Electronic television

Definition

Electronic television refers to the technology that uses electronic signals to transmit images and sound, making it possible for viewers to watch moving pictures on a screen. This innovation revolutionized communication and entertainment, marking a significant leap from earlier mechanical systems and paving the way for the modern television industry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The first working electronic television was developed by Philo Farnsworth in 1927, which used electronic scanning to create images.
2. Electronic television replaced earlier mechanical systems, such as those developed by John Logie Baird, allowing for clearer and more stable images.
3. During the 1930s, electronic television technology advanced rapidly, leading to the establishment of regular broadcasting in various countries.
4. The transition from black-and-white to color electronic television began in the 1950s, significantly enhancing viewer experience and program production.
5. The introduction of remote control technology in the 1950s transformed viewer interaction with electronic television, making it more user-friendly.

Review Questions

• How did the invention of electronic television change the way images were transmitted compared to earlier methods?
  • The invention of electronic television marked a major shift from mechanical systems that relied on physical components to transmit images. Instead of using rotating disks and mechanical parts, electronic television employed electronic signals to scan and display images on a screen. This technological advancement allowed for clearer images, improved stability during transmission, and eventually paved the way for innovations like color broadcasting and remote control capabilities.
• What were the key developments in electronic television technology during the 1930s that contributed to its widespread adoption?
  • In the 1930s, several key developments propelled electronic television towards widespread adoption. The refinement of electronic scanning methods by pioneers like Philo Farnsworth improved image clarity and stability. Regular broadcasting began during this time, with stations airing programs that captured public interest. Additionally, advancements in vacuum tube technology enhanced signal transmission quality, leading to increased public enthusiasm for owning televisions.
• Evaluate the impact of color electronic television on viewer engagement and programming in the latter half of the 20th century.
  • The advent of color electronic television significantly transformed viewer engagement and programming strategies in the latter half of the 20th century. It allowed networks to create more visually dynamic content, attracting larger audiences and enhancing storytelling through richer visual experiences. This shift encouraged advertisers to invest more heavily in televised ads, resulting in increased revenue for networks. As color became standard, it also influenced the production design and aesthetic choices made by creators, making programming more appealing and diverse.

Related terms

Cathode Ray Tube (CRT): A technology used in older televisions that displays images by firing electrons at a phosphorescent screen, creating the visuals we see.

Analog Television: A method of transmitting television signals using analog signals, which are continuous waves representing varying frequencies and amplitudes.

Television Broadcasting: The process of transmitting television programs to a wide audience through radio waves or cable networks.