Understanding Analog and HDTV

If you are serious about your television entertainment, you already know that our current analog system is going to be completely replaced by a digital DTV system as of February 2009. That is only a year away, yet many people still don’t really understand the difference. So, let’s take a moment to get to understand these systems a little bit better.

Standard Definition, which is often referred to simply as SD, is broadcast with 480i/p. It is made viewable with horizontal lines with vertical resolution. Each of these lines contains up to 704 pixels and offers a 4 x 3 aspect ratio with a 16 x 9 widescreen.

High Definition, or HD, is a bit different. With this type of broadcast, you get 720p and 1080p/i or your horizontal lines of vertical resolution. Each of these lines has either 1280 pixels of horizontal resolution if it is 720p or 1920 pixels of horizontal resolution if it is 1080i/p. This type of broadcast is online in 16 x 9 widescreen aspect ratio.

In order to facilitate the transition from SD to HD, the CC has provided broadcasters with an extra channel slot that allows them to broadcast both digital and analog television. This way, those consumers that have not upgraded to an HDTV or that do not have an HD antenna can still watch television without a problem. At the same time, those that have made the upgrade can enjoy the improved images that HD brings with it.

Once February 17 rolls around, however, the broadcasters will no longer be transmitting in both digital and analog. When this happens, your old-fashioned television isn’t going to bring you entertainment any longer unless you get a special antenna. Basically, any analog VCRs, TVs, or TiVos that you have will not be able to tune into stations, though they will still be able to display movies if you use a DVD or VHS tape. So, if you have been thinking about taking the leap and getting an HDTV, you have no better excuse or time than now!