INFORMATION ON DIGITAL TELEVISION

Information on Digital Television

Digital Television

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 480i. 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 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.

Digital Audio

Dolby* Digital surround sound (also commonly referred to as AC-3* or DD 5.1) is the audio standard. AC-3 will provide digital-quality sound. The system provides 3 separate audio channels for the front speakers (left, center, right), 2 channels for the rear surround sound speakers, plus one channel for subwoofer sound. You will need an external audio system capable of decoding the AC-3 encoded sound to get the full surround sound effect. Otherwise, it can be connected directly to your TV or audio system using only the stereo (left/right) audio outputs.

Note: The stereo audio outputs are Dolby Surround compatible. You can connect a Dolby Surround Pro Logic* decoder (not included) to the stereo audio outputs and receive surround sound.

*Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. “Dolby“, “AC-3”, “Pro Logic” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

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Panasonic TU-HDS20 manual Information on Digital Television, Digital Broadcasting and Cable TV, Digital Audio