TV channel guides

What is an EPG? An electronic program guide lists what airs on each channel and when. Learn how EPG data flows via XMLTV and why it drives discoverability.

What is AVOD? Ad-supported video on demand lets viewers stream free in exchange for ads. Learn how AVOD works, how it differs from FAST, and the economics.

What is CTV? Connected TV is any television that streams video over the internet. Learn how CTV differs from smart TV and OTT, and why advertisers use it.

FAST stands for Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV: linear channels streamed over the internet, free to watch, funded by ads. How it works, who runs it, and why it is growing.

What is linear TV? Linear TV is scheduled programming on channels you tune into. Learn how it differs from on demand and why FAST channels made linear grow.

What is SCTE-35? SCTE-35 is the standard for signaling ad breaks inside a video stream. Learn how splice markers work and how SSAI uses them to insert ads.

What is a VAST tag? VAST is the XML standard that tells video players which ad to play and how to track it. Learn the handshake, plus VAST vs VPAID vs SIMID.

How to improve ad fill rates on your FAST channel: what determines fill, how ad waterfall works, the role of floor prices, and practical steps to increase revenue without degrading viewer experience.

How to build and maintain a 24/7 FAST channel schedule: the difference between a programming grid and a playout schedule, scheduling strategies, handling gaps, and what happens when content runs short.

Convert a YouTube library to a linear FAST channel: rights checks, download workflows, which videos qualify, and how to build a 24/7 schedule from your catalog.

When FAST channels need DRM, what DRM systems exist for HLS streams (Widevine, FairPlay, PlayReady), what the tradeoffs are, and why most independent FAST operators don't need it at launch.

How Electronic Program Guides (EPGs) work for FAST channels: the XMLTV format, what data TV platforms require, how EPGs are generated from your schedule, and how to improve your EPG metadata for better discovery.