Safe area (television)

The use of safe areas in television production ensures that the most important parts of the picture are seen by the majority of viewers.

Typically corners would require more space from the edges, but due to increased quality of the average display this is no longer the concern it used to be, even on CRTs.

The term "title-safe" originated from the fact this is where it is safe to display text such as lower thirds or full-screen graphics listing information such as telephone numbers.

It is generally considered safe to have elements that shouldn't be seen by the viewers placed in this area, such as the edge of the set or cables and other equipment.

In addition, TV tuner cards and DVD players for personal computers often show the entire picture.

In addition to active picture, analog broadcast signals contain blanking areas that provide timings and control.

Widescreen programs in 14:9 or 16:9 aspect ratio, on the other hand, are produced with zero overscan at the top and bottom of the picture, where the letterbox bars appear on a 4:3 television.