Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I talk with others on a TV?
A: Each party needs a TVBLOB Box, a TV, a videocamera, and a broadband internet connection. Once you’re all set up, you can videocall as long as you want for one low, flat monthly fee that includes unlimited usage.

Q: Is it difficult to set up?
A: It’s really not, particularly in the home. The challenges for our users typically arise from videocamera issues (e.g., how to turn off the manufacturer’s demo mode?) or network issues in office settings (e.g., how to punch through firewalls?).

Q: How important is bandwidth?
A: It is critical, particularly in upload. Download speed is almost never a problem with today’s high speed connections. TVBLOB can work with as little as 512Kbps in upload (even lower, when absolutely pushed), but the interactive experience is compromised - you begin to see packet loss (i.e., audio or video drop outs) which makes it feel less natural. To enjoy the full TV experience, you need to confirm with your Internet Service Provider that enough upload bandwidth is truly available. Or, if you have a PC at home, use a third-party speed measurement site such as numion.org to test your real bandwidth.

Q: How does the TVBLOB Box fit in with my other electronic devices for the TV?
A: The TVBLOB Box will work alongside any other consumer electronic device connected to your TV. Someday, it will even be able to replace many of the other devices you may have, such as a video recorder (the TVBLOB Box can record) and place-shifting or time-shifting devices.

Q: How will it affect my High Definition TV?
A: The TVBLOB Box does not currently support HD, so a video call or video streaming from an external source will simply display as standard-definition television.

Q: Can I add my own TVsite to the TVBLOB World Portal so other TVBLOB users can see it?
A: Yes, in fact we’d love you to! And we even provide tips for TV design in the TV HELP area. All you need are standard HTML/CSS/Ajax development tools.