High Definition is the latest revolution sweeping the television industry. It allows viewers to see images with clarity they never imagined could come from their home set. As the prices of HD Sets continue to plummet, the use of this exciting new technology is spreading wildly. Currently, Nielsen estimates that nearly 14 percent of American homes are already equipped to handle High Definition, and that number is growing rapidly.
High Definition provides viewers with up to 1,080 horizontal lines of resolution. Simply put, this means the picture is more than twice as sharp as ordinary televisions that often broadcast with 480 lines or less. Those extra lines result in eye-popping picture clarity.
High Definition comes in a variety of formats, the two most common being 720p and 1080i. While there are differences in both the lines of resolution and on-screen presentation of each format, they are very similar in picture quality.
1080i delivers the most lines of resolution available through broadcast. Its video uses a series of interlaced pixels that can begin to blur slightly with faster moving action. 1080i is an excellent choice for standard broadcasts like sitcoms and talk shows.
720p delivers fewer lines of resolution but its progressive-scan video ensures that the picture remains smooth no matter how fast the onscreen action. This is an ideal HD format for sporting events.
In addition to the two most common types of HD Resolution is 1080p. This is an extremely rare format that is currently unused for broadcasting. It is only used in High Definition DVD Players and comparable video game systems.
DVD Resolution Chart
|
Type of Resolution
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Resolution in Pixels
|
Type of Video
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Current Sources
|
|
1080p
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1,920 x 1,080
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Progressive Scan
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Blu-Ray/HDDVD Players, Playstation 3
|
|
1080i
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1,920 x 1,080
|
Interlaced
|
Networks including CBS, NBC, PBS, DiscoveryHD and the
Xbox 360
|
|
720p
|
1,280 x 720
|
Progressive Scan
|
ABC, Fox, ESPN
|
Whatever your needs, you simply cannot do any better than high definition. The stunning clarity of the picture is totally unparalleled by any other format and is certain raise its user's profile immensely.
Transitioning to HD can sometimes be a painstaking process. It requires upgrading every piece of equipment in your production workflow to high definition. This means cameras, switchers, monitors and even things like cables need to be HD Compatible.
If you edit and share your programs digitally, you will need to make sure your software and codecs support High Definition. HD files are much larger than SD so a memory upgrade may be required as well.
While this may seem like a massive undertaking, the cost does not need to be prohibitive. TV Pro Gear's experts offer a variety of ways for you to minimize cost while maximizing quality. We offer all the services and products necessary for a
complete HD upgrade.