Asked by: Mary Brooks, Totnes

Digital audio or video is transmitted as a series of binary bits. Like a dam holding back water in a stream, broadcast equipment stores up a backlog, or cache, of data. Then, if there are dropouts in transmission, there’s a sufficient supply to maintain the signal without interruption. Some services buffer more than others, explaining the discrepancy between digital radio and digital TV.

Subscribe to BBC Focus magazine for fascinating new Q&As every month and follow @sciencefocusQA on Twitter for your daily dose of fun science facts.

Authors

Gareth Mitchell

Sponsored Deals

BBC Science Focus Magazine Subscription Offer

May Half Price Sale

  • Save up to 52% when you subscribe to BBC Science Focus Magazine.
  • Risk - free offer! Cancel at any time when you subscribe via Direct Debit.
  • FREE UK delivery.
  • Stay up to date with the latest developments in the worlds of science and technology.
SUBSCRIBE NOW