One of the commendable features of a digital TV is that it can receive and display both ATSC (Advanced Television Systems Committee) Digital TV signals and NTSC (National Television Systems Committee) Analog TV signals. While shopping for HDTV, one might come across terms like HDTV-Capable and HDTV-Ready. Speaking in layman’s terms, a digital TV that is capable of displaying an HDTV quality image is a HDTV-Capable. However, it is not incorporated with HDTV receiver or tuner, hence, cannot catch a HDTV signal. Such a digital TV requires a separate HDTV receiver to be connected to the set. Do not be baffled, if the shopkeeper uses terms like Set-Top-Box (STB) or Decoder. They are the names given to HDTV receiver or tuner.
HDTV-Ready is generally used as a substitute of HDTV-Capable. However, one should be clear that HDTV-Ready does not always mean HDTV-Capable. Before installing an independent HDTV tuner, one should always check whether it is attuned to the HDTV set and to the cable or satellite system being used. Also, the independent HDTV tuner should be proficient in receiving Over-The-Air (OTA) television broadcasts.
Remember, “Digital ready" and "HDTV-ready" do not essentially mean that your TV will receive and exhibit digital HDTV programs. Before making the final purchase, always confirm that the HDTV set you have chosen shows real HDTV resolutions. There are some HDTV-Ready sets designed in such a way that they can receive HDTV signals, but cannot display pictures in HDTV Resolutions.
One should purchase a HDTV set that has the highest number of ports, rendering several connectivity options. We have different types of connectors and cables. Their mode of function is different and the type of parts used also varies in each of them. A HDTV set needs appropriate HDTV Cables and connectors.
The following are few examples:
In some sets, one may find some extra ports in the front or in the sides. It becomes handier to add connections with such ports.
One cannot have each and every connection available in the world in the HDTV set. One has to decide what connections one wishes to have, for example, Video Game, VCR, DVD, PVR/DVR/HD-DVR, PC, A/V Receiver, Set-Top-Box, and so on. The number of ports and their types are based on the decision regarding the connections. Also, the types of connections reflect how soon the HDTV set will get outdated. Hence, one should not decide in haste, but look out for all possibilities and then make the final nod.
Remember, one cannot have innumerable ports in a HDTV set.
It is also called Set-Top-Box or Decoder. This is a necessity for the functioning of a HDTV set. Without its installation, HDTV cannot receive the signals, which include satellite, cable, high definition digital-VHS recording, Over-The-Air broadcasts, and HD-DVD. The Set-Top-Box also displays DVD with progressive scan and HDTV-capable video games.
As mentioned earlier, one should always confirm whether the Set-Top-Box or HDTV receiver is compatible with the HDTV set.
Some set-top-boxes are meant exclusively for using with a particular cable or satellite service. One can also get a separate HDTV tuner for accepting OTA Broadcasts. One needs to contact the cable operator for transforming the cable Set-Top-Box to an HDTV Set-Top-Box.
There are other added features to look into before installing the HDTV set in the house. These features depend on a series of conditions, such as the mode of receiving the HDTV signals, the kind of display one wants, the type of components already installed, and others.
There are added components available with HDTV dealers. Sometimes they are a necessity, while at other times they may be an individual choice. For instance, a digital HDTV-Capable set needs a separate HDTV tuner; a few of the Plasma TVs do not have any audio components incorporated in them; a Front Projection TV set may not boast of an in-built decoder; and so on.
You need to do a little pondering over the connectivity options before leaving the shop with the sleek new HDTV set.
Be sure about the following things before tossing the credit card on the counter of the shop:
Although Surge protectors are crucial, beware of certain cheap devices that are supposed to be surge protectors but do not provide any protection. Also, do not think that expensive devices are always the best ones. Check the device before purchasing. This is the most sensible thing to do. Cost of any product does not reflect its true performance.
If one wishes the HDTV to receive Over-The-Air (OTA) Digital TV or HDTV Broadcasts, one has to set up a specific TV antenna. You should know how far the transmitters are located from your house. The type of antenna depends on this distance. If the source of transmission is nearby, then a simple set-top antenna, characterized with its rabbit-ear shape can work for you.
Do not fall in the trap of some people suggesting the setting up of HDTV-Capable antenna. There is no such thing. In order to accept HDTV signals, one only needs to arrange a superior UHF antenna, or in some places, maybe a VHF-UHF combined antenna.
Those who reside at the periphery of the broadcast range of local station, which is about 50 miles; they may need an antenna meant for the greatest reception. Such antenna may be expensive.
Amplifiers can remarkably enhance the reception. However, the opposite can happen too. An ill-assorted amplifier can worsen the reception. Besides this, trees, high-rise buildings, undulating topography, or the presence of some electronic waves can interfere with the reception. Moreover, a number of local stations transmit the digital HDTV signals at considerably reduced wavelengths. This becomes difficult for even the superior quality antenna to catch the signals from far away places.
An Antenna Rotor facilitates the exact positioning of the antenna. If there is more than one transmitting tower situated in various directions in the premises of your location, the use of an antenna rotor becomes even more important. If you want to shop for an Antenna Rotor, prefer the newly designed ones. They come with the benefit of a digital controller, which can be held in the hands. This one is a good buy.
Remember; buy only when you are sure of the product. If any doubt ruffles your mind, do not ignore it. Do not hesitate to inquire about the product. If you are not convinced with the information, check out some other shop. A fully aware customer will never regret his or her investment in the purchased product.
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