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Satellite vs. Cable vs. Antenna for High Definition
by
Tom Heafner
HDTV (alternatively known called high definition television) has been making quite a splash of late. Its modern, its sleek, and its high quality. You can see everything in perfect clarity. Its really of the future. However, how you actually get your HDTV fix is something of a quandary. For most people, its complicated; youll hear those who swear by satellite, while others love their cable. Or you could go with the old rabbit ears, and buy an economical HD antenna. And then there are new technologies to throw into the mix such as fiber based services. Its rather confusing, especially if youre not a gearhead who knows all the ins and outs of each technology.
Lets start off with the antenna, aka terrestrial HDTV. Antennas are probably your cheapest option for getting a high definition signal. Many local networks broadcast a high def signal which are free to viewers; most newer HDTV sets include ATSC tuners which can pick up HD broadcasts and lower res digital broadcasts over the air. However, with an antenna, the programming you can receive is limited. While all of the major networks offer many of their shows in high def, news, daytime and reality programming are still broadcast with standard definition.
Cable and fiber optic are both quite popular delivery methods. They also work much in the same way the only difference being that fiber optic is delivered by your phone company, while cable is provided by your cable company. To watch high definition programs via cable you will need a set top box; some companies offer it for free, while others charge a modest per month rental fee. You may also be charged extra for specialty HD networks such as HDNet and MOJO, while the major broadcast networks are delivered at no cost.
Programming is much more expansive than whatd you get with an antenna, as cable companies usually include the HD versions of regional sports networks along with the major broadcast networks. However, programming is up to your cable provider and they may not always offer HDTV versions of your favorite channels. Cable can be somewhat pricey too, as the local operating costs arent always cheap.
Satellite is often cheaper than cable for receiving high definition TV. However, it has had its fair share of complications. Not until just recently, the only way to get local HD (users can get national programming without any trouble) via satellite was to purchase an over the air antenna add on. Today MPEG-4 video compression technology allows you to get twice as much HD as before, local networks included. Of course the trade off is that older receivers and set top boxes simply dont work with MPEG-4 which means consumers will need to purchase upgrades to take advantage of the new technology. Then, theres also the potential for signal disruption in bad weather. Also, regional sports networks often arent offered via satellite, whereas cable provides RSNs as part of local programming.
Pricing varies depending on what service provider you go with. Depending on your needs, you should study all your options before deciding on one HD delivery method.
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Satellite vs. Cable vs. Antenna for High Definition}