HDTV Buyers Guide

Ready or Not…

Time to buy that new Digital-HDTV … But are you ready?

The picture on your family's TV - the 27-inch set you bought more than ten years ago - is fading; and perhaps you've noticed how each visit to your optometrist results in a stronger prescription. You can't put it off any longer…

So, you're all set to buy that new TV. But hold on ... Don't rush out to the store just yet. 

Television has undergone an astounding transformation, and you may be surprised at what awaits you.

This Buyers Guide summarizes some distinct characteristics of ATSC-Digital TV, (DTV) including both SDTV and HDTV - that differ from traditional NTSC Analog TV. It will tell you what to look for - and what to look-out for - and help you identify those essentials to consider when you begin shopping.


Key Elements and Components

Integrated HDTV:

A Digital Television with an Internal High Definition TV Receiver. The price tag on these complete HDTV systems are generally significantly higher; however, if price is no object, they do offer convenience and one less component to deal with. Just plug it in, connect to a High Definition broadcast source, and enjoy HDTV!

But be aware that the Internal HDTV Receiver may not be compatible with your cable/satellite TV service; each Service provider has their own, proprietary Receiver that functions with their specific encoding process.

Note: Digital-HDTV technology is dynamic; it is changing at "light-speed" in a continuous evolution. For the consumer this means that today's HDTV may be obsolete in a matter of months. This is an important factor that buyers should include in making their decision. Having to replace an obsolete, external component (such as the HDTV Receiver) is preferable to replacing the complete, Integrated HDTV System.

What is: HDTV-Capable or HDTV-Ready?