Home Theater Term of the Week - Upscaling

Upscaling is a process that mathematically matches the pixel count of the output of a standard or non-hi-def signal (such as standard DVD) to the physical pixel count on an HDTV, which is typically 1280x720 (720p), 1920x1080 (1080i), or 1920x1080 (1080p).

720p represents 1,280 pixels displayed across the screen horizontally and 720 pixels down the screen vertically. This arrangement yields 720 horizontal lines on the screen, which are, in turn, displayed progressively, or each line displayed following another.

1080i represents 1,920 pixels displayed across a screen horizontally and 1,080 pixels down a screen vertically. This arrangement yields 1,080 horizontal lines, which are, in turn, displayed alternately (interlaced). In other words, all the odd lines are displayed, followed by all the even lines.

1080p represents 1,920 pixels displayed across a screen horizontally and 1,080 pixels down a screen vertically. However, each row of pixels is scanned sequentially. In other words, all lines are scanned progressively, providing the most detailed high definition video image that is currently available to consumers.

For additional terms and definitions, check out my Home Theater Glossary