The SDTV Revolution: The Facts about Digital TV
by Jessica Santina
Home Improvement Ideas Columnist
On February 17, 2009, TV as we know it will disappear forever. It's part of the "Deficit Reduction Act," requiring broadcasters to begin sending programming via a digital signal, now called Standard Definition (Digital) Television, or SDTV.
Today's analog TV signals take up a considerable amount of space on the highly-coveted, fast-moving part of the radio spectrum. With the prevalence of wireless technology, including use by public safety agencies, that space is getting awfully crowded. Something has to change.
How Will This Affect You?
SDTV takes up far less space on the spectrum, and it also allows broadcasters to transmit several channels of programming, offering consumers more choices. SDTV offers superior picture quality over analog, and it allows consumers to receive HDTV, one format of SDTV.
You can buy a digital television, which allows you to take full advantage of SDTV's superior picture quality and wider screen. Or you can keep your analog set and do one of the following:
- If you receive your TV signal over the air, you can purchase a new antenna and an analog-to-digital video converter box, which will look similar to a set top box for digital cable or satellite. The government will provide up to two $40 vouchers per household to help cover the costs of this transition.
- For cable or satellite subscribers, you'll need a new SDTV receiver and other special equipment. Talk to your provider to discuss the particulars of this change.
What's the Difference Between SDTV and HDTV?
Many people have a hard time understanding the difference between HDTV and digital TV, or SDTV. Analog TV sets provide a resolution of 480 horizontal lines. An HDTV set has 1080 lines, so the difference in resolution is stunningly clear. HDTV programs also offer Dolby digital surround sound. BUT - an SDTV set is NOT necessarily an HDTV set. HDTV is just one of the 18 SDTV formats. You won't be required to buy an HDTV set.
So now you're ready for the TV revolution - 2009, here we come!
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About the Author
Jessica Groach-Santina is a freelance writer with a background in media and promotions. She also teaches first-year writing courses at the University of Nevada, Reno.
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