Tivo DVR

DVR stands for Digital Video Recorder. It is the hard drive at the center of the TiVo system, the same used by its competitors. It works by continually recording television programs, allowing viewers to pause, rewind, or fast-forward. Most systems record a 30-minute buffer, but some systems record 90 minutes of whatever show is being watched.

Users also program which shows they would like to record. Some systems allow two programs to be recorded at the same time, though this usually requires a dual satellite hookup, which can be expensive. Depending on the size of the hard drive, viewers can record up to 100 hours worth of programming. The system will record over the oldest shows, unless the programs are specifically saved.

Other systems that use the same technology are UltimateTV, ReplayTV and EchoStar. UltimateTV is part of Microsoft's WebTV, which allows viewers to receive Internet content while watching television. ReplayTV offers personal video recorders that allow viewers to search programs based on keywords, such as an actor or director's name. EchoStar offers much the same service, and has partnered with OpenTV.

Since DirecTV announced it was going to strike out on its own with its own DVR service, many investors were worried about the future of TiVo. However, a partnership with cable giant Comcast, which will offer TiVo as an add-on to its premium service, have eased those worries somewhat. Other analysts have said the non-exclusive deal will allow TiVo to seek other partnerships with other cable companies, and may, in the long run, make the company more profitable.