Question: In Terms of Digital Video Recording - What is Padding?
Answer: Padding, in the world of Digital Video Recording, is the practice of adding extra time to either the beginning, the end, or both, of a recorded program to make sure none of the show is missed. Just about every Digital Video Recorder out there, from Cable and Satellite DVRs to TiVo, has a built-in function to "pad" programming with extra recording time.
As an example, on the Motorola DCT6412 Digital Video Recorder (available from many Cable companies), I program a show to record from 8:00 to 9:00pm. But, because I know that lots of times networks will start or end a show early or late, I pad the show by adding 2 minutes to the front and end of the recording, essentially recording from 7:58 to 9:02pm. This guarantees that I catch the whole show.
What about sporting events? Those that record lots of sports know that end times are never exactly what the program guide says they will be. Padding works great for sports shows, just add an extra hour or two to the recording time, and you won't miss a thing.
Padding is a great way to ensure that you never miss the beginning or end of your favorite shows.