Data Structure
Networking
RDBMS
Operating System
Java
MS Excel
iOS
HTML
CSS
Android
Python
C Programming
C++
C#
MongoDB
MySQL
Javascript
PHP
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Mathematics
English
Economics
Psychology
Social Studies
Fashion Studies
Legal Studies
- Selected Reading
- UPSC IAS Exams Notes
- Developer's Best Practices
- Questions and Answers
- Effective Resume Writing
- HR Interview Questions
- Computer Glossary
- Who is Who
Cable TV Networks
Cable television networks are television channels that are delivered to viewers through cable television systems, as opposed to broadcast television, satellite television, or the internet. Some examples of popular cable TV networks in the United States include ESPN, TNT, and HBO. Cable networks can also be divided into categories, such as news networks (CNN, Fox News), sports networks (ESPN, NBC Sports), movie networks (HBO, Showtime), and lifestyle networks (Food Network, HGTV).
Cable Network operate by subscription where viewer pays to the operator to get access to the channels.
Types of Cable TV Networks
There are several different types of cable TV networks, including −
Basic cable networks − These are the most widely-available cable networks and typically include local broadcast stations, as well as popular national networks such as CNN, Fox News, and HGTV.
Premium cable networks − These networks require an additional subscription and include channels such as HBO, Showtime, and Starz. They generally offer original programming and a wider variety of movies and specials than basic cable networks.
Sports cable networks − These networks are dedicated to broadcasting sports events and related programming, such as ESPN, NBC Sports Network, and Fox Sports 1.
Regional sports networks − These networks focus on sports teams and events that are specific to a particular region, such as Fox Sports West (Los Angeles) and NESN (New England).
International cable networks − These networks offer programming from other countries in foreign languages, such as TV5Monde and CCTV News.
Niche cable networks − These networks cater to specific interests and demographics, such as cooking channels, home improvement channels, and networks targeted at a particular racial or ethnic group.
Digital cable networks − These are specialized channels that require a special digital cable box or tuner to access, such as pay-per-view channels and interactive services like on-demand movies, weather, and shopping channels.
All above mentioned categories do overlap in some cases and channels can be part of multiple categories.
Advantages of Cable TV Network
There are several advantages of cable TV networks, including −
Wider variety of programming − Cable TV networks offer a much wider variety of programming than traditional broadcast networks, including a wide range of niche channels catering to specific interests.
Better picture and sound quality − Cable networks transmit their signals digitally, which results in a clearer and more stable picture and sound quality than traditional analog broadcasts.
More control over programming − Cable networks allow viewers to choose which channels they want to subscribe to, and many also offer video on demand, pay-per-view, and other interactive services, giving viewers more control over what they watch.
Better reception − Cable networks are less susceptible to interference and reception problems caused by terrain or other obstacles than traditional over-the-air broadcasts.
More convenient recording options − Many cable and satellite TV providers offer digital video recorder (DVR) services, which allow users to record shows and movies for later viewing, pause live TV, and even skip commercials.
Variety of plans and packages to suit different budgets and interests.
Bundling options − Cable companies often offer bundle deals, which include TV, Internet, and phone services at a discounted price.
The option to stream live TV on mobile devices or other connected devices.
The TV-GUIDES, Electronic Program Guide (EPG) makes it easy to find the programs you want to watch.
Disadvantages of Cable TV Network
There are several disadvantages of cable TV networks, including −
High cost − Cable TV networks can be expensive, especially when you subscribe to multiple channels or premium networks. Prices vary depending on the provider and the package you choose, but cable TV can be a significant monthly expense.
Limited coverage − Cable TV networks are only available in certain geographic areas, and even within those areas, some buildings or homes may not be able to receive a signal.
Limited availability of certain channels − Some channels may not be available in certain areas, or may only be available as part of a higher-priced package.
Contracts − Many cable TV providers require customers to sign long-term contracts, which can be difficult to get out of if you decide to cancel service.
Hidden Fees − Some providers charge extra fees for equipment, installation, and other services, which can significantly increase the overall cost of the subscription.
Regional Sports Surcharges − Some providers charge extra fees for regional sports networks that are specific to your area, which can add a significant amount to the overall cost of your subscription.
Lack of flexibility − Once you have subscribed to a cable package, you are typically only able to view the channels included in that package, and can't pick-and-choose channels you want.
Dependency on the cable infrastructure and limited availability during power cuts.
Potential for price increases − Cable TV providers often raise prices for their services, especially when contracts are up for renewal, so your bill may be higher than you expect over time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cable TV networks offer a wide variety of programming options and good picture and sound quality. They allow users more control over what they watch, offer convenient recording options and bundle deals. However, cable TV can be expensive, have coverage limitations, have regional limitations, require long-term contracts, have hidden fees and may lead to increase in prices over time. It's important to consider your specific needs and budget when deciding whether to subscribe to a cable TV service and if you decide to, compare packages and providers to find the best deal for you.
2K+ Views
