What is tv static?

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TV Static:

TV static, also known as snow, is a visual noise that appears on analog television screens (and sometimes digital) when there is no received signal or a weak signal. It manifests as a random pattern of white and black dots.

Causes:

• Lack of Signal: The primary cause is the absence of a broadcast signal. Without a signal, the TV's tuner amplifies any available radio waves, including background electromagnetic radiation.
• Cosmic Microwave Background Radiation: A small percentage of the static comes from the cosmic microwave background radiation, which is the afterglow of the Big Bang.
• Atmospheric Noise: Other sources include atmospheric noise and interference from electrical devices.
• Internal Noise: The TV's own internal electronics also contribute to the noise.

Nature:

The static is random in nature, meaning each pixel is independently determined, giving it a unique look every time.

Digital TV:

While true static as described above is characteristic of analog TV, digital TVs can show similar visual artifacts when experiencing signal problems. However, instead of purely random noise, these often involve pixelation, blocking, or complete signal loss displayed as a blue or black screen.