Learn about TV definition including standard definition vs high definition television. You may hear a lot of jargon when talking about television picture. This article will help you understand what the different terms mean.
Standard Definition (SD) vs High Definition (HD)
Standard Definition (SD) television is broadcast at 720x480 resolution, which represents the number of lines in an image on your television. The more lines, the greater the definition and clarity of the picture. Standard definition can also be referred to as 480i or 480p.
High Definition (HD) picture can be broadcast in either what's referred to as 720i / 720p (1280x720) resolution or 1080i/1080p (1920x1080) resolution. 1080 will offer you a higher resolution picture than 720, but both are considered to be HD.
We offer a wide range of TV equipment which will either support standard definition alone or both standard and high definition picture. More information on TV equipment can be found here: TV- Equipment.
To learn more about cables and how they affect your television signal, visit Glossary of Cables and Connections
Interlaced vs. Progressive Scan
When you hear 1080p and 1080i, you might not immediately understand the difference. The "p" and "i" stand for progressive and interlaced, and it refers to the way in which the picture appears on your television.
The interlaced image is comprised of two halves of the same image which appear in rapid succession, whereas with progressive imaging, pixels are refreshed in order, or simultaneously. This happens so fast that the human eye can't tell the difference, however in fast-moving images such as scenes featuring fast vehicles, sports, or fighting sequences, interlaced images can appear blurry.
When watching content with fast-paced action, it may be better to watch something in 720p definition (the "p" stands for progressive) over 1080i (the "i" stands for interlaced), even though 1080 is technically higher definition than 720.
MPEG-2 and MPEG-4
MPEG4 is a relatively new way of displaying high definition picture and is not compatible with all models of Digital Cable Boxes provided by Rogers. If you are using an MPEG2 compatible box and attempt to access an MPEG4 channel, you may be able to hear the audio but the screen will be black or present an unauthorized message.
Much like computers and smartphones, cable system technology will be periodically improved so that you can receive the best viewing experience possible. Previous changes include the transition from analog to digital, as well as standard definition to high definition picture. 4K and 8K (ultra high definition) technology are also becoming available.
You can learn more about MPEG-4 compatibility at Guide to MPEG4 Channels and Digital Cable Boxes
Ignite TV is also MPEG-4 compatible.