What Is High Definition

Consumers shopping for new televisions ask "What is high definition?" frequently. The proliferation of high-definition labels on TV sets, satellite dishes and other packages makes an answer to this question necessary. There are several characteristics that help answer the question of what separates high definition from standard definition technology.

Answering the Question "What is High Definition?"

Electronics experts cite several characteristics of high-definition TVs and systems when answering this question. The list of factors below is required for consumers looking at HD TV and satellite systems:

• Aspect ratio
• Resolution
• Frames per second

The aspect ratio measures the length and width of a TV screen. A standard set has a 4:3 ratio while most digital sets use the 16:9 ratio. The wider frame of high-definition products simulates the cinematic experience.

Another way to define high definition is the level of resolution. The resolution on a HDTV is 1,920 x 1,080 pixels that indicates the number of pixels shown on the screen. The increased number of pixels is what helps create clearer pictures in HD televisions.

The frames per second indicates the number of full-screen shots generated during each second. The range of interlaced and progressive sets on the market today means that consumers can expect between 24 and 60 frames per second in new HDTVs.

All American Direct supplies information to consumers learning about what makes HD televisions different from older sets. The online store has equipment that enhances satellite HD and Dish Network packages with proper installation.