In addition to DVD, progressive scan is applied to DTV and HDTV as well. Standard definition DTV is broadcast in 480p (the same characteristics as progressive scan DVD - 480 lines or pixel rows progressively scanned) and HDTV is broadcast at either 720p (720p lines or pixel rows progressively scanned) or 1080i (1,080 lines or pixel rows that are alternately scanned fields made up of 540 lines each). In order to receive these signals, you need an HDTV with either a built-in HDTV tuner or an external HD tuner, HD Cable, or Satellite box.
What You Need To Access Progressive Scan
In order to access progressive scan, both the source component, such as a DVD player, HD cable, or satellite box, and the Television display need to be progressive scan capable. The progressive scan signal is transferred from the source component to the television via either a progressive scan component video output or other type of connection, such as DVI (Digital Video Interface) or HDMI (High Definition Multi-media Interface) that allows the transfer of standard and high-definition progressive scan images to a similarly equipped television.
On DVD players, the progressive scan signal is sent via component video connections, which are labeled Y, Pb, Pr, or via HDMI or DVI connections. Component video connections labeled Y,Cb,Cr transfer only interlaced signals. In addition, standard AV and S-Video connections do not transfer progressive scan video images. If you hookup a progressive scan output to a non-progressive scan TV input, you will not get an image. In addition, in order to view progressive scan with reverse 3:2 pulldown, either the DVD player or Television need to have 3:2 pulldown detection. The preference would be for the DVD player have the 3:2 pulldown detection and actually perform the reverse pulldown function, with a progressive scan capable television displaying the image as fed from the DVD player. There are menu options in both a progressive scan DVD player and a progressive scan capable television that will assist you setting up a progressive scan capable DVD player and television or video projector.
Conclusion
When you shop for a DVD player and new television, you will find the term progressive scan tossed around by the salesperson, just like watts-per-channel is bandied about concerning audio systems. You will hear the salesperson tell you how much you need it and that you can't settle for less or do without it. However, there are other factors to consider. If you are planning to use the DVD player with an older TV that doesn't have progressive scan inputs, then this feature does you no good. On the other hand, if you are planning to use the DVD player with a HD-upgradable or HDTV that has progressive scan capability, then it definitely makes sense to purchase a progressive scan DVD player.
Hopefully, in this article, I have shed some light on what the nature of progressive scan is and how it can improve your DVD home theater viewing experience. As this article was constructed to give a brief overview of this topic, be sure to check out the additional resources I have listed in the side link boxes for more technical information on the nature and application of progressive scan.
