Is a 1080p LCD HDTV in Your Future?

HDTV is high definition TV. It provides what is currently the highest resolution image. It produces exceptional detail and color as compared to standard displays.

HDTV is one form of digital television. An HDTV is not required in order to view digital television signals. However, a digital tuner is required and an HDTV is one option for those seeking a TV with a digital tuner. HDTV is just the best image quality currently offered.

HDTV can display images at 480i, 480p, 720i, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p. What does all of that mean? Read further.

When you see the term 1080p it's merely indicating the number of lines present in the display and how they are being displayed.

Obviously more lines produces a better, sharper picture. Thus 1080 is better than 720, and 720 is better than 480.

The "p" stands for progressive scan versus "i" for interlaced. Progressive scan tends to produce a higher quality, smoother image. Thus 1080p is considered superior to 1080i.

Of course a 1080p LCD HDTV generally costs more than one with 720p. For some people the difference between the two is so minimal to the naked eye that they choose to buy the 720p set. It's an individual choice.

Certainly there are plasma and other types of televisions which offer 1080p HDTV sets. Why would a 1080p LCD HDTV be preferred?

Again it's a personal choice, but a LCD TV tends to put out less heat than plasma and consumes less energy in general. Thus, the long term costs for a LCD is less than for a current plasma screen. In addition, although a plasma TV looks great in a low light environment, a 1080p LCD HDTV generally displays a better image in an environment with more ambient light.

If you want true high definition viewing, you'll need a few things.

An HDTV with an HD tuner

A high definition broadcast signal; including an HD receiver if you have HD cable or satellite service.

HDMI inputs to get high definition video and audio from peripheral devices such as a DVD player. DVI inputs can provide HD video.

As a side note, for the highest quality display a TFT LCD is preferrable when choosing your 1080p LCD HDTV.