What is Direct HD: 720p vs. 1080i Format

Eventually, all television channels will be high-def. Hi-def is the universal choice for greater clarity because of increased pixel count.

The highest resolution high definition television offers about double the pixels of a regular analog TV. Selecting one of the outstanding Direct TV packages available right now get you 130 HD channels and more in the offing.

Pixel ratios for standard definition television receiver is 480 scanning lines (704 x 480) stacked top to bottom. The resolution of a fixed-pixel display is defined by the total number of horizontal pixels across each scanning line. Here we have 704 pixels for each scanning line.

In order to take full advantage of HDTV’s ability for clarity and detail you need more pixels. LCD, plasma, or DLP devices need to have the capability to display those extra pixels. Progressive format 1080i is fast becoming the common format in broadcasting.

There are 2 types of scan. Interlaced and progressive scan. High-definition video mode, known as 720p, the p would stand for progressive scan. 1080i is the shorthand name of a format for interlaced scan.

1080i ((1920 x 1080)) has more lines and pixels than 720p (1,280 x 720 pixels), but 720p is a progressive-scan format that should deliver a smoother more viewable image that stays sharper during motion.

Today’s high-def broadcasts are done in either 1080i or 720p. Most 1080p HDTVs are capable of displaying every pixel of the highest-resolution high-def broadcasts. With 720p you get much smoother motion and better for viewing sports.

The nice part of high-def is that you can capture the video for later viewing. Direct TV satellite offers a free high-def video recorder with their HD package. It lets you record your favorite programs when you’re not at home for later replay. The HD DVR has 200 hrs of standard definition and for high definition you get 50 hrs of recordings. Plus you get to listen to amazing theater-like sound with Dolby Digital 5.1 technology.