Digital TV Key Terms

Get up to speed with the wave of digital television
By Emily Lugg Beginning on June 12, 2009, all television stations in the U.S. will be required to institute the transition from an analog signal to a digital one. Along with the switch comes a new set of terms that encompasses everything from the signal itself to the new equipment you'll need to get up to speed. The digital wave allows television stations to produce more effective broadcasts as well as offer more programming options along with a clearer picture and sound quality.

Digital TV converter

A digital TV converter will allow analog televisions to receive a digital signal. The converter prevents analog users from having to purchase a new television and allows them to adapt their current television equipment to receive digital signals. Since the switch to digital television is mandatory, the government has issued coupons for consumers to use toward the purchase of a converter box.
Try:  The Federal Communications Commission offers information on digital TV converter boxes as well as resources to purchase a converter.

Analog signal

Analog is a thing of the past. All "new" so-called analog televisions, which require an antenna to receive a signal, are also equipped to receive a digital signal.
Try:  DTV Answers explains the differences between an analog signal and the updated digital television signal.

Digital compression, bit rate

Digital compression is the process in which you are sent digital quality pictures. The bit rate number can be adjusted to create an optimal broadcast depending on the type of show being transmitted.
Try:  HowStuffWorks details the specifics of digital compression and the corresponding bit rates.

High-definition (HDTV)

High-definition television refers to the television set and the television signal. First and foremost your television needs to be equipped to show a high-definition picture. In addition to the equipment, you also need to receive a high-definition signal from your cable company or satellite provider. A high-definition picture is sharper and clearer then a traditional analog picture.
Try:  KRCG-TV out of Missouri answers commonly asked questions about the switch to digital and high-definition signals.

700-MHz band

The 700-MHz bandwith is used for nationwide commercial and public safety broadcasts on TV channels 52 to 69. This designation came as a part of the switch to digital television. Commercial and public safety stations had to participate in an auction in order to get a spot on either the upper or lower 700-MHz band.
Try:  700-mhz elaborates on the details and requirements to broadcast on the bandwith.

Rear projection televisions

Digital rear projection televisions are more compact and wider then the old tube-type televisions. These televisions are equipped to receive digital and high-definition signals.
Try:  Crutchfield explains the pros and cons of the different types of big-screen digital projection televisions and compares them to LCD and plasma TVs.