Final answer:
The second question to be asked when troubleshooting a set-top box with no picture is whether all TVs are affected, which helps determine if the issue is with the cable service, signal distribution, or a particular set-top box and connections.
Step-by-step explanation:
When troubleshooting no picture on a set-top box after confirming if there is more than one TV hooked up to cable, the second question that should be asked of the customer is: "Are all TVs affected?"
This question is essential because it helps determine the scope of the problem. If all TVs are affected, the issue might be with the cable service or the signal distribution within the customer's location. If only one TV is affected, then the problem might be isolated to a single set-top box, the specific TV itself, or the connections between them. This helps in diagnosing if the problem is with the individual set-top box or a larger issue within the cable system.
Set-top boxes act as a receiver for the cable programming signals that are transmitted to homes through coaxial or fiber optic cables. The technology is quite advanced compared to the outdated cathode ray tube technology used in older TV sets, which are becoming less common due to the improvements in flat screen technology, high-definition broadcasting, and more compact design.