Frequently Asked Questions About Hdtv - Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300HD Connecting Manual

Frequently Asked Questions About HDTV

Are Local TV Stations Broadcasting in HDTV?
Many local TV stations are transmitting digital signals. However, transmitting a digital signal does not
mean transmitting an HDTV signal. Some stations are using the new bandwidth to broadcast several
standard-definition channels. Most stations however, once they begin broadcasting in digital, are offering
HD content from their parent network (for example, CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox, WB, UPN, and PBS).
Why Are Some HDTVs 4:3 Aspect Ratio and Others 16:9?
The aspect ratios differ because television manufacturers build both standard and wide-screen HDTVs to
appeal to consumer viewing preferences.
• On wide-screen HDTVs, the programming is displayed on the full screen.
• On standard-screen HDTVs, the programming is displayed in letterbox format in the middle of the
screen. (There are bars surrounding the picture.)
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