What's the difference between iptv set-top boxes and ordinary cable set-top boxes?

The difference between iptv set-top box and ordinary wired set-top box lies in concept, function and playing platform.

1, with different concepts:

IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) is a system that uses broadband as a medium to send TV information, so as to provide users with digital TV services through Internet protocols over broadband. Due to the need to use the Internet, IPTV service providers usually provide related services, such as connecting to the Internet and IP phones.

Network set-top box technology is the key technical equipment in information home appliances. The function of set-top box has jumped from a multi-frequency tuner and decoder to a control terminal for a large number of online databases such as movies, multimedia events and news.

2. Different functions:

IPTV is actually a form of watching programs on broadband network through TV. But in China, IPTV stands out obviously because of its unique operation mode. Domestic IPTV operators are all telecom operators (Telecom, China Unicom, etc. ), a telecom value-added service led by telecom operators, watches private network video programs through home broadband. ?

The network set-top box can indicate the status of indoor equipment, cable TV network and program resources of users; You can use the user's TV screen to display messages and menus sent by service companies and information providers.

3. Different playback platforms:

IPTV is controlled by telecom operators. Users cannot install and use IPTV independently. They need to pay value-added service fees to telecom operators to receive content. Compared with traditional cable TV, it only replaces the channel of cable TV line with broadband network line to receive signals. The object of paying TV service fee has changed from cable radio and television bureau to telecom operator.

The network set-top box can access the Internet through network cable or wireless WIFI, and realize the functions of web browsing, video and movie playing, online QQ chat, game entertainment, online movie and television on TV. It can control TV programs according to its own preferences, and can also install applications at will.

Extended data:

Set-top box can convert the compressed digital signal into TV content and display it on TV. Signals can come from cables, satellite antennas, broadband networks and terrestrial broadcasts.

In addition to images and sounds that can be provided by analog TV, the set-top box also receives digital content, including electronic program guides, Internet pages, subtitles, etc. Users can watch digital TV programs on existing TV sets and conduct interactive digital entertainment, education and business activities through the network.

Each module of the set-top box works together in the high-speed access of the Internet. The user first requests a URL by sending a command. During the transaction using PPP point-to-point protocol, the command finally reaches the modem rack of the Internet service provider.

Then, through dynamic allocation, the user obtains the IP address used in this transaction and sends a request to the Internet. When the Internet content is found, it is sent to the Internet Service Provider (ISP), and then the router of the ISP is responsible for sending it to the cable TV network and finally returning it to the user's set-top box.

References:

Baidu encyclopedia-set top box

Baidu encyclopedia -iptv