Under a license from Swiss Broadcasting Corporation, aMap collects viewership data using Telecontrol VIII data collection units sourced from Telecontrol AG, and wireless connections using GSM modems.

aMap uses Telecontrol VIII data recording units to collect TV viewership data from TVs in the sample homes. The Telecontrol unit is connected to the television receiver and it automatically registers/stores the information about the channel to which the TV set is currently tuned. This device can store up to approximately seven days’ viewership information.

A GSM modem is connected to each Telecontrol unit. The central server calls up each of the Telecontrol units in sample homes to pick up the data stored therein. aMap's technology architecture enables instant data collection from the sample homes as often as desired. It also enables conducting of instant opinion polls about the programs being telecast. The collected data is instantaneously incorporated into the aMap reports.

At present the central server calls up all the sample homes between 2:00 AM and 4:00 AM IST (Indian Standard Time) to collect the data. In case the data from some of the homes/ units can not be collected in the first attempt, the server dials that home again after 5 minutes, and makes the third attempt after 1.30 hours. After 3 trials, the server gives up. If non-collection of data is caused by the problems with cellular connection, the data can be collected later at any time over next seven days.

The system generates a list of sample homes from which the data could not be collected. These failures are investigated on the same day. The possible causes of failure in data collection are

The Telecontrol system can respond to every possible use of a television screen, including viewing videos, playing TV games and using Teletext. Moreover, the design of the Telecontrol unit and its interactive system can be adapted to the psychological requirements of the panel household members, a key reason for its very high degree of acceptance and the widespread willingness to enter information.

Telecontrol system, developed over last 24 years, is being used for TV Audience Measurement in the following countries:

Countries	Households
Austria --------------- France ---------------- Germany------------- Mexico---------------- Portugal ------------- Puerto Rico  -------- Switzerland --------- Spain ----------------- Ukraine -------------- USA -------------------	1,500 2,300 6,600    220    550    640 1,870 2,800 1,200    200