set-top

Referring to an auxiliary device that usually rests on top of or adjacent to a television receiver and that is used in direct analog or digital satellite transmissions and digital television to be viewed on analog television; a set-top device may convert cable TV or Web signals to a form or format that allows end-user channel selection or interaction via a separate desktop computer or key pad. It may tune channels that the TV does not tune and may include descrambling circuitry. It may also include an electronic program guide. Synonyms set-top box, set-top converter.