Platforms and Delivery Mechanisms
Advanced interactive TV departments produces additional content viewed on the viewers TV screen regardless of the delivery mechanism. In many parts of the world present there are four main ways to deliver this content:
* Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT)
* Digital Satellite Television (DSat)
* Digital Cable (DCable) – Broadband internet
* Digital Subscriber Line (xDSL) – Broadband internet
Each of the above delivery mechanisms uses a Set-top-box (STB) to display the interactive content on the viewers TV screen or a converter to put the PC screen on the TV. By 2005 in the USA over half of the TV audience, 50 million viewers will have this capability. There will be many other devices though that enhance the experience.
* Personal Digital Recorders (PVR), Digital Video Recorders
* Mobile Devices
* Games Consoles
The above platforms will allow broadcasters to have a one to one connection with the viewer. This will allow them to target and personalise services to the individual users as well as receiving data back on viewing habits.