First of all, what exactly is high definition television (also often called HDTV)?
High definition television is a digital broadcast signal that offers a higher resolution image than standard definition television (SDTV). The resolution of HDTV is up to six times more detailed than SDTV, delivering a crystal clear picture and the ultimate in surround sound. Because it offers superior picture and sound quality, HDTV is quickly becoming the industry standard.
Standard definition programming is broadcast in 480i, which means that 480 vertical lines are scanned in an interlaced pattern on your TV screen. This means that lines 1, 3, 5 and so on are scanned first, and then followed by lines 2, 4, 6….
To be considered high definition, video must be broadcast with at least 720 lines. Many cable and satellite TV providers offer HD in 1080p, which is more than double the resolution offered in standard definition.
You will notice that instead of an ‘i’ following the quantity of lines in HD, there is typically a ‘p.’ This means that each line is scanned progressively. Progressive scanning offers better image quality than interlaced, as it does not break images apart into separate fields.
One of the first things that you will notice about HDTV is that it employs a different aspect ratio than SDTV. Aspect ratio describes the image’s width in relation to it’s height. Standard television is broadcast 4:3, and HDTV is broadcast 16:9. High definition programs are nearly twice as wide as they are tall, which mimics the aspect ratio of movie theater screens.
This concept probably sounds familiar to you. Think about every time you play a DVD and have to choose between the widescreen and standard version. When movies and TV shows are ‘formatted to fit your screen,’ lots of information may be lost in converting to a 4:3 aspect ratio.
With an HD television set in your home, you will see each movie and TV program as it was intended to be seen - unaltered, and without an irritating ‘letterbox’ to distract you. A 16:9 aspect ratio is preferable, because it delivers uncut content.
Make the Switch! Why switch to high definition programming? It’s kind of like when DVDs replaced VHS technology in the 1990s. The next ‘best thing’ has finally arrived, and your cable TV provider can help you get the ultimate HD package in your home. For an improved TV-viewing experience, say goodbye to standard television. Since analog signals are no longer broadcast over-the-air, there has never been a better time to upgrade your TV service!
Taylor Jensen writes about Time Warner Cable, is considered an expert in the field of cable TV, HD TV, DVR technology, and has published hundreds of articles informing consumers about what to look for when consideringTime Warner Cable TV service for your home.
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