Are DTV and HDTV the Same?

Updated 4:17 PM EDT, Tue, Nov 11, 2008

Digital ready television sets for sale.
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Digital ready television set for sale. (Photo by Matt Cardy/Getty Images)

 

Is DTV the same as HDTV?

No.

DTV receives a digital signal and has a clearer picture quality than analog. HDTV also receives a digital signal, but the picture quality is High Definition and much better than analog or DTV.

 

What about programming? Is digital cable the same as HDTV?

And no.

“Digital cable” and high definition programming on cable are not the same. If you want to watch HDTV programming on cable, you will need to subscribe to your cable provider’s HDTV package and view the programming on an HDTV set.

You may also need a set-top box or other equipment to view HDTV programming. Check with your cable provider to find out what kinds of programming you can receive, and what equipment you need to receive it.

Comments (5)

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  • narkspud Thursday, Nov 13 at 7:07 PM FLAG COMMENT John - call Dish network and ask them. It's almost certainly their fault. Jan - How new is your TV? If it's very new, it probably has both an analog and a digital tuner in it, and you're watching the analog tuner (the one that will be no good in February). You'll need to read that manual to see what you're doing wrong. If you recently bought a TV without a digital tuner, some store owes you an apology, and probably some money.
  • Jan Wednesday, Nov 12 at 10:31 PM FLAG COMMENT I have a new HD tv and during the test I got the message that my tv was not ready. I receive my tv through antenna and thought the new tv would be sufficient. What else do I need to do?
  • John Wednesday, Nov 12 at 9:33 PM FLAG COMMENT During your test on Wednesday, I was able to view stations 2, 5, and 7 but not 9 and 11. I am using Dish Network. Any ideas?
  • narkspud Monday, Nov 3 at 1:33 AM FLAG COMMENT Bob - what gives is that your antenna is inadequate. Nearly all digital stations are already on the air full time. Make sure whatever antenna you use is capable of both VHF and UHF reception. Simple rabbit ears are VHF only and they won't cut it.
  • Bob Saturday, Nov 1 at 10:38 AM FLAG COMMENT I have been able to receive channel 2, 4 and 45 at different times, but no other digital channels. These channels are only on an occasional basis. What gives?

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