Advancements in technologies currently provide new ways of broadcasting signals. High-definition and digital televisions have captured the attentions of many consumers. Learn about the different types of signal broadcasting and what are required with each, so you are able to make an informed decision.
HDTV
HDTV stands for high-definition television. A true HDTV includes a built-in NTSC tuner, ATSC tuner, 16:9 aspect ratio and the ability to display at least 720-line resolution images. High-definition television delivers true-to-life images, taking your entertainment experience up a notch. What differentiates a HDTV from a HD-ready TV is having the ATSC tuner already built in. HD-ready TVs have a NTSC tuner, but require connection to an additional ATSC tuner. It is common to see a TV described as being a HDTV, but it may be only HD-ready because the ATSC tuner is not built in. Confirm the status of the ATSC tuner before purchasing a HDTV.
HDTVs allow you to receive over-the-air high-definition and standard broadcasts without an additional set-top box (HD-capable antenna required)
HD-ready TVs are fully capable of a high-definition display when connected to an optional HDTV source, such as an ATSC tuner
EDTV
EDTV stands for enhanced digital television. A true EDTV includes a built-in NTSC tuner and an ATSC tuner. ED-ready TVs include the NTSC tuner, but not the ATSC tuner. In order to receive enhanced digital television with an ED-ready TV, you must connect it to an additional ATSC tuner. EDTVs can accept 480p signals from video sources, such as progressive-scan DVD players, making them ideal for movie lovers. The picture quality of an EDTV is superior to that of a CRT/tube TV, but not as jaw-dropping as HDTV.
EDTVs allow you to receive over-the-air digital broadcasts without an additional set-top box (compatible antenna required)
ED-ready TVs are fully capable of receiving over-the-air enhanced digital broadcasts when connected to a separate ATSC tuner
SDTV
SDTV stands for standard definition television. SDTVs are digital televisions that can receive over-the-air signals. The picture display is roughly comparable to analog video pictures in terms of quality, though digital signals create a better view because there are no ghosts, fuzzy reception or irregular coloration. SDTVs contain a picture resolution of 480 or 480i lines.
SDTVs are digital televisions that allow you to receive over-the-air signals for a picture display that's a step up from traditional analog TVs
