The road to HDTV hasn't been a smooth one. Lack of logical leadership from the government side has caused confusion over standards and timetables. In addition, initial lack of enthusiastic co-operation between broadcasters, cable/satellite providers, and manufacturers injected further confusion for retailers on how to sell HDTV and consumers as what products to buy, how to use them, and to what HDTV programs are actually available. However, now with the DTV Transition switcheover now scheduled for June 12, 2009, the television broadcasters, cable, and satellite providers are on getting onboard.
There are more local TV stations installing the needed hardware to implement HDTV, and most local network outlets are actually broadcasting their live news programs in High Definition. Satellite services and a Cable TV providers are providing an increasing number of HDTV feeds. Programming providers, such as Showtime, HBO, Discovery, ESPN, HDnet, and all of the major networks (ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, FOX, and CW) are dedicating more broadcast hours to HDTV programming. In addition, the access of other high definition sources, such as Blu-ray Disc also provide an additional way for consumers to access high definition content to view on an HDTV.
However, despite the increased availability of programming and steady turnover to HDTV broadcasting, there is still some confusion for the average consumer. The following are common FAQs that I get asked frequently on the subject of Digital TV/HDTV. Just click on the questions to access the answers. In addition, be sure to check the additional resource links in the upper right of the HDTV FAQ pages. Lastly, watch for updates and additions to the following FAQ list and resources as the need arises.
What is the Difference Between Digital TV and Analog TV?
What is the Difference Between Digital TV and HDTV?
What is There To Watch on HDTV?
What do I Need to Get to be Able to Watch HDTV?
Will My Current TV Still Work After The DTV Transition Cut-off Date?
Why are Black Bars Sometimes Still Visible on a 16x9 HDTV?
Why Does Analog Video Often Look Worse on an HDTV than on an Analog TV?
