Back in the early days of television service, the system was analog only. Over time, digital signal entered the equation and both signals powered TV service to varying degrees. Now analog signal has left the picture completely. As such, TV has become fully digital. This is good news for TV watchers. The compressed nature of digital signal permits a broader expanse of data to pass through cable networks, spelling access to more stations, better audio, and enhanced picture reception like HDTV viewing. Digital also ushers in an era of greater reliability compared to analog. Much of this stems from the structure of its code: it’s a system of ones and zeros. Ultimately, it lets digital signal travel far distances without disruption. It also makes the signal nearly immune to effects caused by adverse weather events.

In the current era of all-digital television, two brands of digital signal exist: HDTV and SDTV. Both have ushered in a new standard of TV quality compared to analog, but the excellence offered by HD runs more extensive. Differences between the two mediums become notable as soon as you consider the matter of picture resolution. The quality of picture resolution is largely determined by the number of lines running across a TV screen. That number can reach 1080 on an HDTV, and 480 on SDTV. More picture lines also mean more pixels. Your HD set comes replete with a higher body of pixels than an SDTV set does. They also run in closer proximity to each other. This delivers two key accomplishments: richer color detail and a picture void of image distortion.

Another distinction between HDTVs and SDTVs is shape. SDTV screens run nearly square in dimension. This is the result of the 4:3 aspect ratio that defines SDTVs. Moreover, it means a diminished viewing spectrum compared to HDTVs. You may have noticed that HDTVs run wider than they do tall. Their aspect ratio equals 16:9, the same as the screens that appear in modern-day movie theaters. This holds special meaning for film buffs as they can now see movies in full view on their home theater set. Such a reality is not possible with SDTVs.

Few, if any, will argue the superiority of standard definition television. Some may avoid the purchase of an HD set because they fear a high cost. The high prices common to HD sets when they initially hit store shelves in 2002 have come way down. Some may also balk because HD service comes with an extra charge on top of your existing lineup of channels. That said, the cost of viewing channels in HD is not a steep one. The cost should not exceed $10 per month.