GB 29
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Access
Authorisation to use the coding system to purchase /
order TV programmes.
Audio system
With digital satellite reception, the sound is transmitted
in packages and is selected either in a special audio mode
or pre-selected by using the installation set-up. This
makes it possible to select between several different lan-
guages in a film. The number of choices is dependent on
what is available in the signal.
CA
Conditional Access. A system to control subscriber ac-
cess to services, programmes and events.
CA module
A device for the decoding of scrambled signals.
Common Interface
Describes a DVB standard hardware and software archi-
tecture for Conditional Access systems.
DVB
The Digital Video Broadcast group was created to estab-
lish a technical framework for the introduction of digital
video broadcasting systems.
EPG
Electronic Programme Guide. A software that enables
viewers to navigate easily among the large number of
channels provided by digital technology, in order to se-
lect the service they desire.
Mediamaster
A unit that converts the digital terristrial signals into au-
dio and video signals. The audio and video signal can be
sent to the TV set either via SCART or via RF (modulator
output).
MHz
The prefix mega means million, and Hertz means cycles
per second.
MPEG
Moving Picture Experts Group. Body established by the
International Standards Organisation to provide the ba-
sis for a picture coding and compression system.
Network
A number of digital channels transmitted from one
source. Grouped under separate headings in the channel
list.
OFDM
Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing.
Modulation method used in digital terrestrial networks in
Europe.
PCMCIA
Personal Computer Memory Card International Associa-
tion. The Common Interface slot follows this standard.
Parental control
A feature that allows parents to "lock" programmes that
they consider unsuitable for children. A "locked" channel or
programme can only be "unlocked" with the special paren-
tal access code.
Parental Access code
A four-digit code stored in the Mediamaster. Used to lock
the Mediamaster.
PIN code
Personal Identification Number. A four-digit code stored in
the Smartcard. For PPV (Pay Per View) or other services
together with the subscription.
PPV
Pay Per View. Booking TV programmes in advance by
calling up your Service Provider.
RF
Radio frequency (known as HF in some countries).
SERIAL RS 232
A serial communication standard data port.
SCART
A 21-pin connector used for connection of the
Mediamaster,VCR and TV. Also named Euroconnector or
Peritel connector.
Scrambled satellite TV programme
Some satellite TV programmes are transmitted in scram-
bled form. A Smartcard, and possibly a CA module, will be
needed to view such programmes.
Service provider
Is a company that collects a number of programms/serv-
ices and distributes them to customers.
S/PDIF
Sony/Philips digital interface format. Digital audio output.
SW
Software. Programme code.
VCR
Video Cassette Recorder.