Television - The Source is Important!
TVs can only produce the images we see on screen after receiving the picture information from an outside source. There are a few options to choose from when deciding which source is best for your needs, but first we need to talk about the new standard for broadcasting, digital television signals. This is a more advanced method of sending television signals and will replace analog TV broadcasting within the next couple of years due to a national mandate to stations for the provision of digital programming no later than 2006. Digital television (DTV) encompasses three categories: Standard Definition Television (SDTV), Enhanced Definition Television (EDT), and High Definition Television (HDTV).
SDTV is the bare minimum of digital TV. Although it is better than the traditional analog signal, it has a limited lifespan due to the increasing popularity of HDTV. A better display performance can be achieved with EDTV, but it still has a lesser quality display than HDTV.
HDTV is the most advanced DTV available with its superb picture, an appearance that is almost three-dimensional, and sound that matches DVD quality.
Whether you receive SDTV, EDTV, or HDTV, there is no question that you will be receiving a much more enhanced signal than with traditional analog TV broadcasts. You have three options for receiving DTV in your home, over-the-air (OTA), digital cable, or via satellite.
Most current HD content is delivered via satellite or cable systems, and not over-the-air. In some areas, however, free HDTV programs are available from local TV stations. Benefits of receiving HDTV over-the-air include no monthly service fees and the reception of local programming. Call your local TV station for more information on the availability of free HD programming in your area.
Digital cable can provide SDTV on most channels, and many providers are now offering national and local HD programming. Benefits of receiving HDTV through digital cable are that you usually won’t need to buy any expensive hardware and that no external dish or antenna is necessary to receive national and local HD programming (if carried by your local cable provider). For more information on set-top boxes needed and the availability and cost of HD programming, contact your local cable provider.
With satellite, you will receive 100% DTV standard definition on every channel. You can also receive HDTV programming upon request and availability. Contact the satellite company of your choice for more information.
Digital Television |
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Type |
Resolution |
Aspect Ratio |
Audio |
Rating |
HDTV |
Vertical Resolution from 720p to 1080i |
Widescreen 16:9 |
Receives and reproduces Dolby Digital 5.1 |
Best |
EDTV |
Minimum Vertical Resolution of 480p |
Widescreen 16:9 or Traditional 4:3 |
Receives and reproduces Dolby Digital 5.1 |
Better |
SDTV |
Less than 480p |
Widescreen 16:9 or Traditional 4:3 |
Standard Stereo |
Good |
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