Untold Secrets You Need To Know
Before Purchasing Your HDTV.


Introduction

It was very easy to buy a new television a decade ago, since we had limited options. You could have easily bought a new television for your family with a quick trip to your local consumer electronics store. However, things have changed now. In the last few decades, television has undergone some astounding transformations. Today, you have an extensive range of televisions with better picture quality, sound, and sizes. When it comes to the latest innovations in television technology, nothing can beat the High Definition television (HDTV).

HDTV became available in the market in late 90’s. Since then, it has been becoming popular increasingly. It offers an unmatched experience of watching television, and is available in multiple sizes, styles and colors. However, what makes a HDTV unreachable to common people is its heavy price tag. Therefore, if you are planning to buy a HDTV, be prepared to spend a lot of money. Even if money is not an issue for you, do not rush out to the stores in a hurry. Before you buy a new HDTV, you have to make out a vast array of decisions.

Buying a HDTV can seem an intimidating task. There are so many types on the market with different type of features and specifications, which make your decision-making process an uphill task.  Nevertheless, you need not get into panic mode. This e-book will help you all through the way by providing you reliable and useful information. It will help you Identify the entire essential details to consider, and will make your search quick and painless. It will not only make buying your HDTV easy for you but also pleasurable, until you do not receive your credit card bills, of course. The manual contains some untold secrets related to HDTV you should consider before buying one.


Basics Of HDTV

The first step in knowing the essentials you need to consider before buying the HDTV is to become familiar with its basics. The following passages will let you understand what is HDTV, how does it work, and what is the future of HDTV.

What is HDTV?

HD stands for high definition, and it is the new standard of television viewing. HDTV is actually part of the Digital Television (DTV) specifications brought by the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC). ATSC has defined eighteen different transmission formats, out of which six are considered ‘High Definition,’ because they constitute an incredible improvement over the resolution quality of a normal television.

HDTV has 1125 lines of resolution in comparison to 525 lines in the Regular NTSC analog signals. Thus, HDTV carries over five times the video information, as compared to your conventional NTSC analog TV set. In one way, it is the biggest advantage, and the other way it creates a hurdle because HDTV transmission requires an extraordinary bandwidth, five times the capacity of a conventional TV signal. True, they are five times better than your conventional TV, but then, they are 50% more expensive also.

A Brief History of HDTV

Although HDTV has a very short history, in it has been playing a major role in the transformation of digital home entertainment space. The credit goes to the satellite TV service providers, who have made HDTV such a hot cake today.

It all started almost 15 years ago in 1987, when FCC (The Federal Communications Commission) issued a rule stating that that HDTV standard must be compatible with existing NTSC service. However, later in 1990, General Instrument Corporation proposed for an all-digital HDTV system. By the end of 1990, four serious contenders in the United States, ATRC, Zenith HDTV, AT&T, and MIT, announced their digital entry in HDTV system. Then 1993 was a remarkable year in the history of HDTV in the US, when a grand Alliance was formed. The alliance included major players such as, AT&T, GI, MIT, Phillips, Sarnoff, Thomson, and Zenith. Their task was to take the best features from the four HDTV systems and develop a standard HDTV system. They successfully tested it in 1995 and the FCC set it as the HDTV standard.

How Does HDTV work?

You can receive HDTV signals in your home through any of the three broadcast systems, over the air through antenna, cable, and satellite. Although some hurdles regarding digital broadcasting remain unaddressed, they would be addressed soon. For digital broadcasting, a show is first recorded in HD format using HD cameras and equipments. Then, it is distributed digitally over the air, cable or satellite. Now, you just need an HDTV-compatible TV with a HDTV tuner or receiver to decode the digital signal. That is it. Your HDTV is ready. Sit back and enjoy.

Antenna, Digital Cable or Satellite?

Antenna is free of monthly charges, but you will be able to watch the broadcast channels only. You will have to perform certain antenna gymnastics to watch other channels. However, if you can afford a HDTV, you can use cable or satellite as well. If you choose to go with satellite option, you must see if you would get line of sight to the satellite. Sometimes, the beam from the satellite is blocked, for example due to a gigantic tree in your neighborhood. You need to place the satellite dish with a clear view of the northern sky. Therefore, it is highly advisable to visit your neighbors and see how their HDTV's are functioning. 

Analog, Digital and HDTV- A Comparison

Analog: For years, watching TV has involved analog signals. The signal is made of continuing varying radio waves that the TV translates into pictures and sounds. These signals reach your TV over the air, through a cable, or via satellite. Obviously, it can show only standard-definition program such as those found on regular TV, direct TV, Dish TV, cable or satellite.

Digital: Digital television is better known as DTV. A digital signal transmits the information for video and sound as ones and zeroes instead of a wave in a digital format. Digital television has certain advantages over analog. For example picture quality of digital TV is always better irrespective of the size of the screen. It allows multi-casting, and TV stations can broadcast several signals using the same bandwidth. It can also display progressive-scan DVD and can support HDTV broadcast as well.

HDTV: HDTV is by far the most common and advanced form of digital television. It can display almost everything including standard TV, progressive-scan DVD, and HDTV signals.

Issues with HDTV

Distribution

There are two kinds of advocates for HDTV systems. One who feel that HDTV will ultimately be successful outside the conventional channels. Others who feel HDTV is capable and it must use the existing conventional channels. However, there are two options available to cable TV companies. Either they can continue to broadcast conventional NTSC by installing 20 MHz MUSE-type HDTV systems, or they can go with the digital grand aliens systems. This leads to two interesting possibilities of two different HDTV standards – one for terrestrial broadcast and other for cable broadcast.

Bandwidth Limitations

HDTV means a bandwidth of 18 MHz. Therefore, if you decide to move on to HDTV there is a problem, since the current terrestrial channel allocations are limited to 6 MHz only. This way there are three options available to terrestrial broadcast. First, to change the channel allocation system from 6 MHz to 20 MHz; second, to compress the HDTV signal to fit inside the 6 MHz; and third, to allocate multiple channels for the HDTV signal. Out of the three options, only the third one allows compatibility.

HDTV: Myths and Realities

There are so many things to consider before buying a HDTV, given the significant amount of confusions it has created. Most of them are simply myths. We have tried to cover some common concerns regarding HDTV.

Myth: DTV is the same as HDTV

Reality: No. DTV is just another term for Digital TV. DTV is a technology, in which signal is broadcast or received digitally. HDTV is one type of DTV transmission. Where DTV improves picture and sound over analog signals, HDTV offers the highest resolution picture and sound, all digitally.

Myth: Digital cable is the same as HDTV

Reality: No. Digital cable is just an improvement of picture and sound quality over regular analog cable, but in no way it is of high definition.

Myth: Non-HDTV programs cannot be viewed in HDTV

Reality: It is not completely true. You can watch non-HDTV programs on HDTV, but picture quality will suffer a little. Black and gray bars may appear on the left and right side of the screen to set the image in 4:3 aspect ratio.

Myth: We need to fiddle with a switch or wire when changing from satellite to antenna signal.

Reality: The HDTV automatically detects a HDTV station, whether it is being received via antenna or satellite. You just have to use the remote control to change channels.

Myth: All Digital TVs are HDTV compatible

Reality: No, this is not true. Not all Digital TVs are HDTV compatible.

Myth: The quality of HDTV varies with satellite, cable, and antenna

Reality: Quality of picture remains the same irrespective of whether you are receiving signals through antenna, cable or satellite.


Types Of HDTV Sets

The types of HDTV are categorized on the basis of technology, the screen width, and the requirement of either a HDTV tuner or an independent unit. While buying a HDTV, you have to consider these aspects carefully. Let us have a look at each of them separately.

Types of HDTV's Based On Technology

The most popular type is direct view HDTV that uses standard Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) and rear projection technology, similar to the standard TVs. However, this technology is going to get obsolete sooner or later. New advanced technologies are going to take over in the near future. These technologies are cost-saving and loaded with extra features, such as, transmitting clearer and brighter images. The standard TVs stand no chance in competing with this new version, as they are burdened with the production costs and size restrictions. The biggest direct view HDTV comes with a screen width of 36 inches. Besides this, the rear projection technology is shadowed with problems of screen burn in, convergence, and obscurity of image during brightness or at an angle.

The entertainment world has received a breakthrough with the introduction of amazing TV technologies like Plasma TVs, LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon), LCD (liquid crystal displays), and DLP (Digital Light Processor) rear-projection units. Before a decade, one could have never imagined a television that could be hung on the wall! But Plasma TV has made this possible too. Although each of these technologies displays their own advantages and disadvantages, they come with the promise of a better picture quality. The HDTV’s installed with the advanced technologies are, in no case, inferior to the older versions of HDTV.

Plasma TV and LCD Technology

As far as LCD TVs and Plasma TVs are concerned, the technologies provide the benefit of a compact structure. Many new versions of TVs are only a few inches thick and weigh just a fraction of the older versions. The flat LCD TVs with a screen size less than 37 inches are a favorite among the buyers. They are classy and can be placed anywhere. They prove to be a worthwhile substitute for a standard medium-sized television set.

Buyers who wish to stick to the old-fashioned rear projection technology also have an array of options to choose from. However, it is good to skip the tube based rear projection technology now, as micro-display technology is in vogue. Once the angle is adjusted, it provides a sharp picture. CRT based rear projection technology is soon going to become a thing of the past.

While buying a Plasma TV, one should be fully aware of the rewards as well as the shortcomings of the technology, compared to other types of HDTV. One of the things to be careful about Plasma TV is the risk of burn-in. However, this problem has been overstated by some people. In fact, many users of Plasma TV, who watch television for about 7-8 hours daily, have not found anything serious about this burn-in problem. The probability of burn-in is the highest in the initial 100 hours of use. To avoid burn-in, one should keep the TV at low contrast, not more than 50%, and refrain from displaying still images or letterbox bars on the TV screen for several hours continuously.

Once 100 hours of usage is over, Plasma TV becomes long lasting, just like any other standard television. A number of plasma TVs come with burn-in-reduction features, such as pixel orbiting and screensavers. Some of them are programmed with defense mechanisms. For example, if burn-in takes place, the screen goes all white.

DLP Technology

DLP technology is also winning the hearts of many buyers. A wide range of HDTV sets with DLP technology are available in the market. Their picture quality differs with the price and the company that manufactures it. However, DLP technology comes with one minor hitch. A few buyers have reported to come across short stripes of color on their TV screens, especially while viewing bright pictures or images of black fields. However, the manufacturers are in the process of upgrading this technology in order to overcome such minor pitfalls. One should be able to have access to the advanced versions by 2007.

HDTV's based On Screen Width

Before shopping for HDTV, one has to decide between a wide screen TV and a normal size TV. HDTV's with a wide screen have a display ratio of 16:9, while the normal ones have a ratio of 4:3. The image seen in a normal sized TV is mainly square shaped. But the image appearing in wide screen TV appears to be in rectangular form. Wide screen HDTV is akin to the screens used in movie halls and DVD's. It is also the customary configuration for HDTV signals. Wide screen TVs are gaining popularity rapidly. The production of 4:3 format screens is about to be scrapped. TV manufacturers are all set to concentrate on wide screen TVs now. You have to note that Plasma TVs and LCD's are available only in wide screen formats.

Lifespan of Plasma TV

Most of the Plasma TV manufacturers claim their product lifespan to be around 50,000-60,000 hours. This comes to around 20 years. However, even if we consider 30,000 hours, then considering the average TV viewing hours in an American household, which amounts to about 8-9 hours daily, a Plasma TV can work without any flaws for at least 10 years. And after that, the TV loses 50% of its brightness, similar to any standard TV. 

HDTV's are manufactured in many sizes, ranging from 13 inches to 85 inches. There are many leading TV companies that manufacture HDTV's. Samsung, Sony, Panasonic, Toshiba, RCA, Sharp, JVC, Pioneer, Mitsubishi, and Magnavox are some of the big names that boast of producing at least one type of HDTV sets. 

HDTV's with In-Built Tuner and Those without It

One more feature that distinguishes the HDTV's is the incorporation of a HDTV tuner. It is also called a receiver. There are some HDTV's that come without a receiver and one has to install a separate unit for the functioning of the TV.

Most of the HDTV sets available in the market do not contain an incorporated tuner. This is not a disadvantage. On the contrary, the manufacturers find it be quite beneficial, as it cuts down their costs of assembling the parts of an HDTV tuner. Moreover, it also enables them to provide a compact structure to their HDTV sets.

For the buyers too, a HDTV without a tuner is preferable. This is because technologies are never constant. They keep on changing over the years. Tomorrow, one may find a new digital technology coming up in the market. Hence, to ensure a good investment in an HDTV set, it is better to go for a separate tuner, which can be upgraded to keep in pace with the new technology.

Besides this, the cable and satellite operators that are into HDTV programming normally provide a separate tuner. Most of the times, this is included in the subscription package. Thus, one can save the cost of buying a tuner.

Which Type of HDTV to Choose

With a wide variety of HDTV's available in the market, you may get perplexed while choosing the right one. However, there are ways to assist the buyers in deciding which type of HDTV set to buy. There are reviews of customers available in TV shops. These reviews are reliable, as no customer would appreciate a product, if he or she is not satisfied with it. HDTV sets come with varied types, looks, configurations, and prices. One would never be short of choices. Choose the one that suits your budget and lifestyle. HDTV is the perfect choice for anyone who wishes to spruce up their way of living.


HDTV - Key Features And Connectivity Options

HDTV-Capable and HDTV-Ready

One of the commendable features of a digital TV is that it can receive and display both ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) Digital TV signals and NTSC (National Television Systems Committee) Analog TV signals. While shopping for HDTV, one might come across terms like HDTV-Capable and HDTV-Ready. Speaking in layman’s terms, a digital TV that is capable of displaying an HDTV quality image is a HDTV-Capable. However, it is not incorporated with HDTV receiver or tuner, hence, cannot catch a HDTV signal.  Such a digital TV requires a separate HDTV receiver to be connected to the set. Do not be baffled, if the shopkeeper uses terms like Set-Top-Box (STB) or Decoder. They are the names given to HDTV receiver or tuner.

HDTV-Ready is generally used as a substitute of HDTV-Capable. However, one should be clear that HDTV-Ready does not always mean HDTV-Capable. Before installing an independent HDTV tuner, one should always check whether it is attuned to the HDTV set and to the cable or satellite system being used. Also, the independent HDTV tuner should be proficient in receiving Over-The-Air (OTA) television broadcasts.

Remember, “Digital ready" and "HDTV-ready" do not essentially mean that your TV will receive and exhibit digital HDTV programs. Before making the final purchase, always confirm that the HDTV set you have chosen shows real HDTV resolutions. There are some HDTV-Ready sets designed in such a way that they can receive HDTV signals, but cannot display pictures in HDTV Resolutions.

Audio and Video Connectivity

One should purchase a HDTV set that has the highest number of ports, rendering several connectivity options. We have different types of connectors and cables. Their mode of function is different and the type of parts used also varies in each of them. A HDTV set needs appropriate HDTV Cables and connectors.

The following are few examples:

HDTV Video: It has HDMI (High Definition Media Interface), HDTV-Component (Y/Pb/Pr), and DVI (Digital Video Interface)
SDTV Video: It is similar to HDTV or S-Video Connectors. One can use a standard 3-wire RCA. However, it is not advisable.
Standard Stereo: RCA – 2 or 3 wire
Dolby Digital Audio: Digital Coax; Fiber Optic
Analog Video: Use a standard 3-wire RCA

In some sets, one may find some extra ports in the front or in the sides. It becomes handier to add connections with such ports.

One cannot have each and every connection available in the world in the HDTV set. One has to decide what connections one wishes to have, for example, Video Game, VCR, DVD, PVR/DVR/HD-DVR, PC, A/V Receiver, Set-Top-Box, and so on. The number of ports and their types are based on the decision regarding the connections. Also, the types of connections reflect how soon the HDTV set will get outdated. Hence, one should not decide in haste, but look out for all possibilities and then make the final nod.

Remember, one cannot have innumerable ports in a HDTV set.

HDTV Tuner or Receiver

It is also called Set-Top-Box or Decoder. This is a necessity for the functioning of a HDTV set. Without its installation, HDTV cannot receive the signals, which include satellite, cable, high definition digital-VHS recording, Over-The-Air broadcasts, and HD-DVD. The Set-Top-Box also displays DVD with progressive scan and HDTV-capable video games.

As mentioned earlier, one should always confirm whether the Set-Top-Box or HDTV receiver is compatible with the HDTV set.

Some set-top-boxes are meant exclusively for using with a particular cable or satellite service. One can also get a separate HDTV tuner for accepting OTA Broadcasts. One needs to contact the cable operator for transforming the cable Set-Top-Box to an HDTV Set-Top-Box.

Extra Features

There are other added features to look into before installing the HDTV set in the house. These features depend on a series of conditions, such as the mode of receiving the HDTV signals, the kind of display one wants, the type of components already installed, and others.

There are added components available with HDTV dealers. Sometimes they are a necessity, while at other times they may be an individual choice. For instance, a digital HDTV-Capable set needs a separate HDTV tuner; a few of the Plasma TVs do not have any audio components incorporated in them; a Front Projection TV set may not boast of an in-built decoder; and so on.  
You need to do a little pondering over the connectivity options before leaving the shop with the sleek new HDTV set.

Be sure about the following things before tossing the credit card on the counter of the shop:

The length of the cables and their compatibility with all audio-video connections.

Need of some special cables, connectors, or converters.

Need of another or some specific sized "satellite-dish" for unobstructed receiving of HDTV Signals from satellite service.

The way to upgrade cable set-top-box to HDTV set-top-box, if you have satellite or cable service. Sometimes, you may require an integration of set-top-box and HDTV receiver to catch the HDTV signals from the source.

Surge protectors.

Although Surge protectors are crucial, beware of certain cheap devices that are supposed to be surge protectors but do not provide any protection. Also, do not think that expensive devices are always the best ones. Check the device before purchasing. This is the most sensible thing to do. Cost of any product does not reflect its true performance.

Over-The-Air (OTA) Antenna

If one wishes the HDTV to receive Over-The-Air (OTA) Digital TV or HDTV Broadcasts, one has to set up a specific TV antenna. You should know how far the transmitters are located from your house. The type of antenna depends on this distance. If the source of transmission is nearby, then a simple set-top antenna, characterized with its rabbit-ear shape can work for you.

Do not fall in the trap of some people suggesting the setting up of HDTV-Capable antenna. There is no such thing. In order to accept HDTV signals, one only needs to arrange a superior UHF antenna, or in some places, maybe a VHF-UHF combined antenna.

Those who reside at the periphery of the broadcast range of local station, which is about 50 miles; they may need an antenna meant for the greatest reception. Such antenna may be expensive. 

Amplifiers and Antenna Rotors

Amplifiers can remarkably enhance the reception. However, the opposite can happen too. An ill-assorted amplifier can worsen the reception. Besides this, trees, high-rise buildings, undulating topography, or the presence of some electronic waves can interfere with the reception. Moreover, a number of local stations transmit the digital HDTV signals at considerably reduced wavelengths. This becomes difficult for even the superior quality antenna to catch the signals from far away places.

An Antenna Rotor facilitates the exact positioning of the antenna. If there is more than one transmitting tower situated in various directions in the premises of your location, the use of an antenna rotor becomes even more important. If you want to shop for an Antenna Rotor, prefer the newly designed ones. They come with the benefit of a digital controller, which can be held in the hands. This one is a good buy.

Verify and Then Buy

Remember; buy only when you are sure of the product. If any doubt ruffles your mind, do not ignore it. Do not hesitate to inquire about the product. If you are not convinced with the information, check out some other shop. A fully aware customer will never regret his or her investment in the purchased product.


LCD HDTV Or Plasma HDTV

If you are looking for a flat-screen, slim and classic HDTV, you have two choices, LCD HDTV and Plasma HDTV. A few years ago, it was an easy task to make a decision. If you wanted a 40-inch or bigger flat screen, the only available option was Plasma HDTV, otherwise you should have chosen LCD. However, things have changed now with the improved technology of LCD HDTV's. Now, to decide which one is better is not an easy task. Both the versions of HDTV's have their benefits and disadvantages. Therefore, each one is better in certain circumstances. The following details will certainly help you to choose one that best suits your requirements. After you have gone through all these details, you will have a better idea of which HDTV is right for you.

How do the two technologies work?

Plasma HDTV

Phosphor, a chemical compound, is the heart of a Plasma HDTV. The light you see on a plasma screen is caused by these phosphors. Each pixel in a Plasma HDTV is made up of three types of phosphors, red, blue, and green. When beams of electrons strike with these phosphors, they emit light. The amount of light depends upon the intensity of the electron beams.

LCD HDTV

Where phosphors play a major role in the technology of Plasma HDTV's, in LCD HDTV's, it is crystals. Crystals, in the form of liquid, is sandwiched between transparent panels. There is a bright florescent light behind these panels. The sandwiched crystals are instructed to either let the light pass or not. Color filters are also used, which determine the color.

Does size matter?

Since both Plasma and LCD TVs are large screen televisions, size does not matter that much. However, if you consider viewing area by size, Plasma TVs have always been a good choice. Again, you can find more varieties of Plasma TVs in comparison to LCD TVs. On the other hand, if by size you mean the size of your bank account, it matters indeed. For the same size, Plasma TVs are normally less expensive.

Viewing Angle

The viewing angle is the feature that determines how far off to the side you can sit from the TV and still see the picture clearly. It is very important to consider the viewing angle because not all of your family members can sit literally in front of the TV. When it comes to viewing angle, Plasma TV has a definite edge over LCD's. Some LCD-manufacturers claim that the 170-degree field of vision offered by them allows accurate viewing. That is not true at all. You may be able to see what is happening at that angle, but it is not the same as sitting more directly head on.

Issues with Plasma and LCD HDTV's

There are certain issues with both Plasma and LCD HDTV's. The following details will help you understand them.

Problems with the Dead Pixels

There are certain problems with pixels in both the televisions. Sometimes pixel is always ON. For example, it lit up when the screen is black. Sometimes the pixel is always OFF. For example, it looks black when it should have color. You must buy your HDTV from reputed manufacturers, because in that case there are lesser possibilities of such problems. Again, if you face any such problem, reputed manufacturers take care of it.

Which Is Better For Fast Moving Actions?

A common belief is that Plasma TVs are better than LCD TVs in this regard. This is even true indeed. When you watch an action on LCD TV, for example, a football player moving down the field, the edges of his body might look somewhat fuzzy. You might find some jagged and blocky lines instead of a clean one, which is not the case with a Plasma TV.

Burn-in Effect

One of the biggest potential negatives with Plasma TVs is the ‘Burn-in’ effect. This is where LCD HDTV's have a definite edge over the Plasma HDTV. LCD panels do not suffer from ‘Burn-in’ effect. ‘Burn-in’ happens when an image stays on the screen for an extended period and then image literally burns in the screen. It means that even when the image is not present, you can still see a faint trace of the image on the TV screen. Hence, for video gamers and sports lovers, LCD HDTV is definitely a better choice than the Plasma TV.

Life Span

In general, the life span of both LCD and Plasma HDTV's is good. With time and technology, it is getting better indeed. Still, LCD HDTV's have an edge over Plasma versions when it comes to life span because their light source can be replaced, but once a plasma TV gets faded image, you cannot replace it. However, replacing bulbs on an LCD can cost you as much as a few thousand dollars. If we believe what manufacturers claim, then both LCD and Plasma TV last at least 30,000 hours before any noticeable depreciation in the image quality. Hence, if you watch television 10 hours a day, you would not have any problem for the next eight years, and if you watch television just for 4 hours a day, you would get over 20 years of viewing before seeing any depreciation.

Overall Picture Quality

This is perhaps the most important area of consideration while choosing between Plasma and LCD HDTV's. Picture quality rather depends on your personal taste. Both of the TVs have their own qualities. Choice is yours.

Color

A common belief is that LCD TVs produce sharper pictures with more realistic colors. The truth is somewhat different. In Plasma HDTV you will find realistic and a wider range of colors. LCD TVs give you a vibrant, primary colors type of feel. Plasma TVs give subtler, warmer pastels, but perhaps more accurate. However, at the end of the day, it all depends on your personal taste.

Brightness

LCD TVs tend to be brighter and more colorful while plasma TVs tend to be warmer with more accurate color reproduction. However, most people believe that LCD HDTV's perform better in bright-light condition than the Plasma HDTV's.

Black Levels

Plasma TV has the ability to produce deep black colors. Dark color on LCD TV is a somewhat complicated process. Instead of deep black, LCD TVs produce dark gray. When you become used to the set’s color, this goes unnoticed. Still, technically, Plasma scores an edge in this regard.

Prices
Plasma TVs have established something of a better reputation than LCD TVs. Even when it comes to price, they are less expensive. LCD technology is new, and after a few years they may be available at lower prices and with better features than Plasma TVs. However, in the present scenario, Plasma HDTV has a definite edge over LCD TVs. 

Technologies are changing rapidly, but for now, it is still true that for sizes of 40-inch and above, Plasma HDTV's offer a less expensive and a better resolution, while for screen sizes less than 40-inch LCD HDTV is better.


HDTV Display Systems

Pictures in HDTV look sharper and clearer than that of regular TVs. The quality of the high definition broadcast signal is such that the images you see life like images. This incredible picture quality makes you feel as if you are on the soccer field, when you are watching a soccer match. If you are watching a movie on your HDTV, you would feel like you are sitting in the front seat of a movie theatre.

Wide Screen

The hallmark of a HDTV is its rectangular wide screen and the high resolution of display. The way the picture is transmitted and displayed on the screen depends upon its aspect ratio. The aspect ratio is the width to height ratio of a TV monitor or its program format. In comparison to the 4:3 aspect ratio of the old analog TV, which has a square appearance, the wide screen of HDTV has a 16:9 viewing aspect ratio. This makes the real difference that why the later leads to a better visual and acoustic enjoyment of watching television.

Why Wide Screen Display Is Better?

The simple reason is that the wider view is closer to the human vision. Our vision is optimized within a 30-degree field, and beyond 30-degree there is no visible benefit. The central area of this field provides us the best view, but the peripheral vision is better at detecting motion. Where the 4:3 aspect ratio of analog television allows us only a 10-degree field of vision, HDTV allows us a complete 30-degree.

Note: Do not confuse the aspect ratio with the screen size. The screen size is the diagonal measurement. HDTV comes in multiple sizes, but the aspect ratio is always 16:9.

Resolution

HDTV comes in two different resolutions – 1080i and 720p. The ‘i’ in 1080i means interlaced, and the ‘p’ in 720p means progressive. In both the resolutions, every second consists of 60 frames of video.

Progressive Resolution

Progressive resolution puts 60 full frames on the screen every second. The 720p video resolution is 1280 X 720 pixels, which gives 921,600 total pixels.

Interlaced Resolution

Unlike progressive resolution, interlaced resolution puts half and half, 30 frames of odd lines and 30 frames of even lines, on the screen every second. Some people complain that it causes flickers on screen. However, the fact is you see the complete image on your TV screen two times more often, which results in smoother motion, and the flickers, if at all they exist are not visible. The 1080i video resolution is 1920 X 1080, which gives whopping 2,073,000 pixels.

What is pixel, and how does it make a difference?

A TV screen is made up of small picture elements known as pixels.  Each pixel constitutes three closely spaced dot colors – red, blue and green. Combined together on the TV’s phosphor screen, and when viewed from a distance, the colors are seen as one. The pixels in the analog system are slightly taller than their width while in HDTV they are 4.5 times smaller, spaced closer, and square in shape. This enables HDTV to display 4.5 times more detail than analog television.

Which resolution is better?

It is nothing like which one is better. Both 720p and 1080i have their own qualities. Though not quite visible but technically the displayed images on 1080i slightly flickers. This causes a psychological difference, and some people like the slightly more ‘stable’ picture of 720p, while others prefer the whopping resolution of 1080i. If you find it difficult to decide, our only suggestion is that you run down to your local TV store and see for yourself. After all, the beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.

Different TV display technologies

There are three different formats, which offer the HD technology.

CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) – This paints the images onto the screen. The style is perfect in any lighting condition and from every angle.

Plasma Display – It has an ultra-thin design, and it displays digital images at a high resolution. The major drawback is that it is costly and picture quality is affected, as it does not display black color efficiently. Moreover, many plasma displays do not display HDTV resolution.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) – It uses two different polarized, transparent panel to house a liquid in the middle. It is thin in design but there are certain size limitations. Picture quality is good for static displays only. When it comes to display images in motion, LCD does not perform well. Moreover, many LCD displays are not HDTV capable.


How To Judge The Picture Quality Of HDTV

When you are buying a HDTV, picture quality is the most difficult thing to judge. This section offers some important tips which will help you to judge the ‘good’ picture quality of a HDTV.

It is time to head to the electronic store and check out the TV sets. A large store allows you to compare a bunch of sets at the same time. The real problem is all the TV sets might be showing high definition programs, but the chances are high that not all of them might be properly adjusted. Therefore, the pictures you see there might look good, but in fact, they differ from their inherent quality. Your job starts now.

High Brightness Does Not Mean Good Picture Quality

While reviewing the HDTV sets ask for the remote control from the sales person. Press the Menu button in the remote control to bring up a list of options, and select Video or Picture Adjustments. You will find that the contrast is set at 100%, with the same for sharpness. Yes, almost every store sets their television sets at the brightest picture settings. You cannot judge the true picture quality at this setting. Set the sharpness at a low percent that halos disappear from the edges of objects and set contrast in such a way that highlights are no longer out of balance with the rest of the picture. At stores, they also set the color temperature too high. Because of this, whites look bluish. See, if the set has a color-temperature setting, generally called Low or Warm. Use that. Again, most HDTV's have a custom or pro mode. Set the TV at that mode. This will help the picture look more natural. Once you have done all this, you have done almost half of the job.

Amount of Light in the Room

Generally, electronic stores are flooded with light. See if the salesperson can reduce the amount of light shining on the picture. If that is not possible, try to shade the screen if light is shining directly on it.

Use DVD's to Check Picture Quality

That is right. DVD's provide the best picture a television can display. Therefore, bring a few of your favorite DVD's with you, and see if you can use it instead of the TV signal that is normally shown. Playing a couple of your pre-selected “reference” scenes on a number of TVs will give you a quick point of comparison. This will help you judge the true picture quality of your HDTV. If the store shows a negative attitude for using your own discs, it probably does not deserve your business.

Try Out All the Picture Modes

Most of the HDTV's come with numerous picture modes, such as movie, sports, standard and mild. Try all these modes, and see how every mode affects the appearance of the picture.

Check Out Colors

Pay attention to how the primary colors, red, green and blue look on a set. Does grass look natural, or is it too vibrant? Pay particular attention to the red color. See if they are overbearing, or blotchy looking. Check whether red color appears like orange color. These checking would help you to judge the picture quality of your HDTV more precisely.

Stability of Image

Try scenes where the camera moves across a background with plenty of diagonal lines, like stadium bleachers or a row of windows. Is the image stable, or does it break up and lose resolution?

Geometry and Convergence

Look toward the edges of the screen, preferably with graphics or other straight lines. You can try out CNN's crawling ticker. That works great. See if the lines are actually straight. To check convergence, look at the corners with white material, preferably lines again, and see if faint halos of color surround the white.

Picture-In-Picture (PIP)

If you feel it important, see if the set allows you to use picture-in-picture with all kinds of programs. Can you use it with a high-definition signal? Can you use all of the inputs as PIP sources? Answers for these questions would help you to choose the right HDTV set.


HDTV with DVI/HDCP

A HDTV without DVI/HDCP is on the verge of becoming obsolete within a year or two. According to a report by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) the over-the-air signals throughout the US are going to be converted to pure digital formats from January 1, 2007. Hence, a HDTV without DVI/HDCP will be worthless after that.

HDCP - High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection

HDCP (High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection) is an important connection that has brought a new wave of high definition entertainment choices for customers. HDCP ensures safe digital connection between superior quality HDTV and set-top-box. It is not only good news for customers, but also for content providers.

Intel Corporation is the developer of HDCP. Currently, it is being made available and preserved by Digital Content Protection LLC. Hence, it becomes necessary for the manufacturers of consumer electronics to get a license to ensure that the copyrights of content delivered via DVI connections are safe. In fact, this is a means to make the manufacturers to dance to the tunes of content providers. In other words, one can say that Hollywood striving to utilize DVI to retrieve control of their content.

DVI - Digital Visual Interface

DVI (Digital Visual Interface) enables a high-speed uncompressed link between a HDTV set and personal computer or any other DVI-based electronic appliance. The biggest advantage of DVI is the uncompressed transmission of high definition video. It is not visible when you receive the high definition programming; it undergoes a transformation from the source, through the set-top box, and to the TV screen.

The good thing about DVI is that only one component cable is needed to transmit the red-blue-green signal and the speed of picture delivery is remarkably greater than the analog component cables. This makes the viewing experience on Plasma TVs, DLP, and LCD's, an enjoyable one.

DVI/HDCP sends image in an uncompressed layout. Hence, it supports real intricate graphic displays and user interfaces that are found in program guides and other features meant for HDTV. The absolute power transmitted through the DVI connection allows the display devices to maintain the picture quality created by content providers and set-top boxes. This gives good viewing experience to the customers.

Always purchase a HDTV with DVI/HDCP

For a worthy investment, it is best to purchase a HDTV or any other consumer electronics appliance (DVR, DVD player, or set-top-box) with either DVI/HDCP, or HDMI/HDCP. Within a year or two, DVI will change to HDMI, which is the next version of DVI. HDMI requires a small size, handy connector and offers a longer range of transmission. It is also capable of transmitting multiple types of video signals. HDMI has immense scope for expansion and is also encouraged by some of the big manufacturers of consumer electronics. Hence, HDMI is here to stay for long. It would not be advisable to purchase a HDTV without either DVI/HDCP or HDMI/HDCP. A TV without either of these technologies will soon become useless and obsolete.

Alas! There are a number of TV dealers, who have still not realized the significance of DVI/HDCP. A slew of new exclusive TVs are launched in the market without DVI/HDCP input.

CRT HDTV with DVI/HDCP

TV sets based on CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) technology can also enjoy the benefit of DDVI/HDCP. This is because CRT HDTV's convert the signal to digital form for transmission. However, CRT HDTV may not get benefit equal to that received by digital HDTV's.

Tips for Buyers