Settops

Settops is a term used to describe devices that receive, decode, and render television content for display on a television set. In common usage, settops include traditional set-top boxes provided by cable and satellite operators, as well as streaming media players and IPTV gateways that sit between a network source and a television.

A settops system typically includes a tuner or client for selecting channels or streams, a decoder to convert compressed video into a playable format, and an output interface such as HDMI. Many devices also integrate a user interface, a digital video recorder, network connectivity, and support for third‑party apps. Some devices support conditional access via smart cards or CI modules to decrypt premium content.

Delivery methods include coaxial cables, satellite dishes, and internet protocols, with content delivered to the settops by traditional broadcast, on-demand libraries, or streaming services. On the software side, settops range from operator-provided platforms with proprietary apps to open app ecosystems on streaming devices.

Historically, the settops concept emerged in the 1980s to deliver cable television to households, evolving to include interactive services and on‑demand libraries. The 2010s saw a shift toward IP-based streaming and hybrid devices that combine traditional tuners with internet apps. More recent models emphasize higher resolutions, HDR, voice control, and cloud-based features.

Standards and regulation vary by region. Tuners may follow DVB, ATSC, or other broadcast standards, while content delivery over the internet uses standard IP protocols. Digital rights management and conditional access systems play a key role in protecting premium content.

Related topics include set-top box, streaming media player, and digital video recorder.