• by Jane Clarke , January 20, 2011

CIMM's Set-Top-Box Data Lexicon contains over 850 terms and definitions associated with Set-Top-Box data, measurement and procurement. This reference guide was designed to create a common language of terms and definitions for the Set-Top Box data space and is an important step in expanding the understanding and ultimate adoption of Set-Top Box data as an accepted industry measurement. The CIMM Word-A-Week column, culled from the Lexicon, is designed to help implement a common language for Set-Top-Box data that will ideally expedite the data usage in the industry.

Last week we began with defining Set-Top Box, which is not as simple a task as it sounds. Generically, these boxes span the range from Analog (those that can only deliver data in one direction which is to the box) and Digital  (those that have the ability to deliver data in two directions, which is to and from the box).  Because they have the ability to deliver data back from the box, it is only the Digital Set-Top Boxes that can provide Set-Top-Box data.

Digital Set-Top Boxes vary in level of sophistication, which can impact the amount and quality of data the box can deliver back to the source Here are the ranges of STB types and their definitions:

Advanced Set-Top Boxes 

See also: All-In-One Set-Top Box, Digital Set-Top Box, Enhanced Set-Top Box, Integrated Set-Top Box, Set-Top Box

CIMM DEFINITION : Set-Top Boxes  that are considered "fully integrated" with good processors, ample memory and optional large hard drives. These boxes have more advanced features and are more likely to be integrated with such services as DVRs, high-speed internet access, interactive TV, digital video recording and gaming. (Source: itvdictionary.com)

NOTE - These boxes may or may not have connected back paths. This should be noted; only satellite has digital STBs that are often not connected to upstream paths. (Source: TRA)

Advanced Digital Set-Top Boxes

See also: Set-Top Box

CIMM DEFINITION : Same as Advanced Set-Top Boxes Definition currently under review by CableLabs.

All-In-One Set-Top Box

See also: Advanced Set-Top Box, Digital Set-Top Box, Enhanced Set-Top Box, Integrated Set-Top Box, Set-Top Box

CIMM DEFINITION : Set-Top Boxes that have more advanced features and are more likely to be integrated with such services as DVRs, high-speed internet access, interactive TV, digital video recording and gaming. Definition currently under review by CableLabs.

Enhanced TV Set-Top Boxes 

See also: Advanced Set-Top Box, Digital Set-Top Box, All-In-One Set-Top Box, Integrated Set-Top Box, Set-Top Box

CIMM DEFINITION : Another name for an Advanced Set-Top Box. These boxes all have backchannel return path as well as online and VOD capabilities. Definition currently under review by CableLabs.

Media Center Set-Top Box

See also: Set-Top Box

CIMM DEFINITION : The ability to link up the Set-Top Box to the computer so content can be viewed on the computer instead of via the television set.

2. Typically refers to devices such as the Media Center PC, Xbox 360 or PS3 that have the capability to provide linear TV services in conjunction with other forms of media entertainment such as music, video games, internet browsing, streaming videos (aka Netflix), etc. (Source: Rentrak)

3 : Media Center PC: a personal computer with a tuner and video card that allows the user to view Linear TV and often has a PVR to record programs as well. (Source: TIVO)

Please refer to the CIMM Lexicon online at http://www.cimm-us.org/lexicon.htm for the full range of secondary-sourced definitions to these terms.