Programming a video recorder is—allegedly—easier these days, but it’s only possible when the owner is there to do it. The BBC has been working on a way to programme videos remotely over the Internet (GB 2 363 894). The broadcaster posts programme schedules on a website, and the viewer accesses the site to select a programme to be recorded. The site then generates a trigger signal with a unique identity tag for your digital TV receiver, and the signal is transmitted with the programme as it is broadcast. The code is recognised only by the viewer’s receiver, which sends infrared signals to the recorder, setting the channel and switching it on and off at the right times.
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Technology
Test moderators use AI-generated writing to judge literacy standards
News
Technology
We should decide how AI shapes the future, not tech firms
Comment
Technology
Quantum voting could make elections more secure
News
Technology
DeepMind AI gives an extra day of warning ahead of deadly cyclones
News
Popular articles
Trending New Scientist articles