Panasonic TU-HDS20 - Manual (Page 7)

6
I
NFORMATION ON
D
IGITAL
T
ELEVISION
Information on Digital Television
Digital Television
HDTV (High Definition Television)
HDTV signal formats are 1080i (interlaced scan) and 720p (progressive scan). HDTV
provides the highest resolution picture and audio in either stereo or 5.1 channel
surround sound.
SDTV (Standard Definition Television)
SDTV signal formats are 480p and 480i. SDTV provides lower resolution, yet presents
a very sharp clear picture. Lower resolution allows broadcasters to transmit multiple
programs per channel.
Digital Broadcasting and Cable TV
The FCC has not mandated any standards for cable operators at the time this manual
is printed. Some cable companies have announced plans to introduce digital cable
boxes into their markets. They may choose, however, to use the digital capability to
increase the number of channels available or to provide data capability, such as high
speed modem rather than transmit HDTV programming. Contact your local cable
provider to determine if digital cable is available and whether a cable box is needed for
converting the signals.
Digital Audio
Dolby* Digital surround sound (also commonly referred to as AC-3* or DD 5.1) is the
audio standard. AC-3 will provide digital-quality sound. The system provides 3
separate audio channels for the front speakers (left, center, right), 2 channels for the
rear surround sound speakers, plus one channel for subwoofer sound. You will need
an external audio system capable of decoding the AC-3 encoded sound to get the full
surround sound effect. Otherwise, it can be connected directly to your TV or audio
system using only the stereo (left/right) audio outputs.
Note: The stereo audio outputs are Dolby Surround compatible. You can connect a Dolby
Surround Pro Logic* decoder (not included) to the stereo audio outputs and receive
surround sound.
*Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories. “Dolby“, “AC-3”, “Pro Logic” and the double-D
symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.