HDTV – It’s All in the Eye

If you still haven’t made the leap in to HDTV yet, you are not alone. Many consumers are still holding back because of confusion about the terminology surrounding the technology. The industry is trying to find ways to make the terminology easier to navigate.

One of the biggest questions most people have about HDTV is just what do the “i” and “p” stand for? The “i” stands for interlaced. It means the picture is shown in sequences – supposedly too fast for the eye to discern. The “p” stands for progressive scan. This means the picture is shown all at once.

For many purists, the 1080i HDTV set is the only way you should ever consider viewing any fast moving action – like sports. They say it gives a more crisp and clean picture than the other models.

Others say that the average eye will not be able to tell the difference between 720p and 1080i.

If the experts are really truthful, they will admit that beauty is in the eye of the beholder – especially when it comes to HDTV. The best way to find your perfect set is to go down to the local electronics store and view them. It may surprise you how the pictures differ from model to model and brand to brand – or how little they don’t.

Negotiating the HDTV seas does not have to be overwhelming. A little knowledge can take you a long way. More importantly, trusting your own sight will get be more likely to get you to the right place at the right price.