What is HD?
High-Definition is a high-resolution digital broadcast format for programming. It is a 6x sharper picture than today’s standard-definition broadcasts, resulting in a more lifelike experience.
I think I already have high definition because I have an HD television.
HDTV is more than just a bigger TV. You need 3 things to get HDTV:
• HD television
• HD programming
• HD receiver
What does 16:9 aspect ratio mean?
Aspect ratio refers to the shape of the screen. 16:9 aspect ratio means the screen is shaped like a rectangle or “widescreen.” This shape is similar to a movie screen and means you can see more of the action than with a standard analog TV. Below is an illustration of 16:9 compared to the standard definition 4:3.
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33% More Screen! |
What do 480i, 480p, 720p and 1080i mean?
The numbers 480, 720, and 1080 represent the number of lines of resolution on the screen. More lines equal more detail available in the picture. P stands for progressive and i stands for interlaced.
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Interlaced Picture:
Every other line is scanned continually to create the picture |
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Progressive Picture:
Image all at once |
Both formats are considered HD; however, some believe progressive is the better of the two
What is the difference between SDTV, EDTV, and HDTV?
SDTV – This is Standard-Definition TV and typically produces better quality images than that of traditional analog broadcasts. It is usually 480i and is the most common resolution for DVD players and digital TV broadcasts.
EDTV – This is Enhanced-Definition TV with 480p lines of resolution and a better quality broadcast than SDTV but not as sharp as true HDTV.
HDTV – This is High-Definition TV with 720p, 1080i or 1080p lines of resolution, which is the highest quality broadcast From football to sitcoms, the result is a clear, crisp picture that brings every broadcast to life with more detail and truer color than any other picture format can offer.
The picture quality of high definition is amazing! But what about the sound quality?
HDTV is broadcast in Dolby® Digital Standard. Some programs will be broadcast in 2.0 (or more simply, stereo) and some programs will be broadcast in Dolby® Digital 5.1 Surround Sound. This creates an unequaled sound quality with 3 speakers in front of the viewer and two behind them (the 5) and one subwoofer to make the couch shake (the .1). This completes the movie theater experience at home.
Do I need any special equipment?
Your television may say “HD-ready,” but you’ll still need an HD receiver to access a full array of HD programming. DISH Network offers the most advanced state-of-the-art HD receivers (with or without Digital Video Recording) with the introduction of our ViP series.
Then what does “HD-ready” really mean?
“HD-ready” means that your TV has one or more built-in tuners to decode select HD content and create a higher resolution picture.
Will my VCR and DVD player work with my HDTV?
Yes, they will connect just like with any television. However, unless your DVD player is specially designed to play HD DVDs, the movies you watch will be shown in standard definition.
Why is dishHD different?
dishHD is America’s LARGEST HD programming lineup with over over 200 hours of high-definition programming each day! You’ll also get the most commercial-free programming, 24x7!
Everyone in the family likes to watch something different, but we all love HD!
With dishHD you’ll get a variety of programming for everyone—sports, movies, entertainment and news & variety.
And in some markets you can watch your local channels in high definition!
How much does dishHD cost?
dishHD starts at only $10.00/mo. with the purchase of qualifying programming.
1. What is a high -definition (HD) Over the Air antenna?
An HD Over the Air antenna allows you to receive television signals that are being transmitted digitally in your area by local television stations.
2. Where can I get an HD Over the Air antenna?
You can purchase an HD Over the Air antenna from DISH Network (available in select markets only). Your local DISH Network Retailer may offer a discounted HD Over the Air antenna for as low as $49.99, with free Standard Professional Installation for one antenna. Retailers can also advise you on the type of antenna you'll need based on your geographic location.
3. What should I know about where the professional installer will place the HD Over the Air antenna?
To improve signal levels, we will install the HD Over the Air antenna high on your home. It will have a better view of the transmitting station and get you better reception. A larger HD Over the Air antenna will be required if you live further away.
4. What channels can I expect to receive with an HD Over the Air antenna?
It depends on where you live. Channel availability varies greatly based on location, visibility and power level.
5. Are the local HD channels offered in ‘High Definition’ all the time?
Local Broadcast stations may legally choose to broadcast in various formats depending on the time of the day and the programming available. At this time, the FCC does not regulate the resolution of the digital picture they provide. Your local broadcaster’s website will display HD programming times.
6. Why do you need my address information?
Your address information is used to provide you with the most accurate antenna recommendation available; there are some areas where you may not be able to get any channels Over the Air, or only one or two. Your address is used, with the transmission tower information to give you the most accurate results we will be able to provide prior to the professional installation. When the installer is at your home, they will inform you of what channels the antenna is capable of viewing.
7. Do all HD Over the Air antennas pick up all TV stations?
No, which is why DISH Network supports several different types of antennas. The antenna that is right for you will depend on what programming you are trying to receive and should be discussed with you at the time of installation.
Customers who own an HD Over the Air antenna:
1. I can’t get a local HD channel I used to get through my HD Over the Air antenna – what happened?
First, determine whether you lost signal from all channels, or just one. If you lose all signals from your HD Over the Air antenna you may need an adjustment from either DISH Network or the Retailer who installed it.
If you lose the HD signal from only one channel, that particular station may be operating using a temporary license and therefore could have moved. Or, if the broadcast power level changed from VHF (very high frequency) or UHF (ultra-high frequency), a different antenna type may be required.
2. Does DISH Network service HD Over the Air antennas?
Yes. If the HD Over the Air antenna was purchased from DISH Network, we will provide service for the first 90 days at no additional cost (excluding any antenna changes at the initial installation). Please call DISH Network to speak to a customer service representative for further details.
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Overview