Keep in mind that more programming designed for digital, is being produced for a 16×9 screen. So while a converter will give you the ability to receive the new digital signals, you will either be forced to view in a letterbox format, or in the current 4×3 standard, with the left and right sides cropped.
Purchasing a New TV: Virtually all flat-panel TVs being marketed today, have both an analog and digital (ATSC) tuner built-in. These sets are able to use either system without the need for a converter. If in the market for a new TV, be sure that your new set has the digital tuner built-in. Even small handheld TVs with ATSC tuners are in production, but some of the older models still remain on store shelves. FCC regulations require that any device with only an analog tuner, be displayed with a consumer disclosure advising the customer of this fact. Fines are $8000 per individual violation…so retailers are pretty diligent about disclosing this information. This rule applies to all devices with an analog tuner–not just TVs. VCR’s, DVR/TiVo units, DVD Recorders, etc., all fall under this rule. But as always, buyer beware. Read the features carefully.
Also keep in mind that some newer (and often lower-priced) sets are purely monitors, with no tuner of any kind. These sets will need a tuner box for both analog and digital reception. Check those specs carefully.
It’s not all “High-Definition:” Remember that not all programs on digital TV are Hi-Def. Programs recorded in 480 (virtually everything in the last 50-plus years), will still be shown in 480, and up-converted to a digital channel, which (depending on broadcaster’s choice) is either running at 720 or 1080 lines. Most sporting events and prime-time programs are currently in HD, and some local and national news studios are slowly being converted. So the old 80’s line, “In stereo where available” applies here…almost.
Types of TV: Briefly, there are three display technologies in production now, all flat-panel: LCD, plasma, and DLP. LCD is usually the most economical, and is capable of up to 1080i (interlaced) resolution. Many sets by the better manufacturers have high-quality sharpness, and rival the plasma sets. The second-tier manufacturers give you HD performance, but lack the color depth or sharpness…but they’re inexpensive.
Plasma sets were among the first HD models, and have also come down in price from the five-figures in the early days. They are slightly thinner, and will support the better-quality 1080p (progressive) resolution. Early models did not perform well in higher altitudes, due to the reduced atmospheric pressure. It’s uncertain if that’s since been fixed.
DLP sets are mirror-based, very thin, and can handle 1080p. They tend to generate a large amount of heat, however. Many models are fan-cooled. Owners of these sets tend to buy battery-backup (UPS) systems for them, so that the TV can continue to cool in the event of a power failure, reducing the risk of damage.
Armed with all of this information, you can now consider yourself ready for the big switch in 2009, when the last analog transmitter goes dark.
