcast Cable website. You can click on each logo to learn more about that particular network.

Cable TV advertising

The beauty of advertising on cable television is that you get to choose your market. If your target audience is new moms, you can choose to advertise on cable networks that offer programming for young children or babies. If your target audience needs storm shelter supplies, you can advertise on cable networks that specialize in weather. Cable TV advertising is also often less expensive than advertising on your local television network affiliate.
Try: Read about cable TV advertising at Charter Media.

Bundles

Cable TV operators often sell more than just cable television. Many operators also provide phone and Internet service. To promote all of these services, and to consolidate billing, cable TV operators offer bundles - combinations - that include all or some of their available services.
Try: Read about the bundles offered by Time Warner Cable Online.

Business video, commercial cable

Business video, also referred to as commercial cable, allows you to pick and choose the cable TV offering in your office to only offer options that best meet your customers' needs.
Try: Read about the business video services available through Cox Communications for more information.

DVR, digital video recorder

A digital video recorder, known as a DVR for short, is a device that allows you to digitally record your favorite programs. It functions much like a VCR, but there are no videotapes to use and you can easily schedule future recordings of your favorite shows.
Try: Read about cable TV packages that include a DVR through Mediacom.

DMA, designated market area

Even though there are cable companies that offer service in locations across the United States, each office is different. Cable TV providers in these offices serve that local designated market area, or DMA.
Try: Nielsen Media Research explains designated market areas on its website.