What is an HDTV?

The first time HDTV or high-definition television was introduced into the market, movie buffs, techies and sports fans became wild with excitement because this new technology would allow them to watch television with amazing resolution and superb digital surround sound.

In addition, a HDTV will allow a user to watch movies without the irritating "black bars" that usually come with various movie formats. Meaning, HDTV gives users the benefit of watching the original widescreen format.

With its sudden boom during its initial release, the HDTV became the most sought-after gadget for television-watching purposes. Unfortunately, since most high-definition televisions in the market are surrounded with confusing and technological abbreviations and terms, choosing the best HDTV can become a confusing task.

If you don't want to end up with a television with ordinary visual and audio, then you need to understand the differences between analog and HDTV formats to determine if you really need an upgrade for your watching enjoyment.

Features of High-Definition Television

Technically, a HDTV provides a better screen resolution. That means it can easily provide you with better visual presentation whether you are watching the NBA finals or enjoying a good DVD movie. The highlight of a high-definition television is its ability to play "wide screen". Compared to the earlier "analog TV" that only plays cropped (pan-and=scan) movies, your movies can now have wider pictures that are similar to the images on the screen of movie theaters. So, you can watch your favorite show with a crisper and finer visual display.

Another good thing about HDTV's is that they can easily complement other analog video equipment, such as camcorders, DVD players, VCRs and gaming consoles. Moreover, with its impressive audio capabilities, playing games and watching movies can give a whole new level of experience.

When choosing a high-definition television, make sure that the item has a resolution of at least 1280 x 720 pixels. To ensure this resolution will not be downgraded by the television set, look for a set with a fast response time and high contrast. HDTV may come in many forms and with a number of add-ons or choices for connecting audio-visual equipment. Depending on your needs, the most practical choice is to go with a television set with DVI (digital video interface) and HDMI (high-definition media interface).

To get the best out of high-definition TV, you should consider getting a set with a resolution of 1920x1080p (the "p" stands for progressive scan). Some HDTVs have a vertical resolution of 1080i (the "i" stands for interlaced). Interlaced pictures alternate between showing the odd numbered lines and the even numbered lines 60 times a second (50 times a second if you're in Europe). The result is that you may notice flicker in high-brightness areas of the picture.

Progressive scan sets show all the lines in the picture at the same time, so no flicker. 1080p sets are at the forefromt of HDTV technology and are the most expensive sets available (for any given screen size).

Make sure the HDTV you buy supports at least a 720p vertical resolution. HDTV is broadcast in two resolutions (720 lines and 1080 lines). Some HDTVs have a resolution of 1024x1024. Since the vertical resolution of these TV sets sits between 720 and 1080, the pictures from the source material either has to be scaled up or down, resulting in some loss of picture detail. In all likelihood, you won't even notice the difference. But if you want a future-proof HDTV, get a set with 720p vertical resolution (that "p" is important). Better still, get a 1080p HDTV. You won't regret it.

Looking for an HDTV can be a confusing task. However, with the right information and preferred specifications, you can easily narrow down high-definition televisions in the market and arrive at the best HDTV to suit your needs and add to your entertainment solutions at home.