HDTV: The World's New Broadcasting

By Mel Loewe

High-definition television, also referred to as HDTV, is a digital television broadcasting system that a larger portion of the world has begun to adopt. This new system has started to replace analog, or standard-definition broadcasting systems.

As bandwidth and standards for television programming have changed over the decades, high definition television options have been adopted by the Federal Communication Commission and TV industry.

Initially, economic and technological barriers made standardization of the new digital programming very difficult; however, Japan was able to successfully make the complete switch from analog broadcasting in the year 2007.

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Europe first launched high-def capabilities in 2004. The United States was slower to abandon analog, but first saw HDTV in the 1990s when a large group of television companies banded together to introduce it. 1996 saw the first high-definition broadcast in North Carolina, with other states following thereafter.

The three main aspects of high-def TV are frame size, scanning system and frame rate, all of which are specific to this type of broadcast. This influences resolution, which is twice that of standard-def TV, allowing for greater detail.

HD television requires specific equipment, including a HD-ready television, tuner and cable box with cable card slot. Because equipment specifications vary by location, it is best to consult with cable professionals before purchase or installation.

The newer, more advanced high-definition system allows for video storage and recording of live broadcasts. TiVo is one of the most widely known cable boxes allowing for such recording, as well as the ability to view more than one program at the same time.

Due to America's nation wide switch to digital viewing capabilities, the Federal Communications Commission has regulated the market, forcing cable providers to offer set-top boxes that allow them to record and store information upon signing up for service.

Currently, cable companies have begun offering online purchases of televisions and cable boxes, as opposed to the typical in-store purchase with home installation. However, many customers prefer purchasing their equipment at the store, as it prevents complications with shipping and installation.

High-def TV sets can range in price from as low as four hundred dollars to more than five thousand dollars, depending on the retailer and model. Some have been sold for as much as fifteen thousand dollars. It is expected that as high-definition television becomes increasingly popular, prices will begin and continue to drop, making it easier and more attainable for most consumers.

There are several advantages to HD. This includes better picture quality, regardless of the screen size. Editing of the pictures allows for better video progression as opposed to the cutting short of frames in analog broadcasting. Also, stations can air several signals with the same bandwidth, also known as "multicasting". This new system also allows for additional and interactive content. The major disadvantage of this new system is that it is not compatible with analog TVs, which cannot decode or display the signals. This requires converters or the purchase of a new television set. - 32388

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