| Abstract | According to the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005, broadcasters across the United States must complete their switch from analog to digital video in 2009, rendering millions of television sets obsolete. Viewers will be required to purchase converter boxes in order to view the new high-definition (HD) signals. In addition to these behind-the-scenes changes to transmission standards, consumers will notice major differences on their television screens. The aspect ratio of the televised image will change from 4:3, the shape of a normal television, to 16:9, which looks more like a movie screen. Moreover, the resolution will improve dramatically from what was effectively 512 x 400 pixels (Brain 2001) to 1920 x 1080 pixels (Beaver Installations 2007). This means that even if you purchase a converter for your old television, the television still won't display the new HD signals very well. |
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