People baffled to learn the symbol on your TV remote doesn't mean on/off

11 May 2023 , 16:47

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The 'on off' button isn't really a correct description (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Even if you're not somebody who watches lots of TV, chances are you'll know your way around a remote control, and will immediately recognise the big red button at the top wherever you are in the world.

It's also likely you'll assume you know exactly what this button does, and, if you were asked to explain, you'd confidently describe it as the "on or off button".

Even though many people would know precisely what you meant by this, it turns out this description isn't quite correct, much to the amazement of many telly watchers.

Take a closer look at this button and you'll make out a circular pattern, cut through with a small line. This is a symbol that draws from the binary number system, and once you decipher its meaning, the button's purpose becomes apparent.

The symbol on your remote's red button will show a line cutting through a circle shape (Getty Images)

The website Cracked.com recently shared an article about what everyday symbols actually mean, including the one found on your red button.

'I don't want children staying up late at weekends - I really need adult time'

Explaining what this symbol means according to the binary number system, the publication revealed that 'I' represents '1' or 'on', while the 'O' is intended to signify a zero or 'off'.

While the configuration with the 'I' in the centre of the 'O' is said to indicate "a toggle between fully 'on' or 'off' between each press", this isn't the case when the circle is cut through with the line.

The button doesn't actually turn your TV fully off (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

According to Cracked: "This configuration on a button indicates a toggle between fully 'on' or 'standby' (not fully 'off') with each press.

"Your computer is a good example. There is always 'standby' power available unless it's unplugged!"

Sharing an explanatory graphic on Facebook, the publication asked readers: "Ever wonder what those symbols on power switches and buttons mean? (Don't be embarrassed, many people do!)"

A number of people were left amazed by this revelation, with one person writing: "It took years of operating all kinds of equipment before I noticed the pattern. So I googled it and this is what I found."

Another admitted: "I always pictured a screen turning on (expanding light) and turning off (contracting light)."

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Julia Banim