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What kinds of
TVs are HDTVs?
n All new TVs are now DTVs as per the FCC mandate that all new TVs with tuners must have a DTV tuner. High-definition TVs (widescreen DTVs with resolution of 720p and up) can be standard direct-view, LCD, plasma, rear-
projection units or front projectors that require separate screens. HDTV refers to resolution—
the horizontal lines that can be displayed on
the screen—not the technology upon which the
TV is based.
Is my current TV obsolete?
n No. The FCC has mandated that all TV broadcasts be converted to digital by February 17, 2009. Even so, when all broadcasts are digital, there will be a program to distribute set-top boxes which can convert the digital signals so that they are compatible with analog TVs. However, if you don’t upgrade your
television, you’ll be missing out on a lot!
Is digital cable HDTV?
n No. This is the most persistent misconception out there today. What most cable companies promote as digital cable is simply standard-definition TV broadcast digitally, similar to digital satellite. The video and picture quality is usually superior to standard analog cable, but the resolution is still only a maximum of 480 interlaced lines. However, if you have digital cable or digital satellite, you don’t HAVE to upgrade to a digital TV. But you still should if you want the best picture and sound possible.
What do I need to
receive high-definition programming?
n To receive HDTV programs in your home you need an HDTV-ready television and an HDTV set-top box tuner (either for over-the-air broadcast, cable or satellite programming), or an integrated HDTV that includes a built-in digital tuner. Many new TVs are CableCARD-ready for HDTV signals.
How much can I expect to pay for an HDTV?
n As the technology matures, prices keep coming down, which is great for consumers. Currently, you can expect to pay from about $500 for smaller HDTV sets. Plasma and LCD TVs start at around $1,000.
What kind of inputs do I need on my HDTV?
n A new HDTV should have at least
one each of the following inputs: HDMI, component, S-video, coax (cable/antenna) and composite. Some projectors may also include a DVI input in place of an HDMI input. Multiple inputs of each type will allow you to connect more components such as DVD players, game consoles and camcorders. HDTV signals can only be passed from devices through HDMI, DVI or component inputs. Some HDTVS also include inputs for digital camera cards, which allow you to easily view your digital photos on TV.
Can I get HDTV from my cable company?
n Yes. At this time, cable providers in most metropolitan and suburban areas offer high-definition.
What is CableCARD?
n CableCARD is a format which all
cable companies are required by law
to support. With a CableCARD compatible TV you can receive scrambled high definition and premium cable content from any cable provider without an additional set-top box. However, with a CableCARD you will not receive the cable company’s interactive program guide or have access to pay-per-view or DVR services. You can use a Series 3 Tivo which includes two CableCARD access slots.
What’s the best resolution for HDTV: 720p, 1080i
or 1080p?
n Technically, 1080p is the highest
resolution, but any of the three qualify
as HDTV. While experts and videophiles may disagree, most people can’t tell the difference. Which looks better on a particular TV depends more on the performance of the TV’s built-in video processor than the native resolution of the programming. The benefits of 1080p are best experienced on larger TVs. Currently the only 1080p content comes from HD DVD, Blu-ray and some video games.
How much HD
programming is available?
n A lot. There are HDTV programs for all tastes, from movies and documentaries to sports and sitcoms. Programming is available from local broadcasters, cable providers and satellite providers. Currently, there are at least 200 hours of HDTV available per week, including 70 hours of free, over-the-air programming from the major networks.
Can I record HDTV?
n Yes, most cable companies and both DirecTV and Dish Network offer hard drive based digital video recorders (DVRs) for recording high definition program. DVD recorders currently do not record in high definition. Media Center PCs can also be designed for high
definition recording. The Series 3 TiVo is designed for dual-tuner HDTV recording.
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