An electronic programme guide shows schedule information associated with channels, such as programme titles and start times. A player usually obtains that information separately from the media stream and matches it to channel entries. Guide completeness, timing and detail depend on the data source, matching identifiers, update process and player interpretation.
A practical example
A live channel can play correctly while its guide is blank because the player has no matching schedule data for that entry. Testing playback and guide loading separately helps identify whether the problem is media access or programme information.
A common misunderstanding
A guide entry is not a recording or a guarantee that the listed programme will be available. Schedule information can also change, arrive late or be matched incorrectly.
Related terms
Stable technical definition. Editorial approach