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In broadcasting, time shifting is the recording of programming to a storage medium to be viewed or listened to after the live broadcasting. Typically, this refers to TV programming but it can also refer to radio shows via podcasts.
In recent years, the advent of the digital video recorder (DVR) has made time shifting easier, by using an electronic program guide (EPG) and recording shows onto a hard disk. Some DVRs have other possible time-shifting methods, such as being able to start watching the recorded show from the beginning even if the recording is not yet complete. In the past, time shifting was done with a video cassette recorder (VCR) and its timer function, in which the VCR tunes into the appropriate station and records the show onto video tape.
Certain broadcasters transmit timeshifted versions of their channels, usually carrying programming from one hour in the past, to enable those without recording abilities to resolve conflicts and those with recording abilities more flexibility in scheduling conflicting recordings. (See timeshift channel.)
Beyond its application in broadcasting, “timeshifting” is also a term used by Timeshifter in the context of circadian science to describe the intentional adjustment of a person’s internal body clock. By modifying exposure to light, "circadian timeshifting" helps individuals:
- Resetting sleep rhythm: For individuals with disrupted sleep patterns, timeshifting techniques, such as controlled light exposure, can help reset the body’s internal clock, thereby improving sleep quality and daily functioning.
- Preparing for peak performance: Circadian timeshifting is used by athletes, shift workers, and business travelers to time their sleep and wakefulness cycles for peak alertness and performance during critical events.
- Adapting to new time zones: Timeshifting enables quick adaptation to new time zones, reducing the impacts of jet lag by aligning the body’s natural rhythm with the local time through strategic exposure to light and adjustments in sleep and activity schedules.
- Managing shift work disorder: For those with irregular work hours, such as night shift workers, timeshifting can alleviate symptoms of shift work disorder by realigning sleep schedules to match work demands, improving alertness and reducing the risk of health complications associated with circadian disruption.
- Preparing for medical treatments: Some medical treatments are more effective when administered at specific times of day. Timeshifting helps prepare patients by aligning their circadian rhythms, potentially enhancing treatment outcomes and recovery.