Is the Extended Data Service (XDS) feature good to have?
XDS (previously known as EDS) stands for Extended Data Services and is used in analog TV broadcasts. Like closed captioning, it permits broadcasters to display program information such as the time of day, station call letters, network, current show name, program ratings, time remaining for current show, etc. PBS stations usually imbed the time-of-day. TVs and recording devices that recognize XDS can then set their internal clocks automatically. The amount of XDS information varies among broadcasters – some do not send it at all – check with them or with neighbors to be sure. Digital television provides a more elaborate system with a similar purpose called PSIP (Program and System Information Protocol). Broadcasters are required to carry this data. An “integrated HDTV” should display it on-screen as the Electronic Program Guide.
