It is important to be aware of what features are available before purchasing a unit. Some of the more important features include:
• Standard definition record and playback capabilities (SDTV)
• High definition record and playback capabilities (HDTV)
• Multiple recording modes (higher, lower audio/video quality)
• Storage capacity (hours of video that can be stored)
• Electronic program guide (EPG)
• Time shifting features (pause live television)
• Video inputs for coaxial cable, twisted pair, optical fibre cable
• Connectivity to devices such as keyboards etc
• Internal CD, DVD, VCR devices for archiving video
• Connectivity to external storage devices
• Built-in networking capabilities
• Video on Demand (VoD) and pay-per-view capabilities