Bookmark

HDTV Buying Guide

Input and output sockets

Perhaps the single most confusing item on a TV spec sheet is the forest of input and output sockets used to hook up the set to other equipment. The newer types provide lossless digital interface, while their analog counterparts' performance can vary from one end of the quality spectrum to the other.

Another consideration for proper HD playback is High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection compliancy. Implemented as an anti-piracy mechanic, the system prevents unsolicited video recording on digital video outputs. For a trouble-free viewing experience, do ensure that your HDTV's HDMI and DVI inputs are HDCP-ready.

The following trail of breadcrumbs, arranged in order of video quality, should help put you on the right connectivity path.

Jack	Cable	Name	Typical use	Level of video quality
		RF A.k.a. radio frequency; antenna; cable; screw type; F-pin	Antennae, VCRs, cable and satellite boxes	Lowest
		Composite video A.k.a. yellow video; video; A/V (when combined with audio jacks)	Cable and satellite boxes, VCRs, DVD players, game consoles	Low
		S-Video A.k.a. DIN 4	Cable and satellite boxes, S-VHS VCRs, DVD players, game consoles	Medium
		Interlaced component A.k.a. component; Y, Pb, Pr; Y, Cb, Cr; 480i	Standard DVD players	High
		Progressive component A.k.a. component; Y, Pb, Pr; Y, Cb, Cr; 480p	Progressive-scan DVD players, 480p digital television (EDTV)	Very high
		RGB Connections can also be made through RCA or BNC-type connectors, and adapters are available between all of them A.k.a. VGA; 15-pin D-sub; RGB-HV	Computers, some HDTV receivers, video processors and projectors	Very high
		HDMI A.k.a. High-Definition Multimedia Interface	HDTV receivers and DVD players	Highest (digital)

Here's a quick note about switching: If you have multiple sources going into your TV, an A/V receiver with switching capabilities can really ease the hassle. The most convenient option is to leave your TV set to one input and have the receiver switch all other sources into that input.

Many receivers have a feature called video upconversion, which often allows them to send every source, whether it's composite, S-video, component-video or HDMI, through the HDMI output. If you have a lot of gear, they can make switching between sources much more convenient.

Judging picture quality »