What is Pixelation and How Can It Be Avoided?

Have you been watching television, only to notice that the images become a bit blurred or strange looking as the items on the screen move quickly? If so, you are probably experiencing a problem that is referred to as pixelation.

You are probably accustomed to pixelation already but don’t even realize it. If you have taken a photo and tried to blow it up on your computer, for example, you may have noticed some little diamonds or squares beginning to form. As a result, the image begins to look blurry and distorted. This is because the squares you are seeing are the pixels in the picture.

When put together in an image, all of these thousands of little square colors help to create the image in your photograph. When you stretch out your photo, however, the squares are stretched out and each one becomes more noticeable. Sometimes, television stations purposely pixelate images when they are trying to protect the identity of someone on screen. Unfortunately, pixelation can take place on your television screen even when you don’t want it to.

In general, you are more likely to see pixelation on a larger screen television. When fast moving images occur on your screen, your television has a difficult time keeping up with the action and the pixels become more apparent.

If you are having pixelation problems, you likely have an HDTV. Older models of HDTVs have a more problems with pixelation than newer models, but it can still be a problem with lower end models.

The best way to avoid pixelation is to watch the screen before you purchase it, paying particular attention to fast-moving action. If you notice pixelation, move on to the next television and check out its images.

Even if the television looks great in the store, you may still notice some pixelation once you get it home. If you notice this problem, you should check out the cable you are using. If you have a very low quality HDMI cable, it may be resulting in the pixelation. Bad weather or a poor quality cable box can also lead to problems, so check out these factors to see if you can eliminate your pixelation problem.

Technorati Tags: hdtv