F A Q
Last updated: Feb. 2, 2005
Q: I have a HDTV so everything I watch is High Definition right?
A: Not necessarily. If your HDTV has a built in tuner all you need is an
antenna to receive over the air HD broadcasts. If your TV is just "HD Ready"
you need to have either a digital “set top box” for OTA broadcasts, a HD
satellite tuner and appropriate subscription, or HD cable and tuner.
Q: Do I need a special tuner for DTV/HDTV?
A: Yes. To receive OTA (over the air) digital broadcasts a digital tuner is
required. Also referred to as a “set top box”.
Q: Why are HDTV programs so wide?
A: Standard televisions use a 4:3 aspect ratio, which means the screens are
4 units wide by 3 units high. HDTV uses a wider 16:9 aspect ratio, closer
to that of theaters, which better takes advantage of the human field of vision.
Q: Do I need a “HDTV ready” antenna?
A: NO. That is mostly marketing hype. All you need in Columbus is a standard
UHF antenna.
Q: Do I put my antenna inside or on the roof?
A: This depends on your location. Some viewers can use simple “rabbit ears”
style antennas indoors, while others require larger, high gain outdoor antennas.
See our antenna guide for more details.
Q: I am watching DTV but it isn’t High Definition. What’s going on?
A: Not all DTV is high definition. Either the show is not offered in HD, the
station does not yet broadcast HD programs, or on occasion the station will
have switching issues. If you suspect switching issues, call the station.
Q: Should I use my TV’s speakers, or run the sound through a surround receiver?
A: This is totally up to you. To take advantage of digital audio you will
need to use a stereo receiver with digital inputs.
Q: How do I record my favorite HDTV programs?
A: In most cases it is still expensive to do this. DirecTV and Dish Network
offer HD PVR's for purchase. Knology also an offers an HD PVR for a monthly fee.
Also, there are PC accessories that allow you to record HD.
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