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2. INTRODUCTION: THE BASICS
About the Digital Television Picture
Your new Westinghouse High Definition LCD TV has a built-in HDTV/NTSC tuner,
meaning it can receive both analog and digital broadcasts from your antenna,
cable or satellite service. But because not all broadcasters have converted to the
new DTV standards, it’s important to understand some fundamentals of the digital
television picture.
The elements that make up onscreen images are pixels. The more pixels, the
more detail, because the number of pixels determines picture resolution—and
HDTV offers the highest pixel count and best resolution available. HDTV
resolution is available in both 720p and 1080i formats. The "p" and "i" refer to the
scanning method used to deliver the lines of resolution on the screen.
Progressive "p" scanning means that pixels on the screen are refreshed
simultaneously, with each scan showing every line for a complete picture at 1/60
th
of a second. Interlaced "i" scanning refreshes pixels by alternating first, by
showing every odd line, then following with the even lines—for a complete picture
at 1/30
th
of a second.
True high definition image quality is possible only with a true high definition
display—and a 720p or 1080i signal coming into your HDTV. Lower resolution
images from analog broadcasts or VHS recordings, for example, may result in
disappointing picture quality as they simply don’t have enough detail to display
well in high-definition. If you have cable or satellite service, you’ll want to check
with your provider to determine which packages include stations broadcasting in
high definition, and if you need a different box or tuner to receive HDTV signals.
You may also find the “Aspect Ratio” feature found in the On Screen Display
Menu’s “Display” option helpful in adjusting your picture. And, as more and more
broadcasters change to a digital signal, you will be able to view all of your
programming choices in stunning high definition—and the luxury of your personal
home theater experience.