Here comes the next big thing in television technology – high definition TV, and I’m excited. The thought of getting crystal clear pictures on a big screen in my lounge is really quite attractive.
There have been some huge steps in TV technology in recent years. I’ve been basically ignoring my television since 1996 – too busy, nothing good to watch, etc. But last year I gave in to the kids and bought my first TV in about 16 years. Well, they’ve changed a bit. I remember the hubby and I, back in the early ’90s, were very excited about getting a 21” screen, and the thing was like a small freezer. It had to have its own corner unit.
By contrast, the 42”, flat, glossy black instrument I bought last year sits sleekly in my lounge. I mostly watch sport and movies, and it’s great getting such a huge picture. Make the slo-mo replays of catches in the cricket and tries in the rugby so much better.
High definition television is, of course, just digital TV with higher definition, or more lines. A HDTV will display a high definition signal in high definition. It won’t improve a standard definition signal, of course. I’m still a bit confused about what is a HDTV, and what HDTV-compatible means. I need to read up on the technology news to get the good oil. Hopefully, I won’t need to change my lovely, big, black TV any time soon, though.
If I do, though, I am concerned as to what will happen to it. Because mine is relatively new, I should be able to sell it off (at a bit of a loss, but oh well). But if you have an older set, there’s not much market, especially if it’s an old CRT. And there’s plenty of those still around because they basically don’t wear out. Good on Sony in the UK, who are offering a trade-in discount on your old TV if you buy one of their new Bravias. Hopefully they will dispose of the old telly thoughtfully. I must check out if Sony here in NZ does something similar.
Tags: HDTV, technology news