How to Optimize a Web Page for WebTV

WebTV is a computer system that allows surfers to use televisions to surf the Internet. Because of their unique setup, your page will look different to WebTV viewers. This tutorial will help you customize your web page for WebTV viewers.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Download the WebTV Viewer Tool (see Related Links). This allows you to see what your page will look like to a WebTV user.

2. Consult the Authoring for WebTV Reference (see Related Links) to determine if WebTV supports the HTML or other components used in your page.

3. Use large, easy to view images and bold text for easier reading and navigation.

4. Keep the width of your page under 560 pixels. Because WebTV does not allow viewers to scroll horizontally, your page will be compressed to fit the screen, which can result in distorted pages and images.

5. Use clean, simple colors when designing the page. Remember that viewers are looking at the page much as you would a television.

6. Format text using large text that contrasts well with the background. Avoid lengthy, eye-straining paragraphs and tiny type.

Tips & Warnings

• The easiest way to make your web page WebTV-compatible is to design a simple, easy-to-navigate web page. You may be able to avoid designing a separate page altogether if your web page is easy to use.
• Avoid a plain white background, which can appear distorted on a WebTV screen. Instead, use an off-white or cream-colored background.
• Avoid patterned backgrounds, which can be distorted or wavy on WebTV screens.