In this hectic and fast moving routine life, television and other entertainment media plays an important role in everyday life. The electronic device which transmits signals into a viewable format is called as a set top box.A set top box is a connecting device of an external signal source that displays the content on the television or any other display device. This was used since 1950s in some form. The ancestors of this box have 8 bit game data port; hence, it was known as Nintendo game box. A data port is an interface between the information levels.
As the technology developed there emerged this current set top box. This box functions as media extenders, consoles, and digital media receivers. This signal converter is capable of displaying HD signals and also provides two-way communication between the user and the service provider.
There are many types of set top boxes. They are: a broadcast set top box is capable of providing two-way communication. An enhanced set top box or smart box is a two- way communication box and is capable of providing the Internet browsing on demand. The other one is the advanced set top box. It is considered as a fully integrated box and has some built-in features of a desktop PC. It also provides television and DVR capabilities.
The hybrid digital cable box is a special box that has blue ray playback ability. It is also capable of merging with high-end multimedia signals from the multimedia centers for home. The over the top set top boxes contain videogame consoles, Internet abilities and wireless connectivity.
To set a set top box, we may need the following accessories:
1. Interactive network connection.
2. Network interface to connect STB.
3. A tuner to catch the signals.
4. A Decoder
5. A Buffer
6. The synchronization hardware and soft ware, and
7. Additional software, Middle ware, Platform, and Applications
The future trends
The popular trends are applying smart phone like iPhones to this. The latest trends involve in changing the set top box into Android operating system. This device is moving towards to be an integrator of all entertainment and internet services. This is possible because of its HDMI, USB and other peripheral device features. The future is looking at 3G and 4G options and a sleek model for this device as it can be used as independent home network.
