HDTV FAQs

What is HDTV?
A high-definition television (HDTV) is one capable of displaying images at a higher resolution than a conventional, standard-definition TV (SDTV) and is typically shaped more like a movie theater screen.

High-definition programs (and DVDs) viewed on an HDTV are sharper, have more vivid colors and generally look "cleaner" than what appears on a standard-definition set.

How does "resolution" impact the quality of the picture?
A picture comes to your TV set as a series of horizontal lines, which are divided into tiny squares called pixels. More lines and pixels mean higher resolution and sharper images. Standard TVs come with 480 lines of resolution; HDTVs come with either 720 or 1,080 lines, referred to as 720p, 1080i and 1080p. While 720p has the lowest resolution, its progressive-scan format (the p in 720p) produces a very smooth image that stays sharp during fast motion. 1080i is an interlaced format, which means that, while its resolution is higher, the image is not as stable.

What equipment do I need to watch HDTV?
In addition to an HDTV set, you'll also need an HDTV tuner (a.k.a. ATSC tuner). This will allow you to watch over-the-air HD programming, like Discovery's HD Theater! Some sets have a built-in tuner. These sets are typically referred to simply as HDTVs. Other models require a separate tuner. These are usually called HD-Ready sets. Cable and satellite customers can get a cable or satellite box from their provider that includes an HDTV tuner (assuming their existing box doesn't include one). There is usually a very small monthly fee associated with these boxes.

If you're only interested in watching DVDs on your HDTV set, then you do not need a tuner. 

Will an HDTV set make regular TV programs look better? What about DVDs?
Though HDTVs have the ability to stabilize a regular TV image, reducing "snow" and "ghosting" artifacts, they will have little effect on the coloration or sharpness of the image.

DVDs, however, look markedly better on HDTV than on standard TV. Even traditional, low-end DVD players produce crisper, more vivid images on an HDTV set. Moreover, progressive-scan DVD players (with built-in processors for smoother playback in high-definition) often produce astounding results on an HD set.

What are HDMI inputs?
HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface. HDMI inputs are similar to RCA and S-Video jacks in that they permit the connection of a video or audio device to your television. However, HDMI inputs are generally thought of as producing the highest quality video signal. HDMI transmits an uncompressed digital video signal and multi-channel digital audio – all through a single cable, eliminating the connection headaches often associated with multi-cable formats. And despite carrying both video and audio signals, HDMI actually has additional bandwidth, allowing for the transmission of future upgrades and enhancements.