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HDTV Questions & Answers
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What is High Definition Television (HDTV)? |
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High Definition Television (HDTV) is the new standard in technology that will noticeably change the way we watch television. For starters, the HDTV 16/9 width to height ratio is much wider than that of the standard television system's 4/3 ratio, giving the viewer a 1/3 wider screen closely resembling the wide screen image seen in a movie theater.
Not only is the picture wider with HDTV, it is much sharper and clearer than standard television. Composed of 1080 active lines, the HDTV picture contains 5 times more information than does the standard television picture, which uses 486 active lines. In addition, the color resolution for HDTV is more than twice that of the standard television system.
And finally, unlike the standard television system's 2-channel stereo sound, HDTV offers CD quality 5.1 channel surround sound (left, right, center, left rear, right rear, and low frequency effects).
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What equipment is needed to receive High Definition programming? |
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You will need a HDTV capable set, plus our special digital converter with an integrated HDTV tuner and a subscription to Blue Ridge Digital Basic.
When you subscribe to HDTV service on Blue Ridge Digital Cable, you will receive a digital/HDTV settop box. This new settop is designed to meet growing consumer demand for high definition television (HD). It functions as a network computer capable of presenting programming at HD resolutions through the component outputs. The settop not only tunes analog channels, but also is capable of decoding all 18 ATSC high-definition formats. It also up converts all content to 1080i to present out the analog component outputs. This allows the subscriber to watch any channel without having to switch between inputs on the TV.
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Will High Definition Television make my existing television set obsolete? |
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No. If you have a standard television set, you will still receive all of your current channels. However, your standard TV set will not be able to receive high definition television signals. Even with the Explorer 3100HD digital set-top, your standard television will not produce true high definition sound and picture quality. For that, you will need a HDTV capable set.
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How much will a new HDTV set cost? |
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There are a variety of HDTV sets available on the market with prices varying depending on styles and features. We suggest that you consult your local consumer electronics dealers, view your options and research the different makes and models before choosing the set which is right for you.
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When will more High Definition programming become available? |
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Right now, several networks are offering high definition programming. As the networks move to increase the amount of high definition programming they currently offer, more high definition programming may become available on Blue Ridge Digital Cable.
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Can I record HD channels? |
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Yes. We offer a DVR settop with an integrated HD tuner which will allow you to record HD programming in high definition format.
If you are recording VHS or DVD, HD quality will not be represented since they aren't formatted the same. There are specific HD DVD recorders on the market, which would be necessary to have HD quality. |
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