V-chips give parents control

While parents want to protect their children from offensive or inappropriate TV programming, many don't know that the tools they need may already be right in their living room. Every television 13inches and larger built since 2000 contains a V-chip, which can block individual channels or programs depending on content. This technology lets parents determine what is appropriate for their children.

Most television shows now include a rating, as established by the broadcasting industry, displayed in the upper left hand corner at the start of the program and succeeding hours if the program is longer than one hour. This rating also is encoded into the programs, so the V-chip technology can read the encoded information and block shows according to parental presets. Using the remote control, parents can program the Vchip to block certain shows. Because programs are rated by episode, ratings may vary from week to week.

To use the V-chip, follow the directions using the TV's onscreen menu. Each brand and model may have somewhat different procedures, but none is difficult. There also are written instructions in the owner's manual. The V-chip is activated by using a password or code. Any change requires the user to know the code, so children cannot change the settings.

Although cable and satellite set-top boxes have their own parental controls, each TV has its own so it's possible to block programs or channels even if the TV signal is received over the air. The V-chip also can block uncut and unedited movies that run on premium channels using the MPAA rating system.

A new website from the Consumer Electronics Association, www.ce.org/vchip, provides information about how to utilize the V-chip and provides additional resources for parents.

This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.