ABOUT HDTV
The receipt of an HDTV channel does not necessarily mean that you can enjoy all the quality that offers this technology. Some transmissions broadcast in HDTV native mode, so you may notice loss of quality, especially along the edges of images. This is because the transmission is broadcast in 4:3, compared with native 16:9 HDTV.
HDTV signals using an MPEG-2 compression. HDTV 1080i signal a need for a transmission of about 19.2 megabits per second. Some providers compresses the signal, lowering the transmission rate at 5-6 megabits. Obviously more compression, the image quality will be less.
Unfortunately, it is easy for consumers to determine the bit-rate, and then the actual picture quality. Indeed, when the sale is not often reported the display mode (1080i, 720p), so make sure to ask for this type of information.
You can record HDTV programs?
With a traditional television set, you can record programs using a VCR or a Digital Video Recorder (Tivo, All-in-Wonder). With HDTV this situation changes. FCC ruled that manufacturers can include in their instruction programs that do not allow equipment to record HDTV.
With HDTV cards for PCs but you can record programs, because they ignore the signals that do not allow the director. This will be possible until July 2005. Subsequently, also in the cards, by law, will be deployed anti-recording devices.
Use the HDTV is not difficult, provided that you follow the instructions. You will need just a TV, a tuner and antenna, or alternately a cable or satellite.
The quality of video and sound is definitely better, but only programs broadcast in HDTV format native will enjoy. HDTV is a technology very interesting, but unfortunately for now it is still very present in Italy, affordable but not cheap.
