HDTV - High Definition Television

You hear many people talking about HDTV, and what a fantastic improvement it provides for the home entertainment experience. But what exactly is HDTV, and why is it better?

What is HDTV?

HDTV (High Definition Television) provides a much greater and more detailed picture quality, improved clarity and vibrant colours. But it's not only about picture quality, as many HDTV programmes are broadcast with the benefit of Doly Digital Surround Sound - so you can really get involved in the action!

How Does HDTV Work?

It's all about pixels!

High definition televisions have a much higher resolution compared to their non HD counterparts. By having higher resolutions, the HDTV will have a greater amount of pixels per square inch, giving clearer pictures with upto four times more detail (see the image below).

To do this, the HD televisions have more horizontal lines on the screen, typically 720 lines, however for true HD, some teleivisons have 1080 lines (look for a television advertised with 1080p). In comparison, a traditional television only has 576 horizontal lines.

How do I get HDTV?

HDTV is fast becoming more readily available throughout the United Kingdom. High Definition televisions have been available for several years, and now there are several options available to receive the high definition broadcasts:-

• Freesat HD
  Launched in spring 2008, the service offered by both the BBC and ITV has rapidly become a real contender to the other services available, namely Freeview & Sky. The Freesat services provides approximately 140 digital channels, with several of these available in High Definition free of any charge or monthly subscription. Although the service is still relatively in it's infancy, more channels are to be added throughout 2009, and a greater HD lineup will emerge. Freesat have also recently launched Freesat+, which essentially is a Freesat HD satellite receiver, with a built in digital recorder, so you can record your favourite programmes direct to your satellite receiver, without the need for tapes or DVD's. You can also pause, rewind and play live TV!
  
• Sky HD
  Currently the largest broadcaster of high definition television and programming, Sky HD provides a superb variety of channels and a good selection of HD movies. Although, unlike the service on offer from either the Freesat or Freeview systems, Sky HD does require a monthly subscription in order to view the HD channels that are available. Sky HD is a Sky+ satellite receiver with high definition technology, so like the Freesat+ system, you can pause, rewind and play live TV, record your favourite shows direct to you satellite receiver, and record an entire series at the touch of a button.
  
• Freeview HD
  Although not currently available, the HD service offered by Freeview should be launched by the final quarter of 2009, and HD content should be delivered direct through your aerial installation. Although not much is known about this service currently, it is presumed, alongside their current business model and free channels ethic, the HD service offered by Freeview will be free. Freeview do currently also offer a Freeview+ service, like the Sky+ and Freesat+, allowing you to record your programmes direct to your receiver. Although no HD receivers are available for Freeview, it is expected that the HD Freeview receiver will also incorporate the recording facilities also.
  
  

What will I need for HDTV?

To benefit from the HD programming available on either of the services listed above, you will require a HD ready LCD or Plasma television, together with a HD receiver. Without both of these installed and configured to work correctly, you will not benefit from the HD signal.

However, if you opt for the Sky HD service, you will also need to arrange a suitable HD subscription with Sky TV, in order to view the HD channels available on the service.

To discuss HDTV in further detail, or should you wish to discuss the options available to you (Digital TV from either Freeview, Sky or Freesat), then please do not hesitate to contact our sales team on 0800 0224420.