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What is PIP TV?

by Jennifer Claerr

Overview

PiP TV stands for "picture-in-picture" television. In order to use PiP, your television set must support the feature. PiP is very useful if you would like to watch two programs simultaneously. One picture appears in the main screen, while the other is viewed in a small inset window. The two programs can usually be reversed with the touch of a button.
Function

PiP allows you to watch programs from two separate sources. Some PiP TV sets have two tuners that will allow you to watch two broadcast programs at the same time. PiP sets with a single tuner can receive signals from two cable or satellite boxes, or a DVD player or VCR. Televisions with PIP are usually large-screen LCD sets. However, in some cases PiP may be available in CRT televisions, as well.

Function

To set up PiP on a single-tuner set, you must line in your antenna, DVD, VCR, cable or satellite box using component video. Component video splits the video signal into three separate signals of red, green and blue. After activating the PiP function of your television, select the input sources you would like to view.
Function

PiP is useful if you would like to monitor one program while you watch another. For example, if you'd like to keep track of the score on a sports program but don't want to give it your full attention, you can place the game in the inset window while you watch something else. It would also be useful for monitoring stock and news tickers and shows that are recording on a DVR or VCR.
Considerations

PiP can be addictive. Just as some people can't resist the urge to needlessly change channels constantly, some people can't resist the temptation to repeatedly switch the two programs in PiP. In many cases it's impossible to watch two programs at the same time, rendering the PiP effectively useless for those purposes. Other people who are watching television with you may feel that their viewing is disrupted by the excessive use of PiP.
Effects

When deciding whether or not to invest in a television with PiP features, make sure you really have a reason to use it. A set with PiP is likely to be more expensive than one without it. Getting two set top boxes to watch two cable or satellite programs at the same time can also be pricey. Also, in some cases the PiP may be difficult to configure. Shop around to ensure that you get the television that best serves your needs.