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INFORMATION ON DIGITAL TELEVISION
Information on Digital Television
Digital Television
In April 1997, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced that by
2006, all television broadcasting will be digital. However, television stations are
required to continue broadcasting regular TV signals along side the digital signals until
2006. Cable and satellite TV are not affected by the FCC ruling.
According to the FCC, digital broadcasting must be available in the top 30 markets,
covering 50% of households, by the end of 1999.
The FCC has allocated to each of the broadcasters a fixed amount of transmitting
"space" for digital programming. At the highest resolution, High Definition (HDTV),
one (1) or two (2) programs can be transmitted within this "space." At lower
resolutions, Standard Definition (SDTV), several programs can be simultaneously
transmitted. Broadcasters will choose their own broadcast formats. For example,
they may choose to broadcast day programs in SDTV and night sports and movies in
HDTV. Digital Television (DTV) broadcasting will deliver crystal-clear pictures,
approaching the quality of 35mm movies, and compact disc (CD) sound.
HDTV (High Definition Television)
HDTV signal formats are 1080i (interlaced scan) and 720p (progressive scan). HDTV
provides the highest resolution picture and audio in either stereo or 5.1 channel
surround sound.
SDTV (Standard Definition Television)
SDTV signal formats are 480p and 460i. SDTV provides lower resolution, yet
presents a very sharp clear picture. Lower resolution allows broadcasters to transmit
multiple programs per channel.
Digital Broadcasting and Cable TV
The FCC has not mandated any standards for cable operators or satellite
broadcasters at the time this manual is printed. Some cable companies have
announced plans to introduce digital cable boxes into their markets. They may
choose, however, to use the digital capability to increase the number of channels
available or to provide data capability, such as high speed modem rather than transmit
HDTV programming.
Contact your local cable provider to determine if digital cable is available and
whether a cable box is needed for converting the signals.
Receiving Digital Broadcasts
Most households will be able to receive a digital broadcast by regular antenna with
VHF/UHF reception capability. However, like regular TV signals, it will depend on
location, terrain and environmental factors. Outdoor or attic antennas will generally be
more effective than a set-top antenna. For cable, check with your local cable provider
to find out if they will carry the DTV signal in your area.
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