High Definition Television FAQs
- What is HDTV?
- What is multicasting?
- What is Digital Television (DTV)?
- Can I keep using the equipment I have now?
- What channels does KAMU broadcast DTV on?
Q: What is HDTV?
A: High-definition television (HDTV) is a new kind of television system that involves improvements in both the production and reception of television broadcasts. The most distinguishing features of HDTV are the aspect ratio and increased lines of resolution. HDTV's aspect ratio is 16:9 (Width:Height) as opposed to 4:3 of the current NTSC system. This will make the home theater atmosphere exactly as it was meant to be. Films will retain their original size and resolution, and the sound can be delivered in digital-quality 5-channel digital audio.
Q: What is multicasting?
A: When not transmitting in HDTV, broadcasters will be able to transmit four or more channels of standard definition television (SDTV) programming simultaneously. This is called multicasting. Although SDTV will not match HDTV in quality, it will offer a higher quality picture than we have today.
Q: What is Digital Television (DTV)?
A: The picture viewers currently receive is based on an analog transmission system that is more than 50 years old. In December 1996 the Federal Communications Commission approved the U.S. standard for a new era of television — digital television. In a digital system, images and sound are captured using the same digital code found in computers — ones and zeroes.
The digital revolution will not only dramatically improve the quality of the television picture, but also make possible the over-the-air delivery of several simultaneous services to viewers. This is due primarily to the three main benefits of the digital system: high definition television, multicasting in standard definition television and data transmission.
Q: Can I keep using the equipment I have now?
A: Only if you obtain a digital converter box. DTV information is encoded in a different way from the analog television signal and therefore will require a different kind of receiver. Manufacturers are developing converter boxes that will allow viewers to receive programs broadcast on DTV channels on their analog TV sets. However, in order to experience the full benefits of digital television, including HDTV, viewers will need new digital or HDTV television sets.
Q: What channels does KAMU broadcast DTV on?
A: KAMU broadcasts DTV on channels 12-1, 12-2, 12-3, and Cable 700 (in Bryan/College Station --- check your local listing for the HD cable channel in your area).
