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With all the new technology and terms, we've included this page to answer the questions, "What does it really mean to me?", and "How will this effect my viewing?" The need-to-know buying guide for the average buyer.Best Buy: Consumers baffled by HDTVNo.1 electronics seller says 90% of consumers in survey are confused about high-definition televisions, while 50% underestimate cost of buying, installing them."There's a misconception that flat-panel means HD. No. You have to do something else. You have to upgrade to a HD service provider," Mike Mohan, vice president of home theater merchandising at Best Buy, told CNNMoney.com Monday. (9/25/07) http://money.cnn.com/2007/09/24/news/companies/bestbuy_hdtveducation
What Mike Mohan needs to know (and you, too!) is that an antenna could be all that you need to receive HD programming. I wouldn't really call your antenna an upgrade to a service provider, and in many cases, an antenna already exists in the home. Unfortunately, with the advent of pay TV, many homes have had their antenna lines "pirated" by lazy cable and satellite installers and few new home builders have realized the value of an attic antenna, or have the knowledge to correctly install one. Remember, when considering the purchase of an HDTV, you must also consider how you will receive your high definition programming. You can get HD programming in three ways: 1. FREE from your antenna - You must connect to your antenna and do a search for digital channels from the user menu on the TV. 2. Satellite - You must upgrade your satellite service to include HD programming. 3. Cable company - You must upgrade your cable subscription to include HD programming. Don't forget to budget for these things and the potential sound system, TV stand, cables, etc. First, don't be in a hurry to buy. But, If you think you are being left behind, you are not! This is all new technology, still changing and full of confusion! The longer you wait, the cheaper and easier it will be to implement this wonderful technology into your life! Buying Simple What size HDTV should I buy? Size Matters! The #1 consideration when buying needs to be size! What is aspect ratio? If you're purchasing a new HDTV, we suggest the 16:9 format as the best choice for now and future viewing. What are these numbers: 720, 1080? Either of these will produce a picture that is "WOW!" What's the "i" and "p"? For the average viewer, you won't notice the difference. If you are a big sports fan, get a 720p, or if you can afford it, get 1080p. ATSC, NTSC, and QAM - What are these? Get a TV with the ATSC (digital tuner) so you can get your local digital broadcasts including HDTV, FREE from your antenna. (It will come with the NTSC tuner, too.) What is HDMI? You should have at least one of these inputs on your HDTV. I think it would be hard to purchase one without HDMI inputs, at present. It corresponds to the digital HDMI cable and is normally the easiest and most trouble-free connection. Your HDTV will have also component connections. What about contrast ratio? When given a choice, choose a higher contrast ratio for the best picture. Contrast ratios range from 1:500 to 1:10,000 or more. What about refresh rate? When given a choice of refresh rate, choose the faster refresh rate. What is an HDTV Monitor or HD Ready TV? These are "HDTVs" that are lacking tuners. They are called "monitors" or "HD Ready". You may save a few bucks on the initial purchase, but you will be paying for satellite or cable to get High Definition. You won't be able to receive local digital broadcasts using just an antenna. So, for most viewers, don't buy a Monitor or HD Ready TV. Mounting Height and Viewing Angle Viewing angle is important, especially up or down from level. Ideally, flat panels are mounted at eye level. The further you vary from this, the more you risk picture compromise. Don't mount too high! Here are some common mistakes with mounting and placement. Some fireplaces If your fireplace design, mantle height, etc, forces you to mount too high, look for another location. Even with a mount that tilts, your picture and comfort will be greatly compromised. Some builder-fabricated recesses Some builders are adding in this neat little recess above the fireplace (often too small, and inadequately wired). I know of no good solution to this one unless someone wants to assist in developing the wall mount that is rolling around in my head. Most bedrooms Don't waste a lot of money on a bedroom TV if it is going to be beyond your maximum viewing distance! You wouldn't be able to see the detail of the screen anyway, so why spend a lot on that one? On the 'fridge My Dad did this one. He bought a 24" LCD flat screen to replace the 13" CRT (Regular old Tube TV) that was on the 'fridge. This was a surprise to me, though I was mounting his new 42" downstairs! He came downstairs to me and told me that he was having a problem with the HDTV upstairs. :-O He said it was dark and didn't look very good. He could hardly see it. I got a book and tipped it forward so that it pointed down toward him sitting at the table. He said, "OH, that's better!" Fortunately, his son was able to fish a wall and add a plate, so he could watch great HDTV even better than before - at eye level, within the optimum viewing range. #1 - Get the right size TV! What do I do once I've purchased my HDTV? Do's & Don'ts |
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You have a right to an antenna! The rule prohibits most
restrictions that: (1) unreasonably delay or prevent installation, maintenance
or use; (2) unreasonably increase the cost of installation, maintenance or use;
or (3) preclude reception of an acceptable quality signal. Over-the-Air Reception Devices Rule Send questions or comments about this web site.Copyright © 2009 WOWVision! Ministries Last modified: 01/16/10
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