• by Jane Clarke , February 24, 2011

CIMM's Set-Top Box Data Lexicon is a compilation of terms and definitions associated with Set-Top Box data and its measurement. This Word-A-Week column highlights a term and definition from the CIMM Lexicon every week. It is our hope that this will help in creating a common language for Set-Top Box data usage and help expedite the roll-out of the data for its many industry applications. 

One would think that something as ubiquitous as a Remote would have a simple definition. However it is not as simple as it would first appear. While there are several industry definitions for a Remote Control (indicting a hardware device), there are other terms related to Remotes that are data-specific.  

Data that is captured in the remote has value in that it can possibly help to solve a vexing Set-Top Box data challenge such as when the TV set is off and the STB is still on. But some types of remotes do not store data and still others create gaps in the data that make it more difficult to match to viewing data from the box itself. New technological advances such as apps that make a smartphone or a tablet computer into a remote may help to revolutionize the remote's clickstream data capture and ultimate utilization in measurement. 

Here are terms and definitions related to remotes:

Remote Clicks

See also: Remote

CIMM DEFINITION : Also referred to as remote key presses, the action of pressing keys or buttons on the remote as part of the viewer usage whether to change a channel, use the DVR, turn the set or box on or off, etc. "Clicks" are often captured by the service provider to execute transactions (e.g., deliver Video On-Demand), to change channels or measure channel usage.

2 : "The number of STB exposures in which the user interacted with an AdWidget via clicking at least one key on the Remote Control. Also called Total Remote Clicks." (Source: FourthWall Media) 

3 : "A metric measuring engagement with interactive content or advertising enhancements." (Source: FourthWall Media) 

Remote (Remote Control)

CIMM DEFINITION : A separate hand held device that is electronically connected to media equipment to help control utilization preferences (such as channel choice) from a certain distance.

2 : A device which issues commands to any other device (TV, STB, Stereo etc) enabling the user to control functionality from a distance. (Source: Nielsen)

Remote Key Presses

See also: Remote Clicks

CIMM DEFINITION : Also referred to as Remote Clicks, the action of pressing keys or buttons on the remote as part of the viewer usage whether to change a channel, use the DVR, turn the set or box on or off, etc. "Clicks" are often captured by the service provider to execute transactions (e.g., deliver Video On-Demand), to change channels or measure channel usage.

Please refer to the CIMM Lexicon online at http://www.cimm-us.org/lexicon.htm for additional information on these and other terms.