HDTV-VOOM: Frequently Asked Questions About Satellite HDTV from VOOM

HDTV VOOM Frequently Asked Questions

What is HDTV?

HDTV, or High Definition Television, is a new set of standards for television and the quality in which we will watch it. It is the only change that has been made to the television format since we switched from watching black and white to watching color television many, many years ago.

High-definition television (HDTV) is a new kind of television system that involves improvements in both the production and reception of television broadcasts. The most distinguishing features of HDTV are the aspect ratio and increased lines of resolution. HDTV's aspect ratio is 16:9 (Width:Height) as opposed to 4:3 of the current NTSC system. This will make the home theater atmosphere exactly as it was meant to be. Films will retain their original size and resolution, and the sound can be delivered in "digital-quality" 5-channel digital audio.

Why is the aspect ratio important to customers?

HDTV's display high resolution 720p in the progressive scan format, and 1080i in the interlace format.  Widescreen televisions employ a 16:9 aspect ratio and obviously display a wider screen that looks like the screen in a movie theatre.  Similar HDTV viewing can be accomplished on a 4:3 aspect ratio TV by Letterboxing. This is the method of eliminating a portion of the top and bottom of the screen.  The audio signal is digitally processed and is comparable to CD quality.  Your current NTSC television only has standard Stereo sound.  The digital audio surround sound that the HDTV outputs, truly sounds like you are in a movie theatre. 

What is the difference in DTV and HDTV?

DTV stands for Digital Television and is a set of eighteen different standards for transmitting television signals. All DTV standards are sent in a digital format instead of the older analog format and offer many benefits over standard televison. DTV encapsulates the two standards for broadcasting HDTV, which are 720p and 1080i.

How Can I Get High Definition Signals at My Home?

Satellite: Almost anyone can receive HDTV via a satellite company and all satellite companies currently carry high definition channels. You will need to get a special HD decoder from the satellite company to watch these signals and you usually will have to pay a small price increase for this service as well.

What high-definition programming does VOOM offer?

Over 39 HDTV channels, with your favorite premium channels like you've never seen or heard them before. New HDTV channels are being added monthly. 21 (and growing) commercial-free Voom exclusive HDTV channels you won't find anywhere else. And you get a full selection of the cable channels you love - over 120 channels in all. The best viewing experience imaginable with at least 10 HDTV movies playing 24/7. The height of home entertainment is VOOM.

Why Should I Buy Widescreen?

A widescreen or 16x9 TV display lets you create the theatre experience in your home. Because it is one-third wider than ordinary television screens, you'll be able to view movies the way they were filmed and the way the director intends them to be seen. When watching sporting events, you'll see all the action - the entire field, rink, court or racetrack.

What is there to watch in HDTV?

There is plenty of programming now available in HDTV. CBS and ABC are delivering most of their primetime lineups, and NBC broadcasts 10 primetime shows in HDTV each week. PBS, WB and UPN have also made the commitment and broadcast select shows in HDTV. Discovery HD, HDNET, Showtime and HBO are all delivering HDTV programming 24 hours a day and ESPN plans to broadcast 100 games this year. Regional sports networks such as Fox Sports Network New York (FSNY) and the Madison Square Garden Network (MSG) are also broadcasting in HDTV. (Note: RCA and RCA Scenium models with built-in Gemstar TV Guide lists daily all shows being broadcast in HDTV).

Major events that are broadcast in HDTV include the Academy Awards, the NCAA Men's Final Four, The Masters, the Stanley Cup Finals and the Super Bowl. Plus, Monday Night Football will air in HDTV this fall.

How Much Will It Cost to Buy an HDTV?

If you buy a widescreen RCA Scenium integrated HDTV Set, prices range from $2,999 (52" Diagonal) to $3,999 (65" Diagonal). An HDTV Monitor is less expensive, with widescreen RCA Scenium monitors ranging from $1,800 to $2,500. However, you must purchase a separate HDTV set-top receiver in order to display HDTV signals on your HD Monitor.

Can I Use My VCR, DVD Player or PVR?

Yes, your VCR and Personal Video Recorder will work when receiving the analog signal, however, they will not record in HDTV. You must remember that the TV can only output the best picture that the recording device will allow, and a standard VCR picture will not look as good as an HDTV image. However, you will get the best possible picture that your DVD player is capable of providing when connected to an HDTV Monitor or Set.

What's all the Buzz about Flat Panel Displays?

Both LCD and Plasma flat panel displays provide a great picture in a thin package, and many consumers are excited at the prospect of hanging their HDTV on the wall. Plasma TVs measure as thin as three inches and are available in larger screen sizes - 40" and up. LCD TVs usually come in smaller screen sizes, but some manufacturers have announced plans to build large-screen displays up to 50 inches (diagonal). At this time, however, true HDTV flat-panel displays are among the most costly HDTVs on the market.

Is Digital Cable the Same as HDTV?

No it is not. However, many cable systems are now starting to deliver HDTV as an HD cable signal, and you can expect more of this in the future.

Is it True That in the Future Analog TV Signals Will Be Turned Off?

Yes, it has been mandated that analog TV signals will cease to be transmitted as early as 2006, but it is possible that date will be extended. Even after that date, however, you will be able to purchase a special tuning device that will allow you to view HDTV programming on your analog set. What you must remember is that you will not receive HDTV quality picture and sound even with the new tuning device.