HDTV Q&A with Screen Sleuth

Every once in a while, we’ll answer basic HDTV and related questions in detail here on the site. Below is one such question that was posed elsewhere on another site, and i’ve heard the question many times myself:

Q: Since the analog sets are 4:3 aspect ratio and the HD signal is 16:9, something will change. Will the converted HD signal provided by Time Warner (or other provider) fill the width of the analog screen with black space at the top and bottom to give the HD aspect ratio? Or will the converted HD signal fill the height of the screen with the extra HD width discarded?

The aspect ratio of shows will not change at all. Some shows are shot and created in widescreen (16:9), while some are still more normal and square (commonly known as 4:3 ratio). An HDTV signal will not change the way a show was created.

Also, the conversion to digital will not mean all shows will be broadcast in high definition (HD) by default. A show must shot in HD to be capable of being viewed in HD on a TV. All over-the-air channels will be digitally broadcast over the air, which will make shows more capable of better picture and sound. The cable service itself won’t change.

HD shows (ones shot in HD) are traditionally widescreen, and will be broadcast in 16:9 ratio. Shows that aren’t will be broadcast as before (with possible minor quality improvements because of the digital broadcasting).

We’re always glad to be here to clear up the common misconceptions of HD for our readers.