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.
Throughout the world's television's history, industry giants and the Federal Communications Commission have worked to incorporate technological advances and higher definition options. These options have been made easier as bandwidth standards have improved over time.
Adoption of this type of broadcasting was slow to be picked up. Standardization was a difficult process due to technical and economic reasons, which prevented satellite distribution and recording. Japan, nonetheless, first made the switch from analog to digital, high-definition TV airing in 2007.
Europe followed suit and first introduced the technique by airing Vienna New Year's concert in HD on the HD1 channel in 2004. The U. S. Has also made strides in developing high-def programming. It was first introduced to the market in the 90's by the Digital HDTV Grand Alliance, with the first broadcast airing in 1996 out of North Carolina. The country is working to make a full switch away from standard-definition television.
Particular frame sizes and rates, as well as scanning systems, characterize HDTV. As a result of such specifications and technological advances, the resolution is nearly twice as high as standard-definition TV, which creates much better picture quality.
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.
Traditionally, these television products have been available for in-store purchase with in-home installation. Now, however, online purchases are becoming more common and available around the country.
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.
Despite higher prices and the need for new equipment, many customers are ditching their analog TV sets to go digital. They cannot resist the higher picture quality, even on smaller screens. Companies enjoy the ability to "multicast", or the ability air multiple signals and information at the same time with the same bandwidth. In spite of the major disadvantage of having to invest in new equipment and lack of compatibility between analog and digital system, high-def systems are selling well and appear to be the new system to have.
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