HD Programming

Ever wonder why programming on 2 HD channels seems to be of noticeably different quality? Here is an overlook at how content is fed to you from the producer and the provider. There are two major factors. First, the initial production quality, which is mainly decided by the broadcasting network. Second, the quality of the signal fed to you by your cable or satellite provider.

First, the source it self, is the broadcasting network. Depending on the technology they employ they will shoot and broadcast content at a given resolution and will use certain encoding formats and procedures that will directly impact on the quality of programming they sell to the service providers (Your cable company). Most major networks will use HD cameras and high definition encoding that insures full HD, but some reduce quality by compressing content to save on bandwidth. This is often the case in popular shows that are broadcast to multiple sources simultaneously to prevent lag and freezes caused by bandwidth limitations imposed by the carrier’s capacities to receive and broadcast content.

As far as the service providers are concerned, the true limitations lie in infrastructure limitations. Bandwidth is the key factor and can be compared to a freeway on which users are cars. If at a certain time everyone or a vast majority is viewing a selected program, this will result on bandwidth strains similar to what a busy parkway may look like at rush hour traffic. In order to guarantee that all users will be able to enjoy the programming flawlessly without lag or freezing, providers often compress it.