We are at the beginning of a decade of extraordinary change in telecommunications. Computers and information are joining together in a way which demands new techniques and capability in the field. Evolving demand and attitudes towards television, epitomised by the attention being given to direct broadcasting, are influencing national policy to many countries.

Today it is possible to ‘hook up’ video games and video recording equipment to the domestic television set. Data services are available to the viewer and small home computers can be connected. Direct-to-homes TV broadcasting is an addition to these facilities, extending the range of what is becoming a complete home entertainment and information service.