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 1/60th 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 1/30th 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.
