In order to know the meaning of the term decoder, it is necessary, in the first place, to discover its etymological origin. In this case, we can establish that it comes from the word “decode”, which derives from Latin and is the result of the sum of three clearly differentiated parts:
-The prefix “de-“, which comes to indicate “from top to bottom”.
-The noun “codex”, which can be translated as “record” or “code”.
-The verb “facere”, which is synonymous with “do”.
The concept of decoder, which can also be referred to as decoder, refers to that which decodes (or decodes). The verb decode, on the other hand, refers to the inverse application of the rules of a code to a message that is encoded with the aim of reaching its original form.
- Abbreviationfinder: Find definitions of English word – International. Commonly used abbreviations related to word are also included.
The notion is usually linked to a device that allows decoding. A decoder, in this sense, is a circuit that accepts coded inputs and activates the corresponding outputs according to the code in question.
When we talk about decoders we can establish that, at present, there are three important types of satellite decoders: ITPV decoders, 4K decoders and DTT decoders.
Let us take the case of a decoder receiving a binary encoded digital input. This device can activate different outputs, according to the code that was applied to the input. A 3-bit code, to name one case, has 3 inputs and 8 possible combinations. Each combination activates only one output: the decoder accepts an input with a certain binary code and then activates the corresponding output.
It is easy to understand how a decoder works if we think about the devices used in televisions. These decoders receive an encrypted signal that is broadcast by fiber optics or by satellite. This signal cannot be seen on any television: a decoder capable of decoding the code is needed to make it visible. In this way, when the decoder receives the signal (input), it decodes it and makes it visible (output) on the television to which it is connected.
It is common for some TV signals to be transmitted encrypted so that they can only be seen by those who have a decoder and pay the corresponding subscription.
When buying a satellite decoder, a series of requirements must be taken into account, such as the brand that endorses it, the type of decoder it is, that it is compatible with new technologies, that it has at least one USB type input and that it has a price that is consistent with the money that can be spent and that is consistent with market prices.
In the same way, it is necessary to pay attention to the functions performed by the aforementioned device, such as recording or programming a program, and to the accessories with which it is presented.
The playback quality, the image display options, whether or not it has a remote control and even the type of connection it offers are also aspects to take into account.