16x9 Aspect Ratio
Analog & Digital Television Sets
In order for your analog television to display a digital signal, the signal must be converted down to analog. Even a converted digital signal is better than a regular analog signal. The picture quality and the signal reliability are improved; however, a converted digital signal on an analog television will not display true digital quality images and sound.
In order to view programming in true digital quality, a digital signal must be viewed on a digital television. Many new digital televisions are referred to as “wide-screen” and have a 16x9 aspect ratio (screen width to height), providing a movie-like experience at home. This is also enhanced by surround sound capabilities.
If you watch an analog signal (4x3 aspect ratio) on a 16x9 aspect ratio screen, a black box will appear on the top and bottom of the picture. This is called a “pillar box.” If you watch a digital signal (16x9 aspect ratio) on a 4x3 aspect ratio screen, a black box will appear on the left and right of the picture. This is called a “letterbox.” Pictures are displayed in these ways to make sure there is no distortion or missing parts due to conflicting signal formats.
If you own an analog television, you will not experience “letterboxing” after the digital transition because the digital signal will be converted down to analog by a digital converter box or cable or satellite service.
High-Definition Television Sets
HDTV (High Definition Television) provides the highest resolution and best quality picture and sound. In order to view programming in high-definition, you have to have an HDTV and receive high-definition service. HDTV has all the benefits of digital television, only the picture is even sharper and more detailed.
High-definition signals are now being broadcast by many stations and can be viewed with an over-the-air or rooftop antenna. If you are a cable or satellite customer, you can subscribe to high-definition service to watch television in the most advanced means available today.
