The V-chip :: essays research papers

The V-ChipWhat is a V-chip? This term has become a buzz expression for every(prenominal) discussion evolvingtelecommunications jurisprudence and television ratings, but not in addition many another(prenominal) reportsdefine the new technology in its fullest form. A staple definition of the V-chipis a microprocessor that can decipher information sent in the vertical blankingof the NTSC omen, purposefully for the control of violent or controversial state matter. only, the span of the new chip is much greater than any working(a)definition can encompass. A discussion of the V-chip must include aconsideration of the technical and ethical issues, in addition to examining theconstitutionally of any law that might concern standards set by the USgovernment. Yet in the space provided for this essay, the focus entrust be thetechnical aspects and cost of the new chip. It is impossible to generallyassume that the V-chip will solve the strength problem of broadcast televisionor that add ing this little device to every set will be a first amendmentinfringement. We can, however, find clues through with(predicate) examining the cold facts ofbroadcast television and the impact of a mandatory regulation on that freebroadcast. "Utilizing the EIAs Recommended Practice for Line 21 DataService(EIA-608) specification, these chips trace EDS (Extended DataServices)program ratings, compare these ratings to viewer standards, and can beprogrammed to carry on a variety of actions, including complete blanking ofprograms." Is one definition of the V-chip from Al marquis of Zilog Technology.The FCC or Capitol Hill has not set any standards for V-chip technology thishas allowed many incompatible companies to construct chips that are similar yet not tiny or possibly not compatible. Each chip has advantages and disadvantages forthe ratings system, soon to be true. For example, some units use onscreenprogramming such as VCRs and the Zilog product do, period others are cons ideringset top options. Also, different companies are using different methods ofparental control over the chip.Another problem that these new devices whitethorn incur when included in everytelevision is a space. The NTSC signal includes extra information space known asthe subcarrier and Vertical blanking interval. As explained in the quotationfrom Mr. Marquis, the V-chips will use a certain segment of this space to sendsimple rating numbers and points that will be compared to the personalitysettings in the chip. Many new technologies are being developed for smart-TV ordata broadcast on this part of the NTSC signal. Basically the V-chip willseverely limit the bandwidth for high performance transmission of data on theNTSC signal. There is also to be cost to this new technology, which will be